ND Times Issue 8 2024 April 18

Who hasn’t heard of Porch View Hobby Farm? Few residents of North Dundas would be able to say they don’t know about Winchester residents Carrie Paquin and Trevor Porteous, and their home-based business offering farm fresh meat, eggs, and other products for sale. One thing that may come as news to some readers is that Carrie and Trevor have now opened a physical store to sell not only their products, but other local products as well. The store is truly the epitome of “local helping local”, both in terms of

selling local food to local people, as well as business to business collaboration with multiple local products in one location.

Where did the idea of a store come from? “In July 2023, I was laid off from my full-time job,” Carrie explained. “When this happened, I did two things: I immersed myself in the farm and our farm sales, and I made my side business “Sticks & Stitches” a full-time thing. Running both of these businesses together meant I needed a combined space to serve both customer bases. With not much snow this winter, Trevor, who owns Camouflage Property Maintenance and primarily

does snow removal in the winter months, had some extra time on his hands. So he got the store ready to open this spring.”

Carrie explained that she and Trevor have wanted to open a farm store since they first started the farm. They have been selling their farm-fresh eggs and meat since 2020, as well as supplying other small farms with piglets to raise for pork for their freezers. “We have had a list of ‘farm store ideas’ for years, compiled from long chats on the front porch,” Carrie added. “We’ve definitely been in the planning phase for about 4 years.”

Carrie asserts that the most rewarding thing

about running the farm is knowing that local families are eating clean, ethically raised foods. “We often invite customers to take a walk around and see where and how our animals are raised,” she said. “We happily answer any questions about what they are fed, how they live, and even their end of life.”

The store – which is now open – offers farm fresh chicken, turkey, beef, and pork all raised on site. The store also sells chicken, duck and quail eggs produced on site, as well as their fresh grown potatoes and onions, when in stock. Seasonally, the store will offer sunflowers, corn, pumpkins, and Christmas trees.

In North Dundas, local business is not just about commerce, it is about community. Businesses support each other as much as they support their customers. Next month, on Saturday, May 4, the North Dundas Business Expo will be returning to the Joel Steele Arena in Winchester from 9am3pm. The event features free admission, and over 100 local vendors to visit and explore. The Expo is a stunning example of what it looks like when North

HELP WANTED

Berube Poultry

FULL & PART TIME. No experience necessary. Will train.

Serious inquiries only please @ 613-989-2020

cont'd from front page

Dundas businesses come together.

Products that Porch View Hobby Farm sells through collaboration with other locals include those from Springs Apiary (Honey and beeswax products), Walker Family Farm (Pure Maple Syrup), Crooked Rubz (spices and rubs that pair perfectly with their meat), and Connerty Meadow Farms (Goat milk soaps). The store will soon carry local produce as well.

“We follow provincial guidelines, providing the necessary paperwork for customers to have their meat birds processed at licensed, inspected abattoirs,” Carrie added. “So

we don't just sell farmfresh meat, we also enable other farms and families to raise their own.”

The new store also has wholesale terms in place with Willows Agriservices in Kemptville and Ritchies in Ottawa to bring in their livestock feeds, so customers can pick up those items right in North Dundas. This will help fill a hole created by the loss of the Winchester Ritchie’s location. The store currently carries only a few options, but the selection of feeds will be expanded as needed. A deal has just been reached to add farm supplies such as feeders and waterers, heat lamps, and other

Open Mic Café pairs well with Iron Forge

Shawn Thomas and his son Kaz on stage at WOMCafe, Sunday, April 7th.

Credit: TJ Warren

traditional “feed store” items to the store as well. Products from Sticks & Stitches as well as décor items are also being sold.

When asked about challenges, Carrie pointed out that raising animals always has hardships, and heartbreaks, but that their relationship with Dundas Veterinary Services and other local supporters has helped a lot.

“Cheering on local businesses, watching them grow and thrive has always been very important to me,” said Carrie. “I have developed friendships with many of our business owners, and I'm proud and grateful to have the chance to join

them. I see them support each other, have each other's backs, and that's not something you see in every town.”

Current store hours are Tuesday - Friday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, and weekends 10:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Carrie and Trevor have some flexibility available for families and farmers who may need to make an after-hours visit.

“We just want to thank everyone who follows our journey and cheers us on,” said Carrie. “It means a lot to us.” Porch View

Hobby Farm is located at 12039 County Road 38 in Winchester.

“Shaw Knelsen, owner of Iron Forge Pizza, has graciously allowed us to spend Sundays in April with him at his fabulous little restaurant just a block away from the Old Town Hall,” says Ann Brady, who coordinates the weekly coffeehouse. “So every Sunday in April, from 2 pm to 5 pm, you can find Winchester Open Mic Café happening at Iron Forge Pizza.”

Musicians and audience members attending the weekly gathering filled the house on opening day, April 7. “People of all ages came in from Nepean, Morrisburg, Mountain, Rockland and Winchester,” Brady says. “Everyone enjoyed the music and the gourmet menu. We are very grateful to Shaw for once again supporting local artists in such a meaningful way and helping us to continue uninterrupted!”

Iron Forge Pizza, located at 500 Main Street in Winchester, is open seven days a week, and on Sundays from 10:30 am to 9 pm. Admission to Winchester Open Mic is free, but Iron Forge’s menu charges apply. Visit Iron Forge Pizza and Winchester Open Mic Café on Facebook for more details.

culverts

Life with Connor the Weatherman

featuring Connor Mockett

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to another week of Life with Connor the Weatherman! This week I’d like to talk about our adventure here in New Brunswick with the solar eclipse on April 8th. I talked about it in my previous column explaining what would happen, now it’s time to talk about our day and where we went for the eclipse.

Of course, with everywhere that was available to see the eclipse even partially, it was a hugely hyped up day. People were off work early or just off entirely, schools were out early, millions upon millions of people traveling to see a once in a lifetime event. That hype was ten times more crazy in areas where the path of totality was going through. Here in Moncton, the City was just outside the path of totality,

so much so that you could’ve driven 5 minutes out of the City and been in the path of totality. It was about 99% for Moncton.

So, with that in mind, the traffic in Moncton was absolutely insane. People on HWY 15/11 going north out of Moncton to get into totality, people going north on regular county roads to get into totality, generally people going north any which way they could find. Thankfully, I was going to a town a little less known, off the highways and only accessible through a couple of county roads as it is generally just surrounded by forest. I scouted out the path of totality in New Brunswick and found this spot, Rogersville, New Brunswick. Considering it’s generally in the middle of nowhere, surely it won’t be busy right?

Well, if you thought it wouldn’t be busy (me),

you’d be horribly wrong. Immediately after getting on County Road 128 to go north for a one hour drive, I was in a long line of traffic. Of course, considering the time that I was on that road (3:00pm), there’s only one thing that traffic could be on that road for. Yes, the eclipse. We followed in that line until we got to Rogersville, and along that road, we saw more and more people parked in some pullouts, people in their laneways in chairs, you name it. Then we got into Rogersville itself, and there was absolutely zero parking anywhere. If there was a parking spot somewhere, it was taken. People were absolutely everywhere, it was like a party.

As soon as I saw that, I started to use one of my storm chasing techniques: looking at Google Maps satellite view to try to find secluded areas. I ended up finding one relatively quickly, a small paved road that I thought would bring me to another small road, with some fields for visibility. I got down that road and all of a sudden there was a little dirt cul-de-sac. The road ended and turned into an unmaintained ATV trail type of thing. Wish Google Maps would have told me that one!

New retail craft supplies business in North Dundas

by Brandon Mayer

Coming soon to Spruit Road: a new home-based craft supplies retail store that will undoubtedly fill an important need for the North Dundas community. The planned store location is not yet open since needed renovations are not yet complete, but Katt Gillard – who owns the operation along with her fiancé, Josh Triemstra – has already started running crafting workshops out of it. The plan is for the space to serve

as a hub for workshops and classes exploring various types of art as well as life skills.

Katt lived in Alberta for 16 years, and she ran a craft store there for nine of those years. “When I moved here, I went look-

ing to see what was available for craft supplies, and there is nothing anywhere close, the closest would be Ottawa,” said Katt. “For all the small communities around, I’ll be the centre hub for craft supplies for all different crafts.”

The 1,500 square foot store will be run out of the basement of Katt and Josh’s home. The store, called “Katt’s Sew Crafty”, will also double as a classroom for workshops and classes covering topics such as knitting, crocheting, weaving, sewing, mixed media,

However, that little culde-sac actually turned out to be fantastic. I parked the car, turned it off, got out, and just listened. Shhh, do you hear that? Yeah, me neither. It was completely quiet. No one was around, I was the only vehicle to go down that road. So we sat there, put our glasses on, took some photos, and waited for totality. By the way, those glasses were super cool for my eyes and my camera. Multi-purpose! We watched the partial eclipse get closer to being total for about 20-25 minutes, and then it happened.

The daylight turned to darkness insanely fast. I wasn’t quite expecting it to be so fast, actually. It was mere seconds. You could actually see the light shuttering across the ground, which is hard to explain, but I promise you that it was the coolest thing I have ever seen. We were in an area without any street lights or anything, so it got quite dark for us. The white ring around the sun with the purple/red sun flares on the bottom of the sun was so otherworldly. If you have a chance to ever experience a total solar eclipse in your life, you have to do it. I promise it’s worth it, no matter where it

is. It’s so hard to explain the experience of actually seeing the totality, because it was so amazing that words don’t really articulate how amazing it was. You have to see it to believe it.

As quickly as the daylight turned to darkness, darkness turned back to daylight after about three and a half minutes. Again, you could see the light on the ground shuttering back in as the light was changing so fast. And just like that, it was like it had never even happened. Photos were

taken, good times were had, and we had an experience to tell stories about for the rest of our lives.

Slight tip though, if you ever get to experience a total solar eclipse: don’t have to rush home afterwards, the line of traffic will be about 50 km long with every single person going under the speed limit.

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.

kids crafts and more.

In terms of what will be sold in the store, this will include supplies for sewing, knitting, crocheting, kids’ crafts, adult art and crafts, painting, and more. Katt hopes the store will become a “mini Michaels”, referring to the popular craft store chain with locations in Ottawa.

Katt’s Sew Crafty is located at 11845 Spruit Road, north of Winchester (Mountain address). Products are already available online at www.kattssewcrafty.ca.

- 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 AntiFraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraudcentrecentreantifraude.ca.

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 farmers 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 ac-

Community Food Share’s

Fill-a-Bag food drive ready to roll

To help fulfill its vision that no person or family in our community goes hungry, Community Food Share is heading for its biggest food drive of the year with the Filla-Bag campaign.

Organizers are hoping to collect enough food to help the food bank through the summer months and into the fall. Volunteer drivers and their teams are lined up for routes in communities in Dundas and Stormont counties.

On Saturday, May 4, reusable grocery bags will be delivered by teams of drivers and volunteers to most house-

holds in the villages in Dundas and Stormont Counties. Due to previous commitments, some bags might be delivered over that weekend. The following Saturday, May 11, those same teams will return between 1 and 3 pm to pick up the bags - hopefully filled with non-perishable food for the CFS food banks.

As in the past, Community Food Share is hoping for donations of canned and dry goodsno glass bottles please, for safety reasons - with emphasis on canned fruit, cereals, baking supplies and almost any non-perishable items you can

imagine. We urge you to check the shopping list attached to your bag. Thanks to a generous donation from Feed Ontario, we have ample supplies of pasta products.

The Fill-a-Bag food drive will be the major event that stocks the food bank shelves helping to fulfill our vision that no person or family in our community goes hungry.

If you can offer your services for a couple of hours on those two Saturdays, either as a driver or a person who will deliver the bags to each home, we would like to hear from you. Please call our team leader Jane

cept 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 ProgressiveConservative 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 Leeds-Grenville-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.

Schoones at 613 8980781 or leave a message at either of our CFS food banks in Morrisburg and Winchester.

We are unable to deliver to apartments or seniors’ buildings; however, those residents are invited to purchase a pre-made bag at a local grocery store. Those bags will be counted in the Fill-a-Bag numbers the week of May 4 - 11. You are also welcome to send a monetary donation indicating that it is for the Fill-a-Bag 2024 campaign.

can

treatment. In a stunning lack of joined up thinking, their Ontario Works claims take about a week to become active after their release, meaning they either have to find some money to pay for their vitally needed prescriptions, rely on the goodwill of the pharmacy owner, or go back to using illicit drugs with all the risks and social issues that poses.

If one of the goals of our criminal justice system is to rehabilitate people and reduce the risk of reoffending in future, then it is failing abysmally. Rather than the punitive system in the US, we should be taking inspiration from countries such as Norway, which use restorative justice and set people up to succeed after release from custody.

Steve Gabell

Hey there, budding artists of North Dundas! 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@ndtimes.ca.

Deadline for submissions is April 24.

How I got through the ‘winter blues’

by Lena Usovich

I hate the cold. No matter how beautiful winter is, the cold and the lack of sun make me depressed.

To me, winter always was the most depressing time of the year. Sometimes, the weather is so bad you cannot do much outdoors and you have to spend a lot of time indoors. This year, I experienced Seasonal Affective Disorder for the first time. SAD is a type of depression characterized by symptoms like low mood, a loss of interest in daily activities, fatigue, feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness. It happens during certain seasons of the year, most often fall or winter, when the days are shorter and there is less sunlight.

When the weather changes, I feel like a completely different person, depending on the season. I always thought that it was normal, and that every person felt the same. This winter, I felt unwell and I developed symptoms that I had not encountered before. I was tired all the time, my appetite had changed, and I had particularly higher cravings for sugary and starchy food. I felt sad and irritable all the time, had lost interest in daily activities that used to bring me joy before, and I was avoiding people.

Now I understand that the best solution at the time would have been to talk with my doctor to find some solutions to make me feel better and to cope, but

I thought I could deal with it on my own. As a result, I made some bad decisions during that time that I now regret. But I realized that I had the strength and determination to make changes that would help improve my state.

I was tired of constantly being in a bad mood and feeling sad, so I started reading a lot about the topic, googling symptoms, reading scientific articles, talking with people who have experienced seasonal depression, and I found my way out of this season of depression. I want to share my tips on how I eased my winter SAD symptoms.

First, I started spending more time outdoors during the day, especially when it was sunny. During the day, I kept my curtains open. I increased my physical activities and started going to the gym every day. As you know, physical activity helps relieve stress, builds energy, and increases both your physical and mental well-being and resilience.

I discovered activities that make me feel good, like taking dance classes, eating healthy, well-balanced meals, and trying to be patient and focus on the positives.

I hope that these suggestions help you to cope better if faced with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Be sure to tell your family and friends how this change of season can affect you so that they can check in on you. They can also help you and support you.

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 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

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.

“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

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.

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-multiplesclerosis for a list of resources.

Hostas and other shady characters!

by David Dunn of Rideau

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 color 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.

Tips for pain-free gardening this spring

Many of us feel a fresh desire to tend to yard work or gardening in springtime. These are great ways to get some exercise and de-stress.

And, even if health issues like back pain, arthritis or mobility can get in the way, there are many things you can do to continue your hobby.

Cushions or a chair may reduce strain on your back and knees.

Tools like garden scooters and long-handled trowels may help when bending forward.

An occupational therapist can also help you figure out different ways of doing things that work best for you. These health-care professionals are trained to find strategies to keep you doing everyday activities. They assess your needs and recommend ways to adapt your environment, to learn or rebuild skills, or to use tools that make tasks easier.

In this province, all occupational therapists have to meet professional standards and be licensed by the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario. Find more information at coto.org/ot.

Woodland Ramble

4 spring home maintenance musts

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.

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-

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 ahead.

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/healthy-home.

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.

Speed photo radar potentially on the table locally

Regular Council meeting update

by Brandon Mayer

The regularly scheduled Council meeting on April 11 opened with a closed session, followed by a thorough presentation regarding the South Nation Conservation Authority provided by Bill Smirle. Another delegation, this one from MP Eric Duncan, former Mayor of North Dundas, presented a funding request for a project to restore the mural on the side of the Gathering House building in Chesterville.

One source of funding for the mural would be funding from the Mike Dean Memorial Fund, which is managed by the Township. The late Mike Dean was the founder of his namesake grocery store chain with its flagship store in Chesterville. An additional request for $4,000 from the Community Improvement Plan was made of the Township. Council was generally very positive about

the idea of restoring the mural, though Councillor Matthew Uhrig suggested that in the future, Council should consider a universal plan for deciding on such requests, and Deputy Mayor Theresa Bergeron wanted to be sure that the group seeking the funding approached community groups as well, given this year’s tight municipal budget.

Some internal policies that apply to Township staff were discussed next. This included the Delegated Authority Bylaw to specify which decisions Township staff are free to make without seeking specific permission from Council each time. Councillor John Lennox commented that it is important for Council to be kept “in the know”, and Councillor Uhrig agreed. Mayor Tony Fraser also spoke up in agreement, saying that Council needs to be routinely updated on the decisions that are made under the Delegated Authority Bylaw. He suggested a trial period, where Council sees how

things work in the short term to decide if adjustments need to be made. The Delegated Authority Bylaw was passed after Council accepted the Mayor’s suggestion.

Next, Council passed a motion that will create a more formal process for residents to request speed limit reductions in the Township. It was noted that residents often make informal requests for speed limit changes in specific areas, and this policy will establish an official form that can be filled out and a process for the request. Council then moved on to approve the 2024 municipal water and sewer budget after some discussion.

Other business discussed included the Township’s fire prevention policy, a zoning amendment request, and an update on the 2024 Regional Incentive Program applications.

Speed photo radar potentially on the table

At the end of the 2.5 hour Council meeting, Councillor Lennox gave a

very brief preliminary introduction to a proposed motion that would ratify Council’s support of an Automated Speed Enforcement (speed photo radar) system on County roads within North Dundas. Provincial law allows such technology to be used in school zones and community safety zones where the speed limit is less than 80 km/h. Speed photo radar would be expected to generate 6 fines per day on average, which would cover the cost of running the system, and studies have shown that the technology is successful in increasing speed limit compliance.

In an email sent to his fellow Council members on April 10, Councillor Lennox explains: “The OPP have conducted several micro blitzes to deter speeding and to prevent anything serious from happening. I do thank Staff Sgt Alicia Burtch and her constables for their attention to this matter, however, like everyone else, they have limited resources and

are required elsewhere.”

The Councillor also referred to a resident who observed 16 incidents of vehicles driving past a school bus with lights flashing at his residence this year alone. Councillor Lennox met with this resident, and to his shock, observed such an incident himself.

Referring to speed photo radar, Councillor Lennox wrote in his email to his colleagues: “For whatever the reason, County Council decided against passing this policy. I will be asking Council for a resolution to urge County Council to revisit this policy

and I hope to have your support… these cameras do work as I have been caught doing 60 in a 50 within Ottawa on my way to work. Now, I am well aware of my speed and can speak towards the effectiveness of deterrence these devices have.”

While the issue was not discussed by Council on April 11, it is expected to be on the table again for the next meeting.

Baldwin's Birds

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

Join Our Team!

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

613.229.7773 Finch

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

Come to the WDMH Job Fair on April 27th

Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) is hosting a Job Fair on Saturday, April 27th from 10:00

am to 2:00 pm in the Hospital lobby at the main entrance. This event is open to the community and

provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to explore potential career opportunities at WDMH. Free parking will be pro-

vided.

“We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice,” notes Cholly Boland, CEO. “We know that exceptional care for our patients involves more than good medicine. It’s about having a team that is committed to compassionate excellence.”

At the event, visitors can learn about different career opportunities, review job descriptions and even have on-thespot interviews. Bring your resume or fill out a job application onsite. There are jobs in nursing, administration, clinical research, housekeeping, food services, physician roles and volunteer opportunities. Attendees can also learn about education and training programs at WDMH, including tuition support.

“WDMH provides an inclusive and welcoming place to shine, be recognized and feel valued,” sums up Cholly Boland. “There are opportunities to advance and excel in your work and your career. Come join us!”

If you have questions about career opportuni-

Berry, Freda Mae (1925-2024)

Freda Mae (Shook) Berry at the age of 99 years, passed away peacefully at The Wedgewood Retirement Residence in Brockville, on Monday, April 8, 2024, surrounded by her children. Beloved wife of the late David Lyle Berry (1920-2010) and cherished mother of Dwaine Berry (Pat), Linda MacDonald (John) and Sharon Beery (Edgar). Loving grandmother to Evan and Erin Berry, Kathryn, Laura and Anna MacDonald, Tara and Shannon Kittle and Brittany and Casey Beery. Great grandmother to Scott, Chad, Jenna, Leif and Daisy Berry, Noah Kittle, Galen KittleMcAuliff e, Olivia and Myles Duckett, and Ava Freda Joy Doran.

Freda was born in Seeley’s Bay, Ontario. She met David in Kingston where he was serving with the Canadian Army. After marriage to David in 1945 they moved to South Mountain. Together they built and ran a successful poultry business and raised their three children. Upon retirement they moved to Iroquois, then Morrisburg, before relocating to The Wedgewood in 2009.

Freda and David, married 65 years, loved to travel and touched every continent and dozens of countries. No less than 97 albums of photographs and memorabilia document their experiences, and she enjoyed sharing her adventures with her children and grandchildren.

In compliance with her wishes, a private family service will be held at a future date, with internment at South Mountain Union Cemetery.

Many thanks to Byers Funeral Home in South Mountain for their compassion and support during this time. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Salvation Army would be gratefully acknowledged.

Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836).

Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca

ties at WDMH, please contact Brenda Fancey, Corporate Manager, Recruitment, Compensation and Benefits at 613-7742422 ext. 6330 or visit www.wdmh.on.ca/currentopportunities.

If you would like to provide comments or suggestions about hospital services, please contact Cholly Boland, President and CEO at 613.774.1049 or by email at cboland@ wdmh.on.ca.

Send

Join the fun! Be part of Hey Day 2024

by Jean Gallant

Plans are moving forward to hold one of Eastern Ontario’s largest indoor garage sales.

Called Hey Day, the sale is a fundraiser for the Kemptville District Hospital, organized and run entirely by volunteers. All money raised goes to the Hospital, which is raising funds towards the purchase of a new CT scanner, a service that will bring welcome benefits to hospital patients now and in the future.

We need over 200 volunteers to work in the 24 sections that will display garage sale items from sporting goods, clothing, toys, books, kitchenware, linens, furniture, electronics, etc., to outdoor furniture and plants. Workers are also needed to help direct traffic at the Municipal Centre, to help unload the donations from cars and to help sort items so that they find their way to the appropriate section. We also need help for the clean up on Saturday afternoon.

Last year, Hey Day attracted over 3,000 visitors who left with bargains galore at low, low prices, and big smiles on their faces. There are raffles to be won, great food at Lil’s Café, and so many interesting things to look at. It’s an Event and lots of fun!

The sale takes place on Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8, with setup and donations taking place on Wednesday, June 5 and Thursday, June 6.

Can you help in any way? If so, please contact the Kemptville Hospital Auxiliary by email at kdha.heyday@gmail. com, or call us at 613-447-4492 and we’ll get back to you.

You can also help by saving items to donate on June 5 or 6. Unfortunately, we don’t have storage space to take items in advance, but rely on folks to bring items to the Municipal Centre on the donation days. Thanks so much for keeping us in mind.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It’s just one week away and it’s going to be fun! We are pleased to announce a new Online Auction in support of the new Dundas Manor. The auction site will go live at 6 pm on Sunday, April 21st at https://bit.ly/helpbuildthenewdundasmanor and will close on Sunday, May 5th at 6 pm.

“We have a lot of great things to bid on, including some big surprises,” notes Campaign Assistant Cindy Ault Peters. “There’s something for everyone so please visit the website and get ready

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.

to start bidding on the 21st!”

The process is simple. Visit the Auction website, sign up for an account by following the steps or log into your existing account, and bid on your favourite items. You will receive a text or email notification when someone outbids you, right up to the closing time. Winners will be notified and can arrange for item pick-up through the WDMH Foundation. Payment can be made online by credit or by cash when picking up an item.

The auction also includes sealed bid items. Each par-

ticipant bids without anyone seeing or knowing the other bids. You have one chance to place your very best bid and will be notified if you have the winning one at the end of the auction. Sealed bid items will be shipped to the successful bidders at no charge.

“We are so grateful to everyone who is supporting our fundraising efforts for the new Dundas Manor. This is another way that you can get involved and make a difference – while picking up a unique gift for someone special, a Mother’s or Father’s Day gift, or maybe

something special for yourself,” sums up Cindy Ault Peters. “Happy bidding!”

For more details about the Dundas Manor campaign, please visit www.dundasmanordream.ca or contact the WDMH Foundation team at 613-774-2422 ext. 6162 or 6169. If you are a local business interested in getting involved, please call Cindy Ault Peters at 343-572-6345.

UCDSB finalist in StudyTravel Secondary School Awards

The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) International Education Program is thrilled to announce its nomination as a finalist in the prestigious StudyTravel Secondary School Awards 2024. The UCDSB has been recognized in the "High School Board/ District in Canada" category, alongside five other exceptional finalists, out of more than 100 Canadian school boards offering international education programs.

This esteemed nomination highlights the UCDSB's commitment to excellence in providing outstanding educational opportunities for students from around the world. The StudyTravel Secondary School Awards celebrate institutions that demonstrate exceptional standards in delivering highquality secondary education and supporting international students in their academic endeavours.

"We are honored to be

recognized as a finalist in the StudyTravel Secondary School Awards," said Matthew Raby, Executive Director of the Upper Canada District School Board’s International Education Program. "This nomination is a testament to our dedication to providing a welcoming and enriching educational environment for all students, and a clear recognition from colleagues in Canada and around the world of the UCDSB’s programming excellence.”

The UCDSB offers a comprehensive range of programs and services designed to meet the needs of international students, including language support, academic counseling, and cultural integration activities. The program’s commitment to fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding is reflected in its innovative curriculum and extracurricular initiatives.

The StudyTravel Secondary School Awards are widely

THE SEAWAY VALLEY SINGERS PRESENT their Spring Concert “30 YEARS OF SONG” on Friday, May 3, at 7:30 p.m. at Christian Reformed Church in Williamsburg. Adults $15 in advance ($20 at door), Students $10, 12 & under FREE. Info & tickets at www.seawayvalleysingers.ca.

Group Travel Opportunity!

Beautiful Croatia, Slovenia & Adriatic Coast

With Shelley Cumberland, OMGLetsTravel.ca

24 OCT – 05 NOV 2024 16 seats only!

Includes: tour, air from Ottawa, air taxes, 19 meals, private coach transfer from South Dundas, escort through airports, and much more. Per person rates: $6549 double. Single/triple rates on request. $150 pp discount if booked by 19 APR 2024.

Call (613) 975-1151 Email shelley@omgletstravel.ca

Looking forward to hearing from you! TICO 50026951

regarded as a benchmark of excellence within the international education community, recognizing institutions that demonstrate outstanding achievements and best practices in secondary education. The UCDSB is proud to be among the select group of finalists in this prestigious competition.

Winners of the StudyTravel Secondary School Awards will be announced at a special ceremony in London, England, on April 19, 2024, celebrating excellence in secondary education worldwide. The UCDSB extends its gratitude to the organizers and judges of the awards for this significant recognition.

For more information about the Upper Canada District School Board and its international education programs, please visit www.studyuppercanada.ca.

CHURCH Directory

To have your Church listed here please contact Nanda at nanda@ngtimes.ca

Southgate Winchester Campus

539 Main Street, Winchester Phone: 613-258-6123

https://southgatechurch.com/

Services: Sundays at 10am (Kids program for toddlers - Gr 6)

Play Group for parents of babies to preschool meets Wednesdays at 10am.

The Pulse Youth (Gr 6 -12) meets bi-weekly on Fridays at 7pm.

The Ladies Group meets bimonthly. Contact the church office for more info

THE GATHERING HOUSE

2 Water Street

Chesterville, ON K0C 1H0 613-448-1758 Sunday church service 10 am. Nursery and Sunday school available for children.

Various adult Bible studies throughout the week. Details at thegatheringhouse.ca

STEM program & Youth group Wednesdays at 6:30 pm

Playgroup drop in 10:30 am on Fridays

HUB youth drop in 7 -10 pm Fridays

Cafe Mon & Fri 9 am -4 pm Wed 12 -4 pm

Farm shows are chance to meet, learn and reconnect

by Andrea McCoyNaperstkow, Director, OFA

Even though the weather hasn’t caught up to the calendar just yet, we’ve just turned the corner into spring. It means that a new planting and growing season will shortly be upon us –but it also signals a winddown of winter, or what farmers often jokingly call “meeting season”. Farm work keeps us busy for most of the year, so it’s during the winter months that we have time to attend agricultural trade shows, commodity organization meetings, educational conferences and other farm-related events.

As farmers, this is our opportunity to meet with suppliers, learn about the latest research, check out new equipment and technologies, and connect with fellow farmers and others who work in our sector. There is no shortage of events to attend – and while they can be specific to a commodity or agricultural sector or a geographic region, there are also quite a few farm-focused events that are of interest to the broader farm community in general.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) represents close to 90% of Ontario’s farmers, so it’s only natural for our organization to have a presence at most of these events over the winter. I farm in Lanark County in Eastern Ontario where I’ve been involved in my local federation of agriculture in various roles for the

past 25 years. Last fall, I became a director on the provincial OFA board, so this winter marked my first season attending farm shows on behalf of the organization – including the big show in our area, the Ottawa Valley Farm Show, which took place earlier in March.

For me as a director, it’s a great opportunity to connect with the people I represent at the OFA board to find out what’s on their minds and share what OFA is doing to raise awareness of the issues they’re facing.

Even for others in the agriculture sector who aren’t OFA members, it’s a chance for them to tell me their story and let us make a person-to-person connection – something we all sorely missed during the COVID years.

That’s also the goal of the OFA as a whole in attending these events: engaging with our membership to let them know what we’re working on and getting their feedback on our activities on their behalf. Over this winter’s events, the OFA team fielded questions on a wide range of issues, including how they could join our organization, what member benefits we offer, and how they could access our latest resources, like our annual report or newly released information about the MTO farm guide.

There is also ongoing interest in the Farmer Wellness Initiative, a service that provides access to free, unlimited mental health counselling for farmers, their families and farm employees and their dependents by people trained in the unique stresses and challenges of the agriculture industry. OFA continues to play an active role in promoting this valuable resource, which has long been des-

The critical importance of cybersecurity for small businesses and home users

by Wallace Cinnamon

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.

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

perately needed in our industry, and we receive ongoing feedback from farmers about how they appreciate its availability.

Of course, OFA is an advocacy organization, and our primary mission is to make sure that farmers’ voices are represented on the issues that are affecting their farms and businesses.

This winter, we heard from a lot of farmers concerned about the impact of high input costs, unpredictable markets and prices, trespassing in rural areas, and increasing taxes, including the federal carbon levy, for example.

We appreciate the feedback and support of our members as we continue to work on behalf of Ontario farmers and rural communities. Agriculture, after all, is one of the most important industries in Canada, and like we’re seeing in Europe and other regions, we need to make sure we protect our ability to produce the food, fuel, fibre and flowers the world needs by keeping farms profitable, competitive and thriving.

losses and erode customer trust, which is vital for maintaining community support and loyalty.

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 sufficient 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 Dundas' largest local business network

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

Byers Funeral Home celebrates 30 years in business

by Brandon Mayer Byers Funeral Home in

South Mountain has reached the significant milestone of 30 years in business! A wellattended celebration took place on April 13 to mark the occasion for the family run business.

When asked how it feels to be celebrating 30 years, funeral director Victoria Byers answered: “It feels like quite an accomplishment to reach 30 years in business, such a milestone. I’m very fortunate to have been supported by my community over the last three decades. The time does feel like it’s flown by, it’s been challenging at times but very rewarding.”

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.

Around Town with Nanda

Have an event or special occasion that you would like photographed for the paper? Let me know. nanda@ndtimes.ca

Victoria prides herself in the funeral home’s work. “The most rewarding thing about being a funeral director is that I get to provide comfort and support during people’s most challenging, and sometimes devastating times,” she said. “It’s rewarding to know that I can help people navigate their grief and assist them in finding their closure. The most challenging part of my job is that the community I serve is a community of my friends and neighbours, which brings my own sense of grief to many of my files. At times, I have also had to assist my own family members.”

Victoria was also eager to share her attachment to her town. “South Mountain is a great community to do business in because everyone supports one another and it’s a community of kind, generous and hard working individuals,” she

Being a family run business makes everything more special. “Our business has been family run since the beginning,” said Victoria. “We pride ourselves on providing a personal touch to each family that entrusts us with their loved ones. Our business provides a very unique experience for our customers, because we believe each family is like our own family.”

explained. “I’m proud to not only have grown my business here, but also to have raised my family here.”

As the business continues to thrive, Victoria expects to continue serving the community, noting that there has been a change in trends in the funeral business toward celebrations of life. “We would love to be able to expand our chapel to provide increased reception services for our families in the future and as their needs grow,” she added. “Furthermore, as our society evolves, we would love to expand our electronic abilities to provide increased accessibility for families to participate in a variety of services.”

The turnout for the celebration on April 13 was truly heartwarming. “We were very humbled and appreciative of the support the community provided for our 30th anniversary,” emphasized Victoria. “We look forward to continuing to serve.”

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.

New awareness campaign asks Ontario growers to ‘Be Drift Aware’

As Ontario growers head to the fields this spring, they have easy access to new stewardship resources, no matter what they’re growing. A partnership between multiple farm organizations has created a new awareness campaign, Be Drift Aware.

Drift is the unintentional aerial movement of plant protection products away from the intended target. It’s an issue that can impact crop yield, crop quality and input costs. Drift can also have negative impacts on neighbouring fields and residences, livestock, sensitive natural habitats, and can cause tension among neighbours.

“Each of our organizations has shared best practice resources with our grower members over the years, and now we have pooled that information for easy access in a single location,” says Marty Vermey, senior agronomist, Grain Farmers of Ontario.

Growers and spray operators can access all resources at a new central resource hub www.BeDriftAware.ca. The website includes an online quiz and resources that are organized around three key best practices – “be size aware,” “be height aware,” and “be wind aware.”

“This campaign is an important next step to reach growers with information ranging from spray drift basics to sprayer settings and nozzle selection to truly drop the risk as low as possible,” says Brian Rideout, crop protection chair, Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association.

Anytime someone sprays, there is a possibility of unintended drift. With best practices in place, there is an opportunity to reduce the risk.

“The call to action for this campaign is simple: our partners want to reduce spray drift across Ontario by providing easy access to the information when and where growers and spray operators need it,” says Janice Janiec, farm policy analyst, Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

Be Drift Aware partners will be sharing spray drift messages and reminders throughout their established communication channels – newsletters, social posts and events – to encourage members to visit the new site to access resources about spray drift.

Be Drift Aware was created by Grain Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and CropLife Canada.

Golden Opportunities for All

by Winchester Skating Club

The Winchester Skating Club is serving up gold this year!

The Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary as an official club. It has honoured this milestone by making its events extra special.

On Saturday, March 23, the Cheers to 50 Years Ice Show was held, with skaters of all ages showing off their skills to a packed crowd.

South Mountain Lodge donates to Easter Seals Campaign

submitted by Richard Pickard

On Sunday, February 4th, 2024 at the Easter Seals Campaign held at the Kemptville Snowmobile Klub, our Noble Grand Ron Derraugh presented a cheque for a $500.00 donation on behalf of South Mountain Lodge # 428.

We invited Victim Services of SD&G to our meeting to share information with us about their service. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to providing assistance to individuals who have been victimized as a result of a crime or tragic circumstance. Their agency works in partnership with police, emergency services, and other communitybased organizations to ensure that victims receive the help they need for their personal path to recovery.

As a result, we donated a cheque of $1,000.00 to their organization.

Hosted by Canadian Olympian Elizabeth Manley, the two shows were fast paced and fun to watch. From the newest skaters to the adult group, skaters took the audience on a trip down memory lane, with music covering the decades since the 1970s.

The annual awards banquet was held on Saturday, April 6, again celebrating the last 50 years. Featuring catering from Simply Baked, skaters were recognized for their hard work and achievements. A slideshow and a photo collage displayed pictures and costumes over the years.

The Club is proud of its skaters and cannot wait to see what the next decade brings!

(l-r):

Wardens’ Caucus welcomes Keeping Energy Costs Down act

The Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus (EOWC) supports Minister of Energy Todd Smith’s announcement regarding the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024. The proposed act will promote the long-term viability and success of eastern Ontario by keeping construction costs down while working towards a net zero energy system in Ontario. The legislation will ensure that stakeholder engagement is increased and

regulatory decisions will include considerations that contribute to social and economic outcomes.

Eastern Ontario is experiencing significant growth which requires the gas pipeline network to expand.

Current thresholds result in delays in natural gas access for development sites in rural municipalities. This legislation will expedite critical infrastructure projects, ensuring continued

growth and prosperity in rural communities.

“The EOWC is pleased to see the move toward modernizing regulations that cause unnecessary delays and costs. Our region continues to see significant growth and pressures to build. This legislation will get shovels in the ground and support rural opportunities," said EOWC Chair Peter Emon.

By modernizing outdated regulations, delays and

costs for economic development initiatives will be reduced, benefiting industries seeking to establish or expand in Ontario, transit projects, community expansion, housing developments, and low-carbon fuel blending.

This proposed legislation and the EOWC’s strong support comes following a meeting with Parliamentary Assistant Stéphane Sarrazin at the January 2024 Rural Ontario Municipal Asso-

ciation Conference around modernizing the construction approval process as a critical EOWC priority.

The EOWC is the regional voice for 103 municipalities across rural eastern Ontario, representing one quarter of Ontario’s municipalities. The EOWC is an incorporated non-profit organization representing 800,000 residents covering an area of 50,000 square kilometres from Northum-

berland County to the Québec border. The EOWC has gained support and momentum by speaking with a united voice to champion regional municipal priorities and work with the government, business leaders, the media, and the public. For more information, visit eowc.org.

Ian McLaughan, Easter Seals District manager; Ron Derraugh, Noble Grand; Bruce Robinson, Kemptville Snowmobile Klub Volunteer.

(front, from left): Melissa Ruffo, Mary Burns. (rear, from left): Richard Gilmer, Bill Williams, Victor Hughes, Richard Pickard, Ron Derraugh, Claude Brisebois, Roger Francis