ND Times Issue 16 2021 April 28

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The Voice of North Dundas

Vol 2, No 16

April 28, 2021

Digital Archives project to be launched May 3

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On May, 3 the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry (SDG) will be hosting a virtual launch of an archival project that will feature 200,000 pages of local SDG newspapers, and 2,000 photos of lost

villages from the area.

This has been a huge project that was spearheaded by Member of Parliament, Eric Duncan, before he became an elected MP. The project began 3 years ago with efforts to source archival material including

the newspapers. Once the newspapers were sourced, they had to be organized and repaired due to the ravages of time. The newspapers, which mostly contain local stories from the area, were sent away to be digitized. The material within

this digital format will be accessible to everyone, and will likely be a delight to local researchers.

This project was a joint effort by Glengarry County Archives, the Lost Villages historical society, and the Dundas County Archives.

It was funded by the United Counties Council, along with the very generous support of the Lions Clubs and Legions of Dundas County.

The Dundas County Archives alone have more than 200,000 pages of newspapers scanned, dating as far back at the 1860's. For more information, or to register for the digital launch of this project, contact: Todd Lihou, Corporate Communications Coordinator, at tlihou@sdgcounties.ca

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The North Dundas Times

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Double your Dandelions introduced from Europe, and at times in the spring they are our most conspicuous alien species. Dandelions mostly don't reproduce sexually, but produce seeds asexually by apomixis, without pollination, resulting in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent plant. This means that species limits are arbitrary, and the Flora of North America gives the number of species in the genus at something between 60 and 2000, which may be a world-record level of disagreement. Clones, or "microspecies" which have adaptive characteristics can take over uniform habitats: those that hug the ground dominate lawns, while those that reach upwards with big leaves are found in woodsy places. Since they don't require pollination, selection among clones may favour those with reduced nectar and pollen production, explaining their relative unattractiveness to pollinators.

Back in the day, the only difference noticed among southern Ontario Dandelions, by those who didn't do

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Photo by Aleta KarstadOldfield Dandelion (Taraxacum palustre), Bishops Mills Fred Schueler, Fragile Inheritance Natural History There are a number of native Dandelions in northern North America, but in Ontario, south of some islands in Lake Superior, all our Dandelions, genus Taraxacum, are

microspecies, was between the otherwise nearly identical Common (T. officinale) and Red-seeded (T. erythrospermum) plants, but in 1989 Ottawa botanist Dan Brunton published an account of Dandelions, in a different section of the genus, T. palustre, the Marsh, Fen, or Oldfield Dandelion, that he'd found in eastern Ontario and northern New York. This species was conspicuously different from the ordinary T. officinale in the shape of the flowerheads, because instead of folding back from the bloom, the bracts, or phyllaries, clasp the base of the flowerhead in a dark bulge. Also the leaves are quite thin, and are nowhere near as toothed as in our other Dandelions, and many of the plants are small.

"Palustre" means marshy, and while along a grassy roadside they're the ones down near the water level in the flooded portion of the ditch, they're especially abundant in shallow-soil old-field limestone barrens, where conditions alternate between soggy and parched.

Botanists are often ac-

cused of getting excited about insignificant matters, and the point of bringing these Dandelions to public notice is that they are among our earliest-flowering plants, and the palustre bloom a few days before the officinale, so they may be the first blooms you see in a spring. After a while you can pretty well recognize the T. palustre from above by their less-toothed leaves and subtle differences in the flowerhead, and you can then stoop down, see the dark round base of the bloom, welcome a new species to the landscape, and be a bit glad that it was first recognized by an eastern Ontario botanist.

And yes, Virginia, all parts of all Dandelions are edible and delicious, and you can read about how we prepare them at https://adaptating.blogspot.com/2019/05/ the-dandelion-diet.html (by the way, you can now read that ordinary Dandelions having red seeds is a repeatedly occurring mutation, so the old distinction of red- and brownseeded species may have been spurious).

5 tips for effective remote learning (NC) As schools continue with virtual learning, most parents are looking for new ways to keep their kids engaged and on track.

Fortunately, there are some simple tips and tricks that can help. Stay ahead of the learning curve with these simple remote learning tips.

1. Keep to a school schedule.

School time means structured time, and maintaining that schedule will be your best tool to separate class time from playtime.

Using a timer to clearly block off chunks of time for work and breaks will do wonders for your child’s study discipline.

2. Create designated environments.

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Create effective habits and provide dedicated spaces for learning. Set aside part of the home for your child’s workspace and let them unwind somewhere else. If space is tight, even a small corner or table blocked off from everything else can create that mental separation needed for focusing.

3. Get creative with new tools.

Sometimes all it takes is something new to keep kids motivated. For example, some colourful binders with their favourite characters can help with organization, a white noise app can help with concentration.

If your child doesn’t use every tool provided, that’s okay. The important thing

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is introducing them to the importance of finding the right tools to stay productive.

4. Communicate with teachers.

The relationship between parents and teachers has never been more essential to your kids’ success at school. So, make sure you’re regularly checking in to see what’s working and what needs improvement. Whether it’s email, a phone call or video call, find what works and stick to it.

5. Make sure your connection is up to snuff.

Even the best remote learning setup can fall prey to a poor internet connection. This can be especially challenging in rural or remote areas. But help is on the way. The government’s Universal Broadband Fund is focused on making sure Canadians all have access to reliable high-speed connection needed to study remotely. The faster connection will help your child stay on track, no matter what the challenge.

Find more information at canada.ca/getconnected. www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Community Food Share supports 1000 people

by Joselyn Morley Community Food Share held their Annual General Meeting via Zoom on April 19. Community Food Share is the food bank that serves the counties of Dundas and Stormont. Their vision is that no one in our community should go hungry. They provide healthy, nutritious food, including meat, fresh produce, frozen vegetables, dairy products, eggs, packaged foods, and staples.

Clients can receive 7 or 8 days worth of food each month. Community Food Share supports almost 1000 clients regularly. One third of these people are under the age of eighteen. Many are seniors or people who receive disability assistance, but most of the clients are employed in low-wage jobs, the very jobs that are vulnerable to economic uncertainty.

Food banks in the past

were seen as a way of providing some basic non-perishable food to those who experienced misfortune. Today, however, food insecurity is systemic, pervasive, and persistent. Food banks are now part of a regular food distribution system. Community Food Share also provides advocacy support for their clients.

Chair Jim Wilson thanked the staff which includes; Team Leader, Jane Schoones; Client Coordinator, Amy Saunders; and Site Attendant, Adelle Densham. He also thanked both private and institutional donors. Donations tripled in 2020 over 2019. Habitually, half of the food received came from donations of food during food drives, with the other half coming from cash donations or donations in kind from the community.

Through 2020, food drives were not allowed because of the pandemic, so most of the food had to be purchased,

much of it from local grocers.

Customers could buy a bag of groceries at a set price at Foodland in Winchester, for example. Meat, dairy, and eggs also comes from large food processors through Feed Ontario.

Donations were up substantially in 2020. There was great support from the community through the pandemic.

Community Food Share received donations through the North Dundas Christmas Fund, and the 100 Men and 100 Women Who Care. There was also COVID-19 pandemic relief funding from all three levels of government through Feed Ontario and Food Banks Canada. Understandably though, expenses were also up substantially, as there were a lot of people who required assistance during 2020. We are well into 2021, the pandemic is still very much a reality, and people are still in need of assistance.

Going forward in these uncer-

tain times, and not knowing what an economic recovery will look like, it is hoped that the community will continue to support Community Food Share, as they have through 2020.

Community Food Share in Winchester needs to expand to a larger, more efficient building. Their commitment to a healthy diet, including fresh food, necessitates an investment in significant infrastructure, including refrigeration capacity, protection from loss of power, and a variety of other equipment.

They can access expansion grants through the provincial and federal organizations, such as Feed Ontario and Food Banks Canada. They will also be looking for support from the community. For a membership, the fee is $15 for an individual, or $35 for a family. Membership fees help support Community Food Share, and also let you vote at the AGM.

SDG Counties Council meets with provincial and federal representatives

by Joselyn Morley On April 21, the United Counties Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry (SDG) Council held a special meeting. They invited our MPP Jim McDonell, MP Eric Duncan, and Dr Paul Roumeliotis from the Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU). The purpose of the meeting was to allow the Councillors to ask questions about the pandemic, specific to our area.

The Counties Council is made up of the Mayors and Deputy Mayors of the all six counties.

Mayor Fraser and Deputy Mayor Armstrong represent North Dundas, and were both present at the meeting to ask questions on behalf of area residents.

It's safe to say that many of the Councillors don't feel like our area of Eastern Ontario is getting the attention that it needs. They were quick to point out that we are not Peel, or Toronto. Deputy Mayor Armstrong asked MPP McDonell, "where is our voice in Ontario." As small rural towns in Eastern Ontario, it is a common refrain that, "Ontario doesn't end at Kingston."

MPP McDonell briefed the Councillors on the current state of affairs, blaming a lack of vaccine supply, vaccine hesitancy in areas like Peel, and reiterating that everyone needs to stay home. CounApril 28, 2021

cillors are concerned that SDG is only getting vaccines to 6 pharmacies, whereas neighbouring Lanark, Leeds, Grenville had 24. They asked if, SDG was getting the same amount of vaccine per capita as other areas.

Dr Paul was very unhappy that the EOHU had no say in the roll out of vaccines in pharmacies. MPP McDonell assured everyone that all the pharmacies could be giving vaccines tomorrow if the availability was there. His remarks did not address the infrastructure required to support pharmacies in delivering the vaccine.

Councillors wanted to know why people can come from outside our area to get vaccines at pharmacies. Dr Paul explained that anyone in Ontario can get a vaccine from any pharmacy when available, providing they fit the age parameters.

Mayor Fraser drew attention to the abysmal lack of internet capabilities in our area. The Ministry of Health needed a secure internet connection in order to carry out the vaccination clinics at the Winchester Arena. It was very difficult for the Ministry due to the awful internet in our area. Anyone working from home, or trying to navigate online schooling, is well aware of this.

Councillors were upset by the mandatory closures of small businesses such

as barbers, restaurants, or golf courses. They wanted to know why rural and small town Eastern Ontario, is being treated in the same way as the big centres like Toronto or Peel. They wanted to know why a small business such as a barber shop, who could serve one client at a time, or a restaurant with a patio that could offer outdoor dining and social distancing would have to close.

MPP McDonell answered that this virus is spread more easily inside, and we only need to stay closed for a few more weeks.

The exchange became quite heated at several points.

Councillors expressed concerns that their needs are not being met and their voices are not being heard by the province. There was frustration around what they see as a double standard. Although MPP McDonell said that big box stores were only selling food and pharmacy items, many councillors said that big box stores were not being policed. Dr Paul said that he had worked with the OPP to lay charges following some recent anti-mask gatherings in Alexandria and Cornwall.

The Councillors were pleased to know that action was being taken, and asked to be kept informed.

MPP McDonell said that by the end of May, everyone will be vaccinated if they want it, even though the

province is still now calling on the federal government to deliver vaccines to deal with a shortage.

Councillors were very emphatic that they want adequate enforcement at waterfront and parks this coming summer, as last summer it was very difficult to manage people who were coming from other areas to avoid their own areas which were under lockdown, or facing stricter restrictions. MP Eric Duncan was adamant that everything outside be open and available, with proper and appropriate social distancing measures in place, because people need to be outside for health and mental well-being.

The municipal parks, waterfront, the St Lawrence Parks, the Conservation Authorities' areas, all need to be open this summer. Councillors, MPP McDonell, and MP Duncan all agreed that international travel at airports should be more strictly controlled, quoting Premier Ford as saying the virus didn't walk in here.

The Councillors were grateful that MP Duncan, MPP McDonell, and Dr Paul took time out of their very busy evening, and on such short notice, to attend this meeting with the Councillors.

Thank You

We wish to express sincere thanks to our family, friends and neighbours during this difficult time following the death of our daughter "Laura Brant".

We will be forever thankful to all who reached out to us with words of comfort, cards, food, phone calls, floral tributes and donations to charities. A very special thank you to Father Cosmas for the beautiful service and Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home in Williamsburg for their professionalism and kindness shown to our entire family during our time of sorrow.

Allan and Colleen Porteous & Family

Tid-Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW To handle dissension or distress, the human being will often deploy what is known as "defense mechanisms." These mechanisms are unconscious psychological techniques designed to protect us from uncomfortable feelings. Life is a journey and includes many feelings. Identifying our response is the key to healthier communications.

Denial is one of the most common mechanisms. In denial you refute any acknowledgment of the discomfort. If you admit to the action, then you are consciously obligated to bring about change. Denial is very prevalent amongst addictions.

On the opposite end of the scale is regression. In cases of abuse, you often see individuals assume the fetal position, or emit a stutter, or another speech impairment can surface, dominating communication. Signs could also manifest as bedwetting for the otherwise trained individuals.

Rationalization is often a common coping mechanism.

Finding a plausible explanation for the behavior encompasses what may be deemed a socially acceptable excuse. The child failed because the test was too hard, rather than the child did not study; or the officer was hiding around a curve so caught you speeding.

Some people project their unacceptable characteristics, behaviors or urges onto others. Frequently, we hear “the devil made me do it”, instead of “I chose to do it”.

All too frequently, we experience individuals displacing their emotions such as anger, hostility or aggression from the original situation onto every other event that day or night.

Just because you woke up late, the dog does not deserve to be kicked that night, nor do your spouse's culinary skills need to be subject to negativity!

Other folks have mastered the art of suppression. They consciously do not consider the event or feeling by refusing to think about it. Inaccurately, they believe, “If I do not acknowledge what is happening, then it must not be happening.” This is frequently associated with health issues.

Sometimes it is easier to see those defense mechanisms in action in others rather than in ourselves. Since life is a journey, take the time to treasure yourself by identifying how you may be dealing with scenarios. Change is always possible, even if it means engaging with a professional to work through the issues. If you don't treasure yourself, no one else will. Go for it!

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Editorial

The North Dundas Times

Parents need our support now

by Lorraine Rekmans The federal budget this year has made a substantial investment into childcare with a proposal to make the cost of childcare affordable at $10 a day.

The call for a universal childcare program has been on the books for several decades, coming officially from the Royal Commission on the Status of Women, 51 years ago.

Canada's federalist structure has been a long-time barrier to the implementation of universal, or national programs. When the federal government tries to implement national programs, it is often faced by resistance from the provinces because of the division of powers and

jurisdictions set out in Canada's Constitution. Whether it is a proposal to create uniformity in the delivery of health services, a national long term care strategy, or childcare, the provinces always resist federal intervention to protect their own jurisdictions.

In 1997, the province of Quebec created its own day care program, as part of a package of family reforms that included the provision of parental leave benefits.

The program was intended to provide support to families, and enable women to re-enter the workforce, and it did meet that end, with results showing in greater employment and GDP for Quebec. The province created more than 230,000 spaces.

The importance of childcare isn't just to ensure families are able to work, and to increase mothers' labor force participation rates, but to also provide educational settings and development opportunities for our youngest Canadians.

In this pandemic, families across the country are struggling, with parents work-

many, nor is it a solution for families.

There should be no gaps in our social policies when it comes to support for children and families. The services in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta, must be equal to the services for families in all provinces and territories in this federation.

What possible reason could Ontario have for dragging its heels on implementing affordable daycare? In this post-pandemic, economic recovery that seems to be moving farther and farther away down that tunnel, where the light is supposed to be, we are going to need all hands on deck. How could we ever manage to plan an economic recovery without implementing affordable childcare?

There is no rational sense to excluding nearly half of a possible workforce because Ontario won't invest in affordable childcare. There is no rational sense to treat Canadians differently because provincial governments want to protect their turf. Some things, like the provision of education, health care, and

ing from home, and trying to navigate their children through the technology of virtual learning. The stress must be intense for parents, who are working, child rearing, educating and self isolating.

The pressures to perform all these roles well is immense.

In this pandemic, we salute the frontline workers, the essential workers, and we never see the invisible heroes, who are at home, managing more than any parent should be expected to manage.

Schools have been opened, and closed, and opened again so often that parents don't know if they are coming or going. The parents who are essential workers, and cannot work from home, are left scrambling to find childcare, in a situation where we are all told to not mingle, and to isolate.

As a grandparent, like many grandparents these days, I find myself filling in the gaps where our social policies have failed our families. I am grateful that I am able to provide care for my grandchildren when needed.

But this is not an option for

United Counties SDG Council Meeting

by Joselyn Morley The United Counties Stormont Dundas Glengary (SDG) Council met for their regular monthly meeting via Zoom on April 19.

Councillors discussed amendments to the policy and terms of reference of the Regional Incentives Program. Adjustments were made to the parameters and criteria of applications, in part to ensure that there was no duplication, and that all available grant money could be accessed. The applications are evaluated by a committee, comprised of lay people and Councillors, then the committee makes recommendations to Council. After quite a bit of discussion, it was affirmed that the final decisions regarding funding would rest with Council.

One Councillor reminded the table that it is taxpayers’ money, and the councillors are the elected officials entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that money is well spent. Much of the discussion centred around transparency and accountability, with the table trying to find a balance between letting the committee do their work to evaluate the best apApril 28, 2021

plications, and ensuring that council maintains control over taxpayers’ dollars.

Councillors also debated whether the lay appointees to the committee hold positions for two or four years. Those in favour of four years argued that a lot of commitment and time is invested in serving on a committee, and that it seems a shame to replace someone after significant time and passion has been invested.

Those in favour of two year appointments argued that two years would allow a person to be replaced that was not serving the committee well.

Everyone agreed that the option of a second two year term was appropriate.

Habitat for Humanity has asked SDG for either a piece of land to be donated, or a financial donation. The Council decided to donate $1000, as they cannot find a suitable piece of land for Habitat for Humanity.

The Councillors dis-

cussed the future renovation needs of the historic jail and warden's house. Currently the complex could accommodate six offices, but it requires renovations. They discussed how extensive the renovations should be. There is lots of potential in the space, but there are some significant roadblocks to overcome. Understandably, when it was a jail, the lock-up part was not directly connected to the rest of the complex. That makes a lot of sense when it is a jail, but is an inconvenience for an office space, not to mention an accessibility nightmare.

Part of the problem with making decisions about how to go forward, is that in the age of COVID-19, it is not appropriate to do site visits, for example. This makes envisioning what is needed, or what could be done, very difficult. Prudently, the Council is postponing any major decisions until they can go and have a look and understand

what is needed, and what is recommended. They have voted to replace roofing with slate-look shingles.

The Councillors discussed the position of SDG in the Ontario political landscape. There was quite a bit of concern expressed about what they see as lack of representation by our MPP at the provincial table. The words "Ontario doesn't stop at Kingston," has been heard a few times lately, meaning that some Councillors feel unrepresented and forgotten.

They want to know where their voice is at the provincial table. They agreed to ask MPP Jim McDonell, MP Eric Duncan, and Dr Paul from EOHU to attend a meeting to discuss issues important to SDG. That meeting was scheduled for two days later, on April 21 at 6:30 pm.

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childcare services, deserve a universal approach across the country. I would expect that my child would receive an equal education no matter what region of Canada they live in. I would expect the same level of health care from the system, no matter what region of Canada I live in.

Why must we look with envy, to provinces that have better social programs than we do?

What is the point of a fed-

Hayley Bedford

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Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

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Family dispute leads to charges On April 17, 2021 shortly after 4:00 p.m Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Ontario Provincial Police officers responded to a report of family dispute in South Glengarry Township. Investigation revealed that a male youth had stolen money from a family member at the location. The youth was also breaching previous release conditions.

A 16 -year-old male of South Stormont, Ontario was arrested and is charged with: Theft Over $5000- Criminal Code Sec. 334(a) Theft under $5000 - CC Sec. 334(b) Fail to comply with sentence - CC Sec. 137 The name of the accused is being withheld in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Cornwall June 17, 2021.

Domestic Assault charges laid On April 18, 2021 shortly after 7:00 p.m Stormont Dundas & Glengarry Ontario Provincial Police officers responded to a report of domestic situation in South Dundas Township.

Investigation revealed that an adult male accused had struck his ex-girlfriend and left the residence. The accused had also damaged the victim's property. The accused was located driving on County Road 31.

Further Investigation revealed that the adult driver was under the influence of alcohol.

A 46-year-old male, of Osgoode, Ontario was arrested and is charged with; Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs - Criminal Code - Sec. 320.14(1)(a) Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration 80 plus - Criminal Code - Sec 320.14(1)(b) Assault - CC sec. 266 Mischief - CC Sec. 430(4) Driving motor vehicle with open container of liquor - LLA Sec 32(1) The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Cornwall on May 25, 2021.

Anyone having information on the above incidents or any other crime is asked to call SD&G OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Seaway Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477) or you can submit a TIP online at www.seawayvalleycrimestoppers.ca ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

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eration, if we are all treated differently in our respective provinces and territories?

And, to those parents out there who are living with these daily challenges to put food on the table, and be your child's teacher’s aide, IT expert, parent, cook, and friend, we salute you. You are the invisible heroes in this pandemic.

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The North Dundas Times

Development could impact species in the South Nation Watershed

by Joselyn Morley One morning, I looked out my window to see my dogs barking at a big, flat rock in the grass. They're not the brightest dogs, but even for them, that warranted some investigation. I dragged the dogs in, and waited a while.

Sure enough, the big old snapping turtle eventually stuck her head out, and continued her slow crawl back towards the river. Another time while I was gardening, I looked up to see one of my dogs trotting along proudly with a treasure in her mouth. It was a painted turtle. She'd picked it up very gently from above. When I returned it to the riverbank with a quick apology on behalf of

my dopey dogs, it was most likely mad, but unharmed.

Eight species of turtles call Ontario home. Seven of those species are endangered, threatened, or designated as a species of special concern.

Wetlands are threatened in Ontario, due to development, draining watersheds and floodplains, agriculture, road building and expansion, mining, dumping and pollution, damming, and climate change. Turtles are threatened by the same forces that destroy their habitat. Alongside threats from natural predators such as raccoons or skunks, turtles are vulnerable due to habitat loss, hunting and poaching, and roads. Seven of these species of turtles can be found in the South Nation

Watershed.

The Wood turtle, listed as endangered in Ontario, is the only turtle we do not find here. Turtles endangered in Ontario found in the South Nation Watershed are the Spotted Turtle, the Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle, and the Blanding's Turtles. The other four, which are designated as species of Special Concern, are the Northern Map Turtle, the Eastern Musk Turtle (or Stinkpot Turtle), the Snapping Turtle, and the Painted Turtle. They take 8 to 25 years to reach maturity, most live to 30 or 40 years, but some over 100. The sex of many turtles is dependent on incubation temperature. Long hot summers result in more female turtles, and is just one more way that climate change threatens this species.

Depending on the species, only between 1 and 7 of every 10 000 turtle eggs make it to adulthood. That is 0.01% to 0.07% survival rate. Turtles are killed in large numbers on Ontario roadways, as the adults lay eggs in the sand or gravel along the sides of roads and highways. The adult is vulnerable to traffic making the trek, and hatchlings can be hit as they make their way to the water.

Turtles on the road can look like bumps, rocks, or oil on the road. If you see one, give it space. Turn on your hazard lights to warn others.

If if is safe to do so, you can help the turtle cross the road, always in the direction that it is travelling. Pick it up by holding both its plastron (underside) and carapace (topside) of the shell. Helping a turtle digging on the side of the road takes a while. Don't move it. Just stick around if possible, and keep it safe from cars. Never pick up a turtle by its tail. You can dislocate its spine. Snapping turtles are a challenge to move, but it's possible. Far back on the shell where the top meets the bottom, there is a place to grab firmly. They have really long necks, and can reach far. Don't pick it up unless you're confident. They crack if dropped on pavement! You can use a car mat, or blanket.

Move the turtle onto the sheet, turn it around, and drag the mat or sheet backwards. Turn the turtle back to the way it was headed after it's safely across.

An injured turtle needs medical attention ASAP. If you find an injured turtle, call the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre at 705-741-5000.

Put the injured turtle in a well-ventilated plastic container with a secure lid. Do not give it food or water. Note the location. Do the same for a deceased turtle. A female

Dr. Genevieve Casey Geriatrician Dr. Genevieve Casey believes in helping seniors in our region live their best lives. Now, she has joined the WDMH team, providing a monthly Geriatric Clinic for local patients.

The clinic is coordinated through Home and Community Support Services Champlain.

“When we talk about geriatric concerns, we often talk about the 5 M’s,” explains Dr. Casey. “These April 28, 2021

ecologically significant area, for example. It changed how the species was looked at geographically, discounting distinct isolated populations, and the status of a species in Ontario.

A species status in Ontario can be ignored if there is a population elsewhere. Previous deadlines for designating a species at risk have been extended, and acceptance of repeated delays have been built into the system. Even after officially listing a species, the act allows a "delay of prohibitions upon initial listing," allowing a further year’s delay. A further "temporary suspension of protection upon initial listing" allows the Minister the power to suspend protection for another three years. Under the guise of streamlining construction process, a broad landscape agreement allows for multiple activities on a larger geographical area under one permit. There are no limits on the size of a project, or the extent of activities. Finally, developers can pay into a Species-at-Risk Conservation Fund in exchange for habitat destruction. Payment to the Fund allows unchecked destruction.

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New Geriatrician supports patients both in-person and virtually include Mind (concerns such as dementia or depression), Mobility (perhaps frequent falls), Medication (looking at the list and how they might interact), Medical Complexity (a patient’s overall health picture), and Matters Most (looking at each patient’s goals and how we can reach them). I want to get to know each patient and work with them to meet their needs.”

In addition, Dr. Casey also provides consultations for WDMH physicians.

Dr. Casey went to medical school in London, England.

She completed her residency in Internal Medicine as well as specialized training in Geriatrics at the University of Ottawa. Her practice is based at The Ottawa Hospital. Special interests include dementia, frailty, proper use of medication, and end-oflife care.

turtle could have eggs that could be incubated. Call the Centre.

The Eastern Box turtle is listed as vulnerable under the Species at Risk Ontario (SARO) listing. Ontario's Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 2007 allowed for an assessment of a species' status by the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO). It is comprised of an independent scientific committee working in conjunction with Indigenous knowledge holders.

Once a species was classified

by COSSARO as threatened or endangered, it received a level of automatic legal protection. The ESA was far from perfect, but it was considered to have some power, especially when compared with other provinces.

In June 2019, the Ontario government passed the More Homes, More Choice Act, declaring that "many will be able to realize their dream of homeownership, while renters will see lower costs."

This act significantly crippled the ESA in several ways. The integrity of COSSARO was sacrificed by allowing input from individuals with claims to "community knowledge."

This can include anyone with interest in developing an

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Patients must be referred to Dr. Casey by their family doctor via Home and Community Support Services Champlain.

If you would like to provide comments or suggestions about hospital services, please contact Cholly Boland, President and CEO, Winchester District Memorial Hospital at 613-774-1049 or by email at cboland@wdmh.on.ca.

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What's sowing…

Between 1996 and2016, Ontario lost 1.5 million acres of farmland to development Peggy Brekveld, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Do you know where your food comes from? It’s a simple question with a surprisingly complex answer.

Our food security and the economies that rely on it are dependent on a complicated agricultural supply chain – one that starts on the farm and ends at the dinner table.

However, this doesn’t tell the whole story. No matter where or when you are talking about it, there is one truth about farmers everywhere – you cannot farm without farmland. Whether you are talking about your morning toast, the cream in your coffee, the chicken on your dinner plate or the apple slices in your children’s lunch – all of these ingredients depend on Ontario farmers and Ontario farmland.

Protecting and preserving the land that grows these products is a key priority of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). Agricultural land is a finite and shrinking resource the agri-food sector depends on to effectively produce food, fibre and fuel for Ontario, Canada and the world. Farmers continue to be the definition of innovation, producing more yield with less inputs. With advances in technology and

new, innovative techniques, farmers have become increasingly efficient at maximizing the productivity of farmland.

However, urban sprawl continues to threaten the sustainability and viability of our sector. Today, Ontario farmers grow and produce more than 200 different commodities and the industry employs nearly 1 million workers in food production and processing. Additionally, the agri-food sector contributes $47 billion annually to the provincial economy.

Over the past 25 years, Ontario has lost farmland at an alarming rate. To put the problem into perspective, according to OMAFRA’s data collected from the 2016 Census of Agriculture, from 1996-2016, Ontario lost 1.5 million acres of farmland to development, at a daily rate loss of 175 acres per day — roughly the size of 135 football fields. That works out to be an average of five farms per week lost to development in an effort to keep pace with Ontario’s growing population.

The rate at which our province is losing agricultural land is not sustainable.

Especially given the fact that less than 5% of Ontario’s land base can support agricultural production of any kind. With the demand to increase the

production of food, fibre and fuel for an ever-growing population, farmers struggle as our finite resources continue to diminish.

With the development of farmland, jobs are being lost, resources are becoming limited, and our agri-food system is experiencing more pressure to be sparing with their land.

This can all have extremely detrimental effects on the security of food production in Ontario.

Over the past two years, we have seen an increase in the use of Minister’s Zoning Orders (MZOs). MZOs allow the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing the ability to bypass previous planning rules in order to change the zoning of a piece of property.

Since the start of the pandemic, there have been over six MZOs issued that have directly impact farmland.

The Ontario government is using MZOs to permit lowdensity housing subdivisions, nursing homes, warehouses, factories, and other nonagriculture uses on productive farmland, contributing to urban sprawl with projects better suited to an urban landscape.

OFA urges the government to prioritize the protection and preservation of viable farmland used to grow grains, fruits and vegetables

and raise our livestock for meat, poultry and dairy. Canada is one of the very few developed countries that can currently meet the food requirements of our population while continuing to export to other areas of the world.

We saw the importance of this during the early days of the COVID-19 crisis when borders closed, and store shelves ran dangerously low on supplies. This raised awareness about the importance of food security and food sovereignty. Consumers have gained a newfound appreciation for food that comes from local producers. The increased use of MZOs has the potential to jeopardize the future of our domestic food supply.

The loss of farmland affects both producers and consumers, threatening the supply of our domestic food production. Similar to how we view climate change, policymakers need to look to the future. When it comes to farming, OFA wants to ensure the next generation has the resources and land to produce food, fibre and fuel for the future.

Land use planning matters; where our food comes from matters too. When we lose agricultural land to urban sprawl, it is lost forever.

CUPE decries province’s hospital cuts submitted by Canadian Union of Public Employees The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the longstanding capacity issues in Ontario's hospital system created by successive provincial governments' under-funding hospital care and cutting 20,000 beds. But under the Progressive Conservative’s health funding plan laid out in its March budget, things are going to get much worse, says a Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) research paper, Ontario Hospital Crisis: Overcapacity and Under Threat. The research report was released on April 26th.

The report projects staff April 28, 2021

and funding cuts for eastern Ontario hospitals in Quinte/ Brockville, Cornwall, Ottawa, Pembroke and Kingston as examples of the depth of the cuts that are projected.

"As these ongoing cuts take hold, year after year for the next decade, Ontario's hospitals will stagger as an aging and growing population pits far too many very sick patients against its weakening capacity, says Michael Hurley president of CUPE's Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU/CUPE). "Patients will be at risk. There will be no surge capacity. This government has learned nothing from the COVID pandemic."

The Ontario 2021 Budget

plans to cut COVID health care funds by $3.25 billion.

But, even that will be dwarfed by the cuts that will be required if the government's funding plans are implemented from 2021-2030, according to the report that uses the government's own data to extrapolate the projections.

The report paints a pretty bleak picture for Ontario, “in which patients get even less bedside care and are at much higher risk of hallway medicine, under-staffing, readmissions, hospital acquired infestions and medical errors, problems that aready bedevil Ontario hospitals.”

Contact Joselyn Morley if you need an event covered. joselyn@ndtimes.ca 613-989-1980

by Joselyn Morely April's weather can be all over the place! In the space of a week, it can go from sunny and warm, to rainy and windy, to downright snowy and cold! What is a gardener to do? Be patient. And never plant all of your seeds at once! No matter how warm and sunny it gets, resist the urge to plant out your tender seedlings. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants should not be planted out until Victoria Day. The average last frost date for our area is May 11 according to OMAFRA (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs). That means there is a 50% chance of having frost after that date. In May 2020, the temperature reached a low of minus 5 degrees C on the night of May 12, and a high of 35 on May 27. Yes, those are outliers, but those outliers are going to kill your plants! The big box stores often bring their plants out as early as possible, so people see tomato seedlings and petunias in the stores, or their neighbours' window boxes, and worry that they're late. Relax! Remember, the big box stores benefit if your plants die, because then you will go buy more! Save your money, and your seedlings. Climate change is making extreme weather more common, so we may be seeing more freak cold snaps in May, or a heatwave in April. Some people will wait until June 1 to plant peppers outside as they can get shocked by the cold, and stop growing. If we get a late frost, you can cover your plants, but they won't survive a freeze. Any tender seedlings that were planted early last year, froze on May 12.

You can direct sow your frost-hardy crops such as lettuces, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, peas and kale now, either seeds or seedlings. The semi-frost-hardy crops such as beets, carrots, cauliflower or celery, can go in beginning to mid May. Tomatoes, beans, and other semi-frost-tender crops can go in by Victoria Day. Most people direct sow beans, but you'll want tomato seedlings in our zone. Finally, frost-tender plants such as eggplant and pepper seedlings, as well as crops like pumpkins, squash, cucumbers, and melons are best left to the first of June. Many people put everything tender in by Victoria Day and cross their fingers!

Similarly, don't put the tender flowers out until the tomatoes and peppers are out. Just like vegetables, some flowers will tolerate a little frost and cold, such as pansies, marigolds, geraniums, and the perennials that have made it through the winter, like iris. Other flowers, such as impatiens or begonias, will shrivel and die.

Don't forget a good trellis for your pole beans, and if you have indeterminate tomato varieties, why not try trellising them? They will continue to grow up, as long as they have support. What are you sowing? Joselyn@ndtimes.ca. Come join us on Facebook at Winchester Gardeners.

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

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Mothers day Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is a great time to show your Mom a little extra love. You may not be able to see Mom in person this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make her day. Whether you’re planning a socially-distanced visit or a Zoom brunch, Mother’s Day can still be special during the pandemic. Even better, send her a little pick-me-up from one of these local businesses. There's never been a better time to support local.

Mothers Day Gift Boxes

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613- 774-0707

503 Main St W, Winchester

Baldwin's Birds

April 28, 2021

35 Main St N, Chesterville

613 448-2188

What's Up, Winchester?

Dear Readers, I hope that you are all fit and well and managing to keep a smile on your face.

Within minutes of posting my email last week, about the birds, these beauties landed, in the trees, near my feeders.

The bright red one is a male House Finch and the other is a Tree Sparrow, which has a two toned beak and a small spot on its chest as distinguishing features. The Song Sparrow was another, and it has a striated chest with a spot and a uniformly colored beak and perky tail. It is probably a little darker too.

These birds were lucky enough to get some sunshine, which also heralded a return to our nesting boxes of a pair of Tree Swallows, for a very brief time. The damp cold weather put them off very quickly and they disappeared once again!

Last week’s snow brought a surprise, in the form of a lone male Evening Grosbeak, along with our Cardinal, a bunch of female and male Redwing Blackbirds, Juncos and a chubby cheeked Chipmunk! We have also been visited by two Red-breasted Nuthatches, who have even been feeding together, on one of our peanut feeders, which isn't, for us, a very common occurrence at all. As well as our "Chippie", we still get the Red, Black and Grey Squirrels to our feeders. The Red one is actually using one of our multi-compartmental nesting boxes, in the back yard, to raise its 4 young ones, as life carries on, regardless.

Stay safe and take care.

Cheers, John Baldwin

Photo: by Sean Ferguson Facebook page reaches over 6,000 members

by Stephanie Seaver During a time when social media has such a profound impact all our lives, the community of Winchester is happy to have the, "What's Up, Winchester?" Facebook page as a go-to for up to date information about the town.

Page administrator, Carrie Paquin, started the page on August 30, 2017. Since then, the page has grown to have over 6,000 followers. Carrie says she started the group with a vision of helping the community. It's clear by the daily posts that this is, in fact, the case.

As we are well aware, there can be challenges to dealing with social media pages. "Trials can arise any time there is a topic that we (the community) feel passionate about," says Carrie.

"Strong feelings and strong opinions can result in strong words. These are the times that require extra mod7

eration." Carrie remains the only administrator, however she has back-up moderators to help out when needed.

The benefits of having a Facebook page for a small town are tenfold. Connections and communication seem to be the top two. If a community member needs something, the Facebook page is a great way to reach out. For many people, it is a quick connection to their friends, neighbours and very valuable local businesses, in a friendly and positive environment. Especially during this time when we are finding each other isolated and alone, social media can be a great way for us to all lean on each other virtually.

The page is the ideal spot for community members to ask questions, post local jobs, ask for recommendations and add some positivity to the group. When the COVID-19 pandemic started last year, group members began sharing their beautiful photography

on the What's Up, Winchester page. Members make daily posts displaying the pictures they have taken around the community.

In light of this, Carrie started a photo contest where members would submit their photos and the winner would be showcased as the group's cover photo. The contest has been running every month and continues to do so, as it has been a great success. "It has been quite popular and I plan to keep it going," says Carrie.

Send in your letters, stories, events to editor@ ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

History Page

The North Dundas Times

Why Dundas? and slavery and the slave trade were not abolished in the Empire until The Slave Trade Act was enacted in 1807. It was another 26 years before ownership of slaves became illegal in most of the British Empire with the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act 1n 1833.

This has led to great controversy over Henry's record on slavery with the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement in recent years, as there is a belief that Dundas delayed abolition and should be treated the same as actual slave owners of his day.

Attempts have been made in Toronto to have Dundas Street and Yonge-Dundas Square renamed, and the same campaign has been launched in Edinburgh to have his statue removed from the top of the monument in St. Andrew Square. A descendant of Henry has asked that a plaque be added to the monument explaining the truth of Henry's attitude towards slavery. Sometimes, it seems, the details and complexities of history are overlooked in pursuit of passionate causes.

Slavery was not the only social cause promoted by Henry Dundas. He worked for Catholic Emancipation in Scotland in 1778. Catholics

Henry Dundas, 1st Viscount Melville, by Sir Thomas Lawrence. National Portrait Gallery, London.

The Melville Monument, St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh.

by Dr. David Shanahan The Township of North Dundas in the County of Dundas. Dundas Street in Toronto, with Yonge-Dundas Square at its heart. Why all this Dundas? They are all named after Henry Dundas, and they're not the only memorials to this very fascinating character. In Edinburgh, his home town in Scotland, there is a 150-foot high monument in St. Andrew Square. There is a Dundas Street in Hong Kong, and a shire in Australia carrying

his name. There are islands named Dundas in Nunavut, British Columbia, and New Zealand. So, who was this man with such a far-reaching legacy?

Henry Dundas was born in 1742 and had a long and very successful career in law and politics in both Scotland and England. His reputation is closely linked with the issue of slavery, both for good and bad. As a lawyer in Scotland in 1776, he represented a man named Joseph Knight, who had been bought as a slave in

Jamaica before being brought to Scotland. He launched a legal appeal to gain his freedom, and Dundas argued before the highest court in the land that: "Human nature, my Lords, spurns at the thought of slavery among any part of our species." He won the case, Knight won his freedom, and slavery became illegal in Scotland ever after.

When William Wilberforce campaigned to end slavery in the British Empire, Dundas supported his cause in Parliament, but differed with the abolitionists by arguing that abolition had to be gradual, or other countries and parties would take over the trade, or drive it underground.

His approach was successful,

Kids Corner

were restricted by several pieces of legislation which required them to take an oath rejecting the political power of the papacy, deny certain Catholic doctrines, if they wished to own property worth above a set amount, or to attend a university, and many other areas of life. Dundas tried to introduce a Bill in Scotland to end this discrimination, but the reaction was violent and sustained, and the Bill had to be withdrawn.

Catholic Emancipation would take many more years to achieve.

Dundas, in spite of this failure, was a very powerful figure in British politics in the last decades of the 18th Century. Indeed, so powerful was he in Scotland, that he was known by such nicknames as "King Harry the Ninth", the "Great Tyrant" and "The Uncrowned King of Scotland".

He served in several posts under Prime Minister William Pitt, including secretary of state for the Home Office (1791-1794), president of the Board of Control for Indian Affairs (1793-1801), secretary at war (1794-1801), and first lord of the admiralty (1804-1805).

In 1802, Dundas became Viscount Melville and Baron Dunira, of Dunira in Perth-

shire. Two years later, when he returned to Cabinet as First Lord of the Admiralty, he was the subject of a Commission of Inquiry looking into financial mismanagement of his Department. Although there had been some unauthorized activities by a subordinate of his, Henry was acquitted of wrongdoing, but the process seems to have soured him on public life and this was the last post he held in government. He died on May 28,1811, in Edinburgh, aged 69.

Henry was a close friend of John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada. When Simcoe reorganized the province in July, 1792, he named one of the new counties after his friend, Henry Dundas. At the time, the county stretched from the St. Lawrence to the Ottawa River. Its boundaries were revised in 1800.

North Dundas, then, carries the name of an influential and powerful figure in the history of the British Empire at the end of the Eighteenth Century, a man who was controversial in his day, and seems to have managed to remain current and controversial down even to our own time.

Word Scramble

The Towns of North Dundas C E R W H I T S N E ______________________________ T L E R I L H S E E C V ____________________________ O O N H I U T T S U N A M _________ _______________ N T I O M U A N. _________________________________ V L H I E L L A L. _________________________________ Y A O H M R N. __________________________________ K N E A N I M R _________________________________ O O W M R D E O _________________________________

Find 5 differences

Outdoor activities hopscotch/ soccer /tag/baseball / running / swimming / biking / football / hiking

Joke of the week

What do you call a bear with no teeth?

A gummy bear!

Hey Kids!

Get your creative juices flowing!

It's contest time!

April 28, 2021

8

The North Dundas Times wants your drawing for our daily weather repost on Facebook!

Email your drawings to: production@ndtimes.ca and we will post them on facebook. Best weather drawing will win a gift from a local business of their choice!

Contest will run until the end of June www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Federal budget supports child care

by Lorraine Rekmans The Federal budget was released this past week against the backdrop of a devastating third wave in this pandemic, and a surge of COVID-19 cases across the country.

As communities struggle to deal with business closures, job losses, transitions from in-school learning to virtual learning, and lockdowns, there have been pleas from various sectors of the country looking for urgent and much needed relief from economic uncertainty.

One federal promise, that this Liberal government has made before, was included in this budget which was more than 700 pages long, and that was a commitment to make childcare more affordable.

In 1970, a national child care system was recommended by the Royal Commission on the Status of Women, while Pierre Trudeau was Prime Minister. After 51 years, there may finally be some action on this file, with the Lib-

Conservatives skeptical about Liberal budget eral government’s proposal billion in new spending over election terms, and a comto invest $30 billion over five three years, and there will mitment of $125.2 million promises years, and $8.3 billion per year after that, to create and sustain a national child care program. The goal is to bring the cost of childcare to $10 a day by 2025-2026.

NDP party leader, Jagmeet Singh, announced that the NDP would support the budget, even though it left out items that the party was hoping to have included, such as a national pharmacare program and a universal basic income. The threemember Green Party Caucus, in a budget submission to the Finance Minister, called for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) to be transformed into a Guaranteed Livable Income, and outlined specific expenditures to address climate change and move to a green economy, including a massive investment in renewable electricity generation from wind, solar, geothermal, and run-of-the river hydro.

There was a big focus on economic transition to a green economy with $101.4

also be interest free loans to homeowners of up to $40,000 to upgrade housing with green retrofits. Pandemic business and income support measures, such as wage and rent subsidies, will also continue into the fall of this year.

One big ticket item in this budget included $236.2 million over five years, and $33.5 million per year afterward, for the departments of National Defence and Veterans Affairs to eliminate sexual misconduct and gender-based violence in the military, and to support survivors. This budget also introduces a new $15 per hour federal minimum wage.

Aside from spending promises, the budget also contained a number of other legislative proposals including one to amend the Judges Act, to freeze a judge's pension entitlements, as of the date the Canadian Judicial Council recommends a judge's removal from office.

There is a measure to address First Nation Band Council

over four years, beginning in 2022-23, to support First Nations communities' reliable access to clean water.

There are proposed measures to crack down on charities the government believes are affiliated with terrorist organizations. Budget 2021 also introduces amendments to the Canada Elections Act to specify, “that making or publishing a false statement in relation to a candidate, prospective candidate, or party leader would be an offence only if the person or entity knows that the statement is false."

The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada could also receive new authority under this budget to use ministerial instructions to help select candidates who align with Canada's labour market needs from among those who wish to become permanent residents through the Express Entry System. The budget has yet to pass through voting in the House of Commons.

We really need a community group hug, right about now!

by Lorraine Rekmans In the fall of 2019, IPSOS conducted a survey revealing that about half of Canadians were living in precarious financial circumstances, and 48% of us were about $200 away from bankruptcy.

Economists at the time said they didn't know what the future would hold, as we all went forward into these dire financial straits.

Little did anyone know at that time, that we would be hit by a pandemic, economic shutdowns, and a crisis of the magnitude that Canadians have never seen before. The government of Canada has reported that the total number of bankruptcies in Canada has increased by 6.4% in February of this year. The fact that the number isn't higher is attributed to the quick reaction of the federal government with income supports directly to Canadians. But these are precarious times, and we can only hang on, if supports continue.

We can measure the economic toll that this crisis has had. We can count the number of cases, and the number of vaccines, and sadly tally the April 28, 2021

total of lost loved ones, but what we cannot measure is the stress that each of us is under in these horrifying times.

It is not enough to call it stressful, trying, or difficult.

These are highly troubling days that we live in. The toll we are all paying now is monumental, if we measure it in stress, loss of sleep, isolation from family, longer working hours, shorter pay, and uncertainty, inability to pay rent or buy food. We are paying this toll by taxing our bodies, our resolve, and our hope. We are paying this toll with our own personal mental health . We cannot be trite and say, "hang in there." There is no platitude that will serve in this situation. We need local action.

There are 1.2 million small businesses in Canada that are hanging on by a thread, some of these are located in our own community. They need your help if they are going to survive. We know that these small local businesses are the engines that drive Canada's economy, and without them, it will be nearly impossible to think of economic recovery postpandemic.

Follow us on Social Media

Do what you can from home to support them. Pick up the phone. Call a local business. Ask them how they are doing. Ask what you can do to help. Send them a virtual hug.

Connect, but stay home.

Member of Parliament, Eric Duncan (Conservative, Stormont Dundas and South Glengarry), recently issued a statement critiquing the federal budget. This was the first budget released by the Liberal government in two years.

I am very concerned about the unsustainable spending levels proposed by the government. We are now over $1 trillion in debt, including adding another $155 billion this year alone. For context, every single woman, man and child in Canada now owes $33,000 in debt- and it is expected to grow even more in the forecasts provided in the budget,” said MP Duncan.

He said, “The budget also re-promises numerous ideas, including a pledge to address child care. This is the 9th time that this pledge has been made by a Liberal government since 1993, and every time they have failed to deliver on their promises.

The Liberals always talk a good game, but can’t actually follow through and deliver on what they say they are going to do.”

Conservative leader Erin O’Toole stated that he was also concerned about the “massive new financial commitments,” that were included in the budget. “The Prime Minister has moved too slow for this virus – it is racing ahead of us now.

Our healthcare workers, our heroes on the frontlines, are breaking their backs because we don’t have adequate vaccine supply,” he said.

“For months, as provinces pleaded for more vaccines, the Liberals have been plotting an election. When Justin Trudeau tables his budget this afternoon, Canadians can expect the Liberal government to incur massive new financial commitments that he expects future generations to pay for."

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

The Voice of Our Community

Grand Opening

Inside Secure monitored building, climate controlled Secured outside storage Please see our wesite at info@ebstorage.com Or phone 613.774-6161 12054 Main Street, Winchester

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CROSSWORD

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Let's try another salad this week. This one is a Crab and Rice Salad great for an evening's light meal, or as an accompaniment to larger fare. It's also great at lunch time, served with some Naan bread, lightly heated in the microwave.

Crab and Rice Salad

Ingredients 12 ounces of frozen cooked Atlantic Crab meat 2/3 cup mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (or to taste) 1 cup of cooked rice, refrigerated 2-4 tablespoons of finely chopped onion ½ cup of diced celery or diced green pepper A 12 ounce package of frozen green peas, cooked and refrigerated Salt, pepper and a bit of sugar to taste Preparation 1. Thaw and drain the crab; remove any bits of cartilage you may find.

2. Toss and mix all the ingredients together and refrigerate.

3. Serve up to 6 servings on full leaves of Romaine or Iceberg lettuce.

4. If desired, pack the mixture into a well-oiled mould and refrigerate that way; then to serve, turn over onto leaves of lettuce as a dinner or lunch feature.

5. Also, if you have a bigger family or bubble, just increase the amounts of the ingredients.

Substitutions include: Canned LeSieur petit pois for the peas; mock crab (well chopped); mixed white and wild rice; and lobster meat if you are so inclined.

Keep your hopes up for good weather so we can all get outside and get some fresh (but safe) air. Best, as always from: pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

ACROSS 1. Takes off 6. Pond gunk 10. Spar 14. Everglades bird 15. French for "Head" 16. Feudal worker 17. Muse of love poetry 18. District 19. Mimics 20. Division 22. Tidy 23. Mommies 24. Smallest finger 25. Existence 29. Seabird having a large bill 31. Something dazzlingly excellent (British) 33. A powerful wooden bow 37. A street of small shops 38. Specify

Writing contest winners to be featured in Perch Magazine A Bunch of People Arts and Events, in conjunction with Perch magazine, would like to announce the winners of the 3rd Annual Writing in 150 writing competition.

In March, 25 writers sat down and within 150 minutes (2 1/2 hrs) wrote their literary or musical entry based on a word prompt. In June 2021, the first, second and third place winners of the 5 categories will be published in a hard copy collection of works published by local publishers Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood Publishing Inc. 'This year, we are really excited to be working with Perch magazine to debut the 1st place winners' work for everyone. These excellent literary and musical pieces will be presented on Perch magazine's website debuting at 10 am Monday, April 19, 2021," Amanda Burger of A Bunch of People stated. "We love working with other organizations toward creating more appreciation of the great talent in Cornwall, Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry (SD&G) and Akwesasne.

The winners are....

Fiction: Theme: CLAIM 1st Place: Participant 8672 Jennifer Pretty 2nd Place: Participant 7142 Carol Goddard 3rd Place: Participant 1119 Carol Johnson Non-Fiction: Theme: LAUGHTER 1st Place: Participant 9989 Jacquelyn Toupin 2nd Place: Participant 8593 Marnie Fossitt 3rd Place: Participant 4447 Shelley Adams Poetry: Theme: REVEAL 1st Place: Participant 2800 Jannah Russell 2nd Place: Participant 2214 Karen Ray-Stewart Short Play: Theme: BENEATH 1st Place: Participant 1046 Patrick Burger 2nd Place: Participant 3628 Sandra McNeil Song: Theme: BREATH 1st Place: Participant 5875 Rick Ventrella 2nd Place: Participant 2258 Tony Glen Amanda added, "Congratulations to everyone who participated, and we would like to thank Rachelle Eves, Suzanne Millaire and Thomas Schoch, the judges, for their volunteer time and energy and support for this event these last 3 years. And we look forward to future events as they grow in popularity and talent."

Perch is an independent magazine that tells the stories of the people who live, work and play in Cornwall, Akwesasne and the SDG Counties-the artists, the designers, the foodies, the performers, the community leaders, and the business owners. Without them, Perch wouldn't exist. Here is the link to the website: https://perchmagazine.com/writing-in-150-winners-revealed/ A Bunch of People Arts and Events gives 100% of their yearly profit to a local charity at the end of each calendar year. https://abunchofpeopleartsandevents.business.site/

39. Staunched 41. Watered down 42. Indigenous 44. Not more 45. Daunts 48. Puke 50. Killed 51. In a non-hurting manner 56. Eastern discipline 57. Away from the wind 58. Relative magnitudes 59. Blacken 60. Gashes 61. Step 62. Fit 63. Lock openers 64. Creepy

DOWN 1. Accomplishment 2. Monster 3. Make secure by lashing 4. Greek cheese 5. Gale 6. Stutter 7. Breakfast food 8. Implement 9. Food from animals 10. Having purpose 11. Type of poplar tree 12. Move stealthily 13. Cantankerous 21. Becoming gradually narrower 24. Discussion group 25. Wanes 26. Thin strip 27. Small, medium or large 28. Graniteware 30. Will supplement 32. Curses 34. Chomp 35. 1 1 1 1 36. Marries 40. Depreciate 41. Faintness 43. Half 45. Mentally prepare 46. Hello or goodbye 47. Lawful 49. Brusque 51. Arrange in a container 52. Satisfy 53. Sun 54. 53 in Roman numerals 55. Bygone era

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

The Art of Giving What is better than having a good time?

Knowing the profits from what you enjoyed are going to help the community!

That is the Art of Giving!

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The Scents of Spring

by Claudia Sutton "There is no glory in star or blossom until looked upon by a loving eye. There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by" (William Cullen Bryant) Can words describe the fragrance of the very breath of Spring?

I ventured out for an early walk today with Ollie the dog, and the air was filled with the scent of pine and spruce and an earthy fragrance that comes after a rain. It was as if all the trees were bursting with green.

Now that it appears that Spring is truly here, we applaud the cheerful bird sounds to greet the day, with more sunshine to warm our winter weary souls. The overnight temperatures are not as daunting to keep the young plants warm, so we have more time to plant and seed, and more time to wander the gardens to see what new growth of perennials there are. We are often surprised to find a perennial that lost its marker and that we had forgotten about. I love these serendipitous surprises in nature.

Each day passes so quickly as compared to the long days of winter.

When it's time to transplant the herbs, a wide smile spreads across my face, as the heavenly scents of basil, oregano, sage, lavender, and many others fill the greenhouse. This is my happy place. We have a small sign

in the greenhouse that says "Please touch the herbs", as we have found this is the way the scent is released.

In the early years of growing herbs, I soon discovered there really was something to the term "aroma-therapy".

After watering a number of scented geraniums, or pruning up to at least 100+ varieties of herbs, I would return back to other chores completely relaxed. I decided to enrol for Certification as an Aromatherapy Health Practitioner to learn more about this ancient therapy, which included healing massage, aromatology, and learning the history of herbs for their culinary, medicinal and healing qualities.

Of late, I have expanded on this and have begun a home Herbalist program. There are numerous books and videos and a whole host of information on these topics; however, I am a staunch enthusiast of just the raw plant material; its texture, and its benefits of taste and scent and medicinal qualities.

I must admit that with all this information, one can find it daunting as to which way to proceed - perhaps a scented medicinal garden or a kitchen culinary garden!? If it is one's first try with herbs, and one wishes to plant a herb garden for healing and fragrance, perhaps the choice of lemon verbena (calming with either hot or iced tea), lemon balm, bergamot, calamint, chamomile, or sage could be considered. For a kitchen or culinary garden, one might

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Brownell (née Kostiuk / Kosciuk), Helen

choose chocolate or banana mint, thyme, parsley, basil or rosemary. Herbs are versatile and useful in such a variety of ways. One could never become bored! Many flowers of herbs are edible as well!

Herb gardens come in all sizes - perhaps one could keep just a few potted plants outside your door, or on your deck or intermix them. Locating herbs along a walkway or by an entry way ensures any passerby will delight in the plant's colours, textures and scents.

If lavender is on your list of herbs to grow, you can find bliss with easy lavender recipes that promote relaxation and stress relief, (something many of us are in need of right now). A lavender bath soak with lavender bath salts are calming and therapeutic and include; 1 cup of Epsom salts, 1 cup of Himalayan salt or sea salt, 20 drops of lavender essential oil, 3 tbsp sweet almond or olive oil, 1/4 cup dried lavender buds. Add salt to a 1 quart bowl and mix, and then add essential oil and the almond or olive oil and mix thoroughly. Stir in lavender buds.

Store in a lightly sealed jar.

Here's hoping your journey into herbs is a pleasant, scent-filled one!

"Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived." (Helen Keller)

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Helen passed away on April 9th, 2021 at the Osgoode Care Centre in Metcalfe, Ontario at the age of 89 years. Dearly beloved wife of the late Harry Walter Brownell to whom she was married for 65 years. Loving mother of Vivian Brownell of Metcalfe, Yvonne Schaefer (husband Chris) of Thunder Bay and Catherine Hay (husband Daryl) of Perth. Cherished grandmother of Cory and Pauline Catling, Brian and Brandon Schaefer, Ryan Hay (wife Kaylee) and Kaitlyn Thurler (husband Michel). Greatgrandmother of William, Raelynn and Jack Thurler and Brinley Hay. Predeceased by mother Anna Kliszcz, father Prokop / Peter Kosciuk, brother Marvin and half-sister Anna Kosciuk. Helen was totally devoted to her family and will be forever in our hearts. A Private Funeral Service will be held at the Winchester Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 472 Main Street, Winchester on Friday May 7th, 2021 at 1 pm. Interment to follow immediately at Maple Ridge Cemetery. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Service for Helen will be restricted to immediate family members only. A Live Streaming of Helen’s Service will be available as a link on the bottom of Helen Brownell’s obituary page at www. hpmcgarry.ca. Donations to the Alzheimer Society would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-774-1117

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Gender Makes a Difference in Heart Disease

While the current pandemic holds a firm grip on everyone's attention, another killer may be getting a stronger foothold on us - and chances are, women will continue to pay a higher price. Coronary heart disease is already a leading disease for women and men. Common sense suggests the situ-

ation is getting worse. The sedentary lifestyle imposed by lockdowns, accompanied by weight gain and higher alcohol use, is not the way to lower incidence of heart disease. But how does it affect women differently?

A report in the journal, Circulation, notes that heart disease kills ten times as

many women as breast cancer. It takes the life of one in every three women, more than all cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and accidents combined.

A report from the American Heart Association confirms stunning improvements in death rates of both sexes from coronary heart disease since 1980. But women have not shared the benefits equally.

One reason is that most people still tend to think of heart attack as a male disease.

That's largely because men suffer heart attack on average, earlier in life, driving more attention to the issue. But in women, after menopause, the gender gap disappears.

What are the signs of trou-

ble? Chest pain is the most common symptom in both sexes. But at least one-third of women do not show this classic symptom during coronary attack. Rather, they complain of shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, palpitations, dizziness, intense anxiety or pain in the jaw, neck, upper back, or arm. These problems may be mistaken for a panic attack with fatal delay in diagnosis.

But suppose, careful attentiveness lead to a rapid call to emergency? Even so, for women, studies show that an immediate electrocardiogram or stress test is less likely to show the typical finding of heart attack.

If a woman has an early diagnosis of coronary attack and survives it, a bypass operation may be required.

Here, too, however, women still have twice the risk of dying during the surgery or shortly thereafter. Tirone David, an internationally renowned heart surgeon in Toronto, explains one reason

why the mortality rate is higher. The coronary arteries are smaller in females. This makes surgery technically more challenging when vessels the size of spaghetti are joined together.

What should women do to decrease the risk of heart disease? First, any woman still smoking should see a psychiatrist, as the risk of heart attack is seven times greater than non-smokers.

Knowing your family history is also key. If your father or brother had a heart attack before age 55, or your mother or sister before age 65, this substantially increases risk. It's a red flag that urges, "double down on preventive measures".

If there is a history of cardiovascular disease, a daily 81 milligram Aspirin may be helpful. But since Aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, always discuss this medication with your doctor.

Remember that obesity leads to Type 2 diabetes,

which in turn increases the risk of heart attack. Women who have trouble losing weight should try and try again. Have your blood pressure checked. It has been estimated that one-third of heart attacks in women could be prevented by controlling blood pressure. If blood cholesterol is elevated, cardiologists and most other doctors will recommend cholesterollowering drugs. Discuss this with your physician. But know there are alternatives, including high doses of vitamin C and lysine, a combination that has helped keep one of us alive for more than 20 years after severe heart attack.

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Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario Board Meeting Highlights Social-Emotional Learning in Mathematics The implementation of a new strand in mathematics known as social emotional learning is helping CDSBEO students develop a positive relationship with mathematics. Social-emotional learning skills help students develop confidence, cope with challenges, and think critically.

This learning reflects current research and the government’s commitment to student wellbeing and skill-building.

Principal of Curriculum, Nancy McIntyre, and Curriculum Numeracy Consultant, Crystal Lake, provided an overview of how socialemotional learning is helping students to become more confident learners and thinkers.

With the release of the 2020 new Mathematics Curriculum (grades 1 to 8), the Ministry of Education has embedded “Social Emotional Learning” as a new mathematics strand.

“In 2019, the Ministry released the new Health and Physical Education curriculum which included the strand of social-emotional learning.

Then in the fall of 2020, it appeared in the new mathematics curriculum,” began Principal McIntyre.

“It is clear that social emotional learning skills are necessary for student success.”

Students develop socialemotional learning skills and April 28, 2021

use math processes (for example, problem solving and communicating) across the math curriculum. Through these skills students will learn to make connections between math and everyday life. The strand helps students to recognize and discuss mistakes and learn from them, as well as use strategies to be resourceful in working through challenging problems.

The importance of developing self-awareness and a sense of identity are also a focus of social-emotional learning. Students are invited to reflect on texts, specifically the book “I Am Enough” by Grace Byers, which provide constructive affirmations for those who lack self-esteem and self-acceptance. The lesson provides opportunities for students to reflect on themselves in a positive light and build their self-confidence.

Care for Our Common Home The CDSBEO has recently responded to a call for best practices that went out to all schools across the province from OCSTA Director of Catholic Education, Anne O’Brien. The request asked school boards to share the ways we communicate, collaborate, and celebrate eco initiatives in schools.

The responses provided are to be featured in a collective OCSTA document called Together in Faith: Care for Our

Common Home.

Principal of Religious and Family Life Education, Paul Mantha and Curriculum Consultant Meghan Wood submitted a response that was so outstanding, the Board received a letter from OCSTA President Patrick Daly thanking our Board for our contributions to OCSTA’S collection of promising practices that will be presented at the upcoming OCSTA Annual General Meeting.

“The CDSBEO Department of Religious and Family Life Education is excited to highlight the diverse means by which schools collaborate, communicate, and celebrate environmental initiatives as we work together to demonstrate our resounding response to the call of our Holy Father to care for our common home,” began Mantha in his presentation to the Board of Trustees.

“OCSTA intends to publish this compendium of effective practices on May 24, 2021, as a means of commemorating the anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si, published on the same day five years ago, May 24, 2015.

On May 24, 2015, Pope Francis signed the encyclical Laudato Si’, which called upon not only Catholics all over the world, but the entire global community to recognize how every person

is profoundly connected and dependent on one another, as well as on the natural world in which we all live. He stated that a great cultural, spiritual, and educational challenge stands before humanity, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal.

Pope Francis urges that we “regain the conviction that we need one another, and that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world.”

“With respect to Laudato Si, the OCSTA asked for boards to share the way their schools build environmental awareness, strategies, projects, campaigns, and activities through three areas including collaboration and connection, communication and engagement, and celebration and proclamation,” explained Mantha.

While there are many ways in which CDSBEO schools demonstrates these three important characteristics of effective stewardship, the EcoSchools program has provided an avenue to allow school communities to showcase their commitment to the environment.

Many additional examples were provided of ways that students engage in learning and leadership opportunities through various environmental projects and initiatives including the planting of butterfly and pollinator gardens, community garbage 12

pick-up and greening projects, supporting local food banks with food grown in school gardens, regular waste audits and waste free lunch initiatives, composting, tree planting, and environmental awards for students.

“In closing, the teachings of Pope Francis encourage all people to be stewards of the Earth while caring for those who are most effected by climate change.

Our CDSBEO community, students, staff, schools, and board demonstrate ongoing collaboration and commitment to environmentally sustainable actions and practices, not only through our EcoSchools initiatives, but also out of love and faith in solidarity for our common home. We enjoy communicating our passion for environmental initiatives and deeply engaging all school communities in practices that help to ensure sustainable practices.”

“I am so extremely proud of our Board and the success that has been attained in

environmental initiatives. We are extraordinary leaders in the province, and it is amazing to be recognized through OCSTA for all of our accomplishments. Congratulations to our schools, and thank you Mr. Mantha, for sharing our success this evening,” concluded Chair Lalonde.

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