JAN 15TH -2025

Our Little boy is growing up. It’s scary how time flies.

Jim Shedden-Staff

Ben Brumpton of Whitestone shows off a couple of monster walleyes caught in the Almaguin Region. Ben is no stranger when it comes to catching big walleyes. Way back in the February 2011 issue of the Great North Arrow we have a picture of Ben holding another monster. I bet he still has those pj’s. Ben joked with Cyndi that he wanted to be on the front cover of the Great North Arrow. Careful what you wish for Ben.

The Almaguin Dog Sled Races: A Weekend of Excitement and Community Fun January 18th and 19th

SOUTH RIVER: GNA STAFF-Cyndi Culbert- The Almaguin Highlands are gearing up for an unforgettable weekend as the annual Almaguin Dog Sled Races return! Taking place on Saturday, January 18th, and Sunday, January 19th, this grand family-friendly event promises to deliver excitement, community spirit, and a unique showcase of skill and athleticism. Hosted at the Almaguin Highlands Secondary School and the Almaguin Community Ski Trails,

the event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on both days. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it accessible to spectators of all ages.

The South River World Cup Qualifying Dog Sled Races are the highlight of the weekend. Mushers and their incredible canine teams from across the region will compete against the clock and each other, demonstrating their impressive skills in this thrilling and timeless sport. Watching these hardworking dogs in action, running as a team in perfect harmony, is an experience like no other.

In addition to the races, the event offers a range of exciting activities and features.

Forgotten Trails will host a silent auction and equipment exchange, providing a great opportunity to discover outdoor gear and

support a good cause. Food vendors will also be on-site, offering delicious treats and food to keep visitors warm and satisfied throughout the day.

For photography enthusiasts, the Almaguin Dog Sled Races offer an ideal setting to practice high-speed photography. The energy of the dogs, the snowy trails, and the vibrant atmosphere provide endless inspiration for photographers of all levels. To ensure safety and respect for the event, photographers are encouraged to follow track guidelines: stay off the track, avoid moving locations until all racers in a heat have finished, keep to the side when taking photos, and avoid distracting the dogs as they pass by.

Spectators are also reminded to follow important guidelines to ensure a safe and

enjoyable experience for everyone. It is essential to stay off the track and avoid walking down the middle, remain in one location until all racers in a heat are done, and keep pets at home, as they are not allowed at the event for the safety of the racing teams.

(Photo Credit: Megan Rae-Back Country Media)

Almaguin Dog Sled Race Cont. on Pg A4

Roofing • Junk • Reno • Construction

Pubic Notice

The Armour, Ryerson, Burks Falls Agricultural Society announces that the Annual General Meeting will be held Jan 16th at 7:00 pm at the Armour Township Office 56 Ontario Street Burks Falls. The Agenda includes the 2024 Board of Directors and Executive Election for: President

Vice President 1st

Vice President 2nd Directors (Multiple)

Associate Directors ( Multiple) Junior Directors (Multiple)

A Look At Essential Services

Deborah Bussey

There have been a few instances over the past year that have caused me to take pause and reflect. Truth be told, it is usually when you have to face something, actually live through a challenge that your eyes are opened to the positives and negatives you are faced with. There are times when I am outraged with our politicians as they seem so out of touch with reality it’s gut wrenching. Most, not all, but most have absolutely no clue what it is like to deal with issues the average Canadian deals with. I’m being serious here. They have a job that guarantees them a FULL pension after 6 years of service!!!!! SIX YEARS PEOPLE!!! Wow! And they don’t even have to be good at their job! WTH?

and I have been friends for over 50 cough cough years! It all started when our family moved into her grandmother’s rental home on Ottawa Street in South River in the early 70’s. It didn’t take long for us to become fast friends and get into a wee bit of mischief (the good kind lol). We went to school together, partook in more than a few shenanigans, moved on, got married, had children, careers etc. Although our lives drifted apart, when we reconnected, it was like no time had passed. We quickly took up where we left off. We missed out on some milestone years and journeys our life paths took but the beauty is that once you reconnect you start to put the pieces of life’s puzzle together and discover they are as genuine as you remembered. You come to appreciate the path your lives have taken you down. It’s an opportunity to learn and reestablish a bond.

Canada Post's 2025 Rate Hike: What It Means for You as a Consumer and Your Business

ALMAGUIN: Cyndi Culbert - As announced in September, Canada Post will increase postage rates starting January 2025. The price of stamps purchased in booklets, coils, or panes, which represent the majority of stamp sales, will rise by 25 cents to $1.24 per stamp. Additionally, the cost of a single domestic stamp will increase to $1.44, up from $1.15.

This rate adjustment represents a onetime increase of approximately 25%, aimed at better aligning stamp prices with the rising costs of providing letter mail services across Canada. Canada Post acknowledges that these increases will result in additional expenses for customers but emphasizes that they are necessary to address financial challenges.

The Corporation estimates that the annual impact of the rate increase will be minimal: $2.26 for the average Canadian household and $42.17 for the average small business. However, some small business owners, such as GNA, question the accuracy of these figures, especially as mailing a single copy of a bi-monthly newspaper now costs over $4—making subscriptions less feasible. And lets not forget, everything is

subject to an additional 13% HST on top! One single stamp is $1.66!!!

Canada Post faces significant cost pressures due to declining letter volumes and an increasing number of delivery addresses, compounded by ongoing inflationary challenges.

Adding to the frustration of small businesses is the aftermath of the strike that began on November 15, 2024, and lasted until December 17, 2024. For many businesses, this strike was catastrophic. Revenues all but disappeared during this period, leaving losses that could not be recouped. Items mailed before the strike were lost and have yet to be delivered, while delayed payments for products created cash flow nightmares. For small businesses like GNA, this period marked a devastating blow from which recovery seems impossible. Now, with increased mailing costs and what many describe as apathetic service, businesses are left questioning the value they receive from Canada Post. While customers can continue using their Permanent™ stamps at the current domestic rate, the overall service experience leaves a bitter taste for many business owners.

Canada Post assures customers it is working to minimize the impact of these changes, but the question remains: how will businesses and households adapt to these rising costs and ongoing service challenges? Will they be like us and be looking for alternative solutions? We would love to hear your thoughts and feedback! greatnortharrow@gmail.com

The reason a lot of our services fail the grade are due in part to the politicians being out of sync with the rest of Canadians. Their position affords them certain luxuries that the rest of us do not have. Most concentrate on the larger metropolises (where most of the money is) which means our rural communities suffer greatly. Do we have services....yes. Are there enough doctors and healthcare professionals for our area.....no. There needs to be an incentive program in place to entice doctors and nurses to come to our rural areas to help very deserving communities before the crisis becomes monumental. Sadly, for anything serious we must travel great distances to get treatment. So do we have services, yes....just not enough which creates all kinds of series problems. If we look at how many essential services have been removed from our communities, relocated or worst-case scenario not replaced/rebuilt at all, that creates almost a sense of panic for many in our area. We have witnessed numerous jobs and residents affected by this shuffle and it’s devastating our communities. For example; Lady Isabelle Nursing Home in Trout Creek, Ontario was shut down in 2017 relocating 49 residents and 70 people lost their jobs. There was a promise to rebuild a brandnew state of the art 96 bed nursing home within 2 years (by 2019) and 6 years later we are still waiting. No shovel has turned any earth to date! 37 men with mental health issues were relocated to a motel in North Bay after the Ministry of Health shut down Dosanjh Care Residence in Powassan for much needed upgrades. Shortly after MPP Vic Fedeli announced he had secured $800,000 to retrofit the Motel in North Bay for the 37 men. Hmmmm The Dosanjh Care Residence received a green light from the Ministry of Health within 30 days after being flagged and is now on the market for sale. Hmmmmm This is why so many have lost faith in our politicians. Slowly they are choking out the small communities and eliminating essential services that were once there. I just don’t understand why he (Vic Fedeli) could not have put that $800,000 into Powassan? I also don’t understand how they could devastate so many families affected by the closure of an essential service, a nursing home, in Trout Creek.? You can bet your bottom dollar that if any of their family members were in either facility this would not have happened!!! Just saying! This is not an article about the blow hards no....this is an article about the true backbone of our communities....the essential service workers. They are the true heroes.

There have been many examples of heroism this past year yet sometimes it’s the little things that catch us off guard. As I have said before, we often do not fully understand something unless we live it ourselves, see it with our own eyes and then the lightbulb goes on and we are forever changed.

This past Sunday I was texting with my good friend Connie Dodd (Gutjahr). Connie

On this particular Sunday she mentioned that she had just dropped off her husband for work. Wow.....working on a Sunday.... Paul must be one dedicated employee! She then went on to explain there was a blizzard happening in Barrie and Paul was a driver for Red Cross taking patients for kidney dialysis in a Wheel Trans van. She said that dialysis clinics were open on special days for the holidays to accommodate those in need. Now this is truly amazing. To be honest many of us wouldn't have thought of that unless we were in need of that service.

I was intrigued that Paul had taken up this kind of work so we talked a bit more about his experience in this field. She told me that Paul came home shaken after delivering groceries to disadvantaged people as part of an organization called The Sharing Place, they work in cooperation with Red Cross. He claimed he would never complain again. It is from these jobs that Paul shared with Connie what an eye-opening experience it was for him. How it humbles you and makes you grateful for your own blessings in life. How true. When we see up front how grateful others are for things we might take for granted it is truly a humbling experience. Our conversation made me reflect back to my days as a PSW working for Canadian Paraplegic Association of Ontario and Red Cross. We discussed how maybe teens could volunteer for community service hours doing support work like this in order to open their minds and hearts as well as helping others less fortunate than themselves. When they witness the struggles others have to maintain their independence or have some form of dignity and quality of life it just may open eyes to a life of service and create a level of empathy and compassion in those workers/volunteers in the field. We can nurture better human beings when they are exposed to scenarios that require them to give of themselves to help another.

We sometimes forget that there was a family out in a blizzard, Connie driving Paul into work, Paul then heading out to pick up people who were in desperate need of dialysis and then return them home before his wife came to pick him up. The ripple effect is that Paul and Connie have family/ friends who worry about them, all the dialysis patients have family/friends who worry about them, all the staff that travel into the clinics to provide the dialysis have family/ friends who worry about them and on it goes. This sometimes gets lost on people because most are only thinking about their personal situation. Maybe if more people would reflect on the bigger picture it might make a difference....I said might.

If we look beyond this initial story we will see how easily we could take our first responders for granted. It’s not intentional I don’t believe. Maybe we forget in the heat of the moment that they have to go out in all types of weather, sometimes in very dangerous situations to help someone in need. They can’t just say, nope not doing it. They have to muster up their courage to face the unknown in order to come to the aide of another. We on the other hand can take the day off....call in sick, take a mental health day, do whatever you need to do to stay off the roads, home and safe. Perhaps we should remember this when we see their flashing lights and pull over to let them get through. It’s actually what we should be doing but not everybody does it. Essential Services Continued on Page A9

The average person’s left hand does 56% of the typing.

In 1859, 24 rabbits were released in Austrailia. Within six years the population grew to 2 million.

STEPHEN LEHMAN

MEGAN RAE

DARLEN ROSS

JAMES SHEDDEN

WALLY SMITH

STEPHEN TOD

ROD URQUHART

LINDA WEST

JIM YOUNG

ALMAGUIN SNOWMOBILE CLUB

KEARNEY RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

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.

“January is a two-faced month, jangling like jester’s bells, crackling like snow crust, pure as any beginning, grim as an old man, mysteriously familiar yet unknown, like a word one can almost but not quite define.” ―Patricia Highsmith

And here it is, more than a middle through the month. Do you agree that January is the longest dragging month of the year? It’s been one of those and I feel bad for the snowmobilers and events that rely on a good snow base, its been challenging to say the least. I looked at the Farmers Almanac, (of which I was really disappointed in) but that’s another story and to me it sounds a lot like it was last year. Up and down temperatures, not enough for a good snow base and infrequent snow storms. Sorry snow fans.

I would like to welcome a couple of new writers to our family, Michelle Budiwski from Manitoba and Richard Dowson from Saskatchewan. Both bring something new to the GNA that I am sure you will find interesting, they share their thoughts and perspectives from across this vast country of ours. Canada PROUD! RIGHT?

I was quite surprised and thrilled when I was working on the community news and events listings for this edition, WOW! I can always tell by my word counts how many events are happening in our communities and this month was full! This section is a lot of work, it takes me days to pull it together and it’s so rewarding when people tell us that they read every village and town to see what is going on and they are attending events too! Please, if you have an event or anything exciting to share, please send it to me. If we don’t know its happening, we can’ print it!

Our writer jim young, ‘Dog On A Root’ just sent me an idea, when he writes his monthly recipes that he shares with us, most often it brings back a fond memory for me. He asked, ‘why don’t you add your memories to the recipes?’ That tweaked a thought! I will, and I invite you, to send in your recipes with memories and see if we can’t stir up some wonderful memories of days gone by for our readers! Thanks, jim!

Great things are happening with the GNA as we continue to grow! We are still working on finding a way to mail out subscriptions, but numerous chats with Canada Post have been totally unproductive and that appears to be an impossibility. The latest quote was over $5 plus tax per newspaper and that just isn’t doable. The great news is that we are working with a new company that specializes in Newspapers, and they are creating an amazing online entity for us. The one we use now is not user friendly and I am not a fan and refuse to read it there. The new online version is quite amazing and for those who can’t get the paper copy (which as far as I am concerned is the only way to read a paper) will work! Never fear, the GNA will ALWAYS be available in print as long as we own a Newspaper! We have come along way, I guess I would say that while still maintaining a high volume of good news and happy stories, we are ‘newsy’ More so, the kinds of news you won’t find from all over the internet and we try to only do News stories with a happy ending. You can find bad and ugly news anywhere! GNA is a newspaper plus! In fact, just compare us to other publications in size! Its late in the day, time to head off to press and put this paper to bed shortly. I would like to take a line or two to wish our newest Centenarian a very Happy Hundredth Birthday. Happy Birthday wishes go out to Ross Metcalf of Burk’s Falls from everyone here at the GNA. Enoy your January days, they are getting longer! ‘see you around the towns, Cyndi’

FIRST QUARTER NEWSPAPER DATES AND INTO APRIL

JANUARY 2025

JANUARY 17TH - 2ND EDITION JANUARY 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

lunch and drove home. I can claim my expenses back on my taxes. It was a long day, super cold and I'm exhausted but my oncology team will have the detailed report next week and be able to make an informed decision on my next course of treatment As

So with the American presidential inauguration just days away now, I guess those skeptics who dismissed inferences by some Trumpites over the last few years of Donald Trump being the Second Coming will soon have to 'eat crow'. Although the polarization of opinions over whether he truly is the Second Coming may never be settled, on January 20 his second coming to the highest office in the White House will be indisputable.

Of course, I am only assuming that hard core Trumpites actually believe Trump is the Second Coming of Christ. I may have totally misinterpreted placards I believe I saw being waved at campaign stops suggesting such. If, however, some of them did hope to apply a sort of spiritual pastiche to him and his promises, it occurred to me recently that if that is indeed their intent then they might want to perhaps reassess it. Why, you ask? Well, though I may only possess a Sunday school understanding of The Bible, what I do recall interpreting from those teachings is that Rome, possibly the premier global empire of Jesus' time, was afraid of the insurrection against their unchallenged hegemony in the region that they believed he was going to instigate. So if many Republican voters honestly believe that empowering Trump has the potential to make America great again, confirm it as the premier global superpower, then they might want to reconsider how to reconcile that belief with the historical contradiction presented when comparing him to someone who is credited with ideas that eventually led to the demise of a former military and economic superpower.

On the other hand, maybe their understanding of again making America great was indeed in the biblical sense and they saw Donald Trump, not as a man who would make it great in the generally accepted benchmarks of a consumer based society but instead as an entity who would make it great by resurrecting Jesus' mission to be 'thy brothers keeper' and bring 'peace

annoying and inconvenient as that sounds, if I was in the US without proper insurance, this single test today could have cost me up to $7000 USD - out of pocket. Proper insurance can cost American families thousands a month. During my cancer journey since August I've had 2 MRIs, 3 CT scans, a dozen blood tests, 25 days of both chemo and radiation and at least 12 meetings with different doctors, oncology specialists and met with oncology dieticians and mental health supports. We estimate that if we were under or uninsured in the US we would have spent close to $100,000 to date and I haven't had surgery yet. Neither my insurance company nor I have paid a single penny out of pocket thanks to our federal and provincial health care programs. Anyone who thinks we need to privatize health care or create a two tiered system based on income should give their heads a shake and check their privelege. No one should have to debate whether to feed their children or treat their disease. No one I'm so absolutely filled out with gratitude to be Canadian today. #healthcare #peopleoverprofits #proudCanadian

on Earth'. After all, during his campaign he

promised many times that one of his first orders of business would be to bring peace to Ukraine. His campaign rhetoric about how he was going to solve the 'problem' of illegal immigrants from the south, however, may have ran contradictory to the generally accepted Christian principle of being a 'brothers keeper' but maybe he had a more conciliatory plan once elected. (You have to appreciate the cosmic humour that a country that once turned a blind eye to the kidnapping and transportation of another continent's populace to its own shores for the purpose of owning cheap labour is now doing absolutely everything it can think of to keep out citizens of other countries who want to come to America, willingly, as cheap labour.)

Whether one's beliefs are secular or spiritual though, one thing almost all global citizens will probably agree on is that GREAT change is about to descend upon all of us. Of course, being great isn't necessarily synonymous with being good. In fact, if memory serves me, World War I was sometimes referred to as The Great War. Again, another reference to great implying destruction of the societal world order.

Hmmm. I'm starting to see a pattern here. Putting aside all that speculation about double entendres however, the one overriding question that most democratically elected leaders worldwide seem to be in lockstep about is how to help their respective countries survive economically for the next four years with the incoming President. Mr. Trudeau, of course, was pilloried in the media because he came across as being indifferent to all the economic threats being hurled at Canada by Mr. Trump. Premier Ford, by contrast, perhaps as a sop to his base and possible future voters, seems intent on trying to do an end run around Trump by meeting directly with the governors of many northern States, pointing out to them the detrimental effects that both countries will suffer in the event of a trade war. Personally, I find this approach counter-productive because by doing so, some governors may misinterpret his overtures as an insinuation that they are too dumb to realize this all on their own but he will be patient and explain it all to them. Of course, I can certainly understand how Premier Ford could jump to the

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 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

conclusion that some U.S. Governors are uninformed, particularly after reading how Greg Abbott, (R) governor of the GREAT state of Texas, reportedly expressed condolences to Rosalynn Carter over the recent loss of her husband Jimmy.

But, all of that holier-than-thou trolling of Governor Abbott aside, Premier Ford's proactive entreaties to some northern Governors kind of reminds me of the nerdy guy in Grade 9 trying to convince his girlfriend from last year in Grade 8 that even as they embark on their journey into secondary school together and new avenues for personal fulfillment open up to them, it would still be of mutual benefit to them both if they maintained their gawky pre-pubescent elementary school friendship. Mr. Trudeau, on the other hand, seemed like the self-assured class leader who didn't appear much interested in trying to persuade the returning former colleague that doing things differently this time around could, likewise, be of mutual benefit. He gave the impression of suspecting that the previously one term class president was just going to make the same questionable decisions as last time and do what he wanted to do anyways so why waste time trying to convince him otherwise.

Of course, if high stakes politics could be conceptualized as nothing more than high school drama, then maybe all this hand wringing over the second coming of Mr. Trump wouldn't be garnering so much discussion. In fact, witnessing all the political power that he has amassed this time around actually gives me some solace because it makes me think of an old adage I used to hear - give someone enough rope and there's a good chance they will (metaphorically) hang themselves. But even if he does manage to avoid that outcome, the GREAT Depression lasted longer than four years and people managed to survive that. (There's that darn double-edged sword of a word again.) It's not like he can reverse the two term limit amended into the American Constitution in 1951. I mean, that would be comparable to the way things are done in China. Or Russia. Why, you might as well speculate that enshrined historical Supreme Court decisions like Roe vs. Wade could be overturned. Oh wait. It was. By U.S. Supreme Court Justices. Oh oh.

Almaguin Dog Sled Race Continued

This free community event is a fantastic way to embrace the winter season, connect with neighbors, and experience the thrill of dog sled racing firsthand. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a budding photographer, or simply looking for a fun family outing, the Almaguin Dog Sled Races offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars for January 18th and 19th, and come join the excitement. Cheer on the teams, explore the silent auction, and enjoy the best of what the Almaguin Highlands community has to offer. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable weekend!

OLD WIVES TALES

~Accidentally mixing up the salt and sugar in a recipe is a sweet sign, it predicts good news.

~If you knock your chair over while getting up from the table, it’s a sign you lied while sitting there.

-Spilling Salt -At one time salt was a rare commodity and thought to have magical powers. It has long been useful as a preservative, in medicine, and is also used in magic, ritual, and superstition to purify, bless things, and drive away evil. It was unfortunate to spill salt and one had to take a pinch of it and throw it over their left shoulder to undo any bad luck, and ward off the devil that may lurk behind.

~Never take your broom with you when you move, always buy a new one or any bad luck you had will follow you.

- Breaking a Mirror - Our ancestors began this superstition, because they thought the image in a mirror, contained our actual soul. Thus, a broken mirror, represented the soul being pulled from your body and being trapped in all the shattered pieces. The reason the bad luck lasted for seven years, was because the Romans believed that after seven years, the body was physically renewed and the soul could once again return whole. Cure: To break the spell of misfortune from a broken mirror, you must wait seven hours, (one for each year of bad luck), before picking up the broken pieces, and bury them outside, in the moonlight.

WHITESTONE PUBLIC LIBRARY - BEAUTIFUL NEW DISPLAY QUILT

DUNCHURCH: The Whitestone Library has a beautiful displayed on one of its walls. This handmade quilt was pieced together by members of the Pine Tree Quilters' Guild of Muskoka and of Theresa Whitmell of Dunchurch added the borders, quilting and binding. What a beautiful addition!

DARLENE ROSS

(IN THIS PHOTO: DARLENE ROSS PRESENTING A CHEQUE TO PATTI PAUL)

MAGNETAWAN: Hello Magnetawan The tally for the 2025 Magnetawan Calendars - Feed a Belly , is in !!! I presented the cheque to the Food Pantry today. A huge thank you to the photographers for contributing their photos of the Mag and surrounding areas to make a beautiful calendar for 2025. The photographers were Alana Ellis Boyd, Katie Beam, Steven Croswell Sarah Delyea, Jodie Paul, Jeanne Tilson, Tiffany Rennie, and myself, Darlene Ross A huge thank you to the community for purchasing the calendars again this year and supporting to “help feed a belly”

in Magnetawan. For all the generosity, we were able to exceed last year’s contribution. We contributed $1,512.00 to the Magnetawan Food Pantry. A huge win. We still have a number of calendars available in the local stores and with some of the photographers. If you’re still interested in purchasing one, it’s not too late !!!! Let me know. Once again everyone, thank you for everyone’s generosity. Darlene

If there are any political parties wishing to advertise in the “Politically Incorrect” section of the Great North Arrow , please give Jim a call. I will be waiting and waiting and waiting. If there are any “socialist” out there that wish to advertise, please don’t call. You’re just not funny. That was a joke so please don’t get your undies all tied up in a knot.

A SOUTHERN VIEW

OH GREAT. Four More Years. Stephen Lehman

I’m gonna work on being less condescending. (Condescending means to talk down to people)

Between 1902 and 1907 the same tiger killed 436 people in India.

the first interactive

Data Processor-1) mainframe

PDP-1

NAVIGATING MY LIFE

Die with Zero

Michelle Budiwski

I just finished listening to Die with Zero by Bill Perkins on Spotify, and it left me with so much to think about! As a 50-year-old woman with two grown kids, two pre-teens, this book felt like a wake-up call, especially after a recent cancer diagnosis that’s forced me to confront my mortality. While it’s not written for those still struggling financially, its principles about valuing experiences and connections over money hold universal wisdom. The main idea—that we should prioritize creating memories and living fully instead of hoarding wealth to leave behind—challenged much of what I’ve been taught. For years, I’ve been told to focus on saving for retirement and live below my means, and often felt guilty when I didn't. This book reminded me that time is finite. The concept of “time buckets” resonated deeply. Perkins emphasizes spending money on experiences when they align with your stage in life and physical ability. How many times have I said, “Someday I’ll…”? With my diagnosis, “someday” isn’t guaranteed, and this book inspired me to act now—to take those trips, enjoy those moments, and stop waiting. One of the most profound takeaways was the idea of giving to your children while you’re alive. Instead of leaving a windfall when we're gone, Seeing the impact of that generosity while I’m still here is so much more meaningful. Perkins also challenges the societal obsession with overworking and

over-saving, often driven by fear rather than planning. As I look toward retirement in 5-10 years, this perspective hit hard. Am I working longer than necessary? Am I putting away too much for my later years? Could that time be better spent traveling, money spent investing in my kids, or making memories with my younger children now when I'm here and healthy enough to enjoy it? Even when I struggled financially, I wish I’d understood the importance of intentionally creating joy with what little I had. Die with Zero isn’t just about money; it’s a call to live intentionally and generously. Life is unpredictable. If you’re ready to rethink how you value time and money, I highly recommend this book. #DieWithZero #IntentionalLiving #makememories

Michelle Budiwski is a passionate advocate for social change, lifelong learning, and community empowerment. With over 25 years of experience in business, education, and advocacy, she uses her voice to inspire action and foster equity and inclusion.

Currently navigating her personal journey with stage 3 rectal cancer, Michelle shares her experiences and insights through writing, radio, and podcasts, focusing on resilience, education, and addressing social issues. Her work emphasizes the importance of accessible learning opportunities and creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all.

Michelle's mission is to empower individuals, spark meaningful conversations, and drive positive change in communities.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ michelle-budiwski / Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/MBudiwski/Instagram: @michellebudiwski

freeboard height is only inches, enabling a rescuer to easily pull a victim into the craft. This also allows a diver, with tanks on, to pull themselves into the craft with minimal effort. The two entry portals on either end also act as carrying points which provide a perimeter of safety in case of sudden ice failure or mud sinking. These carrying points are comfortably at your sides. Carrying the RDC is like using a litter with long handles, which, by the way, is one of its many uses. We love our furry friends just as much as you and we ask that you put a floatation

There was a sign on the lawn at a drug re-hab center that said 'Keep off the Grass'.

When William joined the army he disliked the phrase 'fire at will'.

Construction workers hard hats were first invented and used in the building of the Hoover Dam in 1933.

In 1961, MIT student Steve Russell, created SPACEWARS,

computer game, on a Digital

(Programmed

computer. Limited by the computer technology of the time, ASCII text characters were the ‘graphics’ and people could only play the game on a device that took up the floorspace of a small house.

be your year, well done!

Here are the personal best scores for January 7th:

1 Gamers: David Knoll 122, Sandra Minka 108, David Cadeau 107, James Peters 102, Lori 95, Larry Hollingshead 92, Nathalie Viau 77, Marcelle Chartrand 73.

2 Gamers: Erica Summers 149, Blake McIssac 132, Keith Piegan 112, Lise Covell 106.

3 Gamers: Hudson Booth 238, Patrick Prentice 184, Fred Campbell 183, John Tomkins 170, Stefanie Carleton 159, Christina Campbell 152, Justin Robinson 125, Darwyn Follick 120, Kirsten Swanston 119, Ethen Corrigan 119, Lois Aho 109, Emma Pare 108, Sherri Woods 107, Jerry Welch 102, Joanne Storring 98. Congratulations to all the athletes for always giving it their best! I want to send out huge birthday wishes to all those with birthdays in January: Christina Campbell, Wayne Spraggett, Sherri Woods, Tania MacDonnell & Coach Brad Ireland. Wishing you all an awesome day! Keep warm everyone, and remember, when you can't be anything else, please be kind...

Cyndi and I had the opportunity to go down to The Red Canoe restaurant in Kearney to have dinner and listen to a friend of ours play and sing. Gary Graham puts on a great show. I might add that the Red Canoe was awesome as well. It was a great combo. If you get the chance to go listen to Gary, do it.

The Wooden City

Jim Shedden

Kirk Du Guid is a resident of Burk’s Falls with a remarkable history. He served in the Canadian Military and later with the OPP. He is also the author of over 15 books, which include both novels and what I like to call “the real deal” nonfiction works.

While attending a craft show in Kearney in early December, I encountered Kirk and his books. One particular title caught my eye: “The Wooden City”. This book is one of those “real deal” stories that seem almost unbelievable. Have you ever heard of a prisoner of war camp that allowed the prisoners to print their own newspaper? This camp was a German POW facility that housed Allied prisoners. I found it hard to believe that the Nazis could be so lenient. However, it turns out this was during World War I. Even though they were enemies, it seems the POWs were treated with a degree of respect.

The newspaper was actually printed in a small German town near the POW camp. I’m still trying to fully grasp these historical details. It’s a fascinating read. If you would like a copy, here is Kirk’s email address: kirkdu37@gmail.com

As a side note: the photo below has Kirk’s uncle (far left-stnding) who was a POW.

BAIN LAKE CHRONICALS

BABY RAPTOR

Tamara Bain

At the risk of sounding like an unimaginative kid at a school’s public speaking competition, let me tell you about my cat! I’ve been pining for a kitten for a few years now, but then my lovely senior cat, Queen Wendy, developed feline diabetes and required a lot of care. It’s been a year now of learning how to manage her symptoms, (basically becoming even more of a slave to her Royal Highness,), my yearnings for another housemate began anew.

Larry’s cousins down the road from us rescued a kitten last summer, only to discover the poor little thing was pregnant with kittens of her own, even though she was just 6 months old, (don’t get me started on people who do not take responsibility for their animals).

The tiny mother cat had 3 kittens in October. The owners kept one kitten but needed to find good homes for its two siblings, a male and female. Taking it as a sign, after all it was literally 2 minutes from our house, who could argue with that logic?

Certainly not LSL, aka, Long Suffering Larry, my poor dear husband! In my defence, I did tell him I was thinking about getting a kitten from them.

Larry, knowing me well enough by now, just stood there, a defeated look on his face as he asked, “So, when are you picking it up?”

“Tomorrow!”, I chirped excitedly.

I chose the little tabby female as male cat dander really sets off my allergies, (it’s a real thing, ask Mrs Google). They all had extra toes and the name search began for such a unique little creature. ‘Polly’ for polydactyl, was a contender, as was ‘Mitzy’, because she looked like she had little white mittens. All the while I was walking around the house calling her ‘Tiddlywinks’, and the name kind of grew on LSL. Tiddlywinks it was, (I had to let Himself think he had some choice).

The first week was a challenge; the baby was really tiny, and although she was physically able to be away from her mom at 8 weeks old, she was still very attached to her little family. She was so small we hardly slept for fear of smothering her by rolling on top of her, which actually happened twice. To make matters more difficult, the new baby loves Larry, (that man’s a real babe magnate…), who is also an ultra-light sleeper. She particularly loved sleeping on his face, setting his claustrophobia into full gear. I spent most nights on the couch, trying to sleep in between the baby’s pouncing and chewing on any exposed body part, thereby earning her nickname, Baby Raptor.

I’ve been reminded about 489 times in the last 4 weeks since I brought little Tiddly home, why we have our children when we’re young. I was exhausted!

In desperation I even enlisted the help of my grandchildren to come over for playdates after school to try and wear-out the little ball of fur. Overnight my house was transformed into a kitten playground; toy mousies hung from the ceiling, boxes with hidden kitty toys and plastic crinkle bags

scattered about, a labyrinth of yarn hung from the beam across the house. My oldest grandson even gave the kitten a stuffed bunny for Christmas that he bought with his own money! Gradually the little-beast-with-razorfeet-and-sabretooth-tiger-fangs settled into somewhat of a routine and, for the most part, let us sleep at night.

We’ve learned to shuffle our feet everywhere we go, (which actually works out well as we’re sleep deprived anyways), like the walking wounded, while Baby Raptor careens off door frames, ricocheting off our feet as she tears around going ninety miles per hour, a flurry of cat hair and dust trailing in her wake. Experience has taught us to keep anything that contains blood, undercover at night or risk another round with Polysporin and Band-Aids. We’re training our bladders to hold-it throughthe-night for fear of awakening The Kraken. And everything, everything, from fallen Q-tips, cooking onions, misguided tissues, to accidentally wiggling a stray toe, becomes prey for the mighty Raptor. And laugh, oh how we laugh. Even the, “I don’t like cats!”, 'big-grumpy-ole-guy' who lives in her house, laughs at the kitten's antics. Who needs TV?

The 100-pound dog is terrified of the 2.5 pound BEAST as she mercilessly attacks her feet, tail and anything else that looks tasty. It’s no consolation whatsoever when the owner of the kitten’s mom tells me how her sibling is nothing like my tiny-terror. But then really it should come as no surprise as I’ve never had a ‘normal’ critter. I owned a pot-belly pig who thought she was a dog and would sit for treats. I had a Tom cat that would walk with us everywhere and sit at the end of the road, waiting for the kids to come home from school. Wendy 's fondness of exploring vehicles made it a camp rule to check all vehicles for sleeping cats before departure. We have a Canada goose who thinks it’s a duck and refuses to fly south. My granddog, whom I raised for her first year, acts like a jealous girlfriend anytime my son goes anywhere and sits in the vehicle, sulking until he gives in. And Bella dog has had her very own emotional-support-cat since she was a pup; she drags him by his scruff down stairs and delights in gently nibbling up and down the poor cats’ spine.

In actuality, little Tiddlywinks fits-in just fine around this Funny Farm!

The Queen is NOT amused though; the brat will not leave her alone, stalking Her Highness relentlessly, trying to play. Despite many, many warning growls as if to say, “Back off twit!” and ferocious paw slaps, the kitten is determinedly-dumb in her quest to win over The Ruler. She tears around chirping like the Raptor she is, always on the hunt for another unsuspecting victim.

When I brought the tiny, blue-eyed kitty home in the middle of December, she fit nicely in one hand. She looked so sweet and innocent.

Since then, she’s at least doubled in size, she stalks around switching her tiny tail back and forth, the attitude of at least a mountain lion, she no longer falls down the stairs but bounds up like a squirrel hoppedup on too much caffeine, and can easily jump 2-3 feet straight up or from chair to bed in one mighty leap.

In an instant the cute little baby cat will transform into a long, lanky teenager, the kitten stage left in the wake of bloody tissues and bandaid wrappers.

Despite being held captive by a miniature terrorist for the last month, it was just what I needed to get through another dark and cold winter.

Maybe getting a kitten every winter is just what the doctor ordered?

On the other hand, maybe I should expect a courier at the door delivering divorce papers, any minute now?! Tamara Bain, punctured and bleeding in Loring.

change the honey to syrup and made 4 bars instead of 6 square portions) Enjoy this low cal, high protein, no bake recipe!

Another fun idea is to roll them into balls and coat with non sweetened coconut before refrigeration for a quick energy snack! Dried unsweetened cranberries make them delicious too! (although higher in calories and carbs!)

Share your recipes with us! greatnortharrow@gmail.com

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

ON LAKE TIME SHORT STORIES AND LIFE EXPERIENCES

Bernie Giesler

Fun Facts Canada: Legal Tender

with Dog On A Root

- jim Young, LORING, ON

Community which consists of countries such as Bermuda, The Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and many more.

the nearest 5 cents although non-cash payments such as cheque, credit or debit will continue to be charged in one-cent increments.

Over the last ten or fifteen years I have written a few short stories and poems of life experiences, some funny, some sad, some informative. Friends and family have found them to be interesting and encouraged me to do more and perhaps even write a book.

In school, English classes were just something that needed to be taken to get the credits in order to complete high school, shop classes were much more interesting. Nouns, adjectives and whatever other terms to describe words were ignored, who needs that stuff when you are a young teenager without a care.

But I did love to read, anything actually, from the back of a cereal box to Hardy Boys to science books for kids. To this day I still do read, mostly in an electronic format

now.

All that reading has perhaps allowed me to write well enough for others to enjoy, the only reason for me to do so.

Yesterday my phone died while performing an update and it took me several hours of frustration bringing it back to life. That episode made me concerned that all the stories that were stored on my phone would be forever lost and a book of short stories would never come to be. So today the old dusty printer was turned on and the paper started flowing into a collection of seventy-four my tales, more than I had expected. There are many more that were neglected to be saved but as Facebook memories come up each day perhaps a few more will be added to the pile.

“The mint makes it first. It’s up to you to make it last.” - Evan Esar

In the 1950s my father would sometimes go to his IGA Store on a Sunday when it was closed to butcher a deer that one of the locals had shot during hunting season. I was old enough to understand that this was separate from the regular activities of his grocery business and not a function of his usual duties. It was kind of a side job for him that he performed on his own time.

So I asked my father one night, “Who owns the place where they make the money?” My father explained that our money was made at the mint in Ottawa and no one owned it per se. The mint was operated by the Canadian Government.

That derailed my original line of thought but I quickly came up with an alternate plan.

“Well,” I continued undaunted, “What if you worked at the mint and they let you have the keys to go in on a Sunday on your own time and you paid for all the supplies with your own money - could you just print your own money and keep it?” I had reasoned that the cost of the paper and ink would likely be less than the face value of the dollars that could be produced.

That led to a lengthy explanation from my father about what counterfeiting entailed and why it was illegal and immoral. It was just one of many similar lectures I was to receive from my father over the next few years as he strived to keep me on a straight and narrow path into adulthood.

Manufacturing Money (Legally) In Canada

The Royal Mint in Ottawa was opened on January 2, 1908 with Governor General, Earl Grey striking the first coin minted in Canada - a silver 50 cent piece bearing the likeness of King Edward VII.

(Check your piggy bank to see if you have one of those babies hidden away somewhere. It’s likely worth considerably more than 50 cents now.)

The Royal Mint in Ottawa was a branch of the Royal Mint in London, England until 1931 when the Canadian Government took control of it, renaming it the Royal Canadian Mint.

Since 1935 The Canadian Bank Note Company has been charged with producing all of Canada’s paper money. The same paper was also used by the CBNC to manufacture Canadian Tire currency from 1958 until it was discontinued by the CTC in 2020 due to the Covid epidemic.

The CBNC is also responsible for the manufacture of postage stamps, driver’s licenses, birth certificates and passports for the Canadian Government as well as machine readable passports for the Caribbean

In 1976 the Royal Canadian Mint opened a facility in Winnipeg to manufacture all of Canada’s circulation coinage leaving the Ottawa facility to manufacture “hand-crafted collector coins, bullion products in pure gold, silver, platinum, as well as medals and medallions.”

In addition to the Canadian coins produced, the Winnipeg facility also manufactures coins for 75 other countries including New Zealand, Cuba, Norway, Iceland, Uganda, Colombia, Yemen and Thailand. Legal Tender

There is a lot of misinformation regarding what is and what isn’t legal tender and

how it can and cannot be used.

The following banknotes are no longer legal tender in Canada: $1, $2, $25, $500 and $1,000. That means they are no longer considered money. Their face value can still be redeemed at the Bank of Canada but no vendor is obligated to accept them as payment for goods.

Of course a vendor may accept any of these banknotes as payment if they wish. In fact a vendor may accept anything from your pet Guinea Pig to your used and broken snow blower as payment so long as the vendor and buyer mutually agree upon the terms.

Credit cards, debit cards and cheques are not considered legal tender and can be refused by the vendor as a form of payment.

Regardless of how old they may be, all denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 issued by the Bank of Canada are legal tender provided they aren’t torn or mutilated. Torn and mutilated banknotes may still be redeemed by the Bank of Canada in some cases.

All coins manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint are legal tender unless they are defaced, bent, mutilated or reduced in weight. This includes the Canadian 50 cent piece which is only sold by the mint now at double the face value and the Silver Dollar which is obsolete but still in limited use.

Even the penny which hasn’t been produced since 2012 or distributed since 2013 is still considered legal tender and must be accepted as a form of payment. But as they are no longer being distributed, vendors are not expected to return exact change to the penny. As an alternative, vendors are encouraged to round purchases to

The government rounding guidelines dictate that purchases should be rounded down if the purchase is 1 or 2 cents over the nearest denomination for which a coin is available and rounded up if the purchase is 1 or 2 cents shy of the nearest denomination.

Rounding for cash payments however, should only be on the final total after all duties, taxes and fees have been applied. Can A Vendor Refuse Cash Payments?

Absolutely. A vendor has the right to accept any form of payment they prefer whether it be (but not limited to) Cash, Credit, Debit, Cheque or even Guinea Pigs and snow blowers as indicated above. But there is no law that dictates a vendor must accept any of these forms of payment - not even cash.

If a vendor did not have the right to refuse cash payments, they would not be able to refuse to take a Canadian $50 or $100 banknote as we sometimes see in stores that might not carry sufficient cash to make change or may be wary of counterfeit money being passed. Are There Limits?

How many of us have ever considered making a large payment with a large number of small coins out of spite because we had a beef with a vendor?

Although coins are considered legal tender, there is also a legal limit as to how many coins a vendor must accept as payment, providing they accept cash at all.

The largest payment you can make with just coins in Canada would be $75.25 using a maximum of 310 coins as per the limits shown here. Of course the vendor may opt to choose to extend these limits but is not required by law to accept more than 25 pennies, 100 nickels, 100 dimes, 40 quarters, 25 loonies, and 20 toonies for a single payment. Further to that, the Currency Act goes on to say that one purchase from the same place in one day is considered to be one total amount for the purpose of these limitations. So if you want to pay that vendor with coins again in another purchase, you have to wait until the next day to do so. Even a nicely wrapped roll of pennies or toonies can be denied as payment as these rolls exceed the legal limit.

The bottom line is, if you have a lot of coins you want to get rid of, your only options may be to take them to the bank and have them converted into banknotes or spend them a little at a time. On the other hand, with today’s prices, it might not take that long to get rid of them.

Now, if you want to buy that $5,000, 85”, Smart TV at Costco and pay for it with 1,000 x $5 banknotes, knock yourself out. There’s no law against that.

- 30 -

To read more of jim’s articles, visit www. dogonaroot.com

start contacting our MP Scott

Canada’s Health Care System in Crisis: Over 74,000 Deaths Due to Wait Times Since 2018

GNA STAFF- Cyndi Culbert- Thousands of Canadians face an agonizing reality: lengthy wait times for critical medical treatments. For many, these delays have proven fatal. Since 2018, more than 74,000 Canadians have reportedly died while waiting for surgeries, diagnostic tests, or other vital procedures, according to a report by public policy think tank SecondStreet.org. Mounting Death Toll and Strained Services - The fiscal year 2023-2024 saw at least

15,474 Canadians die while on medical wait lists. This figure, experts warn, may only scratch the surface due to incomplete data from key regions such as Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Quebec. Many patients face months or years in limbo, awaiting diagnoses and referrals, only to succumb to their conditions before receiving care. The wait times affect a broad spectrum of procedures, including life-saving heart surgeries, cancer treatments, and essential diagnostic scans. In some cases, delays for non-life-threatening conditions, such as hip replacements, still result in devastating outcomes due to complications. It’s a grim national trend, the issue is not confined to one region or demographic; it is a systemic issue impacting Canadians across the country. SecondStreet.org’s

annual report, titled "Died on a Waiting List," has documented harrowing cases of preventable deaths year after year since it began tracking this data in 2018. "These numbers are alarming," said Colin Craig, President of SecondStreet.org. "And they’re likely an underestimate given the gaps in reporting. Canadians deserve better from their health care system."

Is Canada lagging behind? Critics point out that Canada’s health care system, while universally accessible, lags behind other countries with similar systems. "Canadians pay some of the highest taxes in the world, yet we see worse outcomes compared to countries in Europe," said Harrison Fleming, Legislative and Policy Director at SecondStreet.org. He emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms to reduce wait times and improve access to care. Beyond the numbers, individual stories underscore the human toll of these delays. How many people do you know who’s health care is being affected? Perhaps its even yours!

Families across Canada have shared experiences of loved ones enduring unnecessary suffering or passing away while waiting for care. Such stories have become alarmingly common, fueling calls for immediate government action, perhaps its time for all of us to become involved,

on federal levels and locally our MPP

Smith at the provincial level. Let’s face it, we need help! We are in need of a call for change! Health care advocates and experts agree that addressing the crisis requires bold reforms, including improved data collection, better resource allocation, and potentially adopting models from higher-performing systems abroad. Without these changes, thousands more Canadians will face preventable hardships—or worse. And bottom line, we need more Health Care Professionals!

How many more lives must be lost before substantial reforms are implemented? For now, the health care system remains under immense pressure, and its citizens bear the consequences.

Have you been one of the unfortunates awaiting health care treatments in the last few years? Can you even get an appointment with your Doctor? Are you lucky enough to actually have a General Practioner to begin with? or are you forced to sit in an Emergency Room for 8-12 hours just to be seen and most often referred to a specialist that you won’t hear from for months and months.

Send us a note, we would love to hear your story. www.greatnortharrow@gmail.com

Aitchison

Graydon

An asteroid threatens to crash on Earth! The solution: The Liberals introduces an asteroid tax. Earth is saved

11M SUSPICIOUS OF PEOPLE WHO DON'T LIKE DOGS, BUT I TRUST A DOG WHEN IT DOESN'T LIKE A PERSON. -Bill Murray

The first professional football team to sport an insignia on their helmets was the Los Angeles Rams in 1950, who hand painted yellow horns on their blue leather helmets.

REMEMERING ROD

MAYBE TIME TO GET OUT THE FONDUE?

Rod Urquhart

(Last Chapter) I wrote about the House of York and how sensational the food was it got me thinking about the top three meal experiences of my life and one of those was a fondue dinner not an ordinary fondue dinner but one of exquisite depth you see my wife’s best friend Arlene and her partner Tom who had been living near us for some time we're moving back to Nanaimo the very next day they would be packing up their vehicles and heading West

To you celebrate - Arlene who is one of the most innovative chefs I have ever had the pleasure of dining with - decided to celebrate our last night together, we'd have a Fondue - like I said not an ordinary fondue dinner party!

First off Arlene had four large Fondue pots boiling on the huge dining room table, which was completely covered in sauces of every type imaginable, meats of all kinds, fruits and vegetables galore, breads by the plentiful, and all sorts of oddities, like cut up pears and peaches to put in the fondue pots.

Two of the fondue pots were boiling oil for the meats; the middle one was a cheese mixture for stuff like breads and fruits and the fourth was a chocolate Fondue pot, perfect for the huge amount of strawberries, blueberries, diced banana chunks, melon chunks and other fruit Arlene had put out

Well, we had the tunes playing old 60s music and the wine flowing and we started

Caregiver

Deborah Bussey

Caregiver definition: a family member or paid helper who regularly looks after a child or sick, elderly or disabled person.

My personal opinion is that this definition doesn’t cut it. It does not fully explain all the intricacies of what goes into actually “being” a caregiver. It’s a broad stroke with many gaps. How do I know this? At the ripe age of cough cough.....I can tell you I have been on both ends. I spent many years as a caregiver whether for family or as a hired PSW. My heart carries pieces of each person I had the privilege to help, and I am truly grateful to them because not only did I learn from them but they also helped me grow as a person. The other day I read my sweet friend’s post and it made me cry. She spoke of her journey as a “caregiver” which brought a flood of memories back into the foreground for me. With her permission, I am going to share with you her words, a small piece of her journey so that if you find yourself in a similar situation you will know you are not alone. We are here...... Lianne posts; “What is a Caregiver” A caregiver is a person who does not have the disease or health issue, but is the person who bears the responsibility. From the time your spouse, friend, family member gets sick you become the “go to”. You make the decisions, not just on basic day to day decisions but, healthcare, homecare, vacations/no vacations, should you do A or should you do B. You become fluent in medical terms, advice and unsolicited advice, you become the person they most depend on. You eventually begin living a diseased life, all about, what happens....if. Everyone tells you how strong you are, when all you want to do is run and run, maybe some screaming in there. Some people understand that some of your decision making may be flawed, and others are angry because you are not doing what they expect of you. The person you care for you love more than anything on this earth. It hurts you to the core to see them suffer, when they have pain, you have pain. When they forget or look foolish to others because the disease has taken some of their

into this feast at about 6:30 p.m - we each had about eight of these Fondue sticks to poke around in the mini pots. We actually did not need that many spears for the food but it added to the eclectic night.

Well Arlene’s Tom is a hunter of great skill and not only did Arlene provide an abundance of prime steak for frying and prime rib, but Tom provided a whack of bear meat and he had recently shot a deer, so we had an abundance of deer meat, everything neatly diced for cooking in a Fondue.

I have to say the wine flowed; the conversation flowed and this fondue dinner was absolutely sensational, like I said we sat down at 6:30 PM and my wife and Darlene were stuffed by 8:30 PM Tom lingered on about another 15 minutes then he retired with the girls but I was in profound heaven the bear and the deer meat done on a fondue or so very very tasty then you top it off with some bread or fruit in the thick cheese fondue and I hadn't even experienced the chocolate fondue pot yet I was just enjoying every savory morsel of this delightful meal

It was definitely one of the top three meals of my life those three had retired to the living room but I carried on for another hour maybe even longer I have to say I was supremely enjoying myself Arlene and Tom drove off the next day out West to Nanaimo a Aase and I settled back into our existence without them, missing them terribly., but it was a grande finale night with this to some that I will never forget just to illustrate Arlene’s love of food and mastery of it her son Greg, became a red seal chef after learning the ropes from Arlene

Somewhere in my garage I have an expensive fondue dinner party set that my younger sister gave me gave to my parents as an anniversary gift I think I will dig it out

(Post script: Arlene and Tom are still living in Nanaimo, B C. Arlene did fly back to Ontario for a Aase's 65th birthday celebration I held down at old Madson’s banquet hall and I am hoping she and Tom this time I will fly back for my wife 70th celebration in 2023 that I am now planning.

best parts, you become protective yet, in the next instance you are angry because they cannot do what they could before. The emotional roller coaster you are on takes your identity from you. You try to hide anger, disappointment and resentment. But, it is just under the first layer trying desperately to get out.

You are disappointed in yourself for not being more understanding. It is hard to be understanding when you have to watch the love of your life slowly fading away.

I would exchange my life for his just to see and have my friend, lover and life partner disease free. To all the caregivers out there, do not be hard on yourself. I see you.

Her words sum up what a lot of caregivers experience on a daily basis. It doesn’t just stop at the end of the day, no, it carries forward hidden just under the surface for years. There is no magic potion to bring relief. The person you care for isn’t lost in all this as they are the recipients of the empathy, compassion and deep seeded love that comes from the caregiver with no strings attached. It comes from their soul and amplifies out to bring dignity through respect and love to another human being.

The role of “caregiver” is not entered into lightly nor is it one where there is some gratification expected. It is a selfless act of love and kindness that often goes unnoticed and unrewarded. A caregiver will tell you they do not do it for recognition, they do it out of love.

If you know someone who is a caregiver, I encourage you to reach out to them and offer an ear. They don’t need your advice, they need an understanding ear to listen, a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on. They are often depleted from giving so much of themselves. They often need to be taken away from their burdens through activities that enrich their soul or taking their minds off of the pressures they are under. Giving them a much needed break, spending time with them over a cup of tea, sharing a laugh or the best medicine of all....a hug. Try to remember there is more to a story than meets the eye. Depending on our vantage point we will see only a portion of what another endures.

My heart goes out to all those who are suffering, all who find themselves in a position where they must rely on another for care and to all those who step up to the plate and give the greatest gift one can give to another.....themselves.

In a world where we can be anything....I hope you choose to be kind.

What if it was you or someone you knew that was waiting for their life saving service?

Stop and think for a moment about the big storm in December 2024 that shut down Highway 11 between Gravenhurst and Huntsville. How many people could not receive care or get lifesaving treatment because some did not check the weather before heading out and became part of those who required rescuing? Over 500 transports were stuck in that mess. Complaints were posted by angry individuals criticizing the road conditions, they were not being cleared fast enough, people were stranded, what are our tax dollars paying for! Well....to be blunt....not for idiots who venture out and create a worse mess and put others in jeopardy because of their stupidity! Yet, there were many who were first responders on their way to work who were caught up in the mess. When you create a situation by not having your vehicle winter ready you are only adding to the burden. Who got lost in all this were the individuals who could not get their life saving treatment or assistance because of the tragic situation. We have to start thinking about the big picture and how our actions may cause a ripple effect. If it isn’t a matter of life and death stay the heck home! Were there good Samaritans who brought food, water etc. to the stranded? Yes, absolutely and they should be recognized for their efforts.

for the

What about the Hydro One workers? There were many areas without power for days yet crews were dispatched out and worked in those horrendous conditions in order to try and restore power. Travelling to the trouble spots not to mention the high winds, the bitter cold temperatures, blowing/blinding snow never mind the sheer amount of it....all to restore power. Mother Nature is unpredictable and no matter what you may think she cannot be controlled. Our local weather broadcasters give us the gist of what is coming and by now we should be able to put two and two together! It's a crap shoot in other words. She requires respect! Just saying. It doesn’t matter if it was doctors, nurses, PSWs, Hydro workers, EMS, ambulance, fire, police, snow plow operators or Wheel Trans drivers like Paul....they are the true heroes. The ones who step up to the plate and go the extra mile to help another human being under imperfect conditions every single day. It takes a truly special person to be an essential worker. I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of them. We are all very fortunate to have you in our communities. Next time you are out and come across an essential worker please take a moment and thank them for their service. A little kindness goes a long way. Just saying. Thank you Thank you Thank you Chi Miigwetch

by replacing another bridge deck. Thanks to Rodney Haining, Marc Rochefort, Dennis Quinn, Jason Fulcher, Terry Sharer, Peter Matheson, Dave Hils, Bryan Kalbfleisch and some who travelled some distance to help Luc Larochelle (Burlington) Max Kalbfleisch (Tavistock) and Jay Tyios (Dundas). A big thank you to Justin at Yeti’s Pizza located in Emsdale and Burks Falls for the best pizza in the north and Cheryl

for the awesome sweets.

New Spay and Neuter Clinic Opens in Gravenhurst, Addressing a Critical Need in Muskoka and Areas North

GNA STAFF WRITER: Cyndi Culbert- Dr. Patricia Lechten, a veterinarian from Barrie and recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Veterinarian Award from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, has recognized the pressing need for affordable pet care in the Muskoka region. To address this, she will manage a new spay and neuter clinic located at 571 Muskoka Rd. North in Gravenhurst.

The clinic, owned by NVA Canada, aims to provide low-cost services to pet owners who struggle to afford traditional veteri-

Vaccinations, Nail trimming, Microchipping, and Blood work prior to surgery.

The goal is to deliver these services in a compassionate and personal manner. The clinic wants pet owners to feel like they’re receiving the same care as they would at a regular day practice. Post-procedure support will be available via phone or email, ensuring that clients never feel rushed or overlooked and the clinic still conveys the personal and compassionate care touch.

Operating Hours and Expansion Plans: Initially, the clinic will operate two days a week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, if demand continues to grow, the team plans to expand their hours to eliminate long waitlists, which currently extend six months or more in some areas. The clinic will be staffed by a dedicated team of five, all committed to providing high-quality, affordable care for pets. For more details about services and pricing, call 705-687-6663 or visit the Graven-

nary care. Many residents north of Muskoka lack access to veterinarians, and this clinic seeks to fill that gap by focusing on responsible pet population control. They will provide a range of essential services, including: Spay and Neuter surgeries,

Awesome job boys!!! Today the Almaguin Snowmobile Club spent the day getting the trails ready

forecasted snow coming this week

Hoeksma

hurst Spay and Neuter Clinic website. This new clinic represents a significant step forward in addressing the critical need for affordable and accessible veterinary care in Muskoka and surrounding regions.

Charlie Chaplin once won third prize in a Charlie Chaplin look-alike contest.

Why did everyone want to hang out with the mushroom? Because he was a fungi.

In 1825, Upper Peru became Bolivia.

Your stomach needs to produce a new layer of mucus every two weeks or it would digest itself.

Former Prime Minister of Canada Jean Chrétien Celebrates 91st Birthday

Writing in The Globe and Mail on his 91st birthday, Chrétien who held office from 1993 to 2003 said: “To Donald Trump, from one old guy to another, give your head a shake! What could make you think Canadians would ever give up the best country in the world to join the United States?” Chrétien emphasised Canada’s love for its independence and called Trump’s comments “completely unacceptable threats” to the country’s sovereignty. He added, “If you think threatening and insulting us will win us over, you truly don’t know anything about Canadians. We may seem easy-going, but we have strength and resolve”, as reported by Associated Press (AP). Jean Chretien is 91 today and he gave himself a birthday present. He told Donald J. Trump to piss off in the The Globe and Mail. Here's his column: * * * Today is my 91st birthday. It’s an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. To look back on the life I’ve had the privilege to lead. And to reflect on how much this country we all love so much has grown and changed over the course of the nine decades I’ve been on this Earth. This year, I’ve also decided to give myself a birthday present. I’m going to do something in this article that I don’t do very often anymore, and sound off on a big issue affecting the state of the nation and profoundly bothering me and so many other Canadians: The totally unacceptable insults and unprecedented threats to our very sovereignty from U.S. president-elect Donald Trump. I have two very clear and simple messages. To Donald Trump, from one old guy to another: Give your head a shake! What could make you think that Canadians would ever give up the best country in the world – and make no mistake, that is what we are – to join the United States? I can tell you Canadians prize our independence. We love our country. We have built something here that is the envy of the world – when it comes to compassion, understanding, tolerance and finding a way for people of different backgrounds and faiths to live together in harmony. We’ve also built a strong social safety net – especially with public health care – that we are very proud of. It’s not perfect, but it’s based on the principle that the most vulnerable among us should be protected. This may not be the “American Way” or “the Trump Way.” But it is the reality I have witnessed and lived my whole long life. If you think that threatening and insulting us is going to win us over, you really don’t know a thing about us. You don’t know that when it came to fighting in two world wars for freedom, we signed up –both times – years before your country did. We fought and we sacrificed well beyond our numbers. We also had the guts to say no to your country when it tried to drag us into a completely unjustified and destabilizing war in Iraq. We built a nation across the most rugged, challenging geography imaginable. And we did it against the odds. We may look easy-going. Mild-mannered. But make no mistake, we have spine and toughness. And that leads me to my second message, to all our leaders, federal and provincial, as well as those who are aspiring to lead our country: Start showing that spine and toughness. That’s what Canadians want to see – what they need to see. It’s called leadership. You need to lead. Canadians are ready to follow. I know the spirit is there. Ever since Mr. Trump’s attacks, every political party is speaking out in favour of Canada. In fact, it is to my great satisfaction that even the Bloc Québécois

Starfish don’t have brains.

is defending Canada. But you don’t win a hockey game by only playing defence. We all know that even when we satisfy one demand, Mr. Trump will come back with another, bigger demand. That’s not diplomacy; it’s blackmail. We need another approach – one that will break this cycle. Mr. Trump has accomplished one thing: He has unified Canadians more than we have been ever before! All leaders across our country have united in resolve to defend Canadian interests. When I came into office as prime minister, Canada faced a national unity crisis. The threat of Quebec separation was very real. We took action to deal with this existential threat in a manner that made Canadians, including Quebeckers, stronger, more united and even prouder of Canadian values. Now there is another existential threat. And we once again need to reduce our vulnerability. That is the challenge for this generation of political leaders. And you won’t accomplish it by using the same old approaches. Just like we did 30 years ago, we need a Plan B for 2025. Yes, telling the Americans we are their best friends and closest trading partner is good. So is lobbying hard in Washington and the state capitals, pointing out that tariffs will hurt the American economy too. So are retaliatory tariffs – when you are attacked, you have to defend yourself. But we also have to play offence. Let’s tell Mr. Trump that we too have border issues with the United States. Canada has tough gun control legislation, but illegal guns are pouring in from the U.S. We need to tell him that we expect the United States to act to reduce the number of guns crossing into Canada. We also want to protect the Arctic. But the United States refuses to recognize the Northwest Passage, insisting that it is an international waterway, even though it flows through the Canadian Arctic as Canadian waters. We need the United States to recognize the Northwest Passage as being Canadian waters. We also need to reduce Canada’s vulnerability in the first place. We need to be stronger. There are more trade barriers between provinces than between Canada and the United States.

Let’s launch a national project to get rid of those barriers! And let’s strengthen the ties that bind this vast nation together through projects such as real national energy grid.

We also have to understand that Mr. Trump isn’t just threatening us; he’s also targeting a growing list of other countries, as well as the European Union itself, and he is just getting started. Canada should quickly convene a meeting of the leaders of Denmark, Panama, Mexico, as well as with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to formulate a plan for fighting back these threats. Every time that Mr. Trump opens his mouth, he creates new allies for all of us. So let’s get organized!

To fight back against a big, powerful bully, you need strength in numbers. The whole point is not to wait in dread for Donald Trump’s next blow. It’s to build a country and an international community that can withstand those blows. Canadians know me. They know I am an optimist. That I am practical. And that I always speak my mind. I made my share of mistakes over a long career, but I never for a moment doubted the decency of my fellow Canadians – or of my political opponents. The current and future generations of political leaders should remember they are not each other’s enemies – they are opponents. Nobody ever loved the cut-and-thrust of politics more than me, but I always understood that each of us was trying to make a positive contribution to make our community or country a better place. That spirit is more important now than ever, as we address this new challenge. Our leaders should keep that in mind. I am 91 today and blessed with good health. I am ready at the ramparts to help defend the independence of our country as I have done all my life. Vive le Canada!

(This photo is from an appearance by M. Chretien on The Agenda with Steve Paikin in 2018).

The Years of the Dirty Dozen… Burk’s Falls Style

Memories of days of old and simpler times quite often come to mind. I was quite young back then, just a kid but always remember lots of good times around the holidays. Life was a little crazy at times, our parents were very young as they were in the 1960’s, and (they didn’t wait till they could AFFORD US!) And they didn’t live at home until they were 30 something! Our parent’s worked hard and played harder. Most of us were lucky enough to live in a house; we had a very pretty young Mum who was always in a dress and a Dad that went to work. Don’t forget, those were the days when our Dad’s all had lots of hair, big moustaches, big dreams and big mortgages. They were ‘young fellas’, in their prime and making their way in the world.

The ‘Dirty Dozen’ made but one

appearance each year. Often, it wasn’t a full dozen; yet, sometimes there were more if they managed to pick up some unsuspecting person along the way. The group never had a destination in mind; it was just a road trip around town. It happened in the wee hours of New Year’s Day; long before us kids were awake. In those years, Mum was up around five am to dress the 28 pound turkey for the oven, most often missing a husband. (Who cooks a bird that big now? Have we even seen one that big?)

It seems like the big New Year’s dinner has given way to a day of recovery for us now, and looking back in hindsight, no one really needed a second huge feast only one week past Christmas Dinner! This was way back in the late 60’s, when almost every one of our Mother’s was completely in charge of cooking dinner. Her hair was perfect (remember the curlers she slept in?) she wore a skirt; stockings and heels complete with apron, and resembled June Cleaver. Our Dad’s important job was to carry the old

card table chairs into the house, set up the card table for the overflow of kids and look after the drinks. Our father’s would, carve the ‘bird, eat the ‘POPES NOSE’ and Oh yes, and socialize. How times have changed!

Christmas celebrations were always for the kids and New Years for the adults. House parties were big and our parent’s would get together, all dressed up. They celebrated with the typical drink of Rye and Coke, the ladies had cocktails and sometimes they even let loose. The difference though was that no matter how badly anyone felt the next morning, family and friends gathered for the huge New Year’s Feast. The Annual ritual began quietly in the early hours; The Dozen were scooped, one by one, house by house. Stealing those still in fine shape from the evening before whether they were willing or not. The ‘Dozen’ even had to yank the odd guy out from his warm bed and despite protests; there was no escape. Back then, they were even smart enough to have one sober driver who remained nameless as their chauffeur. Chances are he was the ‘designated instigator’ the rest of you guys will remain nameless as well; you already know who you are! Not quite Dancer, and Prancer and Donner and Blitzen !!!

The year the seat belt law was about to take effect, the Dirty Dozen Gang sat in lawn chairs in the back of a work van, tied in with yellow nylon rope. Belted in, they figured if they were pulled over, they were law abiding citizens. Those were the days.

Around noon, New Year’s Day, A few very sorry and sad looking characters were rolled out of the ‘round up’ vehicle, or dumped at the end of their driveways by the sober driver. Arriving home, worn and weary, they faced the angry ‘stepford wives’. At that point the hope was that she had finished peeling potatoes for fear of a knife in hand. Our Mum’s were either screaming or dead silent, an extreme cold front generally came across the room. For the most the angriest welcome home was from Gramma, (his Mother) That was often worse than the cold icy stare from the Mum’s.

Oh to be young and foolish, year after year, promising ‘never again’ and living to tell the tale. The torch was generally passed along, a new Continued next page. ‘instigator’ the following year. I have no idea how long the tradition graced Burk’s Falls… but I know many of you know of it!

Many years have passed and this year, 2012 life is much quieter. When I look back, I miss the antics, the fun and the crazy side of life that Karen and I shared growing up in Burk’s Falls. Seems like stress and worry, the biggest and bestest has taken over everything in life. I won’t trade my memories for anything and I can only hope that if you were a part of the ‘dirty dozen’ for at least one of those wonderful years, that I made you smile. Then again, it would make a heck of a movie, maybe we should round up all of the old Dirty Dozen gang next year ….. (who shall we get to play the part of each one of you? ) Wouldn’t it be fun? If Just for a laugh.

More people are allergic to cow's milk than any other food.

A POSITIVE LOOK A MY HEALTHCARE EXPERIENCE

Since August 2024, I’ve been on a whirlwind journey through the Manitoba health care system. In just five months, I’ve had a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, two MRIs, three CT scans, a biopsy, almost weekly blood work, 25 days of chemo and radiation, weekly meetings with my oncology team, three consultations with an oncology dietitian, discussions with the oncology support social worker, and a pharmacist consultation to discuss my medication. Now, as my body heals from the intense chemo-radiation regimen, surgery is being scheduled for early March as soon as I'm deemed physically able. The cost to my family or my supplemental health insurance? $0.00. For that, I’m deeply grateful. Having access to this level of care without financial burden is a privilege that I don’t take for granted. But even as I express gratitude, I also recognize the realities and imperfections of our health care system. I wish we lived in a country where no one ever fell through the cracks, where no one lost their battle because of delays, errors, or gaps in care. I wish medical mistakes never happened, and every Canadian received timely, life-saving care when they needed it most. Our system, as remarkable as it is in many ways, has its flaws. Wait times for quality-of-life procedures are far too long. And while triage ensures the most urgent cases get treated first, it shouldn’t come at the expense of others’ health or well-being. As Canadians, it’s our responsibility to continue holding our governments accountable. We must push for change, for improvements to what is broken, and for a system that’s better than it is today.

A system where no one is left waiting, suffering, or worrying because of inefficiencies or underfunding. I remain incredibly thankful for the care I’ve received, but I’m also hopeful for what we can achieve together. Let’s ensure that our health care system isn’t just good—but great . For everyone. Always.

Point Roberts in Washington State is cut off from the rest of the state by British Columbia, Canada. If you wish to travel from Point Roberts to the rest of the state or vice versa, you must pass through Canada, including both Canadian and U.S. customs.

Michelle Budiwski

NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY IS JANUARY 29th

National Puzzle Day is celebrated on January 29th every year. It's a day that recognizes the value of puzzles and how they can benefit mental development. January is also National Puzzle Month, which is a time to promote and recognize the enjoyment of puzzles. The cold weather and long evenings of January make indoor activities like jigsaw puzzles especially appealing. And do we have the store for you! Check out Northern Bookworms, It's a beautiful bookstore, with an amazing selection of puzzles and crayola. Why not pick up a copy of the GNA, grab a delicious Laura Second Chocolate Bar and check out the puzzle selection!

Insert puzzle table

(We're proud to introduce something new to Northern Bookworms! A PUZZLE TABLE!!! This table currently features a 1000 piece Cobble Hill puzzle titled: Popular Backyard Birds of North America and customers are welcome to help us put it together! We're counting on those puzzle lovers to all lend a hand if they have a few minutes and enjoy putting puzzles together)

Northern Bookworms retail location opened in November of 2023 and is conveniently located at 70 Joseph Street in Parry Sound. The owner, Jeanette Craig-Graves is proud to have a wide range of new books for readers of all ages, including Infants and Toddlers. It's never too early to start enjoying literacy!

In addition to books Northern Bookworms is known for their continued partnership with Laura Secord, Crayola and Cobble Hill puzzles, with specific sections of the store dedicated to these products. Shown in the picture is their new puzzle table, currently showcasing a 1000-piece puzzle which customers are welcome to help put together while they are in the store! Online shopping is also available through: www. northernbookworms.com

The origins of jigsaw puzzles go back to the 1760s when European mapmakers pasted maps onto wood and cut them into small pieces. John Spilsbury, an engraver and mapmaker, is credited with inventing the first jigsaw puzzle in 1767. The dissected map has been a successful educational toy ever since. American children still learn geography by playing with puzzle maps of the United States or the world. The eighteenth-century inventors of jigsaw puzzles would be amazed to see the transformations of the last 250 years. Children's puzzles have moved from lessons to entertainment, showing diverse subjects like animals, nursery rhymes, and modern tales

Earth’s average surface temperature in 2024 was the warmest on record, according to an analysis led by NASA scientists.

Global temperatures in 2024 were 1.28 degrees Celsius (2.30 degrees Fahrenheit) above the agency’s 20th-century baseline (1951–1980), which tops the record set in 2023. The new record comes after 15 consecutive months (June 2023 through August 2024) of monthly temperature records—an unprecedented heat streak.

“Once again, the temperature record has been shattered—2024 was the hottest year since record keeping began in 1880,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “Between record-breaking temperatures and wildfires currently threatening our centers and workforce in California, it has never been more important to understand our changing

of super heroes. But the biggest surprise for the early puzzle makers would be how adults have embraced puzzling over the last century.

Puzzles for adults emerged around the 1900’s. and by 1908 a full-blown craze was in progress in the United States. Contemporary writers depicted the inexorable progression of the puzzle addict: from the skeptic who first ridiculed puzzles as silly and childish, to the perplexed puzzler who ignored meals while chanting just one more piece; to the bleary-eyed victor who finally put in the last piece in the wee hours of the morning. The puzzles of those days were quite a challenge. Most had pieces cut exactly on the color lines. There

were no transition pieces with two colors to signal, for example, that the brown area (roof) fit next to the blues (sky). A sneeze or a careless move could undo an evening's work because the pieces did not interlock. And, unlike children's puzzles, the adult puzzles had no guide picture on the box; if the title was vague or misleading, the true subject could remain a mystery until the last pieces were fitted into place.

The Economy of Jigsaw Puzzles: Because wood puzzles had to be cut one piece at a time, they were expensive. A 500-piece puzzle typically cost $5 in 1908, far beyond the means of the average worker who earned only $50 per month. High society, however, embraced the new amusement. Peak sales came on Saturday mornings when customers selected puzzles for their weekend house parties in Newport and other country retreats.

The next few years brought two significant innovations. First, Parker Brothers, the famous game manufacturer, introduced figure pieces into its Pastime brand puzzles. Figure pieces made puzzles a bit easier to assemble. But the fascination of pieces shaped like dogs, birds, and other recognizable objects more than offset the somewhat reduced challenge. Second, Pastimes and other brands moved to an interlocking style that reduced the risk of spilling or losing pieces. Pastime puzzles were so successful that Parker Brothers stopped making games and devoted its entire factory to puzzle production in 1909. Following this craze, puzzles continued as a regular adult diversion for the next two decades.

NASA scientists further estimate Earth in 2024 was about 1.47 degrees Celsius (2.65 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the 1850–1900 average. For more than half of 2024, average temperatures were more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above the baseline, and the annual average, with mathematical uncertainties, may have exceeded the level for the first time.

The map above depicts global temperature anomalies in 2024. It does not show absolute temperatures; instead, it shows how much warmer or cooler each region of Earth was compared to the average from 1951 to 1980. The bar chart below shows 2024 in context with temperature anomalies since 1880. The values represent surface temperatures averaged over the entire globe for the year.

With the onset of the Great Depression in 1929, puzzles for adults enjoyed a resurgence of popularity, peaking in early 1933 when sales reached an astounding 10 million per week. Puzzles seemed to touch a chord, offering an escape from the troubled times, as well as an opportunity to succeed in a modest way. Completing a jigsaw gave the puzzler a sense of accomplishment that was hard to come by when the unemployment rate was climbing above 25 percent. With incomes depleted, home amusements like puzzles replaced outside entertainment like restaurants and night clubs. Puzzles became more affordable too. Many of the unemployed architects, carpenters, and other skilled craftsmen began to cut jigsaw puzzles in home workshops and to sell or rent them locally. During the 1930s craze for puzzles, drugstores and circulating libraries added puzzle rentals to their offerings. They charged three to ten cents per day, depending on size. Mass Production and Advertising : Another important development was the introduction of die-cut cardboard puzzles for adults. Mass production and inexpensive cardboard allowed the manufacturers to cut prices substantially. There was a vogue for advertising puzzles in mid-1932. Retail stores offered free puzzles with the purchase of a toothbrush, a flashlight, or hundreds of other products. What better way to keep a brand name before the public than to have customers working for hours to assemble a picture of the product?

The autumn of 1932 brought a novel concept, the weekly jigsaw puzzle. The die-cut Jig of the Week retailed for 25 cents and appeared on the news stands every Wednesday. People rushed to buy them and to be the first among their friends to solve that week's puzzle. There were dozens of weekly series including Picture Puzzle Weekly, B-Witching Weekly, Jiggers Weekly, and (featuring popular films) Movie Cut-Ups. With the competition from the free advertising puzzles and the inexpensive weekly puzzles, the makers of hand-cut wood puzzles were hard-pressed to keep their customers. Yet the top quality brands like Parker Pastimes retained a loyal following throughout the Depression, despite their higher prices.

The Rolls Royce of Jigsaw Puzzles: Indeed the Depression led to the birth of Par Puzzles, long dubbed the Rolls Royce of jigsaw puzzles. Frank Ware and John Henriques, young men with no job prospects, cut their first puzzle at the dining room table in 1932. While other firms were cutting costs (and quality), Par steadily improved their puzzles, and marketed them

to affluent movie stars, industrialists and even royalty. Par specialized in customized puzzles, often cutting the owner's name or birth date as figure pieces. Ware and Henriques also perfected the irregular edge to frustrate traditional puzzlers who tried to start with the corners and edge pieces. They further teased their customers with misleading titles and par times that were unattainable for all but the fastest puzzlers. After World War Two, the wooden puzzle went into a decline. Rising wages pushed up costs substantially because wood puzzles took so much time to cut. And as prices rose, sales dropped. At the same time improvements in lithography and die-cutting made the cardboard puzzles more attractive, especially when Springbok introduced high quality reproductions of fine art on jigsaws. In 1965 hundreds of thousands of Americans struggled to assemble Jackson Pollock's Convergence, billed by Springbok as the world's most difficult jigsaw puzzle.

One by one, the surviving brands of wood puzzles disappeared. Parker Brothers discontinued its Pastime puzzles in 1958. By 1974, both Frank Ware of Par and Straus (another long-time manufacturer) had retired from the business. The English Victory puzzles, easily found in department stores in the 1950s and 1960s, almost completely vanished.

As the true addicts of wood puzzles began to suffer withdrawal symptoms, Steve Richardson and Dave Tibbetts saw an opportunity to fill the void. They founded Stave Puzzles, and within a few years had succeeded Par as the leader in wood puzzles. Indeed, Stave went several steps beyond Par, by commissioning original artwork that was specially designed to interact with the cutting patterns. Experimentation with pop-up figure pieces led to three-dimensional puzzles such as a free-standing carousel. Over the years Richardson invented many trick puzzles that fit together in several different wrong ways, but with only one correct solution. Stave emphasizes personalized puzzles and service, even remembering its customers' birthdays.

Stave's success with luxury puzzles convinced others that a market could be found, leading to a broader resurgence of hand-cut and custom puzzles. The last decade has brought many design innovations as new craftspeople have turned to jigsaw puzzles. There are even some wood puzzles cut by computer-controlled water jets or lasers. Puzzle aficionados of today can choose from a number of different styles of wood puzzles to suit their passions for perplexity. And quite a few are graduating from cardboard to wood puzzles, as they discover the satisfying heft of the wood pieces, the challenge of matching their wits against an individual puzzle cutter, and the thrill of watching a picture emerge from a plain box with no guide picture on the lid.

To keep your herbs fresh or up to one month, wash the ends, dry thoroughly, then pop in a jar with cold water and cover. They will stay fresh for about 2 weeks.

Add a bag on top and you've got yourself almost a month!

If red wine is spilled on a carpet, it can be cleaned with shaving cream, then sponged off with water. Club soda also works.

If your white socks are getting dingy, place them into a pot of water, add 2 pieces of lemon or a teaspoon of lemon juice and soak for about 10 minutes. Then wash as you normally would.

Soften hard sugar. - When a recipe calls for a tablespoon of brown sugar but you'd need a chisel to carve it out, a little heat

can help. Wrap the sugar in a piece of aluminum foil and toss it in a 350-degree oven for five minutes.

To peel thin skin fruits and vegetables easily, place in a bowl and cover with boiling water, let stand for one minute then peel with sharp paring knife.

Thank you to our GNA reader Heather for sharing her ‘Helpful Tip!’ I love receiving notes in the mail! Heather writes: For your ‘The New Helpful Housewife Column’, I would like to contribute the idea of reusing a plastic bottle that once contained dish soap once I finished the soap to be used I rinse out the bottle and fill it with tap water and keep the bottle handy near my plants it is a quick and tidy way to keep the plants watered I also filled the other empty bottles with Rosemary water and keep it in the bathroom for a quick way to rinse my clean hair. - thank you for all the effort you put into the newspaper, Heather Etches- Trout Creek.

Most lipstick contains fish scales.

Common Cobra venom is not on the list of top 10 venoms yet it is still 40 times more toxic than cyanide.

If you're planning a meal that would be complemented with Scalloped Potatoes and you realize you've run out of potatoes and/or time, there's nothing wrong with grabbing a box of Instant Scalloped Potatoes and mixing them up.

I'll be honest with you here. Instant Scalloped Potatoes are probably every bit as good as making Scalloped Potatoes from real potatoes. And if you hide the box, your guests will likely never know the difference.

But if you take pride in "making the real deal" and have a little extra time to prepare them, here's a recipe that's quick and easy to make. And it will save the day when you run out of Instant Scalloped Potatoes too.

Total Time: 1 ½ hr.

Servings: 4

Stuff you need: 4 medium potatoes 2 ½ tbsp flour 1 tsp salt 1 ½ cups of milk

1 ½ tbsp margarine

1 ½ medium onions, chopped

Do This:

Preheat oven to 375° F.

Peel potatoes, wash & slice thin.

Combine flour and salt in a small bowl or cup. Arrange ⅓ of the potatoes and ⅓ of the onions in a casserole dish.

Sprinkle with ⅓ of the flour/salt mix.

Repeat steps 3 & 4 two more times.

Boil milk and pour over the potatoes.

Dot with margarine.

Cover and bake for 45 minutes.

Uncover and bake for 15 to 30 minutes more until potatoes are tender.

If you’re looking for something good to go along with these Scalloped Potatoes why not try out my recipe for “Parmesan Baked Pork Chops” that I shared in the Feb15-2023 issue of the Great North Arrow (Issue 3 Volume 10). You HAVE been saving my recipes haven’t you?

If not, it’s not too late to start clipping my recipes out and saving them in your recipe box. Just be sure to read what’s on the other side of this page before you cut it out.

In the meantime, you can also find my recipe for “Parmesan Baked Pork Chops” (and many others) in the recipe section at DogOnARoot.com

If you have any questions or comments about this recipe, please email me at Recipes@DogOnARoot.com

Possums have one of the shortest pregnancies at 16 days. The shortest human pregnancy to produce a healthy baby was 22 weeks, 6 days — the baby was the length of a ballpoint pen.

The new year has commenced, many have mad resolutions, and for quite a high percentage, your resolutions are already broken.

Yes 2025 is here and my prediction is that it’s a good one for you. The weather is very cold -18 although it is going up for the weekend. On Saturday, as I check my blog for the last time, I hear Snowmobiles going back and forth on our road.

As I write this on early Wednesday morning, it feels like -21 Celsius. The lakes will be frozen soon, it they aren’t already, the Magnetawan with it’s rapid water flow, takes much longer, so please be careful around the water. And with a bit more snow, the snowmobilers will be in their

glory, for the first time in a few year.

ever had this year.

Speaking of cakes...If you just throw everything into the bowl, it doesn’t become a cake, one has to stir it up make the batter nice and smooth by mixing it all together just so. Only then when it is poured into a baking pan will it turn into a perfect cake. Ready to ice when it is cooled off. Have you seen JoAnne Kearsley’s cakes, my you are in for a treat. Every slice is perfect. The flavour is exquisite, the icing is light, and depending on the theme, she is an artist, flowers are easy for her, she is a bouquet expert! She is located in Whitestone, and she will make a perfect birthday cake, or anniversary …cupcakes you say? Chef JoAnne, can be found at the new restaurant in Dunchurch, the Rock N Duck, I don’t think Lissa would mind if you stopped by to have lunch and ask JoAnne if she would make a cake for you. There is one exception, ‘Dump Cake’. Now Dump Cake is good, but every piece of cake is different, not everyone’s piece is the same. So this is ok for a group of people who enjoy speaking about what they are eating. Have you had Dump Cake before? It is a cake mix usually white or yellow, put the mix into a 13x8 cake pan, a can of fruit some of the liquid removed, peaches, are good, or apple or cherry pie mix. Let it cool off, a dollop of whip cream makes this a delicious dessert. You can change it up by using a chocolate cake mix, and cherry pie filling makes a half decent Black Forest cake, all you need is whip cream to make it close to authentic.

THE QUIET AFTER IT ALL.-----------(988 new number)

The quiet of Christmas Day evening is often a let down for some. If you are young parents, the quiet after the children are in bed , and mom and dad are feeling let down. Also especially if you are older. You may have seen the grandchildren earlier in the

day, and being brought home after dinner… it is a sad quiet evening on Christmas day. The sadness of being alone and feeling lonesome, can be very disturbing for some. The sadness of the evening is too much to bear for some. They often cry a lot when Christmas rolls around.

I read on Facebook about a new phone number that people can call especially if they are feeling depressed and need someone to speak too, the phone number is 988. 988 is a new phone number that recently went live to help people get help in mental health crisis. This number is dedicated for anyone in need of suicide help, also for those who feel they are a burden to their family. The crisis is growing and this phone number 988 may be just what you need. You do not need to be shy about making a call to 988, may be just what you need to make your life a little better.

SUSAN BOYLE -------------------

I got up Saturday, (yesterday) morning around 9. Lorne put some music on, and Susan Boyle, Wild Horses, at first I just had goose bumps, then the tears came, and before I knew it I was holding back the sobs.

There was nothing wrong with me, the music moved me to tears. She sang that song so beautifully, it moved me to tears… and everything after that was amazing too…more waterworks. Do you ever have that happen?

The Work, the Dinner Cook all Day, 30 min. to Eat!

I'm planning for next year already!

I look back…when one had kids, the hustle and bustle of getting ready for Santa to arrive, the heavy-duty cooking. There is always a turkey to cook. I remember a few years ago, could hardly find a turkey, even a very small one. $50.00 for a small stuffed bird, you cook from frozen. I thought that was expensive for a bird.

I found a nice one this year for Christmas. In the Medium size bin at $22 at Walmart, it was a lovely bird, lots of meat on it, small bones. We had dinner, including a dinner I sent out to a sick friend. A few sandwiches, and soup. Not bad for 22 dollars. So, I think next year I am not going to cook a turkey. I am thinking of roast beef! Or a leg of lamb! I checked out the leg of lamb at Costco,

15.99 a kg. And they say they will deliver. I do not trust that for a minute, because of a recent floral delivery. Oh my, imagine

they send it by courier, and we cannot get to Duck Rock to pick it up on time. They should send it a week earlier. Just to be certain. Or that leg of lamb could be sitting on a shelf for 4 days no refrigeration, lol… no I am just reminiscing here. If during the year I can find a nice prime rib roast, at a reasonable price I will freeze it. Sobey’s or even Walmart has them on sale occasionally. If you see prime rib on sale, please send me a message. PLEASE!!! If you see Standing Rib Roast...message me too. It is the standing rib roast comes from the rib section of the cow. A standing rib roast they say is excellent. I will start saving now, by Christmas I will have saved that extra total of $250 for a prime rib, as my son always requested, we must have turnip with it. That is a deal! I agree, no turnip, no Christmas. lol Throughout the year Lorne and I will pick up small prime rib roast at Sobey’s averaging at about $25.00 to $30.00. They are excellent. We would get a couple of meals out of a roast. Nice with mashed potatoes, a delicious gravy…veggies, horseradish, oh that makes it even better. Just don’t put too much on, I would still do a turnip dish and maybe sprouts. Yorkshire Pudding would set it off good. We are Dutch we love turnip, Dutch style, a lovely white sauce with nutmeg sprinkled on it. I love it.

However, the Canadian way is impressive too. Butter, brown sugar, mixed with a mixer, to smooth it out. Baked in the oven with little white marshmallows on it. Oh, now that is a treat to say the least!!! Now which way do you like it? Or is turnip not on your hit parade?

Busy...It was for me sometimes when going back 40 or 50 years. You would have been busy for weeks, shopping, baking, wrapping, entertaining, visiting, partying, all before Christmas. The fact that all was quiet. Makes it too quiet for many people. If you have small children, they are now in bed, and the dishes are magically already done, the gifts organized, there is little to do, but lots to think about. And I would be pooped out!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM AND DAD

My mom and dad, Laura and Piet Spaans. Best parents a girl could have. Usually they had a birthday party.

My mom would often say, I think Dad and I will have a party for our birthdays. And off she would go to plan a party. Their birthdays were Jan. 5th and 10th and she would say, it is time to have a get together, because it is just too quiet. I hope your Birthday in Heaven was nice as usual, and that your friends who are now all in heaven with you. Your girlfriend Ria is now in heaven with you.I am sure that you have found each other.

Do not forget 40 or 50 years ago I was in my mid 20 to 30’s…that was party time for us. I just cannot believe I am that old! Then there’s a voice from the kitchen, “You are my dear!” We both chuckle.

MY RESOLUTION IS NO RESOLUTION!

So, we are approaching the middle of January, did you make any resolutions by chance? I didn't, I never do, I would only break them, and feel bad for not following through. So that is why I don't bother with resolutions. No let down. Or feeling guilty. Happy New Year!

All the Best, Catharina

Join Catharina on her website www. reflections101.com, and follow her weekly blogs and visit her archives. Join her on her journey as she shares her thoughts and experiences on things that affect us all. Get inspired and motivated to pursue your passions and live your best life.

In most watch advertisements the time displayed on a watch is 10:10.

Crossword #55

The most beautiful cake, fabulous taste, Made by Chef JoAnne Kearsley.

Burk’s Fall’s Cafe & Grill

Jim’s note: With the passing of President Carter I thought that I would reprint a story that we had in the paer back in 2022. How a future U.S. president helped avert nuclear disaster near Canada's capital Jimmy Carter was told work in Chalk River, Ont., meant he likely couldn't have kids. He has 4.

Malcolm Campbell · CBC News · Posted: Dec 22, 2021 4:00 AM EST | Last Updated: December 22, 2021

A sign from inside Atomic Energy Canada Ltd., located at Chalk River, Ont., from the 1950s. (CBC Archives)

Ben Weiss, co-ordinator of the society's Facebook page and speaker series, recently posted about the world's first nuclear reactor meltdown. And while Chornobyl, Fukushima and Three Mile Island often come to mind when nuclear incidents are

Schenectady, N.Y., at the time, was called upon to head north.

"We had the dubious distinction of having one of the first nuclear accidents. And the Americans, obviously, were very interested and … worried," Milnes said.

Carter led a team of men on the mission, which required the reactor to be shut down, taken apart and replaced. An exact replica of the reactor was built at a playground nearby, with Carter and his troops practising taking it apart and putting it back together as quickly as possible.

When it came time to work on the actual reactor, the men worked in shifts of 90 seconds — the high radioactivity made anything longer extremely dangerous.

"By today's standards, there's no way that would have happened," Milnes said.

"In [Carter's] case, at least, he was lowered into the building … with his wrench, and he had to run over to the reactor casing and he had one screw to turn. That was all the time he had. And then, boom, back up." reactor, the men worked in shifts of 90

brought up, this one happened less than 200 kilometres from the Canadian capital.

Even more interesting is catastrophe was averted, in part, with help from future U.S. president Jimmy Carter.

In December 1952, an experimental nuclear reactor in Chalk River, Ont., about 180 kilometres northwest of Ottawa, "experienced mechanical problems and operator error that led to overheating fuel rods and significant damage to the NRX reactor core," according to a Government of Canada page.

That page goes on to say it was the world's first nuclear reactor incident, but little else about what actually happened.

Using details from an article written by journalist and author Arthur Milnes, Weiss had posted about the Chalk River meltdown last Tuesday night.

"The next morning … I took a look. And all of a sudden, I realize this story has been on fire all night. I assumed people slept at night," he said. "But it was very extraordinary. And it resonated with people."

The historical society's posts generally garner views in the thousands, Weiss said, but this has been "by far" the most-viewed post he's ever put up at close to one million views — and that's just on Facebook. Milnes, who also published a book about Carter and his wife Rosalynn, said the former U.S. president takes a lot of pride in his involvement in the Chalk River event.

"It's not a topic that most American journalists or anything had much interest in.

So when President Carter found out that I wanted to talk about Chalk River, he was just really eager," Milnes said.

"He got to the point where I ran out of questions."

Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter, right, is seen inside the home of author and journalist Arthur Milnes in Kingston, Ont., during a past visit to Canada. (Submitted by Arthur Milnes)

What happened?

The partial meltdown at the facility brought explosions and it was flooded with hundreds of thousands of gallons of water, prompting the Canadian government to turn to its neighbour to the south for assistance.

Carter, a U.S. Navy lieutenant who was working on a nuclear submarine project in

seconds — the high radioactivity made anything longer extremely dangerous.

“By today’s standards, there’s no way that would have happened,” Milnes said.

“In [Carter’s] case, at least, he was lowered into the building … with his wrench, and he had to run over to the reactor casing and he had one screw to turn. That was all the time he had. And then, boom, back up.” Milnes said Carter remembered the after-effects of the experience decades later.

"He talks about [it] today. He had radioac-

tive urine for many weeks afterwards. They were tested continuously," he said. "He was told it was likely that he would never have children."

Carter has four children.

After the story was shared so widely, Weiss said people across Canada and North America were reaching out, commenting and following the historical society's Facebook page.

So why does he think it caught so many people's attention?

"Jimmy Carter was the president who saved the day when he was a younger man; it definitely, definitely resonated," Weiss said.

"So they practise everything. And then, as they were actually going in, risking their lives … they were also keeping track of what they were doing on the replica in the playground, as well.

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

Mr. Rogers was an ordained minister.

Life Styles

Green Acres is the Place to Be

The Dutch Harmony Ranch

Jim Shedden

Why Green Acres you ask?

Jackie Jeffrey spent a few years dressed in suits flying over Edmonton, Alberta doing the traffic reports for Global News. Then in a spur of the moment she traded in the suits and the glitz for Carhartt overalls and a pitchfork.

In July of 2016 the Jeffery’s purchased 2958 highway 520 from Allen and Janice Skinner. Jackie and her husband Jeremy had been looking for a while after moving back to Ontario from Alberta.

Both Jeremy and Jackie grew up on farms in Perth county. Jeremy on a beef and hog farm near Stratford and Jackie on a dairy farm near Listowel. They spent time working in different sectors, Jeremy in the oil and gas sector and Jackie in media. After they had the children they really wanted to go back to the life they remembered living on the farm as kids. Yes, hard work but also a lifestyle that is hard to match.

After selling their farm in Alberta they started looking for a farm close to family and realized that their budget needed them to extend the search further north. They Bought the Farm

The listing near Burks falls was a wild card but they felt that they had to check it out. It checked all the boxes. Jackie said “We started the store almost right away after getting egg laying chickens. Farm eggs for sale and the rest is history.”

The store took on a life of its own. Now they sell a full line up of livestock and pet feed as well as all sorts of farm raised goodies including our beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey and even pheasant.

Our customers are our friends, our children’s teachers, their bus drivers, owners of other businesses, our snow plow drivers, and our neighbors we are so blessed to have found this place and are so grateful to the support of this wonderful community.

Youth Bowling Events Strike a Chord in Parry Sound

Linda West-Parry Sound

The Rotary Club of West Parry Sound recently hosted two free youth bowling events at The Zone bowling alley, and both were a fantastic success! The first event, held on Saturday, December 28, welcomed about 17 local youth and their parents for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and friendly competition. The atmosphere was lively, with many kids

trying their hand at bowling for the first time.Thanks to the overwhelming enthusiasm from participants, the Rotary Club decided to organize a second event shortly afterward. This time, about 18 participants joined in, ranging in age from 3 years old to adults. Everyone had a blast, and Rick Cain, President of the

Rotary Club of West Parry Sound, even stepped in as an unofficial instructor for the youngest bowlers. "Four lanes with multiple families on all. It's not every day that you get an 8-year-old beating you, even without using the guardrails,"

said Rick with a chuckle. "Fun was had by all and I am sure that this is a repeatable afternoon that people of all ages can enjoy. It is always a joyous occasion when you can make people smile."

Both events were made even more enjoyable by the incredible owners of The Zone, Sean and Jamie. Their patience, helpfulness, and good humor created a welcoming and supportive environment for participants of all ages and experience levels. As newcomers to the Parry Sound community, The Zone has quickly become a popular venue, offering a modern and fun space for both casual and competitive bowlers alike. "They’ve brought a fresh energy to our town, and we’re grateful for their partnership," Rick remarked.

This successful initiative marks a promising start for the Rotary Club of West Parry Sound's continued focus on youth engagement. With more events planned for the future, the club is looking to foster community spirit and offer opportunities for children and families to connect in a fun and positive environment. The success of the bowling events also ties into the growing momentum of other community-focused initiatives.

The formation of a new Rotary Club in Parry Sound is gaining traction, with plans for more programs and projects that will benefit local youth and families. The Festive Feast event, which supports youth projects such as Drama Classes, Archery and Outdoor Learning events, is just one example of how the Rotary Club of West Parry Sound is expanding its reach in the community. These efforts are not only about providing immediate fun and support but also laying the groundwork for long-term connections that will help to keep Parry Sound's community strong and vibrant.

The Zone, which opened its doors in 2024, has quickly become a local hub of activity. With its lively atmosphere, state-of-the-art bowling lanes, and commitment to creating a fun and inclusive space for people of all ages, it’s no wonder that the events held there were such a success. For those who haven’t visited yet, Sean and Jamie are eager to welcome new visitors to the venue, ensuring that every experience is a memorable one.

In addition to the bowling events, the Rotary Club is excited to continue organizing community-based activities that bring joy and connection to the people of Parry Sound. Stay tuned for more fun events as the club looks forward to making 2025 even more exciting for youth, families, and the entire community.

To find out more about upcoming events and initiatives from the Rotary Club of West Parry Sound, or to get involved in making a positive impact

in your community, be sure to visit the club’s website and stay connected on social media. The future is bright, and there’s always room for more smiles! If you haven’t had the chance to experience the fun and excitement at The Zone yet, don’t miss out—take the whole family for an afternoon of friendly competition and good times. It’s one of Parry Sound’s newest treasures, and there’s sure to be an event that’s perfect for everyone.

For more information, follow the Rotary Club of West Parry Sound on their social media platforms, and be sure to check out The Zone’s offerings, which include not only bowling but also other exciting events and activities for all ages.

Authors, Characters, Fort Pulaski and the Parker Family

By Richard Dowson

Casimir Pulaski monument in Savannah, Georgia

Writers struggle to find names for their characters. Saskatchewan’s Brent Butt (Corner Gas), used community names. Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple is named after and English village.

Author Lee Child’s action character ‘Jack Reacher’, was named after the author’s personal experience. Lee is tall. At the grocery store other shoppers would ask him, “Can you reach that?” He was the ‘Reacher’ and this led to the character’s name, Jack Reacher.

Georgia born author Karin Slaughter created the ‘Will Trent’ detective series. In the TV Series Will Trent, Actor Erika Christensen plays detective Angie Polasky. People familiar with the City of Savannah, Georgia know ‘Polasky’ sound familiar. Like, Fort Pulaski and the Casimir Pulaski monument, both in Savannah. Although the spelling is different, it’s reasonable to assume the character ‘Angie Polasky’ is named after Casimir Pulaski. Authors often change the spelling for copy-

right reason.

Casimir Pulaski was a Polish Cavalry officer who joined Geroge Washington’s Revolutionary Army in July 1777. He had a stunning military career in Europe and America. He was a commander of the calvary when they attempted to chase the British out of Savannah. He was wounded by a musket ball, October 9, 1779 and died of his wounds on October 11, 1779. (I saw the musket ball at the Georgia Historical Society.)

Great! But what’s Pulaski and Savannah got to do with the Parker family of Burks Falls?

The Answer: Many early settlers in the Burks Falls, Magnetawan, McKellar District were descendants of United Empire Loyalists who fought on the side of the King in the American Revolutionary War. Two Parkers served in the King’s American Regiment.

David Parker and his brother fought with the King’s American Regiment and went with Lt. Col. Campbell from Charleston to Savannah, arriving there at the end of May, 1781. They served as garrison troops. They left Savannah on May 21, 1782 after losing a major battle.

And There is More – John Augustus Parker My ancestor, David Parker, died 1805, and is buried in the Anglican Church Yard at Niagara-on-the-Lake. After the 1812 troubles ‘died down’, David’s descendants moved north, settling at Campbell’s Cross, Chinguacousy Township (Peel), Ontario. It’s assumed ‘Campbell’s Cross’ was named the Lt. Col. Campbell family who operated a mill.

John A. Parker (Dave’s Grandson) moved north, working in the lumbering industry and farming, later settling in Burks Falls. ‘Connections” were made with the North and Montgomery families. Refreshing the “memories” was made possible by author Karin Slaughter and ‘Will Trent’.

Reference Loyalist Institute: A History of the King's American Regiment - Part 1 of 8 MJ Story Writers and Character Names 20250108 02 file

EVENTS BINGO AND EUCHRE

BURK’S FALLS

JANUARY 4TH – ARBF MONTHLY BINGO - Mark your calendars! DOORS OPEN AT 5:30pm - MINI GAMES START AT 6:30pmREGULAR 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 EMSDALE –,JANUARY 15TH - 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

JANUARY 29TH- BINGO!!! EMSDALE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY- EVERY WEDNESDAYOver 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 –

JANUARY 19TH- 2PM- Magnetawan

Friendship Club - Bingo Everyone 18+ Welcome - $10 for 3 cards – 10 games - 'Share the Wealth' - Snacks and pop for sale

JANUARY 19TH- Sunday-BINGO 2PM

JANUARY 19TH - 2PM- Magnetawan

Friendship Club - Bingo Everyone 18+ Welcome - $10 for 3 cards – 10 games - 'Share the Wealth' - Snacks and pop for sale. LAST BINGO OF 2024!

PARRY SOUND – MONDAY NIGHT BINGO AT 7PM- KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

PARRY SOUND - MONDAY NIGHT BINGO

7PM AT THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HALL – ITS BEST TO ARRIVE BEFORE 6PM TO GE A SEAT!

PORT LORING- BRANCH 415 ROYAL CA-

NADIAN LEGION -BINGO - EVERY TUESDAY

EVENING STARTS AT 7:30

SPRUCEDALE - 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! WINTER-

School Bus Fire in Huntsville - Driver’s Quick Actions Save the Day

HUNSTVILLE – GNA – Cyndi Culbert- The driver of a Campbell Bus Lines school bus in Huntsville is being praised for his quick thinking and calm demeanor during a potentially dangerous situation. While driving on Earls Road, the driver reported smelling a plastic odor reminiscent of birthday cake candles. Acting swiftly, he turned off the bus heaters, but the smell persisted and intensified as he continued down the hill. Recognizing the potential danger, the driver immediately pulled over and evacuated all students to a safe location. His decisive actions ensured the safety of everyone on board. "We cannot say enough about how fast the driver reacted and his ability to stay calm,"

The bus involved in the incident was an electric-powered school bus. Fortunately, the bus's batteries, which are encased in steel vaults, were not

FEST FEBRUARY 15TH- HOSTED BY THE ‘Sprucedale Seniors Friendship Club’. DABBER BINGO 3:30pm to 5:30 pm

EUCHRE

ARMOUR/KATRINELeisure Club has Bid Euchre every Tuesday afternoons from 1:30 - 4ish followed by a light snack

DUNCHURCH – LEGION BRANCH 394- ; Saturday 1 - 6 PM euchre. cost of cards is $5.00

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

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

MAGNETAWAN- SENIORS CLUB - JANUARY 3RD Friday - Euchre at 7 pm

MAGNETAWAN- SENIORS CLUB - JANUARY 17TH- Friday - Euchre at 7 pm

MAGNETAWAN -SENIORS CLUB -JANUARY 24th- Friday- Euchre at 7pm

MAGNETAWAN -SENIORS 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.

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

KEARNEY –LEGION - TUESDAY'S REGULAR

EUCHRE I0am - THURSDAY'S BID EUCHRE - New players always welcome!

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 events Mondays at 1 pm Ladies Euchre, men welcome; 7pm Dabber Bingo doors open at 6 pm.

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

The world's longest snake (by reliable documentation) is the reticulated python, with a maximum length of, perhaps, 30 feet.

Jimmy Carter was the first U.S. President to be born in a hospital.

There are 240 dots on an arcade Pac-Man game

The person who invented the door knock won the No-bell prize.

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

Burk’s RyersonFalls & 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 self-care, 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,

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 or SADLY, RESCUED TREASURES HAS CLOSED DUE TO END OF LEASE. IF YOU KNOW OF ANY OPTIONS FOR THEM TO CONTINUE, PLEASE CONTACT. allheartpetrescue@gmail.com

- Thank you All Heart, you do so much for the community. You will be missed.

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.

SOUTH RIVER WOMENS OWN RESOURCE CENTRE -105 OTTAWA AVENUE- 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! 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!

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

JANUARY 19TH 1-4PM-AT THE RIVERBOWL- ‘ DAY RAMBLE’ WITH THE SEAN COTTON TRIO WITH GUEST LEWIS HODGSON

FEBRUARY 1ST, 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 TEAARBF- MONTHLY BINGO BURK'S FALLS ARENA KARL CROZIER ROOM

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

FEBRUARY 4TH- Burk 's Falls Legion

- SENIOR'S LUNCHEON - Please call the Legion directly after 2pm to reserve before Jan. 3 -(705) 382-3137 Almaguin Adult Learning invites you to explore our programs! Happy New Year! Do you have a New Year's resolution? Finish up high school ? Upgrade your skills for a new career? We can help! We are open late every Tuesday until 7:00 PM in our South River location.

JANUARY 17th- making sense of multiplication! 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Burk’s Falls

JANUARY 20th- our centres will be closed at noon>

JANUARY 23rd- soft skills 1:00 PM to 3:00

PM

JANUARY 31st- food and finance 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

We always have computer training available call today! Sign up for our free programs, soft skills, food and finance making sense of multiplication and more! digital skills, high school prep, employment prep, college prep life skills.

Burk’s falls 705-499-7773 -108 Ontario St. Powassan 705-499-7217- 250 Clark St. South River 705-386-0764 - 324 highway 124 almaguinhighlandslearning.org

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'

OR BY PHONE AT 1-705-494-00

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! 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. ByLaw 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 ServicesFOR MORE INFO & TO ORDER - CONTACT CSS @ 705-724-6028

Almaguin Donation store is now taking donations Tuesday to Saturday 10am4pm. 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 Dropin... 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!

The Village of Burk’s Falls -NOW HAS EV chargers in the Village, with installation scheduled for completion by the end of November! This fantastic new development will make it easier than ever to power up your electric vehicles right here in our community.

By-Law Comments/Complaints - To file a comment or complaint with the Village By-Law department, please complete a comment/complaint form and submit it to the office. A written copy is essential for us to address and rectify any issues. Without it, we won't be able to take action. - By-Law Complaint Form

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: Ipm3pm (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 January 4th, February 1st, & March 1st -

ADULTS $3.50 CHILDREN $2.50 FAMILY (4+) $10.00

PARENTS AND TOTS - Tuesdays: 2pm-3pmThursdays: - 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@ 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 ArenaThursday, 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 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: 705-382-3327burksfallslibrary@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.

JANUARY 19TH - Friends of the Library Open House -2pm - 4pm

At the Young at Heart Seniors' Centre

The Friends of the Library is a dedicated, non-profit organization committed to promoting, enhancing, and expanding the programs, services, and resources of our library. By supporting the library’s initiatives, the Friends help extend its capacity through financial contributions, program support, and advocacy. Through their efforts, they celebrate the library’s mission, ensuring it can better serve the community and fulfill its role as a vital public resource.

JANUARY 22ND- Library Birthday Celebration

The library is a 129 years young! We first set up in a small space at the back of Mrs. Dan Wilson's Millinery Store above the former Fire Hall, and opened our doors on January 20th, 1896. Forty-five years ago, we relocated to our current location at 39 Copeland Street. The library has become a vibrant hub of bustling activity, and bursting at the seams with materials and resources as we continue to serve and connect with everyone in our lovely community!

JANUARY 26TH- Family Literacy Fun Day

- Enjoy a morning of stories, activities, games, songs, and a light lunch! Presented to you by the library and our wonderful community partners EarlyOn Child and Family Centres, District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board - DSSAB, and Friends of the Library Group!

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 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 MISBELIEFS-

A 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 READDoes 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 residents 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 TuesdayDoors Open at 6:30 pm Games start at 7 pm

FREE SNOOKER & SHUFFLEBOARD Every day

KATRINE WINTER CARNIVAL

FEBRUARY 21ST – 6:30PM - KATRINE WINTER KARNIVAL BOWLING - $12 [GIVES you ENTRY ALL WEEKEND) Call Marina Brandt Hammond to sign up 705.787.8780 AT THE RIVERBOWL

FEBRUARY 21ST - 9pm - 12am - DANCELIVE BAND Donation at Door (for weekend entry wristband) - PRIZES, SILENT AUCTION & ELIMINATION DRAW Location: Katrine Community Centre - 6 Browns Drive, Katrine FEB 22, 2025 - 11AM-12:30 PM- Donation at Door [for weekend entry wristband)

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 8-9TH , SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, KEARNEY DOG SLED RACE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Up to 20 Volunteer Hours Available! We Need Help With... • Parking

Attendants • Silent Auction & Merchandise

Sales • Directing Traffic • Dog Sled Rides - Get in touch with Sarah at info@gonetothedogsmushing.com

ATTENTION DOG SLED RACING FANS!

This weekend is the South River Dog Sled Races happening at the Almaguin Highlands Trails behind the high school. Come watch, cheer on your local racers and see what dog powered sports is all about!

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/

- OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES DIY Toboggan

Competition - Log Sawing & Nail Driving Competition - Outdoor Kids Games

FEBRUARY 22ND, -12pm - 6:30pm -IN-

DOOR EVENTS - KATRINE COMMUNITY

CENTRE

Live Music - Double D Performance (12pm.3:30pm) - Davey Mel oy [4:00pm7:00pm)

Silent Auction, Elimination Draw, Food Booth & Bar

FEBRUARY 22ND- 4:30pm - 6:30pm - HAM

DINNER - KATRINE COMMUNITY CENTRE

Adult $20 | Under 10 $10FEBRUARY 23RD -9am - 12:30pm - PANCAKE BREAKFAST ADULT $10 | UNDER IOYRS $5

11AM- 11:30AM - SILENT AUCTION ENDS , ELIMINATION DRAW BEGINS

FORK ON MAIN IN KEARNEY – IT’S DART

SEASON THURS SIGN UP 7-7:30PM - GAME STARTS AT 7:30. COME OUT AND ENJOY THE FUN!

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 CentreWednesdays 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.caPhone: 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

JANUARY 18TH- 2PM-4:30PM – OUR FAMOUS MEAT DRAW! 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!!!! 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 would like to give a warm welcome

WENDY'S KITCHEN to the Legion Dec 5, 2024 -Hours of operation will be Thursday 4pm-9pm - Friday 4pm- 9pmSat 9am till ? -Sunday 9am-2pm - Specials will be Thursday $1 Wings , Friday Fish and Chips EUCHRE EVERY TUESDAY 10am-NoonEveryone 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 I0amTHURSDAY'S BID EUCHRE - New players always welcome!

Loring & DistrictRestoule

PORT LORING ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONLEGION BRANCH 415 JANUARY 2025 ACTIVITIES

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!)

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.

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.

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 BINGO TOO! - Come explore the only historically designated building in the area and check out our internet café! Gift shop with local artisan goods. Try our (almost world famous) milkshakes and new indigenous and genealogy exhibits! - HWY 522 -4077 & 4009. COMMANDA FREE ENTRY

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 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 ! NEEDEDCONTACT 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 CentreTuesdays 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, 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!

LATE AD IN TO BURK’S FALLS

FEBRUARY 14TH- 12 PM-2PMYOU'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!

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.

On behalf of Council and Staff MERRY CHRISTMAS AND BEST WISHES FOR A SAFE AND JOYOUS HOLIDAY SEASON -JUST A REMINDER The Municipal Office will be CLOSED from Tuesday December 24, 2024 at Noo. Re-opening Monday January 6, 2025 Both Municipal Landfills will be CLOSED Tuesday December 24, 2024 at 12 noon, Wednesday December 25, 2024 , Thursday December 26, 2024 as well as Wednesday January 1, 2025

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 January 13th from 10am until 3pm! #magswhereitsat #magnetawan 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 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!

-JANUARY 19TH - 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

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!

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 FRIENDSHIP CLUB

JANUARY 15TH- 9:30AM -CREATIVE CRAFTERS

JANUARY 15TH- MONTHLY MEMBERS

MEETING 1PM

JANUARY 17TH- Friday - Euchre at 7 pm

JANUARY 19TH- Sunday-BINGO 2PM

JANUARY 20th- Monday -friendship Monday 1 pm

JANUARY22nd – Wednesday – Creative

Crafters at 9:30am

JANUARY24th- Friday- Euchre at 7pm

JANUARY 28TH- Tuesday- Wheels to Meals at noon

JANUARY 29TH- Wednesday - Creative

Crafters at 9:30 am

JANUARY 31ST - 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 - TUESDAYS10:00 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 + COMING LION’S EVENTS (watch on Facebook or Municipal web page to confirm dates) Wild Game Dinner ( Feb/25) – Pending confirmation by December. Shrove Tuesday – 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

MAGNETAWAN PUBLIC LIBRARY – Join in on the Snowman Scavenger Hunt! Oh no! Frosty needs help from the children in Magnetawan! Help him find all his snowman pieces, hidden all over the library! Come to the library anytime, from January 14- the end of February to help frosty find his pieces and become whole!

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) 3873947 or by email at recreation@magnetawan.comFUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO - Municipality Of Magnetawan

and educates the community about its cultural legacy. Meets: 1st Wednesday of the month at 2:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 13TH – 7PM- 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.

JANUARY 16TH- 7PM - McKellar Agricultural Society’s MEETING AT THE COMMUNITY CENTRE.

JANUARY 17TH- 6PM -HURDVILLE COMMUNITY CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY, POTLUCK AND $15 GIFT EXCHANGE AND MANY ROUNDS OF EUCHRE

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

JANUARY 22ND, Wednesday Pickleball will resumes.

JANUARY 28TH-COOKING WITH JIMMY - SPACES ARE LIMITED. BE SURE TO REGISTER BY PHONE OR EMAIL - WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Cooking skills & techniques - Nutrition on a budget - Variety of uses for this week's flyer specials. - AND IT WILL BE FUN! Contact us: 705 389-2611 email mckellarlib@vianet.ca

JANUARY 28TH- 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.

JANUARY 21ST - KNITTING CLUB - 1st and 3rd Tuesday of Every Month at 1:00 pm

JANUARY 28TH- 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!

JANUARY 28TH- 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!

WHITESTONE- AD IN

Get Involved in Your Community! The Township of McKellar is now accepting applications for Township Boards and Committees Be a vital part Of McKellar's future by sharing your voice, ideas, and expertise! Deadline: Applications accepted until January 31, 2025. Please email this application form to or drop off at the Township Office. Appointments and re-appointments will be made at the Regular Meeting of Council on February 4TH,2025. Meeting Location: Council Chambers, 701 Highway 124, McKellar. Virtual meetings via Zoom available for some committees.

JANUARY 27TH- 10AM-Public 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.

JANUARY 30TH- 3:30PM-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.

FEBRUARY 5TH- 2PM- Historical Committee Preserves McKellar's history

Feeling cooped up this winter? Visit the Whitestone Public Library for everything you need to stay busy, cozy, and connected! Borrow the latest bestselling books and movies, try out a new puzzle or board game, or take some snowshoes or ice fishing equipment out for a spin. View our programming calendar: https:// tinyurl.com/whitestoneprograms JANUARY 21ST-FEBRUARY 4TH - YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, Parry Sound Office is offering transportation to and from their offices for the Introduction to Computers Course, Jan. 21 to Feb 4. This opportunity is available to 4 pre-registered participants in the Whitestone Community. Please refer to poster for registration contact. PICK UP LOCATION: Whitestone Public Library and Technology Centre 9:00 A.M. by Parry Sound Taxi Services PLEASE NOTE, PARTICIPANTS MUST BE PROMPT OR RISK BEING LEFT BEHIND. Intro to Computers - Learn only what you want and need. - You will use workbooks and online resources to learn the fundamentals from topics such as: Computer Basics, Internet Email, Microsoft Office. and more, All with the guidance Of an instructor to point you in the right direction and support to get the computer doing what you want it to do' Learn in person at the YMCA in Parry Sound, ON Tuesdays & Wednesdays from January 21st - February 12th 10:00am - 12:00pm (705) 746-8480 parrysound. erc@sm.ymca.ca

Parry Sound

THE PARRY SOUND POOL SAGA

PARRY SOUND: John Doe- Recent decisions by the Pool Board, formed under an agreement signed by McKellar and 5 other municipalities in 2021, indicate that it may soon be possible for McKellar to get back its $740K capital contribution (unwisely sent in full in mid-2022 well ahead of any need for it). The Board has apparently arranged a loan of $13.5MM to bridge a funding gap. Since the Board owns no assets (the land and the facility are effectively owned by Parry Sound--incredible but true) and has no funding available for repayment, the municipalities have had to provide guarantees of that loan. So, when the loan goes into default (likely towards the end of this year or early in 2026), any repayment of the loan by the municipalities, as required under the guarantees, will trigger a revision of the entire agreement. The Project is not the same as what was proposed to McKellar and the others in 2021, and therefore McKellar would be fully justified in taking such action. The project that they all thought they were funding was a $32MM, 49K square foot, four lane recreational pool that would require the municipalities to subsidize a $300K a year operating deficit. The new project is for a $43MM-50MM, 43K square foot, six lane competition pool, requiring an annual subsidy of at least $3MM a year. Not even close to what was proposed. McKellar wisely exited the project in 2023 and did so legally because the agreement was nullified as soon as the Board increased the size of the pool to six lanes and acknowledged that it would exceed the key term of the agreement stipulating that the cost shall not exceed $32MM (the Board's own updated cost now is about $37MM and is still understated). While McKellar likely could have requested a return of its funds as soon as that happened in Nov 2022, its legal position will be completely solid when the Board itself reopens the agreement. McKellar, and all of the other outlying municipalities, were taken for a ride and those responsible (Parry Sound, Seguin, McDougall, and Carling) should pay the price. The behaviour of those responsible should not be condoned or rewarded by allowing them to keep the hard-earned money of McKellar's ratepayers. This may help to send the message that the project should be stopped now. Even after paying out compensation for contracts already signed, the whole area would stand to save at least $50MM over the next ten years because the annual level of operating support will be at least $3MM a year and the project requires about $34MM to complete. Just think of what else could be done to benefit many more people and businesses in the area for even half that amount. To put that into perspective the West Parry Sound municipalities contribute about $6MM a year to the District Social Services Board. The Pool is consuming so much municipal capital to build and will require such a large annual subsidy that most other more worthwhile investments cannot be supported going forward. It's not too late to save a lot of money by stopping now. $50MM in savings is a big number. Editor’s Note: GNA respects writers’ privacy and will print articles from John/Jane Doe as long as we can verify a confirmed source of authenticity, and we consider the articles credible and of importance. We believe in you having your say and freedom of the press and encourage you to voice your thoughts and opinions.

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 150Ticket(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!

ORR’S MEATS AND DELI IS CLOSING on January 18th, for our annual Winter break. Now is the time to put in an order to stock up while we are closed, call the store or stop by and we will be happy to help. Grateful for our amazing staff who deserve this break, and our wonderful customers who make everything possible. We appreciate you all. See you in the Spring.

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

JANUARY 18th - 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.

JANUARY 18TH- 1pm- 4:30pm- $40

PER PERSON - Introduction to Wildlife

Tracking for adults and youth. Join Diana Clements on the land to discover the tracks and signs of local wildlife. Meet at the Canadore College Parking lot and we will car pool from there! Parry Sound Forest School.

JANUARY 19TH- 10AM-12PM - Storytell-

ing Snowshoe FREE – GEORGIAN BAY BIO-

SPHERE EVENT- Celebrate the Anishinaabek storytelling season on a guided snowshoe hike. Enjoy the snow, drink some hot chocolate, and look for signs of wildlife!

This event is FREE and fun for the family! Recommended for children 6+

Meeting at the Burrow at Georgian Nordic Outdoor Activity Centre. Dress for the weather and wear snow pants, a hat, mitts, a jacket, and a scarf. Wear appropriate footwear and bring a filled water bottle. Free snowshoe rentals will be provided! We will be snowshoeing on groomed trails, but please be advised that we may go over hills, inclines, and uneven surfaces. Don’t forget to bring your mugs for some hot chocolate!

Event Location: Georgian Nordic Outdoor Activity Centre, 4 Nine Mile Lake Road, Parry Sound

JANUARY 21ST- 1:00pm-4:00pm -DUPLI-

CATE BRIDGE $6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street

JANUARY 28TH- 1:00pm-4:00pm – DUPLI-

CATE BRIDGE $6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street

JANUARY 21ST AT 10AM- EVOLVE FIT-

NESS IN PARRY SOUND - DUMBBELLS & DIAPERS - 6 Week Program beginning January 21st - $150 includes HST- Evolve Fitness - 4 Miller Street

JANUARY 25th – 11am-2pm - NewIndoor vendors market, a wide assortment of products and services available to the community - this event will be every third Saturday of each month at the Parry Sound Seniors Club - 705-746-7186 - 80 James St.

FEBRUARY 4TH- 1:00pm-4:00pm – DU-

PLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street

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 – 11am-2pm- A New Event at the Parry Sound Seniors Club!our first active games event which will be every second Saturday of each month, the activities will include rotation of golf putting, corn hole, darts and knock the block. Parry Sound Seniors Club - 705-746-7186

- 80 James St.

FEBRUARY 18TH-, 1:00pm-4:00pm – DU-

PLICATE BRIDGE -$6- Bobby Orr Community Centre - 7 Mary Street

FEBRUARY 20TH- Festival of the Sound

Connoisseur Club Russell Braun & Carolyn Maule - 7:00pm-8:30pm - Festival Station Office - 1 Avenue Road 705 746 2410 or 1 866 364 0061 - C$240.00

—The Connoisseur Club concert series passes are $240 plus tax

FEBRUARY 20th- 7PM- 4th - Festival of the Sound Connoisseur Club - Live performance Russell Braun & Carolyn MauleConnoisseur 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 sum-

mer 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, 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 StreetSHAWANAGA 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 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 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! Now through the 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. 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! PICK UP YOU COPY OF THE GNA AT PERRY MART! Why not stop in and see everything new in store! One stop shopping! ,JANUARY 22ND, JANUARY 29TH - BINGO!!! EMSDALE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETYEVERY WEDNESDAY - Over 40 years of funA little bingo with BIG prizes. DOORS OPEN AT 530PM - GAMES STARTS AT 6:45 PMNO 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. 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)

Perry Township

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 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

Jamaica has the most churches per square mile than any other country in the world.

Powassan

NEW BUSINESS IN TOWN

POWASSAN/TROUT CREEK: Deborah

Bussey- What’s better than young entrepreneurs? Parents, who support their children’s dreams and build a strong work ethic by encouraging them through a business geared to help others!

I came across a post on our community page, Trout Creek Happenings, that was advertising the services of a dad and his daughters. A family owned and operated business in Powassan, Ontario. They were offering snow removal services in the area. So, I reached out to inquire if they were exclusive to Powassan. I also wanted to get a bit more background on them.

Chris Chatelain, the mom, responded with details and refreshing humour describing herself as the paper pusher and social coordinator while Dave Parker, the dad, was the muscle. LOL They are a blended family that moved from Hamilton to Powassan almost 4 years ago.

They have three beautiful daughters, Sam (17), Shayne (15) and little Rhea (2). Rhea is more of a supervisor at the moment.

As a family, they put a great deal of thought into starting their own business last winter after hearing about a need in the community for snow removal services. They prayed as a family about it and the message was received that they should go forward with their plans!

The business is geared towards those who don't have a driveway big enough for a large plow, those with mobility issues and need walkways or ramps cleared, or those who are elderly and just don’t want to do it anymore.

They are servicing the Powassan and Trout Creek area this winter. Snow shoveling and small plow on an ATV services available. If you are in need of their services or know someone who could use their help contact Dave and Daughters on their Facebook page, call Chris at: (289) 788-5256 or Dave at: (647) 393-3641. Welcome Dave and Daughters. Wishing you a successful season

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 705-7245464 to order.

PICKLEBALL! AT 250 CLARK! Three Monday sessions -9AM, 10AM, 11AM. Sign up at recreation@powassan.net

JANUARY 19TH – 10AM-250 CLARKHOMEMADE PASTA WORKSHOP 250 ClarkSunday January 19 10am $45. . Learn the simple secrets of making homemade pasta! Leave with one pound of delicious pasta Text to register 705-495-9865

TUESDAY EVENTS AT 250 CLARK – 9AM LINE DANCING – 10AM UKELE CLUB, 11AM SENIORS FITNESS- 1PM ART CLASS- 4:30PM LASER TAG- 6PM ROBOTICS CLUB- 9amLine Dancing – 7PM BOOT CAMP

WEDNESDAYS EVENTS AT 250 CLARK – 1PM YOGA- 1PM SENIORS CARDS- 4PM- KARATE- 5PM-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- 4:30pm- LASER TAG- 6pm- ROBOTICS CLUB- 7PM- POWER CLASS. Almaguin Adult Learning invites you to explore our programs! Happy New Year! Do you have a New Year's resolution? Finish up high school ? Upgrade your skills for a new career? We can help! We are open late every Tuesday until 7:00 PM in our South River location.

JANUARY 17th- making sense of multiplication! 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Burk’s Falls

JANUARY 20th- our centres will be closed at noon>

JANUARY 23rd- soft skills 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM JANUARY 31st- food and finance 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM We always have computer training available call today! Sign up for our free programs, soft skills, food and finance making sense of multiplication and more! digital

skills, high school prep, employment prep, college prep life skills.

Burk’s falls 705-499-7773 -108 Ontario St. Powassan 705-499-7217- 250 Clark St. South River 705-386-0764 - 324 highway 124 almaguinhighlandslearning.org . 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 Dropin... 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 one-hour 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 705-724-6028 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 Fit- the 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

Library Hours: Monday · 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tuesday · 10:00 am - 6:00 pm,Wednesday · 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Thursday · 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, Friday · 10:00 am - 5:00 pm· Closed Saturdays & Sundays · POWASSAN AND DISTRICT UNION

LIBRARY

Wow! What happened to 2024? Ready or not, we’re diving into 2025 with gusto! We’re so excited to be starting another year of great programming here at the library! Lunch and Learn returns, as does our Senior’s Cafe, Raising Readers, French and so many more! Plus, we’re going to be hosting a VR and Gaming Drop-In for teens and tweens starting in January! Our baby trout are back too, so be sure to schedule a fun and educational tour of our little fish hatchery. Our little guys are also available for adoption, help support your library, call us for details! Be sure to make us one of your resolutions: I will visit the library at least once a month, if not more! Happy New Year everyone!

Library Hours: -Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 10am -6pm- Thursday,8am -7pm –Friday-10 am - 5:00 pm. We are Open Last Saturday Monthly-From 10:00 am to 2:00 pm- · Closed all other weekends. · Newsworthy: We are excited to announce that our volunteer of the year for 2024 was Jodi Roadknight-Amer. Jodi spear heads the wildly successful Free Kids’ Holiday Shop-

ping every December as well as supporting many of our other children’s and teen’s programs. Jodi, congratulations, it is a delight and an honour to work with you!

Boy oh boy, what a month December was! Thank you to all of our patrons who came out to celebrate the holiday season with us, your attendance at our events makes us determined to keep offering exceptional programming and service. Thank you also to all of our special holiday guests, Santa, the Voodoos, Mary Stokes, our Open House musicians and to all of the volunteers who helped during this busy season. We couldn’t do it without you!

January is shaping up to be a very exciting month too! Marty resumes his lunch and learn sessions on January 8th with a presentation by Gerry and Pat Giesler on the history of Giesler Boats. Lindsay has a great line up of library cafe topics in the running too, January’s topic: reading online, sign up for Libby and enjoy all it has to offer.

We’re also planning a teen and tween VR and gaming drop-in event with the Voodoos and we’re looking forward to presenting our 2025 budgets to the municipalities of Nipissing, Chisholm and Powassan. These meetings are open to the public, we encourage everyone to attend in support of our library, in Nipissing and Powassan on January 7th and in Chisholm on January 14th

JANUARY 20TH- 3PM-8PM- Teen VR & Gaming - Drop-In with the Voodoos - Teens and tweens, join us this January for the first of three VR and gaming night with the Powassan Voodoos! Come test your gaming skills against the Voodoos, snacks and drinks provided!

JANUARY 29TH -11:30 am- Join our tech expert to learn more about online reading! Get set up on Libby so you have access to the latest books, magazines, and newspapers from your tablet or phone free of charge. Julia Breckenridge - January 2024 - We are pleased to inform everyone that we’ve extended Julia Breckenridge’s stay in our gallery until the end of February! Be sure to have a look at her unique and impressive collection of photographs, you won’t be disappointed. Last December our gallery curator Breya Market-Matthews launched an annual Holiday Art Collective. This year, our special collection of Winter Scenes is on display on the main floor of the library for the months of January and February, you won’t want to miss viewing this impressive collection of paintings by local artists.

Our Regular Events: Checkout our Events Calendar for a schedule of all of our programming.

FOR ADULTS:

Book Club - Tuesday January 28th at 5:30A banned or challenged book! Scrabble - Mondays at 3:45 pm

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 - 3rd Monday Monthly at 6:00 pmMotivational Writing Group - Wednesdays biweekly at 1:00 pm starting Jan. 8thTunes with Paul The Straw Hat Man - 3rd Wednesday Monthly at 10:30 am

Powassan Purls Knitters - Fridays at 10:00 am Rug Hookers - Thursday January 9th at 1:00 pm For Teens & Tweens

Teen Computers/Hangout - Weekdays from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm FOR THE KIDS:

Music with Bernie - January 8th at 10:30 am Kids' Computer Hour - Weekdays 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

LaLeche League Meet-Up - 3rd Tuesday Monthly at 11:00 am Tales & Tunes with Paul The Straw Hat Man - 3rd Wednesday Monthly at 10:30 am

Raising Readers - Thursdays at 6:15 pm

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

SERVICES:

Library Services: Room Rentals:We have room rentals available at very reasonable rates. If you need a meeting room or a Certified Kitchen or even a space for your kid's birthday party, we've got you covered! Click here for Rental Info.

Tech Help:Tech appointments are available on a weekly basis — appointment required. Please call the library at 705-7243618 or send us an email at powlib@gmail. com to book your half hour appointment. Life Labs Bloodwork: Mondays and Thursdays - 8:00 am to 10:45 am. Remember to bring your health card and requisition. Questions and concerns can be directed to Life Labs at 1-877-849-3637.

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!

The Olympic flag's colors are always red, black, blue, green and yellow rings on a field of white. This is because at least one of those colors appears on the flag of every nation on the planet.

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 weekour 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 :)

JANUARY 18TH/19TH- 2ND ANNUAL SOUTH RIVER DOG SLED RACES – 60 TEAMS REGISTERED WITH INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIORS ON THE ALMAGUIN COMMUNITY TRAILS AT ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS SECONDARY SCHOOL. THE SCHOOL WILL BE OPEN FOR WARMING AND FOOD.

Almaguin Adult Learning invites you to explore our programs! Happy New Year! Do you have a New Year's resolution? Finish up high school ? Upgrade your skills for a new career? We can help! We are open late every Tuesday until 7:00 PM in our South River location.

JANUARY 17th- making sense of multiplication! 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Burk’s Falls JANUARY 20th- our centres will be closed at noon>

JANUARY 23rd- soft skills 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

JANUARY 31st- food and finance 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM We always have computer training available call today! Sign up for our free programs, soft skills, food and finance making sense of multiplication and more! digital skills, high school prep, employment prep, college prep life skills. Burk’s falls 705-499-7773 -108 Ontario St. Powassan 705-499-7217- 250 Clark St. South River 705-386-0764 - 324 highway 124 almaguinhighlandslearning.org

FEBRUARY 22ND, STARTING AT 5PM -SPAGHETTI DINNER- ITALIAN SPAGHETTI SERVED WITH A VARIETY OF SAUCESCOLESLAW, 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

Left to right; Dave Parker, seated Rhea Parker, Shayne Duquette, standing behind ATV Sam Duquette and Chris Chatelain.

South River

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 ServicesFOR 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 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 PEG-

GY 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 WHENEVERDANCES OR EVENTS AS BOOKED

. Alcoholics Anonymous group meetings in our basement every Monday at 7:30. Please spread the word.

Anatidaephobia is the pervasive, irrational fear that, somewhere in the world, a duck is watching you.

Sprucedale

What is Happening in 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 705724-6028/1-888-521-0000 to reserve your spot. $10.00/person.

Sprucedale Senior’s Friendship Club events. It is worth the drive to Sprucedale!!! Monday 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. Come and join our players for a fun time of Bingo and Euchre. Outdoor Rink is up and running. Remember Rink Operations is weather dependant. Sprucedale Faith Chapel, 63 Henry Street, Sprucedale.

Sunday services at 10:30 am. Ladies Bible Study, every Tuesday 10:00 am. General Bible Study weekly on Thursday’s at 7:00 pm. For more information email Pastor Dallas; sprucedalefaithchapel@gmail.com

Sprucedale United Church, 2415 ON-518, Sprucedale , Service Sunday 9:30 am. Thursday Dominoes at 1:30 pm

FEBRUARY 15th, 2025 WINTERFEST

SPRUCEDALE LAWN MOWER RACES - WINTER 2025 have been CANCELLED, due to poor turn out for registration.

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

Another addition to the Winterfest, will be two events sponsored by the Sprucedale Seniors Friendship Club. DABBER BINGO 3:30pm to 5:30 + pm. & PENNY SALE 9 am to 1 pm.

More information will be posted as we find out all the exciting events happening. Thank you to everyone who keeps letting us know of the events happening in our community, we try our best to submitted the events on time.

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 Holding a community event or celebrating a special occasion in Sprucedale, please contact me by email or phone at 705-6857938, cell: 705-571-4797 and leave the details of the event and a contact number. Photos are also accepted. Lynda Howse is a columnist with the Great North Arrow News. She can be reached at lyndahowse@xplornet.com

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 LAWN MOWER RACES _ WINTER 2025

Wow!! What a great addition to the Annual Winter Carnival!!

Updated rules will be in the comment section, full winter gear, steel toe boots, gloves and a full face helmet will be necessary for riding.

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, 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.

Coca-Cola contained Coca (whose active ingredient is cocaine) from 1885 to 1903.

JANUARY 17TH- 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/f78ebe61-8640-46cfa8d5-8f409a81dd23

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

JANUARY 18TH- ALMAGUIN DOGSLED RACES - Join us this Saturday January 18th at the Almaguin Community Trails for the 2nd Annual World Cup Qualifying Dog Sled Races! Stop by the Forgotten Trails booth for our fundraising Outdoor Gear Trade! If anyone has some quality new or used gear for adventure they would like to donate for sale/silent auction, please email us at forgottentrails@gmail.com and/or you may also bring donations to our booth at 9:15 am which will be set-up at the Almaguin Highlands Secondary School in the front hallway. Thank you everyone for continuing support for our trails and community :)

JANUARY 22ND- 1:30-3:30PM - Join us at Sips for an afternoon of working on your hand stitched project! Bring a friend or join us solo to meet other like-minded stitch lovers! Bring your own project and materials. Types of projects can include:knitting - crocheting - embroidery *please no sewing machines as we do not have the space or capability to run them* See you there

JANUARY 29TH- WEDNESDAY AT NOON. SENIORS LUNCH AT THE LEGIONRCL BRANCH #467 - MEATLOAF - $10 PER

PERSON. CALL THE CSS OFFICE AT 705-7246028 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT!

JANUARY 31ST - FEBRUARY 1ST - 8TH

ANNUAL COPPERHEAD TOURNAMENT

SUNDRIDGE ARENA & BURKS FALLS ARENA

$825 PER TEAM - MENS DIVISION + WOMENS DIVISION

3-GAME GUARANTEE I CASH BAR & DANCE

REGISTER NOW ! CONTACT DAVID FORDE AT SPARTANS@GMAIL.COM' OR BY PHONE AT 1-705-494-00

FEBRUARY 14TH- Valentines Dance AT THE SUNDRIDGE LEGION! LIVE BAND WITH TOBIN SPRING.

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 & DancingSJ 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+842087 . ONLY 120 Tickets will be sold. Semi Formal Dress Attire - Over S5000 in prizes to be WON! Grand Prize of $2000 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 ServicesFOR 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

JANUARY 29TH- WEDNESDAY AT NOON. SENIORS LUNCH AT THE LEGIONRCL 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.

Whitestone

ARDBEG

LOGGERS STATION Is OPEN! at this time we would like to announce a new addition to our kitchen staff

PATRICIA VODOVEC

XERRI,,she is known throughout Dunchurch, Magnetawan, Whitestone and I'm sure other areas for her great cooking skills and greatly appreciated volunteering with meals throughout the neighborhood, looking forward to serving and satisfying the community as we strive to build a great staff from bottom to top, please continue to call in fish orders on Friday to reserve your HALIBUT, 705 389 1966

JANUARY 18TH- 5PM-7PM -ARDBEG

COMMUNITY CLUB SPAGHETTI Dinner - $10

PER PERSON -SPAGHETTI - GARLIC BREAD -

DESSERT - COFFEE AND TEA DUNCHURCH

JANUARY 19TH- Annual General Meeting for the Dunchurch Agricultural Society is on Sunday January 19th at 5 pm at the Dunchurch United Church multipurpose room. Board members, members, volunteers and community members, all are welcome. We're looking forward to planning another great fair this year

JANUARY 30TH- 5PM-7PM- Whitestone Recreation presents ‘Create and Connect Craft Night’ at the Whitestone Public Library. Get your creative juices flowing and connect with other makers in the community! Contact Deborah for more information. No registration required. Are you looking to be more involved in the community? Stay for the Recreation Committee meeting starting at 7:00 PM!

The Rock n Duck Resto is open for business 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: 705-7732091 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 CentreContact: Contact: Terry Finch 519-362-6169 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

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

JANUARY 23rd- 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! January 23rd- 1PM-3PM- Knitting Circle is a drop-in social program. No actual experience knitting or crocheting required. Everyone welcome!

JANUARY 25TH - 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.

JANUARY 25TH - 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.

JANUARY 30TH- 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 Whites-

tone Rec Committee. All families welcome!

JANUARY 30TH - 1PM-3PM- Knitting Circle is a drop-in social program. No actual experience knitting or crocheting required. Everyone welcome!

JANUARY 31ST- 6PM-9PM- Family Game Night- Drop-in program- Offered by the Whitestone Public Library and Whitestone Recreation Committee.

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.

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.

JANUARY 19TH- 11AM- Snowshoe Foraging Adventure – This Sunday in Whitestone! Did you know winter is one of the best times to find medicinal mushrooms? Join us this Sunday, January 19th, for a snowshoe foraging workshop led by foraging expert Kathy and Dr. Kate Morrison, ND. Discover immune-boosting mushrooms like turkey tail and chaga! Learn how to harvest them, explore their many uses, and prepare them during this hands-on workshop—all while taking in the serene beauty of the winter woods. Don’t have snowshoes? No problem! We have a couple of extra pair available on a first-come, first-served basis. Time: 11 AM- Cost: $42 Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!

To maximize ice fishing safety when enjoying winter fishing outing, it is important to know a few things about ice. New ice is usually stronger than old ice. Four inches of clear, newly formed ice may support one person on foot, while a foot or more of old, partially thawed ice may not. Ice seldom freezes uniformly. It may be a foot thick in one location and only an inch or two just a few feet away. Ice formed over flowing water and currents is often dangerous. This is especially true near streams, bridges and culverts. Also, the ice outside river bends is usually weaker due to the undermining effects of the faster current. ‼️ Guidelines are for new, clear solid ice. Double the thickness guidelines when traveling on white ice to ensure ice safety. Learn more about ice fishing safety before heading out: https://www.takemefishing.org/ice-fishing/ice-fishing-basics/ ice-fishing-safety/

West Parry Sound District CSS

Dunchurch Lunch and Learn

DUNCHURCH: Catharina Bowers - It was January 14th 2025 already, Lunch and Learn in Dunchurch! We always have an excellent turn out in Dunchurch. We like to learn, and we like to eat! And when you get a good lunch at the outing, there is no need to make another heavy-duty meal for supper. Or at least I don’t.

Dawn Rouse Mark the Sr. Connect Navigator opened the ‘Learn’ portion of the Lunch and Learn by announcing that she had bad news. But we didn’t get to be this age by sweat-

ing the little things that don’t work out, we are able to improvise. The guest speaker, had called Dawn the day before to announce that she would not be able to make the date. So, the trouper that Dawn is she took over the program and improvised. The speaker was going to talk about ‘Falls’ and how to prevent falls. We had a gal sitting at our table who happened to be new to Dunchurch, my new friend Anita. Twenty years working in the hospital, followed by community pediatric care. She put up her hand and offered to help.

Anita was able to get up and speak to us; seniors should do a health check on themselves, when you wake up while still sitting on the side of your bed, a head-totoe sweep. She spoke about seniors’ health and about falls, and how to safely get up using a chair. She also mentioned that if you happen to drop something on the floor, don’t instinctively pick it up imme-

diately, plan out in your mind, how to pick it up safely or wait to have someone else do it. Risking the possibility of having a fall yourself, is not worth picking it up yourself. Sometimes you just must ask someone to help you. Staying healthy, eat a good diet, and exercise to stay limber and healthy. Thank you, Anita, a great introduction to Dunchurch! There was rousing applause at the conclusion of her short presentation. This senior’s community is magnificently talented. Before we knew it, Janice our deputy fire chief, spoke about another aspect of safety for seniors. She mentioned seniors trading in shoes with laces and opting for Velcro closures instead. The number of falls that resulted because of loose shoes is a huge safety issue. She spoke about fire safety in the home; for instance, don’t wear flowing sleeves while cooking, always facing pot handles into the stove so that they will not fall off the stove,

if you happen to bump into the handle. Then there was a question about fire extinguishers, and how to use one properly so that you can get out of the house. Janice mentioned that fire extinguishers are only good for 6 years, then they need to be refilled or replaced. Old, used extinguishers can be taken to the Fire Hall. We then had a volunteer who has been with CSS 2 ½ years. She spoke briefly about the personal satisfaction of volunteering and giving back to the community. In the Dunchurch and surrounding municipality, we have a wealth of talented seniors from all walks of life, who each can

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

do a talk based on what they have done in

their former work careers.

Lunch followed with a lovely lasagna, Caesar salad, and bread sticks. This tasty plate was followed by a choice of fruit pie for dessert. Catering was done by ‘Sherry,’ lunch was delicious ladies, thank you!

Lunch and Learn is a program from the West Parry Sound Community Support

Janice Bray Assistant Fire Chief of whitestone Services. They offer seniors 65 plus though Senior Connect-One-on-one service navigation and connection. These are some of the areas they can help with.

Do you have anything preventing you for feeling safe in your home?

Is there enough food in your refrigerator to prepare a healthy meal?

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 you like someone to talk with?

If you need any one of these above questions answered, connect with Seniors Connect-One-on-One by calling 705-7465602

Community Support Services (CSS) is committed to serving seniors living in their own home. They believe that quality and caring services must be accessible and safe. These services are made possible by caring and dedicated volunteers.

CSS is a non-profit organization. CSS receives partial funding from the Ministry of Health Long Term Care through our Ontario Health Network North.

You have probably heard about CSS West Parry Sound District Community Support Services if you have had a family member or friend in the hospital and they are discharging the patient back into the home. Then quite often CSS is involved to make sure that:

A) individuals who are age 18 years of age and older who have acute or chronic illness, or physical disability, B) individuals with special needs, C) seniors, are eligible for the intended services.

ICE SKATING

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)

SATURDAY NIGHTS - Public Skate: 6pm-8pm January 4th, February 1st, & March 1st - ADULTS

$3.50 CHILDREN $2.50 FAMILY (4+) $10.00

PARENTS AND TOTS - Tuesdays: 2pm-3pmThursdays: - ADULTS $3.00 CHILDREN $2.00

ADULT SKATING - Mondays: 10am-11:30amFridays: Ipm-2:30pm - ADULTS $3.50

FACILITY RENTALS 705-382-3811 - arena@ burksfalls.ca A black line with a diamond AI-generated content may be incorrect. DUNCHURCH REGULAR SKATING SCHEDULE AT THE DUNDOME - DUNCHURCH Monday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Public / Family Skating

6:00

us? If not, maybe it’s time to check us out and see how much fun we have in the community! We are conveniently located downtown Parry Sound 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 1 st January Country Jam Session 3rd Saturday of each

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

Hope to have you join us!

If you are wondering about rural availability, services can be structured to meet your needs within the WPS District. Call their office if you think you may qualify for a program. There are services and meaningful connections that support community members’ well-being.

1. Lunch and Learn is a wonderful example of that.

2. Friendly Visiting: is a service that helps seniors keep in touch with each other and their community.

3. Transportation: Transportation services are provided for medical appointments and personal errands for those who quality and are 18 years of age and older.

4. Meals on Wheels: Hot meals or frozen meals are available. Tailored made specialized dietary needs.

5. Circle of Care provides additional support of isolated seniors, who otherwise may not connect socially.

Their Volunteers provide social support, helping hands, and assist with a variety of roles such as driving, delivering, shopping, visiting and peer support.

This organization is a not-for-profit charitable organization, and your financial contributions makes a massive difference. You can donate by mail or drop off cheque/ cash to the address, please call

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 A black line with a diamond AI-generated content may be incorrect. SOUTH RIVER 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

Dawn Rouse Mark

Male bats have the highest rate of

The largest taxi fleet in the world is found in Mexico City. The city boasts a fleet of over 60,000 taxis.

During your lifetime, you'll eat about 60,000 pounds of food. That's the weight of about 6 elephants.

A Century of Memories, Celebrating

Ross Metcalf’s 100th Birthday at the Burk’s Falls Manor

BURK’S FALLS: A gathering of love and celebration was held in

Burk’s Falls on January 7th, 2024, as family came together to celebrate the 100th birthday of Ross Metcalf. Born in 1924 on the family property at Owl Lake—a site that has since become a campground—Ross’s life is a remarkable tapestry woven with resilience, love, and countless cherished moments.

Ross provided for his family through hard work, delivering furnace oil locally and later working at the hardware store in Sundridge. Doris contributed as well, waitressing at the local restaurant, known as Pemberton’s. She also was known as the town’s skilled seamstress. Their home on Ryerson Crescent was filled with love, laughter, and the bustle of family life until the early 1970s.

Ross’s life, however, was not without hardship. He is predeceased by his beloved Doris, and his sons Albert and William. As the longest-living member of his family, Ross has outlived most of his siblings, many of whom lived to their late 90s. Only three of his siblings—Velma, Patricia, and Eleanor—survive today.

Ross’s journey through life began in a large family as the youngest of 13 siblings. Despite his humble beginnings, his story would take him across the globe and back, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. During World War II, Ross met the love of his life, Doris, while stationed in England. Doris, a chef for the Royal British Army, captured Ross’s heart under unusual circumstances. As granddaughter Angela recounts, “Nana was going on a blind date with Bud Smith, Poppa’s best friend. Since ladies weren’t allowed to go out unsupervised, she brought along a young lady from her troop, and Poppa tagged along to keep her company. That’s how Poppa and Nana met, and the rest is history!”

The couple married and returned to Canada after the war, settling briefly with Ross’s family before making their home on Ryerson Crescent in Burk’s Falls. There, Ross and Doris raised their five children: Albert, Joan, William, James, and Susan. Carol-Ann, (Joan’s daughter) was born on Ross’s 39th birthday, an occasion that made him a proud grandfather. Over the years, their family grew to include 14 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. Ross’s first great-grandchild arrived when he was 60, and his first great-great-grandchild, Nevaeh, was born when he was 84.

THE TRAILS ARE ALIVE!

THANKS FOR THE DONATIONS! SLED DOG

RACES – ALMAGUIN COMMUNITY

A lesser-known chapter of Ross’s story is his service during World War II. At just 14 years old, Ross lied about his age to join the army. Alongside his best friend, Bud Smih, they served as “glory boys,” a role that required them to retrieve fallen and wounded soldiers from the battlefield. “This is why Poppa doesn’t speak about the war,” Angela explained. “It was a difficult and dangerous job, but he and Bud faced it together.”

Now residing at the Almaguin Manor in Burk’s Falls, Ross is lovingly cared for by his granddaughter Carol-Ann Stewart (Jenkins). Despite the passage of time, Ross’s wit, wisdom, and warmth continue to inspire his family and the community around him.

As family gathered to celebrate this extraordinary milestone, they reflected on Ross’s remarkable journey—a century of resilience, love, and devotion. His life is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the strength found in family and community.

Here’s to Ross Metcalf, a man whose 100 years have left an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Please join us in wishing Ross a wonderful year ahead, filled with love, joy and health. If you would like to send Ross a card, I am sure that he would really appreciate hearing from you. Mr. Ross Metcalf, PO Box 16, Burk’s Falls, P0A 1C0

HORSE TAILS AND TRAILS

With Wally Smith

The mind controls the body, the whole body prepares to move the feet. a horse’s centre of balances in preparation to move. any stimulus outside the horse’s centre of mass needs to be understood by the horse, what is it, why is it there, and what do i need to do in order to properly navigate a healthy way out of it. is it something that will go away on its own or do i need to make adjustments in order to make things feel better, can i ignore it or should i do something about it. depending on the amount of weight outside the centre of mass of your horse and the intensity behind it, will dictate the intensity of your horse’s behavior in dealing with it. some things a horse is able to ignore as no big

deal, while other things they need to immediately react to in order to regain their balance, and the centre of balance is their most comfortable when there is only themselves to deal with. now bring a horse’s ability to see things and feel things correctly in a natural transition from the ques-

tion they are asking of themselves when something changes in the environment and how they should deal with that change. left to their own ability they will find their easiest way out, if we intervene the horse loses his own physical intelligence and begins to listen to ours instead. if we create cause for concern in our horses they will always be concerned in our approach, our intentions, our presence but if we see a horse in trouble and we help them find the answer and it feels good to them they will begin to recognize us as a good feel and begin to trust in our presence. they begin to ignore our behavior that has no intention behind them. horses are not afraid of predators they co-exist and even alert one another to changes in the environment. what they are afraid of is the intensity and deliberateness that the hunt creates within the environment. they know when to run and they know when they should be still. and they also know when its time to fight so please be careful on how you present yourself to every horse until you know they are ok with and ask them if they may need help. horses are very sensitive, and we sometimes call it reactive and if we cant see the problems trying to fix it only makes us become part of the problem and not the solution. their emotions play a huge roll in their success over the long haul their physical strength will only carry them so far allow their own mental and physical intelligence to guide them thru the things we want to establish the things we want them to do. when a horse can begin to relax the way he sees us is has less intensity we begin to communicate more directly as the trust in us builds and their concerns slip away. so when we place ourselves on their back remember if all of a horses faculties are not in play we only have a portion of the horse and not the horse as a whole.

ARMOUR TOWNSHIP PROVIDES NOTICE TO WITHDRAW FROM TRI -COUNCIL SHARED SERVICE AGREEMENTS

The Township of Armour believes that a strong municipality, providing the best possible value 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 partnerships to work, a clear and common vision is required. Insulating ourselves within our own municipal borders will not allow this vision to be realized.

At its January 14, 2025 Council meeting, the Township of Armour took the difficult step of advising that it is providing written notice of its intention to withdraw from both the tri - council Library agreement (as of January 14, 2026) and the tri - council Shared Services Agreement for the Arena, Landfill and Fire Services (as of December 31, 2027). Council felt strongly that one of its tri- council partners does not share a common vision with us and prefers to stay insulated within its borders. Unfortunately, this means that the partnership is working counter to what we are trying to achieve. This decision was not taken lightly by any means. We see this as a step back from one partnership to allow us to work on more productive partnerships and lead a vision for the entire Almaguin Highlands. How this vision is formed requires these new partnerships. Region-wide, fully-supported services for economic development. Region-wide, fully-supported and coordinated services for healthcare delivery. Region-wide, fully-supported services for housing and land-use planning. Centres of excellence for individual services for everyone across the Almaguin Highlands. Building on the success-through- cooperation of our Fire Services across Almaguin. Build ing on the success of our economic development through Almaguin Community Economic Development (ACED). Building on the success of our Almaguin-wide approach to healthcare services through the Almaguin Highlands Health Council (AHHC)

We need a view of our infrastructure needs across the entire region, from arenas to fire halls to health and wellness centres. We need a shift to acting as one cohesive unit with one common vision so that we can look down the road to future generations. This vision should serve the entire Almaguin Highlands. It is only with this type of broader, stronger partnerships that we will get the serious attention required from other levels of government to allow us to best-serve all of our citizens. It will all ow us to provide the services that our current citizens should expect without the inefficiency of doing this in isolation. It will allow us to attract new businesses, new services, new people to our area.

I am a sled dog snob.

l.A. Bowden

I don’t consider Alaskan Huskies or euro hound mixes sled dogs. These are not traditional Northern breeds who are equipped to be put in -40 temperatures to beat all hell in a sled dog race. They should not be kept chained to barrels or in outdoor kennels without proper bedding, elevation or a fenced perimeter.

Sled dog breeds in my eyes are the Inuit breeds of dogs such as the Inuit Dog, Labrador Husky, original malamutes not the ones of today that are Labrador Husky Inuit Dog crosses, Greenland Dogs, Elkhounds, Siberian Huskies...these are true sled dogs.

They are not built for speed but built for endurance. These dogs can handle the distance of a sled dog race in -40 temperatures without physical harm unlike the ‘racing sled dogs’ we see in the Iditarod. If you want PETA and the animal rights crazies off your backs race the traditional dogs, respect them, treat them as you would treat yourself and honour their Inuit culture by doing as you should and not bringing shame upon a culture of people when it’s not warranted.

THE MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ARMOUR

Recycling one glass jar saves enough energy to watch TV for 3 hours.

Owls are the only birds who can see the color blue.