ND Times Issue 4 2022 February 23

One-way streets causing confusion in Winchester

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two streets in Winchester, which were changed to allow only one-way direction of travel last summer, are still causing much confusion for drivers. In the summer of 2021, Louise St S, between Clarence St and York St, was changed to a one-way, accommodating northbound traffic only; and York St, between St. Lawrence St and Louise St S, was changed to a one-way for cars travelling west toward the hospital.

These changes were made as part of the ongoing construction project to add a new child care centre addition to Winchester Public School. The streets were reduced to one lane to create parent parking for pick up and drop off at the child care centre, which is not expected to be

completed until later this year, at the earliest.

Now, approximately eight months after the changes to the two streets, the problem of drivers travelling the wrong way does not seem to be getting any better. Local residents, parents, and school staff are noticing, on average, several cars per day violating the one-way rule on the streets, particular by drivers who are leaving the hospital parking lot. When leaving the main parking lot entrance of the hospital, travelling straight through the intersection results in travelling the wrong way on York St.

What causes such persistent driver rule-breaking? Inattention and habituation are likely to be contributing factors. Locals become accustomed to travelling the same routes through town, and adapting to infrastructure

changes can be a challenge when such changes go against deeply ingrained habits. Even for out-of-town drivers visiting the hospital, the habit of going straight onto York St from the parking lot exit is one that can be hard to break, despite the signage in place. Perhaps another factor is the signage itself. One-way travel signs have yet to be put up on the streets, although drivers exiting the hospital parking lot are greeted with two large do-not-enter signs where York St meets Louise St S. Pavement markings also clearly indicate the permitted direction of travel, and the curbs at the end of each street are constructed to only leave enough roadway for one vehicle at a time. Some residents have criticized the fact that there is still a stop sign in place at St. Lawrence St for cars travelling eastbound

on York St, even though cars are not permitted to travel eastbound on that stretch of York St.

However, the purpose of the stop sign is likely an ironic one – it is to prevent collisions at York St. and St. Lawrence St due to the countless drivers who violate the one-way ordinance on York St. Also potentially confusing, is that a newly-constructed crosswalk on York St has signage in place facing drivers travelling eastbound, despite the fact that eastbound travel is not permitted.

Whatever the various causes of Winchester’s new “one-way travel problem,” many North Dundas locals are undoubtedly wishing for an end soon, before someone gets hurt.

York St, looking east. Two do-not-enter signs warn drivers not to proceed straight, though many still do

Local woman selling homemade masks for charity

ployees. This was concerning, because if an outbreak were to have occurred at the plant, causing the plant to shutdown, many local dairy farmers would have had no place to bring their milk.

Sending in several hundred masks for the Lactalis workers is, therefore, how the initiative started. In total, Kim has made about 1,500 masks to date. Some people want custom ordered masks, and Kim is happy to make those as well. She keeps the process local by incorporating businesses, such as Samantha’s Emporium, to provide a quick turnaround time. She also has plenty of materials on hand, as she is involved in other hobbies and charitable projects as well.

Baldwin's Birds

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Kim Link is no stranger to hard work – she is a retired Winchester farmer, mother and grandmother, with a charitable spirit. For over a year, she has been making masks to sell at the Double Beauty salon in Winchester, and donating all the proceeds to local food banks, including the Salvation Army, House of Lazarus in South Mountain, and

the Community Food Share in Winchester. Donations were also made to Big Sky Ranch in North Grenville. Kim has raised about $3,000 so far, having sold about 550 of her homemade masks.

The Times reached out to Kim for insights on what inspired such a selfless act of giving. She explained that when the pandemic started, the local Lactalis plant could not acquire masks fast enough to supply all of their em-

Those wishing to support the initiative by purchasing a mask can do so at the Double Beauty salon. Basic masks cost $5, while other masks, such as custom ordered masks, cost more. All of the proceeds go straight to the local food banks and other charities, and Kim is happy to donate the materials and the time. “Yes it’s time consuming, but we needed something to do!” she joked. The Double Beauty salon is located on Main St E in Winchester.

When is an "Upside Down" Bird - Not!?

The extremely cold weather has lasted for too long now, and caused a few birds to rethink their feeding procedures, whilst competing for the various food supplies that are on offer by "yours truly", and many of yourselves. We are used to seeing a couple of White-breasted Nuthatches, our "Upside-down" birds, on our peanut feeders, usually just one at a time. But we have seen two at the same time on two of our three separate hanging feeders (one Nyjer seed and two peanuts). Caught by surprise, I had to take a "double look" the other day, when a different bird was there upside down on a peanut feeder.

I grabbed the camera and zoomed in time to see that my unknown "Upside-down" bird was, in fact, a Goldfinch, who had tired of competing with her fellows on the Nyjer seed and was trying to find some luck on the peanuts. Not really having the beak to tackle a full sized peanut, I am assuming that she was finding some of the bits off the peanuts dropped down inside the feeder, by either the Nuthatches or the Woodpeckers. She spent a bit of time imitating the Nuthatch, but has since returned to joining the general melee with her peers on the Nyjer seed! Ah, such is a bird's life!

Stay safe and well, Cheers,

John Baldwin

Ontario to cancel vaccine passport system

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The provincial government announced last week that it would be putting an end to the vaccine passport system, as well as capacity restrictions for all indoor settings, beginning on March 1. Mandatory vaccination requirements will therefore be lifted for all settings, though it is reported that hospitals and long term care facilities will keep the requirements to protect the most vulnerable. The vaccine passport system limits who can and cannot engage in certain activities deemed “non-essential”, such as dining indoors at a restaurant.

A press release sent to the Times quotes Ontario Premier Doug Ford as saying, “Given how well Ontario has done in the Omicron wave, we are able to fast track our reopening plan. This is great news, and a sign of just how far we've come together in our fight against the virus. While we aren’t out of the woods just yet, we are moving in the right direction.”

Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Christine Elliott, added, “Thanks to the province’s high vaccination rates and the continued sacrifices of Ontarians, we are now in a position where we can move forward in our plan earlier than anticipated. With hospitalizations and

ICU admissions continuing to decline, we are committed to maintaining a gradual and cautious approach to protect our hospital capacity and ensure patients can access the care they need when they need it.”

The changes will be made gradually, with the first round of loosened restrictions having already occurred on February 17. On that date, social gathering limits increased to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors. Seating capacity at many non-essential venues also increased to 50%, and capacity restrictions were lifted entirely for businesses which continue to require proof of vaccination until the mandate is lifted on March

1. Other changes include the gradual resumption of nonurgent and non-emergent surgeries, which began in Ontario on February 10, and the continued distribution of free rapid antigen tests in partnership with various retailers in the province.

The elimination of the vaccine passport system will take effect on March 1, though individual businesses can choose to continue requiring proof of vaccination. Indoor capacity limits will also be lifted for all businesses which still have them by this date. Mask requirements for indoor public settings will remain in place at this time, although Ford’s government has indicated that a time-

line should be released in the coming weeks for when mask requirements will end. Despite speculation, Ford has strongly denied that the decision to end the vaccine passport system has anything to do with the recent trucker convoy protest movement. He has insisted that talks of lifting the passport system started well before the protest was in motion.

For more information, Ontario’s news release can be accessed at: news.ontario.ca/ en/release/1001600/ontariomoving-to-next-phase-ofreopening-on-february-17.

Mask maker, Kim Link

A Goldfinch pretending to be a Nuthatch

Guidance on the use of Rapid Tests

The Eastern Ontario Heath Unit (EOHU) is providing Guidance on the Use of Rapid Antigen Tests as Ontarians access free rapid testing kits for at-home use. While testing supports the province's cautious easing of public health measures, vaccination remains the best way for individuals to protect themselves, our communities and health care system capacity.

When is it recommended to use a Rapid Antigen Test?

Rapid antigen tests are recommended for people with symptoms. If you are symptomatic:

- A positive rapid antigen test is highly indicative that you have COVID-19, and

you and your household are required to self-isolate, in accordance with guidance.

A confirmatory PCR test or any follow-up testing is not necessary after a positive rapid antigen test. The individual should also reach non-household contacts by providing them with the link to Ontario.ca/exposed.

- A negative rapid antigen test does not rule out COVID-19. Repeat the test 24-48 hours later. If two consecutive rapid antigen tests, separated by 24-48 hours, are both negative, it is less likely that you are infected with COVID-19, and you are advised to self-isolate until symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours

if gastrointestinal symptoms).

- Rapid antigen tests are also used for “test-to-work” purposes to meet critical workforce needs in the highest risk settings only.

Rapid antigen tests are not recommended for one-off testing (e.g., before a social gathering) by people who are asymptomatic and without known exposure to someone with COVID-19 as a negative result could be a false negative.

Combined Oral-Nasal Samples:

Rapid antigen tests are less sensitive for the Omicron variant compared to the Delta variant in nasal samples, especially in the first 1-2 days after infection. However, the

Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table recommends rapid antigen tests can more reliably detect infectious cases of the Omicron variant in combined oral-nasal samples.

Start by reading the instructions that come with your kit. Follow the additional step by step instructions in the attached graphic, that include swabbing both cheeks, followed by the back of the tongue or throat, and then both nostrils.

For more information about what to do If You Have Symptoms or Have Been Exposed, check out the EOHU’s website at www.EOHU.ca/ coronavirus.

OLG and employees support local United Way

United Way Centraide

Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry is receiving a donation of $1,220.83 from OLG and its employees. OLG is a crown agency that contributes to a better Ontario by delivering great entertainment experiences for our customers. Acting in a socially responsible way, OLG conducts and manages land-based gaming facilities; the sale of province-wide lottery games; Internet gaming; and the delivery of bingo and other electronic gaming products at Charitable Gaming Centres.

OLG and its employees are contributing close to $120,000 to support the important work of the United Way in communities across Ontario. As part of its support for the United Way, OLG launched a new virtual promotion in July 2021 called “Collecting for the Community”, which included a commit-

Dundas Federation of Agriculture 2022 AGM

by Erin Chambers

The Dundas Federation of Agriculture will be hosting this year's Annual General Meeting on March 4 at 10 am. The meeting will be held in-person on 13805 County Road 13 in Morewood compliant with COVID-19 regulations and guidelines.

The DFA would be pleased to invite you to attend the AGM, listen to the guest speakers, enjoy refreshments and chat with friends and neighbours.

Kindly RSVP for lunch. Details are to follow and the agenda will be posted on our website closer to the date.

ment by OLG of $50,000 in funds for United Ways across Ontario.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led OLG to evolve its local partnerships in order to continue to support and add value to the festivals and events taking place in communities across Ontario. ‘Collecting for the Community’ was intended to replicate the same fun and engaging experience that was offered at on-site activations at OLG sponsored events prior to the pandemic.

From July 19, 2021 to January 3, 2022, players 18 years and older who visited CollectingfortheCommunity.ca could play the free activity, and through their participation, could secure additional funding for their local United Way and benefit their community.

As part of the promotion, each of the 27 United Ways in Ontario is guaranteed to receive $1,000,

but player participation in the ‘Collecting for the Community’ promotion increases the local contribution.

“Giving back is at the heart of all we do and we are proud of the role we play in making Ontario stronger,” said Duncan Hannay, OLG’s President and CEO. “OLG and our employees have a long, meaningful history with the United Way in Ontario. It is an important community partner that supports vulnerable populations through numerous charities and community assistance programs.”

In addition to the $50,000 contributed through the ‘Collecting for the Community’ promotion, OLG’s employee-driven 2021 United Way fundraising campaign raised close to $70,000.

For more than three decades, OLG employees have been dedicating their time and money to an an-

nual fundraising effort to support the United Way. The most recent campaign, which ran through November 2021, was a big success with OLG employees raising more than double their original fundraising goal.

“As the pandemic continues to impact communities across Ontario, our friends and neighbours facing challenges – and the frontline community workers working so hard to serve them – need our support like never before,” said Daniele Zanotti, United Way Greater Toronto President and CEO.

“Thank you to OLG corporate and staff for once again standing with community and demonstrating that we truly are in this together.”

MP Duncan opposes use of Emergencies Act

Local Member of Parliament for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry Eric Duncan issued the following statement:

“This week, the Prime Minister invoked the Emergencies Act, declaring a public order emergency. It is unfortunate that the situation has intensified to this stage. I am very frustrated at the level of anger and tension in our country right now. The actions taken, or lack thereof, by the Prime Minister over the past few weeks has made the situation worse.

I have always supported Canadians right to peaceful protest, it is a fundamental right in a democracy and that must be upheld. However, I agree that the blockades of roads, critical infrastructure and obstruction of our borders should not be permitted. The precedence to continue to allow those continued actions are not good for our political discourse.

Unfortunately, the Prime Minister has made no efforts to de-escalate the situation before taking the unprecedented step of imposing powers of the Emergencies Act. The Emergencies Act was not needed to settle the rail blockades of 2020, the Oka crisis, the crisis at Caledonia, September 11, the COVID-19 pandemic or any other dispute in Canadian history.

It is also important to note that the illegal blockades at the Ambassador Bridge and the Coutts Port of Entry in Alberta occurred prior to the Emergencies Act being invoked and have been addressed without federal help. I have confidence that law enforcement can use their existing resources to address the situation in Ottawa.

New SDSG PC candidate to be selected

Local Ontario PC members in Stormont-DundasSouth Glengarry will select their new candidate for the upcoming June provincial election on Saturday, March 26. The date was announced by the local Nomination Committee last week and ensures that candidates have several weeks remaining to sign up new members.

Member of Provincial Parliament and Progressive Conservative candidate, Jim McDonell, has announced that he will

not seek re-election in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. To date, two candidates have been formally approved to seek the nomination: Andrew Guindon and Nolan Quinn.

“We are very proud that two great community leaders have stepped forward to seek the PC nomination locally,” said local Nomination Committee Chair, Eric Duncan. “We encourage any supporters who are interested in having a say in our next PC candidate - and our next MPP - to purchase

a membership and have their say by casting their vote.”

Those interested in joining the Ontario PC Party to have a vote in the in-person balloting process must purchase their membership at www.OntarioPC.ca/join by Saturday, March 5, at 11:59 pm. Paper forms are available from the candidate’s teams if needed, but are due to Party Headquarters in Toronto on Friday, March 4, at 4:30 pm. Current members who are eligible to vote will be notified of the specific

voting times and locations, and the required identification to provide at the polling site, for the Saturday, March 26 vote. For members to confirm that their membership is current, they can contact 613-930-5042.

The invocation of this Act sets a dangerous precedent. As such, I will be voting against the Emergencies Act, along with my Conservative colleagues. I want to get these blockades ended. I want our country to reopen and get back to normal. Those do not have to be two opposing goals. It is beyond frustrating that we find ourselves at this point when, thankfully, data and public health advice is suggesting we can get back to normal by learning to live with COVID and not living in fear.”

Peace will come

by David Shanahan

There was a really strange coincidence on Friday. As police moved against the protestors in Ottawa, I spent the day watching people being interviewed in public to fill the vacant position on the North Grenville municipal council. As some mourned what they felt was the death of Canadian democracy on the streets of the capital, here in our community we could see a powerful example of democracy in action. So, which was more reflective of the state of Canada today?

In this issue, you’ll find some deeply heartfelt letters and articles trying to work through what we’ve been seeing these last few weeks. What should have been done about the occupation of Ottawa that wasn’t done? Did we, as some of the occupiers claim, stray over the line into dictatorial conduct by government and police? Or did those powers wait too long to act, and allow anarchy to flourish

in front of the Parliament of Canada?

As the occupation ends (and, yes, I do think it was an occupation, the facts are clear), maybe we can turn our attention to answering those questions, and others like them. There was a certain sector of Canadian society that approved of what the protesters did, supported them with money, food, fuel, and their presence on the streets and bridges. At the same time, as one letter-writer in this paper points out, the organisers of the protest were not the patriotic, freedom-loving heroes they were claiming to be.

It does seem to me that many people were conned, to put it bluntly, by claims of the organisers that they were fighting for freedom after civil rights had been denied. I wrote before about how easily such agitators can manipulate honest men and women into taking part in what is much more than what they think it to be. The news that Canadian Intelligence agencies had

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, I feel sick to my stomach. I have been watching the debacle in downtown Ottawa, not to mention elsewhere in Canada. I am an immigrant to this country, I chose to come here and start a family with my husband in the early 1980's. We have always been very grateful for the opportunities afforded us and have enjoyed the fruits of our labours. We chose to retire to the Ottawa area (North Grenville) and feel as though we have joined a caring community.

However, I am very unsettled, after watching the shambles that has occurred over the last three weeks in the capital city of my chosen promised land. I wonder what country I am part of? I do not want to raise the Maple Leaf flag this year, it will remind me of the horrid behaviour of the "Truckers" who flew the flag in protest at the supposed lack of freedom given to Canadians. While I am well aware that a certain type of person from another country has been egging

warned the government as far back as late December about who were really planning the convoy, and what their intentions were, throws a new light on the affair.

Yes, it is easy for people to deny the facts and accuse newspapers like ours of being in some nasty alliance with the powers that be to spread false narratives and hide the truth. It may sound flippant to say, but if we only had such power! Conspiracies are rampant these days, and too many people have lost faith in traditional sources of information. That is a far bigger threat to our democracy than police clearing Wellington Street of those who have tried to shut down our society, economy, even our government.

It is well understood, and should have been taken into account by authorities in Ottawa, that protests are always infiltrated by those with more extreme views and intentions, and that is certainly the case with the occupation. Intelligence briefings to government were clear: “While the organizers have declared

that this is an act of peaceful protest, some ideologically motivated violent extremism followers in Canada have seized upon this rally to advocate for their own ideological objectives. Extremists and other individuals supporting Covid-19 conspiracy theories and violent anti-authority/ anti-government views have expressed intent to participate in the convoy and to attend the accompanying protest in Ottawa.”

But the legacy remains, and will affect us for some time to come. Some have been disillusioned by what Canadians have imposed on one another, while others are angered about how the occupation was broken up. Was the Emergency legislation really needed? Should the police have acted sooner, or even prevented the trucks from getting to Wellington Street? How sympathetic were the police to the protestors, and is that why they allowed so much illegality to continue without interruption?

These are not comforting thoughts, and they have raised

questions about how Canadians have traditionally seen each other. Maybe, as one expert said, “Was the problem that [the Ottawa police] didn’t have the information? Or was the problem that they just don’t take white supremacy seriously?”

And while all that was taking place in Ottawa, the people of North Grenville saw candidates for council openly interviewed, arguing their case for getting the job. Nine candidates, men and women from our community, willing to be interviewed, questioned, judged by their fellow citizens. This was a democratic act that should give us hope. Canada is not a perfect country (ask the Indigenous people about that), but it is more than what we’ve seen in the past month.

Living through the pandemic for so long, hearing so many contradictory theories and solutions, open to any nutcase with a theory, all of this has laid the groundwork for the occupation of Ottawa. There was no way that it could be ended without some-

how confirming in a twisted way the theory that a dictatorship had been imposed on us. But Parliament, like the NG Council, and the North Dundas Council, and the Merrickville-Wolford council, and all 444 municipal councils in Ontario, will continue to operate, legislate, run the nation and our communities in the way it seems best to them. And in June and October we, the citizens of this province and place, will exercise our democratic right to vote and have a say in who takes the place of the current holders of office. We will moan, and rightly, the fact that the wrong people get elected sometimes. And we will celebrate when the right people do succeed. And we will disagree about which is which. But that is democracy, and it is, in spite of appearances and counter-claims, alive and well in Canada. In the words of Tom Paxton: Peace will come, and let it begin with me.

these "Freedom Fighters" on with financial and other support, I still cannot quite rid myself of the feeling that I have been let down by the very country I have so long revered.

Why was the protest allowed in the first place? As a veteran of protests on the Hill, I know the rules governing them; meet on Parliament Hill, maybe speak to some MP's who support us, march around a route previously agreed with the police, return to the Hill and disperse. Always on foot, and securely policed. I do not perceive this as having happened this time? Why were the trucks allowed so close to Parliament Hill? Wasn't it a security risk?

I remember when Prince Charles visited the Capital of Canada on 1st July. The crowds that usually thronged the Hill were kept in tightly controlled lines (in very hot sunshine) in case of a security breach.

I guess a lot of huge trucks parked for three weeks right in front of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa with their engines running and

horns blaring is really quite safe!

To say I am disgusted with the Ontario and Canadian Governments is an understatement. How could this be allowed to happen? It has made world headlines, and I suspect people reading the news were secretly pleased it wasn't their country undergoing this intense scrutiny.

How do I get my confidence back in this, up till now, wonderful country?

Patricia Habberjam

Dear Editor, I just finished reading your editorial piece of the February 16, issue of The North Grenville Times. I think it explains my sentiments exactly. Who are these people protesting in downtown Ottawa and other locations of this great, FREE SPEECH, Canada?

Firstly, I am embarrassed and saddened to see how our national flag is being touted about, worn as capes, and just plan desecrated to my mind.

Then these people shouting "FREEDOM". I would like to know what they think freedom is! There is NO FREEDOM without RESPONSIBILITY. Just as we wouldn't dream of leaving young children unsupervised all day, why there are rules as to when a person can have the responsibility to get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Why children do not cast a political vote until a certain age......you get the picture.

However, what is happening in some cities across this great nation is so very disturbing. I was not alive when Hitler and his ilk came into power; however, I have read enough about the despicable, cruel behaviour. So, what is going on right now because people do not want to be vaccinated against COVID is very scary. If a person does not want to get vaccinated against COVID, that is their choice. However, with every choice we make, there are responsibilities and consequences.

Frustrated , Josephine Herman

Health Card renewal period extended

The Ontario government is extending the requirement to renew health cards until September 30, 2022.

"In response to the pandemic, our government extended the renewal requirements for Ontario health cards," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. "While the majority of Ontarians have continued to renew their documents throughout the pandemic, we are committed to ensuring all Ontarians have the opportunity to renew while continuing to access the care they need, when they need it.”

Ontarians will continue to be able to use their expired health card, including a red and white health card, to access insured health care services. Health care providers can continue to accept expired health cards following the previous February 28, 2022 deadline.

To make it easier and more convenient for Ontarians to renew health cards online, ServiceOntario is taking steps to enable online health card renewal using Ontario Photo Cards in the coming months.

An individual who faces difficulties renewing their health card, for whatever reason, should contact ServiceOntario at 1-866-532-3161 (TTY : 1-800-387-5559) to inquire about options for their specific situation.

Local young farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. If you are looking to sell your farm to a farming family please reach out. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com

It feels good to help!

Remembering Robin

the baby. It is used when a baby is sick and needs to be transferred to CHEO. This pump technology matches what is used by the CHEO transport team, resulting in a safe transfer with no interruption of the medication.

The cost of the pump is $4,800 and the family has covered the entire cost through the memorial donations, as well as a donation from Thompson Timber Mart, the family business, and a matching donation by Timberkids Foundation.

Louise and Rob Gale say they hoped their donation to the WDMH Foundation would make others happy. What they didn’t realize was that it would make them happy too.

“We feel great that we were able to help our local community,” says Louise.

Louise and Rob recently donated $10,000 to the Foundation’s Family Care Fund. It was their way of saying thank you for the care they have received.

“We’ve used the hospital on several occasions,” explains Louise. “When you walk in, it feels like home. The hospital team always gives 100% friendly assistance from the first welcome through the entire array of services they provide. Everyone is helpful and knowledgeable.”

Louise and Rob purchased a home near Winchester over a decade ago. Now that they are retired, they say it’s nice to know that the hospital is close by when needed.

“WDMH is an extremely valuable local resource that provides the highest professional health services to the community and beyond.”

“We are so grateful for donors like Louise and Rob,” notes Erin Kapcala, the WDMH Foundation’s Manager of Major and Planned Giving. “Their generosity will support care close to home for our local communities.”

“We were happy to make this donation as the WDMH staff definitely deserve our support!” sums up Louise.

Pet of the Month

"Hi my name is Shadow and I am a pure bred German Shepherd. I am 16 months old, and I absolutely love to play frisby. We play every afternoon in the back yard and I am very good at it. My favorite food is milk bone treats, but I try not to eat too many. I have never tried people food, but maybe, someday! My master, Roger Francis, takes me for a walk every day, and I am very friendly to people I meet. Even though I am quite big, I love to snuggle with my Mom in the evenings. I would love to be the pet of the month."

Would you like to see your pet featured in the North Dundas Times as Pet of the Month? Send us a photo and brief description of your companion which includes:

Their name, what animal/breed they are, something that they like to do, and their favourite food.

One lucky pet will be featured in the paper in March. Deadline for entries is March 4, and can be sent to Erin at erinjtinker82@gmail.com.

Robin James Morgan lives on in the hearts of his parents and grandparents – and now his memory is also helping the youngest patients at Winchester District Memorial Hospital.

Last October, Courtney and Anthony Morgan lost their son, who was stillborn at WDMH. Courtney and Anthony, as well as grandparents Karen and Jamie Thompson, wanted

to do something to thank the WDMH team for their compassion, care, and support during a very difficult time.

In speaking with the WDMH Foundation team, a decision was made to donate the funds to purchase a Novum IQ Syringe Pump for the Family Birthing Unit.

“We are thrilled to be able to direct all of the donations in memory of

our grandson and son, Robin James Morgan, to the WDMH Foundation,” noted Courtney, Anthony, Karen, and Jamie. “Providing the funds to purchase this special pump is a perfect way to commemorate Robin.”

The syringe pump is used to administer medication to babies; similar to an IV pump. With this pump, the medication doses are very accurate and safer for

Timberkids is Timber Mart Building Centre’s national charitable foundation. It matches donations made by local Timber Mart members that help local children’s charities.

“We are so grateful to this family for this meaningful donation,” sums up Kristen Casselman, Managing Director of the WDMH Foundation.

Rob and Louise Gale

Anthony & Courtney Morgan with Karen & Jamie Thompson

Meet Your Neighbour: Shannon Horsburgh

caring for people that you know, like a friend of a family member. You have that connection with them when you have something in common.”

Shannon notes that the motto at the Winchester Hospital is providing care close to home – something she lives and breathes every day. She says the staff set the rural hospital apart, through their values and team approach.

I was cared for in the same way the OB team would care for anyone else.”

Shannon says nursing –and motherhood – are about keeping an open mind, because you learn something new every day. “It’s great working in a team environment like this and having people to bounce ideas off of. We can really lean on each other for support.”

Dancer, heroic healer by Jennifer Westendorp

Ain’t no mountain high enough for Shannon Horsburgh. Shannon (nee Simms) grew up in Mountain, on the street that bears her family’s name.

“I danced at the Joanne Whittaker School of Dance,” she explains. “I was a dance instructor there.”

Shannon dipped her talented toes in everything, from ballet to tap and jazz to point.

“I love the freedom of being able to move and express yourself in your own way.”

She worked at Loughlin’s Country Store in Hallville for 15 years, starting out as a teenager and staying on at the local haunt all the way through school. Shannon says the owners, Marg and Gerald, treated her like family and taught her the secret of making the world’s best butter tarts.

After graduating from North Dundas District High

School, Shannon spread her wings and flew to nursing School at the University of Ottawa. The four-year program was challenging, but she stuck with it to the very end.

“I did my last placement in Winchester, because I was hoping to work here,” Shannon notes. “I was fortunate enough to get a job here right out of school.”

She started in the Emergency Department at Winchester District Memorial Hospital in 2012, and this year marks a decade of caring for the people of North Dundas.

“I went from a part-time Registered Nurse in the ED to full-time, then on to Team Leader for five years, and now I’ve taken on a new role as Interim Clinical Manager.”

Shannon always wanted to work in the community that she lives in. “It’s that personal touch,” she explains. “It’s so much better coming into work and

Agricultural and Horticultural Societies have access to more funds

The Ontario government is providing $1 million to support the province’s agricultural and horticultural societies who continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This will help them continue to operate and support their important efforts to educate people about the value and significance of agriculture in the province.

“Ontario’s agricultural and horticultural societies have long-enriched communities throughout the province and we look forward to them continuing to make significant contributions, from main street beautification projects to hosting the long-standing tradition of agricultural fairs, throughout

the province in 2022,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “These investments reflect the value of the societies’ contributions and our government’s recognition of the pandemic-caused pressures these organizations have been weathering.”

The funding with flow through the Agricultural and Horticultural Support and Recovery Funding Initiative and builds on previous investments of more than $7 million to assist these organizations during the pandemic.

This initiative features two funding streams:

- Base Support Funding will be issued to all eligible Agricultural and Horticultural

Societies through funding payments of $1,000 as a means of supporting their continued incorporation and activities.

- Hardship Funding for eligible Agricultural Societies will provide additional support which will be based on reported gate revenues from 2019. This will help off-set operating losses, liabilities, and fixed overhead costs related to land and buildings.

Eligible agricultural and horticultural societies can expect to receive funding before March 31, 2022.

“The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) appreciates OMAFRA’s continued financial support for our over 200

“No matter what you need, you can go to one of your colleagues and they’re always willing to help. We all just care for our patients as though they’re our own family members,” she notes. “That’s how it is throughout the entire hospital…whether you’re getting an ultrasound done, or staying with us for a few days on the in-patient side, everyone here just goes above and beyond for their patients.”

A year and a half ago, Shannon saw things from the other side of the curtain. She delivered her son, whom she and her husband named Landon, at the Winchester Hospital.

“He was born right in the middle of the pandemic,” Shannon says. “I made jokes when I went off on maternity leave that I wasn’t coming back until Covid was over, but then my year was up and it was still going.”

The experience of being a patient in her own hospital really opened her eyes to just how amazing the whole team is. “Everyone was so great, and I truly believe that

Shannon considers herself lucky to be a part of such a remarkable team. “They’re all so dedicated… they eat, breathe and love Winchester just as much as the rest of us do.”

On top of healing people at work, Shannon also flexes her heroic muscles when she’s off the clock. While visiting her father, Paul Simms, one day after work, they heard a neighbour calling for help. The man was trapped under a tractor and Shannon and her dad, a retired firefighter, helped save his life. The dynamic duo were presented with the first ever Mayor’s Award in 2019 in recognition of their efforts.

“It’s pretty crazy how the stars aligned that day.”

Shannon says North Dundas is a wonderful place to live, and she looks forward to raising her son here.

“I guarantee you that anyone here would give you the clothes off their back if you needed them,” she notes. “Everyone is willing to lend a helping hand.”

agricultural societies. This new funding shows Minister Thompson’s and OMAFRA’s confidence in our agricultural societies and the impact the societies and their members have on their local communities. During the pandemic, our agricultural societies have continued to creatively promote agriculture and food awareness and engage their communities through in-person and virtual fairs, events and activities” said Vince Brennan, Manager of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies.

“The members of the Ontario Horticultural Association express their gratitude to Minister Thompson and the Ontario government for their

continued support during these challenging times,” said Charles Freeman, President of the Ontario Horticultural Association. “This funding will assist the societies and clubs in their ongoing endeavours to serve and beautify their communities.”

Agricultural and Horticultural Societies play a critical role in educating Ontarians on

the importance of agriculture and celebrating a rural way of life, and are represented by two independent associations: The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies represents 213 rural Agricultural Societies, and the Ontario Horticultural Association represents over 270 Horticultural Societies.

Shannon Horsburgh, a Registered Nurse at Winchester District Memorial Hospital.

James Taylor 613•797•3032 www.taylordsafety.ca

Heritage Week

South Mountain in view

This week is Heritage Week in Ontario, and the Times is taking a look at the village of South Mountain this year. It is never easy to grasp how di erent a place can be over time, so we’ve taken some items from South Mountain’s own local newspaper, the Mountain Herald, for March 2, 1905. This may be the only issue still available to us, and is stored at the Dundas County Archives, along with a wonderful collection of old newspapers from the United Counties. These advertisements and notices are accompanied by some articles on South Mountain’s story, which we hope you enjoy reading. A favourite quote of mine is: “The past is a foreign country; they do things di erently there.” Indeed, they did. These ads come from a time when South Mountain had hotels, a number of grocery stores, a bakery, and other activities that allow us to catch a glimpse of that foreign country, and remember that we are the heirs of those people and that time.

Memories of South Mountain

by David Shanahan

There have been many changes in South Mountain since Samuel Garnsey and John Faddel (or Farrel) rst started selling lots in the new village in the 1840's. For one thing, the Petite Nation River, as it was called in their day, is no longer the rushing ood it was when it powered saw, grist and planing mills in South Mountain. Like many of the rivers in the area, years of damming and silting have narrowed and slowed the stream.

One building in the village has seen many of those changes since it was built in the 1850's. Standing at the corner of Main and Bridge Streets, this red brick building has been used as a store, a bank, a hotel and a post o ce. For some years, it was the home of the local newspaper, the Mountain Herald. Back in the 1950's, local resident Dan Barry shared some of his memories of life in South Mountain when he was young with the Evening Citizen. He had once run a store in the building and could remember back to a much busier South Mountain.

“Kavanagh’s store was a very busy store. He had ve clerks. The Christie store was farther up the street and there was John Ellis’ grocery. We had two butcher shops and a hardwareBowen’s - but now they’re all gone... My grandfather, John Morrow, was the rst postmaster. He ran a grocery and drove to Prescott to get supplies he had bought in Montreal.

“The mail came from Iroquois by horses every day, over planked roads that ran from Baldwin’s bridge to Iroquois. At night you could hear the empty grain wagons rattling as they rumbled over the plank roads on their way home. There were a couple of grist mills and a furniture factory here at one time and we had a factory that built ironing boards that were shipped all over by the car load”.

Celebrating Heritage Week 2022

The furniture makers of Dundas County

Dam at South Mountain

In 1905, when this postcard was made, South Mountain had a population of 400. James Murdock was the baker; J.H. and J.N. Barkley, John Gilroy and J.A. Hunter were blacksmiths; E. Foster the butcher; Dr. George Stacey; the general stores were operated by M.J. Christie, J.W. Ellis and Martin Kavanagh; Mrs. K. Ellis ran the grocery; J.A. Storey operated the hotel; F. Phillips was the jeweler; Joseph Locke ran the planning mill, Abraham Ellis made shoes and D. Clelland acted as postmaster and grocer.

[Source: Cornwall Community Museum]

by Susan Peters, Dundas County Archives

Dundas County was originally settled in 1784 by loyalist refugees of the American Revolution. As refugees, they brought with them only basic necessities for their new life in the wilderness. As they resettled into what became Dundas County, they had to start fresh.

It was not until 1847, with the completion of the St Lawrence Canal, that industry could build. Iroquois was the industrial centre of Matilda Township, as Morrisburg was for Williamsburg Township. The Williamsburg Canal enabled the harnessing of water power so that mills could be built in Morrisburg, along with the construction of the Grand Trunk Railway in 1854. It was not until 1884 that Mountain and Winchester townships were serviced by rail, courtesy the Canadian Pacific.

As industrialization was slow in Dundas County, so was the development of furniture making. For many years, rural settlers could only afford the absolute bare necessities for survival. The first furniture makers did not advertise in local newspapers until 1842.

The first known cabinet maker in Dundas County was William Marsh. His son continued with the business until at least 1900. They were

listed in directories, census, and newspaper ads in Iroquois. By 1884, his son W. J. March was also listed in an advertisement as ‘furniture maker and undertaker.’

Between 1840 and 1900, there were 112 cabinet or furniture makers in Dundas County.

Several were long-term businesses, such as M. F. Beach. Nearly two-thirds were located in Iroquois. As Mountain Township did not have water access, it was slower to develop industries. Mountain was home to 13% of the furniture makers of the county. Two were in Inkerman, three in South Mountain, and two in Van Camp.

Elijah Gregory was in business in South Mountain from 1874 to 1900. Earnest Hunter served the same region from 1896 to 1900.

Inkerman was the base for William Suffel from 1864 to 1871. George Hope served Van Camp from 1881 to 1895. His business included a general store as well as furniture and he was succeeded by his son Wesley in 1881.

Winchester Township was a challenge to research due to the fact that a large percentage of the furniture makers had a very short tenure. The other challenge was the constant name changes of the communities. Armstrong Mills became known as Winchester in 1845. In 1875, it was changed

to Chesterville. Bates Corners was, at one point, known as West Winchester. By 1892, it was known as Winchester Village. The township produced 33 of the 112 cabinet makers in the County.

In West Winchester (later known as Winchester Village), John Ross operated as a furniture maker and undertaker from 1890 to 1896. The most noteworthy of cabinet makers in Dundas County was Mahlon Beach. He moved to Winchester in 1856 and set up a saw mill. Between 1861 and 1878, he also operated a general store, cheese factory, and a grist mill. In 1883, he ran a roller mill in Iroquois.

On July 12, 1884, the entire plant in Winchester was destroyed by fire. But he was undaunted and built a bigger factory. He was by far the largest player in the furniture business, employing over 100 people in 1900. His success could partially be attributed to a long-term contract with the Eaton’s Company during this time: selling ready-made furniture through their show rooms and catalogue.

Beach was also involved in local politics. He was Warden of SD&G Counties in 1873. He left a legacy with 10 children, many of whom continued in his business endeavours.

dundascountyarchives@ gmail.com

M. F. Beach & Co. Factory, engraving by John Henry Walker (1831-1899), © McCord Museum.

History page:

A long tradition of newspapers

by David Shanahan

Although the North Dundas Times is only a recent addition to the history of newspapers in Dundas County, it follows a long and sometimes colourful line of papers that have appeared in the region over the decades. As long ago as 1858, the Iroquois Chief was a weekly newspaper started by a young 20 year old, William Johnston. He had served his time with the Brockville Recorder, a newspaper that survives to this day. Unfortunately for Johnston, his paper lasted just two years, suffering from a lack of funds because of the failure of subscribers to actually pay their subscriptions. But William landed on his feet, eventually, joining the staff of the Toronto Globe (now the Globe and Mail).

Closer to home, the Winchester Press began publication on May 1, 1888, lasting for more then 130 years before closing in January, 2020. The launch of the paper was nice timing, as Winchester had become an incorporated Village in January, 1888. Its founder was Byron Lane, born in Leamington, and with experience of a number of publications in Canada and the United States before arriving in Winchester, where he bought the property of R. L. Crane, where the West Winchester Directory had been based, and established the newspaper.

It was unusual for its time, in that the entire operation of the paper was

OPP Provincial Communication Centre in action

located in the Press office in Winchester from 1891. Usually, the printing was done elsewhere, by professional printing companies; but Byron Lane had the experience and talent to do the whole job on site.

In its long history, the Press had remarkably few owners. James H. Ross took over the paper in 1915 and continued as owner until his death in 1937, during which it went through trauma and growth. In 1921, the building housing the paper was destroyed by fire, but Ross kept publishing and built the Winchester Press up into one of the most respected journals of its day.

After his death, one of Ross’ employees eventually took over as owner/editor, and Fern Workman carried on the business until his death in 1957. But the Press continued in the family, published by his widow and sons until 1981, when it was sold to the Morris family, who continued in place until the paper folded in 2020. All in all, it is a remarkable record that the Winchester Press had just four owners in all of its 132 year history.

South Mountain had its own newspaper too. In 1899, J. B. Dixon, a native of Kemptville, arrived in the village and opened the Mountain Herald. It was later taken over by the Beach family and, apparently, “enjoys a fair patronage”. Not fair enough, as it happened, as the paper ceased publication.

The one publication that did survive to the present day is The Chesterville Record, which began publication in December, 1894

by R. L. Harrop, who only remained with it for a year. It was then taken over by T. T. Shaw, originally from Port Perry, Ontario. Shaw, like Byron Lane of the Winchester Press, had gained experience of the journalism game before arriving in Chesterville. He had started with the Port Perry Standard for five years, before working in Oshawa and Smith’s Falls. For seven years, he worked in Toronto on The World newspaper, and then made the move to Chesterville.

Entrepreneurs like T. T. Shaw and Byron Lane lived at a time when newspapers were the main source of information, news, and gossip for residents of the province. Their political affiliations were open and transparent, leaving some to have to declare themselves independent of party affiliations rather than be seen as mouthpieces for the Conservatives or Liberals.

It was a time of freewheeling journalism, not the apparently objective style of today, and newspaper Editors were men of influence and power in their communities. How much has changed!

One wonders, as well, what brought men like Lane and Smith to Winchester and Chesterville from having held positions in larger newspapers in towns and cities across the province. What was the link that found them running local newspapers in North Dundas, and why did they succeed when others failed? That is a matter for historical research: and the story has yet to be told.

Chris Allan describes a day in the life of Provincial Communication Centre (PCC) in Smiths Falls. Chris explains the dispatchers roll in the day to day running of any police organization is vital. If there were no call takers, who would the public call? If there were no dispatchers, who would the officers depend on to help them help the public? Call takers hear the cries for help, the frustration, anger, panic, desperation, sadness and fear. They speak to people, sometimes at the worst possible time in their lives, while trying to help them, and getting the officers the information and support they need. It is not an easy job.

Dispatchers, or call takers, that work for the PCC are all front line workers. OPP call takers are the first contact point between the Public and the OPP. They work shift work (12 hours), evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Chris has been doing this complex career for 19 years starting in Belleville then onto Perth before ending up in Smiths Falls. Chris is married and has two adult children, one continuing education as the other is out in the working world. While away from the hustle and bustle of the PCC, Chris loves the outdoors all year round. Chris can be found hiking, cycling, skiing, skating or relaxing at the cottage. Chris loves to be active that's for sure.

Once it's time to put the headset back on, Chris has to manage calls and 6 screens in front of him. To say he is a highly skilled multi-tasker is an understatement. Chris wants us to know more about the wonderful staff at PCC and the multitude of tasks they do.

How they start the day depends on where they

in EMS or other services or police jurisdictions. As dispatchers, our main concern is for the safety of the officers we are dispatching for, the efficient and expedited sharing of vital and accurate information, and the general safety of the public via our actions.

are sitting. There is a division of labour in all PCC's, separated into call taking and dispatching. Once they are set up at their desks for their shift, they are ready to take calls for service. As a dispatcher, they manage 6 monitors and 3 computers, assisting the public with calls for service and getting officers out to the locations. When they relieve their colleagues they conduct a "hand off", or mini debrief of what is currently on the go, anything that is outstanding, any concerns or major events that may be ongoing.

As an East Region call taker they process calls for service and treat all callers equally and at face value. They use a headset and answer calls with a beep in their ear, with a slight difference between 911 calls and non-emergency lines. 911 is strictly to be used for EMERGENCY calls and others are directed to non-emergency lines.

In either role, most especially on the dispatch side of the room, they are tethered to the desk by their headset and they do not have the ability to get up and walk away. There is some leeway on the call taking side, but dispatchers cannot get up and leave their desk for any reason without being relieved. Over a 12 hour shift this requires a great deal of coordination. All calls in and out of the PCC are recorded and all calls entered for service, including calls from dispatchers to officers that may be in detachment.

Between January 1 and December 31, 2021, OPP call takers handled 96,126 - 911 calls THAT DID NOT go to the road (Officers) saving 174,661 hours. These are just pocket dials. Call taking is a very one on one conversation with the caller and the calltaker, however there are often times to conference

On any call they may be required to do a myriad of different things (multitasking) and be responsible to listen to multiple talk groups (radio channels), TAC's (tactical channels), the phone, and in person conversations (with Sergeant/supervisor). One of the first duties, whether it is a day or night shift, is to ensure that all officers are logged onto the system accurately. Although officers now have the ability to log themselves on via their MWS (Mobile Work Station, or onboard computer), dispatchers must confi rm that they have logged on to the correct vehicle, the correct call sign, the correct badge number, skill sets (like SOCO Scene Of the Crime Officer), off duty time, and work cell number.

As equipment, like cruisers, are shared, it is also vital that the dispatcher confirm officers are off duty and their cruisers are available for the new officers starting their shifts. As dispatchers, we are the conduit between officers on the road and other agencies or services. They are consistently tasked to make contact with MTO, tow companies, funeral services, MOE (Environment), Hydro, Fire, Roads Dept, etc.

Status checks on the officers on the road is required, especially in priority or potentially dangerous situations. Traffic stops are one of the most dangerous situations an officer could be in, given the person driving the vehicle is unknown. The console management is vital. Updating, documenting, and timely clearing events keeps officer timers and status checks up to date. Dispatchers are ultimately accountable for officers.

As with the start of my day, another debrief is required when ending my shift between myself and my relief. Ready to wrap up another day, to go home, get recharged, and do it all over again.

Chris at the console in the PCC

What’s a leftover?

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

My spouse Beth, who is excellent in the kitchen, recently told me of her amazement at how many don’t “do” leftovers. Ok, so here is where I get preachy, so please bear with me. We believe that some folks don’t understand the advantages, or perhaps don’t have the skills, to prepare multiple meals in one cooking session. Our family will have a particularly tasty dish for dinner one night, and then enjoy it, either the same way or in a variation, the next day. The obvious example is the Mighty Chicken: we have a roasted chicken one night, and the next day enjoy chicken sandwiches, with a nice grainy mustard from Mrs. McGarrigles

Fine Food Shop in Merrickville. Or we might put a pork shoulder in the slow cooker with some vegetable concentrate and a bit of water, a tablespoon of crushed garlic, and later in the cooking process, some chopped onions and some small potatoes; we then enjoy a lovely meal and we also have something for the next day or so.

So, we always cook for multiple meals, and it is seldom, indeed, that we would throw out good food. We are told that in Canada, we waste some 2.2 million tonnes of edible food, costing our economy something like $17 billion, not to mention the impact on our environment. Mind you, we don’t have to treat cooking for multiple meals as some kind of great cause; it’s just common sense for a family to make the most out of their food dollars. Here are a few tips from the Cormier – and Salamanders – family:

Shop for specials and stock-pile:

At the Forest at LilyPond, the family’s farm, we have two pantries on the go: our cold storage, equipped with wall to wall shelving for “food in waiting” such as pastas, canned goods, garden produce, coffee and the like, and the upstairs pantry, which contains foods and condiments for immediate use. So, when it comes to making up the Chicken and Rice recipe that I wrote about last year, the cream of mushroom soup, the frozen chicken, the rice, and the package of dry onion soup are all immediately at hand.

Freeze everything that can be frozen:

At the farm, we have two full sized freezers packed with the basic ingredients for our meals, all purchased on sale. This forces us to inventory what is there on a regular basis and plan our meals accordingly. We don’t want to have anything that is freezer burnt, so cycling the contents of our freezers becomes very important and contributes to overall savings and negligible wastage.

Plan ahead:

Every morning, we decide what we are going to have for dinner that night. We also inventory what is in the fridge for meals during the day. I work primarily from the farm and so does my grandson Ayden, who is taking his third year university biology on-line due to Covid; so we greatly enjoy the extensions of our previous day’s meal.

Our family is by no means “rolling in dough”, but we eat very well, due to Beth and Liane’s expertise in the kitchen, and their ability to ferret out bargains as they become available. If you have any further ideas or questions, just email them to me at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

CO2 Down To Earth 9

A major obstacle to Greening our Municipality

vid 19 mandates, but also manifesting a much deeper dissatisfaction with current governments at both the federal and provincial levels. Secondly, there are still complaints about the imposition of a prison on Kemptville, which reminds us of how the provincial government has arbitrarily gutted environmental regulations and hamstrung the Township's ability to regulate so-called development.

on these events shows that they all rise from a common source: the incapacity of current methods of governance to address citizens' concerns adequately. As Jane Wilson's messages most directly concern potential greening programs, with her permission I will paraphrase them here.

Framing the issue of CO2 emissions are the objectives being set by governments.

by Philip Fry

During recent weeks, my plan to discuss wildflower gardening as a means of reducing the impact of CO2 emissions on our “quilted”

landscape has been disrupted by three apparently unrelated events. Firstly, there has been the occupation of downtown Ottawa by the truck convoy, ostensibly protesting Co-

And, thirdly, I have been receiving email messages and a Report from Jane Wilson of Wind Concerns Ontario (WCO), a citizens organization, outlining ecological issues raised by wind turbines. Even a cursory reflection

Local RTOERO District 25 donates $5,000 to local Health Care

Jane reports that Ontario wants 1,000 megawatts of new power generation, and the City of Ottawa's target is 3,200 megawatts by the year 2050. For comparative scale, the huge Nation Rise wind “farm” generates only about 100 megawatts. Ottawa wants 700 or more 4 megawatt turbines, which would cover a little less than half of its needs, and is looking for its neighbours to “help out.” The implication is that North Grenville is being scouted for appropriate and accessible sites. Given the potential impact on human health, biodiversity, and land use, two questions arise: Are turbines the way to go? If so, is it possible to mitigate their currently devastating impact on the environment?

Based on information received from the Province, WCO produced a report synthesizing the government's response to formal complaints about the effects of wind turbines. Almost 6,000 files

about wind turbine noise, vibration, and sound pressure were handed over to WCO, of which 39% included adverse effects on heath. Among the documents, an acoustic professional who was hired to monitor turbine noise and their effect on bats, recounted that she could not complete her work because the sound created “a polluted toxic environment” so bad that she had to flee the site.

The points made by the WCO's analysis assert that while the government had promised that there would be a complaint process to ensure enforcement of regulations, the complaints did not finally result in any significant abatement action being taken by the operators of the turbine installations, and this was despite the requirements set during approval of the projects. The process for receiving complaints is inconsistent, the information gathered is incomplete, and there is apparently no ministry-wide coordinated review and evaluation process about complaints. It seems the government doesn't wish (or care) to make significant follow-ups.

What are we to do, then, with the sites already “developed” to “harvest” wind energy, and how are we to evaluate future projects? What technological remedies to this devastation are there? What

remedial projects – the transformation of wastelands, the borders of access roads and fence lines, with native trees, shrubs and flowering plants like the magnificent, but regionally rare Canada lily, can be envisaged? The formation of eco-gardeners' groups and access to degraded sites is critical. But this step depends largely on the Township and its decisions with regard to “development” criteria can currently be overturned at the whim of provincial ministers. We are therefore in a quandary. Unless we can rely on a shift from the present confrontational, quasidictatorial form of governance to a collaborative, consensual approach based on local community concerns, significant remedial work will be scuttled. In short, we need properly representative environmental committees at all levels of governance mandated to ensure that information flows both up and down in the hierarchy of decision making, and that proposed decisions be correctly presented, understood, and vetted at the Township level.

Please continue sending me your comments to animate this discussion. I am at wildflowerguy@gmail.com.

North Dundas District High School report

The amazing team at RTOERO (Retired Teachers of Ontario) District 25 Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry, had a vision to advocate for older adults to create a more secure and compassionate future for everyone. When they heard about the work being done at the WDMH Foundation to support health care and long-term care, they were all in. They turned to the RTOERO Community Grants program to help.

“RTOERO Districts are eligible to receive grants of up to $2,500 for community projects that align with strategic goals,” explains Rich Prophet, RTOERO Board Chair.

“We submitted an application and are thrilled with the grant,” says Delores Biddy, President, District 25 Stormont Dundas Glengarry. “We care about the health of our local communities and are excited to support the work of the WDMH Foundation.”

But the local team didn’t stop there. District 25 then matched the $2,500 grant, bringing the total to $5,000 overall!

For the Community Grants program, districts apply for individual projects (educationrelated or other community initiatives) that support local programs. Each year, a committee of RTOERO members assesses the merits of each grant submission. For 2021, RTOERO funded 31 projects for a total of $79,885. Since the inception of the Community Grants program 21 years ago, RTOERO has donated $1.85 million to more than 525 programs and projects.

“RTOERO members care about their communities and serve them every day,” adds Rich Prophet. “The Community Grants program encourages all of our districts to support and partner with outside organizations, and to give back.”

District 25 Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry plays a key role in helping members stay active and connected, with each other and the community. There are more than 700 local members.

Since 1968, RTOERO has been a voice for those who work in and retire from the education sector. Its mission is to improve the lives of members and seniors. RTOERO is a bilingual trusted voice on healthy, active living in the retirement journey for the broader education community. With 82,000+ members in 51 districts across Canada, it is the largest national provider of non-profit group health benefits for education retirees.

Returning to Sports

by Savannah Coleman, Minister of Communications

We have officially completed a full week of semester two here at North Dundas District High School. Students and staff rolled into it like a breeze, and made it feel like we had been doing a semester system all along!

Up until now, there had been no extracurriculars of

any kind happening, but we received great news on Friday that we could return to extracurriculars and sports!

As many already know, North Dundas students strive for sports, and we cannot wait to get back into it.

Student Council held an Olympic Week at ND to show our support to our country competing in the 2022 Olympics. Monday, February 7, was Grade Colour Day, where each grade wore their assigned colour; Wednesday, February 9 was Jersey Day, and our halls were filled with many different teams of all sports; and, Friday, February 11 was Red and White Day, to support Canada at the Olympics.

On top of all the spirit days, there was a door decorating contest: each class was

assigned a sport, and they had the task of decorating their door to represent the sport they were given. The doors were judged, as the Olympics head to a close, on Friday, February 17. Results next time.

Finally, with Valentine’s Day’s arrival, Student Council sold Valentine o’grams to students, to be handed out to their special someone on Valentine’s Day. They had the choice of purchasing a candy bag, or a can of Crush to be delivered to a student of their choice. We looked forward to seeing all the smiling faces on Monday when the o’grams were handed out, and we look upon this day as one to celebrate love and kindness for all!

Jim Shaw and Gerry Morrell, RTEORO District Representatives present the community grant cheque.

Canada lily Lilium canadense

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