ND Times Issue 5 2024 March 7

International Woman’s Day 2024

Every week, the Times is produced by a staff where women outnumber men by 2 to 1. Women have taken a leading role in every sphere of life, private and public. Much has been changed, and much remains to be achieved, as the articles in this special issue attest. On International Women’s Week, 2022, we can look back a century and see how much of the progress had to be fought for on every level, especially under the law.

Although Agnes

McPhail was the first woman elected to the House of Commons in 1921, women were still denied the right to become a Senator, as the British North America Act of 1867 required that they be “persons”, which successive Canadian Governments had decided was a term that did not apply to women.

In August 1927, Emily Murphy invited four prominent women activists Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Henrietta Muir Edwards, to join her in sending a petition to the Canadian government regarding the interpretation of the

word “persons”. These women are known today as The Famous Five.

On 27 August 1927, the Famous Five signed the letter, which was sent to the governor general.

In 1928, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that women were not “persons” according to the British North America Act (now called the Constitution Act, 1867). Therefore, they were ineligible for appointment to the Senate. However, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council reversed the Court’s decision on 18 Octo-

ber, 1929. The Persons Case enabled women to work for change in both the House of Commons and the Senate. It also meant that women could no longer be denied rights based on a narrow interpretation of the law. They were now, legally and forever, “persons”.

It is in attitudes and behaviour that much remains to be done to bring true equality of opportunity. This is now a role where women and men can play a part to #BreaktheBias.

Nanda Wubs Huizenga Propriotor

Brick - Block - Stone - Chimneys - Parging - Repairs Foundation Repair & Waterproofing

Kevin DeJong

Winchester, ON

613-316-0800 Dejongmasonary@hotmail.com

The WDMH Foundation 50/50 Raffle is back

You could win on April 1st! And that’s no joke!

So far, three local winners have taken home proceeds from the WDMH Foundation’s new 50/50 Cash Raffle. One donor noted that she thought it was a great way to give back to the Hospital while also giving herself a chance to win. And now it’s your turn!

Tickets for the March raffle go on sale on March 1st. The draw takes place on April 1st. Tickets are only available online at www.wdmhfoundationraffles.ca. You can purchase 3 tickets for $5, 10 tickets for $10, 60 tickets for $30 or 100 tickets for $50.

The raffle is in support of the General Equipment Fund for Winchester District Memorial Hospital. Many people are surprised to learn that the provincial government does not fund the purchase of medical equipment for Ontario hospitals. That’s where our wonderful donors come in –helping to ensure that WDMH has the right tools to provide excellent health care for our patients.

“This is the last raffle in this series and we invite everyone to get your tickets during March,” says Justine Plummer, Manager of Direct Mail and Events. “The bigger the jackpot, the bigger the impact. It’s so fun to celebrate with each winner!”

Good luck everyone and thanks for your support!

Dozens of smiles!

29 days. 29 social media posts. $29 … and lots of smiles!

Thank you to everyone who joined in the fun during ‘29 Smiles in 29 Days for $29 for Dundas Manor!’

It was a great way to share wonderful pictures of amazing Dundas Manor

them smile. Donors were encouraged to donate $29 – one dollar for each smile. And they did – raising $460 for the campaign to date. And we hope that there are more people out there smiling and still planning to give at https://bit.ly/29Smiles!

“Every day at Dundas Manor, our goal is to bring happiness and joy to the residents,” explains Susan Poirier. “Their smiles make every day special!”

residents and raise funds for the new Dundas Manor at the same time.

Over 29 days, the Dundas Manor Facebook page was filled with stories about the residents and what makes

The

In addition to their donations, donors shared their own thoughts on the Facebook page, saying hi to their loved ones and commenting on the beautiful smiles. One donor, whose grandmother was featured, gave $3 not-

ing that she would give “anything for the people helping to take care of my amazing grandmother”. She also shared the story on her own Facebook page noting her grandmother has always lived her life with a smile.

“We are so grateful to everyone who joined in and we hope we brought a smile to many faces,” sums up WDMH Foundation Managing Director Kristen Casselman.

For more details about the Dundas Manor campaign, please visit www. dundasmanordream.ca or contact the WDMH Foundation team at 613-774-2422 ext. 6162 or 6169. Thank you for your support!

Great Irish Sing-Along comes to Winchester

The songs of Ireland will be resounding in Winchester this St Patrick's Day, March 17th. Acclaimed acoustic trio, Tripoly, has teamed up with a fabulous line-up of actors/ musicians and together with the Grenville Trouba-

dours, they will entertain you at St Clare's Anglican Church in Winchester at 3pm.

Many of the songs are well-known favourites and the Troubadours actively encourage you to sing along and celebrate with

them!

Tickets for this event are $20 and are available in Winchester at Simply Baked Catering, the Planted Arrow Flowers & Gifts, online at eventbrite.ca and by reservation at donations@stclaresanglican. ca. Tickets are also available in Kemptville at the Crusty Bakers and Brewed Awakenings.

St Clare's is wheelchair accessible and is located at 2530 Falcone Lane, just off Highway 43.

Tripoly and the Troubadours are looking forward to their first performance in the town and invite one and all to this fun afternoon of song.

Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours dressed for St Patrick's. Photo Credit: Daniel Spring

Eclipse Chaser Guide

Jenny Bloom-Barkley Junior Astronomer

NDDHS

Anyone interested in astronomy will be excited to hear that a total solar eclipse is coming to the area on April 8th. In ancient times, people believed that a solar eclipse was caused by a dragon swallowing the sun. In the modern era, we now know it’s caused by the moon passing between the sun and the earth casting the moon’s shadow along a path on the earth.

The path of totality of April’s eclipse will follow along the St Lawrence River. It’s important to know that people inside the path of totality (Kingston to Cornwall) will see both a partial

solar eclipse and a total solar eclipse, but the people outside of the path (Winchester and Chesterville) will only experience the partial eclipse. The difference between a partial and a total eclipse is bigger than the difference between night and day. Many people consider a total solar eclipse to be a life changing experience. I strongly encourage you to take the time to go to the St Lawrence River to experience the total solar eclipse.

What can you expect during a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse is a significant event. The sky will go dark and the temperature will drop. The stars and planets and the sun’s corona will be visible around the moon. Animals may act strange.

Sometimes nocturnal animals like owls and foxes will come out in the confusion. Birds will go silent and roost in trees. Strange shadow bands may dance around on the ground. The shadow of the moon will be 177 kms wide and will approach you at 3,911 km/h. You don’t want to miss it!

The partial eclipse will begin at 2:11 pm and will end at 4:35 pm. The total eclipse will begin at 3:24 pm and end at 3:26 pm.

To safely view the partial eclipse, you will need eclipse glasses that are ISO certified, or shade 14 welder’s goggles. Once the total eclipse begins, you may safely take off your eclipse glasses and view with the naked eye or binoculars. The corona of the sun will be very majestic when viewed through binoculars. The total eclipse will last for 2 minutes and 11 seconds (based on the Morrisburg area - the time varies by location) and then you can put your eclipse glasses back on to view the partial eclipse again as the moon moves away from the sun. It’s very important that you don’t observe the partial eclipse with the naked eye or binoculars or use your binoculars with eclipse glasses. This may result in severe eye damage.

Expect there to be many people attending and for traffic to be heavy. I hope you all safely enjoy the nearly once in a lifetime phenomenon, and I wish you clear skies!

Date Night for firefighters

Safety during the April 8 solar eclipse

A solar eclipse is set to happen on April 8, with some areas of SD&G in the path of totality. This makes for great viewing, but there is cause for a public health concern. Although the Moon will be covering most of the Sun, it's still dangerous to look directly at the Sun from approximately 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm when the solar eclipse is happening. Viewing the sun with your naked eye during the eclipse can burn your retina, damaging the images your brain can view. This phenomenon, known as “eclipse blindness,” can cause temporary or permanent vision impairment, and in worst-case scenarios can lead to legal blindness, which entails significant loss of vision.

“There are no pain sensors in your retinas to indicate that your eyes are being damaged by looking at the sun”, says Dr. Linna Li, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. “Symptoms can take 12 to 48 hours to appear and can include retinal burns, permanent or temporary visual loss, and blurred vision. Once symptoms begin, it's usually too late to reverse any damage. This is why prevention and

The North Dundas Fire Department Station 2 and Station 2 Auxiliary hosted a Date Night last week at the Mountain Township Agricultural Hall. It was night of Dinner, Comedy, Live Music and Dance. Catered by Winchester Catering and Event Centre, with comedy by Todd Van Allen and live music by Tyler Comeau and the Highway 10 Boys, the event raised funds for the Auxiliary to provide sup-

protection for your eyes is very important.”

It is very dangerous to look directly at the sun at any time, but during an eclipse the temptation to have a quick glance can be very strong. Of course staying inside and avoiding the temptation is the best way to prevent harm to your eyes, but there are protection methods available.

To avoid damaging your retinas when viewing the solar eclipse:

- Do not view the eclipse at all or use a proper method of blocking the sun's dangerous rays while viewing.

- Use a filter that blocks all dangerous light - ISOcertified eclipse glasses from a reputable vendor that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. The manufacturer's name and address must be printed on the product.

- Do not use any viewer if it has scratched or wrinkled lenses.

- Be careful of anyone trying to offer viewing devices that are not certified.

Do not use:

- ordinary sunglasses or multiple pairs of sunglasses,

- neutral density or polarizing filters, such as those made for camera lenses,

- smoked glass,

- photographic or Xray film (unexposed, ex-

posed or developed), or

- binoculars or telescope – even with certified glasses.

There are some promoted household items and homemade filters but this is not the time to experiment with internet fads. Some communities are having mass gathering events to view the eclipse. There may be glasses available at these events or you can go online and order glasses ahead of time.

There will also be a virtual viewing through the Canadian Space Agency’s website for those who do not want to chance being outside. The Health Unit has links on its website to activities for kids such as making a pinhole camera (also called a pinhole projector) that can be used to safely observe an eclipse. Light is allowed through a small punched hole, which then projects the incoming light onto the opposite end of the box.

For more information about eye safety and proper viewing devices during the eclipse, visit Total Solar Eclipse 2024 - Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. If you require medical assistance because of a risk of exposure, call Ontario811 or visit a virtual care clinic.

port for the firefighters as they tackle blazes and keep the community safe.

A very worthy cause and a good turnout made the evening a real success.

Grade 8 student at

Chris Lee, Rhyce Sherrer, Cam Sherrer and Patrick Jampen

A hint not taken

by Brandon Mayer

For those early birds who read the Times on the date of publication, you’ll note that tomorrow, March 8, is a very special occasion – International Women’s Day. Every year, the Times publishes an IWD issue to celebrate the women in our community. It’s worth it to reflect on why such a thing is even necessary. There will always be those who cry out with such qualms as “But there isn’t an International Men’s Day!” Yet there is an obvious and straightforward reason for this: every day was “Men’s Day” in our society for hundreds of years before equality became reality. Some would argue that equality still isn’t reality, but we have certainly come a long way.

Men used to own women – literally. It wasn’t until 1884 that Ontario became the first Canadian province to grant married women independence from their husbands, and the ability to own their own property along with other elements of legal independence. Other provinces unfortunately took far longer to make the same progress. Canada’s first female doctor, Dr. Emily Stowe, did not begin to practice until 1867 and wasn’t licensed until 1880. Canada’s first female lawyer, Clara Brett Martin, was not admitted to the bar until 1897. In 1903, Emma Baker became the first woman to receive a Ph.D. from a Canadian University.

Perhaps the most famous marker of malefemale inequality is that

women were not allowed to vote in elections until 1918 (for those who were Caucasian and over the age of 21), and 1960 (for all women). This means that, shockingly, there will be many people reading this editorial in 2024 who were alive during a time when women did not have equal voting rights in Canada. Anyone still have questions about why International Women’s Day is needed? Some celebration of women – and everything that they have always been capable of –is necessary to balance the scales.

We have a local woman sitting on North Dundas Council currently. We should consider ourselves lucky, because the previous three councils sitting for 12 years between 2010 and 2022 did not have any elected women, though Theresa Bergeron was appointed to fill a vacancy left by resigned Councillor Tyler Hoy in late 2021.

In North Dundas’ entire history, there have been thre women on Council. Men? There have been 17 serving North Dundas since amalgamation in 1998. Estella Rose is a name that many will know. She sat on the Township’s original Council, and was appointed as SD&G’s first female Warden in 2007. As a politician, she was known as a strong voice for the agricultural community. Just last year, she was inducted into the Dundas Ag Hall of Fame.

Gail Parker is the other woman who previously served North Dundas in politics. This is something I learned through research. I have met Gail several times, through her work with the

Chesterville and District Historical Society, and I never knew that she had a background as one of only 20 people to serve North Dundas in local government. She never mentioned it, likely because those with a passion to serve their communities are too focused on their current initiatives to brag about their former ones. I have always loved working with Gail, Chesterville is lucky to have her.

Where does Theresa Bergeron fit into North Dundas history? She is the third woman to serve on local government in the 26 year history of our Township. And in my opinion, she is doing a darn good job of it. I have noticed that she is a very original thinker, and she takes time to do her homework on motions before Council, prior to voting on them. She is also confident about raising her concerns in open session, if she has any. My own observation is that she wasn’t treated

with very high regard by her fellow Council members when first appointed, though that is a story for another day. Most recently, at the February 29 Council meeting, Deputy Mayor Bergeron took on an issue that needed addressing. She talked openly about the public’s concerns regarding the relatively high municipal tax increase proposed in the 2024 budget.

Let me first say that I understand why North Dundas residents are angry. As a kid, I remember my parents complaining if our weekly grocery shopping trip cost more than $150. Less than that was cause for celebration! Much more than that was cause for a case of the grumpies. That $150 budget had us eating well. We always had plenty of food.

Inflation is not a new concept. We all know that costs go up. It’s like clockwork, so much so that there are simple online tools called “infla-

tion calculators” that can calculate what something would cost in the modern day, compared to some year in the past.

When I put $150 into an inflation calculator from 20 years ago, it told me that it translates into an equivalent of $229.86 in today’s money. Here’s the problem: this is pure and utter poppycock. My wife and I budget $350 per week to feed our family of four. We cook basic meals and pack routine school lunches. We do not waste food. Yet we are paying 233% more to feed a family of 4 than what my parents paid 20 years ago to feed a family of 5. The inflation calculator says it should only cost 153% more. Some people simply can’t afford the property tax increase being proposed by Council, especially when it feels like our Township is constantly treading water, financially, giving no hope of sunnier days ahead.

Deputy Mayor

Bergeron was the first Council member who was brave enough to tackle the issue head on, explaining the unique aspects of North Dundas (for example, having two pools and two arenas for a fairly small population) that cause financial strain. While I’m still not happy about the increase, at least I finally feel that my fellow residents and I are being somewhat heard.

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, I must say a heartfelt “thanks” to the three women who have served here in local government. They all have much to be proud of, a true hint of what women can do when given the opportunity. Hopefully it won’t continue to be a “hint not taken” in local governments to come.

Wardens urge investment in infrastructure

by the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus

While the Government of Canada announces regular new and welcome Housing Action Plan investments, the member municipalities of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) are calling on the federal government to make meaningful and collaborative investment to support the infrastructure needed to service new and existing projects and to provide for our growing and aging population.

Municipalities own and maintain most of the infrastructure that Canadians rely on every day. Still, they have been underfunded for decades, collecting only eight to 12 cents of every tax dollar. Existing roads, bridges, sewers, drinking water treatment systems, community centres, and other critical public infra-

structure continue to need regular repair and replacement across the country, especially in rural areas. There are simply not enough financial resources for municipalities to keep existing infrastructure serviceable or to provide new infrastructure for new projects to support our communities.

“We tend to take infrastructure for granted because most of us only think about it when it’s not working,” says FCM President, Scott Pearce. “We expect our first responders to show up when there’s a crisis, our local recreation centre to have space for kids to play, and our buses to get us to work

on time but this critical infrastructure and these services cost money. Municipalities can’t be expected to keep raising property taxes to pay for it.”

The FCM and EOWC call on the federal government, in advance of its 2024 budget decisions, to further invest in the infrastructure required to develop and sustain complete communities for Canadian families. All municipalities need to be able to rely on programs such as the Canada Community Building Fund (CCBF) that support growth and rehabilitation of existing assets.

The FCM and EOWC

HELP WANTED

further advocate that all orders of government must work together at a single table to develop and agree upon a realistic municipal growth framework for next generation infrastructure.

“Towns, cities, and villages have been funded the same way since Confederation,” says EOWC Chair Peter Emon. “It was a sensible system when horse-andbuggy was the primary mode of transportation and when populations were measured in the thousands, not millions. Things have changed and it’s time we had a modernized municipal growth framework in place to reflect that.”

Council update – more budget talks

by Brandon Mayer

The regularly scheduled meeting of North Dundas Council on February 29 opened with a lighthearted moment, as Mayor Tony Fraser honoured the terms of a wager made with Mayor Jason Broad of South Dundas. Mayor Fraser wore a Morrisburg Lions jersey for the duration of the Council meeting, since the Lions beat the North Dundas Rockets in their most recent game.

After a short closed session regarding the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the Township, Council returned and jumped into regular business. A motion to improve the job benefits afforded to Township employees was put forward first.

These benefits included items such as long term disability coverage, and drug, health, and extended health coverage. Interim CAO Benjamin de Haan explained that the recommended increases in benefits would cost taxpayers

$21,750 in 2024. He also argued that the Township needs to be careful not to “fall behind” on expected employee benefits in this day and age. There was much discussion between members of Council on the matter. The motion passed.

More Township compensation policies were up for discussion next, including the elimination of the “student minimum wage”, and an introduction of a top up clause in the parental leave policy. Council members agreed that the Township needs to take steps to ensure the retention of skilled, knowledgeable staff.

Another important item of business relates to the construction of the new Dundas Manor building, and the resulting increase in truck traffic in the residential streets of Winchester. Calvin Pol, Director of Development Services, explained that some concerns were brought forward by parents and Winchester Public School administration about the safety of students who are walking to and from school during the construc-

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, Just wanted to compliment you on the most recent edition of The North Dundas Times. There was a really interesting and thought provoking selection of diverse articles contained therein.

I appreciated reading the Council Notes which are so important to keep abreast of, the Heritage Feature, the general news articles, the weather feature, and the follow-up articles. I will comment that I find Mr. Shanahan’s articles too heavy on his own religion and I feel like I am reading a flyer someone slipped in my door, rather than a news publication but, of course, I always have the option of skipping them, which I do. Otherwise, this latest edition featuring Heritage Week and more was really top notch.

Thanks for putting out a great publication!

Jan Atkey,Winchester

tion. A motion was therefore put forward to prohibit truck traffic on Clarence Street between the construction site and St. Lawrence Street during the hours of 9:00 to 9:30 am, and 3:30 to 4:00 pm. There is also a provision to restrict parking in the area while the construction is ongoing. Council members were very positive about the recommendation, saying that it shows community spirit in the sense that many key players were willing to work together to find a solution. The motion passed.

Routine matters followed, including motions related to drainage assessment, and the selection of contractors to conduct drainage work. Council then heard a report from Meaghan Meerburg regarding a recommended minimum insurance requirement of $5 million for facility rentals in the Township. The motion put before Council also had a provision to give local nonprofit groups that benefit the community up to 6 free facility rentals per year. It passed.

Next came a recommendation that Council allow an application for a grant which would fund a majority of a water main looping project that would add water redundancy to the west end of Winchester – the purpose of this is to ensure continuation of water service in the event of an issue in the west end of Winchester, such as a water

Dear Editor, Trash on our roadways has long been a huge pet peeve of mine. Thanks for publishing articles on the subject. I find it laughable that the counties want to attract cyclists to our area with such a distraction and disgrace prevalent in all of our ditches, street corners, fields and forests. It's not a welcome sight for tourists or residents!

I only just recently learned that the state of Texas had similar issues decades ago. Back in the 80's, their Department of Transportation initiated the "Don't Mess with Texas" campaign. Huge success that continues to this day.

I'm hopeful there are some creative SDG'ers who can conjure up a local version! Maybe a contest?

Signed, Anonymous (I really don't need any trash backlash)

main break.

Finally, after over 90 minutes, the perhaps most anticipated part of the meeting came: the second round of draft budget discussions. The Township’s Treasurer, John Gareau, gave a recap of budget highlights, and added an important point of clarification likely meant to calm concerns about the proposed 14.7% municipal tax increase this year. John pointed out that the 14.7% does not represent an increase to each household’s entire tax bill, but rather only the Township portion which is 39% of the total tax bill. Of the amount paid by each household, 49% goes to the United Counties of SD&G, and 12% goes to the education levy. The latter two contributions have increases of their own, but well below the Township’s proposed 14.7% increase. Residents who had been calculating their new bill by adding 14.7% to their entire annual tax bill therefore calculated a number that is higher than the actual increase, but the proposed municipal increase is still high compared to surrounding municipalities.

The updated draft budget shows a drop in almost $2 million in the Township’s reserve fund between 2022 and the end of 2024, though John cautioned that this is an estimate only. John explained some of the projects for which the Township has

Tribute to a Truck Driver

by Brent Keating

taken a financial hit recently, including road work, the Boyne Road Landfill expansion, the purchase of a new road grader to help maintain some of the unpaved roads in the Township, and a recreational ice resurfacer.

Some minor changes to the previous draft budget version were explained for Council to consider. One change that will be of note to residents is a proposal for increased tipping fees at the Boyne Road Landfill, resulting in a potential revenue increase of $10,000 for the year.

Meaghan Meerburg, Director of Recreation and Culture, gave a brief comment about the recreation portion of the budget. The Township is anticipating a “recreation master plan” to accompany the new budget, with the aim of addressing some issues including a health unit directive for upgrades to the Township’s two public pools. “It’s hard because your department took the most cuts,” said Councillor John Lennox to Director Meerburg. “Yet your department is the one which everyone complains about, where we need more services, we need more this and that. Well, do you want a 20% tax increase, or do you want something sustainable?”

Likely feeling public pressure, Deputy Mayor Theresa Bergeron took an

I thought up a poem about you coffee drinking, gear jamming, double clutching, highway hauling concrete cowboys and your 18 wheelers, using all the techno terms like "Jo dogs, twin screws, tandem axles, 13 speed hydra-drive, fifth wheels and drag axles" but decided to dump it all for a more personalized approach. After all... you are my father....so this is for you Dad.

He rose up in the morning, or sometimes late at night and drove off in the distance, with children tucked in tight. No matter what the season, winter, summer, spring or fall; dedicated to his job he'd leave when'er the call. With nights away from loved ones, he would have to be content

With lonely hours out on the road and truckstops as his friends.

Three million miles he's driven, perhaps three million more.

Thirty five years of sweat and toil to get the goods to store. Through cities, towns and unknown places he's hauled all kinds of goods.

Through fog and sleet and winter storms, so they'd get there when they should.

How many people have you fed? How many have you clothed?

If not for you, no shoes for kids, or teddy bears to hold. But life has not ended, just simply turned the page. There's still a lot of life to live and all the world's a stage.

opportunity to address the public regarding the pressures that the Township is facing, budget wise. She explained that tax increases in previous years have often been “below the cost of living”, and that a large increase in expenses has been felt lately due to “a huge amount of growth in a short time”. She gave an example of some residents requesting that a 3.5 km stretch of their road be paved, and mentioned that the cost of paving this road alone would add over 9% to the municipal budget. She also commented that North Dundas is unique in the sense that it has two pools and two arenas (as well as other recreational amenities such as 8 community halls) to maintain, using taxpayer money from just 4,600 homes. “If we don’t increase, you won’t be getting these services,” Mayor Bergeron added. “I’m not here to be popular, I’m just here to do my job.” She further pointed out that municipal councillors resigning their role in Canada is becoming more common due to the stress, with a helpline even set up to assist struggling Council members.

Following a late-inthe-meeting break, Council discussed less heavy matters, including updates from various committees. The meeting adjourned after just under 3 hours.

We offer an extensive range of top-quality fishing gear designed to make your next fishing trip one to remember.

Shop online www.oomensfishingtackle.ca or in our store at 201 Water St. W, Prescott, ON 613-925-5455

I moved to Kemptville in 1997, best decision ever! I am foremost a daughter, a mother, and a spouse. I transitioned from a career in food service to law in 2000, became a lawyer in 2010 and opened my own office in 2014. Within my practice I employ five fantastic women who help me provide excellent legal services to this community.

In my spare time I have been an Algonquin College Instructor, past member

A local artist beloved by all

by Ann Brady, North Dundas

Arts Council ‘Art in the Branches’ has a special treat for visitors to the Winchester branch of SDG Library this March.

Carrie A. Keller has many titles, ‘though she modestly describes herself as ‘just an oil painter’. Truth to tell, this Winchester treasure is an internationally known Artist, teacher, illustrator, author, muralist and painter in all the major mediums. If you don’t think you know her work, look no farther than

the impressive Winchester District Memorial Hospital mural gracing Sweet Corner Park in downtown Winchester!

Carrie makes her home with her husband in Winchester, but her travels have taken her to California, Windsor, Banff and most of the provinces and the Northwest Territories. She has also lived in Germany, France and Florida which explains the richness and variety of her paintings being informed by a well-trained

Bread and Roses

eye for beauty.

In her spare time – an understatement if there ever was one! – Carrie serves as Chair of the Art on the Waterfront Festival and is an active member of the North Grenville Art League. She likes to keep her hand in the mural world, partnering with Shane Signs, which reproduces and installs her murals in large format. This talented, energetic woman has also authored several children’s books and is currently working on an adult novel.

Visit Carrie A. Keller’s art on Facebook, at Paintingstoorder.com, and on Instagram at Carrie Keller 39. Carrie’s exhibit runs through the end of March at the Winchester branch, located at 547 St. Lawrence Street in Winchester. ‘Art in the Branches’ is a free, gently curated program offered to all North Dundas visual Artists by the North Dundas Arts Council in partnership with SDG Library. Contact Ann at northdundasartscouncil@yahoo.ca or on our Facebook page for details.

As we go marching, marching, in the beauty of the day, A million darkened kitchens, a thousand mill lofts gray, Are touched with all the radiance that a sudden sun discloses, For the people hear us singing: Bread and Roses! Bread and Roses!

As we go marching, marching, we battle too for men, For they are women's children, and we mother them again. Our lives shall not be sweated from birth until life closes; Hearts starve as well as bodies; give us bread, but give us roses.

As we go marching, marching, unnumbered women dead Go crying through our singing their ancient call for bread. Small art and love and beauty their drudging spirits knew. Yes, it is bread we fight for, but we fight for roses too.

As we go marching, marching, we bring the greater days, The rising of the women means the rising of the race. No more the drudge and idler, ten that toil where one reposes, But a sharing of life's glories: Bread and roses, bread and roses.

Our lives shall not be sweated from birth until life closes;

Hearts starve as well as bodies; bread and roses, bread and roses.

This poem was written by James Oppenheim in 1911. Music was written by Mimi Farina in the 1960's. In 1912, Rose Schneiderman used the phrase in her talks on women and unions: The woman must have bread, but she must have roses too

Nanda Wubs Huizenga Marketing Consultant nanda@ndtimes.ca 613.223.9785 ww.ndtimes.ca

International Woman’s Day 2024

Too good to play

by A Sports Mom

Team dynamics are a curious thing in sports. There are instances when a team doesn't quite click, or they can’t win a game, no matter how hard they try. Then there are times when the team, coaches, and individual skills come together to create an extraordinary season. This is the scenario unfolding for a local girls’ hockey team this year. They've achieved an impressive feat by not losing a single regular season game. What should be an exciting year for the team, and a great confidence builder for the girls, has been marred with an inquiry. A competitor in their league sent a request for recategorization against the house league team. This request was asking the league’s governing body to remove the team from house league play and recategorize it as a competitive team. How can they recategorize a house league team? It's a house league.

The team found itself in the position of having to present its case before the league's governing body. The decision was made not to tell the kids playing on the team. Why should they be made to feel that they were doing something wrong? What would the repercussions of this be? Would the girls still be allowed to play? All questions they did not want the kids worrying about. It's supposed to be fun, right?

The parents and coaches all brainstormed the reasons why they thought this request for recategorization was uncalled for. The coaching staff are new to the league. All the girls, but one, are minors. Thirty percent of the players have never played hockey before. Some of the girls had tried out for the competitive team and didn’t make it. There are other house league teams in that age group that were evenly sorted based on skills, etc.. All valid reasons, but the main reason is, it's a house league team. You cannot force a kid (or family) who doesn’t want to play

competitive sports to play competitive sports.

House league is meant to accommodate players of all skill levels. You are going to have kids who are just learning, and kids that have been playing for years. Nowhere does it state that if your child is of a certain ability, that they need to play competitive hockey. If Jayna Hefford wanted to play house league, she would have been allowed to. Studies have shown that rates of participation for girls in sports start declining as young as age 9. By their late teens, one in three girls who used to play sports have quit, compared to just one in 10 boys. There are many different reasons why this happens, with self esteem, cost, and not enough programs for their skill or ability being the main reasons. This is why having house league teams open to all is so crucial.

Competitive sports can be a huge time and financial commitment that may not be doable for some families. There are kids who do not want to play at that level. They may feel an added pressure that they don’t feel with a house league team. Maybe the child’s friends all play house league and that’s who they want to play with. Perhaps the child has health issues that prevent them from the commitment of playing competitive sports. There could be family issues that do not allow for the child to attend all practices and games.

You cannot assume that all kids have the desire, or means, to play competitive sports. Really, just a long winded way of saying what has already been said. You cannot force a kid or family who doesn’t want to play competitively to play competitively.

Being a parent of two girls in sports, my only expectations for them are simple: 1) give it their best shot and persist when the going gets tough; 2) make friends, be the positive and inclusive teammate who uplifts and supports oth-

ers; and most importantly 3) enjoy the experience, have fun! I never want sports to become an obligation for them. It should always be a choice driven by genuine interest and enthusiasm. There are so many benefits, besides the obvious physical health benefits, to participating in sports. Girls who participate in sports feel more confident, passionate, collaborative, and happy. All things we want for our daughters. Sports help cultivate the qualities that make people good leaders; 94% of executive level women report participating in sports, with 74% of them crediting their sports participation for their current success.

Witnessing both my girls discover their passion is truly remarkable, which is why hearing about this request really irritated me. Why should something a child loves be in jeopardy because they are doing well? Can you be too good to play?

The report was sent in and then the waiting began. What would happen to the season? Would they be able to play? If the request was approved, it would mean that they would not be eligible for playoffs, or for any of the tournaments that they had registered (and paid) for. They would still be able to play their regular season games, but they wouldn’t count for anything. After an agonizing wait, and much emailing back and forth, the results were finally in. The team was allowed to remain as a house league. It's a shame when bureaucracy gets in the way of a good thing. The girls are having an amazing season, they will be entering into playoffs as the top team in Eastern Ontario, without a single regular season loss. It's disheartening to think it almost got derailed by something like this. It's crucial to have spaces for everyone, regardless of their skill level or commitment level. Sports should be about enjoyment and growth, not unnecessary hurdles and stress.

Spring is in the air and the spring market is opening up, Lets get you moving.Being a long time resident in North Dundas, I have the expertise to help you settle into this Beautiful area.

Local cartoonist joins the Times team

Is there anything that we can’t have made right here in North Dundas? Original cartoons have now joined the list of things that are

made “North Dundas local”, thanks to Miranda Em, a high school co-op student from North Dundas District High School who will be completing a placement with us until June!

Miranda recently moved to the area, and her talent as a cartoonist is unmistakable. She looks forward to giving local residents a first experience of her work in the next issue of the Times

on March 21.

Miranda is interested in a career in alternative comics. She first became interested in cartooning about 2 years ago, and it has really taken off. “I am happy to be joining the Times team,” said Miranda. “It will be a great experience contributing to the community!”

Three tax filing changes farmers should know about

compliance, which ranged from $5,000 to $10,000, were a major concern. Following advocacy from the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and other organizations, the federal government announced the following proposed changes in its 2023 Fall Economic statement:

- Exemption for farmers: farm businesses will be exempt from filing the UHT for the 2023 tax year and beyond as long as more than 90% of ownership is by Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

attention to for 2024.

Underused Housing Tax:

In 2022, the federal Underused Housing Tax (UHT) Act became law, putting a tax on the value of vacant and underused housing owned either directly or indirectly by people who aren’t Canadian citizens or permanent residents. For the farming sector, the UHT’s onerous annual filing requirements and steep penalties for non-

- Lower penalties: minimum penalties for failing to file a UHT return were lowered to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for corporations for each UHT return not submitted. The proposed changes, which would apply for the 2023 tax year and beyond, still need to be introduced and passed through legislation in order to come into effect. Key takeaway for farmers: UHT still applies for the 2022 tax year, so any farmers who were required to file a UHT return

for 2022 but have not yet done so, should file by April 30, 2024 to avoid penalties and interest.

T3 reporting rules for federal trusts:

The federal government has introduced new reporting requirements for trusts, including those used in farm business and estate planning, that will take effect for taxation years ending after December 30, 2023. Annual filing: Although there are some exemptions, most Canadian trusts must now file an annual T3 return even if the trust didn’t dispose of capital property or owe any tax during the year.

More information: those filing a T3 will need to provide much more information than in the past, including names, addresses, birth dates, jurisdiction of residence and taxpayer identification numbers of anyone involved with a trust (trustees, beneficiaries, settlers or influencers of trust decisions). Non-compliance penalties: the filing deadline

for 2023 T3 returns is April 2, 2024. Penalties start at $25 per day for each day the return is late, with a minimum penalty of $100 and a maximum of $2,500. In more severe cases, penalties could be $2,500 or 5% of the highest fair market value of the assets held by the trust during the year.

Key takeaway for farmers: Farm businesses who use family trusts to hold private company shares, such as a farm corporation, as well as trusts used for estate planning or holding personal-use assets must now file an annual T3 return. Not sure if these rules apply to your farm? Consult a professional who is knowledgeable in farm trusts; filing unnecessarily can complicate estate planning and impose unintended legal and financial challenges.

Electronic filing for HST returns becomes mandatory:

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has implemented new electronic filing requirements for GST/HST returns starting in 2024 for

anyone with a GST or HST number, with the exception of charities and a few listed financial institutions. For CRA purposes, electronic filing options include:

- GST/HST NETFILE: a direct online submission to the CRA.

- My Business Account: A secure CRA portal for various business tax accounts.

- Represent a Client: A service for accountants to file a return on behalf of their clients.

- Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): Electronic payment of net tax through Canadian financial institutions.

- GST/HST TELEFILE: A telephone-based filing system using a touchtone phone.

- GST/HST Internet File Transfer: Submission through third-party accounting software.

Key takeaway for farmers: for those without access to a computer or a reliable Internet connection, filing by phone using GST/HST TELEFILE is a valid electronic filing option.

It can be a bit overwhelming to keep on top of the evolving tax landscape, so OFA has put together an easy-to-follow fact sheet that summarizes these key changes and where to go for more information. It’s downloadable on the OFA website.

In addition to farming and running a business that offers services to farmers, I have also spent a large part of my career in the corporate world. So I’m no stranger to the paperwork that comes with being in business. Here are a few tips to make things easier at tax time. Keep good financial records and make sure that those records and your books are up to date. Look for updates on changes from the OFA, accounting firms, financial institutions and others. Consult professionals like accountants, tax specialists, financial advisors or estate planners to help you to navigate any new requirements and ensure you’re compliant.

Elevator: 613-774-4246

Home: 613-774-3305 • Cell: 613-229-2142

12650 Ormond Road, Winchester, Ontario

Wollastonite: Improving Ag productivity and fighting climate change

Local farmers will be excited to learn about a recently announced business partnership that will be a win-win both for themselves and the planet. Canadian Wollastonite (CW), a mining company based a short distance north of Kingston, has teamed up with UK-based UNDO Carbon to subsidize a lime alternative for spreading on Ontario fields that will help to combat climate change.

The two companies have partnered in a three-year carbon removal demonstration project which is the largest initiative of its kind in North America. Their goal will be to show that Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) is a shovel ready, low cost, geoengineering tool that is a win for both farmers and the planet. ERW captures carbon dioxide by spreading crushed rock on the soil that starts a chemical reaction. The process begins when carbon dioxide is captured by rain and forms

carbonic acid. When the acidic rain reacts with wollastonite it releases calcium, magnesium, and silicon into the soil, while storing carbon in the ground water for thousands of years. The successes achieved by the Canadian demonstration project will be used to model, calibrate and scale similar ERW programs around the world. For participating farmers, the CW-UNDO initiative will create attractive opportunities to save money and realize important benefits for their crops.

UNDO Carbon, established in 2022, is a global pioneer in the field of carbon removal which is on a mission to permanently remove one billion tons of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This will be accomplished through ERW projects both in Canada and various other countries. ERW is designed to accelerate the naturally occurring process of rock weathering by crushing chemically reactive rock into

fine silicate powder, thereby exposing more reactive surface area to the elements. ERW is UNDO’s permanent, rapid, and scalable carbon dioxide removal technology that has the potential to lock away up to four billion tons of carbon dioxide per year. This equates to 40% of global carbon dioxide removal targets.

Canadian Wollastonite, located in Seeley’s Bay, was established to develop one of the world’s largest deposits of wollastonite, an environmentally friendly white mineral that has impressive soil enhancing and carbon dioxide sequestering properties. The new joint initiative with UNDO will provide Canadian farmers with crushed wollastonite that can improve crop yields. In addition to its utility as a natural fertilizer, the wollastonite which is spread on farmers’ fields will make valuable environmental contributions by removing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

The process jointly developed by CW and UNDO Carbon makes it possible for substantial amounts of carbon to be captured quickly, with carbon dioxide molecules being flushed down through soils and waterways leading to their permanent storage for thousands of years. UNDO Carbon provides the technical expertise that is required to

accurately measure and document the amount of carbon dioxide that is being captured.

Wollastonite would customarily be sold to the horticultural market for $50 per ton. However, the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through ERW creates high quality carbon removal credits which are sold on the voluntary carbon market. The revenues that flow from these sales make it possible to subsidize 100% of the cost of the wollastonite itself. To make the deal even more attractive, CW is now offering a limited time spring promotion wherein the company will pay the spreading costs for participating farmers. The only cost to farmers is the trucking from the mine site in Seeley’s Bay.

As a result of the way that the CW–UNDO operating model is structured, it offers a compelling economic argument for using wollastonite as a highly effective substitute for lime. The concept has already been enthusiastically embraced by several Ontario farmers, who confirm that the value proposition involved is a powerful one that’s hard to resist.

Exhaustive and rigorous testing of wollastonite has demonstrated that it is a mineral that is ideally suited to agricultural applications. The methodology that has been developed by the two compa-

Sevita IP bean warehouse goes up in flames

Sevita IP soybean processing plant after the fire on Feb. 22 (Sevita International drone photo)

courtesy of Farmers Forum

An early morning fire at Sevita Interna-

tional’s Inkerman IP soybean-processing plant on February 22 destroyed a warehouse and 50% of

processing capacity.

Sevita will rely on third-party partners to fill the gap in the short term.

The surrounding grain and elevator systems remain mostly operational and the company will resume bringing in Sevita soybeans currently stored on-farm with local growers “relatively soon,” Sevita Marketing Co-ordinator Anna Stubbings said.

The cause of the fire is not known, and the value of the fully insured loss has yet to be deter-

mined. One part of the affected facility recently underwent a $7-million renovation and survived because of a built-in fire suppression system. No one was injured.

Sevita contracts with local farmers to grow food-grade, identitypreserved soybeans for export. Fortunately, the seed supply for this year’s planting was unscathed and the company expects no signifi cant obstacles delivering existing and new orders for the 2024 planting season.

nies has already been shown to demonstrate over 90% carbon efficiency. The plan is to rapidly scale up the rollout of the CW-UNDO partnership, increasing the amount of wollastonite that will be spread on Ontario farms from 10,000 tonnes in 2023 to 100,000 tonnes by the end of 2024. If all goes according to plan, it will result in the removal of one million tonnes of carbon dioxide from Ontario fields over the next seven years.

Wollastonite also has other important advantages that will directly benefit farmers. The mineral contains valuable plant nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and silicon, which has been proven to be particularly effective in terms of improving stress tolerance, enhancing crop quality, and fortifying plants against pests and diseases. As wollastonite breaks down, it releases vital nutrients into soil that are made available to plants and crops. Independent lab-based studies have shown

that application of wollastonite to crops can increase dry mass by 177%, plant height by 59%, and dry biomass weight by 90%.

By substituting wollastonite for traditional lime and expensive lime applications, farmers can save both money and eliminate the significant amounts of carbon dioxide that are released when lime is applied. The arrangement between CW and UNDO Carbon has been structured so as to make it simple and easy for farmers to take advantage of what the two companies can offer.

Farmers interested in exploring this opportunity are encouraged to contact Canadian Wollastonite to discuss how they can participate. For more information, please visit the Company’s website https:// www.canadianwollastonite. com/carboncapture or contact Harris Ivens, Project Manager, at (613) 387 – 2734 ext. .100 or by e-mail at Backoffice@ CanadianWollastonite.com.

Helluvaview Hobby Farm

Pasture Raised Beef, Mangalitsa Pork, Chickens & Turkeys.

Our animals are ethically raised, no hormones, no antitbiotics

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j.rodney65@hotmail.com 613.229.0944 Winchester, ON

New report claims Ford government is pushing private health care

by Brandon Mayer

“Robbing the public to build the private”. That is the titular claim of a report released last week by the Ontario Health Coalition which suggests that Doug Ford’s provincial government is starving Ontario’s health care system on purpose. Why? To push an agenda of increased for-profit health care.

“Ontario’s public hospitals enjoy overwhelming support from the population,” the February 21 report says. “As such, their privatization could not be accomplished unless they

were dismantled, underresourced, and unable to provide for their communities, and that is exactly what is happening.”

The report specifically claims that human and financial resources which should be allocated to our public hospitals and clinics are instead being given to “private for-profit clinics and hospitals''. The funding increase for hospitals and clinics did not meet the rate of inflation in the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 budgets.

Health and personal care cost inflation was between 3.3% – 6.9%, while overall health care funding increased by just 1.5%.

Private clinics, in contrast,

had a 212% funding increase in the same period, which the report asserts “could not be more stark” of a difference. The fact that wage increases have been capped at 1% per year for public hospital staff is also argued as a serious double standard in the report, given that forprofit healthcare staffing agencies that supply nurses to hospitals received a 70% increase in funding in the previous year.

The report compiles data that will not come as a surprise to many readers – there were 868 temporary or permanent emergency department closures between January 1 and November 24 of last year, and 316 hospital urgent care centre closures during the same period. It is further noted that many hospitals have operating rooms that are not used and therefore wasted.

The report makes many strong claims, saying, for example: “Not only do for-profit clinics get funded at a much higher rate per procedure from our public tax dollars, they also maximize their profits by extra-billing patients and charging user fees, even though it is unlawful to do so. In addition, they ‘upsell’ medically unnecessary tests and services to patients, often using manipulative tactics to do so.”

While the claims within the report are big, they are backed by evidence, both statistical and anecdotal. Local area residents have been experiencing health care shortages firsthand for over a year, including hospital waiting room closures, and difficulty securing a family doctor. Wait times have noticeably increased at some hospitals and clin-

Duncan to Transport Canada: Stop blocking major housing project in Cornwall

Local Member of Parliament Eric Duncan (Stormont-DundasSouth Glengarry) is calling on the Minister of Transport to end the gatekeeping and cut the red tape that is blocking a major residential development from getting underway in Cornwall this year.

“The Liberals promised 8 years ago that they would return Cornwall’s waterfront lands owned by Transport Canada to local ownership and control. Here we are, 8 years later, and they have yet to transfer even a single parcel,” said Duncan.

“This has been a perfect example of red tape and bureaucracy. As the process drags on, Transport Canada bureaucrats are now contradicting each other and creating chaos. The Liberals have literally got nothing done on this important fi le after years of vague ‘consultations’ and no decisions being made.”

A renewed sense of urgency has put the Transport Canada issue in the spotlight with the City finalizing plans and approvals for the 10 Brookdale Avenue development, which would add 506 multi-residential

units to a 1.1-hectare (2.8-acre) parcel of land at the southwest corner of Brookdale Avenue and Water Street.

The City requires ‘Parcel 6’ of the Transport Canada lands covering the intersection of Brookdale and Water Street to be transferred to the City of Cornwall, so that the road entrance can be built to the west of the intersection.

While Transport Canada had stated to the City that the entire portfolio of lands must be handled and sold in its entirety, it was later revealed that bureaucrats at Transport

ics, and there has been a push from some opinion writers toward the privatization of health care to lessen the burden on public health care.

Many large media organizations were reporting on the Ontario Health Coalition report the day that it was released. As

of time of writing, the Ford government had not responded to the claims made in the report.

Canada and the Federal Bridge Corporation Ltd. (FBCL) were in negotiations about acquiring only ‘Parcel 6’ in a special arrangement.

Once the City became engaged, an agreement was reached locally that would see the City and FBCL split ‘Parcel 6’, which would allow each to have ownership of the required above and below ground infrastructure that each group already owns and operates. This includes the City’s traffic lights at the intersection and the Bridge Corporation’s underground infrastructure and entrance to the bridge toll area. Akwesasne Grand Chief Abram Benedict has added his voice and support for the arrangement, which would allow the large and vital residential project to proceed at 10 Brookdale Avenue.

Recently, City of Cornwall Mayor Justin Towndale wrote the Minister of Transport Pablo Rodriguez expressing the City’s frustrations. He stated “I, along with my council are frustrated. We are frustrated both by the length of time the divestiture is taking, as well as the way the divestiture

process has been handled by your ministry to date... We do not believe that these actions reflect discussions in good faith and true partnership”.

“Because of the Liberals’ dithering and failure to actually get anything done on Cornwall’s waterfront lands, we are now seeing this important 506-unit development in jeopardy of not moving forward,” said Duncan. “We are in a housing crisis, and yet the lawyers and bureaucrats still can’t figure things out after all

these years. It is time for Minister Rodriguez to intervene, show some common sense, and get this parcel transferred so that Cornwall doesn’t lose the chance to build these desperately needed new housing units.”

Around Town with Nanda

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

A failing grade in basic mathematics

Have even one in a thousand North Americans ever heard of Kissick' s Law? More than 25 years ago, if you were reading the Ontario Medical Review, you would have seen an article, written by Dr. Samuel Vaisrub, explaining the message. Kissick stated that if the U.S. Declaration of Independence was written in contemporary times, it would declare the pursuit of health, rather than happiness, after life and liberty, as the third inalienable right of Americans.

About 50 years ago Kissick, a professor at the renowned U.S. Wharton School of Business, stunned Canadians and Americans with a show stopping speech about the economic laws of health care economics. Considering the ongoing healthcare mess in both countries today, it's a shame his wise counsel never took hold.

What did Kissick recommend? It was about what every family in North America knows. If you spend more than you earn, soon enough the laws of economics will trigger bankruptcy. Kissick's warning was simple arithmetic. Readers should get up, find a pen, and write this principle down over and over.

No society in the world has sufficient money to provide all the healthcare services its population is capable of using, Kissick warned. But he was not finished, so keep your pen handy and keep writing.

He added that even if the nation's gross national product were expanding at record-setting rates, it would still not be enough. People have a voracious appetite for spending on their health. If left to the forces of demand, healthcare spending would consume the nation's entire budget.

He said the problem was similar to giving his credit card to his daughter and saying, "Darling, go buy anything you want, and I will pay all the bills." Kissick hesitated for a moment, and then added, "If what I have told you doesn't alarm you," he said to the audience, "I'll loan you my daughter!"

Economists have been saying the same thing. For decades, healthcare spending in many places around the world has been outpacing economic growth. It's simply not sustainable. We are no longer approaching the time when we will be forced to accept the consequences. We have reached it. The pursuit of healthcare has limitations. Our collective psyche must face the reckoning. We will have less, not more, healthcare spending. And if we refuse to accept this, then we will have worse roads, backed-up sewers, poorer education, and you name it, a lot less to invest in everything else that that we like to take for granted.

An old joke offers the definition of a healthy person. It's someone who hasn't been seen by enough doctors or had enough tests done.

And this is true. Inevitably, everyone will find one health problem or another.

But being obsessive about health, always wanting more and more care, is neither advisable nor feasible. As governments face the hard reality of cancelling their healthcare credit cards, you can be sure that they'll never tell you straight up about it. Voters don't want to hear about it, especially that enormous cohort of the population that is ageing into retirement years.

There is a better alternative. People should be less obsessive about healthcare and more determined to avoid the need for it. The human body is an amazing organism, but only if not abused by cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs, both legal and illegal, by junk food, by lack of exercise, and by the long list of environmental and other global problems.

Can we make the shift?

Or do we need to pray for divine intervention to avoid this disastrous train wreck.

Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @ docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones.

Increase in measles activity and importance of immunization

T he Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) is alerting the public to the global increase in measles activity and reminding people of the importance of routine vaccinations in protecting against illnesses.

The World Health Organization reported in December 2023 that measles cases in Europe have increased 30fold, and the Pan-American Health Organization has recently reported measles cases in the Americas, from travel to other countries. Four active cases of measles have been reported in Canada. While there are no active measles cases in the EOHU region, there are two cases in Ontario, in the Region of Peel and the

City of Toronto.

“As we approach March break and families finalize their travel plans, I would like to remind everyone of the importance of staying up to date on your routine immunizations.” says Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health at the EOHU. “While measles doesn’t normally circulate in Canada, it is currently circulating in other countries and can be acquired while travelling. Being vaccinated against it greatly decreases the chances of catching it and bringing it home with you.”

In Ontario, children receive two doses of the measles (MMR) vaccine as part of the publicly funded immunization schedule. The first dose

is given on or after their first birthday, and the second dose between the ages of 4 and 6 years old.

If you or your child are not up to date on your vaccinations, please contact your health care provider to receive missing immunizations. Residents without a health care provider can also receive their routine immunizations at the EOHU.

If you or a member of your family are experiencing symptoms of measles after returning home from travel or believe you may have been in contact with someone with measles, please contact your health care provider or the EOHU at 613-933-1375 or 1-800-267-7120.

Keeping energy and housing costs down projects.”

The Ontario government has introduced legislation that, if passed, would reverse a December 2023 decision by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) that would have significantly increased the costs of building new homes across the Province. Reversing this decision will prevent an average of $4,400 being added to the price of new homes, or tens of thousands of dollars being added to the price of a home in rural Ontario.

“Since day one, our government has taken action to lower energy costs, including by cancelling the previous government’s cap-and-trade carbon tax and cutting the gas tax,” said Todd Smith, Minister of Energy. “While previous governments implemented schemes that led to skyrocketing energy prices, we’re using every tool in our toolbox to keep costs down for people and businesses. The Keeping Energy Costs Down Act will protect future homebuyers from increased costs and keep shovels in the ground on critical infrastructure

The Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024 would, if passed, give the Province authority to reverse the OEB decision to require residential customers and small businesses to pay 100 per cent of the cost of new natural gas connections upfront. These costs would have previously been paid over forty years. Once the government introduces a Natural Gas Policy Statement, a recommendation of the Electrification and Energy Transition Panel’s final report, it will require the OEB to consider this issue again.

The government will also appoint a new chair of the OEB this spring with the expectation that the Board and commissioners conducts appropriate consultation – in line with the proposed legislative requirementsbefore reaching decisions that support the objective of an affordable, reliable, and clean energy system.

“Natural gas will continue to be an important part of Ontario’s energy

Tid Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW MARCH ON. KEEP MARCHING!

Those words are synonymous with precision, attention, direction, compliance, focus, mission, and definitely progression. Before you march on or move forward, do you know your destination, your plan of action or the directive you choose to acquire? It is acceptable to change momentum as need be? Little is written in stone.

Regardless of age, social standing, or geographical location, there is a universal desire to achieve and be experiencing peace and happiness. Sitting still, physically, emotionally and psychologically while waiting to die is your captor. Passivity marks loneliness and a never-ending emptiness. Despite physical limitations, you can still impart wisdom and experience to others. Your companionship is priceless to someone. A stroke victim unable to speak, hummed an old Sunday school song that sparked an interest in her spiritual upbringing in the nurses' awareness. You do have something of value to share – even if it is your smile and wave. Words of thankfulness and appreciation are never insignificant. Affluence does not just entail finances. Being at peace with yourself is paramount.

Marching on can entail some soul searching of your values and morals. Perhaps past hurts need to delegated to the "over and done" file. Bear in mind, reconciliation and forgiveness are NOT synonymous. When evaluations of what you thought your parent(s) should have done are outweighing what they did do for you, you will have unrest. Have you tried discussing the troublesome elements of your life with a neutral party?

All too often, a life is finished through illness, accidents or simply aging, but there remains unfinished business for you before you march on. Once dementia sets in, the ability to process situations is non-existent. make today the day you march on by confronting and compromising so you attain peace, contentment and joy on your journey to self-discovery. Remember: spirituality has an individual, community and cosmic element. Today is your moment to march on – do it wisely.

mix as we implement our pragmatic plan to invest in and bring online more clean nuclear energy,” added Minister Smith. “Unlike the previous government, which saddled families with sky-high hydro bills, our government is taking a thoughtful approach that keeps costs down for people and businesses and delivers energy security.”

To ensure that future decisions reflect and support the priorities of the people of Ontario, the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act would require the OEB to conduct broader engagement to ensure impacted organizations and sectors have an opportunity to participate in proceedings. It would also enable the government to require the OEB to conduct a separate hearing on any matter of public interest.

The proposed legislation would also maintain the existing treatment of gas transmission projects that are critical to the Province’s economic growth by ensuring that new customers do not have to incur

upfront financial contributions and update the OEB’s Leave to Construct process to respond to concerns raised by municipalities around supporting critical housing projects and local economic development initiatives.

Through the Clean Home Heating Initiative, Ontario is deploying hybrid heating solutions which pair electrically powered air source heat pumps with a conventional natural gas furnace to reduce energy costs and emissions by leveraging Ontario’s world-class clean electricity grid. Maintaining access to natural gas ensures reliable access to heat on the coldest days of the year.

To help Ontario families and businesses keep costs down, the government extended the gas and fuel tax rate cuts through to June 30, 2024. Along with the rate cuts previously in place, this extension is expected to save households $260 on average since the cuts were first implemented in July 2022.

It’s in the cards!

Print media - not dead yet

by David Shanahan

The death of newspapers, magazines, in fact all print media, has been declared repeatedly in the past decade or so. On-line platforms, both social media and websites of newspapers, were the perceived culprits , and the recent announcement that Readers Digest Canada was to cease publication seemed to confirm the death of physical, holdin-your-hand publications.

But newspapers, particularly community newspapers like the Times, are refusing to die, no matter how difficult it has been to maintain life under harsh circumstances. According to a recent report by News Media Canada, more than 13 million copies of free community newspapers are distributed across Canada every week, along with another 15 million daily papers, most of them paid publications.

Ontario has the largest number of publications among the provinces and territories, 297 titles, with a total circulation of almost 10 million copies weekly. Canadians use four platforms to access news: print, website, tablet and phone, and 58% of all readers use printed publications. And newspapers remain a trusted source for news and information. According to the report, 60% of all Canadians trust print and digital newspaper content.

One of the myths regarding print media and newspapers in particular, is that younger people don’t read them, preferring podcasts or digital editions. News Media Canada’s survey, conducted in November of last year, showed that the truth is much different. Of the Millenial generation (aged 28-43), 83% read a newspaper weekly, either on paper or digitally. An almost identical number of the younger generation, aged between 20 and 27, 84%, read a newspaper weekly , 30% of them on all four platforms, including print.

So, newspapers are not just for an older demographic: they are a trusted and valued source of news and information for all age groups in Canada. Local, free community newspapers, like the Times, may be finding it hard to survive in an expensive and demanding milieu, but it seems it’s worth the trouble after all. And that is very encouraging indeed!

The Chesterville Bridge Club meets every Monday afternoon from September to mid-May. Members come from the surrounding area to play cards for a weekly fee of $4. And they also give back to support health care close to home!

Recently, some of the players stopped by to present a donation of $1,000 to the Winchester

District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) Auxiliary. Since March 2016, the Chesterville Bridge Club has raised $28,600 for the Auxiliary. That’s a lot of trumps!

Together, the Bridge Club and our amazing volunteers are truly making a difference and helping WDMH better serve the needs of the surrounding communities.

“Thank you to The Chesterville Bridge Club for your continued and ongoing support. It is so wonderful that you get together to play bridge and support our local hospital,” sum up Eleanor Jordan and Louise Arsenault, Auxiliary CoPresidents.

Thank you as well to The Gathering House for supporting this fundraiser

and allowing the Club to use its facility.

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.

OPP Fraud Prevention Month

This year’s Fraud Prevention Month (FPM) campaign will focus on “20 years of fighting fraud – where are we now?” The 2024 campaign will showcase the way fraud has evolved over the past 20 years. The goal of the campaign is to empower Canadians with information, tools, and strategies to recognize, reject and report fraud.

Being able to recognize techniques used by cyber criminals will go a long way in helping Canadians combat cyber enabled frauds. In the past 20 years, technology has transformed the fraud landscape, which is more widespread and sophisticated than ever before. Information, tips, and strategies help Ontarians fight back against cyberenabled fraud.

In 2023, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) received fraud reports totalling a staggering $554 million in victim losses, surpassing the 2022 historic loss amounts of $530 million. With the evolution of fraud, 75 percent of overall losses reported to the CAFC are from cyber-enabled fraud, and this is expected to in-

crease year over year. It is estimated that only five to 10 percent of victims report scams and frauds to the CAFC or law enforcement.

According to the CAFC, in 2023, the top five frauds affecting Canadians daily were:

- Investment frauds represented $309 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $111.2 million.

- Spear phishing frauds (Business Email Compromise) represented $58.2 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $21.3 million.

- Romance frauds represented $50.3 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $21.3 million.

- Job scams represented $27.7 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $9.4 million.

- Service frauds represented $22.2 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $8.3 million. Fraudsters will create spoofed websites, use spoofed telephone numbers using Voice over

Internet Protocol (VoIP) to mimic legitimate numbers, will have victims download remote-entry software providing access to devices and computers or send out phishing texts with hyperlinks imitating legitimate businesses or governments offering refunds, rebates or requiring payments.

Take Action

Join the OPP in raising awareness in the month of March 2024. Our law enforcement partners will be posting social media tips, bulletins, and various other resources.

On March 21, at 12:30 pm, the OPP, CAFC, Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, Canada Post, and the Canadian Money Services Business Association, will be hosting a live chat to discuss tools that fraudsters use to victimize Ontario residents. You can view this live chat on the OPP’s X and Facebook.

Stephen Buchanan, Acting Detective Inspector, Anti-Rackets Branch, Financial Crime Services, Ontario Provincial Police, pointed out that: “The incidents of fraud in Ontario are among the highest in the country.

Throughout the month of March, the OPP along with the CAFC hope to raise awareness of the growing need for deterrence and reporting of fraud against the people of Ontario and in particular those in our vulnerable populations. Please take the time to spread the word on fraud awareness, and educate your loved ones and those around you on how to identify indicators of fraud. Together, we can help reduce the harm that fraud can cause.”

Remember, if you become a victim of a fraud or know someone who has, contact your local police service to report the crime and report it to the CAFC at 1-888-4958501 or online on the Fraud Reporting System (FRS), even if a financial loss did not occur.

Follow our social media, using hashtags #FPM2024, #kNOwfraud and @canantifraud, as we will be posting on social media each week during the month of March.

ACROSS

1. Not fat

5. F F F

9. Sheriff's group

14. Designed for flight

15. Average

16. Initial wagers

17. Musical buildup

19. Violent disruptions

20. Savory

21. Morning moisture

23. Rise to power

25. Relating to stars

28. Cap

29. Young boy

32. Prey

33. Boozer

34. Jeer

35. Dugout shelter

36. Not before

38. Crazily

39. Wingless bloodsucking insect

40. Beam

41. Not outside

43. Provided with food

44. Tavern

45. Assisted

46. Pirate

48. Recognizing

50. A personal journal

54. Christmas song

55. Heavenly

57. Astound

58. Anagram of "Sale"

59. Inactive

60. Discourage

61. For fear that

62. Appear to be DOWN

1. Diplomacy

2. Wife of Zeus

3. Ticks off

4. Yearning for the past

5. An uncle

6. Wheel cover

7. Evanesces

8. Type of hare

9. Mimic

10. An aromatic flavorful vegetable

11. Cease

12. Adjusts

13. S

18. Repetitive pattern

22. Tirade

24. Waterfall

25. Personnel

26. A piece of flat furniture

27. Made a mistake

29. Boundary

30. House

31. Feinted

33. Hog's home

34. Stomach inflammation

37. Ludicrous

42. Requires

44. Manservant

45. Corner measurements

46. Alcohol

47. Bless with oil

48. Identical

49. Backside

51. Assistant

52. Rattling breath

53. Anagram of "Lyme"

54. Bounder

56. Estimated (abbrev.)

Mental health portal closure is a bad idea

by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health

On February 8, 2024 the federal government announced that it would stop funding and close the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal on April 3, 2024. WTC was originally created by the government in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. This decision puts an end to a low barrier, universal point of access to mental health and substance use health services.

The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) urges the federal government and its provincial and territorial counterparts to act immediately to find a way to continue funding Wellness Together Canada. Mental health and substance use health is health and all people in Canada have a right to universal care.

The federal government stated that the emergency phase of the health crisis is over and that the mental health of Canadians has improved since the lows during the pandemic, however, the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on mental health and substance use health continue,” says Ellen Cohen, CAMIMH co-Chair. “Statistics Canada data shows that while moderate to severe symptoms of mental disorders have recovered from midpandemic lows, they persist at higher levels than prior to the pandemic.”

The federal government says that it has en-

gaged with the provinces and territories to ensure a transition of services. “But workforce limitations mean not all provinces and territories have the capacity to create a regional version of the services offered on this central portal, which has access to a Canada-wide workforce,” counters Cohen. “This national universal service has supported millions of people, filled gaps and reduced burden on the mental health system. The service was gaining momentum with 4.2 million people having used the portal—thousands a day. Patients were referred to the portal by mental health professionals, family doctors, community services and more recently, the new 988 suicide crisis helpline.”

Just last month, CAMIMH released the results of its second annual mental health and substance use health report card (www. CAMIMH.ca). Once again, Canadians gave their provinces a failing grade when asked how well they thought the mental health and substance use health needs of people in their province were being met. The closure of Wellness Together Canada and these results demonstrate that the federal government is out of touch with the mental health and substance use health realities of Canadians. Eliminating an effective, low barrier support such as Wellness Together Canada is a step backwards.

Health Canada states that it continues to work alongside provinces and territories to make mental health and substance use health

care a full and equal part of Canada’s health care system. However, CAMIMH is not aware of such collaboration taking place, particularly in absence of a Canada Mental Health Transfer. “The closure of Wellness Together Canada is another example of the federal government failing to invest in mental health and substance use health care, which has been chronically underfunded and is, more than ever, in dire need of resources,” says Florence Budden, CAMIMH Co-Chair.

Canada’s universal health care system, unlike in many other G7 countries, does not include mental health and substance use health. By ending funding to Wellness Together Canada, we are concerned that this government is reducing its funding commitment to support mental health and substance use health care.

Established in 1998, the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is a memberdriven alliance of 18 national mental health organizations including healthcare providers and organizations representing persons with lived and living experience, their families and caregivers. CAMIMH’s mandate is to ensure that mental health and substance use health is placed on the national agenda so that the people of Canada receive timely and appropriate access to care and support. For more information on our work, please visit our website at www.CAMIMH.ca.

"Home isn't where you're from, it's where you nd light when all grows dark.”

11879 Cty Rd 3

MOUNTAIN - This large 4 bedroom home with a large shop on almost 4 acres is perfect to entertain in with a formal dining room, living room with wood burning fireplace, and fully finished family room with wet bar!

$624,900 MLS #1378433

3528 Cty Rd 7

DUNBAR - This charming 5 bedroom home sits on just over half an acre and features a nice mix of character and modern features. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, a master bedroom with walk in closet and access to the back porch plus tons of storage space in the Kitchen. $499,900 MLS # 1378103

110 King

CHESTERVILLE - Stunning 3 bed, 2 bath home with attached 2 car garage. You’ll love the spacious kitchen, character filled dining room with natural gas fireplace. & perfect space for kids or hobbies on the 2nd floor. Bigger than it looks! $470,000 MLS #1379167

96 Glamorgan

KANATA - This affordable semi-detached home is close to all amenities and has everything you might need - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully finished basement with large family room and office, large front porch & a fully fenced yard that backs onto the TransCanada Trail. $549,900 MLS# 1378806

Looking for something besides a house? Check out these options!

Hawksbury - 24 Unit, Mobile Home Park $ 1,249,900 MLS # 1371600

Williamsbug - Commercial Rental with old bank vault $2,200 / mo MLS #1321344

Kemptville - 1 acre rural building lot $229,900 MLS #1373584

Winchester - 2bd Residential Rental $1,600 / mo MLS #1378844

Chesterville - Renovator Special with Income Potential $299,900 MLS #1368108

If you don’t see what you are looking for - reach out to us! We have access to all the properties on the MLS™ system and our dedicated Buyer Representative is ready to help you find the right place!

Our Sales Representatives

Call today for a FREE consultation

Emily Blanchard* Kim Monkhouse* Nathan Lang* Melissa Cooper* 613-774-2323

*Sales Representative

WWW.OLDFORD.CA

Thin ice is a danger to be avoided

The OPP has issued a statement warning people against venturing out on ice surfaces after three incidents around the region in less than a week. In a media release, the OPP reported on an incident in the Prince Edward County area, illustrating what can happen in current circumstances.

“There has been another dangerous situation in eastern Ontario with people venturing

CDSBEO 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

Each year, school boards in Ontario are required to submit their school year calendars to the Ministry of Education on or before March 1. The Ministry provides guidelines to school boards for developing school year

calendars, and Regulation 304 outlines the requirements for preparation and submission to the Ministry of Education.

Superintendent of School Effectiveness

Dawn Finnegan presented the proposed school year calendar for 2024-2025 to

the Board of Trustees. The proposed calendar was developed with special consideration given to serving the best interests of students, and through a consultation process which collected feedback from parents, staff, and other stakeholders. The proposed calendar was circulated through internal memo, as well as through the CDSBEO website and social media channels, and

feedback was collected through an online survey.

“I am pleased to see that the consultation process was very thorough, and that so many of our stakeholders and community partners had an opportunity to share their input,” concluded Chair Wilson.

The final proposed 2024-2025 School Year Calendar was approved by the Board of Trustees.

onto the ice. It happened shortly after 5:00 pm on February 21. Four men had been out fishing on the ice of Wellers Bay, nearly a kilometre from shore in the Consecon area. The ice they were on separated from shore, leaving them no way to get back. Prince Edward Fire and Rescue responded and was able to rescue two of the men using a boat. A helicopter from 424 Search and Rescue Squadron at CFB Trenton was dispatched by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and its crew was able to rescue the other two men and bring them to shore.”

The statement noted further that there have been several recent incidents across eastern Ontario involving people falling through the ice, including one which tragically resulted in the death of two people.

The OPP continues to stress that no ice is safe ice, as the winter weather has not been typical and

ice conditions have been unpredictable and inconsistent. They point out that ice is greatly affected by weather, as well as other factors including:

- water depth and size of body of water,

- currents and other moving water,

- logs, rocks, and shoals absorbing heat from the sun, and

- changing air temperature.

Ice does not form at uniform thickness on a body of water. It may look safe, but may not be thick, strong or stable enough to support a person's weight. This week's mild weather will make the ice even less stable. Children should not play near or on ice covered bodies of water or even cold or fast flowing water.

People using any water area that is ice-covered need to be aware of these factors and the danger thin ice poses. Check everything before venturing out on the ice.

March 8 - 26

1 in 4 Canadian women have chosen between paying for menstural hygiene products and rent or food. These are necessary expenses no one should have to make sacrifces to afford.

PERIOD.

Support the 4th Tampon Tuesday product drive in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry!

Donate

Run a workplace drive

Help stuff a Cornwall Transit Bus on March 26

www.unitedwaysdg.com

A Leap Year early surprise Confucius reigns both in our world and that of the birds methinks! With the temperatures being all over the place in this, the early 2024 month of February, it is hard to imagine what the birds and hibernating animals are thinking.

gave away the presence of a Red Winged Blackbird! As if that wasn't exciting and bewildering enough, above my head I heard the "honking" of a beautifully symmetrical "vee" formation of Canada Geese, as it traversed my viewing range, seeking, no doubt, some of the "still open" waters nearby. How confusing for us all.

Talking of open waters, whilst in a pharmacy and in conversation with a lady who lives near the Rideau River, she informed me that they are seeing ducks and also other water birds appearing early too, so nature is really topsy-turvy! Perhaps you too are also seeing for yourselves what is happening in your gardens and in your trees, there are obviously different things to be seen, so I hope you can enjoy the moments as these events occur before your very own eyes. My two pictures for this article are a Tree Sparrow and a Red Winged Blackbird. Stay safe and well.

Chipmunks have appeared and are sitting in the bright sunlight as it melts some of our winter "blues" away, and a very black flash of bird feathers in one of my front garden feeders, accompanied by that tell-tale flash of white in the wing,

Cheers,

John Baldwin

an event or special occasion that you would like photographed for the paper? Let me know.

Legion Remembrance Day art contest winners announced

by Jeannette FroeseLeBlanc

importance of “Remembrance”. Under guidance from teacher and army veteran, Mme. Jeannette LeBlanc, the School and its community partici-

pated in a well-organized and respectful Remembrance Day service in November. Guests included former as well as current military members, many

of whom remarked at how all Nationview students were very considerate. Members from Legion Branch 108 in Winchester took part in the service

and delighted in the artwork produced by all the classes from kindergarten to grade 6. The artwork shared the theme of Remembrance but also celebrated world peace. Many classes at Nationview Public School submitted artwork to the annual arts contest held by the Royal Canadian Legion.

On Thursday February 22nd, Nationview Public School held a special assembly to give out the awards from the annual "National Youth Remembrance Contests" by the Royal Canadian Legion. Through this program, the next generation can learn about Canadian contributions to peace around the world. Mr. Mike Hayes from

the Winchester Legion Branch 108 awarded students in grades 1 through 6 awards for colour poster, black and white poster, and poetry. Two students who won first place at the Winchester Legion had their art work move on to the District level where they also won prizes. Mr. Hayes also presented Nationview Public School’s principal, Mrs. Candy Campbell, with a “School Program Poppy Appreciation Award” to recognize the School's efforts in promoting education about the importance of remembrance.

Rockets blast off and advance to round two

by Murray Link

The North Dundas Senior Rockets won 3 games in a row over the past two weekends to advance to the 2nd round of the Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League playoffs. The Rockets played the Paugan Falls Rapids in a series that saw two games at home and one away in Low Quebec. The Rapids completed their inaugural season in the league with a resounding success and were noted with having the largest crowds during the 20 game season with a record 648 fans at their Feb 10 game.

Game 1 of the series took place on Feb 24 in front of a large crowd in Chesterville. The popularity of the Rapids team – which plays out of Low Quebec – was apparent as there were roughly 150 people in attendance cheer-

ing for the visiting team. The home team dominated play, outshooting their opponents 91-36. Coach Leonard Mclean noted that the shot total for the Rockets of 91 was a record, and that Pauagan Falls goaltender Aidan Foley “played one heck of a game”. Foley, who stopped 83 shots, was named second star of the game. #93 Ryan Lough of the Rockets took home first star of the game generating 4pt (1G, 3A).

Game 2 of the best of five series saw the Senior Rockets on the Road travelling to Low Quebec and playing in front of a large crowd which numbered over 650 people. The Rockets were quick out the gate scoring 4 times in the first 12 minutes of the game. Going into the third period, the Rapids had closed the gap and made the score 5-3 but were not able to put any more past

goaltender #25 Matt Jenkins and the visiting team went on to win with a final score of 7-3. On a less positive note, forward #14 Deric Boudreau fell awkwardly late in the second period and broke his leg in 3 spots. Boudreau, one of the Rockets top scoring forwards underwent surgery Feb 27 and will be missed the remainder of the playoffs.

Game 3 of the series took place back in Chesterville on March 2 and the score sheet was almost a carbon copy of Game 1. The Rockets blasted 88 shots at Rapids goaltender Aiden Foley, only to put 7 shots in the net with a final score of 7-2 for the Rockets. With the win, North Dundas won the best of 5 series 3-0 and advanced to round 2 of the eastern division playoffs. Forward #17 Jack Nevins led the home team with 3pts (1G, 2A).

On a positive note regarding #14 Deric Boudreau… the Rockets sold over 110 rally towels to help support Boudreau’s recovery fund after breaking his leg in game #2. Rally towels will be available throughout the playoffs for $10.00, with all funds going directly to Deric. A donation “boot” was also passed through the crowd during the game and Rockets fans were able to help their “hardest working Rocket”.

The next round will be against the Rockets’ biggest rival, the South Stormont Mustangs on Saturday March 9, puck drop at 2:15 in Chesterville. The Rockets only suffered one loss during the regular season, and it was to the Mustangs… you won’t want to miss it. The question is residents of North Dundas: ARE YOU GOING TO THE GAME?

Nationview Public School in South Mountain has emerged as a leader in teaching the

Mr. Hayes with Lauren Scott.

Mr. Hayes with Isabelle Spruit.

Mrs. Campbell and Mr. Hayes.

Group photo of all the winners from Nationview Public School with Mr. Mike Hayes.