Issue 15 2024 April 18 NG Times

Ferguson Forest Centre proposes land sale to ensure long term viability

On April 16, the Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation (FFCC) presented to the Municipality of North Grenville a proposal requesting the sale of approximately 5.3 hectares (13.1 acres) of under-utilized land to fund a future sustainable capital investment plan. The land is located along the northern side of County Road 43 between St. Michael’s Catholic High School and Anniversary Way. Leased from the Municipality of North Grenville, the parcel of land is within the Kemptville urban service area, is of lower quality than other lands used by the Ferguson Tree Nursery and is not required for tree growing purposes.

The land is not classified as prime agricultural land

within the Canada Land Inventory and has required continuous supplementation to grow nursery stock of acceptable quality. The Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation operates as a social enterprise non-profit organization that owns and provides oversight to the Ferguson Tree Nursery. Profits from the Nursery are invested into sustaining the Nursery and maintaining and enhancing the recreational trails and amenities, as well as conservation of the green spaces.

“In recent years, the Ferguson Tree Nursery has diversified product offerings and has implemented improvements in how they operate with their current resources. The reality is that the Nursery is operating with

equipment and infrastructure much of which was in place when the Province operated the facility in the 1990s, and those assets are reaching end of life,” stated FFCC President, Carl Doucette. “The Nursery can no longer operate as a small farm, so a carefully planned sustainable capital investment strategy has been developed that will position the Nursery to grow and strengthen its competitive advantage and, in doing so, will ensure the long-term viability of the organization.”

The Ferguson Tree Nursery produces millions of native and naturalized noninvasive species annually. Under the federally funded Two Billion Tree program, the Ferguson Tree Nursery has secured a contract

to 2031 for the provision of bareroot seedlings. As well, the product diversification initiative towards potted stock of perennials and shrubs is proving very successful. This bodes well for a positive outlook for the future. That future, however, depends upon securing funding for the capital investment program.

“We have explored private sector partnerships and government grants and funding but were not able to identify feasible funding options through those avenues. As a non-profit organization with depreciated assets and without ownership of the land on which the Nursery operates, funding through traditional financial institutions is also

The subject lands that FFC hopes the Municipality will consider selling.

Jill Sturdy moving on to the next chapter of her life

by Brandon Mayer

I can say with confidence that overall, it was a rewarding experience.”

When asked about the highlights of her journey in her municipal role, Jill had much to say. She listed several projects that she is proud of, including helping to secure the federal funding for the County Road 43 expansion, being crowned Canada’s Most Active Community in 2021, and helping to organize the Civic Awards as an opportunity for the community to “celebrate one another”.

pad, basketball net and even an outdoor rink. It was almost 10 years in the making and I am so thrilled this Council made it happen.”

“The greatest highlight was of course working in and for my community,” Jill added. “There are so many incredible people doing amazing things. My role at the Municipality was at many times ‘outward facing’, which gave me many opportunities to participate in community events.”

North Grenville’s Corporate Media Relations Officer – Jill Sturdy – has accepted an exciting new career offer that ultimately means her departure from the Municipality. Jill held her position with the Municipality for 4.5 years working alongside Mayor Nancy Peckford.

“When I started in 2019, it was a new position to increase communication capacity and better communicate municipal updates with residents,” Jill explained. “I am passionate about building community and one of the things I loved about working for the Municipality was the opportunity to engage with and support the community.”

Indeed, most of the Municipality’s press releases which have been printed in the Times over the years were written by Jill.

“I enjoy the thrill of politics, so I had a lot of fun working alongside the Mayor and Council,” Jill added. “The Mayor and I figured out very quickly how to work well together and we got a lot done in these few short years! It was a lot of work and even a bit crazy at times, but when I look back,

“When I first started in 2019, we still needed the final piece of funding for County Road 43,” said Jill. “We launched a federal petition to gather public and business support for the project. We were successful in getting the funding - and after a number of approvals and County Council votes, fast forward to 2024, the construction has just begun!”

Jill also expressed that the visit from Elizabeth Dowdeswell to the community in 2022 – when she was serving as Lieutenant Governor – was an honour. “She was thrilled to attend Kemptville LIVE and listen to Burton Cummings!” said Jill. “When we arrived, we got to the front gates and suddenly the sky opened up and it started pouring rain! We decided to wait it out under the tent, which gave the Lieutenant Governor and Mayor Peckford the opportunity to meet and thank the volunteers.”

Jill is community oriented, and recalled one instance when she was proud to be involved in her community, even before being employed by the Municipality – the Riverside Park Expansion Project. “I was part of a group of local parents who advocated for more outdoor recreational amenities in town,” said Jill. “We met with staff and the former Mayor and asked for more amenities such as a splash

The question remainswhich opportunity managed to snag Jill away from her role with the Municipality? She will be working with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), supporting municipalities to become more climate resilient. There are a number of streams through a program called the Green Municipal Fund, and Jill will be part of the team launching a new initiative called “Growing Canadian Community Canopies”. Jill explained that in essence, this initiative will support the planting of trees in communities. Jill has a degree in Conservation Biology.

“My background is in conservation, and this role is going back to my roots and my passion for conservation – in particular, forests,” explained Jill. “I spent most of my career working for national conservation organizations, including Nature Canada and the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, to raise awareness and gather support for increased protection of wilderness and wildlife. I am a nature lover at heart and one of the things I love about NG is being surrounded by forests and wildlife.”

Jill asserts that she will still be active in the North Grenville community – her community – but just in another capacity. Her last day with the Municipality was April 12, and she began her new job earlier this week. Best of luck on your new adventure, Jill!

Electric Vehicle Show returns to Sustainability Fair

The popular Electric Vehicle Show will return to Kemptville as part of the 15th Annual Sustainability Fair on Sunday May 5, 2024. Come join us at the North Grenville Municipal Centre for this free event and speak with owners about their experiences driving these vehicles in our local area and, in some cases, hundreds of thousands of kilometres already.

As we strive to bring our community a show that is both current and relevant, we will bring together some of the newest models, some local dealerships, and plenty of test drives that can be arranged and conducted on site during the day. It’s true that EVs are now commonplace on our roads, but where else can you compare many different makes and models, talk with the

cont'd from front page

owners themselves, and then go for a drive?

People are choosing these vehicles for a variety of reasons. Consider performance – in the past year, the Rimac Nevera, a 2,000hp hypercar with four motors well outside of any responsible transportation budget, set speed records of 412 km/h then set another speed record the next day at 275 km/h…in reverse!

Consider emissions - an efficient electric car achieving 100km on just 15kWh of electricity in the Province of Ontario would emit roughly 600 grams of CO2 on average, while just 1 L of gas or diesel produces around 2,300 grams (and if we want to compare apples-to-apples, we must add to that the emissions to extract, refine, and transport that fuel). From cradle-to-grave, EVs are

Ferguson Forest Centre proposes land sale to ensure long term viability

not an option,” Doucette explained. “This proposal and capital investment strategy is necessary for the continued viability and long-term sustainability of both the Ferguson Tree Nursery and the recreational and conservation green space that has been under our stewardship for more than 20 years.” No public recreation spaces, trails or community groups would be impacted by the release of this land. Once in a stronger financial position, the Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation can continue to enhance recreational and conservation activities.

The Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation presents its proposal as an opportunity to protect the long-term viability of the Nursery and the Centre, while giving the Municipality the opportunity to address social pressures of concern in the community

through appropriate designation and future use of the land. This could include, in addition to commercial uses, affordable and accessible housing along a main thoroughfare with a future active transportation corridor, all located within the designated urban boundary with access to substantive existing and planned infrastructure.

Lynne Tyler, Chair of the Friends of Ferguson Forest advised, “Given the reality of what the nursery operation is facing, we support the proposed solution.” She further noted “We would like to thank the staff and Board members for their hard work and diligence in pursuing every possible avenue to avoid having to make this difficult decision. By pursuing this solution, the Ferguson Forest Centre will be able to maintain both the nursery

consistently shown to be cleaner even when considering the higher manufacturing inputs. Consider warranty – the battery in the modern EV carries an 8-year warranty and 160-240,000km depending on the model.

Consider price – many options now exist that are less expensive than the average new car in Canada, qualify for a rebate, and have lower operating costs.

This year, we have four local dealerships participating and bringing their latest models: Otto’s BMW, Barrhaven Ford, Myers Kemptville Chevrolet Buick GMC, and Smiths Falls Hyundai. Talk with their representatives on the latest offers available to you. The Electric Vehicle Council of Ottawa will have representation on site, as well as the EV Experience for those test

drives already mentioned. Transport Canada representatives will join us to talk about their rebate program and more.

Finally, we will also arrange an EV presentation as part of the Fair. Come join us in the Theatre to hear the latest from the experts and learn more about the vehicles and charging them as you evaluate what choices could be right for your next set of wheels.

As always, follow us on Facebook or watch for further announcements for more details on the timing of the presentation, the test drives and models available, and other announcements on what you might expect to see and experience.

operations and the forest that are so important to this community.”

Carl Doucette met with the Times and confirmed that in essence, the Ferguson Forest Centre is running out of money, but will be able to remain viable if this plan is approved. Like most people and businesses, FFC is currently struggling with the high costs of everything. Carl explained that the FFC board does not care what is going to be done with the land. They are just hoping for the highest sale price, and for the sale money to be donated back to FFC (less any expenses incurred by the Municipality).

The April 16 proposal to Council could not be covered in the Times by deadline. Any relevant highlights will be shared in the next issue.

Rideau Glen Ladies League 2024

MEET AND GREET & REGISTRATION

Tuesday April 30th, 2024 3 - 6 pm

Rideau Glen Clubhouse

L

IGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

Come exchange your winter stories, get re-acquianted with last years’ members, and meet new members.

Meet your 2024 executive get all the information for a great 2024 season

Tuesday League Play starts May 7th (9 holes, AM & PM tee-offs )

ALL ARE WELCOME

COME PLAY GOLF WITH THE RG LADIES

Red Shoes Run Family Day event for FASD

On Saturday, May 11 from 9 am to noon, Rural FASD Support Network, along with the LLG District Health Unit and Montague Public School are hosting the first annual Red Shoes Run Family Day at 1200 Rosedale Rd S.

This free event – with Wayne Cavanagh emceeing – will include live fiddle music, a bike and helmet inspection by the OPP, a Montague Township fire truck, a petting zoo, a craft table with Mother's Day items, sack and egg races, Rocks and Rings curling, greetings from MPPs Steve Clark and John Jordan as well as Warden Nancy Peckford, and information booths on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

The highlight is a charity run, led by international FASD advocate RJ Formanek of the Red Shoes Movement with a fantastic loot bag. Immediately following that, people can also go to the Rosedale Hall where a vendors/artisan fair with a vintage car gathering will be taking place.

To register and support people living with FASD, please go to https://ruralfasd.ca/red-shoes-run-family-day/. All artisans and vendors are also invited to reserve a free table by emailing info@ruralfasd.ca.

HIGH TECH EYE CARE

HIGH TECH EYE WEAR

Annual Comedy Night & Auction An

The critical importance of cybersecurity for small businesses and home users

Contact Tanya Baird

by Wallace Cinnamon

258

In today's digital age, the significance of cybersecurity extends beyond large corporations, reaching into the realms of small businesses and home users. With the increasing reliance on digital technology, these groups are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals, leading to financial loss, identity theft, and damage to reputation.

Home users are also at risk, especially with the prevalence of smart devices and remote work. Home networks can be gateways for cybercriminals to access personal information and potentially infiltrate larger networks.

Traditional antivirus software may not be suffi-

Small businesses, often considered the backbone of small-town economies, are particularly vulnerable. They typically handle sensitive customer data but may lack robust cybersecurity infrastructure. A breach can result in significant financial losses and erode customer trust, which is vital for maintaining community support and loyalty.

cient to combat advanced threats. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions offer a more comprehensive approach by continuously monitoring and analyzing endpoint data to identify suspicious activities. EDR provides real-time protection and enables faster response to incidents, significantly enhancing defense against sophisticated cyber attacks.

To enhance cybersecurity, individuals and businesses should keep all software and systems up to date with the latest security patches, use

complex passwords, educate employees about safe internet practices, regularly backup important data, use reputable antivirus software and consider EDR solutions for comprehensive protection, protect networks with next generation firewalls, ensure Wi-Fi networks are secure and encrypted, and add an extra layer of security with multi-factor authentication.

Cybersecurity is a critical concern for small businesses and home users alike. By understanding the risks and implementing effective security measures, including advanced solutions like EDR, individuals and businesses can protect themselves from the potentially devastating effects of cyber attacks. It's not just about safeguarding data; it's about ensuring the continuity, reputation, and trustworthiness of your personal and professional life. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and make cybersecurity a priority in your digital world.

North Grenville Arts Guild executive’s remarkable achievements

by Jayne Couch Molony

What a joy it was to have sat down with the ladies who run the NG Arts Guild, a tight team that learns from each other, they have organized ‘some cool stuff around town’. Over the past four years, the ladies have been in constant communication to discuss creative ideas and bringing concepts to fruition, with a tenure marked by creativity, community engagement, and unwavering dedication.

President Tammy Keith, whose philosophy is to present her vision of the world, the problems and beauty with abstract emotion and a prevailing sense of fun.

Vice President Carole Marshal l, an accomplished landscape artist who finds inspiration in nature and water reflecting her diverse heritage and contemplative nature.

Treasurer Tabitha Valliant, a self-taught artist who is inspired by the colour and movement of Van Gogh, and the large florals of Georgia O’Keefe.

And acting Secretary Sharon Billings, Trends in Glass, a stained-glass artisan inspired by medieval cathedrals and the beauty of nature.

Thank you to the Executive Board of the North Grenville Arts Guild’s for their remarkable accomplishments at the helm and for making an indelible mark on the arts scene in the North Grenville community.

JCouchMolony.ca

Every quilt tells a story:

Centennial quilts:

In 1967, Canadians celebrated the 100th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation. Across the country, there were celebrations of all kinds, some produced by the government, individuals, communities and businesses. The federal government encouraged the people of Canada to participate in a centennial project. There were a number of quilts that were made using the stylized maple leaf Centennial Logo.

It consisted of a stylized maple leaf composed of 11 equilateral triangles representing Canada's ten provinces and the Northwest Territories (Canada's accepted geography at the time). If there is one in your family, we would

love to see and document the quilt.

Millennial quilts:

What is a Millennial Quilt? A quilt that was made to celebrate the year 2000. It is also known as a Y2K quilt. The quilt is made with 2000 piecessmall squares of fabric.. Some millennial quilts were in fact made prior to the year 2000. There was an internet posting/blog that encouraged quilters to trade charm squares and to be able to amass a larger variety of fabrics that could be put into the quilt. We did have one millennial quilt that was documented in the 2023 EOQD.

Have a quilt to be documented? Ideally the quilt will be 25 years or older. Quilts will be documented on May 2 and 3 in North Grenville. Email to book an appointment to have your quilt photographed and documented: documentation. ngquilts@gmail.com.

Inspirations 2024

by Giedre Abromaitis

The Manotick Art Asso ciation is thrilled to announce that its annual spring show and sale, “Inspirations”, will be back again this April 19 to 21. The show will take place at the Curling Club in Manotick, 5519 South River Drive, and will feature the works of 44 area artists. The show runs Friday, 6 - 9 pm; Saturday, 10 - 4:00; and Sunday, 10 - 4:00. Entry is free and there is plenty of parking, as well as an accessible entrance.

The show brings a breath of fresh air into the community after a long

Romance on the Road: Year Three

by Darrell Nunn

During the pandemic, NGCT, like everyone else, was housebound. Our spring and fall annual big productions ceased. What to do? We love performing plays. Fun 'work' is play!

Darrell Nunn, NGCT VP decided to rehearse three very small cast plays in members’ homes for our own entertainment. The casts did not know where, when, or even IF they would ever perform.

Two of these plays became "Romance on the Road", conceived as a travelling road show to small interested venues. It worked!

Saturday 1 - 3 will feature Chad Wolfe on fiddle and Sherryl Fitzpatrick on piano. As in every year, we will also have door prizes that can be won simply by filling out a ballot.

MAA has always taken pride in supporting charities through the proceeds of our spring show. This year, we will be supporting the Manotick Food Cupboard. We will also be collecting cash donations at the door for this worthy charity.

winter through a feast of vibrant colours and images. Visitors can enjoy viewing landscapes, abstracts, florals, and wildlife painted in oils, watercolours, acrylics, pastel, batik, and wood. There are also several photographers showing their art. Many of the artists will be familiar to long-time patrons of Inspirations, but we are excited to welcome several new and exciting artists to the line-up this year.

The show will also feature live music on two of the days. Scott Voelzing will entertain our guests on Friday evening.

This spring will be our third 'Romance', with a larger cast of fourteen.

The idea is simple: we provide the show, the host secures the venue, does its own publicity, and sells its own tickets to make some money for its own charitable purposes. We will do seven performances. In NG we will perform for:

Friends of the Library, hosting at St. John's United, 400 Prescott Street, Saturday, May 11, at 2 pm - contact blrousseau@gmail.com.

Oxford Mills Guiding Unit, hosting at Maplewood, 92 Maplewood Avenue, Oxford Mills, Saturday,

Come out to the spring show! We would love to see you and your family have an enjoyable time viewing artworks that are beautiful, inspiring, and family friendly. Art, in any of its forms, beautifies and enriches our world. The painting that you fall in love with can bring you peace and joy for many, many years.

May 11 at 7 pm - contact the oxfordmillstripunit@ gmail.com

St. James Anglican Church, 35 Clothier Street, Saturday, May 31 at 7:30 pm - contact capesydney@ gmail.com

Thanks to a grant from the NG municipality, this year we are able to offer this comic production to volunteer organizations at a very modest cost.

We will also be performing in Richmond (April 28, 2 pm, St. John's Anglican), Osgoode (June 2, 2 pm, St. Paul's), North Gower (June 1, 7 pm, United Church), and Pierce's Corners (May 30, 7:30 pm).

A previous article on Life Drawing pointed out that NG "continues to evolve as a hub of arts and culture." We strive to be part of that evolving hub.

What are the shows? An all-comedy mix of two one act plays interspersed with songs and story poems. The cast ranges in age from preteen to seventies!

"Prince Charming's Complaint", Bruce Kane

The Prince is in his

psychiatrist's office, getting therapy after his three failed marriages to Rapunzel, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty. The princesses provide an alternate commentary.

"Overtones", Alice Gerstenberg

Two society women are played by four actors, the 'cultured' and 'primitive' self of each. The two cultured selves pseudo-politely converse while their primitive alter egos reveal their true thoughts and feelings.

It has been a joy to have been so well received in the past two years. We sincerely hope that this year's presentations will be equally enjoyed.

. Plumbing . Heating . Cooling . Electrical Service & Installation

9 Elvira St. W., Kemptville LTD

613.258.5943

Gregory, Mildred

November 13, 1923 – April 11, 2024

Peacefully at Carleton Lodge on Thursday, April 11, 2024 in her 100th year, Mildred Eleanor Gregory (nee Avis), passed. Beloved wife of the late G. Frederick (1988) and dearlyloved mother of Nancy Habinski (Leonard), the late Gary Frederick (2001), and grandma to Gregory, Stephen, Marc (Michelle) and Brian. Pre-deceased by her siblings, Howard (Ethel), Helen (Joe), Earl, Eileen (Edward), Doreen (Earl) and Marjorie. Mum was born in Scarborough, Ontario, to Clara Elsie and Frank Avis. Mum met and fell in love with Dad, and they married in April 1946. They lived in Toronto and Mum was happy as a homemaker and Dad worked for CPR. Mum liked to sew, crochet and knit especially for her grandchildren. Mum moved to Kanata, Ontario in 2006, to join her family who had recently moved to Kanata. She enjoyed living in her home, tended to her garden and knit many sweaters for her family. She enjoyed family gatherings with Len, Nancy and their family. In February 2012, Mum, along with her cat Patti, moved to Robertson House Retirement Community in Ottawa. In October 2017, Mum, at the age of 93, moved to Carleton Lodge where she resided until her passing. The family would like to thank the kind and caring staff at Carleton Lodge for their great care of her and for ensuring that Mom’s last days were pain-free and peaceful. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Capital Funeral Home & Cemetery, 3700 Prince of Wales Dr., Nepean, ON K2C 3H1, 613-692-1211 on Friday, April 19, 2024 after 2:00 p.m. Funeral Service will commence in the Chapel at 3:00 p.m. Interment will be at Glendale Funeral Home & Cemetery, 1810 Albion Rd., Etobicoke, ON, M9W 5T1 on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. If desired, memorial contributions to any animal charity of your choice would be appreciated. www.arbormemorial. ca/en/capital

“Forever in our hearts”

The Prince play: Prince - Dominic Churchill; young princessYura Oudhoff; older psychiatrist - Roos Spaniers

THOMAS M. BYRNE

Baldwin's Birds

tom@tmblaw.ca

613.258.1277

Tid bit musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW

The following statement may need to be repeated several times to digest- "what we dislike in others, we dislike in ourselves." Or more strongly, "what we hate in others is what we hate in ourselves." The words can be changed to include annoy, frustrate or any word suggesting not easily tolerated. When evaluating our response to someone's actions, if we employ that principle, more understanding is achieved. So how do we process and develop greater understanding?

If you hate someone being "late", you probably are a person who arrives on time or perhaps on the early side. If you dislike someone being disorganized, others would probably see you as fastidious in terms of organization. If you have a dislike for someone who gossips, chances are that you have been the subject of gossip or you are someone who prefers to formulate your own conclusions. If you have trouble with controlling persons, you are more likely to be someone who prefers a compromise.

The compilation of experience, teachings, ramifications, chastisement, self discovery and adaptation results in how we respond to situations either consciously or subconsciously. When you realize that you are reacting negatively to someone's actions, ask yourself the tough question as to why. Explore the significance of your reaction. Contemplate new strategies to introduce into your life in response to the trigger. It takes practice and patience to uncover the reasons buried beneath.

Once you identify the trigger, keep the awareness in perspective, allowing yourself some grace to redirect your response. Understanding paves the way to self-growth and tolerance. Years of a myriad of experiences are not erased overnight. Be gentle with yourself. Each tiny step is worth it in instituting change. You are in the driver's seat of your reactions and actions, keep your seatbelt on - the road can be bumpy! You will pave the way to a new tomorrow.

We Are Back!

The day following the solar eclipse, and upon leaving my regular Tuesday morning breakfast venue, I decided to sally forth along the shores of the local river in the hope that I might spot an Osprey, should they have returned. Armed with my camera, I first traversed the nearby recreational riverside area where I had seen Ospreys in the past, but to no avail. So, I left town and headed upriver on the road parallel to it. I was in luck! I was just up the road where I was about to drive by a nesting box when I spotted something perched by it. Whoa! Nothing behind me, so safe to stop and back

up, and I was "in luck", or as most Canadians say "I lucked out!", and there was an Osprey perching and looking around, waiting for a mate! Well, I wasn't quite what it expected, but I kept it company for a short while and since it didn't look like it was going to be very active, I decided, being newly invigorated with its sighting, to try my luck at some of the other spots along the river. It was at this juncture, that another large bird flew past, just as I had closed my camera case, a Great Blue Heron - which was out of sight, of course, before my camera was back in my hands!

It was flying in the direction that I was going in, so

onward I went. Of course it was not in sight at my next stop and so onwards I go, once again. Not too far though and to quite a pleasant spot which was unusually noisy from both the rushing waters and the Redwing Blackbirds and Grackles, all of which were next to impossible to see! However, looking from my new foot-borne vantage point, I could see another lone Osprey on its nesting spot, but partially concealed by the twigs it was made of. Walking further along the pathway didn't improve the view of it either, so thoughts were turned to other possible places to see them. These were a little distance away

so it took a bit more time to get there. The sighting of a Swan and a couple of Mallard Ducks en route added to this time too. However, the next sighting was of a pair of Ospreys which made things well worthwhile indeed! Thus, my early morning whim proved to be a very successful one and I was able to return home feeling very uplifted at what I had seen and captured with my camera. I hope that you too are having some success in spotting the returning birds and are about to enjoy them for the next few summer months.

Stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin

Dave Percy

Diane Duford

Sies Visser

Trevor Meunier

The honourable know best

by Brandon Mayer

How much does an election vote really count for? I have often wondered that, as I’m sure many others have as well. It is wise to remember that there is strength in numbers. A vote in an election is not intended to help the voter “get their way”. Rather, the act of voting – when participated in by as many eligible voters as possible – is supposed to be a way for us to see the bigger picture of what the country, or province, or municipality wants as a whole.

Something that has always concerned me is the lack of accountability, transparency, and consultation with the public during the lengthy terms that our politicians serve. Four year terms for politicians mean that in an average Canadian lifespan (82 years), and factoring in the first 18 years of life during which voting is not allowed, the average Canadian has just 16 chances to vote for each level of government throughout their whole life.

Considering the numerous hugely impactful policies that are debated

and passed (or not passed) by all levels of government week after week, it can start to feel like 16 votes is not enough. Allow me to provide an example. In September of 2021, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was re-elected with a minority government. Liberals got 32.62% of the popular vote. Conservatives – 33.74%, and NDP – 17.82%. The Liberals won more seats, and were thus elected despite not having the highest number of votes. I have no problem with this system, because otherwise, some areas of Canada would have more voting power than others. It is still valuable to remember, however, that fewer than a third of Canadians supported Justin Trudeau 2.5 years ago.

Due to a coalition with the NDP (which Canadian voters were never allowed to have a say in, by the way), Justin Trudeau’s government has been able to pass many pieces of legislation easily. One of the most well talked about, is the carbon tax. It’s hard to find someone in our local area who isn’t enraged by the recent carbon tax hike, likely because rural Canadians rely heavily on fuel for transportation, as do farm-

ers when feeding the rest of the country. Throughout Canada, approximately 70% of Canadians oppose the carbon tax. Whether a Liberal or Conservative supporter (or otherwise), it is easy to see how in this economy, a carbon tax is not popular. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I will point out that houses, rent, food, utilities, clothes, and countless other things have skyrocketed in price at unprecedented levels, much of this as the result of the carbon tax being passed along from businesses to consumers.

When multiple polls clearly show that 70% of the country opposes something, as do several provincial Premiers (some of them Liberal), and now even NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, keeping the carbon tax in place makes democracy seem like a distant fairytale. What is the point of holding elections once every 4 years, if those we elect to represent us do whatever they want in the face of clear and direct outrage and polls suggesting that a vast majority of their constituents disagree with them? In Canada, the Prime Minister and Premier as well as federal politicians are given the title “Honourable”. It’s

starting to feel like rather than being represented, we are supposed to simply accept that the honourables know best, and can decide what is best for us.

I don’t play partisan politics. I vote for the person, not the party. I vote for whoever I feel will be prepared to take constituents’ concerns into consideration when voting in the House of Commons, regardless of party affiliations. I remember being disappointed when interviewing SD&G MPP Nolan Quinn before he was elected, when he used the phrase “get it done”. This phrase has long been used by Progressive-Conservative Premier Doug Ford as a slogan to suggest that his party is working hard for Ontarians. “Get what done?” is the question. I felt that now-MPP Quinn seemed to have trouble answering in my interview with him. When asked about the closure of rural schools, he told me his party valued rural schools very much, perhaps forgetting that they had already been in power for 4 years previously, and were therefore responsible for the closures!

I felt abandoned when Doug Ford’s government took a hard stance against

CUPE education workers in late 2022. Once again, my MPP was not only unresponsive to locals’ concerns, he actually became completely unreachable during the whole ordeal, such that it became the running joke of several social media memes. I am sure that residents of LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes felt a similar sense of abandonment when their esteemed MPP Steve Clark had to resign as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing due to the Greenbelt scandal. I have met MPP Clark several times, and he is a very personable individual who seems to care about his community. Perhaps he was a scapegoat in the Greenbelt affair. As usual, the only people who truly lost were the millions of people who deserve an honest government that listens with both ears.

Besides the brainless carbon tax, and a general feeling that government officials never face consequences for bad or even unethical leadership, what actually inspired this editorial was an article about Doug Ford rejecting a Chief Medical Officer recommendation to raise the legal drinking age to 21 years. He

stated that his government prefers “treating people like adults”, and for the first time in a long time, I agreed with him. While I think there should have been bigger issues on the agenda besides “buck a beer” when Ford was first campaigning for his job, I can agree that those who are old enough to serve in the military and risk their lives for their country should be allowed to legally drink a beer or a glass of wine in said country. I actually would support lowering the drinking age to 18 in Ontario.

One drop of hope is easily lost in an ocean of concerns. In a world of astounding technological advancements, is there not an economical way for Canadians to vote on pressing issues (such as the carbon tax), rather than trusting that a ballot cast every 4 years counts as having sufficient say? Voting increasingly feels like deciding which direction the dog should be facing when let off his leash, and then having no control over which way he turns for the next 4 years. Like many Canadians, I am tired of the dog defecating in my backyard.

Dear Editor,

I hear there is a push on in North Grenville to build tiny homes as a possible solution for affordable housing for the many who have little hope of getting a place of their own. We wanted to build a 600 square foot tiny home for our son and his partner but you’d be naive to think that the process of getting a building permit from NG would be straightforward. It was painfully slow and incredibly frustrating dealing with the inflexible bureaucracy.

We started the building permit review process for a tiny home on December 15th. It is now April 2024 and we have virtually given up on this initiative. Why?... because we have been stifled by the NG building department who seemed unable and unwilling to make the building permitting process fair, effective or efficient. We now fear being abused during the building process. Despite providing them with

code compliant architectural drawings, stamped engineering documentation, and manufacturers’ shop drawings for structural components, a series of confusing rejections by a plans reviewer ensued. Our designer warned us of the inspection shenanigans before we submitted plans, but we never expected we’d be subjected to outright opposition that amounted to bureaucratic malpractice.

For any of you thinking about building a tiny home, be very wary of the pitfalls and frustration which you will encounter with the NG Building Department. For us, this was a total exercise in futility and we cannot say that it was in any way pleasurable or helpful.

Andrew Thriscutt

Dear Editor,

I attended the opening night of Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre's production of The Little Mermaid. It was a sold-out show, and

no wonder. KYMTC never fails to present a production of the highest calibre. Its creativity and ingenuity in direction, staging, set and costume design, lighting and musical effects, etc, amaze the audience almost as much as the performers themselves. These young performers' acting, singing and dancing thrilled and mesmerized the packed audience and left us all smiling long after the curtain came down.

How lucky we are to have this wonderful opportunity in our own community for young people (and the many volunteers behind the scenes) to express their talent, energy and devotion.

The only negative was that our municipal theatre's sound system needs attention to provide our youth (and other performers) the showcase they deserve. Perhaps this is something that Council might prioritize in future municipal budgets?

I urge everyone to go see

the show, if there are tickets left. It is not just a bunch of kids putting on a musical. It is a first-rate production that will delight you and lighten your heart.

M. LeBlanc

Dear Editor,

I am presently reading a book written by Liz Cheney, who has a very long list of profiles in the US Republican Government and Congress.

The title of the book is “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning”. With the threat of the possibility of Donald Trump becoming president again, she

describes her experience throughout the last round with him.

As everyone knows, there were people killed, murdered on January 6, 2021! There is a picture of the memorial service for Officer Brian Sicknick. In my mind, Donald Trump and his supporters are totally guilty for all of this. In-

cluded among these people are the “Proud Boys” and “Oath Keepers”, who Mr. Trump encouraged totally. They were also represented on Parliament Hill in Ottawa during the occupation for three weeks I believe, and Mr. Poilievre was out cheering them on. To me, that is scary.

Do these people then

not want law and order? We have enough crime already without needing more. The thought of Donald Trump returning to power is frightening. It does affect us. The thought of Mr. Poilievre getting more power is also frightening.

I wish I could think more positively, but it’s difficult. Kath Piché

Merrickville Mayor found guilty of Code of Conduct breach

by Brandon Mayer

An investigation into a complaint lodged over nine months ago has finally concluded that Merrickville Mayor Michael Cameron is guilty of one of the two Code of Conduct violations of which he was accused.

According to the final report released by Cunningham, Swan, Carty, Little & Bonham LLP, the first allegation against Mayor Cameron was that he had a conflict of interest when verbally adding an item to the agenda during the July 1 Council meeting. Specifically, the item was a request that a $600 surplus in Canada Day funds be do-

nated to the Royal Canadian Legion branch – of which Mayor Cameron is a member – in trust to be given to Veterans House Canada. The investigation found that this was not significant enough to be considered a conflict of interest, especially because the amount of money was small, and was not retained by the Legion.

The second concern identified in the report also involves the Legion. On May 28, 2023, Mayor Cameron sent an email directly to municipal staff, asking that they expedite their consideration of funding for a patio extension for the Legion. Specifically, Mayor Cameron wrote “there is a lot of planning and fundraising going into this event by the legion [sic] and it would be nice to have their patio extension considered asap”. The report found Mayor Cameron guilty of a Code of Conduct violation for the May 28 email, since it “constituted an attempt to

influence staff in the decision making process”. The report goes on to state that “Member’s [sic] must be mindful at all times that staff of a Municipality take instruction from Council as a whole and not from any individual member. Member’s [sic] must be cautious of the effect their status and role within the municipality has on staff members and must be mindful not to direct staff to such an extent that it is an attempt to influence or is threatening or intimidating.”

The report recommended a reprimand as a penalty for the Code of Conduct breach.

Merrickville-Wolford Council discussed the report at their April 8 Council meeting. Mayor Cameron passed over the chair role to Deputy Mayor Anne Barr, who explained that Council was tasked with deciding how to make the report public (as required by law), and how to act on the recommendation for a reprimand.

Mayor Cameron spoke first, and provided a statement on the matter. “Upon review, I realize that I overstepped my authority with regard to issues identified by the report, and going forward, will adhere to the Council Code of Conduct as it relates to harassment and influence on staff. I sincerely apologize to those staff who felt they had been unduly exposed to harassment or influence by my request.”

A debate then followed regarding how best to make the report available to the public. Councillor Stephen Ireland stated his confusion about “releasing the report to the public”, since the report is already publicly available. Councillor Margaret Gural addressed this by suggesting that the report could be put on the homepage of the Village website. Councillor Ronnie Maitland suggested that the Mayor’s response should be posted along with the final report, since he has “taken full responsibility

www.northgrenville.ca

What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events

Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings

Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca

Need additional information? Visit us: www.northgrenville.ca

for it”.

Councillor Ireland spoke further, saying he disagrees with the Deputy Mayor’s suggestion that the report needs to be more visible on the website. He then took the opportunity to say that the reference to the first complaint in the report – which was dismissed – could act as an “educational piece”, since the person who made the complaint “ought to have known that that was not a conflict of interest”. Since the identity of the person who made the complaint is confidential, it is not clear if Councillor Ireland’s comments were intended to be directed at someone in particular.

Mayor Cameron clarified that he has no problem

Concerns about 4100 CR 43 dominate Council meeting

by Brandon Mayer

The regularly scheduled Council planning meeting on April 10 was a very long one, lasting nearly 3.5 hours. The meeting opened with Committee of Adjustment items to hear minor variance requests to zoning and planning amendments as a result of ongoing projects. These requests were handled quickly, with no comments from developers or members of the public, resulting in the motions being passed rather quickly.

When the planning part of the meeting began, there were only two properties to discuss. One was for a request to amend the zoning for 2180 River Road from Rural (RU) to Special Agriculture Kennel (SAK) to permit the establishment

of a kennel business. The motion carried.

The meeting then moved into the second property under consideration – 4100 County Road 43, which was the subject of an article in last week’s issue of the Times. Amy Martin, the Municipality’s Director of Planning and Development, preceded her presentation by stating that no decisions would be made at the meeting. Rather, the meeting was designated as an opportunity for neighbours to voice their thoughts and concerns regarding the property. Director Martin then gave a detailed presentation of the site plan, and the intended future uses of the property. The developer would like to turn the property into a tourist hub and wedding venue, which would include “glamping”, watersports, and potentially even a hotel on site.

Others gave presentations regarding the site as well, including consultants, and the applicant who owns the site – Greg Clunie. In his presentation, Greg stressed that “not a day goes by” when those working on the project site at 4100 County Road 43 aren’t spending money at local Kemptville businesses. He also stressed that he expects dozens of North Grenville people to be employed as a result of the project, and promised an ongoing commitment to maintain the natural beauty of the site as the project progresses. Greg also pointed out that the site will be of “top notch” quality, so neighbours don’t have to worry about “riffraff” getting married on site. He also promised that “the site will not be left unattended once we are up and running”, meaning that staff would always be on site to ensure control over noise

and other things that could cause concern.

Residents came up one at a time to register their concerns. Comments were strong and at times, somewhat hostile and accusatory toward the developer and Council. Many concerns touched on a lack of transparency, arguing that the initial plans for the site are not consistent with the current zoning and planning amendment requests.

One resident who came up to the microphone pointed out that she can already hear people on the property from inside her home with the windows closed, and that she has two young children who will never be able to get to sleep if the site plan is approved. Another resident stated that nothing to date has shown that the owner of the property intends to be a good neighbour, while yet another resident prepared a

video to present to Council including drone footage of the site.

It was made clear by one resident – who also provided a written objection – that the neighbours of the site intend to take the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal if Council makes a decision that they do not like. As the meeting went later into the evening, Councillor Kristin Strackerjan made it clear that residents are welcome to speak for their full 10 minute allotment, and that Council wants to hear everyone.

Director Martin was available to answer residents’ questions throughout the meeting, as was Deputy Director Phil Mosher. Greg returned to the microphone to reassure residents that there has not been deception in terms of his company’s original plan for the site. He stressed that the site was not originally intended to be

with the report being made more visible on the website, and he also stated that he is no longer a member of the Legion, thereby ensuring that there will be no further conflict of interest.

There was a disagreement between Council members about whether a reprimand was necessary, with Councillors Maitland and Ireland arguing that the Mayor’s public apology was sufficient, with no further action needed. A consensus was reached that a public declaration that the Mayor breached the Code of Conduct would suffice as a penalty. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor then switched back to their regular seats amicably.

turned into a wedding venue. A resident then asked if Greg would be willing to make any compromises to work with the concerned neighbours, and he answered that it would be very difficult to please everyone.

Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan addressed the members of the public before the close of the meeting, and explained her own experience living near event venues. She commented there are a lot of “hypothetical and imaginary concerns” being tabled, which angered some residents who later sent emails demanding an apology, feeling that the comments were belittling.

“I hear you and share your concerns, but it may not be as bad as you think”, Councillor O’Sullivan told the residents.

The plan for 4100 County Road 43 will be further considered at a later date.

It’s no secret that the harsh winter elements can take a toll on your home. Once the ice thaws and the flowers begin to bloom, consider some simple spring projects to help prepare your home for the warmer weather.

613-851-0954

Adjust your thermostat

Review and adjust your thermostat for springtime. With fluctuating temperatures, check the morning forecast and set it accordingly so you use less energy for heating or cooling while you're away from home. If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of its features to create an efficient cooling schedule. If you don’t already have one, upgrade to a smart thermostat, like the Honeywell Home T9, which allows you to adjust your home temperature from anywhere and set different temperature schedules for various times of the day. You can also set the ideal temperature in the most-used rooms in the house.

Prep your HVAC system.

Preparing your HVAC system for spring is crucial for optimal performance and

energy efficiency. To help get your system ready for the warmer months, change your air filters, as they can accumulate dust and debris over time, and remember to inspect and clean your air vents and ducts for blockages. Consider scheduling a professional maintenance service to help identify and fix any potential problems before they happen.

Upgrade to 2-in-1 protection. Proper smoke and carbon monoxide alarm placement, maintenance and replacement are essential to keeping your home protected. Be sure to install alarms on every level, including the basement, and in every bedroom. Replace the batteries at least every six months, or make maintenance easier with a two-in-one smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, such as the First Alert 10-

4 spring home maintenance musts

Year Battery Combination

Alarm, which eliminates the need for battery replacement and late-night battery chirps for a decade.

Inspect for mould. Mould loves to grow in hard-toreach places, and often in moist, dark environments. Be on the lookout for any discoloured, fuzzy or stained

spots throughout your home and any damp, musty smelling areas. If you find mould growing, clean the patch with a bleach solution or contact a professional to safely remove it. With just a few simple steps, you can help prepare your home for the warm weather

Give your home a healthy spring cleaning this year

The goal of spring cleaning might be to ensure you have a healthy home, but sometimes cleaning can expose you to chemicals and pollutants that could pose a risk to your health. Here are some tips to ensure your next home cleaning is as healthy as possible.

Dust with a wet cloth

Dust and dust mites can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Using a damp cloth or mop to remove dust and dirt wipes it up without spreading it around in the air for you to breathe in. Vacuuming regularly – weekly if you can – can reduce the amount of dust you have to deal with and make your space more comfortable. If possible, choose a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air filter to capture the smallest particles.

Ventilate

Household cleaning products like bleach or toilet cleaners can off-gas chemicals into the air, some of which can cause breathing problems, headaches, and irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. They don’t always have a smell. Open windows and run the exhaust fan when cleaning your bathroom or kitchen with chemical products

to keep your indoor air healthy.

Read and be aware

You should always read the labels on your cleaning supplies to check for any special handling instructions, such as wearing gloves or a mask. Always wash your hands thoroughly when you’re done. Don’t mix cleaning products, either, as some combinations, such as bleach and ammonia, can produce harmful gasses.

Store safely

When you’re done using a particular product, always close the lid securely and put it away promptly. Store your cleaning products locked away out of sight and out of reach of children and pets. Kids and pets can be endlessly curious, and the littlest ones are often putting things in their mouths.

Keep products in their original packaging, even if you just have a little bit left to save. This helps avoid mishaps and ensures you have all the correct details on hand about how to safely use and dispose of them.

Find more information at canada.ca/healthyhome.

Hostas and other shady characters!

by David Dunn of Rideau Woodland Ramble

In the deep dark corners of your garden, you can find some pretty shady characters! Hostas are a staple in this setting, but if you look carefully, you will see some other interesting friends nearby. Hostas are leafy lush perennials that generally thrive in shade to part sun. They are

sought after for their leaves, and their ability to thrive in shade, although, every year there are new introductions whose flowers are extremely fragrant, adding to the mix. These plants come in tiny form, like Hosta Blue Mouse Ears or Hosta Tiny Tears, to gigantic, such as Hosta Blue Umbrellas, Hosta Sum and Substance, or Hosta Old Faithful. They can be used

as edgers, or as large specimens, taking a special place of prominence in the garden.

The most striking feature of Hostas are the dramatic range of colour variation, and leaf type. They range through greens, blues, gold, and variegated forms. The leaves can be puckered, wrinkled, shiny, smooth, heavily veined and so on. Their stems can be green or

red. It is this immense range that drives collectors crazy and starts one on the quest to have all the latest Hostas in your collection. Hostas love rich soil and moist conditions. They do best in shade, but some can tolerate sun if given continuous access to moisture.

One surprising fact is that certain Hostas that can tolerate both sun and shade, look like completely different plants when put in shade or sun. Try Hosta Paul’s Glory, or Hosta June. In each case they do well but look very different, with creams and blues in the shade, and sharper contrast with gold in the sun. It is fun to experiment. In a moist shady setting, Hosta, Ferns and Astilbe are a great combination, along with Heuchera, and various other woodland plants. Combinations of colour and contrasting forms

create real drama in the garden.

Ferns can come in a surprisingly wide array. Ostrich Ferns are huge and lush adding an almost tropical feel to the garden. Japanese Painted ferns add a colour contrast that is sometimes ghostly. The Maidenhair Fern (a native) is refined and lacelike, adding texture, while the Autumn Fern adds a bronze glow. Who knew that ferns were such interesting characters? Heuchera also provide a range of colour and texture. While they flower, they are sought after for the impact of the leaf…adding a range of burgundy and red to the shade…..not the most retiring characters. After you have populated your shady neighbourhood with a cast of Hostas of all sizes, shapes and colours, and then broken up the “clique” with a few rowdy Ferns and showy

Heuchera, you can begin to think of some of the other members of the family that will tolerate shade.

Some grasses, such as Northern Sea Oats, and the Japanese (golden) Hakonechloa will do well in shade, as will some conifers. Add structure and impact with Japanese Yew, or a weeping Hemlock. Topping off the list of shady characters are a range of woodland plants, from trillium to winterberry and more, to add that final touch. The shady characters in our garden are the ones who bring it to life, give it mystery and surprise. So when you turn that dark corner, watch out for the surprising shady characters you may meet… they are all pretty interesting, and certainly all memorable!

The Ramble opens for its 24th season on April 15.

FOR SALE

Yardworks gas lawn mower, 21”, self propelled. Purchased August 2023. Paid $499 (pre tax). Asking $450. Selling due to need for smaller mower. Contact Debbie 613-796-2669.

Two tires 215/55 R17 used one summer. $25.00 each. Call Robert 673-258-7426.

27"Samsung TV Brand new, with wall mount, was put in a spare bedroom and has never been used, asking $100. 613-215-0884

Sony 50" TV complete with stand,surround sound, speakers & dvd player has not been used in years, just collecting dust, asking $400. 613-215-0884

An old Gibbard 9 drawer dresser ,solid ,

heavy wood with mirror, mint condition 70" long asking $150.. 613-2150884

104 yr old rough cut pine boards. Call Fred 613-850-9072

Border collie 3 yrs old free to a good home. Excellent recall, friendly but won't herd sheep. Call 613-447-0207

Golf equipment, men's right handed; including golf bag with 2 wheel cart, plus extras. $200. Call 613-340-2729

Approx 140 vinyl LP records - 50s & 70s music. Make an offer. Call 613-340-2729

Mixed hardwood firewood. $120 per face cord. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

4X4 round bales of hay, stored inside, suitable

for horses. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

Spring & Fall pullover coat with hood. Hand made, medium-tall, rose coloured. $70. email nadfudt@gmail. com

Island Countertop with rounded front; grey speckeled. $50. 22x38x1.25". Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Used kitchen sink; 20x18x7". $15. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Swiffer Wet Jet floor cleaner. $10. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

RV EAZ-Lift hitch kit. 2.25" ball, round spring bars & trailer clips. $225. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Maple dowels for sale. 24"30" long, 1.25" diameter. Some painted, some raw. 2$ each. 1000+ to sell. Better price for large quantities. Contact Jordan 613-2912747

WANTED

Would like to purchase spruce seedling. Jackie 613-821-6161

Looking to harvest cedar trees for cedar hedges from land owner. Joanne (613)799-0958

Looking to rent farmland in North Grenville & surrounding areas. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

Senior male looking for female companion, 60 to 70 years old. Call 613-430-5065

Life in an iron lung is a test of tolerance

Reading a recent tribute to the life of Paul Alexander brought back horrible memories for me. Paul Alexander was only six years of age when he developed polio. The result? He spent the rest of his life enclosed in an iron lung. I too had polio in my final year at the Harvard Medical School. If my fate had been life in an iron lung, I would have begged someone to kill me.

It’s not just memories of polio that trouble me. It’s also some people’s longfestering misinterpretation of my stand on vaccines, including some editors who got my message totally wrong.

The polio vaccine hadn’t been invented when Alexander and I contracted the disease in the 1940s. Given the consequences for Alexander, he could have given in to depression. Rather, what he accomplished by sheer will power is astounding. He studied economics at the University of Texas and then took a law degree from the same university, all while enclosed in an iron lung.

A lifelong friend, Daniel Spinks, attributed Alexander’s successes to his positive attitude about life, sense of humour, and strong feeling about God. Spinks proved his dedication by driving Alexander to court appearances, which must have required bravery too

on both their parts.

Alexander was able to escape from his iron lung for up to six hours at a time by gulping air. But according to Spinks, as he got older, even short escapes were too difficult. Even so, Alexander lived his life telling people they could do great things.

In 1949, during my last year in training at Harvard, I awakened one morning with a devastating headache. Later that day, I was admitted to hospital and a spinal test diagnosed polio. The following morning, I could not move my legs and paralysis of my abdominal muscles meant that I could not sit up. I well remember distinguished professors telling me there was no way to stop the paralysis. I believed that my plans to be a surgeon were finished.

But I got lucky. After several weeks of therapy, I regained the use of my muscles. And I did become a surgeon. It was a close call. Then, vaccines in the early 1950s became available to prevent polio.

I started reading about vaccines as a teenager and how Pasteur and other researchers had developed vaccines to prevent a number of diseases. To be clear, I have never, never been against vaccines. But I have warned readers that on rare occasions, vaccines cause complications. Governments

Early Daffodils

“Pentecostal Dawn”

Daffodil, Bishop’s Mills, April 9, 2024.

have paid compensation to some patients. Even aspirin can trigger problems, not to mention the dangerous side effects of many prescription drugs. But my column was discontinued in a few newspapers as some people screamed lies about my position on vaccines.

Readers will recall the anti-vaccination group of abhorrent protestors who brought chaos to Ottawa for several weeks. I wondered why it was allowed to last so long.

I also wondered how these rowdies would have reacted if a polio epidemic had been raging in Ottawa. What if they had witnessed people being paralyzed by this terrible disease? Would they have condemned these people to living the rest of their lives in an iron lung? Or would they acknowledge that the polio vaccine is the reason why such scenarios are unheard of today?

Vaccines have saved countless lives. They have occasionally brought harm to some as well. There is no perfection with vaccines or many other aspects of medicine. People need to inform themselves and make personal decisions. Everyone should respect the choices that people make.

Reader responses would be highly welcomed.

Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @ docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones.

by Fred Schueler – Fragile Inheritance Natural History

Even before the poet William Wordsworth "wandered lonely as a cloud (into])a host of golden daffodils," these brilliant flowers were a classic sign of spring. In Bishop’s Mills, the average date of their blooming since 2005 is April 17, so this year’s opening on April 9 was more than a week earlier than the average. The only earlier dates were April 4 and March 28 in the extraordinary springs of 2010 and 2012, before polar vortex complications of global warming began to bring cold dry spells into our springs. The latest date was April 28, 2018. This year’s plants were well emerged and in bud before being buried in the snowfalls of April 4.

These are the Great Daffodil, Narcissus pseudonarcissus ssp. major, descendants of a single plant we call the Pentecostal Dawn, because we found it, presumably germinated from a rare fertile seed, behind the Pentecostal Church. There’s lots of hybridization in the genus Narcissus, and taxonomic confusion emblemised by finding the specific epithet is “pseudo” of the generic name. The generic name is used as the English name of the short-trumpeted whitepetalled Narcissus poeticus, which bloom later than the Daffodils.

Wikipedia warns that "daffodils contain the alkaloid poison lycorine, mostly in the bulb, but also in the leaves. Because of this, daffodil bulbs and leaves should never be eaten."

Notes from above ground:

On the road to find out

by David Shanahan

‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ (Luke 10.27).

For some reason, it seems to me that the last part of this famous sentence gets forgotten by Christians. It is also ignored by nonChristians, who have the idea that Christianity means leaving your mind in neutral and denying your brain. It is important to note that it was Jesus himself who added the part about the mind. The Old Testament Scripture simply stated: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (Deuteronomy 6.5). In fact, God has always encouraged us to use our minds to the extent that we can in understanding his ways. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3.15). This is no blind faith: we have a reason for the hope we have, and we should be able to give an answer. Why? Because we think about it, we have grounds for what we believe. Our faith is based in history, on facts and evidence. But not just that. Sceptics say that they will not believe in anything that cannot be scientifically proven. This sounds rational, but is, in fact, untrue and a misuse of science. Can you scientifically prove that your wife or husband loves you? No, you can only point to evidence and then come to conclusions. Most things in life cannot be proven scientifically, in that sense. But we believe them nevertheless. The overwhelming weight of evidence and experience leads us to believe and to trust in certain realities.

The mind is always in-

volved. And we should love God with all our minds too. This does not mean that you have to be some kind of intellectual to be a Christian. Far from it. But it does mean that a Christian is someone with a mind, someone who thinks about what they believe, who contemplates, meditates in the truest sense. Many will say that meditation involves emptying the mind. But Christians are told to meditate on issues and ideas and evidence, and to inform themselves about what it is they believe. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12.2).

In his letters, Paul repeats that he doesn’t want his readers to be uninformed. There are two extremes that need to be avoided in the life of a Christian. One is to deny the mind entirely and “take everything on faith”. But there are reasons for faith, and Scripture says we should know what they are. It is not a leap in the dark, but a growing relationship with Jesus, one in which we gradually learn about him and us, and how we relate to each other. It is a relationship with a real person, not an intellectual exercise, which is the opposite extreme. There are those who have studied, but have never come to a real relationship. They feel that they know all about Jesus, but they don’t know him.

The bottom line is this: God made us to think and reason and come to conclusions. He communicated facts and truth about himself in the Bible - in words that we read and hear and think about. Jesus is called the Word of God. In the Acts of the Apostles, the people of Berea were praised because, after they heard Paul preach-

ing, they “examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17.11). So we read and study the Scriptures with the same mind: find out the facts, meditate on them and come to conclusions. If God did not communicate with us, we could know nothing about him. But he has put the evidence all around us, even in his created universe, for those who choose to look. “...what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualitieshis eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse” (Romans 1.19-20).

Too many critics of Christianity, sceptics, however honest their beliefs, have actually refused to use their minds. They make assumptions based on the word of others, without doing their own thinking, without actually reading the New Testament. Their faith in their assumptions is a blind faith that leads them to ignore the truth around them: that “there are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy”, as Shakespeare said. Instead of dismissing each other’s beliefs out of hand, we should all be willing to think and reason and come to conclusions based on evidence, and not just the word of others. If you are serious about the journey you are on, if you are genuinely on the road to find out, then think about it. “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened” (Luke 11.9-10).

Spring Maintenance Checklist

by Scott Davidson

Spring has arrived, bringing along a list of tasks to tackle. Seasonal maintenance, both indoors and outdoors, is essential to prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. I recently had a customer reach out to me concerning a lack of water. Upon investigation, the customer found that the issue was a blown breaker. I suggested checking it out since breakers typically trip due to an underlying issue. It turned out to be a blown well pump. The well professional replaced the pump and identified a water-logged pressure tank as the culprit behind the premature failure. Regular maintenance of the pressure tank could have caught this issue, potentially saving the $2000.00 well pump replacement cost. By taking a proactive approach to inspecting and maintaining your home, you can save time and money down the line while staying ahead of any potential issues that may arise in the future. Remember, strange sounds in your home should never be ignored as they usually signal an underlying issue.

Below is a checklist to kickstart your journey to getting your house ready to shine for the summer.

Interior:

- Inspect the basement for water damage and check the foundation for cracks. Watch out for signs of pests.

- Ensure the sump pump is functioning properly.

- Flush pressure tank and ensure it has the proper pressure.

- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries if necessary.

- Clean air filters, vents, and replace furnace filters.

- Vacuum refrigerator coils.

- Clean dryer vent and inspect washing machine hoses.

- Test ground fault circuit interrupters in the bathroom, kitchen, outside receptacles, and on the electrical panel.

- Inspect caulking around windows and doors.

- Check window screens and repair as needed.

- Inspect the attic for moisture and mold, and watch for signs of critters.

- Have well water tested

Exterior Checklist:

- Clean out gutters and remove debris. Ensure downspouts direct water away from the house.

- Inspect and repair siding and peeling paint.

- Check A/C connections and clear the area around it.

- Look for loose or damaged roof shingles and repair if necessary.

- Inspect the chimney for damage.

- Check for foundation damage or cracks.

- Ensure trees or branches are not encroaching on the house.

- Inspect outdoor water valves and spouts for leaks.

- Clean outdoor spaces (driveway, deck, porch, etc.) and repair any damage.

Need some help maintaining your home or need reminders for servicing? Scott Davidson, owner of Oxford Home Services, provides monthly plans to ensure your home stays in top-notch condition. Visit www.oxfordhomeservices.ca/ to explore their offerings and keep your home shining all year round!

How your family can get the most out of springtime

For many of us, spring is a wonderful time of the year. The days are getting longer, the weather is nicer, and there are more opportunities to socialize outdoors with friends and neighbours than there are in the coldest months of winter.

Dress for success

As much as kids might be eager to shed their coats, hats and mitts, you want to make sure they are dressed appropriately for the weather. At this time of year, that means lightweight layers that can be shed as the day warms up. Swap out the toques for summer hats to keep the sun off their heads. And liberally apply sunblock to exposed skin. Plan ahead

As exciting as spontaneity

can be, it can also lead to disappointment if events are sold out or the destination you are headed to hasn’t yet opened for the season. Call or check online for popular locations to see if you need to book in advance.

Scan your community newspaper and localized social media feeds for upcoming familyfriendly events in the area.

Get vaccinated

After the pandemic, we’re probably all feeling a little bit of vaccine fatigue. But vaccines are proven health-care tools that save countless people from getting seriously ill each year. They’re even more important for young children whose immune systems aren’t fully developed. Keeping your kids up to date with the provincial

vaccine schedule is an important step in protecting them. Don’t defer treatment

While the kids are out enjoying the springtime weather, they may pick up some bumps, bruises and other injuries. There are now 19 minor illnesses you can have diagnosed and treated at your local pharmacy. These include pink eye, allergies, tick bites, and sprains and strains. So, if your child –or anyone in the family – gets sick, you can get help from your pharmacist.

Learn more about what minor illnesses you can get treatment for at pharmacies at rexall.ca/prescribing.

Paving and construction fraud awareness as warm weather approaches

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to warn community members of a crime trend involving paving and construction fraud. With the warmer months approaching, residents inspecting their property from winter damage are reminded to be alert to repair deals.

Fraudsters are persistent, persuasive and sometimes aggressive. Here are some considerations:

- Examination of these "contractors" often reveals the absence of an official online presence, registration with local chambers of commerce, the Better Business Bureau or similar reputable organizations.

- Fraudsters often contact individuals directly at their homes or via telephone, employing persuasive tactics about the necessity for a service they neither requested nor require. Exercise caution when opening your door to unexpected visitors or solicitors offering items or services.

- Fraudsters use professionally designed flyers and websites that have a legitimate appearance.

- Most contractors will know how much material they need for a job, so if they show up at your door saying they have "leftover" from another job, be cautious.

- If there's no written contract with an up-front quote, and the price changes mid-job due to "unforeseen problems," you're at their mercy.

- Fraudsters target vulnerable people, including seniors, and request cash payments for "today only" deals.

- It's a red flag when a payment is asked for up-front or before the job is completed.

If an offer seems too good to be true, chances are it is and it's someone trying to scam you out of your money.

For additional information on ongoing scams in Canada and to report fraud, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude. ca.

Affordable Housing Workshop Series is calling on innovators, builders and land developers

The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville’s, Community Housing Department is inviting local innovators, builders, and land developers to partner on topic-specific workshops that offer solutions to create more affordable housing units faster in Leeds and Grenville. Share your expertise for a skill or solution you have for increasing affordable housing units related to:

• Rural Housing Solutions:

• Water/sewer services solutions for expediting new affordable development

• Turning empty bedrooms into extra income

• Project Financing Solutions for Affordable Housing Construction

• Alternative building solutions such as:

• Modular construction, 3D printing, mass timber construction, energy efficient builds, and other innovative affordable housing building models

• Missing Middle Housing promoting in-fill development, such as constructingduplexes, triplexes, townhouses and multi-unit buildings.

• Converting commercial spaces into affordable housing units.

• Other affordable housing solutions.

Events may be held in-person with a live-stream option at various locations in Leeds and Grenville, or a webinar. Proponents submitting workshop proposals will be doing so at their own expense. Use this opportunity to promote your affordable housing concept to benefit communities in Leeds and Grenville.

To discuss or submit your workshop proposal, contact Caroline Rigutto, Affordable Housing Coordinator at Caroline.Rigutto@uclg.on.ca or (613) 342-3840 ext. 2327. Submit your workshop proposal by Friday May 11th, 2024.

Where multiple proposals on a similar topic are received, the Counties will assess the workshop proposal and select the proposal that provides the greatest value for attendees.

The Food Corner

By Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

What would we do in Canada without The Egg? Eggs are part of our breakfasts, baking and many other great recipes. One of these recipes is the almighty Quiche. We serve two versions of a freshly baked Quiche at Salamanders each and every day; and since eggs are now known to be a healthy protein and delicious to boot, you might invest in making your own Quiche. You can make it in a variety of flavours, or without meat. Today’s recipe is Ham and Cheese Quiche. By the way, if you want egg recipes galore, consult the Egg Farmers of Canada or the Egg Farmers of Ontario. They know it all and love to help!

Ham and Cheese Quiche

Ingredients

• 1 nine inch pie crust (pick one up at your favourite store or make your own)

• 1 ½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese

• 4 teaspoons of flour

• ½ cup of diced Black Forest ham

• 3 eggs (the Extra Large size)

• 1 cup of milk

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375 F degrees

2. In a bowl, mix the flour and cheese together and sprinkle into your pie crust

3. Place the diced ham on top of the cheese mixture

4. Blend the eggs, milk and mustard in a bowl and pour over the ham and cheese

5. Bake till a fork inserted in the filling comes out clean (45 minutes to an hour)

You can garnish with the parsley and serve piping hot in generous slices. Now obviously, you can substitute cubes of chicken breast or pork tenderloin for the ham. Or, you can use chopped green and red peppers for the vegetarian touch. You can also garnish with chives or chopped green onions if you wish. You can actually become the author of your very own and favourite Quiche recipe. And yes, “real men do eat Quiche..” Particularly with a nicely chilled Riesling at Sunday brunch. Yum!

Send me a note on your creation at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

COMMUNITY EVENTS events@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

RECURRING EVENTS

Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families.

PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@gmail.com

Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome

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

NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

KLUB 67 EUCHRE Join us for fun, social euchre games taking place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday monthly at 1pm, September to May. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone welcome, $5. To play, cash prizes.

Friendship Lunch every Friday at St. Johns United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. The meal begins at 11:30 and is free of charge. A good will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.

Drawing from Life - Portrait and figure drawing clothed models. Fridays, 4pm to 7pm, St. John's United Church 400 Prescott Street. Artists at all levels are welcome. Drop in fee $15. For information contact gowjb5@gmail.com

Spencerville Agricultural Society planning general meetings. If you are interested in joining our committee, please email info@spencervillefair.ca to receive all of the meeting details. Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12, Oct 21, Nov 11. The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville Ontario

EUCHRE on Tuesday, April 30 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, contact debiar@ymail.com.

BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, April 23 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, contact debiar@ymail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

St Michael Spring Craft Show, Saturday April 27. (:30 - 3:30. Admission: $2 or Canned Food Donation

The North Grenville Concert Choir proudly presents “Sacred Sounds”. Friday, May 10th, 7:00pm at Winchester United Church, Saturday, May 11th, 7:00pm and Sunday, May 12th, 3:00pm at St. James Anglican Church, Kemptville. Tickets $20 available at Brewed Awakenings, Kemptville and online at: https://aftontickets.com/ngcc

Info: https://northgrenvilleconcertchoir.com/ WIZARD CARD GAME TOURNAMENT on Sunday, May 19 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

EUCHRE FUNDRAISER FOR THE KEMPTVILLE DISTRICT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION in support of the CT Scanner Campaign. On Saturday, June 22 at Pierce's Corners, aka the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m. $10 per player.Pre-register by contacting Debi at 613-868-7600 before 8 p.m. or send an email to debiar@ymail.com.

2024 NORTH AMERICAN WIZARD TOURNAMENT on Sunday, July 14. Check-in starts at 12:30 p.m. At Pierce's Corners, aka the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. $5 per player.Advanced registration is required. For information, contact debiar@ymail.com.

KD Hospital

Andre Rancourt andrerancourt16@gmail.com

SKBP Venturers skbp.venturers@gmail.com

Girl Guides theleangs@gmail.com

ARTS: NG Art Challenge

jayne.couch@yahoo.com

NG Art Guild

northgrenvilleartsguild@gmail.com

Beth Donovan Hospice

amy.tibben@bethdonovanhospice.ca

Oxford Mills Community Association susannelarner@gmail.com

Kemptville Youth Centre brucewehlau@hotmail.com

Friend of the NG Library blrousseau26@gmail.com

NG Historical Society karenrepta@gmail.com

Rotary corabeking54@gmail.com

Christian Reformed Church sidypma@gmail.com

United Church gowjb5@gmail.com

House of Lazarus cashby@houseoflazarus.com

Youth Alliance: ng.rainbowyouth@gmail.com

Community Senior Centre shalomsmallhomeskemptville.org

The NG Library sjones@ngpl.ca

Friends Of the Forestry Centre ldpaibomesai@gmail.com

Kemptville & District Community Assn. wdembleton@gmail.com

BIA

shelleybmitchell@gmail.com

Pride chair@ngpride.ca

Lions Club mikeamirault@hotmail.com

Knights phil.seymour@bell.net

Leeds Grenville Big Brothers Big Sisters

Vanessa.martin@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

Canadian Guide Dog Assoc Info@guidedogs.ca

Jags

kemptvillejags@gmail.com

Pentacostal Church kohls.s.m@gmail.com

United way Ed@uwlg.org

Welcome as Agricultural Area Review Continues

The Agricultural Area Review (AAR) has not been completed, and there have been no final decisions made as part of this process.

The public engagement phase of the process remains ongoing, and feedback from the landowners and the community is still welcome as we continue to work with the study.

Public engagement is key to this process, and we are looking to build on the communications we had sent to over 2,000 landowners who may be impacted by the process and were invited to provide feedback.

As this process remains ongoing, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville will continue to receive feedback, update its analysis and inform the community of any and all related items as they relate to the AAR process.

For more information regarding the ongoing AAR, contact Elaine Mallory, Planner II, at 613-342 3840 ext. 2422, or email Elaine.Mallory@uclg.on.ca or Geoff Clarke, County Clerk - Interim at 613 342 3840 ext. 2456, or email Geoff.Clarke@uclg.on.ca.

Local food system

by Dana Douglas, MScFN, RD, LG&L District Health Unit

The “food system” refers to everything and everybody that’s involved in growing, processing, acquiring, transporting, distributing, selling and disposing of food. One example of how the food system fits within our communities is through our local schools. When we think of all the pieces involved in the food system, we can see how food system thinking can be used for school curriculum in areas such as math, science, social science and reading. Local food can be considered in school fundraising efforts or hot meal programs. Another example is with faith based communities and social service clubs – they could use local food for fundraising and for the food used in social events. Our municipalities play an important role in supporting the local food system. For example, local governments can:

• value, protect and enhance agricultural land and natural environments,

• prioritize production, processing, storage and distribution of locally produced food,

• protect safe and accessible surface and underground water resources,

• ensure that food waste is reduced and/or reused (e.g., composting), and

• support educational opportunities within the community for all ages to learn how to grow, purchase, cook and preserve healthy food. For more information and to learn about our local food system, visit foodcoreLGL.ca.

Farmers pausing growth, but confident in future outlooks, survey says

by Paul Vickers, Vice President, OFA

The pressures of inflation, high interest rates, tax increases and global conflicts are having an impact on Ontario’s farmers.

That’s according to a new survey just released by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), where the majority of respondents indicated that they were taking a pause on expansion projects, business growth, new technology investments, and land and equipment purchases.

Instead, they’re opting to maintain the status quo, with 68% keeping their business the same in 2023 and almost 71% intending to do the same for 2024.

At the same time, 62% have some degree of confidence in the outlook for Ontario’s farm sector in 2024 and 78.5% are somewhat to extremely confident in the outlook for their own farm business this year.

This Farm Business Confidence survey was open to all OFA members in December of last year, with participants submitting responses online.

I’m a dairy farmer near Meaford in the

Georgian Bay area. I’m also a member of the OFA’s Board of directors, currently holding one of our two Vice President positions, and surveys like this are extremely valuable to us as Board members.

What’s important in my area of Grey County may be different from what is impacting farmers in Lambton or Renfrew counties, for example. Similarly, a greenhouse grower in an export-focused industry may have different challenges than a poultry producer in a sector that is focused on our domestic markets.

The OFA is a memberdriven organization and it’s our job to set policy priorities, advocate on behalf of our members and make sure that we take action on the issues that matter to them.

We regularly communicate with our members through meetings at the county and regional levels, newsletters, social media, trade shows and more, but surveys like this give us additional insights into what is on the minds of our members.

The results can confirm, for example, whether we’re on the right path with respect to the OFA’s

advocacy priorities or if there are new issues that also need our attention.

In this case, respondents overall told us very clearly that reducing farm taxes was the number one policy priority they felt would be helpful to their farm business or their sector. Province-wide, 76% identified tax burden as the top policy priority, and it was a top three concern across every geography and income range.

This was followed by supporting farmers in dealing with high and continually rising energy costs, encouraging Ontarians to buy local food, which was particularly important to farmers in southern Ontario, and improving rural health care.

In Northern Ontario, compensation for crop damage by wildlife, which is a significant problem in the region, was the third most identified policy priority.

In the coming year, farmers in southern and eastern Ontario believe that high input costs, high interest rates and the cost to service debt, and the growing tax burden on farms will pose the biggest challenges for their farm businesses. In northern Ontario, rising insur-

May is MS Awareness Month

by Brandon Mayer

Did you know that Canada has one of the highest rates of Multiple Sclerosis in the world, with approximately 90,000 people diagnosed?

Next month is MS Awareness Month in Canada. Since the first step in making a difference is learning about the disease itself, MS Canada shares the following information about MS on its website:

“MS is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Since that includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve, MS can affect vision, memory, balance and mobility. It is considered an episodic disability meaning that the severity and duration of illness and disability can vary and are often followed by periods of wellness. It can also be progressive.

“The disease attacks myelin, the protective covering of the nerves, causing inflammation and often damaging the myelin. Myelin is necessary for the transmission of nerve impulses through nerve fibres. If damage to myelin is slight, nerve impulses travel with minor interruptions; however, if damage is substantial and if scar tissue replaces the myelin, nerve impulses may be completely disrupted, and the nerve fibres themselves can be damaged.

ance costs ranked in third spot behind input costs and interest rates.

These results very closely mirror OFA’s current advocacy priorities.

We’ve been pushing for easing of the federal carbon tax burden on food production. We’ve been urging the Province to make new or continued investments in affordable energy, high speed internet, transportation infrastructure and rural healthcare.

And we’ve been encouraging the provincial government to support local food through actions like addressing chronic labour shortages in the sector and increasing support for the Risk Management Program.

We’ll be addressing these issues and others that impact Ontario’s ability to grow food, fuel, fibre and flowers later this month too when we head to Queens Park to meet with elected officials from all parties at our annual advocacy day.

“MS is unpredictable and may cause symptoms such as extreme fatigue, lack of coordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, bladder problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes. Its effects can be physical, emotional and financial. Currently there is no cure, but each day researchers are learning more about what causes MS and are zeroing in on ways to prevent it.”

The majority of MS diagnoses occur between the ages of 20 and 49, though children and older people can be diagnosed as well. The overarching message of MS Canada is that no one has to face MS alone. The organization provides many resources for those living with the disease, and also helps fund research to find a cure.

MS Canada stresses that any action – including participating in a fundraising event, volunteering, or simply learning more about MS and MS research – can make an impact for Canadians who live with the disease. A donation link can be found at the top of the MS Canada webpage at mscanada. ca, and those seeking support can visit https://mscanada.ca/ find-support-multiple-sclerosis for a list of resources.

Home Canning

by Dana Douglas, MScFN, RD, LG&L District Health Unit

Home canning is a great way to preserve, but requires special attention and safe techniques to avoid food poisoning. Canning preserves food by removing air, preventing growth of bacteria, molds and yeasts, destroying enzymes, and creating a tight seal (keeps liquids in, and air and bacteria out).

Home canning requires knowledge of which foods are high or low in acid. Each food requires different canning methods to keep them safe. Use high quality jars and new lids every time. Always use tested recipes when canning, and do not change the ingredients and methods. Tested recipes have the right amount of acid and moisture to keep your foods safe. Even small changes can affect the quality and safety.

It is important to know that some home canning practices have changed over time as we learn more about food science. For example, open-kettle canning and the processing of freshly filled jars in conventional ovens, microwave ovens and dishwashers SHOULD NOT be used because these practices do not prevent all risks of spoilage and harmful bacteria.

Look for more information in the Food Safety at Home section at healthunit.org and the home canning safety pages at Canada.ca.

Hey there, budding artists of North Grenville! As Mother's Day draws near, we're on the hunt for some creative talent to feature in our Mother's Day issue of The North Dundas Times. Here's your chance to shine!

Get your crayons, markers, or paints ready and unleash your imagination on our Mother's Day colouring page.

Once you've finished your masterpiece, snap a photo and send it to production@ngtimes.ca.

Deadline for submissions is April 24.

Eclipse dazzles the region

by Brandon Mayer

On April 8, a total solar eclipse peaked across the skies of our local area, drawing crowds of people to scenic places where they enjoyed an event which, for most, will be once in a lifetime. The eclipse’s totality phase could be seen with the naked eye for those who made the drive as little as a few kilometres south, with many people gathering along the shores of the St. Lawrence River to experience a double dose of magnificent scenery.

While many people from the area undoubtedly remember experiencing solar eclipses before, most would have only seen “partial” eclipses prior to April 8. Total solar eclipses occur somewhere on Earth every 18 months, but about 70% of these occur over the ocean, where it is not possible to see them (except from a boat).

Eclipses only appear in the same spot on Earth once every 360-410 years on average, and this means that no one alive has ever seen

an eclipse in the same spot as the one that occurred last week, nor will anyone alive today ever see one there again. To think of what the region must have looked like the last time a total solar eclipse could be viewed here with the naked eye is a fascinating concept. It’s perhaps even more fascinating to consider what the civilization surrounding the shores of the St. Lawrence River will look like the next time people are eagerly staring up and waiting for their once in a lifetime view.

Traffic on local roads was backed up in certain spots and at certain times as people travelled to and from other parts of Ontario and Quebec – including Ottawa and Gatineau – toward the southern edge of the region to see the totality phase with the best possible view. At gatherings throughout the area, amazed exclamations of “wow” could be heard as the sun disappeared behind the moon. Darkness fell in the middle of the afternoon for about 3 minutes, confusing birds and causing them to erupt into song. It didn’t take long for the sun to peak out once again, and those with special eclipse viewing glasses got to see the moon moving to and from the sun. What a view! Anyone who missed viewing the eclipse can find countless photos and videos through a quick internet search.

Photos of crowds who travelled to gathering spots to view the April 8 total solar eclipse. Photos from Crysler’s Farm at Upper Canada Village, and from the northern edge of the Town of Iroquois.