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Written by Our People...For Our People....est. 20107

Issue 3- Volume : 12

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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February 1st-2025

Servicing the Almaguin & Parry Sound Districts

Community Spirit

Trout Creek Community Centre enters Kraft Hockeyville Contest Deborah Bussey The last five years have been very taxing on our communities....no pun intended, well maybe a little.

We have gone through a lot in the grand scheme of things whether globally, nationally or in our small rural communities.

We’ve seen our towns bounce back after the highway bypasses only to wither once again due to pandemic scare tactics that had most huddling at home rather than living life as we once did.

We saw a drop in tourism which provided the main source of income for many in our area. This affected some more than others depending on whether you bought into the hysteria. Many here in God’s Country have lived off the land or at the very least their ancestors did and the knowledge was passed down making life a wee bit more bearable for those who planted gardens and knew how to preserve their bounty. There is no shortage of sharing in our communities either!

Whether it’s knowledge or physically lending a hand I am proud to say our communities step up to the plate when it’s needed.

For many, the gathering places are where we create those bonds.

Nooooo, I’m not talking about the hotels...although. Lol No, I’m referring to our community

centres. These are buildings that were built by the community and not just by tax dollars! Skilled hands of our men and women, knowledge handed down by their ancestors and a lot of spirit went into these buildings not to mention the donations whether time, materials, monetary or sustenance to keep those people working! Many are still standing today which is a testament to the quality and workmanship that went into them!

I recently became troubled by the threat of closure to our Trout Creek Community Center when it was stated there were issues with the roof collapsing in the arena.

As I was researching information on this for an upcoming article I was becoming very concerned as to how this affects our little town. Not only is this building a place where families gather to celebrate weddings, anniversaries or dances, it’s also a huge hockey and skating facility! All the Agricultural Fall Fairs and Carnivals are held there not to mention events! Craft shows, Car Shows, Horse Shows/competitions, Dog Shows, Equine and Farm Trade Shows with most donating their proceeds back to either the Agricultural Society or the Community Centre itself. Heck, back in the day there was even Blue Grass

Festivals held on the grounds!

Now that’s what I call community spirit! It goes beyond this as well because Trout Creek Community Centre is also where our people are to gather if there is a State of Emergency! That’s right! Our safe haven in times of trouble is in trouble.

Trout Creek Contin.. on Page A8

It’s just a few months until we are back into planting Flowers and Vegetables.

Our seeds have arrived! Come check out the different varieties along with everything you need to get those seeds started.

5 Burrows St Magnetawan, ON, Canada P0A 1P0 1 705-387-3988

A New Beginning for Parry Sound Families: Habitat for Humanity Prepares to Build Dreams

With Linda West Nestled in the heart of Parry Sound, a quiet neighborhood on Hillcrest Avenue has become the backdrop for a story of hope and determination. Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North has officially purchased the property at 19 Hillcrest Avenue, marking the first critical step in creating a new affordable home for a deserving family in our community. With the sale finalized, the real work begins—bringing together local residents, businesses, and organizations to fundraise for the build and turn this vision into reality.

A Home Beyond Bricks and Mortar Habitat for Humanity is more than just a builder of homes; it’s a builder of opportunity and stability. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a safe and decent place to live, Habitat works alongside families to create housing solutions that are affordable, sustainable, and empowering. Families selected for Habitat homes contribute sweat equity by working on the

construction of their house or volunteering with Habitat, underscoring the partnership model at the core of its mission.

This purchase symbolizes a new chapter for a Parry Sound family in need. The property’s acquisition was led by Ab Fuller of Parry Sound and Kimberley Woodcock, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway

North. Ab stated, “This is not just an investment in land; it’s an investment in our community’s future.”

Building Community, One Nail at a Time Habitat for Humanity’s model is rooted in the spirit of collaboration and volunteerism. The construction process involves the hands and hearts of countless individuals,

from skilled tradespeople to first-time hammer holders. Businesses, community groups, and families come together on the build site, united by a common purpose: to provide a foundation for better lives.

The upcoming build at 19 Hillcrest Avenue offers an opportunity for our community to rally around this mission. Every nail driven, every wall raised, and every coat of paint applied will represent the collective effort of Parry Sound to lift up one of its own.

The property purchased stands ready to become a beacon of hope—but only with your support.

Fundraising: The Heart of the Build To transform this newly purchased lot into a home, significant funds are needed. Habitat relies on the generosity of local donors, sponsors, and volunteers to cover the costs of construction materials, labor, and other essential expenses. Fundraising efforts are already underway, and we invite everyone in the Parry Sound area to get involved.

Habitat for Humanity Continued on Pg B3

David Sheepway / Realtor / Port Loring Branch Manager

Working For You! www.loringrestoulerealestate.com

705-757-1421 / team.sheepway@gmail.com / Parry Sound / Muskoka Realty Ltd. / Port Loring Branch

“When it’s time to TOSS....Call the BOSS!”

Roofing • Junk • Reno • Construction Sherlock Holmes NEVER said “Elementary, my dear Watson”

Federal Government Allocates $1 Billion in Temporary Aid for Canada Post

GNA STAFF: On January 24th, Public Services and Procurement Canada announced its intention to provide more than $1 billion in “repayable funding” to assist the financially struggling Canada Post. The Crown corporation will have access to up to $1.034 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year under provisions of the Canada Post Corporation Act. This funding is designed to prevent insolvency and ensure the agency can meet its nondiscretionary obligations.

The government stated that the funding will act as “a financial bridge” to maintain operations and support the jobs of over 68,000 workers. However, the assistance is temporary, and Canada Post will be required to repay the funds.

There have been mounting financial challenges since 2018, Canada Post has accumulated losses exceeding $3 billion, depleting its cash reserves. The Crown corporation projects that without shortterm financing, it will exhaust its reserves by the second quarter of this year. Recent disruptions, such as the month-long strike from November to December 2024, further exacerbated its financial challenges.

Even with postage rate increases, Canada Post has struggled to meet its operating

cash requirements. The agency attributes its losses to significant changes in the parcel delivery sector, declining mail volumes, and rising labour costs. In recent years, Canada Post has had to rely on its cash reserves to cover rising expenses and sustain its current services.

Temporary relief and long-term changes are needed, the federal government emphasized that the cash injection is a short-term measure, allowing Canada Post to continue operations while addressing its underlying issues. The funding is subject to further approvals, with the government and Canada Post working together to develop a plan for long-term sustainability.

In a statement, Canada Post acknowledged that significant changes are necessary for a return to financial health. The Crown corporation is expected to explore structural reforms and strategies to adapt to the evolving postal and parcel delivery market.

As Canada Post navigates these challenges, the federal funding provides a lifeline to maintain its solvency and secure the livelihoods of thousands of workers. However, the road ahead will require innovative solutions and a commitment to restructuring in order to build a sustainable future for the Crown corporation.

Can I identify as a NON-BINARY POLITICAL supporter?

You know there is an election when?

GNA Staff-Jim Shedden

As most know, I am a conservative. Although, I took a pile (7) quizzes to find out what my political leanings were.

They ask you a gazillion questions and then come out and tell you what you are. NEEDLESS TO SAY, I HAVE BEEN TOLD A FEW TIMES. Ok, they were American quizzes if that matters. All 7 quizzes said I was a liberal. When that came back I just freaked. I ran downstairs to Cyndi screaming like a spoiled little brat that just got his Iphone taken away. I was yelling at Cyndi : “ I don’t believe it, those nasty pollsters called me a liberal. Hmmm…maybe I am a liberal. I sure acted like one.

But here’s the thing, I get press releases from the political parties all the time saying how great they are and what they are doing and why we should vote for them and blah blah blah. But, this week it has gone overboard. Graydon Smiths office has sent be 3 or 4 media releases in 2 days. I think the world of Graydon, hell, I even had his election sign on my front lawn, and I will again.

Ontario Investing $14.6 Million To Help Build More Homes In West Parry Sound 19.75 million capital investment to add 84 new adult hospice beds across the province Ontario Investing in Northern Communities and Businesses $10 million increase in Northern Ontario Heritage Fund will help create more jobs and develop local workforce Ontario Investing Additional $6.6 Million Into Local Hospitals But, I think that I am becoming a “non-binary political I don’t give a shit” individual when it comes to political parties. I get it. This is the way it is done. Oh, did I mention that Dougy is sending out $200 checks to everyone that qualifies. Hmm…maybe there is an election in the air. Don’t get me wrong. I am still voting conservative but geez…they are all so full of shit that their eyes are turning brown.

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Speaking of political BS, I attended the Sundridge, Strong & Joly restructuring meeting with another local mayor. It was held at the high school in South River. There was a lot of pissed off people when they found out that they were not allowed to ask questions about whether the 3 communities should amalgamate or not. Instead, people were treated like they were in kindergarten. The facilitator told everyone that they had to go to 4 other locations in the building and right down their questions. Then they would be collected and tallied. Obviously, this was done so that people could not express their feelings. God forbid people not be allowed to express themselves at a public meeting. Especially something so important. By the way, how come only Tim Bryson of Strong Township was the only mayor present? Last time I checked there are 3 communities involved and yet only one shows. I guess it’s not that important or they knew that it was a non-event. In the end, it didn’t matter. There was no information forwarded or delivered. Oh, by the way when I was standing outside the auditorium talking to people I approached the facilitator and handed her my card. I asked if I could give her a call next week. She handed my card back to me and suggested that I contact the individual towns. The other mayor that was with me was stunned. Talk about being sanitized.

Email: karen.kropf@icloud.com Call or Text 705-571-7202 Located in Katrine I guarantee your satisfaction.

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Now we come to Burk’s Falls, Armour & Ryerson. What a cluster “f” this is. I am standing back and just listening and watching before I really get into it. I received an email from Dave Gray who is the director of ACED which is short for Almaguin Community Economic Development. Dave is an awesome individual and I consider him a friend. In a nutshell, ACED is having a bit of a hard time. Burk’s Falls has announced that they are pulling out of ACED. This has not sat well with ACED or Armour Township. The ACED office is in the Armour Township building. Now, Dave is becoming the new Clerk Treasurer since John Theriault is retiring. Therefore Dave will be the Director for ACED as well as the Clerk Treasurer for Armour. To me, this just seems to be a bit of a conflict of interest. If not, then it needs to be explained to me. As the story continued I got an email from Armour Township on their letterhead from Dave under his ACED banner stating that Armour is pulling out of the Tri-R agreements because one of their partners is not playing nice. Guess who? The Tri-R agreement is between Burk’s Falls, Ryerson and Armour. Looking from the outside in, I get the feeling that this is a bit of “its my ball and bat and I’m leaving” directed towards the Burk’s Falls council for leaving ACED. Time will tell. Check page A4 for Mayor Hope’s response to the conflict.

Hey, were are not done yet.

As we are going over Armour minutes we came to something that was a little concerning.

Apparently, there is an application being brought before Armour Township for a lithium battery storage facility on Pegg’s Mountain. Pegg’s Mountain is just across the highway from Tim Horton’s. Personally, I see huge red flags here. I talked to Joe Redman (fire chief) and Joe has been doing a lot of research when it comes to lithium. The 3 main concerns I have with the project is that if there is a fire you cannot use water on it however, you need water to cool off the other cells. Secondly, if there is a fire the prevailing winds bring it right into Burk’s Falls. And thirdly, it is awfully close to the Magnetawan River. I have a suspicion that communities further down river such as Magnetawan will have a lot to say in the future. For now, Armour Township is doing the right thing and organizing meetings for community input.

Why are foods from cultures near the equator so spicy?

Collective wisdom suggests that since the climate by the equator is warmer, food spoils quicker, so the spices helped better preserve the food. But where did the spices come from in the first place? Researchers in Bolivia found a fungus that grows near the equator that destroys seeds. Peppers that contained "capsaicin" (a spicy chemical), are resistant to this seed-eating fungus. The researchers found that where there was more seed-eating fungus, the peppers that survived were too spicy for the fungus to eat them. But why do people eat them? One theory: spicy peppers are immune to fungus - that's why they're so popular. The spicier the food is, the less likely it has fungus that makes people sick. Also, before there were refrigerators, the spices could have worked as a food preservative, the way Europeans used to use salt.

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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FEBRUARY 1ST- 2025 CONTRIBUTORS

February has always been a bit of a mystery for me. I am thrilled the longest month of the year has ended, and hopefully the freezing cold temperatures. I love love love snow, but the cold? Take me away! February always brings the hopeful promise of March, it serves as a bridge between winter’s deep freeze and the first whispers of spring

TAMARA BAIN CATHARINA BOWERS DOUG BROWN MARY ANN BRUNELLE DIANA BRUSHEY MICHELLE BUDIWSKI CYNDI CULBERT BERNIE GIESLER RICHARD DOWSON VALERIE DINGMAN KEVIN HILL DOROTHY REYNARD-HOPSON LYNDA HOWSE DEBBIE IRELAND KATHY JEANNEAULT KATHY KUJULA STEPHEN LEHMAN LISA LAHN DAN LAWRENCE KARA MITCHELL BOB NUNN JENNIFER RICHARDSON JAMES SHEDDEN PETER WYATT JIM YOUNG PERRY FIRE AND RESCUE KEARNEY FIRE RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SUNDRIDGE LIONS

February has its moments of warmth. There is lots of fun to be had with the Winter Carnivals, Family Day celebrations and Valentine’s Day, this year its all wrapped up in one! With family day falling the 3rd Monday its’ an ‘all in one weekend!’

Whether you love Valentines Day or loathe it, brings reminders of love in all its forms—romantic, familial, and platonic. I’ve always appreciated the simple gestures more than the grand ones: a handwritten note, an unexpected call from a friend, or even a kind smile from a stranger. Those moments make February feel a little less bleak. Jim, are you listening or reading this?

Ultimately, February, for me, is about finding meaning in the little things. It may be short, cold, and sometimes dreary, but it holds a depth that makes me appreciate the changing of seasons.

Maybe that’s its quiet lesson—endure, reflect, and embrace the warmth wherever you find it, because brighter days are always ahead.

As your paper continues to grow and to provide coverage of our areas, we encourage you to send us your photos, your stories, your comments! Remember, you don’ have to be a journalist or a professional writer! We love good news and ‘real people content!’ it keeps us unique!

If you have events happening, please share them with us, our community news helps everyone to keep on top of things that are happening! If we don’t know about it, we can’t keep you informed!

SUNDRIDGE FOODBANK

SHOW ME THE MONEY! ONTARIANS AWAIT $200 TAX REBATE CHEQUES

The Ontario government is delivering $200 taxpayer rebate cheques starting late January and continuing into early February.

Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility and how to track your payment.

Are You Eligible?

To qualify for the rebate, you must meet the following criteria: Be 18 years or older.

Be a resident of Ontario as of December 31, 2023.

Not have declared bankruptcy in 2024.

Not be incarcerated in 2024.

Have filed a 2023 income tax return by December 31, 2024.

How Much Will You Get? The standard rebate amount is $200 for eligible individuals. However, families who qualify for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will also receive a separate cheque of $200 for each eligible child under the age of 18.

For example, an eligible family of five with two adults and three children will receive $1,000 in total. In shared custody arrangements, payments will be split based on the most recent CCB information available.

How to Track Your Cheque You can track the status of your rebate cheque with a few simple steps: Set up an account using the last four digits of your Social Insurance Number (SIN), your birth date, your postal code, and the mailing address registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

Your cheque will be mailed to the address the CRA has on file.

What to Do If You’ve Moved If you’ve recently moved or need to update your mailing address within Ontario, visit Ontario.ca/TaxpayerRebate or call Service Ontario: 1-833-351-0409 1-888-821-9056 (TTY) If a cheque was mailed to your old address, it will be cancelled, and a new one will be sent to your updated address.

Keep an eye on your mailbox – your rebate is on its way!

DISCLAIMER NOTICE GREAT NORTH ARROW ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE VIEWS AND OPINIONS OF ANY CONTRIBUTOR OR COLUMNIST FOR THIS PUBLICATION. OPINIONS EXPRESSED BY SUCH, ARE STRICLTLY THOSE, AND THEIR OWN, OF THE AUTHOR, AND DOES NOT REFELCT OPINIONS OF GREAT NORTH ARROW NEWSPAPER. GREAT NORTH ARROW DOES NOT OR WILL NOT ACCEPT LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY OR ALL SUBMITTED MATERIAL.

GNA is looking for an advertising sales rep, you can work from home, you don’t need experience, just a love for people and a willingness to learn. Interested?

This month will be extra special for Jim and I, we are about to become Grandparents to a 5th brand new baby who will be born at the end of this month to our kids, Landon and Nicole Theodoru and big brother Bowen. To me, this makes February a blessing and a wonderful month of love, I hope that yours is as well! ….. see you around the towns, Cyndi

FIRST QUARTER NEWSPAPER DATES AND INTO APRIL JANUARY 2025

JJANUARY 31ST - (ACTUAL 1ST FEB EDITION)

FEBRUARY 2025

FEBRUARY 14TH - 2ND EDITION FEBRUARY 28TH - (ACTUAL 1ST MARCH EDITION)

MARCH 2025

MARCH 14TH - 2ND EDITION THERE IS A BIT OF A BREAK BETWEEN MARCH 14TH AND APRIL 4TH!)

APRIL 2025

APRIL 4TH - 1ST EDITION APRIL 18TH - 2ND EDITION

WHERE TO FIND US

AHMIC HARBOUR: TRADER TED’S / BURK’S FALLS: BURK’S FALLS CAFE, CAPSTONE MARKET, COLLINS’ VALU-MART, KWIK WAY / DUNCHURCH: DUCK ROCK / EMSDALE: BIZZY BZZ BOOKBIN, PERRY MART / HUNTSVILLE: CAPSTONE MARKET / KEARNEY: FETTERLEY’S, KEARNEY LEGION / MAGNETAWAN: BAIT AND TACKLE, GRILL AND GROCERY, HOME HARDWARE, QUIET BAY CAFE, DUTCH HARMONY FARMS /NIPISSING:FOOTES GENERAL / NOVAR: HOPES / PARRY SOUND: HILLCREST CONVENIENCE, LANES PHARMACY, NO FRILLS, PIONEER GAS, SOBEYS, NORTHERN BOOK WORMS/ POWASSAN: KRAUSES FEED / PORT LORING: BUCHANAN’S, JAKES RESTAURANT / SPRUCEDALE: KIRK’S CONVENIENCE / SUNDRIDGE: GUARDIAN DRUGS, STONEY LAKE VARIETY, THE BLUE ROOF/ SOUTH RIVER: GUARDIAN DRUG STORE, KIWK WAY / RESTOULE: GERRY’S, MILL BAY MARKET / TROUT CREEK: TROUT CREEK GENERAL STORE, TROUT CREEK FEEDS

SUPPORT LOCAL BEFORE THERE ISN'T ANYTHING LOCAL TO SUPPORT. Great North Arrow

Owner / Editor : Cyndi Culbert /Jim Shedden Pre-press & Copy Layout & Other BS: Jim Shedden Independently Owned and PROUD !

Written by OUR PEOPLE for OUR PEOPLE PO Box #210 Magnetawan, Ont; P0A 1P0 Cyndi-705-203-0115/ Email: greatnortharrow@gmail.com Jim-705-203-0117/ jamesb.greatnortharrow@gmail.com www.greatnortharrow.com

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Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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GROCERY – BAKERY BAKEAT ATHOME HOME PIZZA! GROCERY – BAKERYGOODS GOODS – – BAKE PIZZA! CHAPMANS ICE CREAM/ COVERED BRIDGE CHIP AND CANDY! CHAPMANS ICE CREAM/ COVERED BRIDGE CHIP AND CANDY! ! CLOTHING AND SHOE SHOP! NEW SECTION OF TOYS Jim Shedden editoral: An hour before our lastAND paper wentSHOE to press I received this press CLOTHING SHOP! HUGE NEW SELECTION OF TOYS THE MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ARMOUR release from Dave Gray. Dave is our Director of ACED (Almaguin Community Economic

56 Ontario Street, PO Box 533, Burk’s Falls, Ontario P0A1C0 Development: 6618 HIGHWAY 124 AHMIC HARBOUR OPEN Phone: SEVEN DAYS A WEEK (705)382-3332 Fax (705)382-2068 Good afternoon and Happy New Year Jim and Cyndi, “I am forwarding along the attached press release from Armour Township Council regarding Armour’s resolution to withdraw from the current shared services agreements January 15, 2025 with the Township of Ryerson and Village of Burk’s Falls. There will undoubtedly be lot of potential for public speculation, so Council wanted to ensure that ratepayers and ***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*** partners were privy to their reasoning for making the decision. Per the contact info on ARMOUR TOWNSHIP PROVIDES NOTICE TO WITHDRAW FROM TRI-COUNCIL SHARED the release, Mayor Ward has indicated that he is available for any further questions SERVICE AGREEMENTS should you wish to cover the story in an upcoming edition of the Great North Arrow. “ Thanks, The Township of Armour believes that a strong municipality, providing the best possible value Dave Gray / director@explorealmaguin.ca and the best possible services to its ratepayers, requires the best possible partnerships. Our small municipalities in the Almaguin Highlands cannot stand alone. In order for those decision to present notice to leave ACED partnerships to work, a clear and common vision is required. Insulating ourselves within our (a matter entirely unrelated to the Tri-R own municipal borders will not allow this vision to be realized. agreement). The timing is obvious, and the CHRIS HOPE reaction and discussion at their last Council At its January 14, 2025 Council meeting, the Township of Armour took the difficult step of made it clear how upset they were. The advising that it is providing written notice of its intention to withdraw from both the tri-council amount of personal vitriol directed at other Library agreement (as of January 14, 2026) and the tri-council Shared Services Agreement municipal partners and individuals was for the Arena, Landfill and Fire Services (as of December 31, 2027). Council felt strongly that sad to witness and regrettable to hear. We one of its tri-council partners does not share a common vision with us and prefers to stay hope they will reflect upon it and perhaps insulated within its borders. Unfortunately, this means that the partnership is working gain some insights in how to better process counter to what we are trying to achieve. This decision was not taken lightly by any means. challenges in the future.

The Council of the Village of Burk’s Falls are We see this as a step back from one partnership to allow us to work on more productive THOUGHTS ON RECENT ANNOUNCEMENTS Stewards of the People’s House and will partnerships and lead a vision for the entire Almaguin Highlands. How this vision is formed not permit such personal attacks on other FROM ARMOUR TOWNSHIP requires these new partnerships. Region-wide, fully-supported services for economic municipal personalities in open council as it lacks the appropriate class and decorum development. Region-wide, fully-supported and coordinated services for healthcare ON BURK’S FALLS’ DECISION TO LEAVE expected of us by our citizens. Their decladelivery. Region-wide, fully-supported services for housing and land-use planning. Centres THE ALMAGUIN COMMUNITY ECONOMIC ration that the Tri-R Agreements are ending DEVELOPMENT (ACED) of excellence for individual services for everyone across the Almaguin Highlands. Building The decision to leave ACED was driven by a seemed primed to shock and alarm people on the success-through-cooperation of our Fire Services across Almaguin. Building on the needlessly, which was not fair to anyone. number of factors: success of our economic development through Almaguin Community Economic However, the current Tri-R Agreement runs 1. Rising cost versus growing infrastrucDevelopment (ACED). Building on the success of our Almaguin-wide approach to healthcare out at end of 2027 at which time renegotiature commitments. This year the cost for services through the Almaguin Highlands Health Council (AHHC). tion is expected.

And in the business world, membership is nearly $20,000 and rises yet renegotiation is a natural progression of more next year. That’s equivalent to an inWe need a view of our infrastructure needs across the entire region, from arenas to fire halls every contract. lease or agreement. The crease of 1.5% in property taxes each year to health and wellness centres. We need a shift to acting as one cohesive unit with one just to pay for ACED, so not a small amount. Village welcomes this process as it can lead common vision so that we can look down the road to future generations. This vision should to improvements for all sides, so long as 2. Because built up communities have more negotiations are kept entirely business-like serve the entire Almaguin Highlands. It is only with this type of broader, stronger expensive infrastructure costs, they have and not made personal. partnerships that we will get the serious attention required from other levels of government dropped out of ACED. Powassan, Kearney, We entered into these agreements for the Magnetawan and now Burk’s Falls have all to allow us to best-serve all of our citizens. It will allow us to provide the services that our benefit of all ratepayers and citizens, not made this same practical, logical financial current citizens should expect without the inefficiency of doing this in isolation. It will allow just those in one municipality, so when one decision. The cost of everything is more us to attract new businesses, new services, new people to our area. partner lashes out at another so publicexpensive. ly, they risk hurting their own residents 3. In addition, other municipalities are and ratepayers as well. We hope that no participating in ACED on reduced share, so the remaining partners are subsidizing their services will be interrupted before a future agreement is in place so that our citizens participation as well. And since the role of are not adversely affected.

ACED is to promote the entire Almaguin However, this incident amply demonstrates Highlands, all its current members are the fundamental flaw in the Tri-R agreesubsidising those that are not partners in ments themselves. Which is that they have it. As expenses rise, this brings into quesgrown imbalanced over time. tion the overall fairness and balance of the In corporate or contract law, Unilateral deACED initiative as currently structured. Its fines a one-sided scenario that can end up obviously too expensive for some, and of hurting a business or partnership. Through nominal value to others, so now could be a a majority share or leveraged position in welcome opportunity to re-examine it, its the partnership, one partner uses this unicosts, purpose and administrative struclateral position to influence or punish the ture. decisions of another partner or partners.

4. Recent sudden changes in ACED adminWe sincerely hope that the Township of Aristration further complicated the situation. mour is not attempting to use their greater Before too much blame and blather is recklessly thrown around, such core admin- financial contributions in Tri-R to punish a smaller $ partner for an independent deistrative changes to ACED could have been cision made on a matter entirely separate presented to its members with more time from the Tr-R Agreement. for thoughtful analysis.

The Village is always interested in economic The Tri-R Agreements run until the end of 2027 and a mediation clause is already development initiatives, and we have been in them for renegotiations by the next a partner in ACED for five years, but other spending priorities must also be considered Councils. The agreement serves our area residents very well, and that includes to sustain Village services. Furthermore, Armour residents. As a Tri-R partner, Burk’s measuring the success of any economic Falls manages the Arena’s operations and development initiative is highly subjective it has never been so successful, returning based upon the available criteria. surplus cheques to our partners last year, When taking into consideration these and it’s projecting an 800% increase in elements, the Village Council was left with advertising and sponsorship revenue for a very difficult business decision to make, 2025. It’s been a win-win-win for the Tri-R and we are saddened that it has been met partnership. with ill-considered personal rancour from We do not interfere in the internal decisome quarters. sions of other councils. All we ask is that ON DISTRICT INITIATIVES our partners listen to us and not get too far The Village of Burk’s Falls fully supports ahead in any mutual interest without an the overall concept of greater coordination open discussion with all partners, and not between municipalities in Almaguin, as it just those who may timidly agree. could offer many logistical and adminisPartnerships are built on first being able to trative benefits across the district. But it listen and understand one another and not remains to be seen what is achievable and to intimidate or punish their partners when what is ‘just clouds in my coffee’ as the they hear a decision they don’t like. classic song goes.

Acetaminophen In the end, though, the Village of Burk’s But more discussion would always be All drugs have two names; a trade name and generic name. Example, the trade name is Tylenol and Falls welcomes all discussions with its partwelcome. its generic name is Acetaminophen.. Aleve is also called Naproxen, Amoxil is also called Amoxicillin ners, perceived good or bad, because only and Advil is also called Ibuprofen. The FDA has been looking for a generic name for Viagra, After ON THE TRI-R AGREEMENTS dialogue, and not dictation, can resolve careful consideration by a team of The decision by Armour Township to issue government experts, it recently announced that it has settled on the generic name of Mycoxaflopa unilateral declaration that they were leav- our differences and truly serve our fellow pin. Also considered were Mycoxafailin, Mydixadrupin, Mydixarizin, Dixafix, and of course, Ibepokin. citizens. ing the Tri-R Agreements was almost cerPfizer Corp. announced today that Viagra will soon be available in liquid form, and will be marketed tainly in reaction to the Village’s December

BURK’S FALLS MAYOR

A necropsy is an autopsy on animals.

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Pepsi will market the new concoction by the name of: MOUNT & DO.

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There are about 450 types of cheese in the world. 240 come from France.

Tariffs and Mandate Misdirection

By Peter Wyatt

Are we missing something? Donald Trump has been threatening tariffs against Canada and Mexico for several weeks.

Yet the United States has a trade treaty with Canada and Mexico. Call it USMCA or CUSMA, it was negotiated in Trump’s first presidency. First, he killed NAFTA—“the worst trade deal ever”—and then crowed, when CUSMA was signed, that what he had negotiated was the best ever. So, how is it that he is preparing to kill USMCA? There are photos of Trump, Trudeau, and the president of Mexico all beaming at the table as the treaty was signed. It was signed to be in effect until 2036, and the first review is slated for 2026. Don’t we have a deal until the term of the treaty is

up? What is the signature of the president of the United States worth these days?

Some politicians surprise us when they live up to the dignity and decency of high office. But some manage only to lower, indeed to sully, its dignity and decency.

On top of this Trumpian high-handedness, we now have a provincial election on our hands. The Premier says that he needs a fresh mandate to carry on the battle against tariff threats. Does he really? Mr. Ford has almost another year and a half to go before he must call an election, and he has a substantial majority in the legislative assembly. Moreover, it seems unlikely that the leaders of the other parties or very many of the people of Ontario oppose his meet-fire-with-fire approach. On resistance to Trump, he already has all the mandate he needs across party lines.

This is one of those rare moments when the threats of an external enemy unite almost all within a country across party lines. This crisis was a shining opportunity for parliamentary collaboration across party lines—all working together for the common good rather than indulging in partisan bickering. Instead of spending most of February in the wintry exhaustion of electioneering, our provincial parties could be working together on Ontario’s part in all-Canada resistance to economic blackmail.

There were signs that Premier Ford was preparing for an early election anyway, starting with the promise of a $200 cheque to every Ontario voter. Then there were the billboards heralding the way the PCs are “getting results,” followed by partisan attack ads, and the notice to provincial returning officers requiring advanced election readiness. Trump has presented the Premier with an ogre to combat and his heroic Captain Canada stance (“Canada is not for sale”) is popular. This popularity points up the hollowness of the claim that the Premier needs a fresh mandate to do battle with the ogre.

The call of this election seems like opportunism, if not cynicism. Readers may remember the opportunism of Premier David Peterson when he called an early election and lost in 1990 to Bob Rae. With a good majority and no need to call an election, Peterson thought that he had a chance to roll up a big win. Will Doug Ford get such a surprise?

Premier Ford outperformed expectation and united most Ontarians during the Covid 19 crisis. He seems to be outperforming again with his unequivocal stance against the tariff threats. Good on him.

But the cronyism of his governing style, his tone-deafness to key environmental issues, and this opportunistic move are disappointing. The office of premier should lift him

above crass party spirit.

Elections are integral to democracy, and we must have them. But what we need now is not an election but for our already elected leaders to defend the integrity of our border with the U.S.—not so much to protect U.S. interests as Canada’s. President Trump threatens not only tariffs but also, implicitly, takeover with his 51st state musings. And what an insult to think that ten provinces and three territories could only amount to one state!

We should not forget that William Seward, Lincoln’s secretary of state, who secured Alaska as a U.S. possession, persistently advocated for the annexation of Canada.

The world’s longest undefended border needs to be defended figuratively and literally.

Peter Wyatt is a retired United Church minister living in the Almaguin Highlands. He is an associate professor emeritus and former principal of Emmanuel College at the University of Toronto. He continues to take delight in leading worship, reading, swimming, walking, and singing. With his wife, Joan, another retired minister and professor, he also delights in the activities of six grandchildren.

The number “four” is considered unlucky in Japan because it is pronounced the same as “death”.

IN MY OPINION

With BOB NUNN RESPECT Its the Canadian Way. First off l am not voting for Justin Trudeau or likely not any new to be appointed leader of the Liberal party. However, l am very upset by the disrespect and lies people have thrown at Prime Minister Trudeau. You may not agree

with all his decisions ( Like l, in particular his reckless spending of hard earned taxpayer $$ ) but that gives no reason for not being civil and respectful to a fellow Canadian and to the office of the Prime Minister of Canada. That disgraceful woman who insulted him with obscene comments at a BC ski resort parking lot does NOT represent true traditional Canada values or morals. His guide for the week denies reports as untrue of him acting in an elitist manner. Mr. Trudeau visited a Thunder Bay ski resort last year for a day of snow boarding and although l was not there the owner of the hill, Loc iomond, told me personally that he was respectful in every way and lined up like everyone else. And He took the time to greet many patrons In addition l have seen him behind the scenes arriv-

ing at a small airport and observed him shaking hands and talking in length with the ground handlers and fuel truck driver Ever since that rude orange clown Tramp came down the golden escalator politics & by metamorphism much of the public in America and now it seems Canada too has come to accept that rude and obscene is acceptable behaviour Ok if you think he’s done a bad job as PM well run for the job and let’s see how well you do then. Please, Let’s maintain the politeness and civility that Canadians are known and respected for worldwide.

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Dark Days

Deborah Bussey INSERT MENTAL HEALTH I can’t believe we are already saying goodbye to January and welcoming in the shortest and possibly the hardest month of the year, February. I have heard it referred to as the darkest month and I’m not quite sure why that is....it may be linked to our weather up here in God’s Country. Although recently, if anyone noticed, Hell froze over

in the Gulf of America! So, Mother Nature is making a few statements. But I digress....

February is the halfway point of our winter.

Usually once you are over the “hump” of winter it tends to become easier to handle.

Well, the jury is out on that one, but I have heard that it’s like a sugar rush then crash scenario. Yet I think it has more to do with the fact that so much effort and hype went into the holiday season and partaking in its festivities that our bodies and minds need a time out period to readjust. I’m not going

to say back to normal because I don’t know what that is. For some it is probably when that Visa bill comes in and reality smacks ya right in the face with how overly generous you were....once again.

My mother referred to February as the “Blue” month. Back in the day when one was out of sorts or depressed or sad it was referred to as being “blue”.

No one liked to talk about it. There was a real stigma attached to any ailment that dealt with mental health back then and in a lot of cases still today. People fear what they don’t understand. This can sometimes lead to cruel or misguided treatment towards someone when they are ignorant to that person’s condition.

I have to say that there is definitely more momentum towards building awareness and understanding of mental health which is a step in the right direction for sure.

We still need to be mindful of our words and actions as people don’t walk around with signs pinned to their shirt stating the status of their mental or physical well-being.

The excuse of not knowing doesn’t cut it and even when an apology is offered although appreciated the acknowledgement doesn’t take away the sting or scar of those original spoken words or actions.

Each person we meet comes with a lifetime of baggage. Experiences consisting of; lessons, adventures, and journeys that are only a portion of what makes up that individual. Each will have hopes, fears, dreams, love, illness, accidents, face dangers and death which again forms a portion of their character. How one rides the highs and lows is what will determine how they can adjust and face life challenges. Some are survivors while others become so depleted that they give up or give in.

I know we don’t mean to but sometimes we take life for granted. We get busy, caught up in life’s drama and forget that there are no guarantees. We didn’t sign a contract that set out the terms and conditions of our life path when we came into this world.

We didn’t get to choose our life in any way

shape or form yet there are some among us who believe we did. That’s okay too.

Whatever works for you.

There is so much effort, exposure and financial assistance poured into physical health and diseases but we are still far behind on providing mental health services on the level that’s required.

Look around you, I think you’ll be shocked to learn that far too many individuals try to hide their mental health condition for fear of being ostracized. Many suffer with anxiety, depression, PTSD or a multitude of other undiagnosed conditions. Just as a physical ailment may take years to navigate and help someone on the road to recovery the same applies to mental health issues.

I guess the most blatant difference is that most physical ailments are visual while a mental health condition may not be so visual.

Because we are all unique human beings', treatment for one person may not work for another. This sometimes isolates a person where they step away from situations and reality preferring to be reclusive and away from prying eyes and judgement. Not always the best solution.

I can definitely understand their wanting solitude yet when we cut ourselves off from others we also remove any hope for human kindness or connectiveness which could lead to healing.

The scope of mental health issues is as vast as our country with variances in conditions as unique as the individuals it affects.

Not every condition requires invasive treatment, medication or intervention. Many need a good support person in their lives, attend private or group sessions or have that one friend who will sit with them over a cup of tea and let you cry or cheer you up. Whatever it takes to get you back on track. However, we are very much lacking in facilities to house our vulnerable who are in desperate need of care until they are ready to handle life challenges.

We once had a huge hospital in North Bay that was dedicated to helping those with mental health issues. Were there issues at the hospital....yes, was their treatment

outdated or maybe even a bit barbaric.... yes. However, we are more aware now than ever before and safeguards could be put in place to ensure the ethical and safe treatment for all. JMO Check out your local community for services that may be available. Confide in someone you trust or make an appointment with your doctor to find out what services are available.

Life is too precious and too short to waste it on worry, doubt or fear. Reach out......

You’re worth it.

Sources available: 1.You doctor.

2.CMHA – www.ontario.chma,ca 3.www.ontario.ca They offer access to lots of information.

There is even a page for children/youth.

4.Toll Free Help Line for Canadians 5 to 29yrs. 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT. They are available 24/7 offering confidential and anonymous care by trained responders.

5.Call 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline January 22nd was Bell Let’s Talk day. Something I wish they would offer more often.

May is Mental Health Month We don’t know what tomorrow holds so please go forward with good intentions and above all else........kindness.

When I told my parents over the phone that my husband has the flu, my dad said "Have you tried euthanasia?" and in the background my mom yelled "For the last time, it's echinacea!"

Americans are responsible for about 1/5 of the world’s garbage annually.

Collins’ Valu-mart 24 Commercial Dr, Burk’s Falls, (705) 382-3134

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In 10 minutes, a hurricane releases more energy than all the world’s nuclear weapons combined.

CONTINUING A LONG FAMILY TRADITION

With Tamara Mathews After a rough start, the recent snowfall is making life a whole lot easier for local trappers.

Lyle Matthews has been working hard the last week, breaking trails, finding new and old ponds on his trap-line way back in the bush in Loring.

A long tradition in the Matthews family, Lyle learned the line from his grandfather, Johnny Matthews, and is very proud and honoured to be the fourth generation to trap this zone.

Equipped with the latest in technology, trapping is still hugely labour intensive with the unexpected around each corner of the trail, challenging both body and mind.

This camp was built in the '40's as a logging camp and has been kept alive by trappers like Lyle.

Carrying on the tradition that helped to build our country.

HELP WANTED ADS ONTARIO PARKS Ontario Parks is hiring secondary and post-secondary students for summer 2025! This summer, adventure within Ontario’s forests, beaches, rivers and lakes while gaining job skills and experience!

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Where Do Your Loyalties Lie?

- jim Young, LORING, ON “You can’t buy happiness, but you can live in Canada.

And that’s pretty much the same thing.” – anon

I recently saw a post on Facebook calling for Canadians to boycott products made in the U.S. Given the current state of affairs between Canada and the U.S. I thought this was not a bad idea. The post listed a number of substitutes for commonly purchased groceries to help make wise choices when grocery shopping.

A disclaimer on the list stated “Some products still to be vetted.”

So before sharing I set out to “factcheck” the list as I usually try to do anyway.

On a separate topic I wonder why so many people, on the one hand, accuse me of being a “sheep” and just go along with what everyone else says and then on the other hand make fun of me for attempting to “fact-check” for false information? Is it wrong to want to be right?

It took considerable time to research this data but I wanted to be sure it was at least reasonably accurate.

There were a few changes that I found necessary to make, although I am not suggesting these were anything more than minor oversights on the part of the original poster.

I applaud the OP for the effort made.

Creating the original list was the hard part.

I have only expanded on it as I hope you will too.

Even so, I feel the following disclaimers are called for in my version of the list.

It should be known that some of the products I am suggesting Canadians boycott may actually be made in Canada but are manufactured by an American company. I have tried to highlight those to the best of my ability. If you are uncertain check the labels.

Likewise, some of the suggested alternatives, while manufactured in Canada may also be manufactured in the U.S. and I have tried to indicate which ones those are.

Check the labels.

It should also be known that many, but not all of the suggested substitutions are manufactured by companies that are 100% Canadian owned. I did NOT take it upon myself to identify those as I felt it was too easily subject to error. This list, as was the original list, is intended only as a guide.

You might have to do some of your own research if you want more in-depth information or are unsure about the accuracy of what I have presented here.

A good place to start is by checking the labels.

If I have made any mistakes or missed anything (E.&O.E. as lawyers like to say) please let me know and I will make every effort to correct it.

Let’s take a look at a few specific examples.

MAYONNAISE Realistically there is no chance in hell that I am going to be able to convince my wife to give up her Hellman’s Mayonnaise for this boycott. My Shirley is willing to give President’s Choice or Compliments Mayonnaise a shot, but only if absolutely necessary.

Fortunately, we found a loophole. As it

turns out, while Hellman’s is an American company, it was founded by a German immigrant and is now owned by a British Multinational Company. While Hellman’s is manufactured in the U.S., it is also manufactured in Europe AND Canada - yay Canada! Even better, Hellman’s mayonnaise which has been made in Canada for over 75 years is manufactured with free range eggs from Canadian chickens and Canola oil invented AND manufactured in Canada. How’s that for Canadian content? It is also packaged into jars that are made with 100% recycled plastic. If that’s not enough to justify buying Hellman’s Mayonnaise, my wife has German ancestry in her family and I have British ancestry in mine.

I think my wife gets a pass to continue to enjoy her Hellman’s egg salad sandwiches.

However, if you prefer to purchase your mayonnaise from 100% Canadian Companies, you may want to choose President’s Choice or Compliments brands.

HOT SAUCE I didn’t fare so well with my hot sauce.

Unfortunately Frank’s hot sauces are all American. On the plus side, I’m not as loyal to the Frank’s brand as my wife is to Hellman’s and there are plenty of other Canadian Hot Sauces to choose from such as Dawson’s Hot Sauce and a whole slew of Compliments and President’s Choice Hot Sauces which include a Louisiana and Buffalo variety.

KETCHIP Ketchup has long been a source of contention with Canadians. When Heinz, (an American Company) announced in 2013 that it was moving all of its ketchup manufacturing plants out of Canada, Canadians quickly reacted to the news by switching to French’s Ketchup. French’s was also an American Company but was manufacturing their ketchup in Canada with Canadian tomatoes employing Canadian workers.

Some Canadians even went further by switching to President’s Choice and Compliments which were all of the above BUT also 100% Canadian Companies.

In 2020, the Heinz Company, unlike Trump, recognized they had made an error in underestimating Canadian resolve and came back to Canada with their tails between their legs. So your choices now include Heinz and French’s Ketchup with American companies that manufacture ketchup made by Canadians with Canadian Tomatoes or the better choice of President’s Choice and Compliments with Canadian companies that manufacture ketchup made by Canadians with Canadian Tomatoes.

ORANGE JUICE Things like orange juice and oranges are a little tricker since oranges simply don’t grow in Canada. We kind of have a gun to our heads here. But oranges grow in more places than just Florida. Oranges also can be imported from places like Mexico, South America, South Africa and Spain.

Tropicana Orange Juice is manufactured in the U.S. and imported into Canada. Oasis and SunRype Orange Juices, however, are made in Canada with imported oranges but I’m not sure where their oranges come from. FYI - SunRype also manufactures orange juice in the U.S. so, as always - read the label. As a last resort, although not made in Canada, Arthur’s Orange Juice is made in England and not the U.S. EVERY LITTLE BIT HELPS You don’t have to be fanatical about it to make a difference. Some people are very brand loyal and not likely to make a switch on some of their favourite commodities and that’s Okay. You don’t have to feel

guilty about it.

It’s much better that you make the effort to support as many of the Canadian alternatives as you can than get frustrated and not participate in the boycott at all.

And let’s face it. You may not always have this list handy to help you make your choices. Here’s a couple of suggestions for what to do if you don’t have your list handy.

The first is one that I’ve been harping on all along - “read the label”. If you can’t find a “made in Canada “option, at least pick a “made in almost any other country than the U.S. option”.

The other is, when in doubt about which brand to select, if there’s an option for President’s Choice or Compliments - go with those. Almost all (if not all) of their products are manufactured by a Canadian Company that employs Canadian workers.

And as a bonus - they’re very likely to be a little cheaper too.

Purchasing from a Canadian company that manufactures their products in Canada using Canadian raw materials is always the best option but not always possible or practical. Keep in mind that many American manufacturers have plants operating in Canada or use Canadian Private Label Manufacturers to make their products. These facilities employ Canadians and sometimes use Canadian raw materials which still makes them a viable option over U.S. made imported goods.

Any little bit you can do to ensure we as Canadians are supporting Canadian Businesses as much as we can, will go a long way to help our fellow Canadians during what appears to be even tougher economic times ahead of us.

The goal isn’t to crush the United States (not that we could) but only to get them to sit up and take notice that Canadians will not kow-tow to Trump’s unreasonable demands. Hey, it worked with Heinz Ketchup!

Many of Trump’s supporters defend Trump as president for his business savy which is questionable at best.

Let’s see if Trump is as smart a businessman as Heniz CEO Scott Stratten who said, “the company's decision to leave Leamington in the first place was a misstep, as it inadvertently tapped into Canadians' dormant sense of patriotism. People think Canadians are passive or pushovers, but Canadians are very loyal versus patriotic.…

We are just not all caps yelling about it until something happens.”

That miscalculation cost Kraft Heinz.

My wife has family members in the United States that are Americans born and bred. They and most Americans like them, are not our enemies even though Trump seems hell bent on making enemies of us all.

While Trump is busy building walls, all we as Canadians really want to do is mend fences.

And as one final note, in the interest of full disclosure I would like to point out that my book “Let’s Ask Santa” (written by a proud Canadian Author, me) is available on Amazon.CA However you should be aware that the HardCover version is printed in the U.S. BUT the paperback version is printed in Canada. You know which one to order.

-30If you want to help support Canadian Businesses, you can get a free copy of this list to download or print at www.dogonaroot. com in the downloads section.

I

Do you love food? Do you have the knack for making people smile with just one bite? Fast paced, super busy pierogie truck is seeking their Curb Your Appetite Team Member! Please forward your resume to Marta: curbyourappetite@ hotmail.com

The average American/Canadian will eat about 11.9 pounds of cereal per year!

WANTED VOLUNTEER TO DELIVER HOT MEALS IN THE BURK'S FALLS & SURROUNDING AREAS- LOOKING FOR A RESPONSIBLE & CARING INDIVIDUAL WITH THEIR OWN VEHICLE TO DELIVER MEALS 1-3 TIMES PER WEEK (MON-WED-FRI) VULNERABLE SECTOR CHECK IS REQUIRED. MILEAGE REIMBRUSEMENT IS PROVIDED- MUST BE IN AREA DURING WINTER MONTHS. CONTACT THE CSS OFFICE:705-724-6028 or FOR AN APPLICATION BIG NEWS!! We’ve had so many people asking us - and we are making it happen! This has been a dream of mine forever so I’m super excited to let everyone know that this spring we will be opening Savour This… Cafe! at 204 Ontario Street - right next to Savour This… Artisan Bakery! We will have all your favourite coffee choices (espresso, latte, iced coffee etc.), teas, hot chocolate and more! You’ll be able to sit down and enjoy your beverage (and perhaps a treat) in a comfortable & cozy atmosphere. Stay tuned for updates!!

FEBRUARY 15TH - Winterfest 2025 (Same great event... just a new name). Saturday February 15th. Start your morning with a delicious pancake breakfast cooked by our very own Fire Department. After breakfast head on outside to enjoy the tradition kids and adult games. Games aren't your thing? Then hitch a ride on Thunder Ridge Farm's horse drawn sleigh ride. After a relaxing ride through town you may want to warm up by the outdoor fire and cook yourself a hot dog. Then try your luck at the Puck Toss in support of our local Food Bank. Bring your skates and play a little pick up hockey. There is so much fun to be had by all ages. We look forward to seeing you there.

FEBRUARY 22ND-11AM-3PM- New Nail Trim Fundraiser along with Katie Richmond and Natalee Wheeler we are happy to clip all the pets nails!!!! Saturday February 22nd 100% of the proceeds are going to the

music program at Land of Lakes Public School! They have an amazing production of Aladdin coming up!!! Microphones are expensive!!! Our last fundraiser bought them one! How many can we buy this time!?!? Minimum $10 donation per pet cash only . FEBRUARY 27TH – 4TH THURSDAY – MONTHLY SENIOR FOOT CARE AT THE LEGION BURK’S FALLS LEGION CALL SARAH HARNOCK 705-471-1707 -TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT - $30 PER PERSON

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The GNA would like to welcome Perry Mart of Emsdale as a new outlet for the paper.

Albert Einstein and Charles Darwin both married their first cousins

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

By Richard Dowson

LINEUP FOR NEW DR. COMING TO TOWN IN WALKERTON

Walkerton, Ontario - They started lining up in the dark at 5:30 in the am. But the cold

physician days after working several shifts. ‘ it's just tragic what has happened here and we want to never to be repeated’ said Dr. Charlene Lui – Drs. Of BC President.

The doctors of BC are calling for a review into her death this physician really was dealing with her Medical Association

Injustice? Speak Up

On Saturday, January 27, 1945, a unit of Soviet Union Troops arrived at Auschwitz, the NAZI Concentration and Death Camp. The horror of the NAZI mass murders carried out at the Camp was overwhelming for the liberating, war-hardened Soviet troops.

People seeking domination over others is historic. It continues. Humankind must always be on guard and speak up when dangerous humans rise to power and persecute others.

This poem was written by Martin Niemoller (1892-1984), a German Lutheran minister. A version of the poem is inscribed on the New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston. This wonderful poem explains why we must speak up.

First, they came for the Communists And I did not speak up, Because I was not a Communist Then they came for the Socialists And I did not speak up, Because I was not a Socialist Then they came for the trade unionists And I did not speak up, Because I was not a trade unionist Then they came for the Jews And I did not speak up, Because I was not a Jew Then they came for me And there was no one left, To speak up for me

TRAVELLING IN MY SUITCASE

wasn't all that was bitter in Walkerton ON Wednesday, January 15th, A man in line said, ‘ I'm absolutely disgusted by our medical system’.

A new Dr. coming to town agreed to take on the 1st 500 in line, as new patients and add the next 500 to the wait list. such as the state of Canadian healthcare in 2025, a desperation has seen millions without a family doctor in an many areas in metro Vancouver a CTV exclusive uncovered the death of an emergency room Trout Creek Contininued...

I was losing hope as my research was indicating there was a lot of money going out to architectural/engineering firms to tell them some rather obvious information which requires another architectural/engineering firm to follow up with specific work orders for which they are paid thousands of dollars!!! So I was thinking why are we not utilizing some of that lottery money to fix up or rebuild our community centre? And then I came across a post on our local Facebook page that blew me away.

Travis Tennant had posted about a competition to help our community win some much needed funds for roof repairs to the arena!!!!

Well, I contacted Travis and asked him for more details and he was kind enough to send me some history on what he has been trying to do for our community. His response was amazing.

Travis’s response; I’ve known about Kraft Hockeyville for many years. North Bay won it within the first few years of the competition, and Elliot Lake won it last year. Seeing northern towns win is incredible, and when I came across the page on Facebook, I thought, "Wow, it makes so much sense to nominate the Trout Creek Community Centre."

Late in 2024, an inspection was done on the community centre, and the municipality was informed that there were some structural issues with the roof and the beams supporting it. The municipality had to either shut the arena down if there was snow on the roof or

sees a system in crisis what we're seeing across the country from coast to coast to coast is physicians experiencing burnout at levels we've never seen before and most importantly we're seeing patients who are getting the care that they need there is no quick fix here it'll take years to train more physicians but Dr. Joss Remier, Canadian Medical Association President, says in the shorter term focusing on team with nurse practitioners and pharmacists stepping up can at least help fill in some of the gaps install temporary vertical support beams between the old, existing ones to keep it open for the time being.

Our arena could benefit tremendously from the grand prize of $250,000 in repairs and upgrades. Without this funding, the arena may face closure if there aren’t enough funds to repair everything.

This arena was built by the community, for the community, and to this day, our small town contributes in any way we can to support it. It became a no-brainer to nominate our arena once I thought of this. This money could be the deciding factor between keeping the doors open or shutting it down for good.

I’m born and raised in the municipality of Powassan, splitting my time between Powassan and Trout Creek, and I currently reside in Trout Creek. I’ve played in this rink (we call it the "barn") my whole life. My grandfather, Phillip Odrowski, helped build the arena and worked as its manager back in the day, so I have family ties to it, in addition to my own.

The arena is also well known for former NHL player Gerry Odrowski, who is from this town and still lives here. I’ve had the privilege of playing with and against him in the Trout Creek Old Timers hockey league over the years when he still played.

There's even a display case with memorabilia of his, including his old skates, right when you walk into the rink. Trout Creek lives and breathes hockey, skating, and all community events. Each year, the arena hosts numerous tournaments for minor hockey, and it’s home to the annual Trout Creek Carnival, which

GNA loves seeing pictures of your travels and sharing pictures of local establishments. This picture is of Dorothy HopsonReynard of Kearney sporting her Fetterleys Garage Tshirt while playing Bingo. ( keeping her skills up while vacationing in Sarasota Florida) a well deserved holiday for Dorothy, she is a volunteer extraordinaire!

Dorothy told us, ‘I thought I'd miss Hunters Bay BINGO but here I am at the Bearded Clam, Dabbers Up!’

we are set to celebrate for the 50th time this year. We have a men’s league twice a week and Old Timers hockey twice a week as well. We also support the Powassan Family Hockey Tournament, provide ice for minor hockey practices, and host teams from North Bay, Astorville, and Powassan. The booster club puts on free public skating every Sunday afternoon.

This town may be small, but we absolutely love rallying together to support everyone and our community, especially when it involves hockey. Generations of families still play on this ice together, whether it's weekly or annually. I knew if I got this initiative going, we’d quickly get tons of support. I know small towns like ours tend to help in any way they can. For example, my girlfriend, Emily Oldreive, immediately jumped on board to figure out how it all works and how it's scored. She even made her own posters using clips from the Hockeyville site to showcase how the process works, how it’s judged, and created a QR code to make it easy for people to scan and visit the Hockeyville page.

Trevor Madge also created a Facebook page dedicated to the Trout Creek Community Centre Hockeyville campaign. He’s reached out to the municipality, businesses, and even the media to help promote this effort. I’d also like to recognize my long-time friend Jacob Wilkinson, who recently started his own blog, Maple Leaf Chronicle, where he writes about the Leafs and posts up-to-date stories about them. He wrote a great piece about the arena, where he plays every year in men’s league and tournaments. His blog

has really gained traction and helped put our story out to the public.

How it Works: You nominate your arena, and anyone can share a story (worth 10 points).

You can submit up to 5 photos per person (3 points per photo). 1 note per person (worth 1 point). Reactions are capped at 15 reactions per person, per arena (1 point for each reaction). You can like pictures and stories as much as you want, but only 15 per person will count for points. Stories are worth 80% of the total score and will be read by a panel of judges prior to the announcement of the Top 4 Finalists. The rest adds up to 20%, so stories or video submissions are highly encouraged. The nomination Rally runs from January 1st - March 2nd. Judging is from March 3rd - March 15th. The Top 4 Finalists announcement is on March 15th.

National voting is from April 4th at 9 am Eastern to April 5th at 5 pm Eastern. The final announcement of the winner will be on April 5th after all the votes are counted.

Great piece of history along with community spirit from Travis. So come on Trout Creek or anyone who has gone to events there and share your story to help our town get a much deserved helping hand so we can serve our community for years to come!

Plus....having a safe place to run to in an Emergency would be a bonus too....dontchaknow!

Go to hockeyville.kraftheinz.com and share your story about the Trout Creek Communtiy Centre!

Whooooooooo!!!!! Let’s Go!!!!!!

Lizards can self-amputate their tails for protection. It grows back after a few months.

NON PROFIT THRIFT STORES-

“thrifting for the greater good” Be sure to check out these hidden gems in our area, not only are there some amazing ‘one of a kind’ finds but the money donated from these shops that are run by volunteers from the community, help the community! When you are considering donating your gently used goods, please think of these wonderful shops!

Insert logo BURK’S FALLS - ALMAGUIN DONATION AND THRIFT STORE – 205 ONTARIO STREET, 705-382-3553 , located on the lower level of the Emporium and actually located on Yonge Street, featuring donations from gently used clothing to small appliances and some furniture. Donations go back to the community. OPEN YEAR ROUND KATRINE – 350 DOE LAKE ROAD- KATRINE UNITED CHURCH THRIFT SHOP is located in the lower level of The United Church.

This amazingly clean and organized thrift shoppe is fully stocked with everything

that you need for this cooler fall season!!

Lots of clothing, small appliances and treasures! Proceeds to the Katrine United Church! Thankyou everyone for your ongoing support! OPEN WED 10AM-2PM, AND SATURDAY 9AM-1PM OPEN YEAR ROUND. PARRY SOUND – “MARY STREET BOUTIQUE” 24 MARY STREET - Located downstairs in the basement of St James United Church... It's not new it has been in existence for more than 50 year.. It was started by the ladies from the local churches trying to help struggling families.. The goal remains the same today and continues to be run by volunteers from 5 local churches and the money raised goes back into the local community.. The boutique carry's gently used clothing for the whole family.... Baby item .25cents, Children 4 and up $1.00 and most adult clothing starts at $1.50. A winter coats will run you $3 ,, Haberdashery meaning shoes, purses, belts, gloves and hats are the best bargain in town,,, OPEN MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY 11AM-1PM We welcome donations that can be dropped off in our bins located in the parking lots side door at 24 Mary St. Between the hours of 9am and 8pm.. Please Haberdashery and clothing items only. PLEASE Do not leave household items as we have no place to keep them.

OPEN MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY 11AM-1PM PARRY SOUND - SALVATION ARMY STORE – 82 Joseph St, – OPEN – Monday-Friday 10am-3:30pm, Saturday 10am- 4 pm=

CLOSED SUNDAY. POWASSAN- GRACE HOUSE- 250 CLARK - 705-728-2813 - Did you know we have a used clothing store at 250 Clark? It is a wonderful day to shop local and buy some recycled goods! Stop in today at Grace House Powassan from 9-1pm. Please use the west door to access the store. OPEN TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY 9AM1PM. OPEN YEAR ROUND POWASSAN – RESCUED TREASURES 510 MAIN STREET, 705-724-2059 IS IN THE MIDST OF RELOCATING AND HOPES TO BE IN THEIR NEW STOREFRONT BY MARCH 1ST! WE WILL KEEP YOU POSTED! SOUTH RIVER – SOUTH RIVER FREE STORE – 131 OTTAWA AVENUE SOUTH -The ACS (Free Store) is currently accepting clothing at this time. Please drop off on Wednesday and Thursdays between 12-4pm. Drop off address is 131 Ottawa Ave South River ON P0A 1X0 PLEASE SUPPORT THE SOUTH RIVER FREE STORE! The (free) clothing closet in South River has reopened at the old Chalmers United Church beside the public school. Hours are Wednesdays & Thursdays 12pm-4pm incise anyone needs anything but most specifically if you have clothing to donate, the pickings are slim at the moment. They’re only accepting clothing right now, no household goods.

overflowing with household wares, winter coats and clothing! Stop in if you’re looking for something or to browse through! The Women's Own Resource Centre encourages you to “SHARE THE WARMTH THIS WINTER” WORC is STILL collecting warm winter outerwear for our Annual Warm Winter Clothing Exchange KEEP OUR COMMUNITY WARM THIS WINTER DONATE WINTER CLOTHING! We are accepting new or gently used winter clothing for children, men and women. The following items are needed: boots, snow pants, winter coats, hats, scarves, mitts and any warm winter clothing. Donations will provide assistance to local individuals or families in need.

Donations can be dropped off at our office Monday-Thursday from 105 Ottawa Avenue in South River DO YOU KNOW OF ANY NON-PROFIT THRIFT STORES? WE WOULD LOVE TO INCLUDE THEM IN OUR LISTING!

SOUTH RIVER WOMENS OWN RESOURCE CENTRE -105 OTTAWA AVENUE- WOMEN’S ONLY RESOURCE CENTRE INVITES YOU TO DROP BY! Our Free Donation Centre is

Elwood Edwards did the voice for the AOL sound files (i.e. “You’ve got Mail!”).

Great North Arrow

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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Burk’s Falls Ryerson & Armour News

ARBF LANDFILL HOURS WINTER (September 1st - April 30th): Thursday - Monday Open 11am - 5pm / Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays SUMMER (May 1st - August 31st): Thursday Monday Open 10am - 5pm / Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays CLOSED ON HOLIDAYS: New Years Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day -705-382-3332 Ext. 112 landfil@armourtownship.ca New Garbage Tags Coming Soon – Important Information - The Village of Burk's Falls would like to inform all residents that new garbage tags will be mailed out within the month of December. Please be advised that as of January 1st, 2025, the current garbage tags will no longer be accepted for curbside pick-up.

Key Reminders: The new garbage tags will be valid starting January 1st, 2025 to December 31st, 2025. Garbage tags are only for curbside pick-up and will not be accepted at the Landfill.

Ensure that you use the new tags for all curbside garbage collection beginning in January.

UPDATE: Due to the Canada Post strike, 2025 garbage tags are available for pick-up at the Village Office.

Calling all vendors! - Join us at the Burk's Falls Winter Carnival on February 16th! We're hosting a vibrant marketplace upstairs at the Armour, Ryerson, and Burk's Falls Memorial Arena from 11am to 3pm. If you’re a vendor looking to showcase your products or services, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved in a fun, community-focused event! Spaces are limited, so don't wait—sign up today!

NEW STORE COMING TO TOWN! - The Owl & the Moon. Opening this summer in Burk's Falls.

A space for women in the community to make meaningful connections. Monthly workshops and guest speakers, a retail section with holistic products focusing on women's health and selfcare, and a gathering place featuring herbal teas, smoothies and snacks for hormone health.

To be put on our email list to receive more information, please send an email to theowlthemoon@gmail.com.

FUN IN DANCE! The Space Upstairs- Wed. Thurs. and Saturday in 2025- For kids who love to move, dance, sing and pretend, Dance Basics is a great gift idea! With creativity and physicality, a high priority, students will gain body awareness, fine and gross motor skills, turn taking and sharing, and some basic musical knowledge while having fun. NEW! Low-Ratio Class for 3-6 year old's "Pre-school Dance Basics" Wednesdays - 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. or regular class size on Saturdays - 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. "Junior" Dance Basics (4-7 years old) Wednesdays - 4:30 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Town of Kearney, Ontario is also hosting our classes on Thursdays! Check out their website! This class will focus on creativity, physicality, body awareness, working with others in small groups, and developing some basic dance skills. Students will gain confidence and see the benefits of working towards a goal.

While encouraging listening skills, students will also be encouraged to share their own ideas when appropriate, to make their own dance ideas come to life. https://www.jillianpeever. com/classes FEBRUARY 1ST, – ARBF MONTHLY BINGO Mark your calendars! DOORS OPEN AT 5:30pm - MINI GAMES START AT 6:30pm - REGULAR GAMES TO FOLLOW Minimum 2 strip purchase to play , Monthly Special Game worth $100.00 ,All proceeds are going to support the fair, other events and activities hosted by the ARBF. BREAK OPEN , BALLS TICKETS ARE BACK! YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $200.00 CASH MONEY -NO OUTSIDE - FOOD OR DRINKS - KITCHEN IS OPEN -HOT DOGS , CHIPS, POP, WATER, , COFFEE AND TEA - ARBF- MONTHLY BINGO BURK'S FALLS ARENA KARL CROZIER ROOM FEBRUARY 8TH- 1-4PM- JAMBOREE! At the Katrine Community Centre - Performance by Marion Linton and Steve Marshall. Entry by donation at the door. Come out for an amazing performance and a great time!

CROOKED CREEK RANCH2025 PROGRAMS- Day Camps & Full Camps Available! CONTACT US! It's more than a ride.

It's a lifestyle.

CAMP NATURE HORSE Age 8 to 12- July 15, 16, 17 . / July 29, 30, 31 • / August 12, 13, 14, August 26, 27, 28 MINI CAMP - Age 4 to 7 -July 8, 9, 10/ / July 22, 23, 24 / August 5, 6, 7 August 19, 20, 21 CONTACT CROOKEDCR@OUTLOOK.COM TUESDAYS - Katrine Community Centre- Square Dancing every Tuesday at 7pm, $5 at the door.

THURSDAY NIGHTS 7PM- at the Katrine Community Centre – INDOOR CORNHOLE. $15 DROP IN FEE OR $120 FOR THE WHOLE SEASON! Feb 6th- April 24th. More info: www.armourtwosnhip.ca Katrine Community Centre is asking if anyone happens to have any hand weights kicking around and you are looking to find them a new home, they would love to have them. They are trying to keep their costs down for their fitness classes.

KATRINE COMMUNITY CENTRE - FITNESS CLASSES WITH AMANDA MASHINTER - REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.ARMOURTOWNSHIP.CA FITNESS CLASS SCHEDULE -MONDAY & WEDNESDAY -Total body class (changes with Amanda-9AM-9:45AM - $15 each week, weights, cardio, boxercise, boot camp circuit MONDAYS, WEDNESDAY 9:50-10:35AM -Total body stretch - $15.00 DROP IN FEE PER CLASS OR $50.00 PER MONTH UNLIMITED CLASSES MATS & BANDS WILL BE PROVIDED, WE HAVE SOME HAND WEIGHTS, BUT PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN IF YOU HAVE THEM TO GUARUNTEE YOU GET USE OF HAND WEIGHTS JANUARY 31ST - FEBRUARY 1ST - 8TH ANNUAL COPPERHEAD TOURNAMENT - BURKS FALLS ARENA AND SUNDRIDGE ARENA $825 PER TEAM - MENS DIVISION + WOMENS DIVISION 3-GAME GUARANTEE I CASH BAR & DANCE REGISTER NOW ! CONTACT DAVID FORDE AT SPARTANS@GMAIL.COM'

Great North Arrow

OR BY PHONE AT 1-705-494-00 FEBRUARY 4TH- Burk 's Falls Legion - SENIOR'S LUNCHEON - Please call the Legion directly after 2pm to reserve before Jan. 3 -(705) 382-3137 MARCH 1ST, – ARBF MONTHLY BINGO - Mark your calendars! DOORS OPEN AT 5:30pm - MINI GAMES START AT 6:30pm - REGULAR GAMES TO FOLLOW Minimum 2 strip purchase to play , Monthly Special Game worth $100.00 ,All proceeds are going to support the fair, other events and activities hosted by the ARBF.BREAK OPEN , BALLS TICKETS ARE BACK! YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $200.00 CASH MONEY -NO OUTSIDE - FOOD OR DRINKS - KITCHEN IS OPEN -HOT DOGS , CHIPS, POP, WATER, , COFFEE AND TEA - ARBF- MONTHLY BINGO BURK'S FALLS ARENA KARL CROZIER ROOM BURK’S FALLS AND DISTRICT FOOD BANK DONATIONS NEEDED WE ARE ACCEPTING CLEAN, GENTLY USED BAGS AND SMALL CARDBOARD BOXES. . DROP OFF TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS IOAM-12PM, MAIN DOOR . THANK YOU KATRINE UNITED CHURCH THRIFT SHOP IS OPEN and is fully re-stocked with everything that you need for the new year and winter season!! Lots of clothing, small appliances and treasures! Proceeds to the Katrine United Church! Thankyou everyone for your ongoing support!

KATRINE Leisure Club has Bid Euchre every Tuesday afternoons from 1:30 - 4ish followed by a light snack.

PLEASE VISIT www.armourtownship.ca Fundraiser for Armour Rec 2025 kids programs and our Dolly Pardon Reading Program.

Square dancing is held on Tuesday evenings at 7pm downstairs. Couples dancing will follow at 9pm. Come drop in Tuesdays at 7pm at the Katrine Community Centre.

Reminder to Cat Owners – By-Law 17-2020 We would like to remind all residents of the Village about the provisions of By-law 17-2020, Section 4, regarding the care and management of cats.

As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and harmonious environment for all, the following rules apply to cat owners within the Village: Cats Must Not Run at Large: All cat owners are required to keep their cats under control at all times. Cats should not be allowed to roam freely or run at large within the Village. Respect Private Property: Whether on a leash or not, cats should not trespass on private property.

Please be mindful of your neighbors and ensure your cat does not wander onto other people's land. These measures are in place to protect both pets and wildlife, as well as to maintain positive relationships within our community. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our Village a safe and enjoyable place for all residents.

By-Law 17-2020 Care and Control of Animals BURK’S FALLS ARMY CADETS ARE RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS! Do you have a child that is 12-18 that is looking to join in? This program is 100 % free and a great opportunity to learn new skills.

BURK’S FALLS AND DISTRICT FOOD BANK DONATIONS NEEDED WE ARE ACCEPTING CLEAN, GENTLY USED BAGS AND SMALL CARDBOARD BOXES. DROP OFF TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS IOAM-12PM, MAIN DOOR THANK YOU FROZEN MEAL DELIVERY! MEALS ARE $7.00 & CONSIST OF MAIN COURSE & DESSERT "DELIVERED EVERY MONDAY - ELIGIBLE PERSONS INCLUDE: - SENIORS 65+ -THOSE WHO ARE TERMINALLY/CHRONICALLY ILL - THOSE WITH A DEVELOPMENT DISABILITY - THOSE RECENTLY DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL (I.E. POST SURGERY) - EAST PARRY SOUND Support Services - FOR MORE INFO & TO ORDER - CONTACT CSS @ 705-724-6028 Almaguin Donation store is now taking donations Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm. WE prefer not to accept donations on Saturdays, as they are super busy and it is hard to help our lovey customers while sorting through a lot of things. We do understand some can only donate on a Saturday - so just call or message us and we can make arrangements for you to drop off your items.

BURK’S FALLS DONATION CENTRE WINTER HOURS -CLOSED Tuesday and OPEN Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 to 4:00. Donations times are 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Wednesday to Friday and Saturday by appointment only.

THE BURK’S FALLS CAFÉ –WE are OPEN and back to regular hours! Hours 9-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. 9-3pm Saturday & Sunday 9am-2pm. CLOSED WEDNESDAYS ALWAYS UNIQUE FINDS! Check out Green’s Liquidators! Monday, Thursday, Friday. 11am 5pm and Saturday 11am -3pm SEWING CLUBS @ YOUR LIBRARY! Wednesdays 5-7pm and 1st Saturday of the month.

Please call the library to register!

Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances ! FREE Drop-in... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. - Burk's Falls Arena - Wednesdays at 9:30 am FALL PREVENTION CLASSES FOR SENIORS! FREE! Classes are offered every Wednesday at 9:30 am at the ARBF arena upstairs. No registration required , Just show up and have some laughter and fun friendship!

Public Skating at Armour, Ryerson & Burk's Falls Memorial Arena! Lace up your skates for public skating sessions at the Armour, Ryerson & Burk's Falls Memorial Arena! Whether you're looking to glide across the ice with family, practice your hockey moves, or just enjoy some fun exercise, there's something for everyone. Check out our schedule and come make some memories on the ice this season. We look forward to seeing you there.

NOW UNTIL SUNDAY APRIL 6th SUNDAYS - Family and Public Skate: Ipm-3pm (last day April 6th) FRIDAYS - Public Skate - all ages: 7pm-9pm (last day March 21st) CANCELLED DATE: FRIDAY JANUARY 10TH SATURDAY NIGHTS - Public Skate: 6pm-8pm, February 1st, & March 1st - ADULTS $3.50 CHILDREN $2.50 FAMILY (4+) $10.00 PARENTS AND TOTS - Tuesdays: 2pm-3pm Thursdays: - ADULTS $3.00 CHILDREN $2.00 ADULT SKATING - Mondays: 10am-11:30am Fridays: Ipm-2:30pm - ADULTS $3.50 FACILITY RENTALS 705-382-3811 - arena@

Switzerland is the only country with a square flag.

Fun Facts, Canada: The Whiskey Wars

with Dog On A Root - jim Young, LORING, ON

When U.S President Donald Trump made an offer to purchase Greenland, he was told in no uncertain terms by both Greenland and Denmark that Greenland was not for sale. (Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.)

When asked if he would consider attempting to take Greenland by force, Trump admitted he would not rule it out.

Donald Trump, a convicted felon, does not like to take “No” for an answer. He has a track record of lying, cheating and using force if necessary to get his own way whether it’s in his family life, his business life or his political life - even if it means breaking the law.

In fact, that’s exactly what has caused some of Trump’s many legal woes, leading to him being declared liable for repulsive acts such as sexual abuse for which he was fined millions of dollars.

Greenland has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark since 1814 but that will be considered of little consequence to Trump who has no respect for the laws of his own country, much less the laws and treaties of other countries.

So the question remains “Will Trump attempt to take Greenland by force?”

Or will Trump take a lesson from Canada on how to properly wage a gentleman’s war with Denmark to come to a peaceful resolution that is amicable to all those concerned?

Not many people are even aware that a war between Canada and Denmark took place from 1984 to 2022.

Hans Island is an uninhabited island in the Northern Part of Nares Strait that separates Ellesmere Island (Canada) from Greenland (Denmark). It lies halfway between the two islands. burksfalls.ca Snowmobiling Reminders for Winter Fun in Burk’s Falls Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity in Ontario, and if you're hitting the trails, it's important to follow safety and legal guidelines. Under by-law 18-2006, snowmobiles are prohibited from being driven on sidewalks or pedestrian footbridges within the Village of Burk’s Falls. Before you head out, make sure you have a valid driver’s license or Motorized Snow Vehicle Operator’s License (MSVOL), proof of snowmobile ownership and insurance, and a valid Snowmobile Trail Permit. Always wear an approved helmet, check trail conditions, and ride on the right side of the trail. Respect private property—never ride without the landowner’s permission—and adjust your speed according to weather and trail conditions. Remember, on roadways with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, snowmobiles are limited to 20 km/h; on roads with speed limits over 50 km/h, the limit is 50 km/h. For trail maps and more information, visit the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (www.ofsc.on.ca) and the Almaguin District Snowmobile Club (https://www.nnta.ca/almaguin-district-snowmobile-club).

Did you know? The top three causes of fatal snowmobile collisions are speeding, impaired driving, and carelessness. Stay safe and enjoy the trails!

SENIOR OF THE YEAR NOMINATION! NOMINATE A SENIOR WHO: -SHOWS LEADERSHIP -CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY -EXHIBITS KINDNESS, INTEGRITY, AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS -IS A ROLE MODEL TO THEIR PEERS. SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS: -SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION IN PERSON AT THE VILLAGE OFFICE OR BY EMAIL TO RECREATION@BURKSFALLS.CA -DEADLINE FEBRUARY 28TH, 2025 -NOMINATION FORMS AVAILABLE IN PERSON AT THE VILLAGE OFFICE, LEGION, FELL HOLMES, SENIOR CENTRE, AND THE MANOR OR ONLINE ON THE VILLAGE OF BURK'S FALLS FACEBOOK PAGE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON MARCH 7TH AND CELEBRATED AT THE MAYOR'S SENIOR TEA .

JANUARY DATES FOR SERVICE ON THE GO ONTARIO: Join us on the following dates for

in-person services at The Armour, Ryerson, and Burk's Falls Memorial Arena Thursday, January 23rd | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Thursday, January 30th | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Winter Snow Clearing in Burk’s Falls The Village of Burk’s Falls is committed to keeping roads and sidewalks safe during winter weather, following the standards set out in the Winter Operations Plan and

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

Canada’s claim to the island began in 1880 when they purchased it as part of a larger purchase of land from The Hudson’s Bay Company. Denmark however, argued that Hans Island was vital to their indigenous populations for fishing.

In December of 1973 Denmark and Canada signed an agreement to resolve the dispute at a “later” date.

Then, in 1984 Canadian Soldiers, without provocation, visited Hans Island, planted a Canadian Flag and left a bottle of Canadian Whiskey with the flag.

Such an act of aggression was not about to be tolerated by Denmark who immediately sent the Danish Minister of Greenland Affairs to Hans Island to retaliate. Upon his arrival at Hans Island the Minister quickly removed the Canadian Flag and drank the Canadian Whiskey. He left in its place, a Danish Flag along with a bottle of Schnapps and a letter stating, “Welcome to the Danish Island.”

And the war was on with the two countries , both founding members of NATO, periodically visiting Hans Island, removing the other country’s flag and planting their own, after which they would drink the liquor left by their antagonist and replacing it with a bottle of their own as a gesture of goodwill towards their adversarial warring nation.

Finally, in June of 2022 the Canadian and Danish governments settled on a border across the island recognizing half of Hans Island would belong to the Canadian Territory of Nunavut and the other half would come under the control of Denmark’s territory of Greenland.

For the first time, both Denmark and Canada shared their border with more than one other country.

Denmark who had previously shared a border only with Germany and Canada who had previously shared a border only with the U.S., now shared a border with each other as well.

Just prior to the settlement of the Canada/Denmark war, Russia had invaded the Ukraine and it was hoped the resolution of the Canadian/Danish War would stand as a symbolic example to the rest of the world that land disputes can be resolved peacefully. Sadly that has not come to fruition.

The Parliament of Denmark ratified the resolution on December 19, 2023 and the Canadian/Danish War had officially come to an end.

It has been rumoured that when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued an official apology for the war, the Queen of Denmark, Margrethe II replied that she was just “happy” it was over.

If only all wars could be fought in such a gentlemanly manner and be resolved with a similar peaceful resolution, what a wonderful world this would be.

- 30 To read more of jim’s articles, visit www. dogonaroot.com Municipal Minimum Standards for Municipal Highways. Snow clearing will prioritize major roads, ensuring a minimum width of 5.0 meters for through lanes. Primary roads will be cleared within 24 hours of snow accumulation reaching 10 cm, while secondary roads and sidewalks will be addressed based on severity and timeframes outlined in the service standards. Snow will be removed from business areas where space is limited, and regular winter patrolling will monitor conditions to identify areas needing attention. In cases of ice formation, de-icing materials will be promptly applied to restore safe conditions. The Village aims to ensure clear, passable roads and sidewalks throughout the winter season, with the goal of reducing snow depths to 8 cm or less on sidewalks within 48 hours.

ARBF PUBLIC LIBRARY ARBF PUBLIC LIBRARY - ‘A Visit Will Get You Thinking’ Burk's Falls Armour & Ryerson Union Public Library, 39 Copeland Street, Burk's Falls ON, P0A 1C0 Tel/Fax: 705-382-3327 burksfallslibrary@hotmail.com Do you have ideas for programs or events? Would you like to volunteer your time to lead a workshop, seminar or children's activity? Drop us a line through email, social media, or a good old-fashioned phone call. We're always open to new ideas.

FEBRUARY 14TH- 12 PM-2PM- YOU'RE INVITED TO: THE VALENTINE'S DAY TEA – The Land Of Lakes Grade 8 students are hosting a Valentine’s Day Tea. Open to the community and school families. We will also be holding a silent auction. BE SURE TO COME AND (CHECK IT OUT! All proceeds go towards the end of the Year Grade 8 Trip!

LAND OF LAKES PUBLIC SCHOOL, BURKS FALLS - $5.00 ADMISSION INCLUDES TEA/ COFFEE AND DESSERT -Thank you for your support, we hope to see you there!

Weekly Programs: ABC STORYTIME – TUESDAYS 10:30 AM AGES 0-5 Bring your little ones for lively stories, songs, and interactive activities that support early literacy. Enjoy crafts and games Burk’s Falls Continued on next page.

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Burk’s Falls Continued ... that help develop your child's creativity and motor skills. It’s a great way to introduce your child to the world of books and learning in a playful, welcoming environment.

GAME ON – WEDNESDAYS 4PM-6PM The perfect way to spend your after-school time! Challenge your friends! There's something for everyone. Bring your competitive spirit and creativity—it's a great opportunity to unwind, have fun, and connect with friends in a relaxed, energetic environment. Don’t miss out on the fun— see you there!

ZINES with ANNE-MARIE – THURSDAYS 3:30PM- RETURNS IN FEBRUARY Dive into the world of creative expression!

Zines are small, DIY magazines where you can share your art, writing, and ideas. Bring your unique projects to life, explore your creativity, and learn something new!

CHESS CLUB – ALL AGES – THRUSDAYS 4:30PM The Chess Club is open to all ages and skill levels! No matter you level, it's a great place to learn, improve your skills, and challenge yourself. Meet fellow chess enthusiasts, enjoy friendly matches, and have fun while sharpening your strategy and critical thinking.

WHAT IS THE ARBF BOOK CLUB READING NOW? Reading: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus A delight for readers of Where'd You Go, Bernadette, this blockbuster debut set in 1960s California features the singular voice of Elizabeth Zott, a scientist whose career takes a detour when she becomes the star of a beloved TV cooking show. Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman.

In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it's the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans, the lonely, brilliant, Nobel Prize–nominated grudge holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results.

Like science, though, life is unpredictable.

Which is why a few years later Eizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother but also the reluctant star of America's most beloved cooking show, Supper at Six. Elizabeth's unusual approach to cooking ("combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride") proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because, as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn't just teaching women how to cook. She's daring them to change the status quo. Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant and studded with a dazzling cast of supporting characters, Lessons in Chemistry is as original and vibrant as its protagonist.

BOOK CLUB! COMMON MISBELIEFSA BOOK CLUB IS FOR ACADEMICS - The only prerequisite is that you enjoy reading!

IS A BIG COMMITTMENT — Don't get the current book read? NO problem, come anyway and hear what others have to say about it. Maybe you might want to read it later.

YOU HAVE TO COME EVERY MONTH — Come whenever you can!

YOU HAVE TO BE FEMALE - Everyone is welcome!

YOU HAVE TO BE RETIRED - It would be great to hear from people of different generations.

YOU WILL LOVE EVERY BOOK WE READ Does not ever happen! Person might absolutely love the current book and person B cannot stomach finishing it... this makes for great discussions!

Come out and give the Burk's Falls Library Book Club a try!!WHY NOT JOIN US? WE meet every third Monday! Our next read is: The Hanging of Angelique by Afua Cooper.

BURK’S FALLS LEGION BRANCH # 405 The Burk’s Falls Legion needs volunteers to help us continue to bring all the great events and more to our community. You don’t have to be a member to be part of a nonprofit like the Legion to support and give back to our past and current Veterans, seniors and community.

Our Dart League is so much fun! Burk's Falls Legion SUNDAY DARTS -2 pm -$5/ week-7 game. Please call Dawn -705-3806628 - End of season cash tor high scores • door prizes • pot luck - FRIDAY NIGHT FISH AND CHIPS! Don’t enjoy fish? We also have chicken fingers and chips!. Every Friday from 4-7pm. Large portions, great prices! $15, including tax!

Please call ahead to pre-order at 705-3823137 after 2:00pm ,Eat in or take out . This has become such a wonderful event that we ask that you please make a reservation or call ahead so that we don’t run out!

FEBRUARY 4TH - Burk 's Falls Legion SENIOR'S LUNCHEON - (705) 382-3137 Seniors Luncheon will be held at the Legion Branch 405, first Tuesday of each month, Lunch begins at noon. Open to all resi-

dents of East Parry Sound District age 65+.

Please call the legion directly to reserve.

If you reserve, please try your best to make it! RESERVE YOUR LUNCH Please call the Legion directly to reserve (705) 382-3137 BURK’S FALLS LEGION IN A NUT SHELL! Fish N Chips AND Chicken Fingers ONLY $15! - Every Friday 4-7pm Call (705) 382-3137 after 2 pm to reserve - Meat Draw 2 pm Every 2nd and 4th Saturday $2 regular draw (5 draws) $3 bonus draw (box of meat, must be entered in every regular draw) BINGO - Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday Doors Open at 6:30 pm Games start at 7 pm FREE SNOOKER & SHUFFLEBOARD Every day We are sorry to hear that DiCasa Food Service will not be reopening, they have new adventures planned. you will be missed, we wish you well in your new endeavours.

GREAT NEWS FOR ALL OF YOU SWEET TOOTHS OUT THERE! The Village Sweets will be opening soon in the Village, a perfect little candy shoppe with a retro feel!

Stay tune!

Half of all bank robberies take place on a Friday.

LOGAN WATT COMPLETES BI-LAW OFFICER CO-OP

(in this picture,R to L; By-Law Enforcement Officer Jason Newman, AHSS C0-op Student, Logan Watt, By-Law Enforcement Officer , Bryan Austin) As we say good-bye to our co-op student, Logan, we’d like to congratulate him on the completion of the by-law enforcement officer co-op program and wish him the very best in his career pursuits. The Township of Armour is proud to offer a unique opportunity to integrate work experience with studies while students can learn more about themselves and the future direction of a career. Co-op truly helps students prepare for their future by enabling them to make decisions based on experiences they gained themselves — and that's powerful.

We will miss you, Logan! Almaguin Highlands Near North District School Board

VENDORS AND CRAFT SALE EVENTS FEBRUARY 16TH- 11AM-3PM- Calling all vendors! - Join us at the Burk's Falls Winter Carnival on February 16th! We're hosting a vibrant marketplace upstairs at the Armour, Ryerson, and Burk's Falls Memorial Arena from 11am to 3pm. If you’re a vendor looking to showcase your products or services, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved in a fun, community-focused event! Spaces are limited, so don't wait—sign up today!

MAY 3, 2025- 9AM TO 3PM - IT'S NOT JUST A CRAFT SALE PINE GLEN PUBLIC SCHOOL SPRING CRAFT SHOW & MARKET - IT'S FUN FOR EVERYONE! OVER 40 LOCAL VENDORS! - The Parent Council of Pine Glen PS (Huntsville) is excited to announce our annual Spring Craft Show!

The craft show will be taking place at Pine Glen on Saturday May 3rd from 9am-3pm.

We are currently looking for vendors! If interested in participating or for information please follow the link to the google form! https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCOijdWRL3saWNNX6KXhls1mMdxdFleK3q72lPDp9HeXGGdw/viewform MAY 10TH- 10AM-2PM- Emsdale Agricultural Society Presents- Mother’s Day Market !

Free tea available for the special lady in your life. Concession available for purchase.

Looking for Vendors . emsdaleagriculturalsociety.com

Magnetawan Grill & Grocery Monday -8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Tuesday - 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Wednesday - 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Thursday - 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Friday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday - 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sunday - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

.The space between your eyebrows is called a glabella

A SOUTHERN VIEW The Best Defence ....

Stephen Lehman

My dear wife and I were watching the news a while back and, as usual, President -elect (at the time) Donald Trump figured in one of the main stories. I don't remember what the story was about but as usual it caused me to chuckle.

"What's so funny about that?" my very significant other asked me in her worried voice. "That's going to cause a lot of discomfort in Canada." I knew that she was being sincere in her question because normally she knows better than to ask me for an answer that is probably going to bore her to tears with one of my long winded explanations.

"I apologize", I replied. "I just can't help myself. Whenever I see him speaking about many, many things, a lot of his delivery just strikes me as humourous." As they say in the TV courtroom dramas, though, she had opened the door so I proceeded to drag her through.

"Take this 'joke' about making Canada the 51st State. I don't know if he is serious or not but I don't really care what his intentions are because we have already seen on the world stage how such an idea could possibly turn out. For example, Putin thought he was just going to run a special operation into Ukraine for a week or two and then the Ukrainians would just capitulate and he could ride into Kyiv in his luxury limo, basking in the adulation of all his adoring citizens as he was being chauffeured by. Three years later, how has that worked out for him? Does President Trump have the same opinion of us that Putin had of the Ukrainians, that he, Donald, could just exercise some 'economic force', vis-a-vas tariffs, for a week or two and we would just 'lay down our arms and welcome him with open arms'? I don't know of any thesaurus that says that nice, as in nice Canadians, is synonymous with stupid."

"It could definitely be worse though", I continued in an attempt to sound less pessimistic about our situation. "We could be Greenland. I have read much speculation recently concerning the possibility of military or economic coercion of the country not being ruled out under the 'deja vu' guise of it being, and I quote, ''For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity.'' Wasn't that, essentially, the same lame justification that George W. Bush used as an excuse for invading Iraq, National Security, and that he had to pre-empt the possible use of WMDs by Saddam Hussein?

And don't even get me started on President Trump's less than friendly suggestions towards Mexico. Or Panama."

"And now I've been reading", I continued since her eyes had not yet glazed over, "that President Trump is thinking of declaring the supposed laxness of our northern border security also as a national emergency that has to be counteracted by the use of punitive tariffs. A few weeks ago, the former President of South Korea decided that he wanted to declare a constitutionally questionable national emergency in his country. A few hours later, nation wide protests convinced him to rescind that decree but it was too late and he was, within a matter of days, impeached and ordered to remove himself from office. And just this morning, (January 15), I saw that security forces had gotten past the sycophants who had massed outside his residence in an attempt to prevent him from being arrested for other crimes yet to be addressed.

Are you seeing any parallels here yet, any historical or recent lessons to wishfully be learned by other democratically elected persons?" I knew that she did but I respectfully asked anyways so as to give her the opportunity to say 'yes' and 'so lets move on'. Which she did.

That was too bad because she often times has solid arguments that force me

to reassess my own cranky opinions. Like the time a few weeks ago when President Trump first declared that Canada had to increase its border security so as to stop all the fentanyl flowing into his country from the north. Her immediate response, once I had quit loudly expressing my own opinion as to the validity of fentanyl 'flowing' south from Canada into the U.S., was to suggest, just like Mr. Chretien did, that our politicians tell Mr. Trump to first stop the flow of guns heading north from his country into ours. Then we could worry about the trickle of drugs moving south.

And if she had expressed any interest whatsoever in listening to me ramble on, I could have explained to her how I didn't find President Trumps threats about leaving NATO, plus other isolationist type rhetoric, particularly innovative. Back in the late 1930's, early 1940's, the United States had practiced a policy then of minding its own business and not getting involved in global affairs but we all know how that idea bombed on December 7, 1941.

As I pondered that last argument, it suddenly occurred to me that, instead of wasting our time, (and money for needless 'mandate' elections), by 'educating' some Governors about Canada's importance to them and threatening others with .69C dollar for 1.00U.S dollar retaliations, our provincial and federal representatives should just say 'Fine' and do what President Trump's policy pronouncements, at least as I interpret them, will threaten to do - isolate his country. Instead of making titfor-tat type moves of defence, our leaders should be on the offence, travelling around the world meeting with real leaders and drumming up global support for a universal boycott of the U.S. Instead of letting some of the rhetoric coming out of Washington divide us, the world should come together and teach Washington the lesson about unintended consequences. How long do you think President Trump would last if, sure, he gets all manufacturing moved back to the States but nobody bought any U.S. goods? He goes around boasting that the U.S. doesn't need anything from Canada while simultaneously assuming that the rest of the world needs stuff from the U.S. Wouldn't it be hilarious if he discovered that we didn't?

Now I'm not arguing that it wouldn't be painful, for everybody. I love Florida orange juice as much as the next person.

But if I knew that abstaining from it for a while would metaphorically be tantamount to giving the finger to the U.S., well, that would just make it taste that much sweeter when 'they' finally felt our pain.

Of course, just because I personally interpret a lot of what Mr. Trump says as humourous shouldn't be taken as a suggestion whatsoever that it is. In fact, I believe that anything he does say should be absolutely treated as serious. I may be a nice Canadian but I'm not so stupid as to believe that if the U.S. did indeed wish to physically invade us, we would last even as long as what Putin initially assumed the Ukrainians would. The U.S. may have 'lost' a lot of the wars it waged in places like Vietnam and Afghanistan but I don't think relatively recent history should be used as an example upon which to predict future results. And if the U.S. is still a member of NATO, whose side would the other NATO member nations be obligated to defend? I don't think the framers of the original pact for multi-national cooperation ever envisioned that possible eventuality.

As a last thought - a gentle hint being made to me by the quiet snoring sound emanating from the other couch - I saw references recently on Truth Social about Wayne Gretzky being urged by an associate of his, Donald Trump, to run for the Prime Ministership of Canada. It brought to my mind a line within the eulogy Wayne paid to his deceased father, Walter, a while ago and I quote; "We’d be a way better world if there were so many more people like my dad”. I'd be curious to know if that is the thought that runs through Wayne's mind when he mingles with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago.

LAND OWNERS – YOU ARE APPRECIATED!

KEARNEY: FORK ON MAIN To all the landowners who have OFSC trails running thru your property: THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! We appreciate you signing the landowner agreements that continues to allow sledders to use the trails. We are beyond grateful that you are supporting all the small businesses in our town. From restaurants, gas stations, dealerships, and all the lodging; the snowmobile season keeps us in business and provides jobs to our community. Without your permission to use your land, we might not be around, so we just wanted to express our thanks for your land use! Also, shout out to all the volunteers of Highland Rovers and Almaguin District Snowmobile Clubs for getting all those MOUs signed.

The hours you all put in to keep sledding alive are so very much appreciated. Thank you!

4244 Hwy 520, Magnetawan, ON, Canada, Ontario (705) 387-0001

Great North Arrow

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

A10

More than 90% of the Nicaraguan people are Roman Catholic.

The Flag of Canada

When the Circus Came to Town

By Richard Dowson Did You Know – Canada does not have specific laws governing the flying of the Canada Flag. Instead, in true Canadian fashion, we have ‘established practices, conventions and protocol’ for flying our National Flag.

One is: “The Canadian Flag should be higher than all other flags” when flown in Canada.

So, when more than one flag is being flown at a location, the Canadian Flag should be flown highest.

This isn’t always the case. Maybe it should be.

This is the ‘order of precedence’ for the flying of Provincial Flags together.

Kearney FEBRUARY 8TH- 9AM - 3PM- - Rickward's Annual Antique Snowmobile Show. Come out for the fun and enjoy the memories! At Rickward's Polaris & Small Motors FEBRUARY 7TH AND 8TH, Kearney Dog Sled Races , the biggest dog sled race in Ontario ,also a IFSS accredited world cup event , is happening Feb7&8, The race committee is looking for vendors for that weekend. A vendor spot is free with a 50.00 silent auction donation .If interested in being a vendor , head on over to the Kearney Dog Sled website and have a look . https://kearneydogsledraces.ca/vendor-registration/ DANCE CLASSES WITH JILLIAN FROM THE SPACE UPSTAIRS BEING HELD IN KEARNEYThere are still some spots left to register your little ones in our kids dance programming beginning this Thursday! Please visit our website for more information:THURSDAY EVENINGS -BEGINNING -JANUARY 16TH 2025 -$60/8 CLASSES - AGES 4-6 - AGES 7-11 MUST REGISTER FOR 8 WEEK MINIMUM -DROP IN CLASSES NOT AVAILABLE -For more information visit www.townofkearney.ca KEARNEY SENIORS CLUB - Who are we? "Kearney Seniors Club is located in Kearney at the Kearney Community Centre.

We have a new Facebook page The Kearney Seniors Club that you can join for info.

Our mandate is to provide social activities and information to any one over the age of 50 in our area which includes Kearney, Emsdale, Novar and the surrounding areas such as Perry Township, Burks Falls and Armour Township. We meet on the last Thursday of the month at 1:30 pm in the Kearney Seniors Room. Guests are always welcome but if you wish to be a member there is a $10. fee. Our activities in the past have including participating in Kearney fairs and regattas but also bus trips to different events, card games and Christmas dinners.

This year we plan on adding quilting, cornball and more.

Fetterley's OPEN MONDAY TO THURSDAY 7:30AM-6PM FRIDAY 7:30AM-6PM. SATURDAY 8AM-7PM , SUNDAY 8AM-6PM EMPTIES CLOSE AT 4PM - FOR YOUR DIESEL, REGULAR AND PREMIUM ETHANOL FREE FUEL and so much more. Don’t see it? Just ask!

IN A FUEL EMERGENCY CALL HEATHER 705571-0533 JOIN US FOR FITNESS CLASSES! KEARNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE - All Levels Fitness. Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:45a.m - 9:30a.m. Active Stretching Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:45a.m - 10:30a.m $15 drop in fee/class - $45/calendar month. For membership information please visit the Town of Kearney's website: www. townofkearney.ca *Completed registration forms and payment must be made prior to class.

Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances ! FREE Dropin... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. Kearney Community Centre Wednesdays at 11:30 am Kearney & Area Public Library Library Membership- A library membership is free to residents and taxpayers of the Town of Kearney and, effective January 1, 2008, Perry Township. Children under 16 are required to have their memberships signed by a parent or guardian. If you don’t live in Kearney or Perry Township, you can join for an annual fee of $10.00.

Email: kearneylibrary@hotmail.ca Phone: 705-636-5849 - https://kearney. olsn.ca/- 8 Main Street, P.O. Box 38 Kearney, ON (705) 636-7752 - Fax: (705) 636-0527- admin@townofkearney.ca Hours of operation - Monday to Friday8:30 AM – 4:30 PM KEARNEY LEGION BRANCH # 276 with Lisa Lahn & Dorothy Reynard Hopson Kearney Legion Branch 276 FEBRUARY 1ST - MEAT DRAW From 2-4:30 - 5 draws $1 a ticket come out and try and win a piece of quality meat FEBRUARY 9TH – FROM 6PM- Kearney Legion Branch 276 is having a SUPER BOWL PARTY! As we get closer to the date we will let you a know what we will be doing at the party. IT’S SUPER BOWL SUNDAY!!!!

FEBRUARY 15TH- Mega Meat Draw – STARTING AT 2PM Stock up for Winter ! We are having 16 draws-Every half hour there will be three draws, the last draw will consist Of a SUPER BOX Of EVERY PIECE OF MEAT WON IN THE FIRST 16 DRAWS! WIN WIN WIN! Kearney Legion Branch 276 TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Chance to win a choice a 2025 Sportsman Ranger Premium 1000 or 2025 RZR Trail S 900 Side by Side Raffle . Tickets are $20 each or 3 for $40 on sale at the Kearney Legion, Rickwards Polaris, Fetterleys Garage, Fork on Main Kearney Legion Branch '276 REMINDS YOU THAT WENDY'S KITCHEN IS NOW OPEN! Hours of operation will be Thursday 4pm-9pm - Friday 4pm- 9pm Sat 9am till ? -Sunday 9am-2pm - Specials will be Thursday $1 Wings , Friday Fish and Chips EUCHRE EVERY TUESDAY 10am-Noon Everyone welcome to join in the fun!

Every Thursday - Join in on a fun morning of conversation and meeting new friends.

Beginning 10am – noon TUESDAY'S REGULAR EUCHRE I0am THURSDAY'S BID EUCHRE - New players always welcome!

FEBRUARY 22ND -1PM-5PM – Join us for an Appreciation & Fundraiser BBQ FOR Highland Rovers Snowmobile Club. Dress warm! Its in our outside lot! BBQ hamburgers, hotdogs, sausages - With musical guest Carter Pharoah -1:30pm - 3:30pm - FORK« ON MAIN 108 Main street, Kearney, ON

DID YOU KNOW? FORK ON MAIN HAS live music every Saturday night 7-9PM

IN RECOGNITION FOR 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS

(in this picture: Heather Pateman receiving award for 50 years in business) Fetterleys received recognition this from CFIB(Canadian Federation of Independent Business) this morning. We have been members for 50 years. Almost as long as CFIB has been around.

I was talking to Betty Caldwell and Gloria Wilson the other day and they were doing an interview of sorts, talking about old history and our little town. They talked about how bustling it was, interesting events going on and the fact that when an event went on… if you were anybody, you were there. The circus was one big event you didn’t want to miss! The circus arrived in town by way of the old Railway and always landed in, full kit and caboodle down at our old train station. The old station is now part of Boyes construction and Ron Russell asked me if I had any idea what some of these ancient parts were that he collected in preparation of building a house nearby. The parts appeared old relics of railway car wheels, from a once bustling and busy railway station.

A longtime resident, Mrs. Roseborough and relative to Betty often talked about the large excitement the circus that would come to town would bring. The Ringling Brothers made their way through and set up here in town. It all began at the station and seemed to come up to the main street of Burk’s Falls.

For many years an annual visit by either The King of the Hobo’s – or a Continued next page.

Talented street type busker that stuffed himself into a tiny box. I met the King of the Hobo’s on occasion, he was all dressed up in a rag style outfit, put together of many pieces and colours and he was dressed head to toe in Brightly coloured ribbons and bells. He was quite the entertainer!

But, the most interesting to me was a very old thin, East Indian Chap. His skin was old, weathered and very wrinkled.

It resembled old cow hide that a saddle was made from. His long hair, was in dirty dreadlocks, his garment, a long flowing gauzy white caftan robe and wrap around pants. His gnarled old fingers and twisted long toes in the well-worn leather sandals completed the look. He pulled a wagon behind him, with a small wooden box tied down to it. The box was mysterious, it was not large or heavy and it would have been a cubic foot. He called out and announced , that at six o’clock, on the mark, he was going to climb into the tiny box.

Well, of course being kids we couldn’t wait to rush home and spread the word . And as we told many people the whole town gathered. Every kid, every Adult… the town was packed and nearing six o’clock, this very strange Indian man with the poor English announced once again that he was going to fit his entire body into the said box. He was well over six feet tall, and although not much more than leather and bones it was still doubtful.

The crowds went wild! They even began

to heckle somewhat and then the betting started. Some were small change, and as the excitement grew, the bets became higher and the pockets deeper. It took a very risky man to bet that he could fit into the box and close the lid…

THE OLD INDIAN CHAP CHANTED, SHUDDERED AND SHOOK. He appeared to bow down, to pray, to worship the sun or Allah and without a second thought, HE CRAMMED HIMSELF INTO THE BOX …….

I really don’t know how men lost their weeks wages that night, as a kid I was just in awe, my jaw dropped to the ground .

The next mysterious man that came to town was ‘THE STRONGEST MAN IN THE WORLD’ As kids this was magical, the first thing he did was come by the school and wanted to know who was the ‘biggest, toughest bully’ in the school. Well, Blake Ball Jr., whose Father was the only Police Constable in that time was well known and we all shouted out his name. We pointed him out so that the STRONGMAN found him, and he told Blake to ‘TURN AROUND!’ well sir, he grabbed young Blake by the belt that held his trousers up. WITH HIS TEETH! When us kids saw him going for Blake with his mouth open we thought he just might eat him! Or at least bite him in half! With Blake still in his teeth, he whipped him up and to his head, grabbed him and tossed him up and over . Poor young Blake was flailing and screaming the whole time. He put him back down and we all stood in awe. We even felt kinda sorry for young Blake, he had the Bully shaken out of him for sure!

And then the Strongman announced, ‘ At six o’clock tonight, I am going to pull the fire truck up the town hill. From Purdie’s Garage to the top of the hill. Well, the fire Department had the truck sittin’ at Purdies waiting for this big guy . Once again the huge crowd and all of the town people gathered to watch this event. The Big Man put the rope around his waist and then up into his mouth where he grasped it with his teeth. He turned around backwards and he proceeded to pull that heavy fire truck up the hill to the Drug Store.

Nope, no TV, no computers, or cell phones …. If you were lucky you had a worn out lacrosse stick and a decent baseball. (If you hadn’t lost it when you tossed it through someone’s window!)

This was our entertainment back then. … somewhere there is always a story……

Editor’s Note: While my Father was telling me this story and I was typing it, (because it is usually handwritten on a paper towel or an old cardboard box when he gives

it to me) Dorothy and I had tears rolling down our faces, we were laughing so hard. Dorothy said, ‘Oh come on Abby, this didn’t really happen…..’ and of course my Dad assured us that it was all truth and nothing but. Last Christmas I bought Dad the movie ‘Big fish’. He hasn’t watched it yet, but he must. It reminds me so much of my Dad and all of these stories that my Dad has told over the years, and he proudly says, ‘no one can dispute me, they are either long gone, or they can’t remember ! That is the great thing with age!’

Well Dad, just as it ends in the movie ‘Big Fish’, when the sad day comes that you leave this earth for a better place and more adventures, I had better have a very big area set aside for your Funeral…. I am expecting the King of the Hobo’s, the Indian box Man and the STRONGMAN to show up, along with many of your other amazing characters! And I haven’t even mentioned the tight rope walker, the dwarf and the mountain man!

HAVE YOU VISITED MIRROR BAY MEAT MARKET? They are a wholesale shop that specializes in BULK frozen grocery items and solutions to make your own fabulous meals. They have weekly specials and case sales too! Check them out, 1734, Hwy 518 E, Kearney.

Butterflies range in size from a tiny 1/8 inch to a huge almost 12 inches.

OPEN

Monday to Saturday : 8:30am to 6pm Sunday : 12pm to 4pm 11518 ON-522, Port Loring, ON P0H 1Y0 (705) 757-2910 Great North Arrow

MON-SAT 8AM-7PM SUNDAY 8-6PM

LCBO

In-Store Fresh Bakery, Deli, Meat Dept, LCBO Outlet

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

Super TV Bingo tickets NOW Available in Store!

18 PETER STREET, NOVAR 705-789-1777

SATELLITE STORE

BOTTLE RETURN

OPEN SAT & SUN ONLY 10AM-4PM

A11

1 Montreal Ave., South River, Ontario 705-386-0606

Monday to Saturday : 6am to 9pm Sunday : 7am to 9pm Convenience Store / Lottery Retailer / Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

AREA SENIORS CLUBS

185 Ontario Street Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0

Humans use a total of 72 different muscles in speech.

PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB

With Mary Ann Brunelle TWO UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB! Come join us on Saturday February 8th, 2025 at 1:00 pm FOR A FUN ACTIVE GAMES DAY -Lawn Bowling, Darts, Corn Hole and Golf Putting Rotation There is no fee for this event for members EVERYONE WELCOME! $5.00 for non-members

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

Come join us on Saturday February 15th, 2025 at 1:00 pm , FOR OUR COUNTRY JAM SESSION, Enjoy Country Music, Singing and Dancing

Great North Arrow is $5.00 per person Small .Tea, towns & proud ... connecting communities 1 Admission coffee & water is included with entry fee. Page Pop

is available for $1.00 per can. A potluck snack will also be served A black line with a diamond AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Conveniently located downtown Parry Sound at 80 James Street and we are inviting new members to join. We welcome those 50 years young and older, and our Club membership is only $30 per year.

Club Membership for ages 50 + is $30 per year, due the 1 st January.

Country Jam Session 3rd Saturday of each month from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm - All musicians, singers and dancers are welcome to participate. $5.00 admission buffet lunch is included.

All activities are held at the Club with the exception of Aqua Fitness Pool (billiards) Downstairs Monday, Thursday and Friday- 9:00 am – 11:45 am and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Darts Wednesday at 1:30 pm (Sept to June only) Bid Euchre Cards Monday at 1:00 pm and Friday at 7:00 pm Regular Euchre Cards Friday at 1:00 pm Cribbage Cards Thursday at 1:00 pm Jam Session (Music & Singing; Dancing) Tuesday from 10:00 am to 11:45 am No admission fee for members in good standing.

Tai Chi Practice Tuesdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ($3 for paid members) Aqua Fitness The Grand Tappattoo Resort Monday (low impact) from 10:00 am to 11:30 am- Must be a member to participate. Fees: $6.00 80 James Street, Parry Sound, Ont., 705-746-7186

STEPPING DOWN

Michelle Budiwski

Trudeau is stepping down!!! It had to happen. It should have happened a year ago but coulda, woulda, shoulda changes nothing. Here we are Now the question is....

Will the NDP and Bloc support the government long enough to survive a non-confidence vote and position a new leader before a new election? In my opinion it is in their own best interest as it is best for all of Canada. A Conservative majority government would devastate the progress this country has made on so many fronts as they threaten to undo dental care, child care, environmental protections, senior supports and attack the rights of women and the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. If you think I'm overreacting to the impact the Pollievre's Trump-like policies could have on

Great North Arrow

our country, just remember that I spoke out against Trump and warned that women's reproductive rights were under attack with his agenda of appointing pro-life justices to the Supreme Court and suddenly.... Roe vs Wade was a thing of the past. Trudeau has to go as leader as his unpopularity has become a liability to the country but that does not mean that the Liberals are not still the best option we have in Canada ... At the moment. There is room for the NSP to step up with sound central policies that protect both our social programs AND the economy.

They have an opportunity to force a minority government (which I always feel is best regardless of who is in power).... But will they? ****UPDATE*** I just heard on CBC live that the government will be prorogued (I'm recess) until March 24 so there will be no non-confidence vote until at least then.

So we will be seeing a quick short term leadership race for the Liberals

KEARNEY SENIORS CLUB Who are we? "Kearney Seniors Club is located in Kearney at the Kearney Community Centre. We have a new Facebook page The Kearney Seniors Club that you can join for info. Our mandate is to provide social activities and information to any one over the age of 50 in our area which includes Kearney, Emsdale, Novar and the surrounding areas such as Perry Township, Burks Falls and Armour Township. We meet on the last Thursday of the month at 1:30 pm in the Kearney Seniors Room. Guests are always welcome but if you wish to be a member there is a $10. fee. Our activities in the past have including participating in Kearney fairs and regattas but also bus trips to different events, card games and Christmas dinners. This year we plan on adding quilting, cornball and more.

SPRUCEDALE SENIORS FRIENDSHIP CLUB SPRUCEDALE SENIORS !!! There is a saying "It Takes A Village" , shared responsibility together we can have unity in strength and community support. We are asking our people that attend our events, Ladies Euchre, Mixed Euchre, Dabber Bingo and meetings to bring an item for the Food Bank. For more information contact Lynda Howse 705-685-7938/705-571-4797 LADIES EUCHRE - MONDAY 1:00 PM DABBER BINGO - MONDAY AT 7:00 PM (DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 PM) MIXED EUCHRE - THURSDAY 7:00 PM AT THE COMMUNITY CENTRE SPRUCEDALE !!!! Stay On Your Feet Class – FREE Every Wednesday at 1:30 pm. No need to register – just show up and have fun. At the Sprucedale Community Centre.

Seniors Luncheon program, every 2nd Tuesday of the month. Please call 705-7246028/1-888-521-0000 to reserve your spot. $10.00/person.

PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB 80 James Street, Parry Sound, Ont., 705746-7186 TWO UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB! Come join us on Saturday February 8th, 2025 at 1:00 pm FOR A FUN ACTIVE GAMES DAY -Lawn Bowling, Darts, Corn Hole and Golf Putting Rotation - There is no fee for this event for members EVERYONE WELCOME! $5.00 for non-members Come join us on Saturday February 15th, 2025 at 1:00 pm , FOR OUR COUNTRY JAM SESSION, Enjoy Country Music, Singing and Dancing EVERYONE IS WELCOME Admission is $5.00 per person .Tea, coffee & water is included with entry fee. Pop is available for $1.00 per can. A potluck snack will also be served Conveniently located downtown Parry Sound at 80 James Street and we are inviting new members to join. We welcome those 50 years young and older, and our Club membership is only $30 per year.

Club Membership for ages 50 + is $30 per year, due the 1 st January.

Country Jam Session 3rd Saturday of each month from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm - All musicians, singers and dancers are welcome to participate. $5.00 admission buffet lunch is included.

All activities are held at the Club with the exception of Aqua Fitness Pool (billiards) Downstairs Monday, Thursday and Friday- 9:00 am – 11:45 am and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Darts Wednesday at 1:30 pm (Sept to June only) Bid Euchre Cards Monday at 1:00 pm and Friday at 7:00 pm Regular Euchre Cards Friday at 1:00 pm Cribbage Cards Thursday at 1:00 pm Jam Session (Music & Singing; Dancing) Tuesday from 10:00 am to 11:45 am No admission fee for members in good standing.

Tai Chi Practice Tuesdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ($3 for paid members) Aqua Fitness The Grand Tappattoo Resort Monday (low impact) from 10:00 am to 11:30 am- Must be a member to participate. Fees: $6.00 MAGNETWAN FRIENDSHIP CLUB Albert Street Magnetawan –email: magnetawanseniorsclub@ gmail.com Members are welcome to join if you or your spouse/partner are 55+. Annual dues are $25 per person. Many activities at the club are open to everyone.

Monthly meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month at 1 pm.

FEBRUARY 2ND – BINGO $10 FOR 3 CARDS/10 GAMES, come share the wealth!

Snacks and pop for sale.

FEBRUARY 5TH- 9:30AM -CREATIVE CRAFTERS FEBRUARY 7TH - Friday - Euchre at 7 pm JANUARY 20th- Monday -friendship Mon-

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

day 1 pm FEBRUARY 12TH- – Wednesday – Creative Crafters at 9:30am FEBRUARY 14TH - Friday- Euchre at 7pm FEBRUARY 16TH – BINGO $10 FOR 3 CARDS/10 GAMES, come share the wealth!

Snacks and pop for sale.

FEBRUARY 25TH - Tuesday- Seniors Lunch, eat in or take out FEBRUARY 19TH- Wednesday - Creative Crafters at 9:30 am FEBRUARY 21ST - Friday - Euchre at 7 pm FEBRUARY 26 TH- Wednesday - Creative Crafters at 9:30 am FEBRUARY 28TH- Friday - Euchre at 7 pm SOUTH RIVER FRIENDLY CIRCLE CLUB: WEEKLY ACTIVITIES MONDAYS: • YOGA 10:00AM. CONTACT Peggy parent 705-386-0093.

• BRIDGE GROUP 1:00 PM, CONTACT Hazel Horr-,ibrook 705-334-0590 • CRIBBAGE 6:30 PM CONTACT Andy Parent 705-386-0093 TUESDAYS: • MEMBERS' POTLUCK LUNCHEON 12 NOON, 4TH Tuesday of the month. No reservations required. Bring a meat, or vegetable or dessert or other dish to share. Help with set-up and clean-up is appreciated WEDNESDAYS: • SEWING, 'CRAFT GROUP AM INTO AFTERNOON, CONTACT Pearl Ivens 705-3867434, first to third Wednesday • SOUTH RIVER FOOT CARE CLINIC 9:00AM4:00PM, SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH. call Sarah at 705-471-1707 for an appointment.

• ALMAGUIN QUILTING GROUP 10:00 AM, 4th 'Wednesday only, CONTACT Sandra Train, 705-386-0275 • CHAIR YOGA IO:OOAM. CONTACT Susan Arnold 705492-8505 • SHUFFLEBOARD 1:OOPM, CONTACT Harry smith 705-383-9745 • WELLNESS CLINICS 3:00 PM First Wednesday of the month, Drop In • SOUTH RIVER STORY TELLING PROJECT 6:30 PM. Being launched by New Adventures in Sound Art (NASA), who are providing an opportunity to aged 55+ SENIORS from the region to share their stories with friends and supporters, Supported by funds from the Government of Canada New Horizons for Seniors program.

THURSDAYS • DAISY CHAIN (DROP IN GROUP FOR WOMEN - September to June) 10:00AM, CONTACT Linda Clarke 705-386-2333 • BRIDGE 1:00PM. CONTACT Hazel Hornibrook 705-384-0590 FRIDAYS: • STAY ON YOUR FEET DROP IN EXERCISE GROUP FOR SENIORS, 11AM-, FACILITATOR: Debbie Drumm (SPONSORED BY THE EAST PARRY SOUND COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES) - FREE TO SENIORS • EUCHRE pm, Drop In, casual, fun card games.

AND IF ARE INTERESTED IN STARTING A GROUP FOR OTHER ACTIVITIES such as POOL OR SNOOKER, DARTS. CARDS, OR ANY OTHER IDEAS. PLEASE CONTACT PEGGY PARENT AT 705-492-3981 WE WOULD LOVE TO SHARE INFORMATION ABOUT ALL OF THE SENIORS GROUPS AND CLUBS IN OUR AREAS! PLEASE SEND YOUR INFORMATION TO ME AT GREATNORTHARROW@GMAIL.COM SENIORS LUNCHES – LET’S DO LUNCH! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances! SENIOR’S LUNCHEONS - $10 PER PERSON. JOIN US FOR A HOT WHOLESOME MEAL CFOCUSSING ON NOURISHMENT AND SOCIALIZTION BURK’S FALLS – RCL LEGION BRANCH 405 – 1ST Tuesday of each month CALLANDER -RCL LEGION BRANCH 445 – 2nd Thursday of each month EMSDALE – Emsdale Community CentreLast Thursday of each month KEARNEY –RCL LEGION BRANCH 276 - 3rd Tuesday of each month MAGNETAWAN – Magnetawan Friendship Centre – 4th Tuesday of each Month POWASSAN – RCL LEGION 453 – 1ST Friday of each month RESTOULE-RCL LEGION 638- last Wednesday of each month SOUTH RIVER –RCL LEGION BRANCH 390 – 2nd Tuesday of each month SPRUCEDALE – Sprucedale Community Centre – 2nd Tuesday of each month SUNDRIDGE –RCL LEGION 467 – last Wednesday of each month RSVP at least one week in advance for the luncheons you plan to attend. 705-7246028/ 1-888-521-0000. Lunch at noon at all locations. All residents of East parry Sound district (age 65 plus) are welcome to attend our programs at any location.

Note: Time and Location of Luncheons are subject to change. SPONSORED BY EAST PARRY SOUND COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES.

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Loring & Restoule District PORT LORING LEGION BRANCH 415 ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION -BINGO - EVERY TUESDAY EVENING STARTS AT 7:30 FROZEN MEAL DELIVERY! MEALS ARE $7.00 & CONSIST OF MAIN COURSE & DESSERT - MEALS ARE $7.00 & CONSIST OF MAIN COURSE & DESSERT - MINIMUM OF 5 MEALS IS REQUIRED FOR DELIVERY (DELIVERED EVERY OTHER WEEK) - PAYMENT IS DUE UPON DELIVERY (CASH/CHEQUE) OR IN ADVANCE BY E-TRANSFER (PLEASE GIVE EXACT AMOUNT AS VOLUNTEER DOES NOT CARRY CASH) "DELIVERED EVERY MONDAY - ELIGIBLE PERSONS INCLUDE: - SENIORS 65+ -THOSE WHO ARE TERMINALLY/CHRONICALLY ILL - THOSE WITH A DEVELOPMENT DISABILITY - THOSE RECENTLY DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL (I.E. POST SURGERY) - EAST PARRY SOUND Support Services - FOR MORE INFO & TO ORDER - CONTACT CSS @ 705-724-6028 DUMP HOURS – GOLDEN VALLEY, TUESDAY 11AM-3PM, THURSDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY- 7:30AM-11::30AM NORTH ROAD- TUESDAY 5-9PM – THURSDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY, 1-6PM – Line dancing ( Monday ) at the Argyle Community Centre ...6:30 All are welcome !!! Bring indoor shoes and water.

Arnstein Gospel Hall Youth Night Ball Hockey is Back!!*** Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm @ Arnstein Rink Bring your stick, energy and water bottles! See you there!

Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances ! FREE Dropin... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. Port Loring Royal Canadian Legion Branch 415 - Wednesdays at 11 am line dancing....Monday nights at 6:30 at the Argyle Community Centre. Don't forget your indoor shoes and your water bottle Bingo is back at the Legion, 7:30 Tuesday nights, Euchre is Thursday night at 7, Darts Friday at 7 and Cribbage Saturdays at 1pm. Seniors Luncheon is the second Tuesday of every month. The Empties Return Depot is located in the C-Can in the parking lot of the Legion and is open Wednesday and Saturday 11-2. Why not donate those empties back to the Legion?

St. Andrew’s United Church Tuesday morning ‘Coffee and Tunes’ hour at 10:00am.... accessible to everyone... and for anyone who wants to come out for a coffee, a chat, hear some tunes, or have a game of crib... Everyone is welcome and if you play an instrument and or sing... please feel welcome to do so. If you are a baker and want to bring some cookies or squares... yes!!! please bring some, Just another way we are hoping to meet our new residents, and reconnect with others.... Admission is free with a good will jar to help pay for coffee, cream etc.

The Food Bank is open the second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 111, located across from Buchanan’s Castle Building Centre in Port Loring.

FEBRUARY 11TH - TUESDAYS -2ND TUESDAY -RESTOULE – MONTHLV SENIOR FOOT CARE AT THE LEGION - CALL SARAH HARNOCK 705-471-1707 -TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT - $30 PER PERSON ARNSTEIN- Come on out to Tots and Toddlers Wednesday 10-11:30am Arnstein Gospel Hall We would love to make a coffee/tea for you moms, dads and carers and let the kids play! Come have fun with us! All welcome.

PORT LORING ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONLEGION BRANCH 415 Join us for some fun with family and friends!

Every Thursday - Bid Euchre 7pm Every Friday - Darts 7pm Every Saturday — Cribbage 1 pm Monday Jan 13 — "member meeting @ 7:00pm Tuesday Jan 14 — Senior Lunch @ 11:30am (Sheppards pie dinner with all the fixings) Every Wed — Empty Bottle Return 11 am2pm (Legion parking lot, say hi to Roxie, Gilles & Allan!)

COMMANDA – FEBRUARY 1ST -On the first Saturday of the month enjoy a years-long tradition at the Commanda Community Centre! pm to 11 pm Doors open at 7:30 Note the later start time for this month! Bring your instruments and join us for our Monthly Dance & Jam night! Country, blues, oldies and more!

Not a musician? Why not dust off your dancing shoes & get your dancing partner off the couch? Never been to our monthly social before? Picture a good old fashioned kitchen party, but with a dance floor! Be prepared for dancing, smiling, laughing, singing along and otherwise having a ton of fun! Bring your family & friends! There are soft drinks, water, coffee, & tea available for purchase! You are welcome to bring potluck snacks/desserts. This is an alcohol free event. Admission is free however donations are always appreciated! Your participation & donations keep our community centre operating. . *there is a piano and PA set up on site CRAFTERNOON SESSIONS at the Commanda Community Centre! Join us Sundays, 2-4pm! Come out and enjoy a coffee or tea and conversation. At our last event we had

Great North Arrow

a fantastic turn-out and so much fun! Bring your craft and meet some new neighbours!

Refreshments are available for a small donation.

Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances !

FREE Drop-in... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. Commanda - Commanda Community - Fridays at 10:00 am Stay On Your Feet Classes - Commanda Community Centre Fridays at l0 am – ll am.

All levels of ability welcome! Modifications can be made for everyone FREE: stay on Your Feet Classes - Fall prevention fitness No need to register - Just show up and nave fun!

East Parry Sound Community Support Services For inquires about the classes can CSS office - 705-724-6028 Call for makers, artists & vendors!!

Thank you! Over the past several weeks we asked for your feedback through a survey about winter markets at the CCC and you responded! We still need more information to plan this initiative. We’re asking local makers to let us know if you’re interested in participating in indoor winter markets. In order to hold these events, we need volunteers for set up, kitchen duty & volunteer bakers. Our volunteer coordinator is asking; if you are a vendor, would you be willing to bring along someone to volunteer?

YOGA THURSDAYS @ 6:30PM – 7:30PM – ALL SKILL LEVELS WELCOME - $10 PER PERSON - Skill Levels Welcome Commanda Community Centre 4009 Hwy 522 Commanda GOLDEN VALLEY – Winter Dump Hours GOLDEN VALLEY – Wednesday 7:30AM-11;30AM, Saturday 7:30AM-11;30AM NORTH ROAD -Wednesday 1-5pm, Saturday 1-5pm St. Andrew’s United Church Sunday Worship services at 10:30 am for the month of May. Everyone welcome. Experience a sense of community and belonging .

GOLDEN VALLEY- Monday Night Bid Euchre will be held at St. Paul’s United Church in Golden Valley.

RESTOULE It’s less than a 1 month till Valentine’s Day…. Get your tickets for Restoules Ms T’s Rustic Spoon Valentines Day Roast Beef dinner. $55 couple, includes dessert and champagne. Call 705-380-4085 or stop in for tickets! Coming this week….another Super Bowl party surprise….. AND this Fri our HOMEMADE CRUST Pizza combos will include a draw ticket for Super Bowl Sunday at Ms T’s. The list of prizes is growing….

Get a Pizza with Salad or Wings and 10% goes to the Restoule Fire Dept! Come and fill the boot…

RESTOULE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS ! NEEDED CONTACT US ! Hal (705) 840-6239 Olav (705) 493-3769 It's Pool and Euchre Night! Come on out! 7 pm to close! EVERY TUESDAY AT THE RESTOULE LEGION. KARATE AND JUJITSU - RESTOULE COMMUNITY CENTRE – FOR ALL AGES – BUILDS FOCUS, SELF CONFIDENCE – PHYSICAL FITNESS SELF DISCIPLINE, Regular classes Thursdays: Ages 7 to 12 - 5:30pm to 6:20pm - Ages 12 and up 6:30 to 8:00pm -$40 monthly fee Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances ! FREE Dropin... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. Restoule Community Centre Tuesdays at 10:00 am RESTOULE LEGION BRANCH 390 It's Pool and Euchre Night! Come on out! 7 pm to close! EVERY TUESDAY AT THE RESTOULE LEGION.Royal Canadian Legion Branch 639 Restoule SUNDAY DARTS 1 PM TO 5 PM. JOIN US! Friday Night at the Legion! A tradition for over 17 years. Come join us for Wings and Pizza, good friends and comradery.

Bottles of wine, to share with friends, for $18. Always a designated driver near by,

called life.

My oldest son enjoys farming and making maple syrup, my youngest son loves to get out fishing and work his trapline.

My daughter Shannon loves to look after living things; from hatching out unique poultry combos to propagating house plants. But her true passion is critters.

It’s a good thing Shannon lives in a big ole farmhouse because she currently calls 4 cats, two dogs, a house bunny and a blind chicken her housemates.

Two weeks ago, while on their way to the local landfill site, Shannon and her partner came upon three puppies in the middle of the road.

With help from another couple, they managed to collect the dogs and bring them home to safety. They were filthy and smelly and very cold.

Before Shannon even got back from the dump, she had a pretty good idea where the dogs had come from; earlier that week a post on Facebook had been circulating about 8 puppies needing a home. The owner couldn’t keep them and was offering them for free to good homes. It seemed like the dogs Shannon found and the ones in the post were one and the same.

Shannon approached the local person from where the post originated and was told a story she didn’t believe; the person had been breeding dogs for years but had become ill and couldn’t look after animals anymore. They’d given away the mother dog but still had the father and pups. They had, “No idea how the three pups got out.”

Taking matters into her own hands, Shannon sprang to action; within 12 hours she’d found homes for the three pups in her possession and two from the original house.

The authorities were contacted but all they did was shovel the persons walkway, bring firewood inside and, although the house was saturated in urine and feces, they determined that the dogs were being fed. No other action appeared to be taken.

Between Shannon, her partner and a few others, they managed to convince the original owner to release the three remaining pups.

Shannon had a two-part plan in place; find homes for the pups or she had transportation to a no-kill shelter in the Niagara region arranged with a friend of a friend by the following weekend.

Shannon was relentless in scrutinizing anyone from out of town that she didn’t know, rejecting a few people who wouldn’t answer her questions, but within 6 days had found homes for the remaining three pups!

Within a week Shannon found 8 puppies a new wonderful life!

They’ve since been given names, a very good bath and lots of love!

I’m proud of my daughter for her efforts in not only finding the dogs a loving home, but in recognizing her limitations for responsible pet ownership.

Though she would’ve loved to keep one of the pups, she knows an animal is a commitment to not just time and daily care, but a financial commitment as well.

Way to go Shannon, The Puppy Whisperer!

if need be! ALSO, if you are at the rink, and we are open, come on in to warm up and enjoy some FREE Hot Chocolate and Mulled Cider!

PUPPY LOVE

Confessions of a Reality TV Enthusiast

Michelle Budiwski

As a 50-year-old educated, well-read professional woman, I fully embrace the joys of reality TV— especially the 90 Day Fiancé universe. Do I believe it’s real? Absolutely not. Do I care?

Even less. Sometimes, after a long day of being a responsible adult, I just want to let my brain take a little vacation. There’s something truly fascinating about watching people willingly air their relationship chaos on international television. Even if only 10% of it is real, it’s still enough to make me cringe, laugh, and occasionally yell, “Oh honey, no!” at my screen. My personal fa-

vorite? 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way. The sheer disbelief on American contestants’ faces when they realize that, shockingly, the rest of the world doesn’t revolve around them is pure entertainment. The number of women who fly across the world to marry a man they met online, only to be shocked that cultural expectations actually exist (What do you mean I can't wear Daisy Dukes and a crop top in the middle East???) — it’s both predictable and endlessly amusing. So yes, I may read serious books and have deep conversations, but when it’s time to unwind, you’ll find me with a glass of wine ( but not in dry January), yelling at my TV as yet another contestant makes a life-altering decision based on three weeks of WhatsApp messages. Pure gold.

FREEZE YOUR PANTS OFF WEEK DIANA BRUSHEY PORT LORING: IT WAS A LITTLE ZIPPY! Monday January 20- The Temperature -28, without the windchill factor. BUT

It was ‘Happy Freeze Your Pants Off Week!’

We always make pants monuments to celebrate the coldest week lol. Anyone else want to join in the fun and post silly frozen stuff? In other years we have made whole pants families marching, PJ onesies waving, etc, which creeped out the Amazon folks when we were in Ottawa. I think this week it's cold enough to even make a full scarecrow using just frozen clothes.

(in this picture: Wanda Hill and Christine Gutman) Sundridge Food Bank would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to Wanda Hill from the Highlands players  for visiting our food bank today with a generous donation.

It was a pleasure seeing you today. Thank you so much for your kindness. Your donation will go a long way  

TAMARA BAIN My three children have very different tastes in how they get through this thing

Stoney Lake Variety Monday- Friday: 6 am–8 pm Saturday- 7am-8pm Sunday- 7am-7pm Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

82 Ontario St, Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 (705) 384-5253 A13

He Said / She Said...but Jim is always Wrong HAVE YOU EVER NOTICED THAT A WOMANS "I'LL BE READY IN 5 MINUTES AND A MANS 'I'LL BE HOME (N 5 MINUTES ARE EXACTLY THE SAME?

Cyndi: "l should have married the devil, he would make a better husband than you."

Jim: "They would have arrested you! Marriage between relatives is illegal in this country."

Q: What do two rednecks say after breaking up?

A: Lets just be cousins.

OK...Cyndi is really screwing with me now. She thinks its really funny to hide my stuff where I can't find it. Like putting my boots in the closet, my coat on a hanger and my keys on the key hook. Its not funny any more.

Two brothers, coincidently named Jim and John were discussing their married lives.

Although happily married to their wives, they admitted that there were arguments sometimes. John said, "I've made one great discovery. I know how to always have the last word."

"Wow! Said Jim, "how did you manage that?" "It's easy," replied John, "my last word is always 'Yes”, Dear.

Mill Bay Market

7113 HWY 534 / (705) 358-1796 Fresh meat produce deli and frozen food Restoule, Ontario Matt & Lori Great North Arrow

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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Burk’s Fall’s Cafe & Grill Monday-Tuesday-Thursday Friday /9-3pm Wednesday- Closed Saturday- Sunday-9-3pm

Non-dairy creamer is flammable.

KEEP VEGGIES FRESH

The best way to store peeled garlic and keep it nice is to place in a container filled with water, cover and refrigerate make sure use them up with in a couple weeks.

Keep your lettuce fresh for up to two weeks! the key is not to wash it until you are going to use it. Keep it wrapped in paper towel then add to a plastic bag and refrigerate.

REMOVE CLOUDINESS AND STAINS FROM GLASS TOP STOVE Step 1 –squirt some Dawn dishwashing liquid on the ceramic glass top stove, paying particular attention to the most prominent stains.

Step 2 – sprinkle baking soda all over the Dawn that you previously applied.

Step 3 – Citric acid to dissolve mineral stains - Grab a spray bottle of 2 tablespoons of citric acid powder mixed into hot water and spray it all over the baking soda and Dawn.

Step 4 – Spread the mixture to soften all over the ceramic glass top stove and let that sit for 20-30 Step 5 – Scrub your black glass top stove with a microfiber cloth or a sponge and rub the mixture into your stove top using a circular motion. If stains persist, use a Magic

eraser Step 6 – Wipe off all cleaning solutions until there are no suds or traces of baking soda left on your glass stove top.

Step 7 – Use a razor blade scraper to remove burnt on food or mineral deposits- use a razor blade scraper at a 45 degree angle to scrape them off.

Step 8 – Buff it up-Once you have wiped the ceramic glass stove top clean and removed all debris, use some newspapers to shine it upIf you still need to remove stubborn burn marks from the glass stove top, simply sprinkle more baking soda over them and spray with your citric acid mixture. Let sit another 10-15 minutes and repeat the process. – WASH AWAY WINE STAINS- No need to cry over spilled Cabernet, even if it’s all over your ivory pants or your favourite tale cloth. While that deep crimson may look scary, it’s fairly easy to make disappear.

First be sure to blot and rinse it promptly in cold water, Sponge the stain with white vinegar, and then rub in a little liquid laundry detergent before washing as usual.

LEFTOVER WINE Come on, who has leftover wine? 17. To save leftover wines, freeze them in ice cube trays. They can be used for any dish you would season with wine or can be also used in coolers.

EASY FRESH FRUIT SALAD DRESSING For an easy dressing for fruit salad, try a grated orange rind and orange juice added to sour cream.

"One of the great things about books is sometimes

The Michelin man is known as Mr. Bib. His name was Bibendum in the company’s first ads in 1896.

Looking for a Nursing Home

by Catharina Bowers

Part 1

We are an aging community in Whitestone, so how do the residents get there?

Insert stock photo (stock photo)

Did you know, that if you have a relative, or you yourself need to go into a nursing home, if you are a patient in the hospital, the social worker along with your family will select 5 homes that you would be happy in.

While you are in the hospital, they can’t discharge you, unless a family member says they will look after you. If you take the responsibility of agreeing to take the patient home, you will have the sole responsibility of looking after that person 24/7. Day and Night! Getting home care assistance is difficult and you get it on a first come first serve basis. In our area where the demographic is retirement age, 55 and over for the majority of people who live here, we all will require these services, and I don’t think there is enough staff or volunteers signed up to do the job adequately.

If the social worker and hospital staff suggest that you need 24 /7 nursing care and only a nursing home is able to provide this, it could be that someone from Brampton could be at the top of the list and next to get a place. Belvedere could be that one place. So even though Whitestone pays, and has an investment in the Belvedere building, doesn’t mean that if you live in the Whitestone area, you will get a bed at Belvedere.

We as a family have been dealing with this issue of selecting nursing homes for the past few weeks. You want your loved one as close as possible. We have a close relative who needs care, more than we can provide. Our home is not set up for poten-

tially 2 who need care and in wheelchairs.

I have looked after my MIL years ago after she had a stroke and brain surgery.

We do not realize that people who have had strokes or severe brain injuries or brain ailments because of a disease; those with brain issues need more care especially at night. The best care givers looking after a loved one are within a short period of time; sleep deprived and totally exhausted if they are not given some help or relief during the week.

Most of these patient can’t be left alone.

They wander at night, they wander out of the house, not always being properly dressed based on the 4 seasons. They get hungry, they want to cook, but forget how to do it. They become a danger to themselves and /or others. There are so many other issues as well.

Having had the experience of looking after a loved one, at the end of 5 and a half months, I was just about done in. We had a family meeting and we decided that MIL would go into a nursing home.

We are going through it at the moment with a relative who is from Whitestone originally, you need to also read the inspection reports when selecting the 5 nursing homes. If there is a waiting list of 88 ask yourself, why such a short list?

Others have a few hundred or more people

there are some fantastic pictures." -George W. Bush waiting. If there are reports of abuse, not looking after patients or neglect, bedsores, or other issues such as financial abuse, in their report, I would rather have the loved one farther away but in a location where the inspection reports are more favorable.

Two of the nursing homes in Parry Sound we suggested for our loved one, because I had never heard anything negative about them, they have been crossed off our short list because of shortage of staff, lack of training, inspection reports that reflect incidents that you wouldn’t want your loved one to go through. All reports are in the public record. You must do your due diligence. There are places with better reports, and more staff hence giving the loved one a better quality of life, especially if their quality of life isn’t that great to start with anymore.

Nursing Homes: I must say in defense of nursing homes. If I was young and healthy, I don’t know if I could do the job. I know I couldn’t clean a bedpan, especially for a stranger. I could do a lot, but when it comes to certain smells, I would be out of there. Hard to keep good employees.

But if you happen to have a great employee, treat them like gold. Covid changed everything.

Historically nursing homes demand long shifts from PSW or nurses and for some, the hours are a killer. If you happen to have a back injury and you have to help lift patients, or roll them over, you may need two to roll some people over, you could have a problem. Sometimes there is no back up staff. Or staff want a holiday or a personal day for an appointment. I have heard of staff being denied days off for important doctor’s appointments. Not a way to keep good staff.

The Patient: Those patients with mental health issues…many are more active at

night, they can’t sleep. Should there be a thunder storm watch out, those with dementia can be affected, and set off on it.

They can’t help it.

There are other residents who are terminally ill. There are so many things that can afflict us when we start to age. There are no guarantees, but I do know that none of us are getting out alive. So, if the last few years or months of our lives, we can live with a quality of life hopefully some dignity. With peace and quiet, with the care and understanding that we all need and deserve, then our last months for not only the resident can be meaningful, but also for his or her family as well. Then there is no fear of the unknown.

The Employee: The employee sometimes has to be a mind reader, a nurse, a lending ear, a diaper changer, a mom who feeds her child, and a wrestler, and a strong woman/man, and so much more.

The job isn’t easy and you need to be of a certain character. You either love the job or you hate it and can’t wait till 6 pm. You get yelled at, spat at, cursed at, pinched, bitten and hit. I must say in all fairness to the employers, it is hard to keep good employees, who come in on their shift, do the work and not complain. It can be a thankless job.

Now Whitestone, $42,850, returned to them from Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged. And now they are asking for it back. The rest of the story follows in Part 2.

If I were to return the money, I would with the caveat, that the money be used to train staff. I know that $42, 850 is not much, but it is better than nothing. The service to the community who houses residents who can not do for themselves can be a thankless job. But this is what Belvedere is doing?

Looking after these precious souls who can not look after themselves. This is how I would allocate it…!

But then we from Whitestone are often thought as the trouble makers anyways.

Let’s suggest something that all the patients will benefit from!

Catharina

Although modern images of India often show poverty and lack of development, India was the richest country on earth until the time of British invasion in the early 17th Century.

Hours: Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday

8 a.m.–9 p.m.

8 a.m.–9 p.m.

8 a.m.–9 p.m.

8 a.m.–8 p.m.

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Great North Arrow

60 Joseph St, Parry Sound, ON P2A 2G5 1 866-987-6453 Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

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Oh-Natur-Al-Eh! Part 4

Deb Bussey

I’m baaaackkk! Lol! I can see that my previous articles have sparked a few of our readers to submit in some of their triedand-true recipes! I am so glad you are doing this. I love that we can share ideas.

I am a strong believer in keeping it as natural as possible. We have all had moments in our lives when we have had to cave and pick up something quick. Don’t beat yourself up about it.

We have to do what’s best for us in the moment. Moderation is the key. Having a few gadgets and gizmos Great North Arrowdoes help make life a lot easier if you plan to stick to Oh-

Natur-Al-Eh. I don’t have all the equipment I would like on hand but I do have a few handy kitchen tools. I hate to admit it but some of them are almost 40 cough cough years old! Holy Moly! As long as they work

I’m good with it.

Part of my arsenal consists of an Oster Kitchen Centre food processor. It is not as fancy as the KitchenAids and the cord may be held together with black electrical tape oh and I may have broken both the glass bowls that it came with but hey....it still Whitman Jewellers is your trusted jewellery store in North Bay. Whitman works! I improvised with other bowls and Jewellers handles repairs and custom-created pieces on-site at their Shirreff although they are not a perfect fit it gets Avenue location, so you never have to worry about where your valuables are the job done. being sent. They are a third-generation family business deeply rooted in the My whisks, wooden spoons, mortar and community. Paul Forbes, a Certified Gemologist, is the owner of Whitman pedestal are well seasoned from years of use. I have had to replace my hand mixer Jewellers and specializes in examining and grading precious stones. With a and immersion blender but I had lots of certified Gemologist in-house, Whitman Jewellers provides appraisals for use from them over the years. insurance purposes or to ascertain the value of your treasured Some of my better purchases were the family heirloom.

Ninja Air Fryer, steam juicer and my Montel Williams blender! They make my life a lot easier that’s for sure. Just keep in mind that you don’t always need fancy equipment to get the job done. It may take a bit longer but you’ll get the same results.

Since it’s cold and flu season you may want to keep in mind a few helpful tips. Increase your Vitamin C, D3, K2 and don’t forget Zinc! A really good fish oil is awesome this time of year however, if you have an aversion to fish oil try Black Seed Oil. The Black Small towns Page 1 Seed Oil I take has Oregano Oil& in proud it so it’s... connecting communities a bit hot. Follow it with a bit of honey and you’re good to go. Remember that old saying....just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.?

Well....sugar/honey whatever does the trick.

I start my day with a fresh squeezed Ron Portugaise Paul Forbes lemon in hot water and a wee bit of Master Certified honey. Great for the immune system Goldsmith Gemologist as well as your liver! Try and get your Vitamin C from fresh fruit and veggies as much as possible.

Honey has always been an amazing healer. Great for sore throats. Mixing it with a hot beverage sooths and coats the throat. We are blessed with many apiaries 180 Shirreff Ave, North Bay, On; P1B 7K9 in our Almaguin Region. You can pick up

Servicing the Nipissing and Almaguin Regions for over 70 years.

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Life Styles

A Family Adrift: The Lepage Legacy Part II

By Jim Shedden

The story of the Lepage family and their connection to the commercial fishing industry along the Georgian Bay coast is one of love, resilience, and heartbreak. Bernie and Sandi Lepage embody the spirit of generations who built their lives on the water, guided by the rhythms of nature and the promise of a bountiful catch. But today, through no fault of their own, they stand witness to the collapse of the fishery—a tragedy that is both deeply personal and emblematic of a broader environmental crisis.

Years ago, the Great Lakes faced the sea lamprey invasion. These parasitic creatures are native to the American eastern seaboard (and parts of Europe and the Baltic); but natural riverine barriers prevented them from invading into the Great Lakes.

They latched onto fish like lake trout, often in multiples. Science and intervention eventually curbed their numbers, but the lamprey invasion was only the beginning.

In 1988, zebra mussels arrived, another unwelcome stowaway from foreign ships. These mussels, native to Eastern Europe, quickly established themselves in the Great Lakes, wreaking havoc on ecosystems by filtering water and altering food webs. And then came

something even worse—the quagga mussels.

Unlike their zebra cousins, quagga mussels thrive in both shallow and

deep waters. They now blanket the lakebeds of the Great Lakes, covering thousands of square miles.

Their relentless filtering has turned these once nutrient-rich waters into crystal-clear, sterile environments.

This might sound appealing at first glance, but it spells disaster for fish populations.

Lake trout and whitefish, two cornerstone species, depend on nutrient-rich waters for their young to survive. Fertilized eggs fall into cracks on the lakebed, where they hatch and feed on tiny crustaceans called zooplankton. But with the nutrients stripped from the water by mussels, zooplankton can’t thrive.

No zooplankton means no fingerlings, no fingerlings mean no adults, and no adults mean the fishery collapses.

There are 3 videos on YouTube titled “All Too Clear” that I urge

everyone to watch. I have attached the links to the videos. You can see first hand what these little nasties are up.

1 https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=udbk7olgZTw 2 https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=3GUv5bGuplQ 3 https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=F5W9rLYjBe8

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The scale of this problem is overwhelming. The invasive mussels have fundamentally altered the Great Lakes ecosystem, and while scientists are testing chemicals that might help, any large-scale solution would cost billions—and likely arrive too late for the Lepages and others like them.

Adding to their struggles is the response from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF).

Last week, Graydon Smith, Ontario’s MPP and Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, sent a letter to the Lepages (below) explaining the government’s position. He highlighted that whitefish season had been cut short to protect critical spawning areas, such as the Mary Ward Ledges off Meaford.

While protecting spawning grounds is essential, the brutal truth remains: the fish simply aren’t there anymore.

The “All Too Clear,” video’s document the devastating impact of invasive species on the Great Lakes, you will come to a grim conclusion: the fish are just not there. It does not matter where the MNRF sets their quotas; they will never be met.

So, the forecast does not look rosy for Bernie and Sandi or the other commercial netters who have given their lives to this industry. Personally, I feel something must be done for them. These families, who have worked the waters for generations, deserve more than just explanations—they deserve tangible support and action.

The Lepages’ story is a stark reminder of how environmental crises ripple through communities. As we grapple with the broader ecological challenges facing the Great Lakes,

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

we cannot afford to forget the human cost. The question now is not just how to save the fishery but how to support the people who depend on it.

This paper is read by 1800 subscribers from Michigan and 851 subscribers in Wisconsin. Actually, one of our writers is from Wisconsin. These areas are very relevant to what is going on. We share the same water.

One of my major concerns is what pleasure boaters and sports fisherman are doing. Do you know that it is law to clean the hull of your boat when it is pulled out of the water?

How about your bilge pumps and

hoses as well as your live wells.

It is so esy to go out on Georgian Bay fo the day of pleasure boating or fishing and then come home to Magnetawan and drop your boat off at the dock. Are you bringing in evasive muscles? My understanding is that there have been zebra muscles found in Ahmic Lake in the Magnetawan area. Can you imagine the damage that could be done if the muscles got into the Magnetawan River system? From Algonquin Park all the way down to the bay itself.

We have to be on guard.

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DUTCH HARMONY RANCH

Fresh produce and products from the farm. We are also a Masterfeeds and Purina dealer. Feed and supplies for all your animals and pets.

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Insects outnumber humans 100,000,000 to one.

Animal Tales

By Valerie & Morgan Dingman

Birding in a Southern Paradise

In December 2023 my husband Rick and I headed for Costa Rica to do an ecotour with an amazing biologist named Eugenio who organizes ecotours through his company Journey South. Ayo, as he is also called, is actually an ornithologist so this article will have an emphasis on the birds we saw in our the time there.

A friend of ours who had lived in Costa Rica off and on for the past 25 years put us in touch with Eugenio, whom we also met when he came to Canada the September before we flew there.

He visited our property here in Magnet-

awan for an afternoon and while walking around, identified plants, birds and animal tracks - we knew then that we were in great hands and that Ayo would be a superb guide! As timing of this trip was still quite recent post-COVID we wanted a private or semi private tour. Ayo had a second couple interested in going at the same time and we all agreed on similar priorities for the itinerary. We had said yes to all sorts of ecological excursions with a big focus on bird watching. Rick and I stressed that we were total amateurs. Basically we could identify the species of birds that came to our feeders regularly and maybe some other Canadian ones. Bill and Susan had been bird watching for years but considered themselves amateurs too.

We came to learn that that term has a very wide range of interpretation! If anyone has read the memoir “Field notes from an Unintentional birder” by Toronto author Julia Zarankin (I highly recommend it, by the way!) you will glean some idea how Rick and I felt being among a group of avid

birders. Zarankin initially goes bird watching “out of curiosity for the strange breed of humans who wear multi pocketed vests (and) carry spotting scopes….” (and who will drive many hours when notified of a rare or unusual bird sighting). Over time, grudgingly, the author who would’ve never predicted that she would become one of them, becomes a dedicated birder. A review of her books states that the author’s “thoughtful and witty anecdotes illuminate the joyful experience of a new discovery, and the surprising pleasure to be found while standing still on the edge of a lake at 6 AM” Starting on our second day, which involved travel from San Jose to get to our destination at San Gerardo de Dota, in the mountains, in a brief walk around the gardens of the restaurant at which we stopped for lunch, birds and bird identification became a happy focus of our trip.

It quickly became clear that Bill and Susan were hardly what I would call amateur birders and leagues above Rick’s and my experience. They and Ayo were spotting a dozen or more species of birds there while Rick and I were floundering to even spot a bird that wasn’t directly out in the open or on the path in front of us. Easiest for me were the bird feeders set up on the outdoor patio! Eugenio told us that there were

about 950 species of birds in Costa Rica and he had been lucky to have seen more than 900 of them at that point in time!

I think Bill and Susan, who had been to Costa Rica twice before, also had identified more than 300 by this point. They had with them a book on birds of Costa Rica and faithfully recorded every new species that they saw on this trip. Impressive!

Day 3 would involve a 6:00 AM start for bird viewing. On that first morning, cold and frozen (night temperatures had hovered about 0°C and our accommodations there were rustic cabins with one small heater!) I was walking ahead of our group

with Tito, a local guide that Ayo had asked to accompany our group, when Tito spotted one of the most famous birds found almost exclusively in Costa Rica (also in Peru I believe) on a tree branch just above us. This was the resplendent male Quetzal.

He’s easily identifiable because of the brilliant emerald plumage and four extended upper tail coverts that stream down about 30 inches in the full grown male. In the book that I have mentioned Zarankin had gone to Costa Rica in order to try to find the quetzal, as it is especially high on many birders’ bucket list. She did not get to view one despite spending two weeks there. My very first attempt at serious birding yielded a perfect view of this bird through the guide’s scope! He then called out, “Quetzal” so others in our group and vicinity could be alerted to its presence. As I found out guides do this as a courtesy to alert other groups notably for opportunities as special or rare as this. Almost immediately, as if we were partaking in a scene from a comedy film, groups of birders seemingly came out of nowhere - emerging from the bushes, and around the bends in the road, with scopes, binoculars, and yes, multipocketed vests. It was a scene worthy of a

British comedy… Although this male took flight fortunately there were additional quetzals flying higher and perched in the tree tops of the mountains. We were lucky enough to be in the area at the time of their mating season and so our tour was conducive to viewing these birds - chosen

by Ayo, of course, with this in mind.

That amazing sighting was enough for me to get bitten with the bird watching bug!

Being new to this activity (?sport), I still floundered and faltered, failing to raise my binoculars and focus quickly enough,(or failing entirely to see the bird that others were pointing to, especially if it was small, or it’s plumage was not brilliant). Rick, who has very keen eyesight, chose not to use binoculars possibly in part for this reason of time-lag. Thanks to Ayo’s, Bill’s and Susan’s patience and help I got better as the trip progressed. Fortunately for Rick and myself many birds were both large and colourful, and therefore easy to spot.

Our tour took us from the mountains to the cloud forest, then more centrally and ending on the Pacific Coast in an area that is considered the start of the Amazon jungle.

Some really amazing sightings besides the first one of the Quetzal, included two other rare sightings. The first was of a flock of huge White King vultures which were gliding in circular motion, much like eagles do, on the wind currents and air stream above the ocean waters. We were fortunate enough to watch them for a prolonged time from our balcony with a gorgeous view of the Pacific, when staying at a lovely hotel in Costa Ballena area.

Our second special sighting occurred en route to the Osa Peninsula in Drake Bay. While boating down the Sierpe River we took a detour through the mango forest to look for wildlife and birds. Our drivers and Ayo pointed out Great Potoos, mostly brown birds that were completely camouflaged and remained motionless looking like the tree branches that they were perched on. I’m still not 100% sure if looking through my binoculars I actually spotted the bird or just a branch! On that same journey along the water, we were also fortunate enough to spot a macaws’ nest with the chicks in it.

Additionally, on this trip we got to see three types of toucans, a variety of tanagers, kingfishers, flycatchers and a large number of other species including many of the more than 50 species of hummingbirds that live in Costa Rica (about 15% of the world’s hummingbirds reportedly live in that small country). One type of magnificently coloured and quite large hummingbird is actually called Magnificent! (Scientific name - Eugenes fulgens).

So, although I can’t say I got great at spotting anything (without others’ help) but the largest and most colourful birds, being on the trip with three avid birders, who were sighting and pointing out numerous species, I can probably say I may have seen up to 70 different species of birds on that trip. As a first birding experience, it was noteworthy and absolutely magical, leaving me in awe of Nature’s magnificence and the diversity of birds in our world.

At home now I’m trying to familiarize myself with more of our Canadian species.

Some mornings I sit on the couch with my coffee and binoculars looking at the visitors to the three bird feeders which hang in front of our main window in the living room. And even though the Canadians are not as resplendent as their southern cousins, my heart leaps with joy when I see the Downy woodpeckers, the chubby chickadees, the upside down nuthatches and all the other feathered visitors that grace our feeders with their presence. This spring I also hope to join my birdwatcher friends in the field!

A scholar who studies the Marquis de Sade is called a Sadian not a Sadist.

With Wally Smith Compensating for anything outside our centre of mass and trying not to hinder the horse, as he does the same, is easier said then done. if we have not yet experienced the how, why and feel of a horse, how they move, why they are moving and what it feels like. we should not be asking for much until we have settled into our own centre of balance, calm in our mind, relaxed and ready in our body and sure in our seat. if we are better prepared and conditioned, we will be able to help our horse prepare and condition himself with less interruption, rather, we can give support in his own ideas, until he softly follows yours. some-

times simply just riding as freely as you can and just letting the horse move about under you, until things come together in harmony, is time well spent. it takes not caring where your horse goes, just go with them and you will know it when it begins to happen, because you will feel it. and our bodies along with our horses will begin to seek that good feel.

My name is Egypt and I need a home, how about yours?

PET OF THE

THINK SPRING AND RENOVATIONS! COME IN FOR A VISIT!

WEEK

Egypt’s kittens all found loving forever homes and now it is her turn. She has such a unique appearance to her with black eyeliner giving her that exotic look. She loves attention and just loves treats! Egypt gets along with other pets and is litter trained.

She is fixed and has first vaccines. If you’re interested in this striking beauty, please contact us.

thelittlepawspetrescue@gmail.com Her adoption fee isisnow $150the from $200 reach out to your local *Abandonment never answer, or SPCA when needing assistance* Fostering inrescue Sundridge

Sunday - Monday Tuesday : 7am-9pm Wednesday - Thursday Friday - Saturday : 7am - 10pm

Great North Arrow

MAGNETAWAN HOME HARDWARE BUILDING CENTRE

HOME HARDWARE STORE

15 Burrows Street Magnetawan 705-387-3988 www.homehardware.ca

*Abandonment is never the answer, reach out to your local rescue or SPCA when needing assistance*

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Whats New @ Kwik-Way BURK’S FALLS (705) 382-2887

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Magnetawan Municipality of Magnetawan- Attention Curbside Collection Residents Due to Canada Post strike, the Municipality cannot mail the 2025 Recycling Calendars and Curbside Collection Stickers to residents who pay a special area tax rate within the Village of Magnetawan for Curbside Collection. Residents who wish to pick up their 2025 curbside collection stickers can do so during the Municipal Office hours of 8:00am – 5:00pm. Should the strike end prior to the Christmas holiday, the remaining curbside collection stickers will be mailed out. Please contact the Municipal Office at (705) 387-3947 or at info@magnetawan.com for more information.

The Municipality of Magnetawan has been working over the last few months to bring the new Service Ontario mobile service centre to Magnetawan to provide in-person access to government services to our community members. The mobile service centre will offer a wide range of services, such as driver and vehicle, health card, Ontario Photo Card and accessible parking permit services, among others.

The Mobile Unit is currently here located in the Upper Lions' Pavilion Parking Lot till 3pm. The Mobile Service Unit will be here every 2nd Monday of the Month and its next scheduled visit is Monday FEBRUARY 10TH from 10am until 3pm! #magswhereitsat #magnetawan Super Senior nominations are now open for 2025! The Ontario Senior of the Year Award gives each Municipality in Ontario the opportunity to honour one outstanding local Ontarian who after the age of 65 has enriched the social, cultural, or civic life of their community. If you would like to nominate a SUPER SENIOR from our Municipality for this award, please send your nomination to Ibrandt@magnetawn. cam GREAT NEWS! Staff applied for grant funding and were successful in their application to the 2024-25 Fire Protection Grant Funding Stream. Council passed resolution 2025-13 receiving the report Outcome of New Years Eve Gala and approves the recommendations contained therein to transfer the ticket and bar proceeds to the Community Enhancement Fund in the amount cf $7,943. Stay tuned for a New Years Eve Gala in 2025!

Did you KNOW? That it takes the Public Works Department an estimated 8 hours per route (one round) to complete Snowplowing within the Municipality? The Roads Crew aims to be out before the School Buses and typically Bus Routes are completed first!

FEBRUARY 12TH- IS The next open public meeting of Council is February 12, 2025, SAVE THE DATE at 1:00 pm at the Magnetawan Community Centre. Questions?

Concerns? Ideas? Contact the Municipal Office at (705) 387-3947 or by email at info@magnetawan.com ICE SKATING - MAGNETAWAN LIONS' PAVILION PLEASE NOTE THAT THE USE OF THE IS WEATHER DEPENDENT MONDAY 9 am - 4 pm Public Skating 4 pm - 6 pm Junior Hockey 6 pm - 8 pm Public Skating 8 pm - 11 pm Hockey TUESDAY - 9 am — 6 pm Public Skating 6 pm — 8 pm Junior Hockey 8 pm — 11 pm Hockey WEDNESDAY - 9 am —4 pm Public Skating 4 pm — 6 pm Junior Hockey 6 pm — 8 pm Public Skating 8 pm - 11pm Hockey THURSDAY-9 am — 6 pm Public Skating 6 pm — 8 pm Junior Hockey 8 pm — 11 pm Hockey FRIDAY - 9 am — 1 pm Junior Hockey 1 pm — 8 pm Public Skating 8 pm — 11 pm Hockey SATURDAY- 9 am - 1 pm Junior Hockey 1 pm — 6 pm Public Skating 6 pm — 11 pm Hockey SUNDAY -9 am — 1 pm Junior Hockey 1 pm — 6 pm Public Skaäng 6 pm — 11 pm Hockey There will be no sticks or pucks on the ice during public skating times. The hours are as posted. Paid scheduled or special events will take priority and pre-empt the free legu\ax skating schedule. For more information or to book special events contact the Municipal Office at (705) 3873947 Junior Hockey is for ages 10 and under , No food or drinks on the ice please Please be safe and respectful of other skaters, GET MOVING! with Fitness and Yoga Classes in Magnetawan! Looking for a fun way to stay active, be social, and de-stress? Join us for two fun, weekly classes at the Magnetawan Community Centre—and the best part? They’re completely FREE! Monday Nights: “Fab, Fit, and Fun” 🕡 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Get your heart pumping and your energy up with this exciting fitness class, perfect for all levels! Thursday Nights: Yoga 🕔 5:15 PM – 6:15 PM Unwind and find your inner peace with a relaxing yoga session designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. Location: Magnetawan Community Centre Cost: FREE Whether you’re a

Great North Arrow

How do you get a farm girl to marry you? A-yractor. seasoned yogi or just starting your fitness journey, these classes are a great way to connect with your community and prioritize your well-being. Tag a friend and make it a weekly tradition!

FEBRUARY 2ND - 2PM- Magnetawan Friendship Club - Bingo Everyone 18+ Welcome - $10 for 3 cards – 10 games - 'Share the Wealth' - Snacks and pop for sale.

FEBRUARY 14TH-16TH – SOS DRAG RACES IN STEWARTS FIELD FEBRUARY 16TH- 2PM- Magnetawan Friendship Club - Bingo Everyone 18+ Welcome - $10 for 3 cards – 10 games - 'Share the Wealth' - Snacks and pop for sale . 18 AND OVER FEBRUARY 19TH- 5pm- SENIORS FREE DINNER AND LEARN EVENT Location: Magnetawan Community Centre Presentation by Heather Hay, Muskoka Elder Abuse Prevention at 5:00 pm Steak or Chicken Pot Pie by Jimmy to be served at 6:00 pm Come join us to learn about the programs that are offered in the East Parry Sound Area! - RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED BY MONDAY FEBRUARY 10TH AS THERE IS LIMITED SEATING - To register, please contact the Municipal Office at (705) 387-3947 or by email at recreation@magnetawan.com - FUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO - Municipality Of Magnetawan FEBRUARY 25TH- FAMOUS LION’S CLUB Wild Game Dinner , CONTACT A LIONS CLUB MEMBER FOR INFORMATION MARCH 4TH- Shrove Tuesday – LION’S PUT ON A FANTASTIC PANCAKE SUPPER , DETAILS TO FOLLOW LANDFILL WINTER HOURS 8AM TO 4PM -CHAPMAN LANDFILL OPEN: SUNDAY, MONDAY CROFT LANDFILL OPEN: TUESDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY A LANDFILL SCHEDULED TO BE OPEN DURING THE WINTER MONTHS WILL NOT BE OPEN ON A STATUTORY HOLIDAY SUMMER HOURS WILL RESUME SATURDAY MAY 17, 2025 FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MUNICIPAL LANDFILLS AND RECYCLING - PLEASE VISIT OUR LANDFILL AND RECYCLING PAGE ON OUR WEBSITE AT - WWW.MAGNETAWAN.COM MAGNETAWAN PUBLIC LIBRARY – FEBRUARY 8TH AT 11AM – NEW !! Toddler time! something new, to better serve our Community! Bring your toddlers babies to tykes! We will be reading stories, colouring, free playing with toys! Great for social time, big and small!

SATURDAYS! MAGNETAWAN LIBRARY BOOK SALE EVERY SATURDAY! 10AM-1PM - HARDCOVER $1 - PAPERBÅCK $0.50 STOP BY! WE HAVE A WONDERFUL SELECTION! BRING A BAG! WE HAVE LOTS TO CHOSE FROM! MAGNETAWAN FRIENDSHIP CLUB FEBRUARY 5TH- 9:30AM -CREATIVE CRAFTERS FEBRUARY 7TH - Friday - Euchre at 7 pm JANUARY 20th- Monday -friendship Monday 1 pm FEBRUARY 12TH- – Wednesday – Creative Crafters at 9:30am JFEBRUARY 14TH - Friday- Euchre at 7pm FEBRUARY 25TH - Tuesday- Seniors Lunch, eat in or take out FEBRUARY 19TH- Wednesday - Creative Crafters at 9:30 am FEBRUARY 21ST - Friday - Euchre at 7 pm FEBRUARY 26 TH- Wednesday - Creative Crafters at 9:30 am FEBRUARY 28TH- Friday - Euchre at 7 pm EUCHRE EVERY TUESDAY AT THE DUNCHURCH LEGION - 10am-Noon - Everyone welcome to join in the fun!

DROP IN PICKLE BALL - TUESDAYS 10:00 AM TO 12:30 PM & 6:00 PM TO 7:30 PM. NOW INSIDE AT THE MAGNETAWAN COMMUNITY CENTRE! EQUIPMENT CAN BE PROVIDED OR BRING YOUR OWN PADDLES. Come join us indoors. Paddles and wiffle balls provided. All you need are indoor shoes MAGNETAWAN FIRE DEPARTMENT NEEDS YOU! Volunteers Needed There’s A Job for Everyone! Firefighter, Medical Responder ,Driver/Operator, Accountability Person ,Safety Officer, Radio Operators, For an application or more information: -visit the Municipalities website www.magnetawan.com -call or text 705-349-8477 -email fire@magnetawan.com -visit Station One at 81 Albert St. TRINITY UNITED CHURCH INVITES YOU TO HELP - Please help keep our community pantry full! We have many people using this and we are having a lot of difficulty keeping up with the needs. Please consider donating non-perishable foods and unopened toiletries to our pantry, located in the “mural” corner of the community center parking lot. There will also be donation boxes at the Market (near the coffee counter) and on the porch at Trinity United Church (kitty-corner from the Grill).

As always, if you need something please take and use it, remembering that there are many in need. Have a wonderful time of giving thanks!

Magnetawan Friendship Club - Monthly members meeting - 2nd Tuesday 1 p.m. Bingo every 2 weeks - Sunday - 2 pm $10 - 50/50 - Euchre, Crib, and so much more

Are you, or is someone you know, a senior over 65? someone recovering from surgery or illness?; someone with a chronic or terminal illness?; or someone with a developmental disability? Magnetawan Meals On Wheels provides meal delivery to the Municipality of Magnetawan to those who are eligible Meals on Wheels We deliver !

Contact Volunteer Coordinators Bill & Mary Bishop @ 705-349-1264 for more details.

Quiet Bay Café, 5333 Hwy 124, Magnetawan is open for breakfast and lunch!

New hours going forward will be 6am to 2 pm TUESDAY .-Friday, & 8am to 2pm SatSun. WE ARE CLOSED MONDAYS. MAGNETAWAN PUBLIC LIBRARY Calling All Young Book Lovers! Do you have a favourite series of books? Or a favourite topic you love to read about?

Why not share that, and spark the joy Of reading in Others! Come to the library and fill Out an application, when picked you will be responsible for creating: Your own book display, Of your chosen books. A poster for your display. and creatively decorating it your way. Your display will be up in the library for 1 week! Sign up at the Magnetawan Public Library -Ages 10 + Tuesday March 04, 2025. Pickeral Fry – July /25 Swim Classes –start July 14 to August 01, 2025 Golf Tournament – Sept. 25 Dock/ Picnic tables available upon request

BURK’S FALLS FEBURARY 1ST AND MARCH 1ST – ARBF MONTHLY BINGO - Mark your calendars!

DOORS OPEN AT 5:30pm - MINI GAMES START AT 6:30pm - REGULAR GAMES TO FOLLOW Minimum 2 strip purchase to play , Monthly Special Game worth $100.00 ,All proceeds are going to support the fair, other events and activities hosted by the ARBF.BREAK OPEN , BALLS TICKETS ARE BACK! YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $200.00 CASH MONEY -NO OUTSIDE - FOOD OR DRINKS - KITCHEN IS OPEN -HOT DOGS , CHIPS, POP, WATER, , COFFEE AND TEA - ARBFMONTHLY BINGO BURK'S FALLS ARENA KARL CROZIER ROOM FEBRUARY 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH - BINGO!!!

EMSDALE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY- EVERY WEDNESDAY - Over 40 years of fun - A little bingo with BIG prizes. DOORS OPEN AT 530PM - GAMES STARTS AT 6:45 PM - NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR DRINK PLEASE – The Canteen will be OPEN! 25 JOSEPH STREET www.emsdaleagriculturabociety.com MAGNETAWAN – FEBRUARY 2ND- FEBRUARY 16TH- 2PM- Magnetawan Friendship Club - Bingo Everyone 18+ Welcome - $10 for 3 cards – 10 games - 'Share the Wealth' - Snacks and pop for sale . 18 AND OVER PARRY SOUND – MONDAYS- MONDAY NIGHT BINGO AT 7PMKNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MNDAYS- MONDAY NIGHT BINGO 7PM AT THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HALL – ITS BEST TO ARRIVE BEFORE 6PM TO GE A SEAT! PORT LORINGTUESDAYS- TUESDAY NIGHTS- BRANCH 415 ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION -BINGO - EVERY TUESDAY EVENING STARTS AT 7:30 SPRUCEDALE – MONDAYS- Sprucedale Senior’s Friendship Club Monday NIGHTS AT 7pm Dabber Bingo doors open at 6 pm. Come and join our players for a fun time of Bingo!!!

SPRUCEDALE SPECIAL BINGO! WINTERFEST FEBRUARY 15TH- HOSTED BY THE ‘Sprucedale Seniors Friendship Club’. DABBER BINGO 3:30pm to 5:30 pm EUCHRE ARMOUR/KATRINE TUESDAYS- Leisure Club has Bid Euchre every Tuesday afternoons from 1:30 - 4ish followed by a light snack SATURDAYS- DUNCHURCH – LEGION BRANCH 394- ; Saturday 1 - 6 PM euchre. cost of cards is $5.00 MONDAYS- GOLDEN VALLEY- Monday Night Bid Euchre will be held at St. Paul’s United Church in Golden Valley.

FRIDAYS- HURDVILLE - Euchre at the Hurdville Community Club Friday nights – 7pm.

MAGNETAWAN -FRIDAYS -JANUARY 31ST, FEBRUARY 7TH, FEBRUARY 14TH, FEBRUARY 21ST, FEBRUARY 28T- EUCHRE AT THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB -JANUARY 31ST - Friday - Euchre at 7 pm MCKELLAR - SUNDAYS – AT 1PM - Euchre at McKellar Community Centre, bid euchre games begin at 1 p.m. Cost is $5 coffee and snacks included. Everyone welcome. Beginners welcome! Come out and learn how to play and join in the fun! 12:15pm.

THURSDAYS - Seniors euchre Thursdays 1pm at the McKellar Community Centre. All welcome. 10 games/8hands. Lots of fun and friendship to be had!

KEARNEY –LEGION - TUESDAY'S REGULAR EUCHRE I0am - THURSDAY'S BID EUCHRE - New players always welcome!

PARRY SOUND - Bid Euchre Cards Monday at 1:00 pm and Friday at 7:00 pm at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB PORT LORING- LEGION BRANCH 415 - Every Thursday - Bid Euchre 7pm Join us for some fun with family and friends!

RESTOULE – LEGION - Euchre Night! Come on out! 7 pm to close! EVERY TUESDAY SOUTH RIVER – LEGION - Why not meet at the Legion for some fun! Euchre Thursday 2-4 pm.

SPRUCEDALE – Sprucedale Senior’s Friendship Club - Mondays at 1 pm Ladies Euchre, men welcome; 7pm Dabber Bingo doors open at 6 pm.

Habitat for Humanity Continued....

Whether you’re an individual with a few hours to spare or a business looking to make a lasting impact, there’s a place for you in this project. Habitat’s “Adopt-a-Day” program allows businesses and organizations to sponsor a day on the build site, giving employees the chance to contribute their time and skills while supporting a meaningful cause.

In addition to corporate sponsorships, individual donations are vital. Every dollar brings us closer to providing a family with the stability and security that only homeownership can offer. Habitat also encourages in-kind donations of materials and services from local tradespeople and suppliers, helping to stretch every fundraising dollar even further.

Why Affordable Housing Matters Affordable housing is more than a roof over someone’s head; it’s a springboard to a brighter future. For many families, owning a home provides the stability needed to thrive—children perform better in school, parents can focus on careers, and health outcomes improve. In Parry Sound, where rising housing costs have put homeownership out of reach for many, Habitat’s work addresses an urgent need.

The 19 Hillcrest Avenue build is not just about constructing a house; it’s about creating opportunities. The selected family will gain access to an affordable mortgage tailored to their income, ensuring that they can manage their finances while investing in their future. Habitat’s model provides a hand-up, not a handout, enabling families to break the cycle of poverty and build long-term stability.

How You Can Help The path from purchased lot to finished home requires the support of everyone in our community. Here’s how you can get involved: Volunteer: No construction experience?

No problem! Habitat provides training and welcomes volunteers of all skill levels to help on the build site or assist with fundraising events.

Donate: Whether it’s $10 or $10,000, every contribution makes a difference. Donations can be made directly to Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North through their website or local office – make sure that you indicate it is for the Parry Sound build.

Sponsor: Businesses can support the build through financial contributions or in-kind donations of materials and services. Sponsorship packages offer recognition opportunities that showcase your commitment to the community.

Spread the Word: Share this story with friends, family, and colleagues. The more people know about the project, the more support we can rally.

A Vision of Unity Parry Sound has a long history of coming together to support one another. From local fundraisers to community events, we’ve proven time and again that we are stronger when we work as one. The 19 Hillcrest Avenue build is our chance to demonstrate that same spirit of unity.

As we look ahead, the sights and sounds of construction—hammers swinging, saws buzzing, voices cheering—will echo a message of hope. This project represents more than just the creation of a home; it’s a testament to what can be achieved when we all come together for a shared purpose.

Looking Forward With the property secured, the next chapter in this story depends on us. We have the blueprint, but it’s up to our community to bring it to life. Let’s roll up our sleeves, open our hearts, and show what Parry Sound is capable of achieving.

Together, we can build more than a house—we can build a future.

For further information you can call: Ab Fuller (705) 346-2697 Linda West (705) 346-4424 The strength of early lasers was measured in Gillettes, the number of blue razor blades a given beam could puncture.

Mixed Euchre Thursday at 7:00 pm these events take place at the Community Centre, 31 William Street.

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McKellar WELCOME YOUR NEWEST BUSINESS! Exciting news! Bistro 685, on the corner of Hwy. 124 and Centre Road, is open Tuesday-Sunday, 4-8 p.m., cash or e-transfer only. Delicious Pizza and wings with more to come!

Get Involved in Your Community! Library Board Supports library programs and services to meet community needs. Meets: Last Monday of the month at 10:00 a.m.

(Jan—June & Sept—Nov) in the Library.

Recreation Committee Advises on sports and community activities, for all ages, to keep McKellar active! Meets: Last Thursday of the month at 3:30 p.m.

Historical Committee Preserves McKellar's history and educates the community about its cultural legacy. Meets: 1st Wednesday of the month at 2:00 p.m.

Lake Stewardship & Environmental Committee (LSEC) Fosters environmental awareness and works to protect McKellar's natural resources. Meets: 2nd Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m.

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS AT 10:30AM EXERCISE IS OFFERED BY THE RECREATION COMMITTEE. MONDAY IS BADMINTON NIGHT AT 7PM TUESDAYS ARE FOR PICKLEBALL! 9AM THURSDAYS JOIN IN YOGA AT 7PM FRIDAYS ARE FOR PICKLEBALL AT 12;30 PM FRIDAY TAI CHI AT 9:30PM SUNDAYS – AT 1PM - Euchre at McKellar Community Centre, bid euchre games begin at 1 p.m. Cost is $5 coffee and snacks included. Everyone welcome. Beginners welcome! Come out and learn how to play and join in the fun! 12:15pm.

McKellar Seniors euchre Thursdays 1pm at the McKellar Community Centre.

All welcome. 10games/8hands. Lots of fun and friendship to be had!

HURDVILLE - Euchre at the Hurdville Community Club Friday nights – 7pm.

Yoga with Helen is back at the McKeI-

Iar Community Hall every Thursday from 7pm-8pm Burnett's Road Corner Library Is located at Burnett's and Hurdville Rd. Free books, magazines, dvds.

FEBRUARY 15TH- KIDS ICE FISHING DERBY! Make sure that you mark this date on on your calendar! The McKellar Recreation Committee is hosting the annual Kids Ice Fish Derby at Armstrong Lake. Located right behind the McKellar Community Centre. Everyone is welcome!

EUCHRE FUN! Please come out and join us Thursdays and Sundays! The McKellar Sunshine Seniors play euchre Thursdays at 1 p.m. McKellar Senior Citizens play bid Euchre on Sundays at 1 p.m. in the McKellar Community Centre.

FEBRUARY4TH AND FEBRUARY 18TH McKrafters meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month 6-9 pm. Bring your own project. All are welcome. Great fun!

JANUARY 28TH- BOOK CLUB - 4th Tuesday of Every Month at 1:00 pm McKELLAR PUBLIC LIBRARY Have you visited the library and checked out the new Makerspace area? sewing and circuit classes will be held.

FEBRUARY 4TH AND FEBRUARY 18TH - KNITTING CLUB - 1st and 3rd Tuesday of Every Month at 1:00 pm FEBRUARY 11th – 25th - - McKrafters - 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from 6:00 to 9:00 pm Bring your current craft/project and enjoy the social time!

FEBRUARY 25TH- Book Club- 4th Tuesday of Every Month at 1:00 pm McKellar Memories and Celebrating McKellar-Books for Sale at the Library!

McKellar Memories-$28.00 incl. tax-Get yours today, and help support our library!

It’s here! The long awaited and much anticipated book, Celebrating McKellar! Stories contributed by all those who love McKellar, in honour of its 150th anniversary. On sale now in your library for $28.00 incl. tax each. Hope to see you soon!

Hawaii is the only coffee producing state.

WHITESTONE McKELLAR LIONS DONATE TO THE LIBRARY The Whitestone McKellar Lions Club were happy to present the McKellar Public Library with a donation toward books and programs for children in our community. Check them out at https://mckellarpubliclibrary. ca/. The library is an incredible resource in our community and has something for everyone!

Thank you to the library staff and board members for doing such a fantastic job!!

The first McDonald’s restaurant in Canada was in Richmond, British Columbia.

REMEMBERING ROD RETURN TO SUNDRIDGE

Rod Urquhart

It had been a good 30-odd years since I returned to Sundridge, and the changes are unbelievable. I spent a lot of time in Sundridge in my youth, as you have already read. I started going to Minors’ cottage on Lake Bernard at about age 15 and Kevin and I pretty well, were up there every weekend and holidays until we both got married around age 33.

Now, my host in Sundridge, who would prefer to remain unnamed, were so magnanimous-- driving myself and wife, Aase, all around not only Sundridge, but also South River and Burk’s Falls. Now, my male host, who grew up in Sundridge and his wife, who I believe was a farm girl from Saskatchewan, recently moved full time to Lake Bernard from the GTA after owning property up there for years and years.

And you know what? I think they're much, much happier being up north and away from the growing hustle bustle of the GTA and the growing crime rate, not to mention a small town is much more appealing than anything the GTA can offer today. Everybody is just so friendly! This is not even mentioning the beauty of living on a large body of water.

I'd actually love to move up to Sunridge, but I'll have to come up with one hell of a convincing argument to get Aase to move up north… but that's another chapter I have to say, the most impressive feature north of Huntsville is the highway.

I couldn't believe the new infrastructure of Hwy. 11. What used to take about an hour or more from Huntsville to Sundridge is now about a 20-minute drive or less. At every exit, even a cow patch Rd. has an access and exit of Hwy. 11.

And, the highway is absolutely stunning, easy to access and exit from any point, and everything is clearly marked. I talked to our hosts neighbour, a real friendly guy, who said when I mentioned this,” you can thank Mike Harris a North Bay boy’ and this new 4-lane super highway goes all the way to North Bay. I just couldn't believe that my 3 1/2 hour drive from GTA to Sundridge back in the old days, is now way under 3 hours, with a stop for coffee in Huntsville too. And I can remember coming home late on a Sunday night with Kevin's dad, Ken, and hitting standing still traffic just before Burk’s Falls and it taking hours and hours to get home and that wasn't even a long weekend.

I was also so impressed with what Cyndi and James had done with the Burk’s Falls - BF Welcome centre (and just had to purchase one of their magnificent hoodies) talk about Aladdin’s cave-they had so much packed in there, ace spent some $150.00 in about 20 minutes. And James was nice enough to open the welcome centre for us, a lady stopped in, thinking it was open, and James graciously sold her three packages of smoked trout she said she had friends

coming from B.C. It was quite grateful to get this delicacy.

(Now as I write this, I imagine the welcome centre is now closed for the season and James will soon, if not now, open a spectacular photo gallery of his wonderful photos on the Main Street of Burk’s walls and Great North arrow should be available there monthly.

Our hosts also took us to screaming heads that's all I was told it was called which is outside Burk’s Falls and this wonderful maze of many acres of concrete kind of Halloween or scary creatures, complete with vendors when we visited and plenty of parking and even a stage for concerts. I had no idea this even existed, and I can't believe it's not on the promises must see day trips for Ontarians? Of course, we left a good donation for letting us view these spectacular grounds.

Another thing that really got me, was just how busy the Tim Horton’s is inverse walls.

These Timmy’s are independently owned franchises and the owner of this Timmy’s has to be living in one big house! We actually had to abandon stopping in for coffee because it was so jammed and it was a weekday about 3:00 PM. And our hosts took me back to the Minors’ cottage on the South side of lake Bernard. Again, I could not believe the changes now a paved Rd. most of the way off the sun Ridge Main Street, just before the railway tracks, and, proper signage for all those living on that road.

The field next to Ross Johnston's cottage, where Ross built and maintained a little, short 6- hole golf course, that he, Jim Lang and myself used to play after dinner, was now a bunch of houses and cottages. That land doubled as a touch football field on Sundays, when the Johnstons, Minors’ and friends would gather for a friendly game.

God, those games were so much fun, but it's all built up now.

The Minors’ cottage used to have a vacant lot between it and the Johnston’s cottage and now, that is one big cottage.

And the other side of Jim Lang’s cottage next door to the Minors’ is also all built up with more cottages. I guess you can't stop growth.

All in all, a memorable trip back to Sundridge and I can't thank our hosts enough, they basically chauffeured us around to every place I wanted to see after some 30 years the only problem was at night, when we sat down and played a marathon of euchre, of course I was partnered with the male host and I have to unfortunately report, and some 50 years of euchre playing, i have never lost so badly (to the girls or should I say ladies). I hope sometime in the future I get to go back up north and redeem my severely destroyed card playing self esteem If people like Jake, Liam, Morgan, Ralph, Cindy and Dory are reading this, a big shout out to all of my old friends up in the great white north.

(Postscript: As originally appeared in the November 2021 Great North Arrow, I have not talked with Misener in a couple of years.) editor's note: As Rod was getting ready to take his final journey and I was speaking with him, I promised that his love of sharing his stories would never end, and we would continue to publish his stories. This helps me to keep him with me in my heart and hear his laughter. I hope that you enjoy his tales as much as I do.

More than 1,000 different languages are spoken on the continent of Africa.

Dog On A Root What Is Love?

- jim young, LORING, ON

Insert What is Love Happy Valentine’s Day to the lighting bolt I had been waiting all my life for - My Shirley.

“I thought Love was only true in fairy tales…” Neil Diamond I could have written that. Assuming I was as brilliant as Neil Diamond, that is. What I mean is – “Love was out to get me, that’s the way it seemed. Disappointment haunted all my dreams.” Okay – I’ll stop plagiarising Neil Diamond now.

It's just that "I'm A Believer" so perfectly described my Love life as a teen.

Everyone had girlfriends - except for me. And, being the romantic I have always been, I so desperately wanted to be in Love. Sure there were girls that I dated.

And they were all very nice. But I was look-

ing for that lightning bolt that was going to knock me off my feet.

We can no more “choose to Love” than we can “choose NOT to Love”. For as Kahil Gibran wrote, “Think not you can guide the course of Love. For Love, if it finds you worthy, shall guide your course.”

This was the sixties and it shouldn't have been that difficult to find a true Love.

Because the sixties were all about Love.

Love was in the air. Love was all around. As the Beatles sang, it was “Love - Love - Love - All you need is Love - Love, Love is all you need.”

I just wanted in on it. And I guess I was really. I just didn’t know it. Because Love is more than just being “in Love” with that special someone. There are so many kinds

of Love.

I had parents that Loved me and I Loved them in return. The Love they gave me was

their guidance, patience and understanding. The Love I offered in return was my obedience (mostly) and my willingness to do them proud – whatever their perception (and/or my perception) of that was.

“God so Loved the world that he gave his only begotten son.” (John 3:16) And a parent’s Love isn’t so different. Parents have children and try to mould them in their own image. That’s not as bad as it sounds.

In fact – it’s about the best you can expect from your parents whether or not you ever live up to their expectations.

I had sisters who Loved me and I Loved them in return. I adored my older sisters and my younger sisters adored me. The Love my older sisters returned to me was likewise the same kind of Love that I passed onto my younger sisters. “Will the circle be unbroken…” (Ada Ruth Habershon) And then there was Punky. And Rinty and Pugsy and Yawn and Margaret and Alice and Leon and Carly and many more. They were my pets.

Dogs, cats, birds and rats, Racoons and mice - they were all so nice.

Oh! How I cried when each one died…

I think the Love of a pet is one of the most intimate experiences anyone can ever encounter. And the unconditional Love your pet returns to you is the greatest Love anyone could ever be fortunate enough to receive; unparalleled even by the Love of your parents, siblings and mate. There simply are no limits, no conditions. Perhaps

the only true undying Love.

And then there were my friends. Buzz – from public school and the gang from High School most of whom I never see anymore, but the Love we shared was a bond that we will carry to our graves. “Should Auld Acquaintance be forgot…” (Robert Burns) There are people that come into your life for a limited time only and your Love for them is nothing more than directly proportional to the brief time they are in your life.

These Loves are not so much important as they are just fillers between your greater Loves. Yet they are loves that will linger fondly in your memory forever.

“And then I saw her face…” - the proverbial lightning bolt struck. When I was least expecting it, Love found me worthy.

I discovered my soul mate, my best friend and my Lover all in one person. The one kind of Love that had been alluding me all my life was finally within my grasp. And I became a believer. “and in the end – the Love you take is equal to the Love you make.” (Lennon-McCartney) - 30 -

The Bible, the world’s best-selling book, is also the world’s most shoplifted book.

Great North Arrow

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Parry Sound Tim Hortons on Bowes Street in Parry Sound Set for Renovations GNA STAFF; Cyndi Culbert- The Tim Hortons located at 113 Bowes Street in Parry Sound is preparing for significant renovations, with work scheduled to begin in March, the renovations are expected to take approximately two weeks to com-

plete.

To minimize disruptions for customers, the restaurant owners sought and received permission from Parry Sound council to operate a temporary drive-thru service during the renovation period. The application was approved at the council meeting on January 21.

The temporary drive-thru will be operated out of a trailer and will feature a limited menu. However, the trailer will not include washrooms or any other public access facilities.

In the meantime, customers can still enjoy Tim Hortons products at Bradshaw's Pioneer, conveniently located at 80 Bowes Street. This location recently-opened a Tim and is open seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

This ensures locals have continued access to their favorite coffee and treats while the Bowes Street location undergoes its upgrades.

The newly renovated restaurant will reopen once the renovations are finished and the temporary drive through trailer has been removed.

Stay tuned for updates as renovations progress and check for updates on Parry Sound’s Tim Hortons social media.

Please Support healthcare in the Parry Sound area. Play the Love Our Hospital 50/50 Lottery- Winner's Estimated Take Home Prize $2,670 Purchase Your Tickets Now! Ticket (s)$75 FOR 400 - Ticket(s) $40 FOR 150 Ticket(s) $20 FOR 40 - Ticket(s) $10 FOR 10 DID YOU KNOW THAT – AT THE 'WING HOUSE' IN PARRY SOUND YOU CAN ENJOY A MEAL FREE ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? A PERFECT PLACE FOR A MEAL ANYTIME, BUT EVEN A BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE! FEBRUARY 4TH – 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street FEBRUARY 4TH- 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street FEBRUARY 7th - 9:30am-10:30am - Essentrics® Stretch and Tone Full-Body Workout for Radiant Health, February 21st ,28th.

Unlock your body and feel your best with this low impact dynamic workout improve posture, activate connective tissue and fascia, strengthen the core, increase range of motion in shoulders, hips, spine and ankles, challenge your endurance and stability.

Humphrey Community Centre - 15 Humphrey Drive - Seguin, ON 647-222-4498 $15.00 —Save with purchase of class pass.

FEBRUARY 8TH- Frozen In Time-11:00am2:00pm - Stockey Centre - Join your two favourite princesses for an afternoon of storytelling and sing along! A perfect family outing that kids of all ages will enjoy.

Little ones are encouraged to dress as the favourite character .There are two performances of this event, the first at 11am and the second at 2pm. - VIP Tickets (Orchestra Rows AA to J, but not including rows FF and A in the Orchestra): $37.95 + HST - Regular Tickets (Orchestra Rows FF and A, Mezzanine, and Balcony): $27.95 + HST All VIP seats include front of the theatre seating (Orchestra Rows AA to J, but not including rows FF and A in the Orchestra), and a photo opportunity with the cast on stage after the show during an exclusive meet and greet.

Tickets can also be purchased AT THE Box Office at 705-746-4466 extension 405 or visiting us at 2 Bay Street, Parry Sound. OR ONLINE FEBRUARY 8TH- at 1:00 pm at the Parry Sound Seniors Centre- FOR A FUN ACTIVE GAMES DAY -Lawn Bowling, Darts, Corn Hole and Golf Putting Rotation -There is no fee for this event for members $5.00 for non-members 80 James Street FEBRUARY 11TH-– 1:00pm-4:00pm – DU-

Great North Arrow

PLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street FEBRUARY 15TH- - 11 am to 3:30 pm- the popular Country Jam every third Saturday of each month, playing a musical instrument, singing and dancing or just enjoying the performers will be held at the Parry Sound Seniors Club, why not come out for the fun! Parry Sound Seniors Club - 705746-7186 - 80 James St. FEBRUARY 18TH-, 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street FEBRUARY 19th, 7:00pm-8:30pm- Parry Sound Nature Club - Polar Bears in Churchill -Celebrated local nature photographer Thom Morrissey will share photos and describe his experiences with polar bears and other wildlife in Churchill Manitoba in October 2023. 24 Mary St -Free—Suggested donation of $ 3- Mary St. Centre, 24 Mary St, Parry Sound-parrysoundnatureclub@gmail.com FEBRUARY 20th- 7PM- 4th - Festival of the Sound Connoisseur Club - Live performance Russell Braun & Carolyn Maule Connoisseur Club performances, begins at 7pm at the Festival Station Office, followed by a post-concert reception. “The Connoisseur Club is a rare and intimate experience aimed at providing our dedicated patrons with exceptional music outside of our summer season,” said Artistic Director James Campbell. “We hope that this special 4 concert series may also introduce new people into the Festival family.” “Come in out of the cold is not something we often say at Festival of the Sound. . Festival of the Sound Box Office - info@festivalofthesound.ca - 705 746 2410 or 1 866 364 0061 FEBRUARY 22nd. 7:30pm at the Stockey Centre- Wildflowers - America's #1 Tribute to Tom Petty- Tickets are $61.00 each.

Tickets can also be purchased during our business hours by calling our Box Office at 705-746-4466 extension 405 or visiting us at 2 Bay Street, Parry Sound.

FEBRUARY 25TH – 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street FEBRUARY 22ND, CELEBRTING 40 YEARS! Mark your calendars! - The Seguin Sled Dog Mail Run is happening Saturday, February 22, 2025. This year, the event will be bigger than ever as we celebrate 40 years of sled dogs, snow and wintry fun!

FEBRUARY 25TH- 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street MARCH 4TH-– 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street MARCH 8TH - Foley Agricultural Society presents A Spring Break Market 10:00am-2:00pm - Foley Spring Market-60 Rankin Lake RD Seguin, ON-705-774-4638 -Vendor Market - Crafts - BAKE sale and more Foley Agricultural Society - Nancey Virgo-nancey@cogeco.net-705-771-9310 MARCH 8TH 8:00pm - Jeff Leeson: Jokes On You Comedy Tour - . Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts - Internationally touring comedian Jeff Leeson returns to Parry Sound for a night of Live stand up comedy you will not soon forget! With over 100 million views online, find out why this is one show you absolutely Do Not want to miss! Tickets are $34.95 + HST each.-Box Office at 705-746-4466 extension 405 or visiting us at 2 Bay Street, Parry Sound.

MARCH 11TH-– 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street MARCH 15TH- 7:30 PM - KEEP THE FAITH Celebrating the music of Bon Jovi - Stockey Centre -Get ready to join Keep The Faith from Ontario, Canada, the best Bon Jovi tribute band, for an amazing ride you will be talking about for a long time to come! Over 600 shows and only getting better! - Tickets are $56.69 each. Tickets are $34.95 + HST each.-Box Office at 705746-4466 extension 405 or visiting us at 2 Bay Street, Parry Sound.

MARCH 18TH -– 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street MARCH 19TH- 7:00pm-8:30pm- Mary St. Centre, 24 Mary St, Parry Sound 24 Mary St -Parry Sound Nature Club- Suggested donation of $ 3 -- Shawanaga Island IPCA with Andrew Byrne - Shawanaga Island is located along the shoreline of Georgian Bay. The Island has been enjoyed by many for generations – for swimming, boating, picnics, camping, hunting, education, exploring and adventures. Shawanaga First Nation has been working since 2019 to establish an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area on Shawanaga Island and

In the Arctic, the sun sometimes appears to be square.

The year was 1907, twenty years before his famed disappearance, and British explorer, Percy Fawcett, was floating down the Rio Negro in a long boat, surrounded by his indigenous crew. Sources say, he saw the beast’s great triangular head lifting from the water near the bow of the boat and opened fire. He would strike the creature in the back and after a small struggle the snake was dead.

“We stepped ashore and approached the reptile with caution. It was out of action, but shivers ran up and down the body like puffs of wind on a mountain tarn. As far as it was possible to measure, a length of 45 feet lay out of the water, and 17 feet in it, making a total length of 62 feet ...” Fawcett wrote in his journal.

Percy Fawcett was known for being a no nonsense and “scrupulous matter-of-fact military man”. He was working for the Royal Geographical Society when he recorded this encounter, mapping out the Abuna and Acre rivers.

So is it possible that giant snakes exist or recently existed in the deepest parts of the Amazon? After all, the largest snake ever recognized by science was found in that general area….

its surrounding waters. The Georgian Bay shoreline and Shawanaga Island has been home to us, the Anishinabe of Shawanaga First Nation, for thousands of years. Free— parrysoundnatureclub@gmail.com BINGO NIGHTS! - MONDAY NIGHT BINGO AT 7PM- KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO NIGHTS! - MONDAY NIGHT BINGO 7PM AT THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HALL – ITS BEST TO ARRIVE BEFORE 6PM TO GET A SEAT! The Bobby Orr Community Centre (BOCC) in Parry Sound offers several free public skating sessions during the holiday season. Here's the upcoming schedule: McDougall Recreation Centre: -Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (weather permitting) Kinsmen Park Skating Schedule: Monday to Friday: - 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Skating, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM: Hockey Weekends and Holidays: - 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Skating, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Hockey - 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Skating , 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Hockey UNTIL MARCH 4TH- 10AM- EVOLVE FITNESS IN PARRY SOUND - DUMBBELLS & DIAPERS - 6 Week Program beginning January 21st - $150 includes HST- Evolve Fitness - 4 Miller Street SHAWANAGA FIRST NATION FIRE DEPARTMENT- Do you have what it takes to join this ever growing, always learning team of likeminded individuals? Jr firefighters: 15-17 Probationary firefighters: 18+ with a valid driver’s license, clean criminal records check and a willingness to learn Apply today to Firedept@shawanagafirstnation.ca WEDNESDAY MORNINGS, 10AM-11AM - GRIEF RECOVERY -SUPPORT GROUP - 6 WEEK PR0GRAM. FACILITATED WITH A REGISTERED COUNSELLOR - OPEN TO ALL COMMUNITY MEMBERS! DROP-IN - NO REGISTRATION NEEDED! 25 Church Street, Parry Sound. Contact: ripley@psfc.ca (705)746-1799 -FRIENDSHIP CENTRE In parthership with PSFC.ca PARRY SOUND FOOD BANK IS IN NEED! Food Bank use is up 40% in the Parry Sound area and the shelves are becoming very empty. Cash donations are welcomed and need as well as non perishable food.

A drop off slot is located at the top of the ramp after hours, or drop inside of the Parry Sound Harvest Share. 93 James St. Parry Sound. Monday - Friday. 9 till 3 .

Everything is so appreciated, please help if you can.

CANADORE COLLEGE WEST - Want to join the fun? Every Thursday, we host exciting activities as part of our seniors programming. From exploring your creative side, enjoying outdoor walks, exciting game days, and more. Come make some memories with us!

DO YOU HAVE A STATUS CARD? Health Department CARA Program Presents SWIMMING AT THE GRAND TAPPATTOO Available UNTIL May 1st 2025 . Members must sign in at front desk with Status Card Access cards can be provided to those with children who have not received their status cards. Contact Liz Tabobondung for more information or for access cards cra@ wasauksing.ca - 705-746-2033 ext 305 WEDNESDAY nights at the Trestle Brewing Company – Trivia at the Trestle

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

6:30 PM - 9PM MONDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAYS Pool (billiards) Downstairs Monday, Thursday and Friday- 9:00 am – 11:45 am and 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB Bid Euchre Cards Monday at 1:00 pm and Friday at 7:00 pm at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB Darts Wednesday at 1:30 pm (Sept to June only) at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB Regular Euchre Cards Friday at 1:00 pm at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB Cribbage Cards Thursday at 1:00 pm at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB THIRD SATURDAY EVERY MONTH! Jam Session (Music & Singing; Dancing) Tuesday from 10:00 am to 11:45 am at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB No admission fee for members in good standing.

Tai Chi Practice Tuesdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ($3 for paid members) at the PARRY SOUND SENIORS CLUB Aqua Fitness The Grand Tappattoo Resort - Monday (low impact) from 10:00 am to 11:30 am- Must be a member to participate. Fees: $6.00 Activity Fees: To play cards member fees are $5.00 and non-member fees $6.00.

Visitors are welcome to join us for any or all of these activities. Coffee and Tea are available FREE ADULT WEEKLY EVENT! ADHD & AUTISM MEETUP! HOSTED BY MICHELLE AINSWORTH - PARRY SOUND COUNSELLING DROP IN WEDNESDAYS 6-8 PM , GIBSON GALLERY ART AND MERCANTILE: 47 Gibson Street Parry Sound - Questions?

Call or Text: (705) 380-3450 Run by an autistic person, this is a safe, pressure- free space to meet, unmask, be authentically themselves and be creative.

No art experience necessary! Each week we will be creating a different form of art including painting, music and more! WE WELCOME ALL ADULTS WHO ARE AUTISTIC AND OR THOSE WHO HAVE ADHD, INCLUDING THOSE WHO SELF- IDENTIFY SOUPer MONDAYS! ALL winter 11am- 1 pm - ‘Come In From The Cold !’ a selection of soups, breads, or rolls. Hot Drinks andHealthy Portion of FEELING GOOD! Mary Street Centre, 24 Mary Street, Parry Sound.

THURSDAYS - FREE COMMUNITY LUNCH! Mary Street Centre, 11am-1pm. Goodwill donations Welcome! Thursday Community Lunch - Mary Street Centre , 24 Mary St., Parry Sound - 11 AM to 1 PM Parry Sound Public Library French Group - Are you learning to speak French? Would like to practice your language skills with other French speakers in Parry Sound?

Join us at the library for a weekly casual French Group. (not formal lessons) Drop-in • All skill levels welcome - Located in the auditorium. (not wheelchair accessible) Wednesdays 4:30 to 6 pm -29 Mary Street Parry Sound - askus@pspt.ca • 705-7469601 If you have an event, or know of an event, please send it to us at Greatnortharrownewspaper@gmail.com. We love ‘GOOD NEWS!’ We also welcome celebrations!

B5

Perry Township PICK UP YOU COPY OF THE GNA AT PERRY MART! Why not stop in and see everything new in store! One stop shopping!

FEBRUARY 5TH, 12TH,19TH,26TH - BINGO!!! EMSDALE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETYEVERY WEDNESDAY - Over 40 years of fun - A little bingo with BIG prizes. DOORS OPEN AT 530PM - GAMES STARTS AT 6:45 PM NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR DRINK PLEASE – The Canteen will be OPEN! 25 JOSEPH STREET www.emsdaleagriculturabociety.com FEBRUARY 13TH , JOIN US FOR A SOUP LUNCH! At the Church of the Good Shepperd in Emsdale, at noon. This is a ‘ Soup Lunch’ running from Dec to April on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Great folks, wonderful soup lunch! Everyone Welcome.

Emsdale, 2190 Hwy 592.

FEBRUARY 25TH- 4TH TUESDAY - EMSDALE – MONTHLV SENIOR FOOT CARE AT THE LEGION - CALL SARAH HARNOCK 705-4711707 -TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT - $30 PER PERSON Another NEW PROGRAM!! Brought to you by the Perry Township Recreation and Cultural Committee Presents Adult Dodgeball League Begins on January 16th! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! Runs for 8 Weeks - Games Start at 7pm - Build a Team or Come Solo!

Visit our website for more information https://townshipofperry.ca/recreation-leisure/ Ages 13+ - Hosted at Evergreen Heights Elementary Exciting New Program! The Recreation and Culture Committee Perry Township Kids' Dodgeball - Ages 8-12 – 8 weeks of Dodgeball! Begins January 13th- watch for registration details. (Not a school or board sponsored event) JOIN US FOR A SOCIAL GATHERING! Every Thursday, from 9:30 to 11:30 am there is great weekly social gathering in Emsdale open to everyone at The Parish of the Good Shepherd, Emsdale Ontario of the Good Shepherd. Serving Tea, Coffee, Desserts, and healthy snacks, and great company. There is a basket for an offering. There is also a

The Automated Teller Machine (ATM) was introduced in England in 1965.

Soup Lunch that runs at noon running from Dec to April on the 2nd Thursday of every month. Great folks. Everyone Welcome.

Emsdale, 2190 Hwy 592.

VISIT YETI’S PIZZA , THEY EVEN OFFER DELIVERY! open 3 till 7 for the winter!

OPEN Wednesday till Sunday We are also launching our new ghost pepper ranch pizza, STAY WARM! EVERGREEN HEIGHTS BREAKFAST CLUB NEEDS YOUR HELP - We are seeking donations from local businesses, community groups or families who would be willing to sponsor a week, month, or any form of monetary donation to our breakfast club program! Do you know that all of our students have access to the breakfast club? It is a great way for students to be able to try new foods with their peers that they might not try at home! We do get Some grant funding from local organizations it can cost upwards of $4,000 a month to run our program! We have specific dietary requirements following the Canadian Food guide with impeccable book keeping on a menu & financial paperwork! Breakfast Club is inclusive, meaning we Source to our school that tailor to our school allergens! Breakfast club isn't just for breakfast. We help fill hungry tummies all day! If you can help please reach out to Ms. Rennie in the school office at 705-636-5955 ext. 1 Perry Township Public Library -CALL FOR A BOARD MEMBERS Join the Library Board and help shape local programs and services! Deadline to apply is 4pm Wednesday November 20 (one position available) Application Forms available at www.townshipofperry.ca under Municipal Services • Employment Opportunities CALL FOR ARTISTS – NO DISPLAY FEE! - With numerous visitors each day, your artwork will help spruce up the Information Centre while increasing exposure to your artwork. All sales from Municipal Office/ go directly to the artist.

MAY 10TH- 10AM-2PM- Emsdale Agricultural Society Presents- Mother’s Day Market ! Free tea available for the special lady in your life. Concession available for purchase. Looking for Vendors . emsdaleagriculturalsociety.com

PERRY FIRE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES NEW RECRUITS (in this picture, Julia, Devon, and Brent) On behalf of the Perry Township Fire Department, I am pleased to announce the addition of three new recruits to our dedicated team. We are excited to welcome Ju-

Oh-Natur-Al Cotinued....

Crossword #54 Across

1

1. Crown of the head

13

5. Charitable gift

16

17

9. Determination

19

20

13. Plow pullers

2

3

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18. Bird of prey

36

19. Kennel sound

40

41

20. Gum flavor

44

45

27 34

33 37

25. Stool pigeon 26. Assail 28. Roman 700 31. Box-office winner

12

28

29

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52

35

38

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42

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11

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16. Quarry rock

24. Potpie ingredients

8

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34. Forgivable 36. Louise of "Gilligan's Island" 37. Condition 39. Not had by 40. Like skinny-dippers 42. Preordained 44. Swarm member 45. Vague feelings 47. "It's no ___!"

48. Remote button 49. Time of change

62. "So what ___ is new?"

9. Machine parts

35. Serenity spoiler

63. Implore

10. Road ___

38. Answer

11. Cruise stopover

41. Get even for

12. At that time

43. Old TV parts

15. Papal diplomat

46. Shrubbery

17. Lawn mower's path

48. Watches over

21. "John Wick" star

50. Anesthetized

23. Kind of cavity

51. Neighbor of Fiji

27. Musical exercise

52. Alpine song

28. Plates and bowls, e.g.

53. Mountain route

32. Outfielder's cry

SOLUTION ON B11

64. Stitches 65. Palm reader, e.g.

66. Bluish-green Down 1. Benign tumor 2. Kind of skeleton

53. Garden path piece

3. Abstinence from alcohol

57. Pursue, in a way

4. U-turn from WSW

58. Getting on in years

5. Out of bed

59. Acrobatic feat

6. Nutty place

61. Soft leather

7. Toothpaste flavor 8. Word in a Vrbo listing

Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Sunday: CLOSED

Great North Arrow

lia, Devon and Brent and believe that their skills and commitment will greatly enhance our service to the community. The recruitment of these talented individuals comes at a vital time as we continue to strive for excellence in fire safety and emergency response. Our new recruits will undergo extensive training, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to our department.

We trust that they will uphold the values and standards that our fire department embodies.

54. Malarial fever 29. She played Elizabeth 55.

Hotel room feature in "Elizabeth" 56. Whopper 30. Clumsy one 60. Boy king 31. Ticket tear-off 33. Holed up The most powerful earthquake to strike the United States occurred in 1811 357 Clark St Powassan, in New Madrid, Missouri. The quake ON, Canada P0H 1Z0, shook more than one million square (705) 724-2500 miles, and was felt as far as 1,000 miles away.

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

remedies and teas at your local healthfood stores.

There are many from Huntsville, Sundridge to North Bay, with very informative staff that are willing to help you find exactly what you need.

My Winter Tool Kit consists of the following; Respiractin (for sore throats and lung issues), Mullein tincture (great for any lung issues), Homeopathic remedies like; Aconite Napallus, Allium Cepa, and Apis. I like Algonquin Teas, Oregano Oil, Colloidal Silver and Goldenseal Root as well.

Here are a couple of recipes that might come in handy.

Respiratory Tea: 2 cups of water in saucepan Add; one medium sized onion, washed and with skin on Cook for 15 minutes Remove from heat, strain and add; Juice of ½ lemon 1tsp honey Take before bed for 3 to 7 days Pine Needle Tea Gather white pine needles (no bark) Wash and place 1 handful of pine needles in 2 cups boiling water Reduce to simmer for 15 minutes Remove from heat, strain and enjoy Note: Boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, enhance cardiovascular health, provides antioxidants and antiaging, Vitamin A & C I also like to use the steam from this as well as cedar tea to inhale when congested.

Chia Micro Greens: Sprinkle Chia Seeds on wet paper towel and place in window.

Water daily Within 3 days they will germinate By 7 to 10 days you have healthy micro greens ready to eat.

Add to salads, sandwiches, soups and smoothies.

Harvest with scissors.

Tip for lemon or lime longevity....place in a mason jar, add water to cover fruit. Put on a lid and place in the refrigerator. Your fruit will last at least 4 to 6 months!

Protect your Lips!!!! Lip Balm: 1 TBSP coconut oil 1 TBSP shea butter 1 TBSP castor oil 1 TBSP Bees wax Place in a saucepan over med/low heat.

Add a small amount of water - 1tsp. Once combined remove from heat and place in a small container. Check your local Dollar Store for small glass jars.

You can add essential oils if you desire a flavour like mint or lemongrass.

Jewelry Cleaner!

1 TBSP salt 1 TBSP Baking Soda 1 TBSP Dish Soap 1 Cup water Mix ingredients well.

1 piece of Aluminum Foil Heat water.

Cover bottom of bowl or container with foil Pour in hot water.

Add remaining ingredients.

Place jewelry in solution and let soak for 5 to 10 minutes.

Rinse with cool water and dry. Discard the solution after use.

I hope these recipes and tips come in handy for you.

You can always buy ready prepared products just remember to read the labels and make sure they are from a reputable source and as natural as possible.

Let’s try to keep it Oh-Natur-Al-Eh!

B6

Powassan THERE IS PIZZA IN TOWN! Hummingbird Pizza is open for business! and Patricia Kunkel is ready to serve you an amazing pizza! Homemade dough, and great pizza made in an Italian pizza oven. They are open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from noon -2pm and 4-9pm. Call 705-724-5464 to order.

PICKLEBALL! AT 250 CLARK! Three Monday sessions -9AM, 10AM, 11AM. Sign up at recreation@powassan.net TUESDAY EVENTS AT 250 CLARK – 9AM LINE DANCING – 10AM UKELE CLUB, 11AM SENIORS FITNESS- 1PM ART CLASS- 4:30PM LASER TAG- 6PM ROBOTICS CLUB- 9am- Line Dancing – 7PM BOOT CAMP WEDNESDAYS EVENTS AT 250 CLARK – 1PM YOGA- 1PM SENIORS CARDS- 4PM- KARATE5PM-KARATE-6PM BEAVERSA AND CUBS TUESDAYS 10-11:30AM- UKULELE CLUB AT 250 CLARK , UKULELES PROVIDED, NO MUSICAL TALENT REQUIRED! Ukuleles provided. No musical talent required All welcome! $2. drop in rate Come have fun!

THURSDAY Events at 250 Clark -9AM – LINE DANCING -11AM – SENIOR’S FITNESS 12NOON – AL-ANON - 2PM – STEP DANCE CLUB- 4:30pmLASER TAG- 6pm- ROBOTICS CLUB- 7PM- POWER CLASS. We Need Volunteer Drivers!! We are looking to recruit more volunteer drivers to deliver hot/frozen meals and drive clients to and from appointments. Volunteers are reimbursed per km for the use of their own vehicle. Make a difference in your community Contact us to find out how! 705-724-6028 or 1-888-521-0000 - Community Support Services.

250 Clark - Did you know we have a used clothing store at 250 Clark? It is a wonderful day to shop local and buy some recycled goods!

Stop in today at Grace House Powassan from 9-1pm. Please use the west door to access the store.

7pm- Storytime in the Woods (on Facebook"Events at 250 Clark" Join us on Thursdays at 2 pm for some fun!

Groovin’ with Grandma is exclusive to the CCC! It’s a freestyle movement class based on dancing and letting loose! It’s gentle exercise and good for you whatever your fitness level! Come for the exercise and stay for a coffee! Admission fee is optional and the suggested donation is $2 - $5 Coffee, tea and soft drinks are available for purchase.

Let's Get Active! Catch up with friends and make new acquaintances ! FREE Drop-in... No need to register Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. Held at the Powassan Royal Canadian Legion - Branch 453 - Tuesdays at 9:30 am On Thursdays, Jeannine Welton is offering weekly Yoga with Fascial Maneuvers from 6-7pm. Cost is $10 per class, and you pay at the class. This type of yoga involves simple movements incorporating gentle twists and breathwork that anyone can do! It is designed to increase your mobility and reduce pain. ALL welcome! Save the date!

Seniors’ Fitness classes with Joyce! Join in on this dynamic class for decades, and always puts some “FUN” into her classes. The classes are on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10:30 to 11:30am. Come out for the fun!

Let’s Get Active! Free Classes! Join us for a onehour class focusing on balance and strength.

This is drop in- no registration required. Powassan Legion Branch 453, Tuesdays at 9:30 am Powassan Meals On Wheels has been around for many, many years and continues to provide access to nutrition as well as a wellness check. We are looking for someone to volunteer for every other Wednesday at 11 am.

Interested? Please contact our office at 705724-6028 for more details.

Karate classes at 250 Clark are ongoing! They happen twice weekly- Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. Spaces available now. Email recreation@powassan.net to register.

250 Clark - Tuesday is- 9am- Seniors' Line Dancing 11am- Seniors' Fitness 4:30pm- Nerf Wars 6:30pm- Adult Volleyball 8pm- Body Fitthe final class!

Volleyball at 250 Clark, Adult Players only, Tuesdays 6:30-9pm. $5 drop-in fee.

POWASSAN FOOD BANK - Every Monday 10am to 12pm (donation drop off only) *no client services. Wednesday’s for client’s food pick up. Evening foodbank 5:30 to 8pm (for working clients only) Any questions please contact Diane (705) 492-3958 BATTERIES - Want to recycle your used batteries? Head to @Powassan Home Hardware!

There’s a recycle box on the second counter that is for used batteries. Home Hardware has a battery recycling program that is Canada-wide.

POWASSAN LIBRARY I love the library, that’s our theme for the month! You’re going to love what we’ve got lined up for you this February starting with another Wii and video game night with the Voodoos on February 10th - teens and tweens and in betweens, all welcome! If gaming’s not your thing but jewellery making is, be sure to join Breya on February 14th for a DIY jewellery making night! Our little readers can enjoy another visit with the Voodoos too at Raising Readers on January 27th when we’ll be cooking up some great stories, and maybe something to eat too!

We invite all of our patrons and members of our community to come to our I ❤️ My Library event on February 13th from 1 PM -2:30 PM. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our patrons and our donors for their continued support of the library. Sweet treats and hot drinks for all!

And let’s not forget to mention that as part of our Seniors Community grant, we’re proud to offer two more free events for seniors, “Fraud 101: Know. Protect. Prevent.” as part of our lunch and learn series on February 19th at 11:30 and at our Senior’s Café on February 26th at 11:30, Lindsay will walk everyone through navigating how doctors and health care in Ontario can be accessed online.

Newsworthy: Our annual winter Photo Contest is back! Get outside and capture some of winter’s fun and majesty, submit your photos to powlib@gmail.com. Two categories, 9-14 years old and 14+. Contest closes February 27th, winner announced early March.

Lunch & Learn -February 19th at 11:30 am -

Great North Arrow

Smart choices, safe wallet: join us for Fraud 101 and Know, Protect, and Prevent yourself from being a victim of fraud! Courtesy of our guest speaker Stephanie Senecal, Senior Support Unit Coordinator for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Library Café February 26th at 11:30 am -Join our tech expert to learn more about online health services! Doctors, prescriptions, specialists, and referrals are at your fingertips! Come learn about this incredible resource available to you.

Feburary 14th from 3:15 - 4:15 pm -Join Breya to make your own jewellry with premium beads and charms! Customize, create, and design your collection to suite your style. And, we will have snacks!!

Current Artist: February 2025 Kimberly a.

Studio Art Gallery -We are excited to once again welcome Kimberly a. Studio to our Art Gallery this February! Thank you to Linda Penney for organizing this gallery showing with the library.

Come and enjoy Kimberly’s diverse and colourful collection of artwork, it is charming and unique, a must see!

Our Regular Events:***Checkout our Events Calendar for a schedule of all of our programming.*** For Adults Book Club - Tuesday February 25th at 5:30 pm The First Book of a Series!

French Conversation Group - Tuesdays at 11:00 am Friends of The Library - First Monday Monthly at 4:00 pm Genealogy with Mary Heasman - Thursdays at 10:00 am - Discover Your Past Library Board Meeting - February 24th at 6:15 pm Motivational Writing Group - Wednesdays biweekly at 12:00 pm Paul The Straw Hat Man - 3rd Wednesday Monthly at 10:30 am Powassan Purls Knitters - Fridays at 10:00 am Rug Hookers - Thursday February 6th at 1:00 pm Scrabble - Mondays at 3:45 pm *** This Month Only! *** I ❤️ My Library! - February 13th at 1:00 pm Did you know this month is love your library month? We invite all of our patrons and members of our community to come to our ‘Love the Library’ event on February 13th from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. This is an opportunity to for us to thank our patrons and our donors for their continued support of the library. Sweet treats and hot drinks for all!

February 19th at 11:30 am - Lunch & Learn: Know. Prevent. Protect.-Smart choices, safe wallet: join us for Fraud 101 and Know, Protect, and Prevent yourself from being a victim of fraud! Courtesy of our guest speaker Stephanie Senecal, Senior Support Unit Coordinator for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

February 26th at 11:30 am Library Cafe: Tia Health and Online Health Services-Join our tech expert to learn more about online health services! Doctors, prescriptions, specialists, and referrals are at your fingertips! Come learn about this incredible resource available to you.

No sign up required. ✦ For Teens & Tweens ✦ Teen Computers/Hangout - Weekdays from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pmTeens and tweens are welcome to meet with friends to chat, hang out and chill!

Computers, WiFi, board games and musical instruments are available. *** This Month Only! *** Teen VR and Gaming Drop-In with the Voodoos!

- February 10th 3:30 to 5:30 pm Tween DIY Jewellery Night! - February 14th from 3:15 pm to 4:15 pm - Teens and tweens, come make your own diy jewellery! Join Breya to make your own jewellery with premium beads and charms! Customize, create, and design your collection to suite your style. And, we will have snacks!!

Out & About Photo Contest! - Entries accepted until February 28th - Do you have some pics to share with us? Our annual Out and About contest is on now until February 28th! Submit up to three pics to powlib@gmail.com. Your shots may be featured on our social media and website. Winners are divided into two categories: ages 9 - 13 and 14+ You could win a gift card to your choice: Starbucks, Sephora, Northgate, or Winners! ✦ For The Kids ✦Toddler Time Special Valentines Day Event with Rose-Alma!- February 11th at 10:30 am- Join Rose-Alma for a special Toddler Tale Valentine’s Day Event! Enjoy some Valentines Day stories, make a Valentine’s craft, and enjoy a little treat with new friends. No sign up required.Kids’ Computer Hour - Weekdays 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm LaLeche League Meet-Up - 3rd Tuesday Monthly at 11:00 am Music with Bernie - February 12th at 10:30 am Paul The Straw Hat Man - 3rd Wednesday Monthly at 10:30 am Raising Readers - Thursdays at 6:15 pm-The Voodoos are joining us on February 27th for an extra special Raising Readers Program!

Toddler Time - Daily from Monday to Friday at 10:30 am

Library Services:✦ Services ✦Room Rentals: Tech Help:Tech appointments are available on a weekly basis — appointment required.

Please call the library at 705-724-3618 or send us an email at powlib@gmail.com to book your half hour appointment.

Life Labs Blood Work: Mondays and Thursdays - 8:00 am to 10:45 am.

Thank you!

Thank you for taking the time to read our monthly newsletter!

We have so much to offer, it’s always worth finding out what’s happening here at the library -- we have something for everyone!

Check out our webpage www.powassanlibrary.com where your library card allows you to access our catalogue, browse new additions, download audio books & ebooks, and even put books on hold!

FEBRUARY 19TH- 3RD- WEDNESDAY – TROUT CREEK - MONTHLV SENIOR FOOT CARE AT THE LEGION - CALL SARAH HARNOCK 705-471-1707 -TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT - $30 PER PERSON

Stewardesses is the longest word typed with only the left hand.

BAIN LAKE CHRONICALS

My Funny Valentine

Tamara Mathews

I make breakfast for LSL, aka; Long Suffering Larry, everyday.

One could see it as an act of kindness and caring, but in reality I want the man around for a while yet. I have a very long ‘To-Do’ list and he's not get’n out that easily. Also, if I don’t make breakfast, he acts like a student when their OSAP has run dry, living off peanut butter and bread.

We have a comfortable routine; Larry sits at the kitchen island whilst I muck about cooking up homegrown eggs and whole grain toast, (yes, he puts peanut butter on it), all the while chatting and bantering back and forth, as we do.

One morning last week stands out particularly; I set the plate of food down in front of Himself, then turned back to clean up, nattering nonstop, as I do. Exaggerated movements caught my eye…. I turned back to find him nodding his fool-head, agreeing to what I was ranting about, but it seems I neglected to include a fork with The Royal

meal. Instead of lifting his arse up off the barstool to retrieve said fork, he made a huge show of eating his eggs with…. the butterknife.

Evidently my wonderful husband suffered some sort of temporary, spontaneous paralysis of his limbs. Upon inspection, I declared him sound enough, (well, physically-sound at least), and instructed the light-of-my-life where to go, how to get there, and suggested he could pick up the fork along the way back.

It was an act of pure compassion, (and that never-ending-list), when I poured my love a glass of water to help subside his choking-fit, the result of inhaling a toast crumb from laughing too hard.

My very own 'Grand Tor-men-tor'. It must be said like 'Tor-men-tor', whilst envisioning some sort of demented super-hero to fit the title.

My mother lost my dad at the age of only

62. She mourned his loss until the day she passed away some 25 years later. It gives me small comfort to think that somewhere they are gliding, cheek-to-cheek across a cosmic dance floor somewhere.

One thing I learned while watching my mother move through life without the love of her life is she would’ve given anything to have my father back. Even the things that would drive her crazy.

Nothing gave my dad more pleasure than irritating the hell out of my mother, and since mom was highly irritable anyways, it was always an ongoing thing.

He would carefully place his lunch plate, fork, knife, spoon and glass on top of the dishwasher racks for mom to find later that day, sending her spewing obscenities, he'd be long gone back to his shop by that point.

Mom would be trying to sew on the industrial sewing machine in her furniture manufacturing business. Sewing heavy upholstery fabric takes concentration and focus. Dad would be in the far end of the building, whistling a nameless tune, loudly and off-key. It would take mom a bit before she realized, “… my shoulders were up by my ears…”, causing her to holler out, “Howard, STOP!!”

He would stop, giggling as only he could, (a big-bear-of-a-man), pausing for maybe 30 seconds, just long enough until he could hear the sewing machine start up again.

Then he’d begin whistling, a different tune mind you, but a tune just as loud and offkey.

And the fight would continue anew….

They had a bond that could not be broken by death or time and one I envied.

That is until about ten years ago when the farmer next door began to look different to me. Somehow, despite an age difference of almost 10 years, that guywho-live-next-door all my life, became my very own ‘Grand Tor-men-tor’, just like my dad to mom.

We click for some reason; we feed off each other's strengths, we’re a team.

Though I suspect the ratio is lopsided as he drags me back from the brink far more than I him.

All it takes is his calm, “There’s nothing we can’t fix.”, attitude to bring me off the ledge. He’s there to help me curse when I’ve had a bad day. He’s there to sit quietly and hold my hand when the world is just too unfair. He’s my sounding board to all life’s problems, and the strength to keep going when I feel I can’t make one more step.

And he’s there to wonderfully irritatethe-hell-out-of-me, my very own ‘Grand Tor-men-tor’.

February brings many great things; Groundhog Day, Family Day, the anniversary of me making a turbulent entrance into this world, and of course, Valentine's Day. While most couples celebrate with flowers, wining and dining, we’ll be blissfully engaged in yet another round of who-canirritate-who-more, and I wouldn’t want it any other way!

Happy Valentine's Day to my very own ‘Grand Tor-men-tor’.

ALL HEART PET RESCUE – WHEN ONE DOOR CLOSES ANOTHER ONE OPENS

(in this picture: saying goodbye to 510B) POWASSAN: Kathy Jeanneault: 3 years and 2 months ago, a dream of mine took flight and became a reality. It was during the pandemic, but I remained determined. I pictured a cute little a thrift store "with a twist" that would bring joy and positivity to our community. A charming boutique was born on Main Street Powassan, filled with nostalgic music and warm smiles from friendly faces. All money raised, excluding rent, was donated to All Heart Pet Rescue, helping to alleviate the financial burden of veterinary care for the animals. In October, our landlord shared their plans to expand their business, and we were presented with the challenge to find a new home. I have been tirelessly searching for the perfect location, a place that would allow us to grow and expand our mission. I am thrilled to announce that Nadine Marie, owner of the former Stevanns Video on Main Street in Powassan, has graciously offered to rent us a new space. Although my initial plan to secure an even larger location did not come to fruition due to financial constraints, I remain grateful for the opportunity to continue our store. I am so grateful to Maddie J, Christine B, Jane F, Linda B, Bonnie D, Linda M, Eric N, and Sandy for their dedication and countless hours of volunteer work. Their selflessness and kindness have been the driving force behind our success. I also express my appreciation to our lovely little town, contributors, crafters, shoppers, and everyone who has supported us along the way. We will cherish the memories of decorating our windows and spreading joy throughout our community. I invite you all to join us on this new chapter in our journey, as we relocate to 595 Main Street, beside Powassan Liquor Store. Thank you for being part of our story, and we look forward to continuing to uplift our community together.

If an infant becomes blind soon after they’re born they will still almost always see images in their dreams, but infants born with blindness will most likely never have dreams with images. People who were born blind do still have very emotionally intense dreams which include hearing, smells, feeling and taste. Now that’s an interesting fact about dreams.

Monday:CLOSED Tuesday:7:30 AM - 3:00 PM Wednesday:7:30 AM - 3:00 PM Thursday:7:30 AM - 3:00 PM Friday:7:30 AM - 3:00 PM Saturday:7:30 AM - 2:00 PM Sunday: CLOSED

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

The Blue Roof Restaurant

10419 Hwy 124, Sundridge, ON, Canada (705) 384-7300

A great family restaurant to enjoy birthdays, party’s and a lot more! The Blue Roof has home style cooked meals and lots of homemade goods! Also with a new delicious lunch special each day! So what are you waiting for? Stop by the Blue Roof in Sundridge for a great meal!

B7

South River CHECK OUT THE NEW THRIFT STORE! Located at 93 Ottawa Ave! ‘THAT FITS YOU!’ OPEN 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Fridays Closed on Saturdays 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sundays Drop by and see what treasures you can find this week - our inventory is always changing and we look forward to welcoming you into our store!

Discover stylish apparel, home goods, and accessories ! Give us a like on Facebook to see exciting updates about new items dropping! Happy Thrifting :) FEBRUARY 22ND, STARTING AT 5PM -SPAGHETTI DINNER- ITALIAN SPAGHETTI SERVED WITH A VARIETY OF SAUCES - COLESLAW, HOMEMADE DESSERTS, - TEA AND COFFEE ADULTS $15.00 - CHILDREN 6 AND UNDER & 7.50 SOUTH RIVER MACHAR COMMUNITY CENTER - 1 LINCOLN AVE. SOUTH RIVER - Meal Vouchers available at Jessie’s Kwik Way -ALL PROCEEDS GO TOWARDS THE CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AT OUR FALL FAIR SEPTEMBER 6TH 2025 . FREE PUBLIC SKATING Every Wednesday and Sunday Wednesday 1-3 ,Sunday 1-2:30 -Limited Skates , Snack Bar IS OPEN! Helmets Available ,Skate Sharpening $8 South River-Machar Community Centre , IA Lincoln Street, South River. Interested in Sponsoring Public Skating? Contact the Village of South River 705-386-2573 admin@ southriver.ca Supporting curling in our community for over 70 years! Try CURLING! CURLING CLINIC- Learn the basics of how to curl ,Try throwing / delivering curling rocks two ways: l) Crouched I Sliding method 2) Standing Stick rnethod , Curling equipment provided for participants.

Please bring clean running shoes to change into (no outdoor footwear on ice)', and a helmet if you have one. "Try if, you’ll like it!”

WOMEN’S ONLY RESOURCE CENTRE INVITES YOU TO DROP BY! Our Free Donation Centre is overflowing with household wares, winter coats and clothing! Stop in if you’re looking for something or to browse through!

NOVEMBER 5TH- 5:30PM- Almaguin Adult Learning INTERNET SAFETY BASICS - FREE 6 week class, begins Tuesday, LEARN ABOUT: Common online scams , Protecting your privacy, Shopping Securely, Social Media Safety, Email best practices, And more...

Sign up is required The Women's Own Resource Centre encourages you to “SHARE THE WARMTH THIS WINTER” WORC is STILL collecting warm winter outerwear for our Annual Warm Winter Clothing Exchange KEEP OUR COMMUNITY WARM THIS WINTER DONATE WINTER CLOTHING! We are accepting new or gently used winter clothing for children, men and women. The following items are needed: boots, snow pants, winter coats, hats, scarves, mitts and any warm winter clothing. Donations will provide assistance to local individuals or families in need.

Donations can be dropped off at our office Monday-Thursday from 105 Ottawa Avenue in South River FROZEN MEAL DELIVERY! MEALS ARE $7.00 & CONSIST OF MAIN COURSE & DESSERT "DELIVERED EVERY TUESDAY - ELIGIBLE PERSONS INCLUDE: - SENIORS 65+ -THOSE WHO ARE TERMINALLY/CHRONICALLY ILL - THOSE WITH A DEVELOPMENT DISABILITY - THOSE RECENTLY DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL (I.E. POST SURGERY) EAST PARRY SOUND Support Services FOR MORE INFO & TO ORDER - CONTACT CSS @ 705-724-6028 WE’RE OPEN! Early Child and Family Centre EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY FROM 9:30 AM-12PM. - SOUTH RIVER -DSSAB - 16 Toronto Ave -705-3862552 -ext. 5452 To register please go to the following link. All participants must register prior to attending; For more information regarding our programs you can visit our Facebook page EarlyON Child and Family Centres in the District of Parry Sound or visit our website @ wvvwloreverychild.ca South River Scoops 'N' More has EVEN MORE to offer! TRY OUR AMAZING NEW PIZZA! Come on out and enjoy your favourite desserts and treats featuring Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream, fresh subway sandwiches, AND ICE CREAM cakes made to order!

281 Hwy 124, South River.

The ACS (Free Store) is currently accepting clothing at this time. Please drop off on Wednesday and Thursdays between 124pm. Drop off address is 131 Ottawa Ave South River ON P0A 1X0 PLEASE SUPPORT THE SOUTH RIVER FREE STORE! The (free) clothing closet in South River has reopened at the old Chalmers United Church beside the public school. Hours are Wednesdays & Thursdays 12pm-4pm incase anyone needs anything but most specifically if you have clothing to donate, the pickings are slim at the moment. They’re only excepting clothing right now, no household goods.

Why not meet at the Legion for some fun! Euchre and Darts! Euchre. Thursday 2-4 pm - Darts. Tues 6:30-9 pm Let’s Get Active! Free Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and

Great North Arrow

strength. This is drop in- no registration required. Friendly Circle Srs. Centre Fridays at 11am.

Council Meeting’s Time and Date are now held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month (except August and December Stand Up! A twice per week for FREE ! 12 weeks FALLS PREVENTION program for older adults Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 10 am at Algonquin Fitness - South River - Register with Instructor Heidi Scott 705-386-7127 (LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE) Algonquin Fitness & Wellness Centre community SOUTH RIVER FRIENDLY CIRCLE CLUB: SOUTH RIVER FRIENDLY CIRCLE WEEKLY ACTIVITIES MONDAYS: • YOGA 10:00AM. CONTACT Peggy parent 705-386-0093.

• BRIDGE GROUP 1:00 PM, CONTACT Hazel Hornibrook 705-334-0590 • CRIBBAGE 6:30 PM CONTACT Andy Parent 705-386-0093 WEDNESDAYS: • SEWING,'CRAFT GROUP AM INTO AFTERNOON, CONTACT Pearl Ivens 705-3867434, first to third Wednesday • SOUTH RIVER FOOT CARE CLINIC 9:00AM4:00PM, SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH. call Sarah at 705-471-1707 for an appointment.

• ALMAGUIN QUILTING GROUP 10:00 AM, 4th 'Wednesday only, CONTACT Sandra Train, 705-386-0275 • CHAIR YOGA IO:OOAM. CONTACT Susan Arnold 705492-8505 • SHUFFLEBOARD tOOPM, CONTACT Harry smith 705-383-9745 • WELLNESS CLINICS 3:00 PM First Wednesday of the month, Drop In • SOUTH RIVER STORY TELLING PROJECT 6:30 PM. Being launched by New Adventures in Sound Art (NASA), who are providing an opportunity to aged 55+ SENIORS from the region to share their stories with friends and supporters, Supported by funds from the Government of Canada New Horizons for Seniors program.

THURSDAYS • DAISY CHAIN (DROP IN GROUP FOR WOMEN - September to June) 10:00AM, CONTACT Linda Clarke 705-386-2333 • BRIDGE 1:00PM. CONTACT Hazel Hornibrook 705-384-0590 FRIDAYS: • STAY ON YOUR FEET DROP IN EXERCISE GROUP FOR SENIORS, 11AM-, FACILITATOR: Debbie Drumm (SPONSORED BY THE EAST PARRY SOUND COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES) - FREE TO SENIORS • EUCHRE pm, Drop In, casual, fun card games.

AND IF ARE INTERESTED IN STARTING A GROUP FOR OTHER ACTIVITIES such as POOL OR SNOOKER, DARTS. CARDS, OR ANY OTHER IDEAS. PLEASE CONTACT PEGGY PARENT AT 705-492-3981 SOUTH RIVER LEGION BRANCH # 390 ‘Why not meet at the Legion for some good times and fun!’

We'd like to ask for anyone who can spare a couple of hours a month, to help us out by volunteering. We need people to help with bingo, in the kitchen, to help with our meat draw and more. Members, we count on you, but you don't have to be a member to help out. Students are welcome as well. Please pm your name and phone # or drop in to the bar and let us know you can help. Thank you so very much to the current volunteers. We couldn’t do it without you!

HOURS AND SCHEDULE - SUNDAYS AND MONDAYS CLOSED - TUESDAYS, OPEN – 4PM – 9PM (OR LATER) DARTS 6PM-9PM - WEDNESDAYS , OPEN - 2PM-8PM THURSDAYS, OPEN – 2PM – 8PM (OR LATER) WEDNESDAYS, EUCHRE - 2PM-4PM, WEDNESDAYS, BINGO 6:30PM - 10PM, 1ST AND 3RD. THURSDAY OF THE MONTH FRIDAYS, OPEN 2PM-9PM (OR LATER) MEAT DRAW – 3PM-6PM - BURGERS 5PM7PM SATURDAYS, OPEN 2PM to WHENEVER DANCES OR EVENTS AS BOOKED . Alcoholics Anonymous group meetings in our basement every Monday at 7:30.

Please spread the word.

FEBRUARY 8TH- SOUTH RIVER LIONS CLUB PRESENT WINTERFEST 2025 DINNER ! - TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! Dinner / Auctions & Live Entertainment SRM Community Centre (upstairs) Tickets $30.00/person CASH BAR Braised Beef with potatoes/veg , Dessert / Coffee -Social 6pm, Dinner 7pm, Live Auction 8pm -Entertainment by Shot Gun Nun from 9pm $10@ door for Entertainment Only.

APRIL 4TH, 5TH , 11TH , 12TH – 7PM- Highland Players of Almaguin ‘CRAZY QUILT CLUB’, Hold those dates tickets coming soon. Get the gang together -South River Public School SOUTH RIVER LEGION FEBRUARY 12TH - 2ND WEDNESDAY – MONTHLV SENIOR FOOT CARE AT THE LEGION - CALL SARAH HARNOCK 705-4711707 -TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT - $30 PER PERSON LEARN TO LIFT 4-WEEK STRENGTH TRAINING PROGRAM C. MASTER YOUR FORM, BUILD STRENGTH, AND ELEVATE YOUR FITNESS! I-HOUR WEEKLY CLASSES WEDNESDAYS @ 7:00 PM OR SATURDAYS @ 7:00 PM -gym124southriver@gmail.com 705-955-2577 | 705-717-0408

At any given time, there are at least 1,800 thunderstorms in progress over the earth’s atmosphere. if not…why not? They are involved The Whitestone Council ogize, every year by paying on behalf of their community.

Meeting • In June 2021, Belvedere returned

Part 2 Catharina Bowers

Thursday, January 23 Deputy Mayor, Joe Lamb was in the chair. (the following is my opinion with files from the agenda) The first thing that caught my interest was the Zoom delegate, Mr. Don Carmichael who was the spokes person on the Zoom meeting with Whitestone Council. Don was appointed by the province to be on The Board of Management of Belvedere Heights a retirement campus of care in Parry Sound. This facility is owned by 8 municipalities in the Parry Sound District including Whitestone, who happens to be a 6.12% share holder. This location is right overlooking the harbour of Parry Sound. A prime, and gorgeous location, some have described as having a million-dollar view in Parry Sound.

• In June 2021, Belvedere returned $700,000 excess operating reserve funds to the Municipalities mentioned below, of which Whitestone is a partial owner/member.

• Because total reserves of $2.3M exceeded the maximum allowable 15 per cent of budget by $700,000 Whitestone received it’s allotment of $42,850.

Don Charmichael, a very nice, formidable gentleman who was the one who matched the donations to the Whitestone Nursing Station renovation, and a generous donor to the West Parry Sound Health Centre. He mentioned that most of the municipalities have retained these funds in a reserve available to return to Belvedere. However, when the funds were returned to Whitestone, it wasn’t stipulated that they had to go into a reserve fund in case it had to be returned to Belvedere.

So the funds in the amount of $42.850 was deposited into the operating budget. It was received as a windfall. There were no strings attached. (Or so we thought) So now Mr. Carmichael went on to say that these funds are needed to be returned to Belvedere, since they need it for the required payment of designer from last year for the 22 private room addition design costs to the original 102 bed facility.

Why is it that some things that involves building, the budget is never met, there always have to be changes to the design, creating extra costs. Why don’t they design something and encourage their clients to leave it as is. Build within their budget.

Maybe if the public were to get more vocal and demand that there, be honesty and accountability then there would be fewer situations where the public pays, yet they have little to say about it, the cost or the design.

I'm curious...Did the 8 municipalities see the design and approve of it prior to the shovel going into the ground? If so, I apol-

$700,000 excess operating reserve funds to the 8 municipalities.

• Because total reserves of $2.3M exceeded the maximum allowable 15 per cent of budget by $700,000 by the Act that rules nursing homes.

The paperwork shows that the Board of Management passed resolution on Sep. 25, 2024, to request return of these funds: In 2021 the share’s were as follows: Parry Sound 8.81% $61,684, Carling 10.68% $74,760, Whitestone 6.12% $42,850 , McDougall 7.76% $54,307, McKellar 6.77% $47,397, McMurrich Monteith 2.30% $16,129, Archipelago 21.78% $152,467, Seguin 35.77% $250,406, Totals 100% $700,000 The Residences of Belview by the Bay at Belvedere Heights is a two-storey complex consisting of 24 (life lease) apartment-style units ranging from 759 to 1124 square feet.

Now as I was listening to the council meeting there are only 17 life leases left. What happened to the other 7? Has the board of management been buying these life lease apartments back as they become available? As far as we know there is nothing untoward happening.

I hope that the $42,850 Whitestone’s share of the required funds will not be going towards the purchase back of life leases. The reason I mention this is because as I continued to listen to the meeting, Life Leases were constantly being brought up my Carmichael.

I think personally, and it is only my humble opinion that when you give somebody something, you give it. If I give my grandson $25 for Christmas, and on St Patrick’s Day I ask that he return the $25 …there used to be a term for that, but politically incorrect to say.

When you return funds, and you think you will need it back, say so, and proper accounting can be made. I think it is rather funny, that they all put it into a reserve account in case Belvedere wanted it back.

Yet Whitestone was not told that according to my sources. So, there was no reason to make a special reserve account.

Where do you think the term ‘trouble maker’ came from?

With this group also at another Zoom meeting about 2 years ago, when Deputy Mayor Lamb was asking too many questions to suit them but finally he got the answers he was looking for, a female voice at the conclusion of the meeting said, ‘ Those Whitestone trouble makers!’ Then she was told the microphones were still on. Yup, I heard it loud and clear. I took it as quite a compliment in the long run.

Nothing wrong with being a Whitestone troublemaker!

Catharina

Wayne C. Smith April 30, 1942 — January 25, 2025 Magnetawan

Peacefully at the West Parry Sound Health Centre on Saturday January 25, 2025. Wayne, beloved son of the late Norman and Mary Smith, was in his 83rd year.

Dear brother of Merrilee Chapman (late Jim), Barry Smith (Christine), Cheryl Battle (Keith), Lenore Morris (Bob), Darla Kivell (Dan) and the late Wenda Moore (late Don).

Beloved best friend of Brandon McCracken and his son Terance.

Wayne will be fondly remembered by all his nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Private family arrangements have been entrusted to the Opatovsky Funeral Home-Dempster Chapel in Burks Falls.

If desired, memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family.

Foote’s General Store

Monday to Friday: 6:30am-7pm Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Nipissing’s Home of the GNA

2633 ON-534, Nipissing, ON P0H 1W0

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

B8

Aries

We start the month with Venus, the true lover girl, in your sign from the 4th, marking your debut. It’s a chance to reinvent your wardrobe, change your hair, and flirt with the world. You’ll feel empowered, like your self-worth is on fire— in the best of ways—so ask for what you want, and then add tax. The Full Moon in Leo lights up your zone of creativity, making it the perfect time to launch a new creative project, with the heat of inspiration under your heels. Yet, with many of the planets, including the Sun in Pisces, opening up your unconscious, you'll uncover the ghouls and monsters that have been blocking your way from stepping into your full potential.

Get radically honest about who you are.

Taurus

For the whole month, I think what you’ll have on your mind is your community, your allies, and the people you dream about meeting.

First, we have the Full Moon in Leo, lighting up your zone of belonging. A good question to ask yourself is: Do you have the right mirrors around you, those who always remind you of who you are, no matter how far you may stray? As the planets line up in Pisces, they percolate in your zone of friendship, inviting new people into your orbit—unexpected connections that open your world to fresh thoughts, new philosophies, and opportunities to share your art in ways you never imagined. As the scholar Audre Lorde once said, 'The future of our world is in our hands, and it is our obligation to free it.' This includes freeing your artful gifts.

Gemini

It might be a slow start to your year, Gemini, but as Jupiter in Gemini retrograde ends on the 4th, expect things to pick up speed. Did last year teach you anything about how you might have been limiting your own horizons? If so, now is the time to put those lessons into action and commit to the hunger that lies beneath the fear.

The Full Moon in Leo is gutsy—it will push you to make bold statements in public, and you’ll have no choice but to stand by them. Just remember to have fun along the way. Lastly, your career is about to take an experimental spin.

If old contracts end, don’t mourn them—it’s simply clearing space for something new. The New Moon in Pisces on the 28th gives you the chance to set some bold, visionary desires that could quantum leap your success, however you choose to define it.

Cancer

What has Mars retrograde taught you about claiming your space and walking with more royalty? It’s been a long transit, so if you still feel a little discombobulated even after it ends on the 24th, don’t worry. Sometimes it takes a couple of weeks to fully settle into your new reality.

Either way, once it clears, you have a clean run ahead—one where you can mark your steps with more boldness than you’ve had in a long while. All the ironclad chains are broken. The Full Moon in Leo becomes a declaration of your newly ignited inner fire, reminding you that you are worthy of being bigger than the wound, the fear, and the self-imposed limitations that have kept you from making revolutionary changes in your life. This is your moment to reclaim your personal agency and silence the lies that once ruled over it.

Leo

This is your annual Full Moon opportunity, where revelations and epiphanies about who you are—and who you are not—make their way to you on the 13th. Clear out your diary, meditate, and connect with your ancestors, because if you feel like you haven’t fully owned your light yet, this is the moment for a cracking open of the shell. This is a powerful lunar phase, one that could bring clarity about your true self.

By the 24th, Mars retrograde will be over, and since December, it has been reshaping your identity, forcing you to ask whether your desires come from the soul or from the expectations the culture has placed on you. Now is the time to commit to your true desires with your full heart. The New Moon in Pisces is like a gothic queen, inviting you to transform your creativity into abundance. Whether that means attracting a new creative partner you could make big money with or simply recognising the value of your own creations, it’s time to step into the next level of manifestation and success.

Virgo

This is the first full month with the South Node in Virgo, and you’ll start receiving flashes of insight about what needs to be reinvented in your life. It begins with your life philosophy— what beliefs and narratives no longer serve you? The Full Moon in Leo may bring some of your unhealed experiences to the surface, ones that have morphed into parts of your identity, demanding to be released. These wounds need to be exorcised and kissed with love in order to set you free. Don't worry, a reprieve is coming, but in the meantime, double down on your selfcare rituals. Treat yourself to something special, perhaps a decadent outing, just because you deserve it, and surround yourself with your people who remind you of who you are at your core.

The New Moon in Pisces is a love letter to your future self, inviting you to write a new script for your love life. To manifest the life and love you desire, you just have to believe in it fully and trust that it’s possible.

Libra

Venus in Aries starts off the month in your relationship zone, urging you to reflect on how your connections are aligned with your higher

purpose. Are the people around you helping you elevate, or are there superficial ties that have crept in from last year’s transitions? It’s time to balance the scales and clear out anything that doesn’t truly serve your growth. On the brighter side, new collaborations are on the horizon, but before diving in, take the time to warm up.

This could mean planning a thoughtful date or preparing for business meetings with your notes and key points to ensure a smooth, effective interaction. Remember, it’s not just about the outcome—it’s about the quality of the experience. Meanwhile, Mars retrograde in Cancer, having spent time spinning in your career zone, is now dusting itself off. With this shift, you can finally gain traction on the projects that have been brewing in your mind, giving you the momentum to move forward with renewed clarity and purpose.

Scorpio

The world is shifting beneath your feet, and now is the time to take what has lived inside of you as a dream and transform it into something real—something that breathes and evolves in the world. Your creativity is your fuel, your passion, your calling. You hold the power to build something lasting, to create with deep intention, and to finally break through the walls of doubt that have kept you from fully stepping into your potential. The Full Moon in Leo on the 13th is the spark you need to ignite action— don’t waste time worrying about your audience or external validation. Instead, focus solely on your inner creator, the voice that has been calling you forward all along. With the Sun in Pisces settling into your creative zone for the coming weeks and the New Moon in Pisces on the 27th, the universe is aligning to help you manifest your artistic desires. This is your moment to see quick, tangible results, so get clear, get bold, and watch as your dreams begin to take form.

Sagittarius

When did you last set out with the purpose of gathering inspiration from new places, new faces, and unfamiliar terrains—seeing how the landscapes, cultures, and energies could infuse your work, your art, your very being? The lioness energy of the Full Moon asks you to harness your primal energy, to live erotically, and to use the world as your mentor and guide for the purpose of self revelation. Just a week after, the Sun in Pisces nestles into your root of home and ancestry on the 18th, which may make you feel a little less social and more focused on curating your inner and outer sanctuary. Whether it’s through honouring your ancestral lineage, deepening your connection with your intuition, or simply finding peace in your personal surroundings, this transit asks you to embrace the art of sacred solitude. Looking for a new home? Add your dream home to your vision board during the New Moon in Pisces on the 28th.

Capricorn

You might have experienced a lot of recalibration in your relationships, especially with Mars retrograde in Cancer, which likely triggered moments of introspection and realignment. This transit may have sparked some tension, creating push-and-pull dynamics where power struggles emerged—questions about who holds responsibility, who takes the lead, and who has been avoiding accountability. But here’s the thing: now you have the clarity to see things for what they truly are. You've been given the space to reclaim your agency, and with Mars retrograde wrapping up on the 24th, the path forward feels much clearer. As the New Moon in Pisces on the 28th rolls in, it’s time to open your mind to new possibilities—ones that are closer than you think, especially with the North Node now in Pisces. The fantasy can absolutely be your reality, but only if you are fully committed to your desires. This is the moment to bridge the gap between your dreams and your actions, and make it all real.

TOWNSHIP OF McMURRICH/MONTEITH OUTDOOR SKATING RINK HOURS The Outdoor Rink is located at 31 William Street in Sprucedale – Adjacent to municipal Office building. EXTRA SKATES ARE AVAILABLE. Washroom facilities are located inside the Rink Change Building.

Please remember rink operations are WEATHER DEPENDANT! The Rink Attendant will be on site during the above times.

During these times the dressing room and washrooms will e open. Ther will be no sticks or pucks on the ice during Public Skating times. No food or drink on the Ice surface please.

PUBLIC SKATING: MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY 6PM-7PM, SATURDAY 1PM-3PM AND 6PM -7PM, SUNDAY 1PM-3PM AND 6PM-7PM JUNIOR HOCKEY (AGES 10 AND UNDER) MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY, 7PM-8PM SENIOR HOCKEY - MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY – 8PM-9:30PM FEBRUARY 15th, 2025 SPRUCEDALE WINTERFEST! - SPRUCEDALE LAWN MOWER RACES - WINTER 2025 have been CANCELLED, due to poor turn out for registration.

There are so many fun things going on this year including the regular fun favourites and so much more! Adding to the fun, the Sprucedale Seniors Friendship Club. DABBER BINGO 3:30pm to 5:30 pm. & PENNY SALE 9 am to 1 pm.

Many more exciting events to be announced.

Sprucedale Senior’s Friendship Club events Mondays at 1 pm Ladies Euchre, men welcome; 7pm Dabber Bingo doors open at 6 pm.

Mixed Euchre Thursday at 7:00 pm these events take place at the Community Centre, 31 William Street.

SPRUCEDALE DRAGONFLY CAFÉ IS OPEN! Thursday, Friday and Saturday, in January We are changing our hour slightly, at least until the snowmobile trails open.

Thursday and Friday we will be open 10 to 2, Saturday we will still be 9 am til 3 pm.

It was a little slow the few weeks before Christmas. If it picks up again we will extend our hours again. Hope to see you all 2415 Hwy 518. Downtown Sprucedale - Coffee & Baked Goods - Artisan Breads - "Nurturing community through coffee,

ALMAGUIN COMMUNITY SKI TRAILS – SUPPORT TOUQUES FOR TRAILS Kara Mitchell

Aquarius

Until the 18th, it’s still your birthday month, and with Pluto now in Aquarius, you're standing on the precipice of profound transformation. This energy is stirring up the most radical version of yourself, the one ready to break free from old patterns, limiting beliefs, and self-imposed

boundaries. The seeds you plant now have the potential to grow into something deeply rooted in your authentic power—and this is just the beginning. As we move toward the Full Moon in Leo on the 13th, it's all about balancing the 'I' versus the 'We.' The Full Moon calls you to reflect on how your personal desires and expressions align with the collective. How do you show up in your relationships, communities, and the world around you? This is your chance to examine how your individuality can coexist with the larger whole and how you can bring more of your true self into everything you create.

Pisces

This is a powerful month for examining the subconscious thoughts that still make you feel like the black sheep. Why do you see your uniqueness as a wound rather than a source of strength? What if this sense of being different isn’t something to heal or hide, but rather a medicine—a power waiting to be fully integrated? This is the time to question the narratives you've carried and reframe them into something wildly empowering. You get to channel all of these insights into the Full Moon in Leo, particularly in how it pertains to your work and how you're making your magic visible within it. It’s not just about doing the work, but about how you present it, how you let your essence be felt and seen in everything you create. As the New Moon in Pisces enters your sign, it brings a wave of cosmic support—a magical omen to lean into. This isn’t just a fresh start. It’s an invitation to explore the unseen, trust your instincts, and open yourself up to the limitless possibilities ahead. The universe is ready to meet you halfway, but you must take the first step with full faith and commitment to the journey.

Nintendo started in 1889 by making playing cards.

They also ran a TAXI, and a LOVE HOTEL, before making toys, and then video games in 1975.

Great North Arrow

Sprucedale

SOUTH RIVER: 'Toques for Trails' are available to order ! Warm your body with these cozy, lined caps and your soul knowing the

conversation and meaningful collaboration" FREE WIFI! Breakfast & Lunch items Artisan Breads, TO pre-order artisan bread products, email your order by Monday at noon for pick up on Thursday. EMAIL: cheers-dragonfly@gmail.com the Dragonfly Cafe IS HOSTING a marketplace for local artisans and collectors on Fridays and Saturdays, 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM. Interested vendors may rent tables for $20 per table per day ( if available, first come first serve) by emailing cheers.dragonfly@ gmail.com. Everyone is welcome to visit, enjoy food and beverages, and explore the art and treasures on display. Hope to see you there!!

— Sprucedale United Church on Sundays, 9:30 am Everyone Is Welcome Here!

We are working to create a community hub for everyone. If you have an idea on how to bring people together like a Book Club, Game Night, Music Class, Cooking Group, Local Artists, Musician and Farmers, just to name a few. Sprucedale United Church, 2415 ON-518, Service Sunday 9:30 am.

Thursday Dominoes at 1:30 pm Sprucedale Faith Chapel, 63 Henry Street, Sprucedale. - Sunday services at 10:30 am. Ladies Bible Study, Tuesday’s at 9:45 am to 12 pm. General Bible Study weekly on Thursday’s at 7:00 pm. First and last Friday of each month is game night 7- 9pm. Kids Club weekly from 1-5 pm Starting in November. Sprucedale Faith Chapel, 63 Henry Street, Sprucedale.

Sunday services at 10:30 am. Ladies Bible Study, every 2 nd Tuesday’s for Summer at 9:45 am to 12 pm. General Bible Study weekly on Thursday’s at 7:00 pm. For more information email Pastor Dallas; sprucedalefaithchapel@gmail.com WEDNESDAYS - Stay On Your Feet Class – FREE Every Wednesday at 1:30 pm. No need to register – just show up and have fun. At the Sprucedale Community Centre.

The Sprucedale Seniors are asking for Food Bank donations to help with families at Thanksgiving and the upcoming Christmas season. Donations are being asked from the people attending Ladies Euchre, Mixed Euchre and our Dabber Bingo they are also asking the community for help to keep our Food Bank supplied.

Items can be dropped off Monday’s 12-1 pm; 5-6pm; Thursday 6-7 pm. & “;It takes a Village” shared responsibility, together we can, unity is strength, community support.

purchase supports local #Almaguin trails for active use. Thanks to Silverscreenprinting for a great deal on embroidered logos for either Almaguin Community Ski Trails (Black caps) or the Forgotten Trails Association (Green caps). To order; -Choose between the 2 options & - sliding scale price of $22-$25 + - send order and payment by e-transferring forgottentrails@gmail.com and in the notes or a separate email let us know who you are and how to reach you to arrange pick-up - pick-up your toque at our Feb.16th event at Mikisew Provincial Park or at a partner retail location we are currently arranging (offers welcome!)

Thanks to the trend-setting, 'Trail Heroes' who made the 1st purchases this past weekend pictured here ! Both our groups are a part of charitable Discovery Routes Trails Organization.

FILL-IN PUZZLE #3 3 LETTER WORDS EEK EEL ERE EST GMO MAP MRS PST SET TBA UNO WAR 4 LETTER WORDS ATOM BELL BLAH DOOM DORM ELBA EMIT GAPE HERS ISN'T ITEM LATE LODE MEME ONES RATE RELY RUNE SNOW SONS SPOT STEW TEAM TO-DO UNDO

UPON URGE UTAH 5 LETTER WORDS BALSA BELLS BRATT CHASM DRIED EMEND ENTER HEADS HYENA ITEMS LOTUS MANSE MAUDE

NAOMI ONSET RAITA RHODA RIOTS RUPEE SOILS TERSE THESE

MANHOOD PERSONA RATCHET 8 LETTER WORDS DECOROUS EUROPEAN HORSEMAN SLIPSHOD

6 LETTER WORDS AUTUMN HERMIT OBLATE OBTUSE

10 LETTER WORDS ALPENSTOCK ARBITRATOR EMMA WATSON OUTRAGEOUS

7 LETTER WORDS HORMONE

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

B9 Free printable courtesy of PrintitFree.net

Sundridge YOUR SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL NEEDS VOLUNTEERS! We are looking for committee members!

We are also looking for students to join our committee. They will receive community hours.Join us at our next meeting Tuesday Febuary 25, 2025 - 6:00 pm at the Sundridge Municipal Office FEBRUARY 13TH- 5:15 PM - 6:30 PM – SIP AND PAINT AT SIPS SUNDRIDGE! Come join us for a fun and creative evening at Sips Sundridge! Get ready to unleash your inner artist while enjoying some delicious drinks. No painting experience? No problem! Our talented artist, Rosemary Gough, will guide you through creating your own masterpiece step by step.

Grab your friends and make it a night to remember. Whether you're looking for a new hobby or just want to unwind after a long week, Paint and Sip is the perfect way to relax and have a great time. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

The purchase of a ticket includes specialty coffee, cocktail, or beverage of your choice, as well as professional guidance to create your own masterpiece. Seats are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today. We can't wait to see you there!

Sips Sundridge , (249) 397-4500 sipssundridge@gmail.com FEBRUARY 14TH- Valentines Dance AT THE SUNDRIDGE LEGION! LIVE BAND WITH TOBIN SPRING. FEBRUARY 26TH- WEDNESDAY AT NOON. SENIORS LUNCH AT THE LEGION - RCL BRANCH #467 - $10 PER PERSON. CALL THE CSS OFFICE AT 705-724-6028 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT! FEBRUARY 28TH - YOUTH GYM NIGHT! Hey teens in Grades 8-12—this is for YOU! Stop by Sundridge Centennial Public School for an evening of fun, friends, and active games. Whether you’re a pro on the court or just looking to hang out, this night is for everyone! Mark your calendars: Jan 17 th , Feb 28th, Mar 28th, Apr 25th, May 9th, 6:30 PM 8:00 PM . FREE!!! Don’t forget: Bring a water bottle, Indoor shoes, Invite a friend! We’d love to know you’re coming! Click the link below to let us know you’ll be there. Pre-Register here: https:// tithely-60c8e5ec5e3f5-3920655.elvanto. eu/form/f78ebe61-8640-46cf-a8d58f409a81dd23 See you there! Help us get the word out!! Send us an email us at office@bethelsundridge.com or go to BethelSundridge. com for more info you everyone for continuing support for our trails and community :) APRIL 5TH- THE SUNDRIDGE LIONS PROUDLY PRESENT –‘ELIMINATION DANCE!’ YOU ARE INVITED TO THE BEST NIGHT OUT IN SUNDRIDGE! $150 FOR A TICKET THAT INCLUDES: 2 SEATS, 2 DINNERS, AND 1 DRAW ENTRY. Cocktails at 5:00PM, Buffet Dinner 6:30PM, Draw Starts at 7:30PM- EARLY BIRD DRAW $500 – FEBRUARY 14TH - -Dinner & Dancing SJ Arena Doors Open at 5PM Contact the Sundridge Lions for a Ticket Today!

Email sundridgelionsclub@gmail.com or find a member For group reservations call 78+84-2087 . ONLY 120 Tickets will be sold. Semi Formal Dress Attire - Over S5000 in prizes to be WON! Grand Prize of $2000

SUNDRIDGE FOOD BANK

(in this picture, Rosemary Gough and Amy Webb) Sundridge Food Bank would like to extend its gratitude to Sweat Studio for visiting the Food bank today with a very generous donation. Thank you to everyone who supports Sweat Studio  . Sundridge Food Bank Sweat Studio

Solution for Crossword #54 P A T E A L M S G R I T S O I L L E A S H O X E N E A G L E L I M E S T O N E W I N T E R G R E E N Y A P P E A S P L E N A R Y R A T B E S E T D C C V E N I A L S M A S H H I T I N U R E O N T O T I N A D E S T I N E D U N C L A D V I B E S U S E B E E M E N U P U B E R T Y W O O P A V I N G S T O N E H A N D S T A N D A G I N G E L S E U R G E S U E D E S E E R T E A L S E W S

Great North Arrow

Lottery License M812413 Sundridge Foodbank Wish list - PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING THESE ITEMS TO KEEP OUR SHELVES FULL Every can makes a difference . Our current wish list is individual lunch box fruits, puddings, canned vegetables, canned soup, juices, pancake syrup, of course we welcome all dry pantry goods! For your convenience, we have a Food Bank drop off box at Foodland & the public library. Or please feel free to drop by on Wednesdays from 11 AM/2 PM. Thank you, your community truly appreciates your kindness.

EARLY ON Child and Family Centre Sundridge -Satellite program at Bethel Pentecostal Church has returned! Fridays, 10:00 to 12:00. What to expect ? Playbased learning experiences that are fun and engaging presented by a Registered Early Childhood Educator.

Opportunities to meet and make connections with families with young children. parenting and Children's Resources.

Workshops, and connections to community programs and services. Questions? Please call 705 386 2552 ext. 5451 District of Pany Sound FROZEN MEAL DELIVERY! MEALS ARE $7.00 & CONSIST OF MAIN COURSE & DESSERT "DELIVERED EVERY TUESDAY - ELIGIBLE PERSONS INCLUDE: - SENIORS 65+ -THOSE WHO ARE TERMINALLY/CHRONICALLY ILL - THOSE WITH A DEVELOPMENT DISABILITY - THOSE RECENTLY DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL (I.E. POST SURGERY) EAST PARRY SOUND Support Services FOR MORE INFO & TO ORDER - CONTACT CSS @ 705-724-6028 Let’s Get Active! Free Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. This is drop in- no registration required. Bethel Pentecostal Church, Tuesdays at 11am.

We are in need of volunteers. If you know of any high school students that need their community service hours, they are welcome to come help us out with BINGO or dinners or many other things. We also would love anyone else to help out if they can. Please drop in during business hours and give us your name and number or call 705-386-2906 to leave them. Getting our community together one step at a time.

SUNDRIDGE LEGION BRANCH #467 FEBRUARY 26TH- WEDNESDAY AT NOON. SENIORS LUNCH AT THE LEGION RCL BRANCH #467 - MEATLOAF - $10 PER PERSON. CALL THE CSS OFFICE AT 705-7246028 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT! FEBRUARY 14TH- Valentines Dance AT THE SUNDRIDGE LEGION! LIVE BAND WITH TOBIN SPRING. Let’s Get Active! Free Classes! Join us for a one-hour class focusing on balance and strength. This is drop in- no registration required. Bethel Pentecostal Church, Tuesdays at 11am.

We are in need of volunteers. If you know of any high school students that need their community service hours, they are welcome to come help us out with BINGO or dinners or many other things. We also would love anyone else to help out if they can. Please drop in during business hours and give us your name and number or call 705-386-2906 to leave them. Getting our community together one step at a time.

TRUE HOCKEY FANS

(PHOTO CREDIT: KATHY KUJALA) SUNDRIDGE: Great gramps Peter Kujala at the Sundridge arena cheering on The Muskoka Otters and keeping company with Wellsy.

SUNDRIDGE LIONS ROAR EVEN LOUDER IN THE COLD!

SUNDRIDGE: Winter weather doesn’t stop the Sundridge Lions crew! Just a reminder that all the funds from bottles collected go right back to the community through the work of the Sundridge Lions. It’s soo easy to do a good deed, just drop them off at the Flower Shop or the forest lake road dump site. Thank you

Whitestone

ARDBEG LOGGERS STATION Is OPEN!, AND WE LOVE SNOWMOBILERS! please continue to call in fish orders on Friday to reserve your HALIBUT, 705 389 1966 DUNCHURCH NEW HORIZONS FOR SENIORS PROGRAM The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 394, is pleased to announce that we have received funding under the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program for our project to upgrade the windows in the Branch.

This federal grants and contributions program supports projects that are led or inspired by seniors who are making a difference in the lives of others in their communities.

The funds were used to remove the old leaking windows and install a complete new set of modern ones. This will help with the heating and cooling of the building.

This, in turn, will make the building more accommodating to our members, guests and other organizations that use it.

Thank you to the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program for the funding support provided to The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 394. It will make a significant difference in the lives of seniors in our community.

For more information, visit New Horizons for Seniors Program — Community-based projects. Canada. Funded by the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program REGULAR SKATING SCHEDULE AT THE DUNDOME - DUNCHURCH Monday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Public / Family Skating 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Junior Hockey 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Adult Hockey Tuesday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Public / Family Skating 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Junior Hockey 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Adult Hockey Wednesday 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Public / Family Skating 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Adult Hockey Thursday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Public / Family Skating 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Junior Hockey 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Adult Hockey Friday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Public / Family Skating 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Junior Hockey 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Adult Hockey Saturday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Public / Family Skating 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Adult Hockey 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM Public / Family Skating Sunday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Public / Family Skating 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Junior Hockey 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Public / Family Skating 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM Junior Hockey 6:00 PM –11:00 PM Adult Hockey NOTES: Junior Hockey is ages 10 and under There will be no sticks or pucks on the ice during Public Skating times To book special events, contact the Municipal Office at 705-389-2466 during regular business hours.

Loggers Station in Ardbeg – It’s SLED SEASON 2025! - it's time to pivot again!, Due to staffing shortage which causes extra pressure on the kitchen during snowmobile season, Loggers Station House Ardbeg will be temporarily closing the restaurant, we will be shifting our focus to providing a grab and go menu through a take-out window in the store, soup, chilli and premade sandwiches will be available ,the gas pump will also be available, we are currently working on providing a warming area (fire-pit) to warm the hands and toes, it is our priority to pivot back to re-open the restaurant, hrs of operation will be --Thursday to Sunday, 11:30am -5pm,,PLAY HARD AND SAFE SLEDING The Rock n Duck Resto is getting great reviews and we are happy to have them back! Take out and dining room table service. Hours will be the limited to start until it get busier. They have a Facebook page with hours and menu.

WHITESTONE: As a Fire Department, we are always looking for volunteers to join the ranks. To learn more and apply, contact Fire Chief Whitman at fire.department@ whitestone.ca.

Winter Landfill Hours - Landfills have moved to winter hours. Please note that the landfills are closed all statutory holidays in the winter.

York Street - Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Auld’s Road Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: - 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Walk Fit with Rebecca - Monday & Friday 10:00am to 11:00am - Information call or text Rebecca at 705-773-2091.

Dunchurch Community Centre. Join us for a gentle exercise class! Try Walk Fit with West Parry Sound Community Support Services at the Dunchurch Community Centre.

For more information: Rebecca Green: 705773-2091 Linda Taylor: 705-746-5602 LANDFILL SITE HOURS, CLOSED for all statutory holidays in the Winter. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – 9.am – 5pm.

SUNDAY AND HOLIDAY MONDAY’S – 12pm.

– 5pm. BOTH SITES ARE CLOSED STATUTARY HOLIDAYS DURING WINTER HOURS. Fire Permit Registration- Planning to have a bonfire? Don't forget to register for your fire permit online. Be sure to check the fire rating before lighting a fire or launching fireworks.

SENIOR CONNECT - Help is available to seniors 65+ in the West Parry Sound District. West Parry Sound District - Community Support Services Do you have anything preventing you from feeling safe in your home? Is your refrigerator empty?

Have you had something traumatic happen to you? Are you feeling well enough to cook a healthy meal? Do you have suitable transportation to and from social, shopping and medical appointments?

Would it be wise to have someone call to check on your well-being? Would you like someone to talk with? - Connect with us by calling 705-746-5602 FREE SERVICES INCLUDE: One-on-one service navigation and connection - A Senior Connect Van can transport you - Our volunteer will ensure that you can get into your home safely Home Help for fall prevention and accessibility - Nutritious meals can be delivered - We can arrange for a friendly visitor/ peer support person to check on you - Our volunteers will monitor your safety Some restrictions may apply PLEASE CALL: 705746-5602 Sports & Recreation Walk Fit: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays - Location: Dunchurch Community Centre - Contact: Rebecca Green, 705-773-2091; - Linda Taylor at 705-746-5602 Pickleball: *Most Tuesdays and Thursdays - Location: Dunchurch Community Centre - Contact: Contact: Terry Finch 519362-6169 or municipal office 705-389-2466 INFORMATION FROM THE MUNICIPALITY OF WHITESTONE - North East Virtual Care Clinic. The North East Virtual Care Clinic is a Nurse Practitioner virtual care clinic that works with local health care providers to ensure patients can access more timely care. It serves patients within the Ontario Health North East region, which region includes Whitestone and area.

The Clinic accepts patients whether or not they have a family doctor. The Clinic was established to serve patients who are experiencing an urgent medical condition, which includes imminent concerns that are not life or limb threatening. If you require emergency care, they will work with the local hospital to refer you to an ER. To register for a virtual appointment with a nurse practitioner: Visit the website anytime: www.nevirtualcare.ca/ Call 1-888-684-1999 between 1 pm and 9 pm 7 days a week DUNCHURCH MAGNETAWAN LEGION BRANCH #394 With Comrade Kelvin Hill As always – Please Promote – Please attend. Come out and support your Branch……Take part in ceremonies…..

Volunteer to help out with functions…..

Offer suggestions For information contact: Branch 389-3130 Karen 389-3839 Jan 389-1091 Joan 3873393 FEBRUARY 15th- RCL BRANCH 394 LEGION LADIES AUXILIARY - VALENTINE’S ROAST BEEF DINNER - Prepared by Comrade Dan Kivell- 2 SEATINGS, 5PM AND 6:30PM - $30 Tickets available at the Legion Bar/call 705389-3130 (corner 124/Balsam Rd) For info, contact Jan Hill - 705-389-1091 Our hours & events: Tuesday 7:00 - 11 PM euchre; Friday 1 PM cribbage & 7 - 11 PM darts; Saturday 1 - 6 PM euchre. cost of cards and darts is $5.00 & $2 for a 50/50 draw Weekly Events Open To The Public - Monday & Wednesday, Thursday: CLOSED - Tuesday: 7:00 pm - 10:30 pm ~ Euchre 7:30 pm Friday: 1:00 pm -10:30 pm .

Cribbage 1:00pm and Darts 7:30pm Other Activities Dart Boards & Shuffleboard available year round Other Special Events announced on a regular basis Open To The Public ~ Everyone Welcome!

Come out and join in the fun and comradeship Air-conditioned Hall Having a Party, Wedding, Anniversary, or Birthday? We can provide a Bar Licensed under LCBO - Call for details.

Meetings: Executive Meeting on first Wednesday at 7:00 pm - All meetings held at the Branch Hall WHITESTONE LIBRARY Did you know that we loan out snowshoes and provincial park passes? Snowshoes are available in a variety of sizes and can be borrowed for one week at time. We also loan out ice fishing kits, courtesy of our friends at the Whitestone Rod and Gun Club!

FEBRUARY 1ST - 12NOON- 2PM- Wonder Workshop- Spark curiosity and foster creativity in kids and teens every Saturday at the library! This drop-in program features different activities each Saturday, ranging from group Nintendo Switch tournaments, STEM challenges, Lego building contests, and more.

Whitestone Continued on Pg B12

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

B10

People Getting “FED Up

The Angry Beaver Politically Incorrect

Canadians under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, we have the right of thought, belief, opinion, and expression. This means that we have the right to agree or disagree, praise or criticize others opinions, ideas, thoughts, and ideology and religion. No level of government has the right to tell us how to think, what words to use, and/or what beliefs to have.

The government is elected to serve the people, not the people serve them.

HOURS: Monday-Friday: 8:30 am-6 pm Saturday: 8:30am-5pm Sunday- Closed

Great North Arrow

LANE FAMILY PHARMACY 4 Pine Drive Parry Sound ON P2A 3B8 Phone: (705) 746-2187

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

B11

. The plastic or metalic coating at the end Of your shoe laces is called an aglet.

COACH’S CORNER

Whitestone Continued on Pg B12

With Debbie Ireland

Our January 21st Almaguin Special Olympic bowling day was a frigid one! Due to the extremely cold temperature, we only had a small group brave the cold to bowl.

It was a fun day, everyone was in a happy mood with a bit of dancing and singing along with bowling. The theme for the day was "This is how we do it", which athlete John Tomkins sang every chance he could!

In these pictures: Patrick Prentice beyond happy with his 4 strikes in a row!!

Patrick Prentice decided this was going to be an extra special day for him. He ended his second game with 4 strikes in a row!

That not only gave him a turkey, he ended up with a fantastic score of 198!! Congratu-

lations Patrick, well done!!

Sending out huge Get Well wishes to athlete Stefanie Carleton, AKA "RED". Red badly hurt her ankle and is in a cast for 6 weeks. She will be very much missed by her bowling and curling friends during her recuperation. Take it easy Red, we look forward to your return!

Please don't forget to buy your Special Olympic Donut from Tim Horton's, from January 31st to February 2nd. 100% of the proceeds from sales of the donut will go directly to Special Olympics programs, supporting thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities across Canada.

Sending out February Happy Birthday wishes to athletes John Hunt and Lesli Sollman. We hope you enjoy your extra special day!

Almaguin Special Olympic bowlers and coaches, would like to give a special thank you to the Tuesday afternoon Riverbowl bowling league. Every week they take a collection and generously donate it to the Almaguin Special Olympic Bowling. It touches all of us deeply, that they care so much about Special Olympics. Total kindness...thank you once again.

Monday February 17, 2025 is Random Acts Of Kindness Day. A day to celebrate and encourage kindness. Maybe call a friend you haven't spoken to in awhile, or pick up groceries for an elderly friend, or walk a friend's dog. There's so many little things we can do to show kindness...

Here are the personal best scores for January 21st: 1 Gamers: Larry Hollingshead 79.

2 Gamers: Keith Piegan 110.

3 Gamers: Patrick Prentice 198, Hudson Booth 196, Fred Campbell 187, Christina Campbell 162, Darwyn Follick 138, Lois Aho 120, Kirsten Swanston 113, John Tomkins 112, Ethen Corrigan 92.

Remember, when you can't be anything else, please be kind...

FEBRUARY 1ST - 2PM-4PM- Dungeons and Dragons- No experience necessary, preregistration required. Offered by the Whitestone Recreation Committee. Offered in partnership and with the support of the Whitestone Recreation Committee.

FEBRUARY 6TH- 10AM-12PM- Playgroup and Storytime- This is a drop-in program, no registration required. Every Thursday from 10 AM to noon at the Whitestone Public Library. It’s the perfect place for parents and caregivers to relax with a cup of coffee, chat, and watch as your little ones explore, play, and listen to engaging stories. Snacks and toys provided by the Whitestone Rec Committee. All families welcome!

FEBRUARY 6TH - 1PM-3PM- Knitting Circle is a drop-in social program. No actual experience knitting or crocheting required.

Everyone welcome!

FEBRUARY 8TH - 12NOON- 2PM- Wonder Workshop- Spark curiosity and foster creativity in kids and teens every Saturday at the library! This drop-in program features different activities each Saturday, ranging from group Nintendo Switch tournaments, STEM challenges, Lego building contests, and more.

FEBRUARY 8TH - 2PM-4PM- Dungeons and Dragons- No experience necessary, preregistration required. Offered by the Whitestone Recreation Committee. Offered in partnership and with the support of the Whitestone Recreation Committee.

THE GREAT SNOW DAY CONSPIRACY (in this picture: 1974 Snow Coach by Bombardier that I found in Callander Ontario, only asking $32,000) ALMAGUIN:-Cyndi Culbert- Recently, we have had an onslaught of snow days— wind, freezing rain, snow squalls, you name it, we’ve been experiencing it. Schools have closed, buses have been canceled, and parents everywhere have started questioning their life choices as they attempt to work from home while their children launch fullscale living room invasions.

Given the back roads that many of our students travel, it’s no surprise that buses are often canceled. I think, as I write this, we’ve had about 18 bus cancellations in our area, and we still have a couple of months to go. At this rate, students might

in the back of station wagons with no seatbelts and drank water straight from the garden hose. Times have changed.

Honestly, if I had school-aged children who traveled by bus, I wouldn’t want them riding in this weather either. I’d rather keep them home, safe, warm, and engaged in the fine educational pursuit of binge-watching cartoons while eating snacks straight from the box.

But amidst all of this winter chaos, there is one bright spot that brings a smile to my face: Barry Bell of Bell Transportation.

Barry doesn’t just announce bus cancellations—he turns them into a daily dose of entertainment. His updates come with hilarious, imaginative stories that somehow make even the worst weather days a little brighter.

What do you think Barry? Would one of these 1974 Bombardier work? I found one for you and its only $32,000! It might

There are two credit cards for every person in the United States.

LIVING ON LAKE TIME

SOLAR POWERED COFFEE

BERNIE GIESLER Made my first cup of coffee at the cottage using solar power this morning, so pleased so far with this minimal system. It hasn’t cost too much so far, a couple 100 watt panels with a charger was on sale, some used

deep cycle batteries and a voltage inverter.

This will operate most everything except the water heater and the stove but only a select few at a time. It does run the furnace and the refrigerator at the same time so it does have some decent capacity, I haven’t pushed it beyond that yet. This is only a step towards a possible future independence from the need of a hydro

hookup. Several more panels, a propane water heater and stove and perhaps a larger and better quality inverter. The water pump could be replaced with a 12 volt Recreational Vehicle pump which work surprisingly well. The stove I could actually do without as it really doesn’t get used a lot anymore, air fryer, toaster oven and microwave does the bulk of the cooking now.

I have also been thinking of building my own wind power generator, it seems there is always a wind coming from somewhere on the island. I have read and heard that wind generators can be a pain to keep maintained but it would be fun to build anyway.

My system is so far just put together to see how well it works, next is to place the panels in a permanent position and clean up the wiring. If the hydro goes out at least this would keep me going for a day or two (maybe longer if lots of sun) without the use of a generator, it will be interesting to find out.

A recent article in the Great North Arrow reported that a woman, Anna Robertson -Janiska , has sued a local Hospital, saying that after her husband had surgery there, he lost all interest in sex. A hospital spokesman replied: "Mr. Janiska was admitted for cataract surgery. All we did was correct his eyesight."

Great North Arrow

as well trade in their backpacks for sleds and start referring to Netflix as their new teacher.

So many times, I hear people chiming in, saying that back in their day, "We didn’t have snow days! We went to school no matter what!" Sure, we did. We also rode

help you get through the ‘rough patches!’

If you need a laugh while trying to survive this endless winter, follow Bell Transportation on Facebook for your local Dunchurch and area updates. Thank you, Barry—you are the highlight of a nasty day!

The city of Venice stands on about 120 small islands.

Tales for Predicting Gender: ‘So, are you having a boy or a girl?” Sweet versus salty cravings - If you find yourself craving all things sweet, that's a sign you're having a girl. Cravings for salty or even protein-rich foods mean it might be a boy. (And if you're craving everything? Well, that just means you're pregnant.)

Wet hair and colds: Going outside with wet hair doesn't cause colds. Colds are caused by viruses, which are spread more easily indoors.

Small towns & proud ... connecting communities

If You Shave Your Hair, It Will Grow Back Faster, Darker, and/or Coarser- Despite holding the evidence of this myth’s mythical nature on our literal faces, heads, legs, and underarms, the idea that shaved hair will grow back darker, coarser, faster, or just generally “more” is pervasive.

Think about it. If our hair grew back longer, darker, or coarser, surely we’d have noticed a general change in its appearance after a lifetime of shaving. ~If an apple bursts in the oven while baking, good news is on the way for the cook. ~Forgetting to add spice to a recipe while cooking signifies trouble ahead, and you must remedy this by ~Cracks in the ceiling indicate bad weather is on the way.

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