Class 1 - 1st place - Haliburton County Echo, February Edition

Mammography machine lands

“Diagnostic

No tax money for Dysart EV capabilities: deputy mayor

JAMES

MATTHEWS Staff Reporter

Dysart may have an opportunity to be expand its infrastructure to accommodate electric vehicles.

Susan Hay of Environment Haliburton told township council Jan. 28 that she’s aware of a grant opportunity which reimburses up to $125,000 to cover a minimum of four Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations in underserved communities.

Council agreed to have staff look into the application.

The grant is called Charged for Change and its deadline to apply is Feb. 20.

“In a tourism-based economy like ours, the lack of charging infrastructure could negatively affect our local economy,” Hay said.

Currently, Dysart has just one charging station located near the tourism information centre.

“If the population of Dysart was 7,100 people, which was what the Census indicated in 2021, the ratio of residents per charging head is far greater than the provincial average,” Hay said. “As you know, when cottagers and tourists are in the area the population is far greater than 7,100.”

Minden Hills has 13 charging heads within 15 kilometres.

Bancroft, with a population of 4,065, boasts a pair of Level 2 charging heads and eight Level 3 charging heads.

“The adoption of EVs (electric vehicles) has rapidly increased,” she said. “Tourists who drive EVs are going to look for charging infrastructure. If it is inadequate or unavailable, they will choose to go elsewhere.”

Municipalities often install Level 2 chargers because they encourage people to spend money in the community while the cars are picking up the boost.

“I believe these charging stations will attract tourists to our area and will support and enhance the economy of

I just don’t want one dollar of taxpayers’ money going towards fixing them, maintaining them, whatever.

— Deputy Mayor Walt McKechnie

Dysart et al.,” she said.

Hay suggested the new station be installed at the A.J. LaRue Arena parking lot to capitalize on the many events that happen there, at the curling club, and at the Royal Canadian Legion branch across the street. That location is also near the municipal buildings.

Should the township decide to add electric-powered vehicles to its fleet, that equipment could be charged right next door, she said.

That arena location is also handy to coffee shops, a grocery store, and other downtown businesses. The facility’s parking lot has two possible sites.

Peter Ewald, a director at Lakeland EV Charging, said his company does installations of EV infrastructure at municipal properties. All they ask is a leasing agreement with the municipality.

Lakeland also asks that the township bylaw staff accept the responsibility to ticket any vehicles that are parked at a charging station but not availing of that service. Money from fines goes to the township.

“We focus on downtown cores so people come and utilize the community services and businesses,” he said.

‘State of the art’ machine here to help

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diagnostic imaging in the roster of services HHHS offers is that they will reduce EMS visits out of county, which aims to keep ambulances available for local emergencies. On top of that, the expansion of services also hopes to attract more healthcare workers to the rural site, including doctors, nurses, and medical radiation technologists.

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, it is estimated that approximately one in eight women will develop breast cancer over their lives. In 2024, 30,500 were diagnosed across the country. Early detection is key to managing symptoms and improving success rates towards treatment plans.

“Mammography is the most effective way of detecting breast cancer in women,” said Nelson. “With the addition of mammography services, HHHS will be able to provide services in a remote area that is currently underserved, including over 6000 at-risk women who live here.”

On Feb. 3, HHHS welcomed the delivery of the mammography machine on-site. Through snowy weather, Melanie Klodt Wong, the HHHSF Executive Director and David Blodgett, HHHSF Board Chair joined Nelson in taking the heavy machinery off the truck, and delivering it into the Haliburton Hospital site.

“We are so excited to have this state of the art equipment here in Haliburton,” said Nelson. “We are one of the first hospitals in Ontario that has this type of mammography equipment.”

The CEO noted that the equipment will enable hospital staff to identify images that can see behind dense breast tissue, offering further insight and medical imaging to ensure early risks of breast cancer are treated effectively and quickly, without having to leave the county.

The machine will be up and running in three to four weeks time, to enable appropriate staff training on the unit.

Melanie Klodt Wong, HHHSF Executive Director, David Blodgett, HHHSF Board Chair, and Veronica Nelson, HHHS President and CEO stand next to the recently delivered mammography equipment at the Haliburton Hospital Site. /DAVID ZILSTRA staff

“When people are charging their electric vehicles they’re likely to spend some time in the community, spending money, which is a win-win for the municipality.”

Lakeland also offers co-ownership of the charging station with the municipality, he said.

Ewald said the work could probably be carried out for about $60,000 depending on the Hydro One hookup, which is less than the maximum allowed through the grant.

“Which is good news,” he said. “We’re more likely to receive the funding then, I think.”

Ewald said vehicle registrations with the province illustrates that more people are putting electric vehicles on the road.

“We are seeing a rapid growth,” he said.

“Do you really believe that electric car sales are going to go up?” Mayor Murray Fearrey said.

“Yes, I do, sir,” Ewald said. “I see it in evidence every day as I’m driving around. All major brands are investing in the EV industry.”

“The reports I read say that they’re not selling,” Fearrey said. “They’re sitting on the lots.”

Ewald said there are statistics that show increases in EV sales.

Deputy Mayor Walt McKechnie said, though he didn’t want an argument, he disagreed with the stats that indicate people buying electric cars.

“I’m 100 per cent against spending one dollar of taxpayers’ money,” McKechnie said. “If you want to put these charging stations in and government wants to give us this money. I just don’t want one dollar of taxpayers’ money going towards fixing them, maintaining them, whatever.”

“This will cost the community nothing,” Hay said. “Absolutely nothing. It will enhance tourism. I think it would be an advantage to have an additional four EV charging stations in a community. To be without adequate infrastructure, you are going to lose on tourism.”

Dysart considers options for a safer Wigamog Road

JAMES MATTHEWS Staff Reporter

Speeding drivers have residents along a section of Wigamog Road in Dysart concerned about pedestrian safety.

And they want township council to establish a Community Safety Zone on about two kilometres of the road from the junction of Wigamog and Wonderland Roads to entry to Haliburton Heights Timeshare Resort.

Residents want the speed limit to be reduced to 40 kilometres per hour along the section of road. They also ask that signage be installed reminding motorists that they have to share the road with cyclists and walkers.

The segment of Wigamog Road is a municipal road so it meets the criteria for Community Safety Zone designation.

“One of the reasons that we want to do this or are asking for this is because over the last 10 years there’s been a substantial increase in the number of people who actual reside along that road,” Clifford Ottaway told Dysart council when it met Jan. 28.

That means increased traffic levels and more people pursuing recreational activities there.

“That increases the likelihood that we’re going to have interactions between pedestrians and cars,” Ottaway said.

Vehicular speed is an important predictor of pedestrian injury and mortality in the event of a collision. Visibility is also an important predictor of vehicle-pedestrian

collisions.

The piece of Wigamog Road that concerns residents is rolling and has five sharp curves which result in as many points where forward visibility is severely limited for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

“Visibility is extremely limited on those curves,” Ottaway said. “If you’re travelling at 50 kilometres per hour, it’s very difficult to see pedestrians.”

The road is less than eight metres across and that poses another risk factor, especially since research holds that just 10 kilometres above the speed limit increases risk by as much as 60 per cent, he said. And the road doesn’t have sidewalks.

Many residents, children, and grandchildren access the lake by crossing the road on foot.

Ottaway presented council with a petition signed by 60 people who live along the concerning section of road and who are in favour of the safety zone designation.

Ottawa said there has been an increase in heavy vehicles on the road due to construction of new residences and it is anticipated that clearance of the demolition debris at the former Wigamog Inn site will further increase heavy vehicle traffic.

An even greater increase would be expected if redevelopment begins on the Wigamog Inn site.

“We’re in the last days of January, about eight weeks from now it’s going to be spring, and a couple weeks from that it’s going to be high-season summer,” Ottaway said. “And there’ll be a lot of people on that road who are going to be in danger.”

Councillor Tammy Donaldson suggested a speed radar camera would work well in that area. The camera

Scott gives green light for housing

EMILY STONEHOUSE Editor

MPP Laurie Scott surprised Minden locals on Tuesday, Jan. 28 with a last-minute press conference, slotted for 10:30 a.m. On short-notice, Minden Hills Mayor Bob Carter and Deputy Warden Liz Danielsen were able to meet Scott near the Minden Legion for an announcement regarding housing.

Last year, the Kawartha Lakes Housing Corporation (KLHC) put in an ask to the provincial government for two grants in an effort to support housing initiatives in both Minden and Lindsay. At the press conference, Scott announced that both grants had been approved for the full amounts; allowing the projects to move forward.

The ask for Minden was 2.4 million, and was to cover a project slated for the Gull River of 35 units. Since 2018, the contentious property has been in discussion at multiple levels of government; hitting snags along the way with the Ministry of Transportation, as well as municipal zoning regulations.

“But now, all the work has been done in terms of geotechnical requirements,” said Carter. “And it’s financially viable to start this project now.”

The property was originally owned by Bill Switzer, who had approached Carter in 2018 about using the plot to fill in the housing gaps, ever-present in the village of Minden. The land travels next to Rotary Park, and alongside the Gull River behind the Minden Legion.

At the time, Carter was a councillor for Minden Hills, and was the chair for the housing task force. “It’s been a team effort between councils and housing corporations,” noted Carter, “and we finally got everything signed off.”

Carter was surprised by the announcement that came

takes a photo of the car with its speed documented and send it with a fine to the vehicle’s registered address.

“I’m thinking that’s the only way people will slow down,” she said.

Rob Camelon, the township’s public works director, said a Community Safety Zone designation would work well, but the effectiveness is conditional upon the level of enforcement.

“You can lower the speed limit to whatever you like, if it’s not enforced it’s moot, quite honestly,” Camelon said.

Dysart has been collaborating with Haliburton County staff with a view to possibly establishing a blanket policy regarding Community Safety Zones amongst the lower tier municipalities, he said.

“Right now, my concern is if we designate Wigamog Road as a Community Safety Zone we’ve literally set precedent for every other road in the municipality,” he said. “And I don’t think that’s what council wants.

“I think we want to actually prioritize these roads and maybe Wigamog is one of those roads.”

“I like the option with the one that takes your licence plate (photo) and gives you a ticket,” Mayor Murray Fearrey said. “That’s the way to stop it. But I wouldn’t want it when you’re (fined) one kilometre over the speed limit. These new cars, if you go down a little grade they jump by five kilometres.”

Council decided to have staff look into options to address the issue and to report back.

“I thought the Wigamog Road was so rough you couldn’t drive on it,” Fearrey quipped and said about how the petitions the township has received disproves that.

through the early morning of Jan. 28, noting that he was informed of the news approximately 40 minutes prior to the press conference. While still slightly in shock, the Minden mayor is optimistic about next steps, and noted that KLHC is in the process of sending out tenders to break ground on the housing development.

Show me the money: Would more pay draw younger town councils?

JAMES MATTHEWS Staff Reporter

The world is getting younger, but you wouldn’t realize that if the makeup of most municipal councils was the indicator.

Each of Haliburton County’s four lower tier townships are paid in the same ballpark, with Algonquin Highlands’ remuneration being the highest.

In Algonquin Highlands, the mayor each year receives $36,723.65. The deputy mayor is on the books for $29,379.05 a year. Councillors receive $24,645.30 a year in salary.

Dysart’s mayor is annually paid $32,219, the deputy mayor is compensated $25,775, and councillors get $22,552.

The annual salary paid to members of council could be increased the first day of each year based on the consumer price index for Ontario. There are also such benefits as compensation for mileage travelled for township business.

According to information provided by the township, Highlands East compensates its mayor, the head of council, as much as $32,500 a year. The deputy mayor is rewarded $26,150 a year, and regular councillors are paid an annual sum of $22,025.

That’s for two meetings a month and councillors are paid $75 for each meeting above the 24 scheduled gatherings. Representatives of the township are paid $75 for each day they attend conferences and meetings and such.

Information about council compensa -

tion in Minden Hills wasn’t available as of press time.

The upper tier council greenlighted in December a comparison of council remuneration among municipalities and counties of similar size. The idea was broached during county council meeting, a debate about the 2025 operating and capital budget, that more coin might convince younger people to throw their hats in the electoral ring.

There’s plenty of time, given the next municipal elections in Ontario isn’t until Oct. 26, 2026.

It can be argued that social concerns shared by people counted among the Boomer generation are not the same as those fretted about by the Gen Z and the Millennial crowds.

The younger generations could share some past-generation concerns, but the world has continued to spin up to today and climate issues and workforce concerns exist today that didn’t even 20 years ago. As is often said: The times, they change and change is the only thing that’s certain between the ages.

So the question was broached by a number of Ontario small-town councils as respective 2025 municipal budgets were inked, some of them wrestled with a question of if councillors should get a raise for their time.

In Haliburton County, Councillor Murray Fearrey, Dysart’s mayor, said in December that he isn’t an advocate for more spending, but he wondered if a few more dollars in the compensation coffer for the next council would pique younger

Dysart hears benefits of group procurement

JAMES

MATTHEWS Staff Reporter

It has long been established that group purchasing yields savings by way of lower prices for bulk materials.

Canoe Procurement Group of Canada facilitates group purchase power for its members.

Sarah Hubble, the group’s Ontario and Nunavut client relations manager, told Dysart township council when it met Jan. 28 that her organization has more than 5,000 members from a number of sectors.

It currently has 76 programs available to Ontario members. In the programs, there are more than 360 suppliers. Basically, it facilitates group-buying of materials which has been a cost-saver for municipalities and other sectors.

Aside from monetary savings, member organizations also save time because they don’t have to go to market as Canoe has already undertaken the request for proposals stage of procurement.

“One of the big components is the saving of money,” Hubble said of how the group helps members. “We get preferred pricing from suppliers who respond to our RFPs and then are awarded contracts.”

To give an idea of the level of savings, she said she’s seen suppliers offer as much as 50 per cent off construction equipment and 88 per cent off other industrial materials. Members can avail of deals for winter maintenance equipment, heavy construction gear, and office suppliers.

Hubble said the group covers many needs across the board.

residents’ interest.

Fearrey said local residents’ average age is older than 70 years.

“And we’re not attracting younger people because they can’t leave their jobs and come to work and do this (council) job,” he said. “And it is a job now. It’s not like it was.”

Deputy Warden Liz Danielsen, the mayor of Algonquin Highlands, said 75 per cent of council members are seniors, which is not representative of residents despite having been elected.

“Having thought about that and the fact that normally if there’s any consideration given to an increase for councils, it’s done for the incoming council,” she said.

If an increase were to be considered, the possibility of phasing it in over a number of years should also be considered, she said.

“So that there’s less impact on the budget overall,” Danielsen said.

She said many people don’t realize that councillors don’t earn a livable wage.

Coun. Bob Carter, the mayor of Minden Hills, said he agreed with Fearrey but implementing an increase in phases would be difficult.

“One of the notions of why we would have an increase is to try to attract people to the job,” Carter said. “And we almost need to have that determined up front at the time of the next election.”

For the most part, serving on a council is no longer a part-time job, he said.

“And if we’re going to ask for people to dedicate all of their time to this and do it right, I think that they have to be compen-

sated for it,” Carter said.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario has a Youth Fellowship Program to stoke the fire of political engagement among young people. Youth in this context refers to people 25 to 30 years old.

It’s a work-integrated learning opportunity that gives three young people from across Ontario who are interested in municipal politics an opportunity to connect with association members.

It provides insight into policy development and critical municipal issues.

An article in the March 2023 issue of Municipal World magazine about the AMO’s 2022 conference in Ottawa detailed some of the suggestions given by that year’s fellowship participants. Incidentally, that was the year of the last municipal elections in Ontario.

According to the magazine, high school and post-secondary years are an impressionable time for young people. They’re looking for work, many of them starting their first jobs and giving their first thoughts to future professions.

“Frankly, a career in municipal government does not have the same hype or acclaim as, say, a doctor or lawyer,” it read. “Students also may not even be aware of it as an option.”

“Young people must be provided with opportunities to learn about local government and the rewarding career possibilities as an elected representative or municipal public servant.”

Of course, a bump in monetary compensation for the current economically trying times couldn’t hurt, either.

“We issue RFPs on behalf of our members,” she said. “We post those notices. We go through the whole procurement process from start to finish.”

Members can go to the Canoe group’s website to see the contracts with suppliers. Then they can avail of the ones that are beneficial to their businesses, she said.

Manufacturers are in the stable of Canoe vendors that would tap one of their local outlets to supply materials and the money stays in the community, she said.

“You’re keeping that money as close to home as possible and that’s a huge benefit,” she said.

Having Canoe facilitate purchases frees up a lot of time to complete work more efficiently and effectively.

“We have it in our procurement bylaw that we’re allowed to use cooperative buying methods and this is just one way of doing it,” said Tamara Wilbee, the township’s CAO.

“My suggestion is that we probably let staff look into it a little more and bring back a recommendation,” Mayor Murray Fearrey said.

Wilbee said membership in the Canoe group would be another tool available to the municipal procurement officer. The Information Technology Department already has a similar setup regarding buying computers.

“It’d be like if you were to join up with the county to do a group purchase of (road) salt,” Hubble said. “That’s what we do, but we do it on a national scale.”

“As long we’re still making sure that local people have an opportunity at this stuff,” Fearrey said.

Public health asks parents to update student vaccine records

JAMES MATTHEWS Staff Reporter

Parents of school-aged children have until Feb. 24 to submit updated vaccination records to the local public health unit.

The Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough public health unit is promoting the importance of submitting proof of immunization updates as a means to ensure against student suspensions from school.

Suspension could begin April 1.

The HKNP health unit was formerly called the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge health unit.

Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), all students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 11 are required to have up-to-date immunization records or a valid exemption on file with the health unit.

Despite issuing over 1,500 first notices, the health unit has received just over 300 immunization updates. Parents and guardians are urged to act now and avoid any disruptions to their child’s education.

Suspension notices will be sent March 17 regarding students who remain noncompliant under the legislation.

Students with missing immunization records will be suspended from school April 1 until records are updated.

“It’s important for parents and guardians to report their child’s immunization updates directly to the health unit,” said Marianne Rock, the health unit’s health protection division manager.

“We do not automatically receive this information from family healthcare providers, so it is the responsibility of parents

Great Guy: remembering Mr. Pritchard

It was a particularly cold Monday night.

The thermometer in the station at 100.9 Canoe FM showed minus 22 degree Celsius while the warm lights cast over a desk with various buttons and knobs.

On Monday nights, Penny RandallMowbray hosts a show titled Locally Sourced; a celebration of the talent and pride that comes from our corner of the world.

On this particularly cold Monday night, the show was all in the name of one person.

One person known by many as a teacher, an actor, a singer, a musician.

Launcelot “Guy” Pritchard. Known by most as simply Guy; he had a warm smile and an ease about him that made him approachable and likeable to all who crossed his path. He passed away at the age of 70, on Jan. 13.

And while news of his death spread across the community, with hundreds sharing their thoughts, memories, and stories they had with Guy, a few friends gathered together on a particularly cold Monday night at Canoe FM to celebrate him.

“We feel really privileged that we get to pay tribute to Guy Pritchard tonight on the show,” started Penny, as the dim sign in the window flickered red to signal she was on the air in the cozy studio. “We have some of his friends here now.”

One of these friends was musical colleague and performing partner, Jim Love. “We just want to remember the beauty that he brought into the world,” he started. “We thought we could do that by just coming together, and sharing a little music.”

As the evening got underway, more and more people trickled into the studio; their presence made known by the stomping of winter boots in the front hall; attempting to shake winter off at the door. Dave Bathe, Sean Pennylegion, Shannon Neville. Faces and names who at some point in their local lives, had crossed musical paths with Guy. Sean had brought an original CD from 2006, when he and Guy had joined forces in a rock band, calling themselves Serendipity. “It was one of the first tight, cool bands from that era,” said Jim Love, as they scoured the series of tunes on the album, showcasing the best of the best for listeners through the radio.

Guy’s distinct vocal range carried from the studio, into the homes of Haliburton County on that cold Monday night, while his friends reminisced and shared their stories for all to hear. “If Guy were here, he’d be laughing at this,” mused Jim Love, as the banter in the studio continued.

and guardians to ensure the health unit is informed of any updates.”

There are a number of means available to help parents comply with the update request.

The public health unit has an online immunization update portal at hkpr. on.ca/immunization.

Parents can phone the health unit at 1-866-888-4577 extension 1507 for guidance.

The health unit will be offering catchup immunization clinics for families without a healthcare provider.

The energy in that cozy studio was palpable; warm, inviting, welcoming. Just like Guy.

While his friends shared their stories on-air, others called in. At one point, Ian Tamblyn, a Canadian musician and friend of Guy’s, shared that he always saw him as a cross between Mark Twain, Kurt Vonnegut, and Randy Newman. Listeners and friends agreed to this description. Between his wealth of knowledge in the musical world, his wit, his sense of humour, and his beliefs, he was a friend to all.

“He had such a terrific voice,” said Sean Pennylegion, “it always just cut right through. We’re going to miss him.”

As the show aired, the comments began to flow online in celebration of Guy.

“Enjoyed the tribute show, and loved hearing the memories,” one Facebook user said.

The beauty of music, is that it lives on, long after someone passes. Guy’s passion

for the arts and the creative community of Haliburton County will be far from forgotten. The clear memories and powerful ballads passed down from one musical aficionado to the next.

And as I drove home from the cozy studio at 100.9 Canoe FM, I found myself humming one of Guy’s songs. A little warmth, on that particularly cold Monday night.

points of view

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Walls

WALLS, WALLS, everywhere walls.

That seems to be the area of expertise for Dysart’s council. Someone comes up with a suggestion that could help our community? A wall is put up.

Someone has a new idea? Wall. Someone has a thought that differs from their own? No problem, here’s a wall.

Nothing new, nothing against the grain, nothing different.

When Environment Haliburton’s Susan Hay approached council last week, offering insight, research, and a mindful energy towards building electric vehicle charging stations in the village of Haliburton, she was met with a wall.

Of course. It’s new, it’s against the grain, it’s different.

That means it will never fly with Dysart council.

Mayor Fearrey and Deputy Mayor McKechnie were adamantly opposed to the proposal, which would come at absolutely no cost to the community. They said all their “research” is pointing in the direction that EVs are on their way out.

Actually, a very quick Google search says quite the opposite. One in six cars sold in Canada last year was an electric vehicle, which is a 14.4 per cent increase in sales over the previous quarter. The numbers are on the rise, there’s no denying that.

Many folks turn to EVs because of their environmental impact, but beyond that, statistics clearly show that more people are driving them. That means more people would come into our community to support our economy while their vehicles are

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charging up. That means more business for our little bustling town. That means more money.

Seems pretty simple, no?

But Fearrey and McKechnie stood their ground. “100 per cent” against them.

Walls, walls, everywhere walls.

We only have one charging station in town. So if that’s clogged up, people will go elsewhere. And who could blame them? As a tourist town, we should be actively putting in the resources needed to accommodate the everchanging needs of our community.

You have to ask, does their adamant opposition to anything new or progressive come from a place of misunderstanding? Perhaps if they asked questions, dove deeper, or deferred to others who may know more, they may be more open to new things.

James Matthews wrote a story about the current wages of our council members in this paper. While I admit that they are not compensated for the amount of time they put into our community, perhaps this is an opportunity to re-evaluate what it may take to encourage some young blood to sit in positions of power.

People who are open to new, open to against the grain, open to different.

And while the current club has had their time to shine, it seems like the needs and wants of our community are steadily shifting, evolving, and growing into something different.

We need people who say yes instead of no, put change on the forefront of growth, and build pathways in the rubble of the many, many walls that have been put up over the years.

THETwo of a kind

FIRST thing you noticed about them was that they didn’t look like twins. While obviously related – same build, similar gestures –Rob and Rick were plainly brothers but nothing more. However once you got to know them, it was easy to see how much alike they were.

Having grown up in a rough-and-tumble neighbourhood, the brothers learned the importance of sticking together. When it came to dealing with bullies, Rob usually took the lead. He was slightly taller than Rick, with a longer reach that quickly made him the go-to defender in that quagmire of humanity known as the school yard.

Rick was different but no less effective when dealing with kids who liked to push around the little guys. He knew just the right words to cut an aggressor down to the cowardly know-nothing he or she was. While the pen might be mightier than the sword, Rick’s words could slice through a threat like a knife through soft butter.

And so they made their way through life knowing they could always count on each other.

Buying a small piece of property together in cottage country was the impetus to start thinking seriously about this shared dream. The more time they spent out of the city, the more the four of them realized they wanted to make a change. But it wasn’t going to be easy. While Rob wanted to jump in, Rick was more cautious. He told his brother they needed to do some research. Financing, location, suppliers were all important aspects of any decision. So they had waited until the timing felt right. Then once they committed to the enterprise, it was all-out for the four of them.

When they married their high-school sweethearts the twosome became a foursome. Friends were amazed that the two couples were able to spend so much time together without competition or disagreements shaking the relationships. But it was true. The four were best friends and supported the hopes and dreams of each other.

Rob was the first to get a job in retail, followed soon by Rick. Dealing with the public was something they both enjoyed and over the years they became quite adept at anticipating customer needs and how best to serve them. So it was inevitable they would end up co-owning their own business.

But it didn’t happen overnight. In fact it wasn’t until they both turned fifty that they decided it was time to take the plunge and open an outdoor sports store. This was something they had talked about for years. It had always been a hope and goal but when their wives had also got on board with the idea – well that sealed it.

They also had to replace their seasonal cottage with year-round homes. And so it felt like fate when two properties, side-byside, came on the market. It was ideal in so many ways. Sure the places needed a bit of work but as usual they helped each other through the renovations and repairs, ending up with two comfortable homes. There was a lot of back and forth between the two households and sometimes Rick joked that he wasn’t sure which house was his and which Rob’s.

The summers were very busy at the store and it was all hands on deck. The women did most of the counter work, totalling sales and dealing directly with customers. Rick enjoyed setting up the displays. He had a knack for making the merchandise look especially enticing. Being a ‘people person’ meant Rob’s strength was building relationships. He learned people’s names, was never too busy for a chat about politics or the weather and in fact sometimes his wife gave him ‘the eye’ which meant stop talking and start stocking.

Winter was a bit slower but between equipment for ice-fishing, skiing and hockey, they had no complaints. Their business was thriving and so were they. Yet to talk to them, they’d tell you the best part of their shared enterprise wasn’t the store. It was where they lived. To look out over the trees, and see the dawning sun or the sky awash with stars was what made it so complete. They only wished they had done it sooner.

points of view

Walk towards the light

THIS MORNING, I participated in a small way in a very civil and thoughtful Facebook discussion about whether it is wrong or right to boycott American products. The original poster, who is a person I respect, suggested that by boycotting American products we would be creating an us-versus-them mentality. He suggested this would be nationalistic and then pointed out that nationalism never solved anything.

I concur with the last part of that statement.

I do, however, disagree with the premise that boycotting US goods makes us nationalists. Canada is not a flag waving, braggadocious nation that is looking to isolate itself from the world. In fact, our country goes to great lengths to be good citizens of the world and to respect other nations and cultures. We are open to, rather than afraid of, diversity. We do not believe the world ends at our borders. Essentially, we are the furthest thing from nationalistic. Rather, we are a reasonable country reacting to an unfair threat by a currently unpredictable and bullying neighbouring state. Does this create an us-versusthem scenario? Absolutely. And so it should. We are not them.

Loon Tales

The overwhelming majority of Canadians are opposed to the tone and policies promoted by the current US regime. Most of us shake our heads whenever Trump opens his mouth. When we do watch news about our southern neighbours, we watch it in the same way we’d watch a train wreck – with disbelief and sorrow. We wonder how and why it happened and who the new casualties will be?

Well, it turns out we are one of them.

The current US regime has proven itself to be anti-science, anti-immigrant, anti-woman, anti-civil rights, anti-environment, anti-LBGTBQ, anti-media, astonishingly dishonest, arguably racist, and blatantly corrupt.

Apologists might say that’s none of our business.

Well then, how about this? They are making threat to and disrespecting our sovereignty. They are taking deliberate actions meant to bring our nation to its knees.

It’s sad and short-sighted really. We have fought with them, aided them, and given support in their darkest days. We have always had their back. And now, they are now putting a knife in ours.

All this is to say, I see no problem acknowledging that this is an us-versus-them scenario. They’ve already made that very clear.

Before I die, I’d like to be able to look back and believe I was on the right side of history. Opposing this jingoistic Trump administration– that will one day be an embarrassing footnote in US history – definitely places me there.

We Canadians rarely show our patriotism outside of sporting events. But, I believe, this is one of those rare times when we should.

Boycotting US goods is a small perhaps even inconsequential act of patriotism. But it sends a big message. It signals they are dealing with a proud and dignified nation. It’s an immediate and democratic way for all of us to stand up to the bully.

Will it make a difference? Who knows?

One of the things that was uttered in the aforementioned Facebook discussion was that we should try to shine a light into the darkness.

In my only response, I agreed. But to do that, I believe we should buy flashlights and lighting made in Canada or anywhere else in the world but the US. Hopefully, in doing so, that might shed a little bit of light on how we, as Canadians, feel.

pic of the past

This is a photo of Neale Woodcock, submitted by his granddaughter Alana Clayton. “He was a logger in Haliburton County and was approached by Pioneer Chainsaws to be photographed for one of their advertisement campaigns. We believe the photo to be taken in the early 1960s,” Clayton writes. Do you have a pic of the past to share? Send it to emily@haliburtonpress.com or bring it to 146 Highland Street in Haliburton.

Letters to the Editor

A thank you to local vets

To the Editor,

We would like to thank Dr. Asia Lemacho of the Haliburton Veterinary Services and the staff for their compassionate and caring manner on the recent loss of our dog, Penny. Our canine companion was a member of our family and a loving teacher and friend. She taught us the power of trust and friendship and was always there to

help soften life’s blows. Her life brought us joy for thirteen years and we are thankful for the time, her love and the memories that will last our lifetime. We appreciated the care and sensitivity from the Haliburton Veterinarian team who helped us through our final hours with our girl Pen.

Judy and Fred Phipps Haliburton

Community Coffee House focuses on addictions

Two members of the Haliburton and area community connected with Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous will be on hand at an upcoming Community Coffee House to be held Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. in the Schofield Room of the Haliburton Legion.

Our conversational guests plan to share some of their stories related to addiction, offering suggestions, where applicable, about what family members and friends can do if they are concerned about someone who may be suffering from addiction. They will also discuss the 12-step program as a road to recovery.

They will be preceded by music from wellknown local singer, songwriter and musician, Gord Kidd, accompanied by Rich Anton, who is also locally known as “The Harmonica Guy” and the host of CANOE-FM’s Buckslide Blues Cruise show.

This presentation follows on one last spring

titled A Community Response to the Drug Poisoning Crisis , and is part of a series of topics related to making our communities better. Previous presentations under this heading have included Finding One’s Own Power to be a source for change in our communities, T he Power of One related to the environment, Creating Places of Support in the field of Youth Mental Health and Social Media, and Supporting our Youth in Challenging Times . In this series, monthly presentations on a variety of topics are planned until June.

These gatherings are free of charge, open to all, with light refreshments available, and are hosted by the Baha’is of Haliburton to provide a place for safe and healthy discussion on issues of interest in the support and building of community.

Submitted

Domestic Violence in Haliburton County

Haliburton County is a beautiful place. It’s the home of year-round and seasonal residents alike. It covers over 4,000 square kilometers with a population density of five people per square kilometer. It’s the home of 5,580 women between the ages of 15 to 64; 2,870 women are over the age of 65. It’s these women and the subject of domestic violence I want to write about.

In this county, we can estimate that over 2,500 women have or are experiencing violence. Intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic violence (DV), sexual assault (SA), are prevalent forms of gender-based violence against women (GBVAW). It happens here.

GBVAW does not discriminate and can result in immediate and long-lasting health, social and economic consequences. It can happen in a marriage, common-law or dating relationship, at any time during a relationship and even after it has ended, whether or not people live together or are sexually intimate with one another.

There are lots of reasons that women in rural and remote communities are at increased risk of violence. For some it is the traditional beliefs about gender roles or the permanence of marriage (til death us do part). Some women feel shame, blame themselves or are blamed by others. Rural realities that contribute to increasing women’s risks are physical and social isolation, transportation challenges, communication barriers, economy, ecology and connection to the land, access to and familiarity with guns. Rates

of police-reported gender-based violence against women in rural areas are 75 per cent per cent higher than those of women in urban areas.

Gathering places like schools, faith communities, clinics, etc. can facilitate women’s access to information, resources, and referrals.

Women are at greatest risk from those they know and often live with and love. For 94 per cent of women who are killed by people they have lived with, being at home is the least safe place to be.

In Sept. 22, 2015, Carol Culleton, Anastasia Kuzyk and Nathalie Warmerdam were murdered in nearby Renfrew County by a man with whom each of the women had a past relationship. This tragic event highlighted the critical failures in the systems meant to protect victims of intimate partner violence. A coroner’s inquest to investigate the circumstances that led to three femicides on the same day resulted in a series of recommendations aimed at preventing future violence and improving protections for those at risk.

Eighty-six recommendations were presented, the first of which was for the Province of Ontario to declare intimate partner violence/domestic violence an epidemic. This past December, Haliburton County Council joined 95 other municipalities in the province to declare this epidemic. The recommendations from the Renfrew County Coroner’s Inquest will be, where appropriate, integrated within the County of Haliburton’s community Safety and Well-Being Plan.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING PROPOSED ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAW 2005-120 OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF DYSART ET AL

• DATE: Tuesday, February 25, 2025

• TIME: 9:05 AM

• LOCATION: Take notice that the public meeting for zoning by-law amendment will take place in Council Chambers in the Municipal Office 135 Maple Avenue, Haliburton, Ontario and in electronic format using Zoom. The meeting will be live streamed to YouTube.

Applications:

Lands of Haliburton Forest Biochar Ltd. - File No. D14-ZB-2024-006

Purpose and Effect: The proposed amending By-law would change the zoning from General Industrial -8 (M8) exception zone and Environmental Protection (EP) zone to General Industrial – XX (M-XX) exception zone and Environmental Protection Zone (EP) zone to allow an increase to the total combined ground floor area of all buildings from 2,800 sq. metres to a maximum of 4,354 sq. metres.

Location: 1088 Kennaway Road, legally described as Part Lot 33, Concession 5, in the Geographic Township of Dysart, now in the Municipality of Dysart et al.

Lands of Blair - File No. D14-ZB-2024-014

Purpose and Effect: The proposed amending By-law would change the zoning from Rural Type 1 (RU1) zone and General Industrial (M) zone to Rural Type 1 (RU1) zone, General Industrial (M) zone, Rural Type 1-XX (RU1-XX) exception zone and Environmental Protection (EP) zone to accurately delineate the Environmental Protection areas on the subject lands.

Location: 2572 Soyers Lake Road, legally described as Lots 1 to 3, Concession 7, in the Geographic Township of Dysart, now in the Municipality of Dysart et al.

For more information about electronic meetings and public participation in an electronic meeting, contact the Municipal Clerk at mbishop@dysartetal.ca.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MATTER INCLUDING INFORMATION ABOUT APPEAL RIGHTS: Contact the Planning and Land Information Department by appointment during regular office hours (8:30 A.M-4:30 P.M, Monday to Friday), or by contacting Kris Orsan, Manager of Planning at korsan@dysartetal.ca.

Dated at the Township of Dysart, this 4th day of February 2025.

Kris Orsan, CPT, Manager of Planning Planning and Land Information Municipality of Dysart et al

135 Maple Avenue, Haliburton, Ontario K0M 1S0

Phone: 705-457-1740 ext. 626

E-mail: korsan@dysartetal.ca

If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence, it’s not your fault, you are not alone, and there is help. To seek help for yourself or someone you know, call 705-286-1942.

Youth Unlimited to host bubble soccer event

THOMAS SMITH Staff Reporter

On Saturday, Jan. 18, Haliburton Highlands Youth Unlimited opened their Bridge Youth Centre, located at 2 Victoria Street. Youth Unlimited is a satellite of Kawartha Youth for Christ.

For 17 years, Youth Unlimited has run programs throughout Haliburton County, assisting youth to reach their full potential. The Bridge Youth Centre is an accessible space for all youths from any background.

Before moving into their new space, the Youth Unlimited team had an unforeseen expense of $4,000 to get a new water system in order to offer cooking and baking classes. Despite acquiring the space in September of 2024, they officially opened the space to the public on Friday, Jan. 24. The Bridge Youth Centre includes a kitchen, a room with table hockey and a piano, and a room for playing video games.

Mental health is a huge issue for youth in Haliburton County. By providing a space for youth to go that is not home or school, the youth have a safe and welcoming space to make connections, be active, and have fun. Haliburton Highlands Youth Unlimited also plans on using their Bridge Youth Centre for baking nights and taco nights, providing youth with a healthy and nutritious meal, while teaching them about important life skills like cooking. With the gymnasium at the high school, they are also able to incorporate gym nights every month. Thanks to donations from community members, the Bridge Youth Centre also has a variety of sports equipment for youth to use.

“It is our belief that all youth deserve

equal opportunities to reach their full potential. It’s our desire that the Bridge provides local youth a positive community, caring mentors and opportunities to grow in leadership and purpose. We will be doing this by providing after school programming and drop ins and monthly gym nights,” said Leanne Young, satellite director for YFC Haliburton Highlands. “We see the hope and potential in every young person and we are excited to see the youth here in Haliburton have the equal opportunities to grow in it.“

Young says that some youth have friends as far as Fort Irwin and living in Haliburton without a car means they will not see their friend. The Bridge Youth Centre acts as a third place for them to meet.

Currently, the Youth Unlimited team is working towards getting a late evening bus for their participants.

The Bridge Youth Centre offers afterschool drop-in programs on Mondays for youth in Grade 4 to Grade 6 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and drop-in programs for students in Grade 9 to 12 on Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

In the past, Youth Unlimited has offered bubble soccer to youth.

“They love it,” said Young. “They beg for it to come back.”

Youth Unlimited will be hosting a bubble soccer event on Friday, Feb. 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the high school gymnasium. Bubble soccer involves participants wearing a large torus bubble around themselves while kicking a soccer ball and getting goals in the opposing team’s net. The fee for participation is $20 and a waiver must be signed before a youth can participate. For those interested, please contact haliburton@youthunlimitedkaw.com.

Telling our Stories

Haida Gwaii (formerly Queen Charlotte Islands) is an ideal destination to experience the rugged and remote wilderness that Northern British Columbia is known for. It is also the ancestral territory of the Haida Nation. The Speakers Series invites you to join local adventurers Sheila Ziman, Rob Kelly and Isabel Buttler on Wednesday, Feb. 12 as they share their presentation, “ Tales From Haida Gwaii: Totems, Tides And Time.”

Sheila visited Haida Gwaii in May 2024. A 1,000-year-old Sitka Spruce, a deep green mossy rainforest and a tufted puffin inspired her to share her impressions of this special area.

Rob and Isabel have collectively spent 18 seasons on some of the most remote islands of the archipelago, camping among the majestic trees of the coastal rainforest, collecting data on nesting sea-

birds, songbirds, and plant communities. They will share some of their observations while working on projects aimed at understanding the island’s fauna and flora.

The Speakers Series, a member of the Haliburton County Community Cooperative, takes place on the second Wednesday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Haliburton Highlands Outdoor Association Fish Hatchery, 6712 Gelert Road. Admission is $15/person payable at the door or on line at www.tellingourstories. company.site.

As seating is limited, pre-registration is highly recommended. To obtain tickets, contact Barrie Martin at 705-457-7557 or by email at barrieinthehighlands@gmail. com.

Submitted

11. River in Georgia and Alabama

13. Water in the solid state

14. Ancient Greek sophist

15. Having a strong sharp smell or taste

16. Fleece

17. Writer/actress Dunham

18. Behave in a way that belittles

20. Comedienne Gasteyer

21. Zoroastrian concept of holy fire

22. Conceits

25. Slowed down

30. Nourishment

31. Midway between east and southeast

32. Fights

33. Comedienne Tyler

38. Standing operating procedure

41. Locks

43. Old

45. Song sung to one’s lover

47. Whale ship captain

49. Moved quickly on foot

50. Volcanic craters

55. Large musical instrument

56. Liquefied natural gas

57. Ethiopian town

59. Not closed

60. A team’s best pitcher

61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation

62. Disfigure

63. Prefix denoting “in a”

64. Sleep

CLUES DOWN

1. S. American plant 2. Soul and calypso song 3. Fruit of the service tree

A helping hand

Waller, the President of Branch 129 Haliburton Legion, presented a cheque to SIRCH for their Gifts from the Heart campaign. The local Legion has made a diligent effort to give back to the community wherever they can. /photo submitted

4. Continent

5. Albania’s capital

6. Poisonous plant

7. Argues

8. Assists

9. Town in Galilee

10. Russian leader

12. Promotional materials

14. Wings

19. Not odd

23. Expression of creativity

24. Conceptualize

25. A digital tape recording of sound

26. PeytonÕs little brother

27. Cost, insurance and freight (abbr.)

28. Difference in potential

29. Owner

34. I (German)

35. Chinese conception of poetry

36. The world of the dead

37. Sign language

39. Coincide

40. Religious observance

41. Confined condition (abbr.)

42. Polite interruption sound

44. Texas ballplayer

45. Type of sword

46. Abba __, Israeli politician

47. Basic unit of a chemical element

48. Native American people in California

51. Swiss river

52. Hebrew calendar month

53. Easily swindled person

54. One point south of southwest

58. Small island (British)

Answers on page 13

Hal High sports

Poppy Campaign a success

Thank you to everyone that volunteered with our campaign this year. The community stepped up and made this year’s campaign a successful one. To everyone who worked behind-the-scenes, you were a tremendous help in lessening the workload. To all those willing to go out canvassing regardless of the weather, thank you. You are the face the public sees, and you represented our Legion with great integrity. Thank you to the over 100 businesses that allowed us to place our poppy boxes at their location. Thank you to the 11 businesses that permitted us to canvas out front. The last weekend was helped along by Canoe FM announcing our need for help. It is truly a humbling experience to see how much the community supported our veterans by helping to support

our Poppy Campaign. Everyone should be proud of the way this community volunteered and showed their respect for those who fought for our freedom. We shall remember them.

Submitted by Christina Brigg, Poppy Chair

Wrestle mania

While many outdoor sports are put on pause until warmer weather resumes, Hal High students are making the most of being indoors, including tackling their wrestling season with a gusto. Pictured, coach Paul Klose works with the team on strategy, while students practice after school. /TIM YANO staff photographer

Municipality of Dysart et al Tenders

The Municipality of Dysart et al invites vendors to submit bids for any or all tenders:

• 2025-PW-01 Collection, Hauling & Processing of Non-Eligible Sources of Blue Box Materials

(Closes March 7, 2025 at 10 a.m.)

• 2025-PW-04 Road Resurfacing (Closes February 17, 2025 at 12 p.m.)

• 2025-PW-05 Supply of Dust Suppressant (Closes February 17, 2025 at 12 p.m.)

• 2025-PW-06 Supply of Culverts (Closes February 17, 2025 at 12 p.m.)

Register at no cost, view all bids, and submit your bid online at dysartetal.bidsandtenders.ca

Printed or emailed submissions are not accepted

Review our “how-to” guide at www.dysartetal.ca/bidshowto

Notice of Sewage Service Rates By-Law Amendments

Dysart et al Council, at their March 25, 2025 meeting, will be considering changes to By-Law 2024-22, being a by-law to impose fees and charges for the provision of Communal Sewage Services. This amendment will reflect the following increases:

• ERU effective January 1, 2025; and

• Metered sewage rate April 1, 2025.

Notice of Comprehensive Fee By-Law Amendments

Dysart et al Council, at their February 25, 2025 meeting, will be considering changes to By-Law 2024-57, being a by-law to impose fees and charges. This amendment will reflect the following fee changes:

1. An increase in ice rental fees for the A.J. LaRue Arena;

2. An increase in planning fees for zoning by-law amendment applications, requests to waive site plan control, minor variance applications, road closing applications, zoning and building compliance letters and printing services; and

3. An administrative update to make the Haliburton County Farmers’ Market Association’s use of Head Lake Park location for the farmer’s market a recurring annual fee for future markets (Currently listed as 2024 only).

Further information on these fee changes will be available on https://www.dysartetal.ca/

Notice of Procedural By-Law Amendments

As per Policy No. 24 – Public Notice Policy, notice is hereby being provided that Dysart et al Council, at their regular meeting to be held on February 25, 2025, will be amending the Procedural By-Law to incorporate the creation of a Personnel and Administration Committee.

Mallory Bishop, Municipal Clerk

Punt. Puck. Parlay?

Pure, Unpasteurized Honey. Clover, Golden, Liquid and Creamed. Pure honey helps with allergies. Call Tom for details. 2801 Blairhampton Road. 705-286-3628

We

Stained Glass Workshops. From beginner up. Registration open now. Learn the art of stained glass. Call Tom for details. 705-286-3628 COMING EVENTS 540

For the complete details, please visit our website at www.algonquinhighlands.ca

The Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) currently has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and experienced individual to join the team!

MAINTENANCE ATTENDANT

COMPENSATION: $25.78/hr - $27.93/hr (Part-time Permanent)

If you are interested in joining the HHHS team for the above position, please visit www.hhhs.ca/about/careers for more details. Township of Algonquin

Please submit your resume and cover letter by 3:00 p.m. on Friday February 14, 2025

Dawn Mugford-Guay, Human

Township of Algonquin

1123 North Shore Road Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1S0

Email: dmugfordguay@algonquinhighlands.ca

Repairs , Call or Text Doug at 416-889-8534

Mike A. omson General Contracting Roo ng - GaragesCarpentry & Repairs Call Today! 705 457-6365

WANTED

Preferably from before 1970

Help revive our Pic of the Past section by sending in your pictures. Bring them in to the Echo o ce at 146 Highland Street or email them to emily@haliburtonpress.com with dates and any other information.

This Position is responsible for the preventative maintenance routines, routine inspections of key operating systems (Fire System, Diesel Fire Pump, Back Up Generator, etc.), and repairing and maintaining equipment, buildings, and a safe, healthy and reliable environment. To achieve this, the Maintenance Attendant routinely inspects and diagnoses problems, determines and coordinates solutions, frequently checks drawings, repair manuals, parts catalogs and Suppliers, and predictively replaces or fixes worn or broken parts, where necessary, or makes adjustments to correct malfunctioning equipment.

The Corporation of the County of Haliburton Requires a Truck Driver/Equipment Operator

Truck Driver/Equipment Operators are responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment such as a trucks, backhoes, loaders, and wing plows. This position is responsible for maintaining roads, ditching, excavating culverts, and brushing.

Successful applicants will possess an DZ/AZ licence and have experience operating heavy equipment. This position requires an ability to work on-call hours and respond to short notice call ins, as well as good judgment and communication skills. The hourly rate for this unionized CUPE position is $29.17. This position includes participation in the OMERS defined benefit pension program and employer paid extended health benefits.

Visit our website at www.haliburtoncounty.ca/careers for a more detailed posting and job description.

Please forward your resume to shume@haliburtoncounty.ca no later than February 14, 2025, at 4:30pm.

We thank all who apply for this position; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The County of Haliburton is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodation can be provided in all steps of the hiring process, please contact Human Resources for further details.

In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the information gathered will be used solely for the purpose of job selection.

Will You Join the Board of the Minden Community Food Centre?

The Minden Community Food Centre, your local charity working to reduce food insecurity for those in need, is seeking a new volunteer to join our Board of Directors.

We are looking for a compassionate person with strong communication skills and a supportive team player to help us achieve our mandate to provide supplemental healthy foods for our clients living in Minden Hills.

We are looking for an individual to assume the position of Recording Secretary on the Board. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organizational skills to manage records, the ability to take accurate notes at our monthly meetings, and familiarity with Microsoft Word.

If you have the skills, time, and experience, we would like to hear from you by February 15, 2025. Please contact us by e-mail and tell us about your interest in the position of Recording Secretary and your background, skill set, and experience.

Send your e-mail to mcfc.BoardMembers@gmail.com

Job Title: Administrative Assistant Location:

Job Type: Full-time

About Us: Hudson Henderson Insurance Brokers is a forward-thinking insurance firm committed to providing unparalleled service and innovative solutions to our clients.

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as an Administrative Assistant.

Key Responsibilities:

- Assist licensed insurance brokers in preparing quotes and policy proposals for clients.

- Perform administrative tasks such as data entry, filing, and maintaining client records.

- Provide exceptional customer service by addressing client inquiries and processing policy changes.

- Collaborate with the sales team to identify new business opportunities and follow up on leads.

- Support the processing of insurance applications and claims.

- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes in insurance regulations.

Qualifications:

- High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or certifications in Insurance or a related field is a plus.

- Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

- Excellent communication and customer service skills.

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

- Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.

- Prior experience in the insurance industry or a related field is preferred but not required.

Benefits:

- Competitive salary

- Benefit Options

- Paid time off and holidays.

- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

How to Apply: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position to info@hudsonhenderson.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Haliburton Echo

John Mason Resident of Haliburton

John Andrew Mason, lovingly known as Andy, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025. At the wonderful age of 71, he enjoyed many memorable years on Haliburton Lake. Andy lived a life full of humor, warmth, and unforgettable moments.

Andy is survived by his loving wife, Sue Mason; his daughters, Julie (Mike) and Lori (Gray) and his cherished grandchildren, Audrey and Beau. His family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

A man of many passions, Andy found joy in golf, horseshoes, curling, fishing, and snowmobiling. He had a deep appreciation for classic rock ‘n’ roll and could often be found enjoying sports with his close-knit group of friends. Known for his sharp wit and sarcastic humor,

Andy’s big personality left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His knowledge and support were a source of strength to those around him.

Andy’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and camaraderie.

Mary Pearsell (nee Formica)

Resident of Haliburton

It is with hearts full of fond memories and immense gratitude that we say goodbye to our Mom, Gram, & Nonna. After a day surrounded by family, during peaceful sleep, in the presence of caring nursing home staff, she left us on January 27, 2025, at Hyland Crest Long-Term Care in her 95th year. She was born in a Haliburton (Guilford Township) lumber camp on March 1, 1930. Beloved wife of the late Gordon Pearsell (m. 1950). Loving Mom of Deeno (Charlene) and Marina Maughan (Miles). Cherished Gram of Abbey Saunders (Charlie), Lesley Broadworth (Daryl), and Reuben Maughan. Proud Nonna of Connor Broadworth. Predeceased by her husband Gordon Pearsell (2015) and by her Italian immigrant parents Eugenio (1968) and Vittoria (Biagi) Formica (1999). Lovingly remembered by her sisters Gladys (Howard Roberts, predeceased) and Deena (Joseph MacCauley, predeceased). Fondly remembered by nephews, nieces, family, and friends. Mary was an original parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, where she was a dedicated, long-term volunteer. Mary was educated at Shaw’s Business College, Toronto; one of the first women in her family to become a working professional.

Rosary, Visitation & Mass of Christian Burial

Celebration

Of Life

He had many famous sayings, but this one is his classic. “Never criticize, or minimize, the efforts of the other guys.” He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in his life. May the memories of Andy bring comfort to those who knew and loved him. www.communityfuneralhomes.com

A Celebration of Andy’s life will take place at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations to the Haliburton Highlands Health Services Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the HALIBURTON COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME 13523 Hwy. #118, Haliburton, Ontario (705) 457-9209.

In Loving Memory of Joan Beverley Johnston

March 6, 1932 - January 31, 2025

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, Joan Johnston, who was taken from us on January 31, 2025.

She brought immeasurable joy and light into our lives in her 92 years. e depth of love and happiness she shared will forever remain in our hearts.

Joan was married to James (Jim) Johnston (d.2000) for a wonderful 47 years and retired to their cottage in Haliburton in 1986. Joan and Jim had four children: Jamie (Gord) Woodman, Garth (Laura) Johnston, Gregory (d. 2012) (Elizabeth) Johnston and Glen Johnston (d. 2011). Five grandchildren: Kyle (Leigh) Woodman, Megan Woodman, Darren (Jestene) Johnston, Julie (Glen) Mager and Richard Johnston. Seven great grandchildren: Natalie, Blake, AJ, Mack, Tylee, Skye and Rory. Dear longtime friend of Dorothy Ball, also loved by many nieces, nephews and all whose lives she touched.

e family would like to thank the sta of Highland Wood for their kindness and care.

In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Donations to the Highland Wood Residents Council or Haliburton Highlands Health Services Foundation appreciated and can be arranged through the Gordon A. Monk Funeral Home Ltd., P.O. Box 427, Minden, Ontario K0M 2K0. www.gordonmonkfuneralhome.com

www.communityfuneralhomes.com

Friends & relatives were invited to call at the HALIBURTON COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME 13523 Hwy. #118, Haliburton, Ontario (705) 457-9209 on Thursday afternoon, January 30, 2025 for Rosary at 2 p.m., followed by visitation from 3 – 5 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial took place at ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 27 Victoria Street Haliburton, Ontario on Friday morning, January 31, 2025 at 12 o’clock (Noon). Spring Interment St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, donations to St. Anthony Cemetery Fund or SIRCH Community Services would be appreciated by the family.

Gabrielle Gervais (nee Courtemanche)

The passing of a holy soul – never to be forgotten Loving sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and greatgrandmother.

Gabrielle “Gay” Alma Gervais, previously Gabrielle Courtemanche, passed away peacefully in Extendicare, Haliburton, Ontario, on the evening of January 8, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Sudbury, Ontario, she was the daughter of Aldea Richer and Jean-Baptiste Courtemanche, and sister of Maurice, Gilberpe “Jill”, Laurette, and others just to name a few. Gabrielle and some of her siblings were fostered by Marie, who loved and cared for them all deeply.

Gabrielle went to the University of Ottawa to become a school teacher. She was strong-willed, respected by her peers, and a devoted Catholic. So devoted that, she almost became a nun -but before she took her final vows, Raymond Hector Gervais had swept her off her feet and proposed to her in a Catholic church. They married on July 18, 1959, in Sudbury, as witnessed by Edmond Gervais and Jean-Baptiste Courtemanche. Together they built a life in Sudbury and then moved to Toronto, before finally settling their roots in Haliburton. They welcomed daughters Dianne, Helene, and son Raymond.

Gabrielle’s love was never-ending and knew no limits. She helped foster many children over the years while raising their own. Sometimes, there were as many as 13 mouths to feed at a time. Everyone would sit around the big kitchen table and await a feast of homecooked food and even enjoyed a family trip to Florida with Ray and Gabrielle paying out of pocket and squeezing 13 kids in a Caravan. Even if at times that child would step out of line, Gabrielle would make sure each and every child felt her love.

In her retired years living in Haliburton County, she remained an active member of the community. Gabrielle would volunteer at the Lily Ann Thrift Store, continue to spread the word of God to children learning the Bible and assist her husband with cleaning and operating the Silver Maple Motel. When she had time to herself, she enjoyed reading, playing Solitaire or Mahjong on the computer, or watching TV with her dog. She also enjoyed the company spent with her grandkids, John (Audrey), Sarah (Jeff), Raymond, and Arianne (Riley), and great-grandkids Emma-Rose, Erin, Sophia, Chloe, and Brayden.

Gabrielle Gervais had lived a full life surrounded by people who loved her. She had a kind, loving heart. She will be missed greatly.

Visitation & Funeral Mass

Friends were invited to call at ST. ANTHONY’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 27 Victoria St, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 on Monday, January 13th, 2025, for a Funeral Mass beginning at noon (Visitation one hour prior). As an expression of sympathy, donations in Gay’s memory can be made to Haliburton 4C’s - Lily Ann Thrift Store or to St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the HALIBURTON COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME 13523 Hwy #118 Haliburton, Ontario K0M 1S0 705-457-9209.

www.communityfuneralhomes.com