ND Times Issue 21 2021 June 16

Reaching by direct mail to over 5,500 homes and businesses in Winchester and area

The Voice of North Dundas

Vol 2, No 21

June 16, 2021

Dundas Federation of Agriculture donates to Food Share

Industry Leader in Diesel Performance Truck and Tractor Maintenance & Repair

Locally owned and serving our customers with pride since 1999!

County Road 38, Winchester, ON

613.774.2044

Toyo Tires Open Country AT 3, R/T & C/T

Available Here!

•Standard Oil Change •Battery test •Inspect wiper blades •Check all belts and hoses

Service • Repair • Tires 567 St. Lawrence St, Winchester

613-774-2520

It’s an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the abundance of fresh, healthy, affordable local food that we are privileged to have access to across the province.

The Dundas Federation of Agriculture (DFA), along with the Dundas Dairy Producers Committee (DDPC), and the Dundas Soil and Crop

Improvement Association (DSCIA), recognize that many within our community need support and even more as the COVID-19 Pandemic continues.

The DFA, DDPC and DSCIA are helping to increase access to local food by giving back to our community. Donations are of $500 from each of the local agriculture groups to Com-

munity Food Share. This $1500 donation is helping our community increase their access to local food while improving local food literacy.

Our agricultural community encourages all to support local producers and encourages an increased use of local food by private and public sector organizations when

possible.

Community Food Share would like to also remind our local producers that they accept fresh produce and will work with our farmers for any donations of beef.

YOUR LOCAL AGGREGATE SUPPLIER - SERVING DUNDAS & GRENVILLE COUNTIES

"Proudly serving our Community" Dan Pettigrew Owner & friendly neighbour T: 613.774.1958 Dan.Pettigrew@sobeys.com foodland.ca 12015 Main Street Winchester, ON

P: 613-258-0223 admin@wkcltd.ca

DELIVERY AVAILABLE » TOPSOIL » SAND » GRAVEL

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

BUY 4 OIL CHANGES & GET THE 5TH ONE FREE!

L-R: Jane Schoones (Team Leader, Community Food Share), Brian Vandenberg (DSCIA President – Dundas Soil and Crop Improvement Association), Ian Porteous (DDPC President – Dundas Dairy Producer Committee), Ryan Devries (DFA President – Dundas Federation of Agriculture), Nick Thurler (DFO Board Member District 2 – Dairy Farmers of Ontario).

Photo courtesy of Ruth Vogel (OFA Member Service Representative)

WWW.WKCLTD.CA

The North Dundas Times

Local artist John Allaire releases 15th album

Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter John Allaire is releasing his 15th career album, Paint it All in Blue. The full-length album will be available on vinyl, CD and digital download.

Paint it All in Blue was recorded in Ottawa at Scout Co. Productions in 2019-20 and was completed remotely during the first COVID-19 lockdown. It is a 10-song album featuring eight John Allaire originals, an instrumental

penned by Scott Clarke, and a cover of a song by Pittsburgh singer-songwriter Tom Breiding, with whom John has toured the US on several occasions. It is a fully acoustic album of rural-inspired folk-rock tunes, co-produced

by Allaire and Ottawa's Steve Tevlin.

The decision to release the album at this point has less to do with any strategic rationale and more to do with uncertainty surrounding

Local memorials to commemorate children's deaths

the live music industry. "We were sitting on the recording, which has pretty much been ready to go since early summer 2020, trying to figure out when the best time to release would be. Like everyone else during Covid, we were waiting for a return to live performances, but it just wasn't happening," John said from his rural home just north of Winchester, Ontario.

"We decided that the best thing would be to just get the music out there and let the live shows catch up to the physical product when things open up and it is safe out there."

The 55-year-old has won major awards across North America (including the 2009 Americana Music Award in Nashville for Lyricist of the Year) in a career that began in 1984 and has seen him tour the world numerous times as

both a solo artist and a member of the seminal pre-grunge band The Town Cryers.

Known as one of Canada's hardest working touring acts, John averaged 160 shows per year around the world.

He has shared the stage with hundreds of popular acts, including The Black Crowes, Snoop Dogg, Steve Earle, Wilco, Three Days Grace, City and Colour, Blue Rodeo, Alejandro Escovedo, David Lindley, Donovan, HooDoo Gurus, BoDeans, Alanis Morrisette, Drive-By Truckers and many more.

The Fi-Delities are: John Allaire - vocals, guitar, organ, harmonica, jaw harp, percussion; Scott Clarke - banjo; Tim Healy - upright bass, harmonica, backing vocals; Breeze Smith - percussion, and Tessa Bangs - fiddle

June is National Indigenous History Month

Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs, released the following statement in recognition of National Indigenous History Month: “Today marks the start of National Indigenous History Month, a time to honour and celebrate the traditions, heritage, and culture of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Ontario and Canada.

This year’s festivities follow the tragic discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children on the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential school in British Columbia. As we reflect on the strength and resiliency of the Indigenous peoples of Canada, let us honour these children and their families by deepening our collective understanding of the inter-generational trauma inflicted by residential schools, and the impacts of inequality and systemic racism on Indigenous peoples.

During National Indigenous History Month, I invite all Ontarians to take this important opportunity and learn more about the rich diversity of Indigenous peoples and how their contributions and achievements have shaped our province and country for the better. While commemorative events will be virtual this year, there are many online resources available to help every Ontarian mark this important month in a meaningful way.”

Card of Thanks

In recognition of the 215 children's bodies that were uncovered at the Indian Residential School in Kamloops earlier this month, local residents established small memorials to commemorate the children's deaths. This memorial was set up at St. Daniels Church in South Mountain. The Township office at North Dundas lowered the flags to half mast, and residents set up a small memorial at the United Church in Winchester.

Photo by Joselyn Morley June 16, 2021

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone for your cards & messages of sympathy, food, flowers, phone calls, donations and sharing of memories following the sudden loss of Lyall Levere. We appreciated the professional care provided by the first responders and special thanks to Vicky Byers of Byers Funeral Home. Due to restrictions, a private family service will be held at Maple Ridge Cementry on June 30, 2021. Lyall will be greatly missed by all.

Jane, Christine, Andy, Jay, Connie and Patty

Now Open

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

• • •

Vehicle repairs Class “A” Mechanic Sale of Quality Pre-Owned Ve-

hicles Flat Bed Tow Truck Brakes Suspension Tire Sales

• • • •

613-989-3839

1748 County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario

MAY 31 AUTOMOTIVE

MAY 31 JUNE 7 - JULY 30 CONSTRUCTION COOKING & CATERING

FREE TRAINING & JOBS 613.932.0210 EASTERN ONTARIO TRAINING BOARD

JUNE 28 - JULY 30 MANUFACTURING

JULY 5 DZ TRAINING

AUGUST 9 - 20 RETAIL

Karberry Farm Shetland Wool & More

Your local fine wool purveyor Online, Porch side pick up or by Appointment.

613.265.7553

www.karberryfarm.ca

contact@karberryfarm.ca

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

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

The Voice of Our Community

2

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

North Dundas “AODA friendly” swings definitely not accessible

by Joselyn Morley The township of North Dundas is installing what have been labelled as, “AODA friendly” swings in municipal parks in Winchester, Chesterville, Mountain, Harmony, and South Mountain. An “AODA friendly” swing was previously installed in the Morewood Community Park.

AODA stands for Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Ac, initially passed in 2001. It is law that organizations must follow standards to become more accessible to people with disabilities. The goal is that Ontario be fully accessible by 2025. All levels of government, private sector, and non-profits must comply.

The trouble is, these socalled “AODA friendly” swings are most certainly not accessible to many people with physical disabilities.

Mobility aids cannot roll through sand. The ground under the swings must allow for

safe access, and safe transfer.

These do not. The township states that the swings are suitable for children from 18 months to 12 years. Accessible swings are not intended for a specific age group, but rather rated for weight.

The swing cannot accommodate people who are neurotypical or neuro-diverse, and people of all mental and physical (dis)abilities. Laurie Rae, a Morewood mother with two adult daughters with disabilities, has been advocating for accessibility in North Dundas for 30 years. She is stunned by the lack of foresight on this and other issues surrounding accessibility in the township.

She has called for consultation and accountability on issues to address the needs of people with disabilities.

Accessibility Canada, in its 67-page guide to accessible recreation entitled “Pathways to Recreation”, stresses that, “surfacing is one of the most significant consid-

erations, given its importance to facilitating easy access to play equipment and experiences.” In short, if a disabled person cannot safely get to the equipment, it is useless.

The publication stresses that “organizations must make sure that outdoor play spaces have ground surfaces that are firm and stable…to allow wheelchairs to roll easily.”

Other future AODA improvements highlighted by the township include picnic tables intended to be stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Many of these tables are made of black metal, placed in full-sun locations. The risk of burns is high, especially by someone with physical or mental disabilities, often dependent on assistance to access the table. Consultation with the disabled community and advocates would outline issues such at this, and many more. There are many resources available for communities seeking to improve

accessibility for residents, including a variety of publications, numerous agencies intended to ensure access for all Ontarians, and an array of consultation services to help organisations get it right.

The township states that it, “strives to provide recreational and social opportunities for all of our residents and guests to enjoy.” They claim that “many AODA compliant improvements are made to our numerous existing parks and facilities each year, and AODA updates are always considered when developing or renovating our public spaces.” These latest installments do no reflect the recommendations made by Accessibility Canada.

You can find the publication Pathways to Recreation: Learning about Ontario’s Design of Public Spaces Standard at accessibilitycanada. ca.

June 16, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine, with over 10 million doses now having been administered.

Before entering Step One, the province also needed to see continued improvement in key public health and health system indicators. During the period of May 25 to 31, 2021, the provincial case rate decreased by 35.1 per cent.

As of June 6, the number of patients with COVID-19 in ICUs is 497, including 31 patients from Manitoba, as compared to 687 two weeks ago. The province's situation is currently exceeding the best-case scenario presented in recent modeling, which indicated the province would reach below 1,000 new daily infections by June 30, 2021.

The province expects these trends to continue over the coming days before entering Step One. Step One of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities with smaller crowds where risk of transmission is lower. It

• • •

3D Design Interlock Natural Stone

613-316-7710

• • •

Lighting Planting Water Features

www.ardron.ca

United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry plan to discuss filling Warden position Frank Prevost, the Mayor of the Township of South Glengarry, and Warden for the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry, has been granted an unpaid 6-month leave of absence from the Township of South Glengarry and as a result he is no longer be eligible to fulfill the requirements as a sitting member of County Council for the duration of the leave. He will no longer meet the criteria required to serve as Warden of the Council of the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry. At a future meeting, Council will determine how to best fill the role of Warden for the balance of 2021.

North Dundas Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Johndin Farms Inc.

Ontario moves to Step One of re-opening Based on the provincewide vaccination rate and continuing improvements in keypublic health and health system indicators, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, moved the province into Step One of its Roadmap to reopen on June 11, 2021.

"Thanks to the ongoing success of Team Ontario's vaccine rollout and the ongoing improvements in public health trends, we are able to enter step one of the Roadmap and begin to safely and cautiously lift restrictions," said Premier Doug Ford. "The only reason we're able to do so is because of the enormous sacrifices made by individuals, families and communities across Ontario. As we begin to enjoy the benefits of the first step in our roadmap like meeting friends on a patio or visiting your favourite local store, please do so safely by continuing to follow all public health guidelines."

In order to safely enter Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen, Ontario needed to have vaccinated 60 per cent of adults with at least one dose for two weeks or longer, ensuring the first dose offers a strong level of protection against COVID-19. As of June, 6,72 per cent of the 18+ population in Ontario had received at least one dose of a

Services

will also permit more limited indoor settings to be open, all with restrictions in place.

Indoor religious services, rites and ceremonies, including wedding and funeral services limited to 15 per cent capacity, will also be permitted.

Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen includes but is not limited to: -Outdoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 10 people; -Indoor religious services, rites, or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services permitted at up to 15 per cent capacity of the particular room; -Non-essential retail permitted at 15 per cent capacity, with no restrictions on the goods that can be sold; -Essential and other select retail permitted at 25 per cent capacity, with no restrictions on the goods that can be sold; -Outdoor dining with up to four people per table, with exceptions for larger household.

by Joselyn Morley There was a public meeting held on June 9 to discuss a Zoning Bylaw Amendment to allow for an agricultural machinery repair shop and welding facility at Johndin Farms, located at 13640 County Road 43. Notice announcing the public meeting to consider this zoning bylaw amendment was sent to property owners within 120 meters on May 18.

A sign was affixed at the property under consideration on the same date in accordance with the Planning Act. Currently, the property is used for both residential and agriculture (cash cropping), and is zoned Agricultural.

The proposed amendment would see the addition of an agricultural machine repair shop and welding facility.

The Official plan considers these Agricultural Resource Lands, and the surrounding land is used for agriculture and residential. The entire property is 363.44 acres, and the part of land that the zoning amendment will deal with is approximately half an acre.

The proposed agricultural machine repair and welding shop will be approximately 300 meters from the road, and 290 meters from the nearest neighbour.

The rezoning will see the property changed from Agricultural to Agricultural

Special Exemption 41 (AG41). This designation allows for businesses that support the area’s agricultural operations to operate in specifically agricultural areas. The province stipulates, that prime agricultural areas are only to be used for agriculture and related activities, and on-farm diversified uses. The business has been operating for a while as a home-based business, and seeks to expand, hence the application for a zoning bylaw amendment.

There were no comments submitted from the public prior to the meeting, and none during the meeting, allowing the zoning bylaw amendment to be accepted.

SDG waives fees associated with street-side patio construction The Stormont Dundas Glengarry Counties Council officially approved the waiving of application fees for 2021 street-side patio construction in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.

While the $130 fee represents a small part of the total expenditure a business is likely to invest in a street-side patio, councillors agreed that making the approval process as streamlined as possible in the time of COVID-19 is important.

“With the pandemic continuing to have a terrible impact on the local restaurant industry, we’re hoping that small gestures such as the waiving of application fees will help to spur a recovery for these all-important small businesses,” said SDG Warden Frank Prevost.

The application fee for street-side patios is based on cost-recovery, and encompasses the expenses associated with reviewing plans, site inspections and time connected with reviewing and approving the application.

The Counties’ street-side patio allowances are governed by Bylaw 5152. Business owners wishing to create a street-side patio must complete a pre-consultation with both the local municipality where the business is located, as well as the United Counties. An acceptable sketch of the street-side patio must be submitted as well.

For more information on street-side patios in SDG, and to download an application, visit sdgcounties.ca/ economic-development/street-side-patios.

Annual General Meeting Via ZOOM Tuesday, June 29, 2021 at 7:30 PM If interested, please e-mail the office for an invitation:

info@dundascountyhospice.ca

3

www.ndtimes.ca

Guest Editorial

The North Dundas Times

It’s all too much

by David Shanahan News of the vicious murder of the family in this province has hit the headlines all over the world. From the BBC in Britain to Al Jazeera and Reuters, the story of a hate crime taking place in sedate London, Ontario, has cast a deep pall over Canada’s reputation as an open and inclusive society. The victims were Salman Afzal, 46; his wife Madiha, 44; their daughter Yumna, 15; and a 74-year-old grandmother whose name was withheld.

A nine-year-old boy, Fayez, was seriously injured and is recovering in hospital. The Mayor of London described it as an act of “unspeakable hatred.”

A police officer in London stated quite clearly that “[T] here is evidence that this was a planned, premeditated act, motivated by hate. We believe the victims were targeted because of their Islamic faith.”

It was not the first such hate crime, and, sadly, won’t be the last. And it came in a week when Canadians were still reacting to the events at the old Kamloops Residential School in B.C. It is hard to take. There is an idea that people are “basically good”, whatever that means, but the regular news of acts of hatred

against “others” makes me wonder.

Then the report arrived that a local woman had tried to deface the rainbow road crossing at the corner of Prescott and Reuben by trying to cover it with tire marks.

This may, or may not prove to be the case, but nevertheless the idea of such a thing upset me, and I thought: why?

It’s the question that always comes to me when I hear of these acts of violence and hate. There is a poem by Liverpool poet Roger McGough in which he says: The difference between people who love and people who hate, is that people who hate have to explain what they mean”.

What is the explanation for this kind of hate crime? What is it that makes people hate others who believe differently, have different coloured skin, speak a different language, or any other element that differentiates them from the hater?

You may disagree with someone else’s political beliefs. You may not approve of someone’s lifestyle. You can even have genuinely felt moral arguments against someone’s position on anything. But does that mean it’s all right to hate them, to act against them in an outburst of violence? What makes it ac-

life”. Really? So vandals, arsonists and murderers more accurately reflect “our way of life”? Those who try to, literally or figuratively, to wipe out those of whom they disapprove are more in line with Canadian values?

Irish politician, John Philpot Curran, said “The condition upon which God hath given liberty to man is eternal vigilance; which condition if he break, servitude is at once the consequence of his crime and the punishment of his guilt”, although the quote

ceptable to hate, just because you don’t agree, or even like?

Whatever it is, it goes deep into the hearts and minds of people, people who you would never expect it from.

And it seems to come out when the circumstances allow it to be expressed. The social climate, something in the air, seems to spark unacceptable ideas and actions.

And, no matter what we may think of this country, we know only too well the horrific history we have in this area.

Indigenous people, Japanese and Chinese immigrants and citizens, Jews and Moslems, are a few of the groups that have inspired hateful acts in Canada. Some of them even mandated by government decrees and legislation.

There seems to be no end to the imagination some people show in coming up with finding someone to hate.

“They don’t belong here”, is a phrase they like. It leads to people being told to “go back where you came from”, even when they came from here. Toleration means you accept other points of view, or another person’s values and principles, without having to agree with them. Some believe that “others”, whether ethnic, religious, or genderbased in identity, are somehow a threat to “our way of

is often falsely attributed to Thomas Jefferson. No matter who said it, the truth remains: we need to be vigilant and not allow hatred to pass unrebuked.

Whether it’s a comment you hear from a friend or in a coffee shop, whether it seems reasonable or dogmatic, we have to stand up and protest against racism, or any other form of discrimination. And those who perpetrate violent acts, physically or symbolically, against those “others” need to be told in no uncertain

fashion that they do not speak for us, do not reflect the values of our society. Unless, of course, the sad fact is that they do? Silence means consent.

It doesn’t really matter what you think of someone, they deserve respect as a fellow human being. Just because you don’t know them, the fact remains that we all have our story, one that needs acceptance, respect, toleration, and empathy. On the face of it, it doesn’t seem too much to ask, does it?

Letter to the Editor Dear Mayor and Council, Thanks to Joselyn Morley and the North Dundas Times newspaper (edition May 19, 2021), your public has been made aware of the appalling choice you have made with regard to the article "Spraying Clearview Herbicide & Gateway Adjuvant" in our Township.

I cannot fathom how something as toxic as this killing every sort of flora and fauna except grass - seemed like a good idea. It not only kills plants that pollinators rely upon, it kills the pollinators themselves. It poisons water sources. It pretty much kills everything!

Last time you sprayed, I

found 12 dead bumble bees on my deck. Of course, all connection was denied but the fact is that this recent newspaper article has shown clearly that your current choice is an environmental nightmare.

A quick Google search on Aminopyralid, the active ingredient, lists a horror show of poisoned livestock, crops, soil, and home veg gardens. It has been banned in 20 States.

An article in the previous edition of the North Dundas Times had the Mayor lauding the efforts of the Butterflyways and the need to "look after our trees". The hypocrisy of this, in light of the long list of death rained down by the Township's chosen herbicide,

is beyond comment.

I would ask that all spraying be ceased immediately and a more environmentally sound choice be made. Too bad you cannot undo the damage already done, as the article states, these toxins persist in compost and soil for 60 months.

I am baffled how this was ever put into use.

I call on all residents to contact the Mayor and the Councillors to stop needlessly poisoning our environment!

Janice Atkey Videto Winchester

$1475 to assist with the cost of new signage. The CIP exists to allow for improvement to a business. Unfortunately, the Morewood Lucky Mart, which includes the post office outlet, is not accessible to people with physical disabilities. The CIP can help offset the cost of making a business accessible, in addition to many other improvements.

Other The cistern pump at the Morewood Fire Hall, which is used to fill the pumper truck and flood the rink, needs to be replaced.

A lot in Silver Creek Estate in Hallville, previously reserved as an open space, and “passive park” was donated to South Nation Conservation (SNC). Trees were planted previously, and the SNC can help better preserve

Wylie Creek.

A lot on St John’s Street in Hallville, declared to be surplus to the needs of the municipality, will be sold in accordance with the Sale and Disposition of Lands Policy, and the proceeds will go towards the township’s portion of the future Hallville Community Park.

A new commercial development is going in between the Tim Hortons and the Foodland in Winchester.

Council discussed other items at the meeting, including the renewal of a 2-year lease for The Old Town Hall by the Dundas County Players. There is a new Patrol Supervisor and Drainage Superintendent. A new 2021 truck was purchased from

North Dundas Council regular meeting

by Joselyn Morley The regular meeting of North Dundas Council was held on June 9 following the Public Zoning Bylaw Amendment meeting.

A brand-new business promotional project has been launched as of June 9. The Economic Development Department has created signs for businesses that announce that, “Yes, We’re Open for Curbside Pickup” and, “Also Open for In-Store Shopping.”

The Economic Development Officer, Stephen Mann, will take pictures of the businesses with the signs. The photos will then be posted on the township’s Facebook page.

A new “Community Strong – Shop North Dundas” logo was developed, and is featured on the signs, and will be available in decal form for businesses to post in their storefronts. The logo will also be included as an email footer for staff and Council.

The Virtual Business Expo is featuring videos showcasing local businesses, which will be posted on the June 16, 2021

township’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. The Expo Planning Committee had hoped to have these videos professionally produced, but a grant application to facilitate this was denied. The videos will therefore be selfproduced by the business, or produced by Stephen Mann.

Instructions and guidance will be provided to those who wish to produce their own videos. The community is encouraged to share these videos on social media. The township will hold random draws for prizes for those who like, share, or comment on the videos on social media. All businesses in North Dundas are eligible to participate in this project, including home-based and direct-sales businesses.

Waste Management The Waste Management Department reported that its three Leaf and Yardwaste Pickup events on May 3, 10 and 17 in Winchester, Chesterville and other villages were well supported. Each pickup took two employees and four hours of work. One pickup yielded 3.6 metric tonnes of leaf and yard waste, and another 2.6 metric tonnes.

Recycle Coach was helpful to let residents know exactly where and when their pickup would be.

Pools The pools in Chesterville and Winchester will open on June 19. Opening times will be posted on the township’s website and Facebook page.

There are seven lifeguards and pool staff this season, rather than the usual thirteen.

Because of the uncertainty on the status of recreation programs, staff found employment elsewhere when they could. Re-certification for all lifesaving and first aid courses has been difficult to impossible for the last fifteen months in all areas due to closures, and it is usually the responsibility of the staff as a condition of hire. This year, the township has facilitated re-certification through Cornwall. Due to staffing limitations, the Winchester pool will most likely be open four days a week, and the Chesterville pool for three.

Currently the plan is to have free public swims.

Lucky Mart receives grant The Morewood Lucky Mart on Main Street received a Community Improvement Program (CIP) grant for

The North Dundas Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc.

Production

Email: production@ndtimes.ca 613 215 0735

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

Staff Reporter joselyn@ndtimes.ca

OFFICE 613-215-0735 Marketing/Sales

Editor editor@ndtimes.ca 613-215-0735

Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca 343 777 2702

4

continued on next page

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Business re-opening in North Dundas

the pandemic this far have capacity is definitely better pivoted and made changes than nothing. Our customers to our retail establishments prefer in-store shopping, so Ontario is beginning the so happy to welcome to •maintain sales and create •we are process of re-opening on Brakes Vehicle repairs them back.” new sales.”

Kelly says that June 11, three days ahead • Class “A” Mechanic • Suspension says “if the doors “inviting public Preback • Kelly of schedule. The province Tire Sales • Salethe of Quality will help with Vehicles impulse buys •are able to remain open, and says that increased vaccinaAir Conditioning Owned and grow friendships again.” the number of people intion rates, and “continuing • Flat Bed Tow Truck • Alignments crease, then yes, businesses Businesses miss their clients! improvements in key public 613-989-3839 It could cost a business will bounce back, slowly health indicators” allows for “all more to open a cautious approach to openC o u nfor t y 15% R d 1ca, M obut u nsurely.” t a i n O Lisa n t a rthinks io businesses are very excited to pacity than it would to stay ing. Premier Ford credits the closed. Kelly notes that “the see customers coming back. ongoing vaccination program, wedding industry has been We’re very fortunate to live in and the “extreme sacrifices” rocked through the pandem- such a supportive community, of Ontarians for the current ic.” Smaller ceremonies mean many people have been trying optimism, even though the less profit, but often takes the their best to make online orDelta Strain of Covid-19, same number of staff to do the ders and curbside purchases.” previously referred to as the It has been a very long job. This is the situation for Indian Variant, is instilled in 15 months of pandemic promany small businesses. “pretty much every health Lisa Williams, owner of tocols, closures, rules, and unit.”

Main Street Clothing said: losses. Everyone in the comNon-essential businesses “My business has been closed munity has a role to play to will be allowed to welcome for in-store shopping for keep our local businesses customers at a 15% capacity months. There are days I going. Kelly says “the townrate. If the business can hawished I could have just one ship staff, MPs, and MPPs, as bitually accommodate twenty person in at a time, so 15% well as other public figures in people, they will now be able the neighbourhood of small businesses, need to continue to talk about these businesses, sharing their social media, shopping at the locations, and keeping pressure on the government not to shut us The United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry is making it easier for tourism down again.” There has been operators to draw visitors to their destination. a great deal of frustration by SDG Tourism is launching the intake for Tourism Information Signs (TIS), which are local municipal and county installed on County roads, directing traffic to local tourist amenities. level government about the The program aims to place signs on SDG County roads for motorists to find tourist attractions, operations and services. This increases awareness of SDG tourism attractions, operations and services in the region and enhances traffic control through ‘advanced warning of turns’ signs.

SDG staff supervise the registration, delivery and maintenance of TIS signs.

The cost of TIS signs includes manufacturing, installation, maintenance and administrative costs. Costs are the sole responsibility of the owner and must be paid in full upon the signing of the agreement. Each agreement is valid for a period of four years.

2020 SIGNAGE PROGRAM PRICING: • Large Regional Sign (8’x2 ) – $450/4-year term • mall Regional Sign (3’x2 ) – $350/4-year term For more information on applying to the TIS Sign program, please visit: whereontariobegan.ca/tourism-info-signs/

by Joselyn Morley

to welcome three. Restaurants can host groups of four on outdoor patios, and up to ten people can now gather outside. Group exercise is now allowed.

I asked a few local businesses about their plans for opening, their thoughts about how the closures have been handled, and what is ahead. A cap at 15% capacity for nonessential businesses is very small. This might have helped a small business throughout the closures. A shop owner could have allowed one or two people in at a time. By now many of the businesses that are opening for 15% capacity have already changed their business model drastically. Kelly Windle, owner of the Planted Arrow Flowers & Gifts, explains that, by this stage in the pandemic, “most of us that have survived

SDG opens intake for Tourism Information Signs

Freshly baked goods

Homemade frozen meals Pizza & subs LCBO/Beer Store convenience outlet

613-989-1323

Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-7pm Sat&Sun 7am-7pm 1738 County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario fact that our rural area has been under the same rules as big cities and hotspots. There was no data to show that small local rural businesses were hotspots. Kelly says “It is very important for us to stay in the public’s eye for years to come after this so that people know we’re still here and support local. Small businesses care about their community and the people who support them!”

In North Dundas, businesses will be opening. Business owners take chances every day just by owning a business. In Winchester, Kelly says there is a very strong network of businesses ready to work together to bring events and ideas to life. The Planted Arrow is hosting a monthly Garden Party Market. The next one is

Saturday June 19, 10 am to 3 pm. Come and find multiple local artisans gathered at both the Planted Arrow, and at St Paul’s Church.

Nanda Wubs, president of the North Dundas Chamber of Commerce, notes that, even though non-essential businesses can only have a few people inside at once, the customers finally have access to the products in person. She believes that there should have been more flexibility in the closure rules for lowincome families and for rural areas. Furthermore, what may be considered essential for one person is not necessarily for another. The website MyShopLocal.ca is the only advertising some local businesses have.

National Workforce Council Meeting Strategy for Agriculture, continued Myers GMC in Kemptville Food and Beverage for $45K. Dundas Power Limited Manufacturing will be replacing the lights at the Chesterville Ball Diamond for $23K. The lights at the South Mountain tennis courts are being replaced by Devries Electric for $13K, and the masonry at the Morewood Fire Hall will be repaired by Dejong Masonry for $16K. The next Council Meeting will be Tuesday, June 22 at 7 pm. The public is always welcome. Meeting package and agendas are always available in a timely fashion prior to the meeting on the township’s website. Check the website to see if the meeting is online or in person! There will be a public meeting at 6:30 prior to the regular meeting.

June 16, 2021

The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) and the Future Skills Centre (FSC) are partnering with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and Food and Beverage Canada in developing a National Workforce Strategy for the Agriculture and Food and Beverage Manufacturing sectors. The project will address the persistent and growing labour and skills shortages affecting Canada's agriculture and food processing industries.

Cyr Couturier, CAHRC Chair, Newfoundland and Labrador said, “This is an important and timely opportunity to map out the future of the agriculture and agri-food workforce in Canada. The agriculture and food processing sectors could help the Canadian economy emerge from Covid-19 if labour and skills shortages can be addressed. Unfortunately, the pandemic has revealed that persistent workforce challenges affect the competitiveness and sustainability of these sectors. By working together, stakeholders across the value chain can develop practical business solutions, then implement programs and services targeted at attracting and engaging more workers into the sector."

5

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

New Act to protect victims from human trafficking Joan MacIntosh July 12, 1936 - Jun 23, 2020

Day by day our thoughts do wander To a grave not far away, Where they laid my dear wife, sister, and aunt Just one year ago today.

Love Don, Faye, and Scott

The Ontario government passed new legislation, and amendments to existing legislation, to build upon the province's $307-million Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy. The Combating Human Trafficking Act, 2021 reinforces Ontario's commitment to fight human trafficking and demonstrates continued leadership in responding to this pervasive crime.

"Our government is taking further action to fight the deplorable crime of human trafficking," said Premier Doug Ford.

The new legislation includes two new acts - the Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy Act, 2021 and the Accommodation Sector Registration of Guests Act, 2021 - as well as amendments to the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 and the Prevention of and Remedies

Clarifying how and when police services can access information from hotel guest registers to help deter trafficking and identify and locate victims, while establishing the power to include other types of accommodation providers, such as short-term rental companies.

The Combating Human Trafficking Act also requires companies that advertise sexual services to have a dedicated contact to support investigations into suspected human trafficking.

Solicitor General Sylvia Jones said about the changes, "It gives law enforcement the additional tools needed to help prevent and deter human trafficking and builds on the cross-government approach to supporting survivors, protecting victims, raising awareness among parents and community partners, and dis-

for Human Trafficking Act, 2017. Together, the acts build on the government's response to combat human trafficking by: Increasing awareness of the issue, supporting a longterm provincial response and emphasizing that all Ontarians have a role to play in combatting human trafficking; Supporting more survivors and the people who support them in obtaining restraining orders against traffickers, with specific consideration for Indigenous survivors; Strengthening the ability of children's aid societies and law enforcement to protect exploited children; Increasing penalties for persons, including traffickers, who interfere with a child in the care of a children's aid society; and,

mantling criminal networks."

"The Combating Human Trafficking Act adds strong new dimensions to our government's actions to support and protect survivors of this heinous crime," said Attorney General Doug Downey.

"In addition to providing new discretion to judges to lengthen restraining orders beyond the current limit of three years, the legislation extends protection to frontline

workers and survivors' family members and recognizes customary care arrangements."

Ontario is a hub for human trafficking. It is the province with the most police-reported incidents of human trafficking in the country. The average age of recruitment into sex trafficking is approximately 13 years old. Almost 65 per cent of human trafficking victims identified by police are under the age of 25.

HELP WANTED - 4 days a week

Berube Poultry Berube Poultry in Mountain is seeking labourers beginning in May. No experience necessary. Will train.

Serious inquiries only please @

613-989-2020

Sustainability – Gypsy Moth invasion exacerbated by climate change

by Joselyn Morley Anyone who pays any attention to trees at all has noticed the destruction caused by the gypsy moth. This is year three of a particularly bad invasion. It is the larvae stage that does the damage.

The Caterpillars. They prefer oak, and other hardwood, but when they’re hungry they will eat anything. Entire stands of old oak have been entirely defoliated, but they’re currently munching their way through deciduous and conifers throughout eastern Ontario. Accidentally introduced in the 1860s, there have been periodic outbreaks since, often in 7 to 10 year cycles, usually ending with an overabundance and a population collapse. That hasn’t happened yet, and this outbreak shows no signs of abating.

The caterpillar is 5 to 60 mm long and covered in hairs, which can cause skin irritation in some people. The hairs also make many birds wary of snacking on them.

June 16, 2021

Blue Jays, orioles, chickadees, and black and yellow billed cuckoos are five birds found in Ontario that do eat them. Another reason to encourage birds to your yard!

One female lays one egg sac in a mass on a tree trunk in late July and August. Sacks contain 100 to 1000 eggs, are 4 cm long and tan in colour.

They hatch in early May and start climbing trees to munch on the canopy. In the 40 days they spend growing, munching, and moulting, one caterpillar can eat a square meter of canopy. The caterpillars climb up and down the tree, and travel via threads carried on the wind. From mid July, at 6 to 7 cm they cocoon for 2 weeks, hatch in late July or August, live for 10 days, lay more egg sacks for next year, and die. The female moth is larger, white, and flightless.

The male smaller and it flies.

They don’t eat anything as moths. The egg sacks overwinter, and the cycle begins again the following spring.

Climate change has con-

tributed significantly to their survival. A virus (Nuclear Polyhydrosis Virus – NVP) infects caterpillars, turns their insides into millions of virus particles thus helping to propagate the virus and significantly reducing gypsy moth populations. Unfortunately, drought kills the virus. The last couple of summers have seen drought conditions in eastern Ontario. The fungus Entomophaga Maimaiga exists as resting spores on tree bark throughout the winter, germinating into sticky spores in the spring, where it digests its way into the caterpillars on contact. It kills the caterpillar, turning the decomposing carcass into microscopic spores that spread. Unfortunately, this fungus relies on specific moisture levels and temperatures in order to germinate. In short, the conditions required to affect a collapse of the gypsy moth population are not occurring. The MNRF monitors gypsy moth. The forecast for this year and next is frightening. Ontario has not introduced any predators.

What can you do aside from helping to mitigate the causes and effects of climate change? Removing egg sacks from trees will reduce the population a bit. Drop them on the ground where they’re eaten by small mammals or put them in a bucket of soapy water. Wrap burlap around the trunk of trees. The caterpillars hide under the burlap during their travels up and down the tree, where you can remove them. Strong trees can withstand an assault a bit better, so water and feed trees, and

don’t stress their roots with digging or crowding.

Trouble is, a tree can only withstand so much. A healthy oak will not succumb to one year of infestation if it has a stress-free year following. A deciduous tree can often refoliate a bit in later summer to keep it going through the winter. A coniferous tree cannot.

Some people spray Bacillus Thuringiensis – Kurstaki (Btk). It’s a natural soil-borne bacteria. It is toxic to the larvae stage of some insects.

Butterflies such as monarchs that hatch later in the year are generally safe from it, but many of the less gorgeous, but equally important moths and butterflies aren’t. Bt-K is what some landowners spray aerially.

You can maintain a garden that supports birds and beneficial insects. Check out BirdGardens.ca for suggestions.

Parasitoids refer to some species of wasps and flies that lay their eggs in the body of a host, such as a gypsy moth

caterpillar. The larvae stage of these parasitoids kill the host. Please do not kill insects indiscriminately in your gardens, as many of them help control infestations of other insects, and are harmless to us. A few of these wasps and flies have been introduced into the north-eastern US to help control gypsy moths.

Other insects prey on gypsy moths, including predatory stinkbugs, ants, and spiders.

Tid Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW Time is of the essence. Although 100% of us know we will die, only 23% have a will.

When wills are not made, the government really gets the bigger portion, plus no-one receives what you would have liked seen treasured by a love one. Lack of a will can leave a spouse destitute. There is no guarantee everything goes to your spouse, and the fight to get things makes for very lean times, even homelessness. Wills reduce family contention and bad feelings for others. Until the rapture, no one gets out of life alive, so why the hesitancy? Death is not to be feared but to be acknowledged as the final step of living. Summer always makes me think of the increase of probability due to water sports, campfires, travelling, but anytime is a possibility of an earthly exit.

Your health is fragile. People 6

die at all ages.

True enough, lawyers can be expensive. You can write up in your own handwriting by pen your wishes and then have two individuals witness your signature to make it legal. You can always change your will as you age.

As they say, nothing is written in stone. Sometimes we believe we own nothing, but look around at your treasures - photos, books, collections, jewelry, etc. There can be conditional clauses saying an item goes to so and so, but if they don't want it then on to the other person. It helps to attach pictures of a particular jewelry item or ornament for clarification. I have a granddaughter anxious since age 4 to have a particular ring I wear. I said when I die she can have it, then found myself watching my back around stairs!! We compromised on when she is 16 and no substance use to protect its value,

then I will pass it on!

Working as an addiction counsellor, I had youth compose their wills to ease the burden on their parents. If you choose to put these substances in your body, you have the responsibility to prepare for death. For many it was the sobering effect needed to turn the corner. I had a situation of a youth suicide where the estranged parents could not even decide whether boxers or briefs were to go on the body. My recommendation was to put both on! There remains the crucial decision of burial or cremation.

What is your excuse as to why you have not fulfilled your obligation to loved ones in this matter? You have the responsibility to take ownership of this step. You never know when your time expires, so do the right thing! Many are counting on you!

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Treaty Facts

by David Shanahan Did you know that when the Royal Proclamation was passed in 1763, almost all of present-day Ontario was recognized as “Indian Territory”, and Europeans were forbidden to trespass and settle there? The Territory included all the land west and south of the Ottawa River, with the exception of a small strip giving the Crown possession of land on both sides of the Ottawa River. All of North Grenville and North Dundas was included in the “Indian Territory”.

In just 120 years after the Royal Proclamation, the only “Indian Territory” left were the various Reserves of today. In a series of “treaties”, many of which remain undocumented, the way was cleared for European settlement across Ontario. The terms of these treaties may seem a little strange in retrospect.

A treaty made in 1783 described the land taken as stretching back from the Bay of Quinte “as far as a man can travel in day”. How far is that? On May 9, 1791, the Mississauga surrendered all the Canadian side of the Niagara River, including the Falls, to a depth of four miles from the river. In return, they got 300 suits of clothing.

In another treaty from the 1780's, the place where the land surrendered was to be described was left blank.

Apparently, they were going to fill in the blanks later. They forgot. It was not until 1923 that another treaty was made to sort out the confusion.

A treaty was made in 1796 with the Chippewas of the Thames for a parcel of land twelve square miles in size, in order to build a capital city of Upper Canada. The Chippewas received £12,000 in goods in return for the land. The town never became

the capital, but it is today the City of London.

Many of the treaties signed before 1800 were never actually written down.

There is no treaty document, no official record of what was agreed to, or what was taken by the Crown. Most of the land taken under treaty in southern and western Ontario was to make room for European families and discharged soldiers that had fought in the American War of Independence or the War of 1812.

In 1836, Governor Francis Bond Head travelled to Manitoulin Island for the annual distribution of presents.

On the way, he decided that the island would be a perfect place for all the Indians in Upper Canada to live. He believed that the indigenous population was doomed to extinction when faced with the encroaching tides of European settlers. Better, he thought, to allow them to die out in peace on an island that would allow them to follow traditional ways of life. So he agreed to give up Crown rights to the Island, giving it to the Indians forever, in order to open it to all who wished to resettle there. Twentysix years later, in 1862, the Crown forced through a second treaty to reverse Bond Head’s agreement, and the Island was opened to settlers while the indigenous people were confined to Reserves.

After getting the first treaty on Manitoulin in 1836, Bond Head had the Saugeen peoples agree to surrender one and a half million acres of their land - and paid them nothing in return.

The two Robinson Treaties of September 1850 were originally supposed to get control by the Crown of a strip of land along the shores of Lakes Huron and Superior.

Instead, more than 52,000 square miles of Indian Territory were included in the two

documents. One of the major indigenous leaders at the time, Shingwakonse, believed the treaties were a prelude to a joint venture by Crown and Nations to develop resource industries in the north of the Great Lakes. Instead, once the treaties were signed, the Nations were informed that they were now under British law and were excluded from any commercial operations in the region. They could only fish for their own domestic use.

Considering the wealth extracted from the lands under the Robinson Treaties, which stretched from North Bay to past Thunder Bay, and north almost to Hudson’s Bay, in the form of timber, fish, copper, gold, uranium, and other resources, it is incredible to think that, in return for ceding this vast treasure house, each individual indigenous person living under those treaties is paid, to this day, the princely sum of $4 per year. And this was an increase in the annuity paid until 1874, which was $1 per year each.

The treaties are legal documents, but the Crown, whether Canada or Ontario, has consistently failed to meet their obligations set out in those documents. And so it continues in our own time.

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

Loralee Carruthers

Do you know what is expected of you when buying or selling?

Showing your home?

The offer process?

Closing cost?.....

I can help you make the buying/selling process easier.

Off. 613.918.0321

C. 613.407.8869

loralee.carruthers@century21.ca

Quality Used Car Center 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE

Services: Tires/Brakes/Exhaust/General Auto Maintenance All Terrain, 108,600 km.Price $36,900.

Hst & license fee extra. Stock #699

Call us or view our vehicles online at

www.rtauto.ca

12034 Cty Rd 3 (Main St.), Winchester

613.774.2000

http://myshoplocal.ca/ proud to partner with your local Pharmachoice

Taylor’d Safety Services Inc. Safety services tailored to your business needs James Taylor, General Manager

613•797•3032

james.taylordsafety@gmail.com www.taylordsafety.ca June 16, 2021

47 Christie Lane Winchester

7

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Pandemic impacts on the House of Lazarus

Parties call on ly, the food bank and Opera- them. That means that 75% of donated by BMR Winchester, Liberals to take action

by Joselyn Morley tion Backpack, the schools' the people who need nutrition Forget-Me-Not Herbs & The House of Lazarus nutrition program, are still support from a foodbank do Flowers in Oxford Mills, on residential school file

(HOL) in Mountain is a community outreach mission providing food, clothing, household goods, and a wide variety of community programs to people in both North Grenville and North Dundas.

The ongoing pandemic has made operations challenging on many levels.

The HOL operates a thrift store in Mountain with clothes and household goods, and a clothing store in Ingleside.

Donated items are sold to raise funds to support their numerous community programs. Currently, they are back to accepting donations of clothing and household items at the drop off area in Mountain, but this is dependent on weather and space. Check their Facebook page for the most up to date information about donations.

HOL initially had to lay staff off as their stores closed.

Many of the community outreach programs cannot run because of Covid-19 pandemic protocols. This is leaving many people without services that they rely on, such as nutritious food through programs such as Dinner on the House, or Lunch and Learn, but it also leaves them without valuable contact and support. Current-

running. Operation Backpack provides snacks, lunches, and suppers to school-aged children, with funding assured until the end of August.

HOL encourages anyone with school-aged children to reach out for assistance through this nutrition program.

Although HOL has lost revenue from their thrift stores being closed, there has been a great deal of financial support from various levels of government, grants, and the community. The community has been incredible in supporting HOL foodbank throughout the pandemic.

Service clubs and individuals have donated, people have purchased bags of food through Foodland, and HOL benefited from funds raised through Giving Tuesday.

HOL accessed grants and funding opportunities through Foodbanks Canada, and Feed Ontario, as well as from all levels of government. There was more financial support for foodbanks than ever before. This support has meant that the foodbanks can continue, but it doesn't make up for the loss of community outreach programs.

Only 25% of people who need foodbanks actually use

not reach out for assistance.

There is a deep desire to leave assistance to "those who really need it," leaving many people hungry and suffering food insecurity needlessly.

Cathy Ashby, Executive Director of HOL, admits "it's hard to answer the phones some days, to hear the need."

But she encourages anyone to please reach out and call.

From the fall-out of the 2008 recession, we know that foodbank use will peak two years after a crisis. That means that people are hanging on for long after the initial crisis, hoping that things will get better. Cathy says," don't wait." Call when you need food. HOL has food for you.

You don't need to choose between food and rent.

At the end of June, HOL hopes to be able to provide a take-out supper on Wednesday evenings, similar to the Dinner on the House, except it will be take-out. The kitchen in the foodbank in South Mountain, formerly the Scotiabank, has been inspected and certified as a community kitchen, allowing meals to be prepared there.

Currently the HOL Community Garden is mostly planted. Seedlings have been

Scottish Heritage Day proclaimed

by David Shanahan The Ontario Legislature has passed the Scottish Heritage Day Act, proclaiming November 30 as Scottish Heritage Day in Ontario. The date is significant, as it is St. Andrew’s Day, Scotland’s National Holiday. The Act was introduced in the Legislature

by Jim McDonell, the MPP for Stormont - Dundas - South June 16, 2021

Glengarry last September, and passed through without opposition. It became law on June 3.

It was particularly appropriate that the local MPP promoted the new Act, as his riding remains identified with Scottish Highland immigration, both after the American Revolution, and following the Highland Clearances, when a

great number of people were evicted from their homes and lands after 1760, with a large influx to Glengarry County in 1786. The lands in the Scottish Highlands were “cleared” of tenant farmers to make room for sheep farming.

There were later additions to the Scottish population when discharged soldiers and immigrants from Scotland formed part of a governmentfunded scheme of settlement after the War of 1812, leading to the establishment of the Town of Perth, which became a military supply depot for the Rideau Canal region.

The experience of the Scottish Loyalists forced to flee after the American War, and the same sense of exile experienced by those who came after the Clearances, gave the population of the region a strong sense of Scottish identity that has been maintained to the present day.

Scots Gaelic is still a living language in the area, though fast disappearing. But other elements of Scottish culture remain vibrant and popular. The Glengarry Highland 8

Manotick Garden Supply, and the Dundas 4H Club. If anyone is growing an extra row in their own gardens, HOL will gratefully accept donations for the foodbank. They work closely with Community Food Share that serves North and South Dundas, and North and South Stormont. They also form part of the North Dundas Housing Initiative.

Over the last 15 months, as the store has opened, then closed in response to government closure orders, HOL has done some renovations in an attempt to make the store space more "Covid-friendly."

Looking forward, hoping that they can open up by mid June, the store will be allowed 15% capacity, which even in the renovated space will let only a couple of people in the store at once. They are planning on having as much merchandise outside as possible.

Currently HOL is providing help filing tax returns to those in need through their CRA Volunteer Income Tax Program. Call 613 989 3830 or 613 612 3830 to make an appointment for assistance with tax returns, or to visit the foodbank.

by Lorraine Rekmans In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) concluded the work of investigating the experiences of the survivors of Canada's residential school system.

The TRC issued a number of reports and 94 recommendations for action to resolve issues identified. In addition, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation was established at the University of Manitoba.

The TRC recommendations included a call on the federal government to work with the churches and Aboriginal community leaders to inform the families of children who died at residential schools of the child's burial location, and to respond to families' wishes for appropriate commemoration ceremonies and markers, and reburial in home communities where requested.

In addition, the calls to action included a call for the federal government to assist with the ongoing identification, documentation, maintenance, commemoration, and protection of residential school cemeteries or other sites at which residential school children were buried. There was also a recommendation for documenting all relevant information and ensuring all work was done in a respectful manner in collaboration with affected communities.

The TRC has identified the names of, or information about, more than 4,100 children who died while attending a residential school. This information will be compiled into a national register that will hold all of the information known about these children.

This week in the House of Commons, the NDP introduced a motion to call on the federal government to drop its legal battles against First Nations children and comply with the Human Rights Tribunal order to fully fund First Nation children in care. The motion also calls on the government to implement the TRC's recommendations, provide trauma resources to survivors, and provide a progress report on its activities.

The motion was supported by all parties and it passed 2710, with Liberal cabinet members abstaining from the vote. The motion is not legally binding.

Games provide a venue where many Scottish competitions are held to celebrate Scottish Culture.

Scotland has provided a large number of individuals who have made an enormous contribution to Ontario and Canada. After the departure of the French Regime in 1763, leaders of the new British administration, like General James Murray, smoothed the way for the more positive relations which developed between the old French settlers and the new rulers. Murray was born Ballencrieff, East Lothian. Scots made up a high percentage of the Fathers of Confederation, including George Brown, publisher of the Toronto Globe newspaper, first leader of the Liberal Party, and an essential participant in the making of Canada in 1867. He was born in Alloa, Clackmannanshire, Scotland. The first two Prime Ministers of Canada were born in Scotland. John Alexander Macdonald was born in Glasgow, and Alexander Mackenzie was born in Logierait, Perthshire.

Not all Scots were as positive in their contribution to the political life of their new country. William Lyon Mackenzie was born on March 12, 1795, in Dundee, and became an important newspaper publisher in Upper Canada in the 1830's.

His “firebrand” personality led to him leading a rebellion against British rule in 1837. However, after spending some years in exile in the United States, he returned to Canada and even took his seat in the Legislature during the last years of his life.

Scotland gave Canada many entrepreneurs and scientists over the generations, both Scottish-born, like John Redpath, who was born at Earlston, Berwickshire, and the descendants of Scottish immigrants. Redpath built the Lachine Canal, opening the Saint Lawrence to larger shipping potential, as well as building some of the locks on the Rideau Canal, founded the Redpath Sugar Company, and many other commercial operations.

Even the health system

enjoyed by Canadians today is the result of the work of another, later, Scottish immigrant. Tommy Douglas was born in Falkirk, Scotland, in 1904. His introduction of Medicare in Saskatchewan led in turn to systems like OHIP in Ontario. He later served as the first leader of the federal New Democratic Party.

There’s a long list of contributions made to this country by Scots, proud of their ancestry and of their country.

And there is a lot to celebrate on November 30 with the first Scottish Heritage Day in Ontario.

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

The North Dundas Times

Queen's Park Update

Drought conditions currently in Reopening Ontario Act to De- Please visit www.ontario.ca/

by MPP Jim McDonell, MPP for Stormont-Dundas- cember 1, 2021. The motion bookvaccine or by calling South Nation, Eastern Ontario, allows the minister to modify 1-888-999-6488 if you have South Glengarry Ontario has experienced and relax public health mea- a red and white OHIP card, and beyond sures safely and orderly as the a 600 percent increase in the more contagious Delta variant of COVID-19, initially discovered in India. Recent data reveals that it is significantly more resistant to a single dose of vaccine and has more severe health impacts. Government made the difficult decision to continue with remote learning for all elementary and secondary students across the province for the remainder of this school year. We have come too far to jeopardize our return to a more normal summer where our parks and recreation programs open for our youth, and our businesses can reopen for the public to enjoy.

The more contagious variants are a wildcard, and we have seen other countries forced to return to a lockdown because of their resistance to a single vaccine dose. Our plan allows the province to continue its focus on accelerating COVID-19 vaccinations to support a safer summer and return to in-person learning in September. Please visit https://www. ontario.ca/reopening-ontario for complete details.

Our Government passed Motion 111 to extend the legislative authority under the

situation improves. Of note, the Stay-At-Home order requiring Ontarians to remain at home except for the purposes set out in the order, such as exercise, going to the grocery store or pharmacy, or accessing health care services, is no longer in effect.

Meanwhile, our local case numbers continue to drop, with the seven-day rolling average below 20 for the first time in months. Vaccination efforts continue to expand and hit new milestones, exceeding 70 percent of all adults in Ontario. The strong efforts of the EOHU vaccination team and steady vaccine supply have allowed them to book 18,000 appointments between June 1 and June 12. On Monday, May 31, residents 80 and over started to re-book appointments to move up their second dose if they wish, weeks ahead of the original forecast.

As of 8 a.m., Monday, June 7, individuals turning ages 70 and over this year, as well as individuals who received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine on or before April 18, 2021, are also eligible to receive their second dose.

Baldwin's Birds

need assistance, or wish to book multiple appointments.

I was proud to have my private member's Bill 208, An Act to Proclaim St. Andrew's Day as Scottish Heritage Day in Ontario, receive Royal Assent. When we look at the contributions of Canadians, it is particularly striking to see the contributions from Scottish residents in our section of Eastern Ontario. Accomplishments include John Bethune's establishment of the first Presbyterian Churches in Montreal and numerous locations in Eastern Ontario, and Bishop Alexander MacDonell's establishment of many Catholic Churches across Ontario, the Glengarry Fencibles, a precursor to the SD&G Highlanders, and his role as a catalyst for the immigration of tens of thousands of Scottish settlers in Ontario.

He, along with Rev. Bethune, played significant roles in the War of 1812. Other notable achievements include David Thomson mapping much of Western Canada; John McDonell became the first Speaker of the first Legislature of Upper Canada; John MacDonell led the Canadian

It is mid June, and the South Nation Watershed is already experiencing drought conditions. South Nation Conservation Authority issued a Level I Low Water Condition. Precipitation over the last three months has been well below normal. North Dundas is under a burn ban.

Ontario Low Water Response Program is a program that allows the monitoring of water resources by those who use it on the ground, and those interested in the status of water in their communities.

Areas of the province that are experiencing low water conditions have set up Waforces at the Battle of Queenston Heights. Also, John Sandfield MacDonald was the first Premier of Ontario, and John McIntosh discovered the McIntosh apple, just to name a few. The diverse makeup of Canada has been our strength and has fostered significant international contributions.

Remember to maintain personal spacing, wear a mask, and stay home, except to pick up essential items.

ter Response Teams. Water Response Teams are administered by local conservation authorities. Historically, drought or low-water conditions was uncommon, occurring on average every 10 to 15 years. Climate change and changing weather patterns are making low-water levels, and drought, more common.

Extreme weather events stemming from climate change contribute to and exacerbate drought conditions and low water events. In recent years, southwestern and eastern Ontario have both experienced extended periods of low rainfall, combined with higher-than-usual temperatures. This has led to some of the lowest water levels in many years, and subsequently drier soils. At the same time, we have seen record breaking floods. Extreme rain that causes flooding does not lead to less drought, as the water runs off and is not usable.

The Canadian Drought Monitor (CDM) is the federal program of monitoring and reporting drought and low water levels. A map of current Canadian drought and

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, LOCALLY EMPLOYED FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM

Q&A with Cyndy & Sarah -

Estate Planning The Logistics

North Dundas’ Financial Services Professionals

by Sarah Chisholm Financial Advisor, O'Farrell Financial Services

Good day readers, Whilst cleaning out the leaves from our waterfall, I was serenaded by a very persistent songster, which, as far as I know, I haven't seen in the garden before, a Warbling Vireo.

It was eating, I hope, the caterpillar type beasts that were busy eating the leaves of our Japanese Willow tree. He was a busy little fellow too, always on the move, but still singing. It was very difficult to get a good view of him long enough to get a picture. Being a "flycatcher", he probably wasn't eating any of the crawling beasts. But a Downy Woodpecker was, much to my delight!

My last observations of our House Wrens were delightful, as they have now taken over the use of one of my high nesting boxes, despite the Bluebird that sometimes uses it as a perch!

Live and let live! Stay healthy and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin June 16, 2021

low-water conditions can be found online at Agriculture Canada at agr.gc.ca. Currently much of south and eastern Ontario is experiencing moderate drought or abnormally dry conditions.

The furthest reaches of southwestern Ontario are already experiencing severe drought.

Places in Manitoba and Saskatchewan are currently in extreme drought conditions.

In northern Ontario, there have been 320 forest fires so far this year. By this date last year in 2020, there had only been 127 forest fires. The tenyear average for number of forest fires by this date is 202.

Businesses and residents in the entire watershed are asked to reduce their water consumption by 10%. In addition to avoiding unnecessary use of water while in any drought conditions, there are a few things you can do to help save water.

Water gardens early morning or late evening to reduce the amount of water that evaporates. This is better for plants as well. Wash your car with a bucket. Save rainwater in a rain barrel.

free during your lifetime and rolls tax-free to your spouse or named beneficiaries upon your passing.

Non-Registered Accounts are taxed on an ongoing basis as interest income, dividends and realized taxable capital gains. On the date of your passing, there is a deemed disposition of the investment at fair market value.

This triggers the remaining capital gains in the account which will be included on your final tax return. The account will also be subject to probate - unless it is held as a segregated fund with named beneficiaries.

What about my cottage or rental property?

Cottages and rental properties may trigger capital gains at your passing. The assets, if owned personally, will run through probate. Is your goal to keep the cottage in the family? Consider using

Estate planning can be a beautiful thing. It can create a legacy through gifting to loved ones or charity. Behind your estate goals, there are certain logistics to consider.

Here are some common questions: What happens to my investments when I die?

Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) or Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) are investment accounts that grow on a tax deferred basis.

When you pass away, the remaining balance in your RRSPs and RRIFs are added to your final tax return and are fully taxable. If you have a spouse - your assets can roll tax deferred to your spouse, but the remaining balances will become taxable upon their passing.

A Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is an investment vehicle that grows tax9

Cynthia Batchelor Financial Advisor

Sarah Chisholm Financial Advisor

877.989.1997 | OFSI.CA | FUTURE@OFSI.CA BROCKVILLE CORNWALL KEMPTVILLE RENFREW WINCHESTER

investments or an insurance policy to cover any future tax liabilities.

What will probate cost?

In 2021, assets that go through probate in Ontario are subject to probate fees of 0% on the first $50,000 of assets and 1.5% on any additional assets. If you have business assets, you should consider setting up a second will to protect your non-probate assets.

When is it time to get a will?

As soon as you start accumulating assets, it is important to have a will and a power of attorney. A will should be updated when there are major life changes or as your assets change.

Who should I choose as my executor?

A trusted lawyer can walk you through the responsibilities of an executor. Will your executor have the maturity and time to fulfill their responsibilities? Are they willing to take on the role?

Here is a quick check list to help you plan your estate: 1. Update your will(s).

2. Update beneficiaries on your investments and life insurance policies.

3. Create a detailed Net Worth summary and file it near your will. This summary will act as a road map for your executor.

We welcome questions so please reach out! See our ad in this week's North Dundas Times and follow us on Facebook @OFarrellFinancialServicesInc. www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Anticipating Peak Population

by Ralph Martin In 1804, when Napoleon started to dust up Europe, the world population first stretched to 1 billion people.

After that, it took a mere 123 years before global population doubled to 2 billion in 1927, just two years before the stock market crash and the Great Depression. The next doubling of the global population was compressed to 47 years. In 1974, we tipped over 4 billion people, when Richard Nixon resigned as US President and the OPEC oil embargo ended.

If the rate of exponential growth had continued, the world would have been saddled with 8 billion people, 23.5 years later, by 1998.

However, the actual population touched 6 billion in 1999, as my forbearing students were repeatedly informed.

The next doubling to 8 billion people is now expected to occur in 2023.

The annual increase of our human population peaked at 2.09% in 1968 when the global population was 3.5 billion and I was still a 4-H kid learning about the prerogative

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classified@ ndtimes.ca

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY

for farmers to grow enough food to feed the world. Today our human population is 7.8 billion, but its annual increase is 1.05% and falling.

While the UN had originally warned about a global population of 12 billion, by 2100, their revision is that "the global population could grow to around 8.5 billion in 2030, 9.7 billion in 2050, and 10.9 billion in 2100."

Alternatively, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, as early as 2014, predicted that global population would increase to 9.2 billion by 2050, peak at 9.4 billion in 2070, and then ease down to nine billion by 2100. In 2020, in The Lancet, Vollset, colleagues developed a reference scenario for global population to peak in 2064 at 9.7 billion people and decline to 8.8 billion by 2100, with an alternative scenario of declining to 6.9 billion by 2100, a decrease of 1 billion from today. This is a new story and different than the ever-increasing-population story told at every agricultural meeting I have attended, since my 4-H days.

John Ibbitson and Darrell Bricker, in their book Empty Planet, discuss the implications of a declining global population, including too many pensioners to be supported by too few workers.

In a recent update, they note that in China the fertility rate has plummeted to 1.3 births per woman, well below the replacement rate of 2.1. During the pandemic, fertility rates have declined in other countries, including to 1.5 in Canada. "One in six Canadian couples who are trying to have a child experience infertility, double the rate in the 1980s."

Shanna Swan, the author of the book, Countdown, pointed recently to the risk of rapidly declining global fertility and cautions that if present trends continue (so far the trends have not tapered off), then by 2045, median human sperm count could be zero.

CROSSWORD

As a young faculty member at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, I was very concerned about rapidly rising population and whether or not agriculture could keep up, with sustainable practices.

My colleague, Gary Atlin, listened patiently to my prognostications one day as we assessed field plots. "Well yes, Ralph, we would have to worry about increasing population if everyone was as big as you, so from now on all future people should be small guys like me." We both smiled at his nudge for me to stop talking and get back to work. Nevertheless, the takehome lesson stuck; it is not just about how many people there are but also about how much each person consumes.

To date, Canada has avoided population decline through immigration and offering refuge to those afflicted by climatic disruptions and war. Nevertheless, our predisposition is to open the door wider and faster to those who have the skills we need, such as nurses. The risk is that Canada will exacerbate a planetary 'brain drain' if we preferentially repopulate with the best and brightest from the Global South.

The premise of my book Food Security: From Excess to Enough, is that increasing population, especially following famines of WWII, has driven Western agriculture to produce so much food that we displace ecosystem services and enable excess consumption and waste. It's time for those of us in agriculture to say "Enough, already." As the rate of population increase slows, and as peak population comes into view, we have an intensifying impetus to develop a new story and new economic models to balance adequate production with appropriate consumption.

Ralph Martin, Ph.D., Professor (retired), University of Guelph. Information on book, Food Security: From Excess to Enough at www. ralphmartin.ca

SERVICES email classifieds@ndtimes.ca

39. Phonograph record ACROSS 41. Meal provider 1. Clean between teeth 42. Made less in size 6. Relating to aircraft 44. Stars 10. Frosts 14. A green fabric mixture 45. Affirm 48. Anagram of "Basal" 15. Skidded 50. After-bath powder 16. Snack 51. A formal event 17. Maxim 18. Found on most beaches 56. Modify 19. Kid 57. Beers 58. Fine thread 20. Possessions 22. Type of sword 59. Cocoyam 60. Decay from overripen23. European blackbird 24. Take forcibly ing 25. Nonclerical 61. Panache 62. One who colors cloth 29. Try 63. Rational 31. Not outdoors 64. Clairvoyants 33. Tall Indian palm 37. An unnaturally frenzied DOWN 1. Flaccid body fat woman 38. Movie house Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

HANDYMAN RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, SERVICES bathrooms, additions, Painting, Demolition, decks, home repair.

Drywall, Call George at Carpentry, etc 613 462 7637 Bill at 613-774-2922 June 16, 2021

2. Prospector's find 3. Egg-shaped 4. Palm starch 5. Shorthand 6. Helps 7. Bird of prey also called a kite 8. Curl 9. Probabilities 10. Bowels 11. Aquatic South American rodent 12. Glacial ridge 13. They make wool 21. Protected 24. Lit to a higher degree 25. Not stiff 26. Rectal 27. Bright thought 28. Constructor 30. Paving material 32. Cowboy movie 34. South American country 35. Portent 36. Sailors 40. German measles 41. A type of keyboard instrument 43. Lurch 45. Horse 46. A walking stick (Australian) 47. Leave out 49. Bottoms of shoes 51. Taxis 52. Agreeable 53. Small island 54. Winglike 55. Permits

email classifieds@ ngtimes.ca for pricing 10

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

For what it’s worth

Buffalo Springfield (L to R)... Neil Young, Ritchie Furay, Dewey Martin, Stephen Stills and Bruce Palmer in 1967

by David Shanahan Late in 1966, a song turned up on the radio that would become an icon of the age. The band was Buffalo Springfield, and the song was For What It’s Worth. It opens with a sparse drum beat and harmonic notes on a guitar, setting up an atmosphere that the lyrics confirmed.

“Something’s happening here. What it is ain’t exactly clear. But there’s a man with a gun over there telling me I got to beware”. The guitar notes were played by Canadian Neil Young, and the drummer was another Canadian, Dewey Martin, born in Chesterville, Dundas County, in 1940.

Dewey’s real name was Walter Milton Dwayne Midkiff, and he grew up in Chesterville, Smiths Falls and Ottawa, changing his name when he began playing with various bands around the Ottawa Valley. He moved down to Nashville and played with artists like Carl Perkins, The Everly Brothers, Patsy Cline, Charlie Rich, Faron Young and Roy Orbison. It was obvious he had talent and Neil Young was later to remark on Dewey’s feel for the music he played. “He was a sensitive drummer,” Young says in his biography Shakey. “You get harder, he hits harder. You pull back, he hits back. He can feel the music — you don’t have to tell him.”

actly clear, were the words that ran through his head.

When he brought the song to a recording session, he told producer Ahmet Ertegun, that he had another song, “for what it’s worth”. It became the title.

Dewey Martin’s introduction to the song, along with Neil Young’s harmonic notes, raised the song from being a good acoustic folk song to something greater than the sum of its parts.

Stephen Stills has always stated that Dewey’s drum intro gave the song that extra edge. Dewey also sang backing vocals on the chorus of the song. It wasn’t the only vocal contribution he made to the band, taking lead on others songs too.

Even while part of Buffalo Springfield, Dewey continued to work as a session musician, playing on sessions with the Monkees, among others. But Buffalo Springfield only lasted about three years, before personality clashes and other issues led to its demise. Bruce Palmer was deported to Canada for drug offenses. Stephen Stills joined with David Crosby of the Byrds and

He moved to Los Angeles for the climate, or so he claimed, and worked in a number of bands, touring in support of groups like the Beach Boys and Herman’s Hermits. By the time he auditioned to join Buffalo Springfield, he already had quite an eclectic background as a musician.

Buffalo Springfield has a strong Canadian content.

Stephen Stills had met Neil Young of Winnipeg when he was gigging in Thunder Bay. When they got together in L.A., they were joined by bass player Bruce Palmer from Toronto, as well as Dewey Martin. Richey Furay on rythm guitar and vocals. Stills wrote For What It’s Worth when the City of Los Angeles imposed a curfew on the Sunset Strip because young people at some clubs there were spilling out into the streets late at night, causing neighbours to complain. Passing by the Pandora’s Box club one evening, Stills saw a crowd of young people faced by a strong cohort of police in riot gear.

Something’s happening here, but what it is ain’t ex-

Graham Nash of The Hollies to form the eponymous trio, later joined by Neil Young, on and off. Richie Furay went on to form Poco with future Eagles Timothy B. Schmit and Randy Meisner.

Dewey Martin didn’t have as bright a future. He even worked as a mechanic during times out of work as a musician. Short-lived bands followed one another over the decades, and he never again attained the level of success and fame as he had with Buffalo Springfield. In 1970, he was back in Ottawa and living with his mother, but he returned to the States in 1971 and carried on gigging with various combina-

tions of musicians. He did enjoy some late recognition in 1997, when Buffalo Springfield was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Dewey Martin died on January 31, 2009, in his apartment in Van Nuys, California, apparently of natural causes. He was just 68.

Walter Milton Dwayne Midkiff had travelled far from Chesterville and enjoyed a long career in the music he loved to play. If only for that astounding part he played in For What It’s Worth, he will be remembered with respect and appreciation by generations.

COLLISION CENTER Phil Carkner, Owner

613.774.2733

www.dscollision.com

admin@dscollisioncenter.com 12029 Dawley Drive, Winchester, ON Certified collision center.

Insurance approved.

Lifetime warranty on repairs.

24 Hour Towing Assitance 1.800.663.9264

It ’s your choice , choose local

Recognizing World Elder Abuse Prevention Day submitted by Carefor June 15 is observed as World Elder Abuse Prevention Day. It's important to recognize not all seniors are in the best of circumstances.

It's estimated that 7 to 10% of older Canadians are victims of elder abuse.

Physical, sexual, psychological, or financial abuse can result in distress, impairment, or bodily injury. Every senior deserves the right to feel safe, and live free from abuse.

The theme of World Elder Abuse Prevention Day for 2021 is "Rights don't get old."

Basic human rights of older Canadians are challenged and undercut every day and, tragically, this has never been more true than over the last year during the COVID-19 pandemic. It's estimated that 1 in 6 seniors are victims of elder abuse.

Within the Eastern Counties alone, the Carefor Elder Abuse Prevention Program has seen an increase of over 40% in elder abuse cases since March 2020.

Tanya Mayich, Carefor's Elder Abuse Prevention Coordinator, and Community June 16, 2021

Network Chair for the Prevention of Elder Abuse for the Eastern Counties and Akwasasne shared, "Seniors who lack capacity or have serious medical issues can be taken advantage of by the people closest to them. It is key to have good support around these seniors."

It is imperative within our local community that we educate ourselves of the universal warning signs and the associated risk factors concerning elder abuse, and advocate for the rights of seniors. Tanya explained, "This day is celebrated to advocate for seniors so their voices can be heard. We must acknowledge elder abuse as a public and human rights issue throughout the community and around the world. Every older adult deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we can only make a difference if we mobilize together as a community."

Seniors have the right to live free from abuse and you can make a difference.

If you know a senior experiencing any type of abuse, if you need support, or have

any questions or need further information, call Carefor's Elder Abuse Prevention Coordinator at 613 932-3451 ext. 4244 or visit www.elderabusepreventionservices.com.

About Carefor and the Elder Abuse Prevention Program Carefor is a local not-forprofit charity that provides home healthcare and community support services across Eastern Ontario. Whether in the home, in the community, at care facilities or one of its clinics, 1,500 staff are part of the circle of care that is tailored to clients' needs.

The Elder Abuse Prevention Program served over 140 vulnerable seniors this past year in the Eastern Counties.

For more information about Carefor, please visit www. carefor.ca. For more information about Elder Abuse and the Elder Abuse Prevention Program, please visit www.elderabusepreventionservices. com.

11

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

UCDSB Board of Trustees’ Meeting At its June 2 meeting, the UCDSB Board of Trustees recognized the 215 children whose remains were found buried at the former Kamloops Residential School in British Columbia. “This news confirms what we had heard from Indigenous peoples over the years and was confirmed by the final report of the federal Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2015. There is a legacy of significant harm, loss, and lasting impacts brought by the residential school system for the Indigenous peoples of Canada,” said Chair John McAllister.

“This is not what schooling is all about, and this is not supposed to be the end goal of schools. We are saddened by such a terrible loss and appalled by the failure of those who were in positions of responsibility and leadership who abdicated their duty of care of those who were vulnerable and innocent.”

McAllister reiterated what the UCDSB is currently doing to turn intention into action with Truth and Reconciliation, and due to the school board’s commitment to supporting the needs

of Indigenous students and also to teaching all students about Indigenous history and experience, that the UCDSB received the second highest amount of Indigenous education funding of any board in Ontario, irrespective of size.

McAllister then asked for a moment of silence in honour of the 215 children.

Trustees Approve 202122 Budget Trustees voted unanimously to approve the 202122 school year budget.

The 2021-22 budget, as presented by the finance teams includes $385.8 million in funding and $385.5 million in expenses, with a projected year-end surplus of $0.4 million.

Budget highlights include: a $48.9 million special education budget, which represents 12.8 per cent of the Board's expense budget. $1 million for mental health supports $4.6 million for Indigenous Education supports $1.2 million for ongoing remote digital learning supports. $1.1 million continued

investment in student technology. $300,000 to support the Kemptville Apprenticeship Program?.

The school board also plans to invest $50 million in school and childcare capital construction, additions, improvements, and retrofits?

Staff also created a $2.2 million contingency fund to support ongoing COVID-19 responses, including increased sick leave utilization, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other exceptional needs not covered by onetime provincial supports. This funding is above the $4 million commitment the Ministry of Education has allocated to the UCDSB or ongoing responses to COVID-19.

Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement & Wellness Presented to Trustees Staff provided an overview of how the UCDSB implemented its action plan for the Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement & Wellness (BIPSAW), which focused this year on learning recovery and renewal, student mental health and well-being,

and equity.

Staff outlined items completed this past school year that focused on these specific elements, such as the development of a district-wide student success team that support learners and plan strategies for student success. Over a three-month period, this team connected with 150 students.

The upcoming school year will be focused on return to school strategies for students that provide mental health and wellness resources for students.

Communications Department Reviews Past Year Trustees learned about the communication strategies implemented by the UCDSB Communications and Relationship Management (CRM) team this year, and the goals for the coming year. Staff outlined how crisis communication dominated much of the work this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This work ranged from pre-planning for the school year to direct school support during the second and third waves of the pandemic.

While the CRM department created more than 140

Cedar Glen Patio Is Open

Father’s Day Specials

THE ALBATROSS

$14.95 2Eggs, 2Bacon, 2Sausage, Beans, Home fries, Toast and choice of Pancakes or French Toast

THE 19Th HOLE $19.99 Mexican Burger Beef Poutine Large Triple Bogey Draught

HOLE IN ONE

$24.95 Tossed or Caesar Salad 8OZ Steak with Grilled Shrimp and Scallop Skewer Choice of Baked Mashed or Fries, Cabbage Salad, Chocolate Caramel Brownie or Blueberry Custard Tart

REGULAR MENU & TAKE OUT AVAILABLE Call to Order (613)535-2323

pieces of communication related to the pandemic, the team also continued to share positive news and success stories to ensure the school board district sees all the good things happening within the school communities. The CRM department also provid-

ed strategic communication planning, content development, marketing and program roll outs including the Level 1 Apprenticeship Program launch at the Kemptville Campus, the Fentanyl and Youth Live Events and This Is Us Video Series.

The Oldford Team: The Trusted Name to Do it Right

2840 Beach

KEMPTVILLE - Duplex, plus in-law suite and 41 acres of land! This property doesn't come available often - 2 2 bedroom units plus a 1 bedroom inlaw suite, updated heating plus barn for storage or animals! MLS #1244348 $749,900

3055 timmins

INKERMAN - Come fall in love with this 4 bed, 2.5 bath home - complete with luxurious finishes, granite countertops and updated ensuite. Enjoy the hot summer by the inground pool.

MLS #1244620 $569,000

883 Notre Dame

EMBRUN - This all brick, 3 bedroom bungalow with single car garage offers a spacious kitchen, dining area and a lower level family room providing a great spot for gatherings with space for kids and a wet bar for adults. MLS#1242424 $359,900

13 Alyssa

MOREWOOD - Single Owner 2bed home with 2car detached garage.

Updated laminate & Vinyl flooring, refreshed kitchen with island and doors leading to two-tiered deck, partially finished basement.

MLS#1245670 $379,900

7949 Belmeade

VERNON - A great opportunity for a farmer to pick up ~50 acres of tile-drained farmland and ~15 acres of wooded land plus a 4bedrm, 2 full bath home on 3 acres, older barn, carriage shed & Corral. MLS #1235863 $1,295,000

3541 Bongers

HULBERT - This fantastic 17 acres has a 4 bed, 3 bath home, 6000sq ft machine shop, 96 x 60 Coverall and massive barn formerly used for Dairy cows. 13 of the acres are tile drained! MLS #1234710 $849,000

Our Sales Representatives

Call today for a FREE consultation Emily Blanchard June 16, 2021

Kim Monkhouse

613-774-2323 WWW.OLDFORD.CA

Nathan Lang

12

www.ndtimes.ca