ND Times Issue 27 2021 September 8

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

The Voice of North Dundas

Vol 2, No 27

September 8, 2021

St. Paul’s Community Garden donates 257 pounds of food

NOW

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

HIRING TECHS

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

WE ARE THE JOB YOU’LL LOVE

Available Here!

APPLY NOW

https://pdpower.ca/careers

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

Service • Repair • Tires

613-774-6619 12024 Dawley Drive Winchester

567 St. Lawrence St, Winchester

613-774-2520

A team of community garden volunteers and friends of the garden are seen in this photo with the completed shed, purchased with a grant from Enbridge Come see Mike for old-school service, product knowledge & competitive pricing.

613-822-6226 12024 Dawley Drive Winchester

www.nolimitsautoparts.ca

by Jane Schoones Clients of the food bank operated by Community Food Share have been the recipients of 257 pounds of fresh garden produce this summer, thanks to the efforts of the dedicated volunteers at St. Paul’s Community Garden.

On the grounds of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Winchester, the garden is a cooperative project of the church and Community Food Share serving Dundas & Stormont.

As the gardening season winds down for the summer, thanks are due to the Com-

munity Garden volunteers for dedication to planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting the bountiful produce from the garden. Thanks are also extended to Tom Clapp and St Paul’s for the welcoming sitting area, where volunteers and visitors can take a break.

The garden, begun in 2018, quickly outgrew its small storage area and, thanks to a grant from Enbridge, a much-needed larger garden shed was purchased and erected by a group of volunteers.

The Township of North Dundas got on board and provided

a grant for a washing station, where vegetables could be cleaned before going to the food bank.

As a community project, the garden was fortunate to receive a donation in the spring from K2D2 of compost for the garden. And, also in the spring, Galactic Gardens & Plot of Earth donated plants.

Now, as the volunteers look toward next year’s garden, a fund-raising project is in the works. Fries for Charity will be held at St Paul’s Church, 517 Main Street, Winchester, during the GARDEN PARTY

MARKET on September 11, from 1 to 3 p.m.

The Community Garden has proven to be a welcome addition to the variety of projects and events that help to make Community Food Share the successful organization that it is. Remember: “We have food and are ready to help”.

If you, or someone you know, is in need of food, please call (613)-774-0188 Winchester, or (613)-5430065 Morrisburg for assistance.

YOUR LOCAL AGGREGATE SUPPLIER - SERVING DUNDAS & GRENVILLE COUNTIES

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

DELIVERY AVAILABLE » TOPSOIL » SAND » GRAVEL

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

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Honest, Easy, Auto Parts

WWW.WKCLTD.CA

The North Dundas Times

100 Men Who Care returns to North Dundas

by Dan Gasser After taking a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the popular 100 Men Who Care fundraising event is returning to North Dundas to raise another $10,000 for a local charity’s project.

The event will take place at the Chesterville Legion on Thursday, October 14 and registration is now open at www.100northdundas.com.

The fundraising pitch is simple: 100 men bring $100 each to a one-hour event to raise $10,000, all of which will go to local charities voted on by the participants. While the event is not capped at 100 participants, there is expected to be a limit due to the venue’s COVID-19 capacity restrictions. Men interested in more information and wanting to reserve a spot can visit www.100northdundas.com.

Regular email updates will be provided to the enrolled men.

The $100 donation is not required at the time of online registration, but rather participants bring a blank cheque or cash with them on October 14. All participants will receive a $100 tax receipt

Re-dedication of Morewood Cenotaph postponed

by Bill Smirle, Chairman, Morewood Cenotaph Committee The Morewood Cenotaph Committee (MCC) wishes to announce the re-dedication of the Morewood Cenotaph scheduled for 6:30 pm, Friday, September 10, 2021, has been cancelled and tentatively re-scheduled for Wednesday, July 6, 2022. The Morewood Cenotaph Committee feels strongly that all area residents and visitors deserve the opportunity to attend and participate safely in this historic event, and attendance should not be restricted to only those in an official capacity able to attend.

At this time, the decision to re-schedule the event was due to the uncertainty surrounding the recent “upswing” in cases of COVID-19, with many of these caused by the Delta variant. Several factors were considered in making September 8, 2021

this difficult decision, which included reluctance on the part of some residents and visitors to attend, local officials advising on the need for caution when planning a community event such as this, and some participants in the commemorative event notifying the committee they have been advised not to attend. As well, there is uncertainty regarding what rules will be in place for outdoor events, including the size of groups able to gather for outdoor events in September, and personal health considerations.

Background Information on the Morewood Cenotaph – Prepared by John Grove Vice Chair MCC The Morewood Cenotaph is considered by many to be of particular significance and has stood in the community of Morewood for over 100 years.

In the spring of 1919, a small group of citizens

Freshly baked goods

cerns, events have been canfor their donation.

“Something super inspir- celled since March, 2020. The ing”, said MP Eric Duncan, 100 Who Care committees in a founding member of the North Dundas rallied together • Brakes • Vehicle repairs 100 Who Care movement in last November to help raise • Class “A” Mechanic •fundsSuspension for the North Dundas North Dundas. “Something Tire Sales • Sale of Quality Pre- •Christmas fund, a joint volelse that’s pretty cool.”

•unteer AireffConditioning Owned Vehicles ort supported by all There are thousands of • Flat Bed Tow Truck • Alignments chapters of the “100 Who of our local Lions Clubs, the Care” movement, including House of Lazarus, Commu613-989-3839 both Men’s and Women’s nity Food Share, and many of County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario chapters in North Dundas our local churches. That genwhich were established in erated an impressive $14,450.

Any charity or organiza2018. Each group held exceptionally successful events in tion who supports North Dun2018 and 2019, raising more das and is able to issue a tax than $60,000 combined for receipt is invited to present at local charities, including the the 100 Men Who Care event.

House of Lazarus’s Handy- Information on how to apply man Heroes Program, Com- can be found on the website. munity Food Share, the Winchester Hospital and more.

Due to public health con-

the project, which included statue cleaning, World War One plaque repair, fence repair, new paving stones for an accessible walkway around the Cenotaph to view the individual polished black granite pillars, a new flag pole, fence repair and landscaping, was just under $70,000. A grant of $25,000 was applied for and received from the Veteran’s

formed the Morewood Memorial Association, with the primary goal of finding a way to mark the sacrifices of soldiers from the region. They contracted a J.P. Laurin Monuments of Ottawa to deliver four blocks of Stanstead, Quebec granite, to be surmounted by a 7-foot Barre, Vermont granite statue of Capt. Ernest Glasgow. The statue was completed and unveiled officially on July 6, 1921.

The Association continues today, normally referring to themselves as the Morewood Cenotaph Committee.

In 2016, the current Morewood Cenotaph Committee met and decided there should be a commemorative event for the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Morewood Cenotaph. Two years later, it was decided to add images of the soldiers whose names appear on the bronze plaques, in an effort to assist people to remember they were more than just names.

While researching World War One attestation papers, it was discovered a soldier from Morewood was killed overseas and his name was not listed on the plaque. The Committee decided his name should be added to the list located on the Cenotaph by adding a bronze plaque for the missing soldier’s name below the World War One plaque. They decided to add a polished black granite pillar which recognizes those combatants who returned home, but suffered from physical or mental injuries as a result of their service for the remainder of their lives.

The estimated cost for

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

Affairs Canada (VAC) with about $45,000 raised by private and business donations.

Despite delays on many parts of the project due to COVID-19, the project is complete. Visitors to the Cenotaph will notice two ranks, or rows, of the upright black polished black granite pillars which are located to the right and

left side of the Cenotaph.

Each of the pillars will have either the image of the soldier, or that of a World War One Canada Badge, when images could not be found.

In the shadow of the main cenotaph stands the solitary monument recognizing those who returned home, but suffered

VOTE THIS WEEKEND. Need a ride? 1-855-505-3742

ERIC DUNCAN Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry

A plan for Canada 1. SECURE JOBS by recovering the 1 million jobs lost during the pandemic within one year.

2. SECURE ACCOUNTABILITY

by enacting a new Anti-Corruption law to clean up the mess in Ottawa.

3. SECURE MENTAL HEALTH

through our Canada Mental Health Action Plan.

4. SECURE THE COUNTRY

by creating a strategic stockpile of essential products and building the capacity to manufacture vaccines at home.

5. SECURE OUR ECONOMY by balancing the budget over the next decade.

My Local Priorities in SDSG Improve communications and operations to address the low-water level issues in St. Lawrence River.

Transfer Transport Canada Waterfront Lands to local control so you decide their future use, not Ottawa.

Get our fair share of funds for our local infrastructure priorities.

Stand up for our strong agriculture sector, including supply management.

Maintaining and enhancing Local VIA Rail Service.

2

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Another view of climate change

by Christine Dorothy I would like to acknowledge my appreciation of The Times for their open and objective platform which provides an opportunity for robust debate on controversial issues such as man made climate change. It’s truly a positive experience that Fred Schueler, Colin Creasey and Mannie Giles took the time to contribute so extensively to the conversation, and that The Times gave us the opportunity to put our views forward.

A good place to start is what we do agree on. Firstly, climate is changing and, secondly, we need to take better care of the earth. The question is how much is caused by us. To my knowledge, there is no conclusive evidence or measurement that human activity is causing a dangerous rise in temperature. We can do a much better job cleaning up the earth.

That being said, it cannot be proven that a clean earth will stop the climatic swings.

Al Gore did much to vilify CO2 when, in actuality, it is correlated to, but not causing, the climate to

warm. The warming takes place first, and then warmer air can hold more CO2. And it is not toxic. For example, when you are in a crowded room, CO2 levels can go as high as 3000ppm and no one gets sick. It is estimated that the Mount St Helen’s volcanic eruption in 1980 spewed more CO2 and green house gasses than man has in his entire history, and we didn’t die, nor did the temperatures rise. But CO2 now has a bad reputation, and that reputation precedes any discussion that takes place. So lets have a look at some facts about CO2.

CO2 levels were lower in the 30’s, which was the hottest decade on record. A record breaking heat wave in California in 1923, with temperatures over 100 degrees, lasted over thirty days, with the hottest day being 134 degrees. Scientist William Happer believes, “We are really in a CO2 famine now…..

Most of the time CO2 levels have been 1000 ppm.” (an idea supported by 'The Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research') “There isn’t the slightest evidence that more CO2 has caused extreme

weather. For example, earlier temperatures were similar to today’s when CO2 levels 5X’s higher…”

And these levels obviously had nothing to do with the burning of fossil fuels which are named the culprit of rising CO2 levels today. Takeda Kunihiko, Vice Chancellor of the Institute of Science and Technology at Chubu University in Japan states, “CO2 emissions make absolutely no difference one way or the other…... Every scientist knows this, but it doesn’t pay to say so.” New Zealand climate scientist Chris de Freitas believes, “The influence of increasing CO2 on global weather is almost indiscernible.” This must be the case, since CO2 levels during an ice age were 10X’s higher than today.

These natural variations occurred, and science cannot differentiate between what man is causing and what is natural. Apparently, CO2 levels could double and we wouldn’t notice any difference in the weather.

So if its not CO2, what is it that causes these swings between warming and cool-

ing? There are hundreds of influencers, some of which are solar activity, water, water vapour, methane, clouds, ocean cycles, plate tectonics, atmospheric dust, cosmic rays, and forests. Water vapour is by far the greatest factor, influencing 90% of warming and having a far higher concentration in the atmosphere than CO2.

We have been inundated with misinformation in order to support the ‘climate emergency'. For example we have been led to believe polar bears are 'starving to death’ because of climate change, when, in actual fact, their numbers have quadrupled since the 1960’s. Susan Crockford did a study on this and writes about it in her book “The Polar Bear Catastrophe That Never Happened”. Another alarming headline: “Arctic Ocean Getting Warm: Seals Vanish and Icebergs Melt”, was the cry in the Washington Post in November of 1922. Arctic sea ice was 22% greater in 2016 than in 2012. The decline in Arctic ice ceased in 2007, it plateaued and now is growing, apparently part of a 60 year cycle, according to

Township responds to residents’ recreation concerns

by Brandon Mayer Some residents have raised concerns to the Times about a lack of recreational amenities that are easily accessible from their town.

A primary concern is that new residents in the urban areas – especially those with children – feel there is a lack of recreation opportunities without driving to a destination outside of town. This creates issues, in particular for families who do not own vehicles, or require equipment such as a bike rack for their vehicle.

One resident raised the issue of a walking and biking trail between Winchester and Chesterville – along Gypsy Lane – which was rumoured to be slated for development and beautification, only to have the project shut down.

Calvin Pol, the Director of Planning, Building, and Enforcement for the Township of North Dundas, was able to provide some clarification when contacted by the Times.

“A trail of sorts was created when the Township connected the water systems between Chesterville and Winchester,” Calvin September 8, 2021

wrote. “Parts of the unopened sections of Gray Road and Gypsy Lane were put into gravel as part of the project, and are used as a trail by ATVs, snowmobiles, and pedestrians.”

In correspondence, Calvin was able to point to other recreational amenities in North Dundas that residents can access. For example, the Township worked with South Nation Conservation (SNC) in 2018 and 2019 to establish the Oschmann Forest trail in Ormond. The Oschmann Forest Conservation Area is a converted maple farm, home of SNC’s Maple Syrup Education Program and featuring 1.2 km of education-filled nature trails.

Another available recreational amenity is the Oak Valley Pioneer Park in Winchester Springs, which boasts 10 acres of land that can be used for walking, fishing, geocaching, and more. Other newer projects include new parkland in South Mountain acquired by the Township in 2016, and a new passive park in Hallville for which Council authorized a transfer to SNC just a few months ago, in June.

Ron Clutz of 'Science Matters’. Fears of NE Greenland melting occur in the warming cycles, as in 1817, 1904, and 1940.

We have been told that forest fires have increased due to recent climate change.

Forest fires have nothing to do with CO2, but rather with warmer fluctuations in the weather. For example, the 30’s had extremely hot temperatures and burn acreage was at 50 million acres, according to the US Forest Service. Compare that to this year at 10 million acres, as reported in the National Interagency Fire Center. Preindustrial burn acreage was around 145,000 per year when CO2 levels were around 300 ppm.

Floods are way down as well. The flooding in Europe recently is extremely rare and severe. However, historically floods were much worse than today. To cite a few: floods killed 15,000 in Germany in 1634; 14,000 in the Netherlands in 1717; 10,000 in Russia in 1824; 1,917 in Italy in 1970; and 172 in Russia in 2012. The floods of 1913 in the US, coupled with raging tornados and fires, caused

loss of life and devastated territories, leading to famine and disease. One of the worst floods in 1925 killed 1,000 people. In 1936, the whole eastern US was flooded. Millions of floods have occurred in our history. They are not new.

Alarmists stories go like this: In 1988, the UN claimed the Maldives would be underwater in thirty years, and James Hanson of NASA claimed Lower Manhattan would be underwater by that time as well. It's three years past that date and the Maldives and Lower Manhattan seem to be still there and not under water. In summary, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, and floods are part of the weather system, and they are not increasing as the climate alarmists would like you to believe.

There is only one truth out there, and I do believe we are all sincerely trying to find out what it is. Maybe searching for it outside of government documents would be a start.

ST. CLARE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

YARD SALE

Significant effort goes into planning recreational amenities in a municipality, and Council has to operate within the confines of the law. For example, when developers buy land to create a new subdivision, the municipality can take a portion of the land to use for parks and other recreational purposes, but this is limited to 5% of the land. In other words, Township officials do not have an unlimited power to develop parkland wherever they please.

Residents looking for more things to do in their local area should visit the Township of North Dundas website at www.northdundas.com/community-recreation/attractions.

Saturday September 11th from 8-12 Tables available to rent for $10.

Call Sandra Weagant 613-989-2823.

2530 Falcone, Winchester.

Counties Administration Building reopens to the public The United Counties of SDG administration building in Cornwall has reopened to the public with specific protocols to ensure physical distancing and other COVID-19 mitigation measures are followed. The building is open from 8:30 am to noon, and 1 to 4 pm Monday to Friday.

The administration building was shuttered earlier this year to protect against the spread of the pandemic. Staff continued working remotely until this spring, when they then returned to the building.

Visitors to the Counties Administration Building must: • Wear a mask.

• Sanitize hands upon entry with the provided sanitizer.

• Follow hand and respiratory etiquette while on-site.

• Practice two-metre physical distancing.

• Be courteous and yield to others in close quarters.

• Limit the number of visitors to only those required to be present.

• Pay with a card instead of cash, when possible.

• Remain home if showing signs of illness, awaiting COVID-19 test results, or if you have been in close contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19.

“These protocols will protect our visitors, staff, and others, while helping to stamp out the spread of COVID-19,” said CAO Tim Simpson. “We will continue to evaluate our protocols and make changes as required.”

Because the building is now open to the public, the lockbox used at the main entrance for drop-offs has been removed.

Counties Council is meeting in-person at the administration building, but due to space limitations, only staff are allowed in the council chambers at the same time. All Counties Council meetings are streamed live on YouTube.

Send in your letters, stories, events to editor@ ndtimes.ca 3

www.ndtimes.ca

Guest Editorial

The North Dundas Times

Rights and responsibilities

by Rachel Everett-Fry

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The relationship between the individual and society is one that has been scrutinized, time and again since our earliest written records.

Thomas Hobbes, back in the 17th century, argued that in a state of nature, “the life of man [is�] nasty, brutish, and short.”

Following this supposition, he developed a strain of political philosophy that we now know as social contract theory.

This theory was built upon by Jean-Jacques Rousseau in the 18th century, who basically argued that to leave the nasty state of nature, humans can choose to transfer individual personal rights and freedoms to the interests of their community, in ex-

change for the security and enjoyment that community affords. This is only possible because humans are rational beings who can balance their personal liberties with an understanding of the greater good.

Since this time, most political philosophy has taken up social contract theory in one way or another.

This is all to say that many of the debates we find ourselves ensnared in today are certainly not new. How many personal rights and freedoms should a person have to give up?

Who decides what the greater good involves?

The Province has faced massive backlash from the public since announcing its plan to require vaccination passports to access certain indoor establishments.

Even people who have chosen to be vaccinated

argue that governmental mandates on an individual’s body and health choices goes too far. Take our own Brandon Mayer for example. Proponents of this point of view have a clear message: people have a right to bodily autonomy.

At the same time, however, many protests against vaccine mandates are taking place outside of hospitals. Not only is this exhausting for medical staff who have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic, but it is actually preventing people from receiving timely medical care. In fact, paramedics across the country are reporting extreme delays in responding to emergencies - delays that can cost lives.

Individuals protesting for their rights are doing so at a cost to the lives and wellbeing of others.

The question of how much control the government should have over individual choices, and what the powers of government to enforce this control should involve, are questions that we must continually pose. But let us not forget one of the bedrocks of political thought: as rational beings, we can balance personal liberty with an understanding of the greater good. Protest is a personal liberty. Bodily autonomy is a personal liberty. But is it fair for either to take precedence over the capacity for others to access health care?

In any number of discussions over contentious issues, we focus more on rights than on responsibilities. This seems to me a mistake. Being members of a community means that we have to look out

for one another: because we live in a community with other people, our lives are entwined. Our choices inherently affect more than just ourselves, and therefore responsibility involves considering those other people that our choices affect.

Sometimes, it’s not about your individual rights. It’s about your community, and the responsibility that you have to it.

back to the same restrictions we have cooperated with for 20 months, we will know why, but we will still not understand those who are so uncaring and selfish.

Shirley Price North Grenville

frequent rapid-testing.

The right to move freely within our society, while complying with reasonable precautions such as masking and distancing.

The right to confidentiality of our medical files is protected in Canada’s Privacy Act — what gives a shop owner the right to view anything in your personal medical file?

We, as a society, should NOT need a reminder that EVERYONE needs to speak out when civil, human, privacy rights are being violated as is the case with “forced vaccines” and “vaccine passports”. This is not the early days of Nazi Germany where the rights of one tier of society (in that case, the Jewish community and other ethnic groups) were being increasingly violated and most people did not speak out against it, remained silent (denoting consent), complied with it or, worse, actively took part in it.

I am reminded of a quote

by Pastor Martin Niemoeller: "First they came for the Communists, but I was not a Communist so I did not speak out. Then they came for

the Socialists and the Trade Unionists, but I was neither, so I did not speak out. Then they came for the Jews, but I was not a Jew so I did not speak out. And when they came for me, there was no one left to speak out for me.”

These rights apply to EVERYONE and EVERYONE should be taking a stand for them. That is what Canada is all about!

Mrs. Janice Atkey Videto Winchester

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

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

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

The Voice of Our Community

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I was shocked by the rioting and invasion of the Capitol building in Washington in January and a bit smug thinking that kind of thing doesn't happen in Canada.

Well, it is close to it when people threaten and hurl verbal abuse and insults at the Prime Minister in the name of their misinterpretation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

It is the responsibility of the government, whichever Party is in power, to act for the greater good of all even if sometimes it curtails the individual Canadian's activities.

We need a licence to drive.

We cannot access health care unless we show our health card. We may not smoke in public areas. There is nothing new here. Pierre Trudeau froze wages and prices. During WWII everyone over 16 had to register and carry their registration card at all times.

Most school boards have for years required children to be vaccinated in order to attend school. I am sure that anyone who is reading this could add to my list of actions that are in place for the greater good

of all citizens.

Citizen writer Ivison writes that these protests are a complicated situation.

Hogwash!

Most of us were so relieved to be vaccinated and to see that many restrictions that were in place to keep us safe could be lifted. These people are selfish individuals who do not give a damn for the children who cannot yet be vaccinated, who have not a clue about the history of vaccines and the lives they have saved all around the world. They are either unaware of or do not care that measles, whooping cough, scarlet fever, mumps, spinal meningitis, diphtheria, tuberculosis, and polio have been eradicated in most parts of the world thanks to vaccines. Do the diabetics among them refuse insulin injections?

Where is their common sense when they find out that the majority, I have read 90%, of those now contracting this virus are the unvaccinated?

Or are they like the Trumpers who believe every lie and conspiracy theory they are fed?

If September brings us

Dear Editor, Kudos for the Op-Ed by Brandon Mayer titled “Vaccine Mandates Prove the Death of Free Choice". I have been surprised and disappointed that more people (vaccinated or not vaccinated) have not spoken up about the civil rights violations, privacy concerns, and bioethics issues that Brandon highlighted so eloquently. A two-tiered society is a violation of everything our country is supposed to stand for.

The right of dominion over your own body to choose what is injected into it is guaranteed in Canada’s Rights and Freedoms Act and the Universal Declarations of Bioethics and Human Rights.

The right to employment free from harassment and threats, while complying with reasonable mandates such as

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

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

Production

Email: production@ndtimes.ca 613 215 0735

September 8, 2021

Dear Editor, I believe it would be helpful to the voters of Stormont, Dundas, South Glengarry if your media outlet would provide local coverage of the federal election. You are a news outlet and I believe this qualifies as news. At the very least, publication of each of the local candidates' names would be a service to your readers.

Looking forward to your future coverage of this news.

Mary MacDonald-LaPrade

OFFICE 613-215-0735 Editor editor@ndtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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

Marketing/Sales

Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca 343 777 2702

4

Dear Editor, The science on climate change is as settled as the science on evolution is. The recent IPCC report drew upon 14,000 scientific papers published other the past 8 years – this is a huge body of evidence and is drawn from multiple lines of enquiry across multiple disciplines. There is absolutely no doubt that increasing levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases increase global temperatures and no doubt that human activity has caused a huge increase in atmospheric GHG concentrations. Jim Bertram quotes an article by emeritus professor William M. Gray disputing climate change, however it is important to note that professor Gray was never involved in climate change research but was an expert on hurricanes and tropical storms. Scientists are humans just like the rest of us and are subject to the same weaknesses we are all vulnerable to, including ego, jealousy and greed. It is not surprising that there are a small number of scientists who reject anthropogenic clicont'd on page 5 Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Staff Reporter Brandon Mayer brandon@ndtimes.ca

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Four decades of support Community helping community: right out of high school Mouth2Mouth Project donates to House of Lazarus after completing a co-op

by Jane Adams Next week, the WDMH team will bid a fond farewell to Connie McInnes.

Connie has been supporting WDMH teams for 41 years. In fact, Connie has provided clerical support in almost every area of the hospital - from Admitting, to Physiotherapy, to Emergency, to Diagnostic Imaging, to Central Booking, and finally to Day Surgery!

“I’m pretty easy going, and I like to go with the flow,” says Connie. “When I look back, I don’t know where the time has gone.”

Born and raised in South Mountain, Connie joined the WDMH team

placement at the hospital.

“I actually got the job before I finished my session,” she remembers. “That was a long time ago!”

Connie says her WDMH family has meant a lot. “I’ve had some real trials in my life, and they have been wonderful to me. They are like my second family and WDMH is my second home.”

She has no retirement plan, other than “not to come to work”! She will enjoy not having to get up for 6 am shifts, and plans to spend more time with her grandchildren.

Enjoy every minute, Connie!

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

Letters cont'd mate change, but they are not representative of the evidence on the subject.

Willem Van Dam has some good ideas about how CO2 emissions can be reduced. Our economies and societies have been built on fossil fuels and individual action is nowhere near enough.

We need systemic change to tackle the climate crisis.

Governments should and already are introducing bans on sales of ICE vehicles in the near future. Building codes should be amended to require high insulation, solar panels and heat pumps for new buildings and to prohibit any installation of new natural gas connections.

The number of flights does need to be reduced, and we should start with prohibiting private jets and levying heavy taxes on the small number of people who take the majority of flights. But we also need government investment alongside this in areas such as high speed rail, cycling infrastructure, internet connectivity, and requiring crown corporations to manufacture and install the insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps.

Mr Van Dam also identifies a number of other crises that we are facing at present including housing, homelessSeptember 8, 2021

ness, drugs and debt. We need to consider the root causes of these multiple crises, and the fact that we live in a highly unequal world where a small number of people control unimaginable levels of wealth and the rest of us are fighting for scraps. Thanks to the neoliberal, free market capitalism that was ushered in 40 years ago by Reagan, Thatcher and Mulroney, capital has become ever more powerful at the expense of labour. We are in the situation we are now thanks to unbridled capitalism and an unrepresentative democratic system. Unrestrained markets and continual economic growth are not the solution.

I get it, change is uncomfortable. Change is difficult.

Change is challenging. Its comforting to think we can continue to do things as we have in the recent past. But change is also necessary and rewarding. We need new economic and political models because the existing ones are not working and are threatening the continuation of human civilization. We can either make changes now or have more extreme changes forced on us later.

Steve Gabell

Debbie Amirault handed a $500 cheque to Cathy Ashby at the House of Lazarus project in March of 2020.

She reused otherwise unused material to make face masks. She describes the idea as “community helping community. The donation of fabric came from the community. And then they turn around and purchase a mask for a super low price. Then that gets donated to the community.

So it goes full circle.”

Funnily enough, Cathy Ashby, Executive Director of HOL, said that the funds raised by Debbie will be used to support the

by Rachel Everett-Fry

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Debbie Amirault of North Grenville donated $500 to House of Lazarus, the most recent donation of funds raised through the Mouth2Mouth project. Debbie has now donated over $4,800 to the Kemptville Salvation Army and the House of Lazarus.

After receiving donations of fabric from community members, Debbie started the Mouth2Mouth

House of Lazarus’ Neighbour Helping Neighbours program. This program allocates “donated money to help families: if they are in hydro arrears or if they need something done like maintenance on their vehicle. Sometimes eyeglasses, dental work, those types of things.” Cathy says that lately, “there have been a lot of requests. So this donation will really help with that. And it's neat that [Debbie] described it as community helping community. Things are

working two ways here.”

Debbie has lots of projects on the go with the hope of continuing to raise funds as demand for masks subsides. She is making poppies and knit baby hats, and brainstorming other ideas. She says “Sewing is my happy place. I think it's because of everything that's going along with what I'm doing. Giving back to the community is just so satisfying.”

The next Mouth2Mouth donation will go to the Kemptville Salvation Army. To learn more about Debbie’s work, look for Mouth2Mouth Project on Facebook or email Debbie at mouth2mouthproject@gmail.com

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

proud to partner with your local Pharmachoice

5

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Agricultural Digest

Photo Courtesy of Karlye Vingerhoed

OCPA 2021 Plowing Match results are in!

Industry Leader in Diesel Performance Truck and Tractor Maintenance & Repair

ELB Smith Farm Equipment Ltd. Sales & Service Welding & Light Machining Jonathan Stoodley

613.774.3379 613.229.2280 9190 Bank Street Winchester, On

The Ottawa Carleton Plowmen’s Association (OCPA) Plowing Match was held on August 28, 2021, hosted by Gib and Elsie Patterson at Anderson Links Golf Course in Ottawa.

The one-day, scaleddown event drew 26 plowers using both modern and vintage tractors as well as horses to vie for titles in the OCPA Plowing Match.

Judges were Ray St. Denis and Matt McGuire. Steward was Lawrence Payne.

“We had to scale things down this year with COVID and all, but we were very grateful and fortunate to host what we did,” said Sharen Armstrong, OCPA President. “We could not have done it without the unwavering support of our volunteers, plowers, and the agricultural com-

munity. Our thanks are extended to one and all.”

It was a big day for Samuel Bourgon of StIsidore who placed topof-class in: Horse Class - Jointer Plow (open split required); Best Plowed Land Using Horses; and Overall Best Plowed Land.

Willian and Frederick Machabee of St-Albert rounded off the top honours in the Horse Class winning the Jointer Plow Amateur division.

In the conventional division, Allen Hills of Ashton, came out on top winning Best in Class (age 21 and over) and Best Plowed Land Using a Conventional Plow. Jean-Marc Dessaint of Sarsfield and Gordon Smith of Chesterville followed up with second and third respectively in the over 21 class, while

Alex Dowdall of Lanark won the Conventional, 15 years and under class.

There was a strong showing in the antique plow classes. Jean-Guy Thivierge of Hammond, took top honours in the Antique Tractor: Trail Plow Class – 1945 or older (open split required) followed by André Joly also of Hammond in second.

Antique Tractor: Trail Plow Class – 1946 to 1960 (open split required) was won by Michel Calande of Alfred, followed by Paul Bourbonnais of Sarsfield in second and Russell Jones of Lyndurst in third. Michel Calande also earned top title as Best Plowed Land Using an Antique Plow.

Top posting in Antique Tractor: Mounted Plow (open split required) went

to Nicole Calande of Alfred and second to Denis Bourbonnais of Gatineau.

All plowers must compete at local matches to be eligible to advance to the International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo. Unfortunately, 2021 marks the second consecutive year that the IPM has been cancelled due to COVID-19. The next IPM is scheduled to be held in Kemptville, September 20-24, 2022, at the former Kemptville College of Agriculture & Technology (KCAT) campus.

Plans are also progressing for IPM 2023 to be held in Dufferin County and IPM 2024 in Kawartha Lakes (Lindsay).

Ontario Investing in Agri-Food Innovation

The Ontario government is investing in new partnerships in agri-food innovation, including pilot projects in robotics and artificial intelligence, to help the industry address pandemic related challenges, ongoing labour shortages, and create new opportunities for growth across the sector.

The Innovator Stream is the targeted second phase of the Agri-tech Innovation Program, a $22 million program launched in April to provide up to 60% funding for eligible costs, to a maximum of $750,000, to develop largerscale collaboration projects aimed at enhancing the health and safety of workers and increasing productivity.

“Investing in new technology will have tremendous potential to help our agri-food industry meet many of the current challenges it faces,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “I’m calling on agri-food businesses, commodity organizations and technology providers to join this exciting new initiative and help protect the safety of agri-food workers, while ensuring Ontario’s agrifood sector continues to lead across North American and around the world.”

The Innovator Stream intake focuses on groundbreaking projects where innovation — such as piloting

ANDRE MENARD & SONS Call

Elevator: 613-774-4246 Home: 613-774-3305 • Cell: 613-229-2142 12650 Ormond Road, Winchester, Ontario September 8, 2021

•GRAIN ELEVATORS •LICENSED ELEVATOR & GRAIN DEALER •PURCHASER OF CORN, BEAN & WHEAT •OFFERING STORAGE, DRYING, TRUCKING & CUSTOM WORK •GRAIN, HOPPERS, DUMP TRAILERS & •DROP DECK TRAILERS •TRANSPORTATION IN ONTARIO & QUEBEC 6

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

The right people The right products The right services

Fertilizer - Seed - Crop Protection Oxford Station 613-258-3451 888-342-7839

Addison 613-924-2632 877-246-5013

Crysler 613-987-5241 877-376-3378

www.harvex.com

OFA outlines key priorities for agriculture in federal election the use of autonomous farm equipment in an operational environment — is new to Ontario, North America or the agri-sector. Funding eligibility will include targeted, specialized, high-impact projects that pilot or demonstrate cutting-edge technology. Projects will require collaboration between at least two agri-food businesses, organizations and agri-food technology providers or developers.

“Innovation is the driving force of competitiveness in modern agriculture, and the key to protecting our workforce while ensuring longterm success,” said Minister Thompson.

"To be a highly competitive food and beverage processing industry globally, we must be forward thinking on innovation,” said Chris Conway, CEO, Food and Beverage Ontario. “This program will make it possible for leaders in technology and business to work together on priority issues such as labour productivity and develop new solutions that will benefit the entire industry."

“The Agri-tech Innovation Program has been, and will be, instrumental to further mobilize the Ontario agricultural innovation and technology supply chain and support the sector in meeting the demands of today and the future”, said Ian Potter, PhD, President and CEO, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland). “Working collaboratively to implement innovative business-focused technical solutions and develop best practices is the path forward.”

The Innovators Stream intake will run from August 19 to September 27, 2021.

by Mark Reusser, Vice President, OFA The agriculture and food industry is a key driver of Canada’s economy, ensuring our grocery shelves stay stocked and our food supply chain strong and viable. Each day, our farmers take the extra step to ensure resiliency in the province’s food supply chain by growing healthy and sustainable food locally.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is dedicated to ensuring our sector’s priorities remain at the forefront of the minds of our government policymakers as we move into a federal election. As Canada emerges from the pandemic and navigates the road to recovery, agriculture will remain a key driver to rebuilding our economy. Over the course of the pandemic, Ontario farmers have worked tirelessly to ensure our local communities have consistent access to a safe, nutritious, and affordable food source, with an added focus of protecting the health and safety of our vital workforce.

As the leading agricultural advocate for Ontario’s agri-food sector and rural communities, we will ensure our 38,000 farm family’s across the province have the tools, resources and support necessary to play a significant role in economic recovery.

Throughout the course of this election, OFA will be meeting with government policymakers and leaders of various political parties to ensure the needs of the

agricultural sector remain at the forefront. Our leaders will be advocating for environmental sustainability for our agri-food sector, a fair carbon pricing policy, revisions to the current business risk management program and access to skilled labour.

Farmers are natural stewards of the land. They rely on the air, soil and water to conduct their business, and have a vested interest in the sustainability of these resources. Ontario farmers have invested significantly in environmental stewardship initiatives to mitigate the impact of climate change. Farmers manage grasslands, woodlots, pastures and field crops, all part of a healthy, sustainable carbon cycle. Managing these landscapes benefits all Canadians and puts quality, locally produced food on our tables. As farming continues to evolve and practices become modernized, our hope is to have continued research, innovation and adaption of best practices or emerging technologies to ensure environmental sustainability across the agri-food sector.

We are asking political parties to do their part in developing, supporting and funding programs that recognize environmental goods and services provided by farmers. Funding these environmental goods and services will recognize the agriculture sector's role in providing environmental stewardship achievements, which in turn, will benefit our entire province.

Carbon pricing contin-

ues to be a priority of our organization as we work towards mitigating climate change. Climate change continues to drastically impact our farmer’s ability to grow a healthy abundance of local food and threatens our food supply chain.

Our farmers are in need of mitigation tools such as machinery for grain drying, livestock heating and cooling, and irrigation.

Unfortunately, mitigation tools such as these require energy, and the ability to shift to other sources or to change behavior is limited or impossible in some circumstances.

Carbon pricing policies are currently in place to provide economic disincentives to carbon emitters in order to encourage a reduction in their emissions. As of now, there are no incentive programs to compensate those already following practices to sequester carbon and reduce emissions. Because there are currently no replacements for fossil fuels for agricultural production, the current carbon tax system cannot drive conservation efforts on farms and serves only to reduce already thin farm margins.

OFA is asking political parties to support the provision of exemptions or rebates for farmers where there are no feasible alternatives. We are asking parties to ensure the revenue is being collected from any carbon pricing initiative used to assist agriculture research, innovation, adaptational and resilience building measures.

Fulfilling labour needs

has been a longstanding challenge in Ontario’s agri-food sector. There is an ongoing need for skilled workers on Canadian farms and across the agri-food industry.

Labour shortages put our countries economy at risk and threaten farmers abilities to stock our grocery stores. We want to ensure that employers across the sector have the people they need to drive our economy and feed Canadians.

We are asking for support from the leading political party to work with the agri-food industry to develop a Canadian AgriFood Labour Strategy and support our sector in the development of education programs. OFA is also seeking continual support to current programs in place that are working to address labour shortages across the country, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker program or the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program. Lastly, we are looking to the federal government to support investments in research, innovation, automation and laboursaving initiatives.

Our last priority we are bringing to the forefront is access to stronger Business Risk Management Programs (BRM) to help provide financial support to farmers when they experience losses due to risks beyond their control. We believe that as the only whole-farm BRM program, AgriStability requires revisions to better protect farmers in situations of uncertainty. We are

asking the government to continue providing farmers with stronger, more reliable access to BRM programs. Effective policies and programs are being developed in the Next Agricultural Policy Framework to assist farmers with risk management, market volatility and on-farm diversification. Agriculture is engaged in this ongoing conversation.

OFA will continue to work for our Ontario farm families to ensure the agrifood sector and rural communities are considered in any new and changing legislation, regulation or policy that impacts the profitability and sustainability of farm businesses.

Topline Trailer Equipment

Sales & Service 1226 31, Winchester, ON

613.774.0992 toplinetrailers.com

Looking to buy or sell your home?

As your Royal LePage REALTOR®, I’m committed to guiding you every step of the way.

JenniferHindorff.com

www.

Independently Owned and Operated, Brokerage

OFFICE: 613.258.1990 September 8, 2021

MOBILE: 613.218.7128

Realtor ®

jenniferhindorff@Royallepage.ca 7

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Plant trees to slow climate change – never a better time than today

by Rob Keen, CEO of Forest Recovery Canada and Forests Ontario Vast, beautiful, healthy forests define Canada, making up 38% of our land, but they are under attack. Wildfires engulf huge swaths of woodlands in British Columbia; smoke from similar infernos in north-west Ontario reaches as far as Toronto, Windsor and Ottawa. We know a main cause of this conflagration: climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) - Sixth Assessment Report, released August 9, leaves no room for debate on why the Earth is warming, but does leave some room for hope: we can still restore Earth's health.

Soon after the IPPC report appeared, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau set in mo-

tion a federal election. As Canadians prepare to vote on September 20, the climate crisis is one of the top issues in many polls. Voters want to hear what every political party will do to fight climate change.

Study upon study has told us we can cool the planet through a very Canadian activity: planting trees.

Our forests and urban trees solve many problems.

Record high temperatures have sparked heat warnings in Montreal; trees provide shade, cooling neighbourhoods by 5◦C. When we plant trees, we turn scorched lands into healthy forests. Trees absorb water, helping to prevent floods. Forests filter and purify the water we drink.

And of course, forests sequester the carbon that we’ve

released into the atmosphere that is dangerously warming our Earth.

The organizations I lead, Forest Recovery Canada and Forests Ontario, know how to grow new forests. We have planted nearly as many trees as there are Canadians – more than 36 million trees so far.

A recent study by Natural Resources Canada shows that over 50 years, the trees we have planted will sequester the equivalent of the carbon emitted by a million cars driving from Montreal to Vancouver – and back.

Canadians are good at planting trees. Ours is the rare organization that fully integrates all the components of tree planting. We carefully select and gather the best seeds of native trees, grow seedlings, then plant

the right tree in the right spot, and keep track of new forests' progress with the precision of an accountant. We work to put the right trees in the ground with First Nations, private landowners, non-profits, volunteers, governments and the corporate sector.

Each tree needs years from seed to seedling, from planting to healthy forest. To grow healthy forests that future-proof Canada and Earth requires long-term political commitment.

We, like many Canadians, are keen to learn how each party in this 44th election is incorporating tree planting as a nature-based component of their climate change response plan.

Come and enjoy the first annual North Dundas Art Show at Terrace Green B&B in Winchester from 10am to 4 pm.

Services • • •

3D Design Interlock Natural Stone

613-316-7710

• • •

Lighting Planting Water Features

www.ardron.ca

Ontario to require proof of vaccination in select settings, preparing to launch enhanced vaccine certificate and verification app To further protect Ontarians as the Province continues to confront the Delta-driven fourth wave of the COVID-19, the government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, will require people to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of their vaccination status to access certain businesses and settings starting September 22, 2021.

Requiring proof of vaccination in these settings reduces risk and is an important step to encourage every last eligible Ontarians to get their shot which is critical to protecting the Province’s hospital capacity, while also supporting businesses with the tools they need to keep customers safe, stay open and minimize disruptions. Premier Doug Ford explained "Based on the latest evidence and best advice, COVID-19 vaccine certificates give us the best chance to slow the spread of this virus while helping us to avoid further lockdowns.

If you haven’t received your first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, please do so today."

Proof of vaccination will be required in higher risk indoor public settings where face coverings cannot always be worn. Such spaces include: indoor service at restaurants and bars, nightclubs, meeting and event spaces, facilities used for sports and fitness activities, sporting events, casinos and other gaming establishments, concerts, music festivals, theatres and cinSeptember 8, 2021

emas, strip clubs, bathhouses and sex clubs, and racing venues.

These mandatory requirements would not apply to outdoor settings where the risk of transmission is lower. In addition, these requirements will not apply to settings where people receive medical care, food from grocery stores, medical supplies and the like.

Aligned with public health measures currently in place, indoor masking policies will continue to remain in place.

Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate. Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements. For the period between September 22 and October 12, 2021, it is intended that people attending wedding or funeral receptions at meeting or event spaces will be able to provide a negative rapid antigen COVID-19 test from no more than 48 hours before the event as an alternative to proof of vaccination.

Ontario will develop and provide additional tools to improve user experience, efficiency and business supports in the coming weeks, including establishing alternative tools for people with no email, health card or ID. The government will work to support implementation of vaccine certificates for Indigenous

Ontario will also introduce an enhanced digital vaccine receipt that features a QR code, which is safe, more secure and with you wherever you go.

This digital vaccine receipt can be kept on a phone and easily used to show that you've been vaccinated if you need to.

In addition, the Province will launch a new app to make it easier and more convenient for businesses and organizations to read and verify that a digital vaccine receipt is valid, while protecting your privacy.

As the 2021-22 school year begins, it is critical to

communities whether or not they have opted to enter their data into COVaxON, while maintaining Indigenous data governance, control, access and possession principles.

Ontarians currently have access to a paper or PDF vaccine receipt that includes all relevant information to prove that they are fully vaccinated.

As of September 22, Ontarians will be required to show their vaccine receipt when entering designated settings along with another piece of photo identification, such as a driver’s licence or health card.

keep Ontario schools safe and students learning in person.

The Province will work with trusted public health units to use the existing COVaxON system to safely and securely confirm the vaccination status of students. The Province is committed to keeping parents informed about how their child’s COVID-19 vaccine information and enrollment data is being used to keep schools safe. This will equip local public health units with the information they need to ensure rapid case and contact management if required to

limit disruptions in the event of cases or outbreaks and keep kids in class.

"We are already seeing a rise in the number of cases of COVD-19 as we head into the fall" said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. "As we enter the last mile push to increase vaccination rates, the introduction of a vaccine certificate is an important step to give people the tools to limit further spread of the virus so that we can ensure the safety of all Ontarians while keeping the province open and operational."

WINCHESTER 473 Main St. 613-774-2832

MORRISBURG Village Plaza 613-543-3731

PRESCOTT 270 Edward St. 613-925-5901

CRYSLER 12 Queen St. 613-987-2117

www.mcdougallinsurance.com

Offering a Variety of Coverages to Meet Your Needs • Four rural locations for your convenience • All risk replacement cost coverage on farm outbuildings • Profits insurance – loss of income • Blanket coverage on farm property of every description • Power surge

8

• Loss of use of farm machinery • Coverage for non-owned farm machinery • Broad livestock coverage including entrapment, hardware and physical injury • Pollution damage to own property

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Op-Ed: The politics of who sucks less

by Brandon Mayer How do you choose which candidate gets your vote? Do you carefully study party platforms? Maybe your personal beliefs are strongly liberal, or strongly conservative, or strongly in the middle, and so the choice is easy. Maybe the honesty or charisma of the party leader matters more to you than the party principles. For me, the choice is a lot less intellectual. For me, it comes down to which party and candidate sucks less.

In my younger days, I had strong political leanings, and I did not shy away from expressing my beliefs. Then something struck me: ALL political candidates make mistakes and get themselves tangled in crushing scandals.

That was the point when I became disheartened, and politics became a subject of backburner importance for me. I would wager that every politician has things they’ve done or said in the public’s watchful eyes and ears that they wish they could erase

from history. Dirt can be uncovered on just about any politician with little effort. I can only assume that the long list of scandals is the reason that smear campaigns now dominate Canadian politics, rather than honest discussions of which party is proposing what.

So what kind of candidate selector are you? Turns out there’s some psychology behind it. Arguably, the easiest way people choose candidates is because their parents (or someone influential to them) has had a lifelong affiliation with a certain party. Likewise, some people may have strong feelings regarding a few of a party’s policies, and develop their affiliation from there.

In either case, confirmation bias kicks in once that initial choice is made, and the person processes every decision their party leader makes in a way that makes them love him or her even more. This is the reason why, for example, devout Liberals argued that it was hypocritical for Conservatives to play the racism

Tid-Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW Today, buzz words are used frequently, but lack the true meaning. I specifically refer to the term "toxic'. In reference, toxic relationships refer to "toxic" meaning, "very harmful or unpleasant in a pervasive or insidious way". Abuse does create a toxic environment.

There is ample information on child abuse and spousal abuse, or dating abuse. The reverse of child abuse, parental abuse, is a toxic reaction. When there is s direct specific attempt to negate or demoralize an individual, it is deemed a toxic connection.

Having an opposing view or belief is not the formula for "toxic". Maturity entails accepting that someone else has a vary-

ing viewpoint and you still respect the individual. You agree to disagree. You still interact and develop a growing relationship. Throwing out the word "toxic" doesn't grant you the freedom to ignore, disrespect, or be cruel to someone. Seeking counselling around issues helps. Unfortunately, too many counsellors who have not resolved their own issues pass on prejudice to their clients.

For those who deem their parents to be toxic, I encourage you to ask yourself- "did my parent try their best to do what they felt was best for me?" That includes during pregnancy. Yes, using drugs/ alcohol during pregnancy is creating a toxic environment, resulting in FASD. Years ago, society did not know the repercussions of

card when photos emerged of Justin Trudeau in blackface.

It’s a matter of “our leader is bad, but yours is worse, because we love ours and have no excuse for him”. This is starting to sound like “who sucks less” politics, but we aren’t there yet.

Here is a test: Take your favourite party, and ask yourself for a comprehensive list of things you like about them. Then, ask yourself for a comprehensive list of things you hate about the other major parties. My guess is that the list for your preferred party will be finite, and your list for the opposing parties will have to end with “…and there’s definitely more”. Trudeau haters love to scribble “Trudeau must go” anywhere they can, and, likewise, devout Liberals point us to the mistakes of Stephen Harper and even Mike Harris, because they can’t say much about an untested Erin O’Toole. If this describes you, then the fighting children in the House of Commons have warped your DNA, and you

are now inclined to hate and smear the candidates you don’t like, instead of voting in pursuit of “good”. This is why social media political debates have their foundation in third grade nicknames such, LIEberals, CONservatives, and CRIME minister.

Assuming no intelligent responsible adult wants to act like a child, how does one be the best type of voter? What is the best type of voter? In an ideal world, it would come down to party platforms and campaign promises. In the absence of insults, scandals, and smearing, Canadians would have only the real issues to worry about. However, this requires a perfect candidate, and we have yet to see one of those. The alternative, until the kids in parliament grow up, is to vote for who will do the least harm. In other words, be like me, and become what I call a Who-Sucks-Less Candidate Selector.

indulging, but, today, such info is freely available.

Hindsight is 20/20 vision, so unless you feel/believe your parent purposefully sabotaged your well-being, you can't throw out the term toxic. Failing to show affection/respect to your parent is parental abuse. How do you know if you create a toxic relationship? Do you acknowledge their birthdate, anniversary, Mother's/ Father's Day, special occasions like Christmas etc?

God instructs us to Honor our parent. He doesn't say "to love" them but, if we follow his commandment in the New Testament to "love one another as he love us," that gives a very clear rendering of our thoughts and actions.

All too many seniors are neglected by their offspring.

Then, one day, it is too late.

You, too, will grow old Lord willing.

Today is all you have.

Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Make the most of your relationships, ensuring you are not creating harm to someone. Be mindful of your terminology and use it diplomatically, knowing someday you will be held accountable for all you say and do.

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

Hoping to Plant Trees in 2022?

by South Nation Conservation After a record breaking 2021 planting season, with more than 230,000 trees in the ground across its 4,441 squarekilometre watershed jurisdiction in Eastern Ontario, South Nation Conservation (SNC) is calling out to property owners to start planning for their spring 2022 tree planting projects!

SNC is currently booking site visits and accepting orders for locally sourced native trees and shrubs offered at reduced rates through a variety of planting programs administered by the Conservation Authority.

Residents interested in small planting projects can order a minimum of 100 tree seedlings over the counter from SNC. The Authority maintains a species list of in-stock trees on its website but notes that quantities are limited, and many species are already sold out. The price per seedling can be as low as $0.59 depending on the species.

Property owners with larger open areas of at least 1 acre can receive considerable cost savings by purchasing trees from SNC through Forest Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program, which is funded by SNC and the Federal Government. The program provides seedlings, planting, site preparation or tending for $0.26 per conifer seedling and $0.56 per hardwood seedling; making it incredibly affordable to reforest idle land. SNC also offers subsidies for 1-acre tree plantings along farm fields and watercourses to help reduce erosion, protect water quality, and increase forest cover.

“Although we’re still experiencing hot summer weather, it’s important for landowners to start the process now to first determine if they are eligible for tree planting subsidies and then get their free site visit booked for this fall,” said Caroline Goulet, SNC Forester. “Of note this year, residents looking to plant less than 1,000 trees will be limited to one species to improve program efficiencies and increase tree survival rates.

Exceptions would be made for agro-forestry plantings, such as maple orchards or nut groves.”

Since 1990, SNC has planted over 3.4 million trees across the local landscape thanks to municipal and community partnerships. Things are off to a good start as approximately 195,000 trees have already been reserved for spring 2022!

On average, since 1990, the Authority has planted 119,000 trees per year.

“We can all benefit from planting trees; they provide many benefits and services to people and the environment; and there are a variety of species suitable for every property,” added Caroline.

For more information on ordering trees, planting programs, and subsidies, please visit www.nation.on.ca/land/forestryservices/tree-planting-services, or call 1-877-984-2948.

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

COLLISION CENTER Phil Carkner, Owner

Loralee Carruthers

Realtor, Independently owned and operated

613.774.2733

www.dscollision.com

Welcome Back To School.

Have A Great Year!

Off. 613.918.0321

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

Insurance approved.

Lifetime warranty on repairs.

C. 613.407.8869

51 King St W, Brockville, On

loralee.carruthers@century21.ca

September 8, 2021

24 Hour Towing Assitance 1.800.663.9264

It ’s your choice , choose local 9

HEAPHYS CLEANING SERVICE

ALL NATURAL

DANIKA HEAPHY OWNER/CLEANER

613.206.7279 heaphyscleaningservice @gmail.com check us out on facebook @heaphyscleaningservice

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

CROSSWORD

Now Hiring Plant Operator Trainees Duties include assisting the Plant Operator, general cleaning and maintenance.

Full time.

Rotating shifts.

Competitive wage.

Must be comfortable working at heights.

Must have own transportation.

Email resumes to info@tripro.ca or in person at 12206 Gypsy Lane, Winchester.

Live On-Site Auction Sale Saturday September 18th at 10:00AM Sharp

1500 Edwards St North Prescott ON, K0E1T0 (First Place North of HWY 401) Tractor - Tandem Dump Trailer – 2 Trucks – Tools – Firewood – Household Effects & More Owner & Auctioneer not Responsible for Loss or Accident Washroom & Canteen on Site – Canteen provided

by Leeds & Grenville Food Bank w/ All Proceeds Going to Help the Leeds & Grenville Food Bank Props: Brian & Dorothy Seeley Terms: Cash or Good Cheque w/ Proper ID Auction Conducted By: Peter Ross Auction Services Ltd. Ingleside, ON 613-537-8862 For full listing and photos see: www.peterrossauction.ca

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

ACROSS 1. Central points 5. Young sheep 9. Queen of the Olympian gods 13. Press 14. Not together 16. Nights before 17. It holds up trousers 18. Columbus's birthplace 19. Heavy, durable furniture wood 20. Anagram of "Doles" 22. Seasides 24. Food thickener 26. Range 27. Spoke 30. A souped-up car 33. Ergo 35. Rescued 37. Manner 38. Hitches

Hayley Bedford Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702

Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca

41. Estimated time of arrival 42. Bearing great weight 45. Made a rushing sound 48. Display proudly 51. Musical master 52. Wept 54. Baroque composer 55. Utters with a spitting sound 59. Analyze syntactically 62. Cab 63. French for "Storehouse" 65. Decant 66. Module 67. Send, as payment 68. Pitcher 69. Flock 70. Be worthy of 71. Concludes

DOWN 1. Little lies 2. Chocolate cookie 3. Concomitant 4. Whole number 5. Delay 6. Mimics 7. Flowing tresses 8. A decorative pin 9. Ancient Greek mistress 10. Always 11. Absorb written material 12. Questions 15. Forbidden 21. Oppose 23. Chooses 25. Umpires 27. A D-Day beach 28. Stealer 29. Put clothing on 31. Ousted 32. Discourage 34. Uncooked 36. Rabbet 39. Some people chew this 40. Knife 43. Meaninglessness 44. Mongol hut 46. Pile 47. Fugitive from justice 49. Fertilizer ingredient 50. Move unsteadily 53. Literary genre 55. Counterfoil 56. Piece of glass 57. 64 in Roman numerals 58. Expectoration 60. Sought damages 61. Makes a mistake 64. French for "Summer"

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

SERVICES email classifieds@ndtimes.ca 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

email Easyclassifieds@ ngtimes.ca for pricing

Medium

Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

CLASSIFIEDS NOTICE

St. Mary’s Chesterville Cemetery Mass 3065 Dunbar Rd., Sept. 11 at 11:00am.

Bring lawn chairs; “Social Distancing” in effect

FOR SALE High end Furniture for sale. Various pieces for Living room and Dining Room. Please call Louise Ford to make an appointment 613 774 5924 September 8, 2021

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Employment Opportunity at a warehouse located in Chesterville. Alstor International is hiring a day shift warehouse laborer. Must be hard-working, reliable and have some work experiences in carpentry. General warehouse work includes packing steel sheets and steel parts on skids/ crates, receiving, shipping, and building wood skids and crates (physical labor involved). Starting salary of $20/hr, wage depends upon experience. Apply within – contact David at 613-448-2277 for details.

10

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

Baldwin’s Birds Birds and animals out of the front window

Where has the year gone, as we speed into September and another month of the persisting pandemic as well as the upcoming Federal Election? Fortunately, we have our garden birds and animals to draw our attention away from these somewhat stressful events and allow us to maintain some sort of normality in our lives. Yes, a real mental break is provided for us without making any real effort. We just have to

look outside our front window where our hanging feeders and bird bath provide us the joy of being able to watch and observe our birds and small animals going about their daily business. On our hanging window feeders, the Hummingbirds are competing at their feeder with the Wasps, and the Woodpeckers, Chickadees, and Nuthatches for the peanuts, whilst the Goldfinches are content with the Nijer seed. A small dis-

tance from the house our other "mixed bird seed" feeders are competed for by Bluejays, Cardinals, Chipping Sparrows and other birds, as well as the Red, Black and Grey Squirrels and our little buddies, the Chipmunks! We have a full cast of actors to keep us occupied, amused and amazed as they go about their daily chore of survival, be it competing for food, water or shelter, interspersed with the rearing and teaching of their

young.

With the recent hot days, our water bowl and birdbath have seen more activity than usual from both the birds and the animals which delight in drinking and also splashing about in them. The picture that I have included is one taken by my wife which illustrates how lucky we are to be able see and catch on camera some of our garden friends.

The female Cardinal is watching the antics of a Chipping Sparrow in the water and, behind them both, you can just spot one of our "Chippies" ( Chipmunk) busying himself in the foliage. As you can see, never a dull moment and always someone/thing to talk to whenever we come out of our front door! Even the chattering of the squirrels provides relief from the silence that would prevail if nothing was out there! Hopefully you are enjoying all the sights and sounds that our Nature Friends provide us with too.

Stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin

Community Living Dundas County came through in a big way for the Township of North Dundas people who need help everyone should be able to enjoy going to the pool.”

She notes that Community Living fundraises for local initiatives through its George Davidson Family Resource Fund which supplied the dollars for the two lifts.

“To have the support of Community Living is so vitally important,” says Mayor Tony Fraser. “This speaks to how we all need to work together so people can enjoy the things in their community. I’d like to extend a warm, hearty thank you from North Dundas. These lifts will be greatly appreciated by members of our community.”

Community Living Dundas County representatives join Township of North Dundas staff and council members to showcase the accessibility lift at the Winchester Pool on Sept. 2.

Photo supplied by North Dundas submitted by Jennifer Westendorp, Communications Officer, North Dundas The local organization donated $6,000 towards accessible chair lifts for the Winchester and Chesterville pools.

Meaghan Meerburg, Director of Recreation and Culture, says community partners and volunteers are the backbone of our rural September 8, 2021

township. “Partnerships are very important to us because we are a small municipality and there’s a very strong sense of community that we like to foster,” she notes.

Community Living pitched in $4,500 for the first lift back in 2019, and an additional $1,500 for a second lift, purchased this year, to ensure that both pools were accessible.

“We’d heard that it was something that was lacking in the community and it was something that we knew would be beneficial to the people that we support,” explains Debbie Boardman, Executive Director of Community Living Dundas County, “but so much more – children who require assistance getting into the pool, along with seniors and other

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, LOCALLY EMPLOYED FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM

North Dundas’ Financial Services Professionals Cynthia Batchelor Financial Advisor

Sarah Chisholm Financial Advisor

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

Q & A with Cyndy & Sarah – Registered Education Savings Plans: Part 1

By Cyndy Batchelor, BCom Financial Advisor, O’Farrell Financial Services As parents, we hope that one day our children will grow up to become contributing members of society. Often, this means contributing through employment. Today, many workplaces require education beyond high school. Just like our children, this education can come in many forms. Employers look for specific education such as a University Degree, a College Diploma, a Trade School Certification, or specific specialty courses. How can a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) help you plan for your child or children’s future? Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding RESPs. Q: What is the difference between a Group or Pooled RESP and Self Directed/Bank RESP? A: A Group or Pooled RESP is where all the earnings and grants of all the participants are grouped together set up by birth year – no matter what family. Additionally, investments choices, contribution and withdrawal rules are more restrictive. A Self-Directed or bank RESP is owned by the Subscriber (usually the parent). It can be an individual plan (for one child) or family plan (for multiple siblings), there are no investment restrictions, and contributions can be made at any time within the lifetime RESP maximums ($50,000) and withdrawals can be made for post-secondary education with limited restrictions.

As we only deal with Self Directed RESPs, all the following information will be based on a Self-Directed RESP. Q: How much is the RESP Grant?

A: The Basic Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) is 20% up to $500 for one year. You can also receive the grant for one previously missed year. Which means you may get a grant for up to $1000 per year – based on a $5000 contribution.

There is also an additional CESG of either 10% or 20% of the first $500 contribution based on your Net Family Income. Additionally, several provinces have other lifetime grants, such as the Canada Learning Bond (CLB), which may be added to your contributions.

Q: Should I open an Individual or Family Plan? And what is the difference?

A: We normally recommend a family plan. A family plan can have more than one beneficiary (related by blood to the contributor). If you are starting out with your first child, you can start a family plan with one child and simply add more children to the plan as they come along. When it is time to use the funds, if one child does not go to post-secondary school, your other children will have the opportunity to use the grants and income accumulated in the family plan.

Please stay tuned for Part 2 of our discussion about RESPs in next month’s North Dundas Times. In the meantime, if you have questions, connect with us! Be sure to follow us on Facebook @OFarrellFinancialServicesInc. North Dundas Times Submitted Article Publication date: October 6, 2021 Word Limit: 500

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

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

The Voice of Our Community

11

www.ndtimes.ca

The North Dundas Times

FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH:

While having a coffee and ruminating in our vehicle, on our way to yet another gig, the lead guitarist was lamenting the state of politics in the world, and in Canada more specifically.

I think his concern could be summed up as, 'If people are going to vote, they should be well informed. But, sadly, most people are not. They might think they are but they are not.'

We t o s s e d s o m e thoughts back and forth for a while, but came to no conclusion/solution.

Later, it brought to mind a quote by Issac Asimov to wit: 'Your ignorance is not the same as their experience. Genuinely smart people look for answers from people who are smarter than themselves. Only ignorant

people believe their guess is as good as anyone else's.'

Which brings us to one of our more pressing issues right now...apart from a totally unnecessary/unwanted election...the issue of vaccinations and the appearance of angry protests.

A Ms. M-E Robinson, in a letter to The Toronto Star said, 'The odds of dying from COVID-19 are so low for most people, that there is no justification for mandatory vaccinations in most workplaces.' She adds, 'There is no good reason why most unvaccinated individuals should have to chose between their job and the jab.' It is noteworthy that this person is writing from Edmonton.

Ah yes, Alberta! Where now, the righteously unjabbed are being offered $100 to get vaccinated.

Why? Perhaps the number

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

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

The Voice of Our Community

in general than we thought we were.

And as the guitarist and I asked as we headed off to enjoy playing some music, 'Whatever happened to civil discourse? Why are people not as smart and as well-informed as they once were. What is happening to our wonderful country?

What will our elections and society look like for the next generation?

'Something's happening here...' What it is ain't exactly clear.

There's a man with a gun over there, Telling me I got to beware.

Think it's time we stopped, Hey, What's that sound, Everybody look what's goin' down...'

(Stephen Stills, 1966) 55 years ago, they had problems too.

Peter Johnson

of people in hospitals and ICU's might give an insight. And while we are on the topic of strange things happening in our country...

“Across Canada you have the travelling Marathon of Rage that is following Justin Trudeau, shouting racial slurs at cops, and spouting bizarre imported conspiracy theories. Amongst the vaccinated you have an empathy deficit that has some posting on social media, 'let them die'.” (Toronto Star, Sept. 3) In Vancouver, 'a paramedic with more than 30 years experience says she is disheartened and on the verge of quitting after the protests against mandatory COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine passports that took place Wednesday outside hospitals across the country.' (CBC News, Sept. 4) In an election that was not necessary--that was not being called for by great numbers in our usually pragmatic nation, several things have come to light: we may not be as nice as we thought we were. We might not be as bright as we once thought we were.

And, we might be a lot more angry about things

Winchester Curling Club Registration Registration:

Tuesday Sep 14, 930am to 1030am, 630pm to 730pm Thursday Sep 16, 930am to 1030am, 630pm to 730pm AGM Thursday Sep 16, 730pm

Little Rocks: Tuesdays 530-700pm U16/U21: Mondays 500-630pm Daytime: Mondays & Thursdays Mixed: Wednesday & Friday Evenings Fixed: Thursday Evenings Ladies: Monday Evenings

Open House & Free Clinic for New Curlers on Saturday October 9th

Learn to Curl Program

will run in the fall on Tuesdays 730-930pm Are you planning to build your dream home? Need more space?

Improving your business? Why not live or work where you want!

W E H AV E L O T S F O R Y O U !

WDMH introduces mandatory vaccination policy submitted by Jane Adams Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) will now require all employees, physicians, volunteers, learners, contractors, and new hires to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is an important step to ensure the safety of everyone in the hospital environment.

“As a hospital, we have a duty and commitment to protect the health and safety of our staff, patients, and visitors,” notes CEO Cholly Boland. “Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to do this.”

Currently, 100% percent of medical staff, 97% of WDMH employees, and 100% of WDMH volunteers have been fully vaccinated with two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

WDMH is taking a phased approach for the remainder

of our people who are not vaccinated. First doses will be required by September 7, 2021, as outlined in the government directive, and second doses will be required

by October 15, 2021.

As of September 7, anyone who is unvaccinated (or has not reported their vaccination status) will be placed on an unpaid Leave of Absence.

WDMH is currently finalizing its vaccination policy (including medical exemptions) in line with the provincial directive.

“We want to thank the WDMH team for its continued dedication,” added Cholly Boland. “Everyone has worked tirelessly to protect our communities throughout the pandemic. We also want to thank our local communities for their ongoing support.”

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

Follow us on Social Media

5391 Brinston

Lt 16 Fairgrounds

IROQUOIS - 0.59 acres with drilled well and storage building MLS #1252355 $208,000

NEWINGTON - 0.25 acre with municipal water at lot line MLS #1250131 $39,000

Pt Lt 8 Cameron

PL44C7 Belmeade

INKERMAN - 0.59 acres of residential land MLS #1244715 $109,900

VERNON -65 aces of Farmland (50 tiled drained) MLS# 1256151 $699,000

Pt Lt 26 Hart Rd

PtLT5PT3 Flagg

NEWINGTON - 24.38 acres of treed land MLS #1247744 $219,000

IROQUOIS - 0.88 acres of Rural Land MLS #1247560 $63,000

Our Sales Representatives

Call today for a FREE consultation

Emily Blanchard Kim Monkhouse Nathan Lang

September 8, 2021

12

613-774-2323

WWW.OLDFORD.CA

www.ndtimes.ca