Issue 9 2022 March 9 NG Times

WINTER

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Reaching by direct mail 9,500 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca

The Voice of North Grenville

Vol. 10 No. 9

every one

March 9, 2022

Lifetime Achievement Award for Cheryl Mackie

24-Hour Emergency Service

deserves a place to call home Habitat for Humanity's Kemptville ReStore is a social enterprise building affordable homes right here in our community!

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Brigadoon owner Cheryl Mackie (right), with granddaughter Stephanie Mackie (left). In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Leeds Grenville Small Business Centre is pleased to announce their Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Cheryl Mackie of Oxford Mills. Cheryl received this award during our virtual event on Tuesday, March 8. The Leeds Grenville Small Business Centre Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize a woman who has been in business for many years, and to celebrate her achievements as a business leader in our community. We have awarded nine LAA prior to this one. Cheryl Mackie is the

owner of The Brigadoon Restaurant. Cheryl opened the restaurant in Oxford Mills 32 years ago! She is strong, courageous, tenacious, gracious, generous, kind, and is a loyal community supporter. Cheryl immigrated to Canada from England when she was 17. She has worked in hospitality most of her life in management roles for various Ottawa restaurants. She had an eye on becoming independent and she made that happen through hard work and tenacity. Along with her partner at the time, she started the hunt to purchase a building for her own British style eatery.

After much research and showings, the building at 9 Bridge St, Oxford Mills, was the one! Cheryl and family and friends began renovations right away. With lots of elbow grease, their vision for The Brigadoon came to fruition. They provide fine dining in one of Ontario's finest heritage buildings. They offer lunch, dinner, Sunday roast lunch, afternoon tea, and many themed evenings. Cheryl has always been a community supporter. She has donated to the local library, sponsored curling teams and other sports teams, and she has given to the Kemptville Youth Centre, plus many,

many more causes. Another descriptive word would be resilience. Along with her granddaughter, Stephanie, who now helps Cheryl run The Brigadoon, they continued to provide service to their community through the pandemic in the form of take out. They are looking forward to serving their customers in person again moving forward. Congratulations to Cheryl on 32 years of success! It is an impressive milestone, and we appreciate all of her hard work and dedication to her community, to her business and to her family.

International

Woman’s Day

2022

Saluting our business women

FREE MIRROR EVENT

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613.258.9333

How to get ahead? The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

A century of progress Wondering if you can still retire? Are your investments performing as they should? Can you pay for your child’s schooling?

Make your money work harder.

Samantha Rivet-Stevenson, PFP Financial Planner, Investment & Retirement Planning samantha.rivet-stevenson@rbc.com

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

Tel: 613-258-4877 Cell: 613-816-9697

decision on 18 October, 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.

#BreakTheBias

Grahame’s Bakery would like to recognize

Rachel Davies

on International Women’s Day 2022 We have been blessed to have her on our team since 2013, she is a hard working young lady who wears her heart on her sleeve. With Rachel at Grahame’s, it has allowed Debbie to step back from the business to pursue her new role as a Councillor in North Grenville. Rachel greets customers daily while working with Rick and Wesley. She is also our cake decorating expert. She also finds time to volunteer with the MET youth group and Restoring Hope Homeless Youth Shelter.

115 Clotheir St., E., Kemptville 613.258.2317 www.grahamesbakery.com

Dr. C.L. Eamon Optometrist

SEE

and be

SEEN!

www.drcleamon.com 212 Van Buren St. 613.258.7438 March 9, 2022

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Guest Editorial

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

by Marguerite Boyer I grew up on a farm where my mother raised six children on her own, including four girls who grew up to become very strong women. My mother had the knowledge to recognize each one of our talents and encouraged us to pursue fields that matched our strengths and interests. My own strength was my art. In my teens, when I was failing in the academic world, she found an art school for me in Ottawa which meant hours of travelling from our farm to the city. I was able to thrive there

for the next three years. My life has been a rocky one, not always easy, but somehow, with the support of my mother and sisters, I made it through and now here I am, a woman of 65, running my own business (with of course the help of Pat Jessop, another very strong woman and the person who keeps this paper together weekly), and enjoying the community I live in. As a woman, I too struggled with being a single mother. I was lucky that I had help during difficult times, but others were not so lucky. I have come to admire the women

in my community, young and old, for the generosity I have seen them display for these past two COVID years. One woman, a centenarian who had been through the second World War and the bombing of England, said “we got through the war, we can get through this”. She was referring to the isolation that many seniors went through at the Bayfield Retirement Residence and the consequences for them. It’s been incredibly hard on our seniors. The women business operators in North Grenville and North Dundas suffered the stresses of not knowing when they could open, reopen, the extent to which they could operate, and whether their businesses would ultimately survive. These past two years have taught me so much on the resilience of the many women I have been in contact with. I witnessed the efforts of our female Mayor, another solo mother with children, and her dedication to the community, spending the last two years out on the streets meeting with people, discussing their challenges with them and helping them to identify and implement solutions. So

Naomi’s Family Resource Centre

by Deborah Thomson, CEO Naomi’s Family Resource Centre is a stage one woman’s shelter located in Winchester, and serves women and children fleeing violence and abuse in SD&G counties, as well as those from the Leeds and Grenville area, and the greater Ottawa area. Naomi’s House, as some would call it, has been supporting women and families who are actively seeking a change in their cir-

March 9, 2022

cumstances since 1987. Violence and abuse are defined many ways, and I know that, when we hear those words, we conjure up pictures in our minds about what it looks like. The World Health Organization defines Violence against women as a major public and clinical health problem, and a violation of women's human rights, particularly intimate partner violence and sexual violence. It is rooted in and perpetuates gender inequalities. Globally, 1 in 3 women experience physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime, mostly by an intimate partner. This is a stark reminder of the scale of gender inequality and discrimination against women.

Women who decide to make the change from a life of violence or abuse, no matter where it stems from, are courageous. Often, women may plan an escape with their children at a time when opportunity arises, and they go! They go fast and don’t look back. They are fearful and unsure of what the next few days or weeks will bring. So many questions, fearful to fail. Perhaps they attempted to leave before but, for whatever reason, couldn’t do it. Fearful of how they will provide for themselves and the kids. Fearful of what life will look like. Years ago, our communities got together and built a refuge, a safe place for women and children to go to, to breathe, to collect themselves and not have to constantly

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many women I talked to felt the stress, from almost every age group I came in contact with. Shelters for women will tell you that for many women who try to leave an abusive partner, it can take multiple attempts before they are successful. This is extremely frustrating for family members and friends who want to help them. But in the end, it is often very patient women who help these women to develop the confidence to eventually cut the ties. It took some hard personal lessons of my own to try and understand these women. When I left my first relationship, there was no looking back. My eldest sister allowed me two weeks of grief and then pushed me to move on. As I said, the women in my family are very strong. So for me, it has been hard to understand why it takes so many tries for some women. But I did have incredible support and they need and deserve it as well. I have been so inspired by all of the amazing women I have encountered over the last two years, that I was compelled to write and illustrate a children’s book featuring the different women of the area

from a young girl’s perspective: you can be anything that you want to be, you just have to be able to discover your potential. Women such as my mother and the women of this area have helped me to achieve this. I have started on my second children’s book now, due to the encouragement of so many women who surround me. All the proceeds for these books

will be donated to Naomi’s Family Resource Centre in Winchester, in order to support financially what I can’t do physically. My thanks to all you women out there, including my mother, for the encouragement and inspiration in my own life.

worry about another vulgar word hurled at them, another screaming session, another blow to the body in front of the kids …and we continue to maintain that place of refuge to this day. Over the years, Naomi’s has provided a safety net to thousands of people, (we serve, on average, 100 women and 50 children annually). I sometimes reflect on why we still continue to see such pain in our society when, in many ways, we are more educated, we talk about women’s issues more broadly and early in our school years. We talk about the ‘right’ way to speak or to act, we define what is “inappropriate” all the time. There are social service agencies, groups, congregations, internet, literature, courses,

lived experience – all there to aid us in learning early to avoid repeating the cycle, or for that matter, getting into the cycle in the first place. So why does violence against women still happen? Why do 33% of all women in the world experience physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime? There is no one definitive answer. It is highly complex and different for each person. International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated in the month of March since 1909, became an annual event in 2010, and seeks to remind us of how we can better our society by learning more, become advocates for those who are vulnerable, address societal change, and be a catalyst with local, provincial, and federal policy makers.

The IWD theme for 2022 is #Break the Bias. We are asked to consider the following: - Imagine a gender equal world. - A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. - A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. - A world where difference is valued and celebrated. - Together we can forge women's equality. Naomi’s Family Resource Centre (www.naomiscentre. ca) is active in our community, believes in partnerships, realizes that we cannot do this work alone, and invites you, the reader, to spend a few moments learning about how we can collectively #BreakTheBias.

Have you picked up your copy yet? Available at the B&H Grocer, at the reasonable price of just $15. Proceeds will go to Naomi's Family Resource Cdntre

Written & Illustrated by Maggie Boyer

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Senior Times

The Voice of North Grenville

A Study in Active Senior Living: SCS Welcomes Master’s Student Megan Clumpus Seniors’ Community Services is pleased to welcome Megan Clumpus, a University of Victoria’s Masters of Public Health Candidate. Megan joined us in February to fulfill her practicum, with a focus on analysing and improving our exercise programs. In 2021 we provided 288 exercise classes, and introduced cardio drumming and seniors’ yoga. A dedicated exercise program for older adults, along with the option for additional supports, is a vital part of living confidently and independently – and keeping fit feels great! Megan has been working within policy and regulation with Health Canada for close to 6 years, and has previous experience working with the senior population in a professional capacity. Her work includes studying under both a recreational therapist and physical therapist, and

extensive volunteer experience running fitness classes, games, and one-on-one visits. “I am incredibly passionate about public health, especially how it relates to health equity and health promotion within the community and the aging population” Megan’s practicum includes two pieces of work: A literature review of physical activity interventions for older adults, aged 65 years and older, that are intended to bring attention to fall prevention, and identifying the evidence gaps that require further research. This second piece will highlight the current state of practice, and provide insight into the requirements to receive Senior Active Living Centre (SALC) designation and respective funding from the Government of Ontario. This study will not only

assist SCS to grow our exercise programs to meet the needs of older adults in our community, but it will increase opportunities for vital funding. SCS is very fortunate in having this collaboration with Megan that will assist us in developing and facilitating programs that will support health and wellness for senior in our community. It is never too late to bring movement and strength into your daily life! The Story of Seniors’ Centre Without Walls: The SCS monthly calendar is full of opportunities that benefit the unique needs of older adults who are living independently in our community. This can mean providing access to specialized exercise programs, transportation and nutritional meals, and programs designed for important social interaction and con-

How can we help?

Footcare

Transportation

and we can provide all the information. All you need is a phone and a comfy chair, just leave the rest to us! For information on our weekly virtual and in-person exercise programs, or SCWW, please visit give us a call at 613-258-3203, or email hello@seniorscs.ca. We look forward to hearing from you!

Social and Recreation Volunteer Donate

Live WELL at home and in your community!

www.seniorscs.ca

Walls became a social hub for seniors in our community. Twice a week, familiar voices meet on a group call for trivia, stories, music, special guests, or some coffee talk. There is always an abundance of laughter and warmth, and the opportunity to create a space for human connection. If you, or someone you know, would like to join our fun group, please reach out

Exercise Programs

Meals on Wheels

Referrals

nection. SCWW is a group telephone-based program that connects people to weekly social activities and welcoming voices. As we know, social isolation and feeling left behind can lead to a myriad of health issues with a direct impact on seniors, especially during the challenge of the last two years. With support from the Older Adult Centres’ Association of Ontario (OACAO), Seniors’ Centre Without

Get Involved!

Telephone Assurance Friendly Visiting

Megan Clumpus (and Beau)

613-258-3203

Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.

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215 Van Buren Street, Kemptville 613.258.7462 jansenlaw.com

Registered Charity BN 118979111RR0001

Real Estate - Wills & Estates - Family Law - Corporate

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The Rideau Glen Golf Club is looking for club house staff & outside workers for the upcoming season. Smart Serve required for club house staff and experience with equipment preferred for outside workers . Students considered with right qualifications Send resume to therideauglen@gmail.com

March 9, 2022

4

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

CEPEO and community help expand NGPL French collection

by Rachel Brown, CEO, NGPL In honour of World Book Day, March 3, the North Grenville Public Library is pleased to announce that it has been able to significantly expand its French book collection this past year, due to the generosity of community

partners, community members, and our Friends of the Library group. The Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario (CEPEO, our French public school board) awarded the North Grenville Public Library a grant, making it possible for the library to

Grocer and Canadian Tire Kemptville. The Friends also conducted a successful English Wish Tree adopt-a-book initiative to add or replace much loved classic books for children and youth. We are so grateful for our community partners, community members and Friend’s group for helping to create a strong and vibrant French collection at the North Grenville Public Library. A special thank you as well to our French Library Services Coordinator, Kathy Moss.

purchase approximately 150 French books for children and youth. The collection improvement is focused on books that respond to the growing needs of the community, including building the young adult collection, adding more graphic novels, and adding more picture books about diversity. The Friends of the Library’s l’Arbre des souhaits adopt-a-book initiative last fall was a big success, with all French book titles being adopted by community members, and additional ones being ordered using donations from corporate sponsors Jonsson's Your Independent

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Don’t let huts or Why You Should Care hockey nets go down by Pat Evans, the development of the Smiths Parkinson’s Advocate Falls Health and Community with the ice April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Our health care system is experiencing significant pressures due to chronic underfunding, an aging population, and, of course, Covid. Unless there are major changes, it will likely only get worse. Neurological diseases are now the leading cause of disability in the world, and the unprecedented increase in the number of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) surpasses even those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. And PD is under-diagnosed. A study published in 2021 in the journal, Frontiers of Public Health, compared statistics from 240 countries. It reported that, because of increasing prevalence and prolonged life expectancy, costs associated with having a diagnosis of PD will increase at an unprecedented rate (and Canada and the United States are among the countries at the top of the list.) The study concluded that current approaches were not going to help contain costs. It recommended the implementation of strategies promoting more wholistic care and promotion of healthy lifestyles. This would mean a multi-disciplinary approach to Parkinson’s, rare in this country, and yet recognized as the most effective. That model of providing health care has long been promoted by Community Health Centres in Ontario. For five years, Rideau Community Health Services (RCHS), a Community Health Centre serving Lanark Leeds and Grenville, has been actively planning and advocating for March 9, 2022

Hub. RCHS is clear that this hub would not only result in better health outcomes, but would also improve service delivery. It would be an integrated space, approximately 30,000 to 40,000 square feet, not only bringing together health, community, and social agencies, but also house recreational space, a community garden, and community kitchen. Currently, the project is awaiting funding approval for a planning grant from the Ontario government. A few weeks ago, the Smiths Falls Town Council Committee of the Whole unanimously supported moving forward with exploring the availability of municipal land for such a project. As an advocate and a person with Parkinson’s, I look forward to the day when there is an integrated model of care for people with Parkinson’s, saving health dollars and improving quality of life.

• • • •

• • • • •

Vehicle repairs Class “A” Mechanic Sale of Quality PreOwned Vehicles Flat Bed Tow Truck

Brakes Suspension Tire Sales Air Conditioning Alignments

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County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario

access your belongings! It is an offence under the Public Lands Act to leave your ice hut out after ice break up, even if that occurs before the removal deadline. So take some time this week to collect your belongings, dispose of your garbage and dismantle any structures you’ve built on the ice. Protect and respect the river that has kept you going all through the long winter months! For complete fishing hut regulations visit www.ontario.ca/page/ice-fishing. To learn about water quality in your area and how to improve it, visit watersheds.rvca.ca.

It’s officially March, and that means it's time to haul in your fishing huts, hockey nets and other on-ice gear before the ice is out. Building materials, benches and shovels, garbage and other waste can pollute our rivers and lakes, harm fish and wildlife and create hazards for boaters and swimmers in the spring. Under Ontario law, Eastern Ontario fishing huts must be removed by March 15. However, as the sun gets stronger and the weather begins to warm, it’s wise to remove them sooner rather than later. If you wait too long, you may find the ice too thin to

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New research finds nine out of ten Canadians are reading newspapers The most recent Newspapers 24/7 research confirms that Canadians are still turning to news media in printed and digital formats. Research from November/December 2021 finds that 86% of Canadians are newspaper readers. The majority of these readers (95%) now access their news digitally, on smartphones, computers, and tablets. But almost half of readers (46%) are still opting to read their news in printed newspapers. Readership is truly multi-platform, with a quarter of readers satisfying their appetite for news on ALL FOUR platforms. 5

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Kutebah Alyousef kutebah1984@gmail.com 613-276-4583 www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Kemptville Winter Carnival in 2023! On second thought, maybe we should enjoy some warmer weather before we skip right to next winter. Proof of Vaccination: On Tuesday March 1, the provincial government withdrew the provincial requirement for proof of vac-

Thanks to everyone involved in making the Skateway a reality this year! It was a wonderful outdoor activity that gave many of us a big juicy bite of both fun and nostalgia. The bright side is that we can now look forward to next year's Skateway and the first

613.258.2782

146 Prescott St. Kemptville

@bubbaandbugscoffee

The Voice of North Grenville

cination passports. However, businesses, institutions and other organizations may still choose to require proof of vaccination to enter their premises. They may make this decision based on what they believe is best for the health and safety of their employees, volunteers, clients and families. Some members of our business community and residents may have real concerns and worries about what the easing of restrictions means for them and their families. Please be kind and patient with each other as we all navigate this new normal together. For some, this lifting of restrictions is a most welcome development, for others, not so much. The experience of the last two years has left its mark on many of us. Not

everyone is ready to move forward. There are those who are still dealing with anxiety, grief and fear that won't just disappear overnight. Over the days, weeks and months ahead if you encounter someone who is clearly struggling with a situation, please give that person some time and space. Not everyone deals with things in the same way or at the same pace. You also don't know the kind of struggles that person may dealing with. Kindness in harmony with patience may be our greatest weapon against the many troubles that we must face together. Let's spread them generously, one person at a time.

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Heritage wood-fired brick oven operating since 1885

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tom@tmblaw.ca 613.258.1277 222 Prescott St., Kemptville

services

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2794 County Rd 43, Kemptville The North Grenville Times

Council lowers proposed tax increase North Grenville’s Council approved the 2022 Budget last week, concluding the budget process for 2022. Council worked with staff to approve a final budget with a tax rate increase of just 0.74%. “We have taken a fiscally responsible approach while investing in our community. This is consistent with Council’s intention since 2019 to keep annual tax rate increases well below 2 percent,” said Mayor Peckford. Municipal budgets are comprised of capital and operating expenses. The Municipality’s capital budget represents an investment of $6,685,295 on infrastructure in 2022 that will support sustainable growth in North Grenville while rehabilitating and replacing existing infrastructure. Some of the Highlights include: Approximately $1.8 million has been allocated this year for the forthcoming, multi-year County Road 43 roadway expansion and new bridge project which is scheduled to begin later this year (North Grenville is responsible for multi-use pathways, trees, lighting, and some minor underground works, which constitutes approximately 17% of the overall cost of the multi-year project.); Gravel rebuilds, rehabilitation and pavement overlays of several rural and urban roads; Roof and related repairs of Maplewood Hall, one of North Grenville’s oldest public buildings and former Oxford Mills school house; Support for key community services such as, the Kemptville District Hospital, local Victim Services, Kemptville Salvation Army Food Bank, Seniors Community transportation services, and The Beth Donovan Hospice; New amenities in Riverside Park to ensure full year use as well as key upgrades to safe equipment in parks in rural hamlets. (It is important to note that funding for rural and urban park investments is being provided from the $100,000 Grand Prize awarded to North Grenville by ParticipACTION and North Grenville’s Development Charges (standard one-time fees paid by commercial and residential developers for future infrastructure needs as our community grows); Key improvements to the Municipal building to improve accessibility and audio-visual capacities; An Affordable Housing Fund to incentivize developers to incorporate affordable housing units into future builds; The establishment of North Grenville’s first ever Heritage Buildings Reserve fund. The operating portion of the budget in the year 2022 dedicates $26,022,550 towards the costs of running the Municipality, excluding water and wastewater. “Investing in continuous advancements to our municipal operations while also forging partnerships with dynamic community and business groups has been Council’s focus, with the goal of improving customer service, enhancing quality of life and promoting a healthy and cohesive community as we grow,” Mayor Peckford added. “North Grenville is growing, and with that growth comes increased opportunities as well as responsibilities. We must pursue crucial infrastructure investments, while ensuring wellmanaged growth that will shape North Grenville for the decades to come,” emphasized Gary Dyke, Chief Administrative Officer. “We extend our gratitude to Mr. Dyke and senior staff for their dedication and expertise in the development of this 2022 budget. Our collaboration throughout the process made it possible for Council to approve a budget that allows for important investments in our community, is fiscally responsible and upholds service levels,” Mayor Peckford noted. Budget 2022 can be found on our website at: www.northgrenville.ca/budget.

••

UPDATE

For updates related to COVID-19 and the North Grenville Municipal Centre visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please note: Renovations at the North Grenville Municipal Centre reception area are underway. Access to the facility will continue to be through the main entrance doors located on the North side of the building. Customer service will be moved upstairs for the duration of the renovation project. Access to the 2nd floor stairs and elevator will be available during this time. Sign-up to Mayor Peckford’s e-newsletter at: northgrenville.ca/connect.

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please pre-register with the Clerk's Office at the same e-mail address. Please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting. If you require accommodation, please advise the Clerk’s Office when pre-registering so that they may best assist you. Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/featured and on the Municipality’s website at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes. Council agendas are available at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes. • Council Meeting (Open) – Virtual – March 16, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committee meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting, pre-registration is required by e-mailing the Clerk’s Office at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. •Tourism Advisory Subcommittee – March 17, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. •Accessibility Advisory Committee – March 21, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. •Arts and Culture Advisory Committee – March 22, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. •Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee – March 23, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. •Active Transportation Advisory Committee – March 24, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. •Environmental Action Advisory Committee – March 28, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.

NORTH GRENVILLE POLICE SERVICES BOARD

Police Services Board meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing the Clerk’s Office at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca

ACCESSIBLE TRANSIT

North Grenville Accessible Transit is available seven (7) days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The service is available for anyone who meets the definition of having a disability in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarian with Disabilities Act or Seniors 65+. Visit www.northgrenville.ca/transit to register for the service or call 613-258-9569 ext. 133. 2022 INTERIM TAX BILLS All 2022 Interim Tax Bills have been mailed. If you have not received your bill, please contact the Administration Office. The installment due date is March 31, 2022. Final tax bills for all tax classes will be mailed in June. Reminder: Payments can be made by credit card when paying online through our website.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for updates on volunteer and employment opportunities. Funding and Grants Research Analyst (Contract) The Municipality is seeking to fill the position of Funding and Grants Research Analyst on a contract basis. Please visit northgrenville. ca/careers for the job description. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to hr@northgrenville.on.ca no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 11, 2022. Building Inspector The Building Division of the Planning and Development Department is seeking to fill a full-time position for a Building Inspector. Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for the job description. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to hr@northgrenville.on.ca no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 14, 2022. Seasonal Student Positions 2022 - Parks, Recreation and Culture The Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is currently accepting applications for full and part-time spring/summer student positions. Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for a list of the positions available. Please send resumes to hr@northgrenville.on.ca no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 14, 2022. Engineering Summer Students The Department of Public Works is seeking to fill three (3) Summer Engineering Student positions. Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for the job description. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to hr@ northgrenville.on.ca no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 18, 2022.

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca www.NorthGrenville.ca

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Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, To Steve Clark: I am not at all happy with the decision to cancel the mandate that restaurants ensure that patrons are vaccinated before welcoming them into the establishment. This decision, along with permitting restaurants to seat full capacity, means that the odds that the person at the next table is a carrier of Covid19 or a variant have completely turned around. I will now avoid eating in restaurants until a much higher percent of the population has been fully vaccinated, I.e., 2 shots plus at least one booster. I have read that some 80% of Ontarians only have had one shot. Your actions imply that the pandemic is over. It is not. I think your government has caved in to a bunch of thoughtless, selfish people who seem to believe every conspiracy they read on social media. Now tonight I saw on the news that you are cancelling the requirement to wear a mask in stores and other public places. It is known that this is an airborne virus, so why are you doing this? The number of cases are going to rise because of the lifting of the proof of vaccine requirement. Removing the mask requirement before at least an 85% to 90% vaccination rate is foolhardy. Your 10% anti-vaxxers are unlikely to vote compared to the majority who have willingly complied with the mandates designed to protect us. At least maintain the mask requirement until the numbers are lower and remain lower for a reasonable length if time. Shirley Price Dear Editor, In Steve Gabell's Times Op-Ed last week, he makes a clumsy attempt to debunk Intelligent Design (ID) theory, often using shallow arguments that were thoroughly refuted years ago. David Shanahan does a good job of addressing some of Gabell's points in his response piece, but I would like to counter a few others. Steve Gabell tries to make fun of the supposed "poor design" in humans and other species. He may be surprised to learn that his complaint is a theological argument claiming in effect, "that is not how

God would have done it", as if he knows more about biology and complex design than the Creator. Anyone who has ever designed anything knows there is no such thing as a perfect design. Every design involves tradeoffs among the specifications, costs, materials, schedule, purpose, manufacturing, useful life, and so on. Improving a good design in one respect generally means reducing it in some other way. And even a poor design requires a designer! Moreover, several of the "poor designs" reported in the anti-ID literature are actually quite good when examined closely by experts, including the way the human retina is arranged. Steve claims that "almost limitless" time and space allow the "power of evolution" to work its wonders. Yet time and again, analysis has shown there is not enough time or matter in the entire Universe to produce even one totally new protein fold via the Darwinian mechanism of random mutation plus natural selection. Meanwhile, most plant and animal groups include at least one protein not found in any other life form. Indeed, when scientists do experiments to find out what the Darwinian mechanism can actually achieve, they find severe limitations - nothing anywhere close to what Darwin envisaged. And when the supposed evidence in favour of Darwinism is studied closely, it is found to be: trivial micro-evolutionary tweaking, like antibiotic resistance in bacteria; or devolution (loss of genetic information) as in blind cave fishes; or better explained by ID theory, as with the fossil record. Intelligent Design theory claims there are various aspects of our world that are better explained by the work of a guiding intelligence than by unguided, natural mechanisms. Some of these aspects include: the origin of the Universe with its extreme fine tuning of the multiple physical constants and conditions needed for any form of life to exist; the origin of life itself, which has no credible natural explanation, despite decades of pretentious story telling; and the sudden arrival of new and complex life forms, without precursors, at various times in the fossil record. ID

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at the same time. Pierre Poilievre has a lot of baggage to carry with him from that government as he attempts to become the next Conservative leader and potential prime minister. Can we look forward to more of those tactics in a possible future Poilievre government? S. Hamill Merrickville

performs research to elucidate these and other aspects, while demonstrating that natural mechanisms are incapable of producing what is seen. Before attacking another's position or belief, one should learn as much as possible about it. Rather than reading anti-ID screeds, Steve Gabell, or anyone truly interested in learning more about Intelligent Design with an open mind, should look into the available ID web sites, such as https://intelligentdesign. org/ or https://evolutionnews. org/ . Ed Norman

Dear Editor, Regarding the editorial of 2 March, Can I get a witness? Off the top, my bias comes from years of composing news releases and features. I believe, as Shakespeare wrote, brevity is the soul of wit. If writers cannot get their thoughts down in roughly 250 words, the individuals need to refine their focus. There is no good writing without good editing. An editor’s job is to edit, so in past years when some of my letters to the Ottawa Citizen or the CBC were abridged, I was not offended. Some contributions to the Times are a challenge to the most indulgent readers. Good writing cannot be expected from all letter writers, and judicious editing should be exercised. Authors must commit to their opinions with the courage to sign their names. I am not a fan of anonymity. I’ve penned some pieces in hope of creating discussion. While the Letters to the Editor is a forum permitting secrecy, North Grenville has FaceBook pages on which to openly exchange ideas. A core responsibility of a community newspaper is the exchange of ideas. Also, the editor has the right to use the medium as a platform. Michael Whittaker

Dear Editor, I enjoyed Peter Johnson’s op-ed on the anti-democratic tactics of the previous Conservative federal government in which Pierre Poilievre played a major role. But I think Peter missed a few strategies of that Harper-Baird-Kent-Poilievre era which I would like to add. 1. Stop the flow of scientific information: If your civil servants are producing data which disagrees with your policies, stop the research and muzzle the scientists. That way nobody in your government will be contradicting you if you, for example, want to deny climate change or do nothing about it. It works for Putin! 2. Change the laws: If there are laws getting in the way of your projects, change the laws. The Fisheries Act, which protected all fish and fish habitat, the Navigable Waters Protection Act, which protected all navigable watercourses, and the Environmental Assessment Act were threatening promotion of the oil and gas industry and the proposed Northern Gateway Pipeline. What’s an Environment Minister to do faced with that dilemma? Just change the laws in order that the environment is no longer protected. That’s what Peter Kent did. 3. Say one thing but do another: You can make your government look good when you allocate funds at the start of the fiscal year. But for those ministries which are not priorities (Environment, Veterans) don’t let them spend the money; then at the end of the year the money goes back into the treasury. You can look good, save money, and not spend on unimportant files all

Dear Editor, I have just read Brandon Mayer’s article in last week’s NGT about Doug Ford eliminating license plate sticker renewal fees. My first reaction was that there must be an election coming. This is such a cheap trick, trying to bribe us with our own money, but it is so typical of this government. My second reaction was to wonder how many of our social services are going to get cut to pay for this. That then started me thinking about the important stuff that the Ford government has either failed to do, or is

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The Voice of North Grenville doing things contrary to what many of us believe in, so here is a reminder. The biggest threat to our planet is climate change, which we have been told about as long ago as 30 years, and this government has done nothing about it, because it actually doesn’t believe that it is happening, even though the proof is all around them. It started by cancelling green power contracts, costing the taxpayer $231 million in penalties, has allowed our emissions to actually increase since, and now wants to make them even worse by building gas-fired power plants. The pandemic over the last two years has shown, in stark relief, the problems with our healthcare system. Ford has actively worked against our health system, recently introducing Bill 124, freezing the wages of our hospital workers, which is unconscionable. These people deserve a raise, not to mention that we also need a massive investment in our hospitals and long-term care systems. Then there is the 400 series highways that the Ford government wants to build, but which we don’t need, in the process paving over 2,000 acres of prime farmland, (at a time when we need to be more self-sufficient in the ability to feed ourselves), and destroying natural areas, including important wetlands. They are also building prisons that we, again, also don’t need, (which, in Kemptville’s case, is also paving over yet more farmland), when all they need to do to solve the problem is to improve the bail system by returning it to what it was three decades ago. At the same time, there is still a need to improve social services to help those who find themselves on the wrong side of the law due to things like poverty and mental health. Yet another is the $15 minimum wage that Ford initially cut back, then eventually restored, but it is still not a living wage. There is a also a need for a guaranteed basic income (GBI) to lift people out of poverty, which had a pilot program in force when his government took over. Ford immediately scrapped it, even though it was working well, allowing those who were participating to start

turning their lives around, and pulling them out of poverty. Conservatives always say that we cannot afford GBI, in the process ignoring the cost of health problems, both physical and mental, when struggling and marginalised people cannot afford to feed or house themselves properly. I could fill a couple of pages on this stuff, but maybe just one more important item, which is our public school system. Ford is trying to destroy that by making the situation in our classrooms so toxic that it is driving people to send their children into the private system. Which, of course, is just what he wants. He is doing virtually nothing about the fact that our schools need $15 billion in repairs and upgrades, and that class sizes need to be reduced to ensure that our children are properly educated. If you care about any of these things, there is a chance to correct what is happening on June 2. Please don’t allow the “Did Not Vote” Party to carry the day, as it has done in so many of our elections. Take the time to read what each Party stands for, and vote your conscience. You may not like the system that we have, but nothing will get fixed by ignoring what we are stuck with. I totally agree that the system needs changing, but if we want to do that, then we have to elect a government that is willing to help us do that, and not one that ignores and hinders us. Colin Creasey Kemptville Dear Editor, I completely agree with Mr. Vanveen's sentiment that if you want to express an opinion, you must be willing to put your name behind it. To hide behind "name withheld by request" is to allow sniping at, or criticism of any given topic from a position of cowardice. If you want to participate in debate, have the intestinal fortitude to own your position. Dave Pelletier Kemptville continued on page 13

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Production production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

International Women’s Day

by Mayor Nancy Peckford On International Women’s Day, we join communities around the world to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of women – past, present and future generations – and recognize the courage and solidarity they show every day. Growing up in Newfoundland, International Women's Day wasn’t as celebrated as it is today. As a young woman, I had the benefit of some great teachers and community leaders. It wasn’t until I was in high school, however, that this support began to help me see my potential and provide me with new opportunities and the confidence I needed to pursue my path. As a child, I was very close to my maternal grandmother, who herself had 12 children. She was an incredibly strong person who helped run her family’s general store, while raising her kids. Life was definitely not easy, but she rose to the occasion, teaching herself how to read alongside her younger children, and ensuring they got a good education. Having left school at the age of 11 in a small fishing village, she was proud to have become an avid reader. It wasn’t until I entered the workforce that I better understood the significance of

Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan

International Women’s Day. When I became a mother to three small children, I saw the incredible balancing act that so many women confront in trying to do it all. The reality is that you really can’t. As a parent, you see the world through the eyes of your children who depend on you for their health and happiness, and you want to do everything you can to support them. That’s why North Grenville was such a great community for us to choose. Even though we didn’t have family and friends here when we moved, we were grateful to find hockey, dance, and martial arts. Our community has such passionate volunteers, coaches, and teachers who offer these activities for the well-being of families and seniors. My decision to become involved in politics was because I had come to understand what a difference positive role models can make, at every level of government. Even though municipal politics is regarded as the lowest level of government, it is the

Mayor Nancy Peckford

leadership that women offer. It is what I saw in my extraordinary grandmother, and what I see in this community all the time. In my opinion, it’s not about women vs men, but it is about ensuring that everyone gets the chance to bring their best to the table. It’s also, at its core, fostering a society where everyone feels cared about, valued, and respected. I think that's what previous generations of women have been fighting for - dignity and an equal chance to contribute, not just to their families, but to their community, as volunteers, professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders. There is not a day that I take being a Mom, or a Mayor, for granted. I am acutely aware that, before long, my kids will have moved out, and that my time as Mayor will have passed. That said, I have decided to seek another term, so that we can finish the work we started. It’s been a privilege to offer some of my talents to the community where my kids are growing up - and to work with a dynamic group of women and men, both, on Council. As a female leader, I am grateful to give back, and delighted to collaborate with so many in North Grenville who are committed to making our community even better. Happy International Women's Day!

arena where the pedal really hits the metal. When I decided to run for Mayor, I didn't know if i would succeed on the first try. Nonetheless, I could see how much we all cared about access to good recreational opportunities, walking trails, road safety, low taxes, and a manageable level of growth. As a growing community, there were lots of changes coming, and there still are. Better understanding everyone's perspectives and anxieties, and fostering community partnerships where there are opportunities for individuals of all ages and life stages to enjoy a high quality of life, is so key to a healthy thriving community. This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. To help promote a world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. International Women's Day is a chance to celebrate the strength, resilience, and

Councillor Kristin Strackerjan

March 9, 2022

Loretta Corbeil has been hired to lead the refresh of the Leeds and Grenville Immigration Strategy. Loretta has over twentyfive years working in the nonprofit sector with experience in community development, program implementation, and management. Her ties and experience in Leeds and Grenville give her a grounded view and necessary background to help lead the strategy refresh. Her ongoing continuing education has included all aspects of nonprofit management including strategic planning, fundraising, proposal writing, board governance, staff and volunteer management and evaluation. She has completed training with both Tamarack Institution of Public Innovation in Collective Impact and Harwood Institute of Public innovation in Community Change. She is a member of the Canada Evaluation Society and has recently completed training in Diversity Equity and Inclusion Evaluation. All together, Loretta's training, education, experience, and local knowledge make her the

ideal person to lead the Leeds and Grenville Immigration Strategy refresh. The St. Lawrence – Rideau Immigration Partnership has been working on a refresh of the Leeds and Grenville Immigration Strategy to be finalized in April, 2022. The Strategy will provide direction on how local agencies, individuals, and communities can participate in creating a welcoming region for immigrants. Labour market challenges, the recent arrival of many newcomer refugees, and additional federal immigration streams are a few factors being considered as the Strategy is refreshed. Surveys and consultations have been ongoing through January and February, 2022. As a thank you to our participants, several gift cards to local immigrant-owned businesses were offered as door prizes for those who shared their thoughts. These gift cards were to El Rebost de les Mil Iles in Prescott, Panache Bakery in Gananoque, and Sunset Grill in Brockville. The community consultations have seen participation from people in every municipality within in Leeds and Grenville and has included municipal representatives, interested citizens, social service agencies, immigrants, and educational institutions.

Councillor John Barclay

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2022 on behalf of North Grenville’s Council

Loretta Corbeil leads new strategic plan

Connie is a local lawyer, serving North Grenville and surrounding communities in the areas of Real Estate, Wills and Estates, and Uncontested Family Law. She moved to Kemptville in 1997 from Ottawa, choosing North Grenville as the best place to raise a family. She is a past member of the Board of Directors of the Kemptville Youth Centre and provides pro bono legal services to a number of local charities and not-for-profit organizations that benefit North Grenville.

Councillor Deb Wilson

9

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International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women in North Grenville

Caroline Anderson Sales Representative 613-410-3111

Lisa Deschambault Sales Representative 613-282-8934

Antonella Holmes Sales Representative 613-769-1516

Sue Barnes Broker 613-292-5889

Stacey Broniszeski Sales Representative 613-246-3057

Jill Dulmage Broker 613-620-0011

Julia Forbes Sales Representative 613-618-0131

Jessica Kehoe Sales Representative 343-572-2274

Sue Jackson Sales Representative 613-795-6801

Ashley Moore Sales Representative 613-552-0431

Nina Tachuk Sales Representative 613-725-6462

139 Prescott St, Kemptville March 9, 2022

Brittany Byrd Sales Representative 613-246-7777

Jennifer Hindorff Sales Representative 613-218-7128

Judith Millard Broker 613-340-2909

Liz Wardhaugh Sales Representative 613-884-6652

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Building on strong supports

Dr. Doyle getting away from it all. Dr Crystal Doyle, Chief of Emergency Medicine, WDMH “As a little girl growing up on a farm on Prince Edward Island, I always thought I would farm with my parents. I used to spend my days playing with the animals and having typical childhood daydreams about saving the day when a catastrophe struck the farm. “I recall, as a child, my mother saying to me that my persistence would eventually get me somewhere and that I could do anything I wanted to if I put my mind to it. The hardest part of that was to try to not listen to the naysayers. And I had lots of people who thought the blond haired blue eyed child couldn’t. From a Drivers Education teacher to a high school teacher to a university professor, I was told frequently that I didn’t have the skills needed to succeed.

“My grandmother told me once that it takes ten positive comments to erase one negative comment. Luckily for me, I had some wonderful mentors along the way who saw my true potential and advocated heavily for my success.” For the longest time Dr Doyle thought having children would inhibit her success as a physician, until she discussed it with her residency program director, Dr. Karen Graham, who was extremely supportive and advocated for parental leave. “My approach to becoming a parent changed at that moment. I now have four wonderful children, three daughters and a son. Balancing parenting along with my own personal and professional interests is a challenge relatable to all mothers, but the rewards are heartwarming and so very worthwhile.” As Chief of Emergency Medicine at Winchester District Memorial Hospital, Crystal leads and represents a team of twenty-five physicians practicing emergency medicine 24/7/365. "I am fortunate to work with a well rounded, charismatic group of physicians and to represent rural emergency medicine with other Department Chiefs and Hospital Administration to deliver the

best care close to home." Now, Crystal's days are as varied as much as her interests. When she is not working, or driving a minivan of children around to different activities, you can find Crystal going for a Starbucks coffee with friends, or training for her next half marathon. When asked what does International Women's Day mean to her, she replied: "I see International Women’s Day as a way for all women to support each other and become each other’s mentor.” And while we think about the many accomplishments women have achieved in society, whether it is motherhood or otherwise, International Women's Day reminds us each year that these contributions are the foundation of progress for women, most importantly, as individuals first, for women in rural Ontario, and internationally. "I'm fortunate to work and raise my children because those are my aspirations." When asked what Crystal hopes International Women's Day will mean when her young daughter is her mother's age, Crystal said “ I am hopeful that by that time we won’t need to recognize the struggles of our success and that all genders will have equal opportunities.”

Fitness and Exercise Myth Busting for Women potential for osteoporosis increases substantially. Strength training promotes increased bone density and improves balance and mobility. Many women experience fewer symptoms associated with other diseases as well, such as, diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. The bottom line here is that the older we get, the benefits of exercise multiply. Myth #3: Women will get bulky if they lift heavy. This is one of the biggest untruths disseminated in the fitness industry today. YOU WILL NOT HULK OUT BY LIFTING HEAVY...I PROMISE. Look; I have been weight training very regularly for over ten years now, and I am FAR from the Incredible Hulk. Yes, we've all seen those pictures of the incredibly muscular and rather masculine looking female bodybuilders that many of us might find disturbing. What you must understand is that these women look that way by choice; after training and dieting excessively for many years, and often pumping themselves full of anabolic steroids to enhance muscle growth. That coupled with the fact that they likely had insane genetics to begin with. The reality is that women have between 1/15 to 1/20 the amount of testosterone (the main hormone associated with muscle growth) compared to men. Ladies, listen, if you want

to look healthy, feel great, and be strong, DO NOT be afraid to lift heavy things. The benefits are immeasurable! Carting your toddler around in your arms, chasing after your grandchildren, carrying in your family's groceries, stacking wood, rearranging furniture, and climbing stairs will be a breeze. In conclusion, remember that, because the health and fitness industry is, by and large, unregulated AND is comprised of many ferociously competitive entrepreneurs, sadly, sometimes the volume of sales and company profits come before customer health and well being. DO YOUR RESEARCH. Find a personal trainer and/or a gym that conducts business with integrity, putting the interests and wellbeing of their clients above all else. My finals words..."Beware of the half-truth. You may have gotten a hold of the wrong half". ~Unknown Rebecca Cronk is a fitness specialist and owner/operator of Get Cronk'd Fitness Studio. She has an Honours Bachelor of Science with a Specialization in Human Kinetics from the University of Ottawa, is a professional member of the Canadian Society of Physiologists, Exercise is Medicine Canada, Canadian Fitness Professionals, and the Ontario Society for Health and Fitness.

Twenty three months ago women everywhere were dealt an impossible hand. Unsure if fate was bluffing, many of us wanted to fold. We've been challenged in ways we never thought possible. We've been pulled in MANY directions, worn MANY hats; and, we've juggled MANY jobs from wife, mother, teacher, daughter, caregiver, friend, daycare worker, nurse, taxi, referee, cook, housekeeper, bookkeeper and more. All this while, in many cases, trying to balance a full time career.

A place called Kindergarten We are now accepting registration to our Kindergarten Program for the 2022/2023 school year. Children who were born in 2017 or 2018 are eligible to enroll. Please register online through MyFamilyRoom at http://www.ucdsb.on.ca/for_families/registration/kindergarten

It's been hard, really REALLY hard but together we called fate's bluff and, in true SHERO fashion, we ALL rose to the occasion and played the hand we were dealt with prowess, purpose and grace.

We will be holding a Virtual Information Session for parents and children, on

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

For details on the event and invitation to join us, please contact the school and we will provide a link to the Meeting.

Myself, Coach Rebecca, and the rest of my team at Get Cronk'd Fitness Studio applaud you, recognize you, and appreciate you on this International Women's Day. We are ALWAYS stronger when we cheer each other on.

Brad O’Neil, Principal 50 Water St., Oxford Mills, ON K0G 1S0 Tel: 613-258-3141 Fax 1-855-408-0863 www.oxford-on-rideau.ucdsb.on.ca

March 9, 2022

by Rebecca Cronk To many personal trainers' displeasure, myths and halftruths associated with diet and exercise abound; much like rumours at a high school dance. The reality is that it's easy to fall victim to a fitness or diet myth. We've all done it. If everybody is talking about it, it MUST be true...right? WRONG! Let's dispel a few of these myths right now. Myth #1: If I start exercising, my fat will turn into muscle. Oh, if only it were that easy. Fat DOES NOT turn into muscle. It doesn't matter if you are sedentary or active; fat and muscle are two entirely different types of tissue. Having fat turn into muscle is about as likely as having a lump of coal turn into gold. If a person who was once very active stops exercising, muscles will eventually atrophy (waste away) and become less efficient, and the body's ability to burn fat will become compromised. The bottom line is, when an exercise routine is abandoned, oftentimes so too is the healthy diet; resulting in lost muscle and subsequently gained fat. Myth #2: Postmenopausal women should not do strength training. This could not be further from the truth! In fact, it is the perfect time to start. Strength training does so much more than make you look and feel great. After menopause, the

EMPOWERED WOMEN EMPOWER WOMEN. SO HERE'S TO STRONG WOMEN. MAY WE KNOW THEM. MAY WE BE THEM. MAY WE RAISE THEM. 11

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International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

Being a woman in 2022

by Chelsea Baker, Sales Manager, Lockwood Brothers Construction I was asked to put together a few words on what it is like to be a woman in 2022: specifically, a full-time working woman in 2022. I am certain I can speak for most when I say it is hard work. As a single Mom of two, who works full time, there are many days that I myself don’t even know how it all gets done. Between birthday parties and staff meetings, hockey practices and conference calls, permission letters and spreadsheets, it can be overwhelming. Throw in a few months of home schooling on top, and it’s easy to see why so many working parents are barely hanging on

these days. With all that being said, I wouldn’t want it any other way (except for home schooling - that I can live without!) I love my job. I mean, I get to build people their dream homes - what could be more fun than that!? I get to use my talents and my abilities daily – both of which give a huge sense of accomplishment. I get to show my children that hard works pays off, and finding a job you find rewarding every day IS possible. And - I get to meet amazing people along the way! The three most important things I have learned in my journey of being a working Mom in today’s landscape are: Find your tribe! These are

CO2 Down to Earth 10

Our Wetlands and Biodiversity

by Philip Fry In the midst of the horrible news from Ukraine, the latest report from the International Panel on Climate Change, “Climate Change 2022, Impact, Adaptation and Vulnerability”, has slipped by almost unnoticed in the press. And that is most unfortunate, because it sums up the worldwide devastation already being caused by climate change. According to the SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations, António Guterres, the report is "an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership... all people on the planet are getting clobbered by climate change." An important “take home” message is that effective solutions aiming at mitigation and March 9, 2022

adaptation will have to be invented and implemented on the regional level. Why? The impacts of climate change vary according to local geography – the given position of a locality on the globe, its landscape features, and its habitat mix. What does this mean for us? Our landscape patchwork sits in a saucer-like depression between highlands along the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa rivers. The drainage systems of the region flow slowly, and various types of wetlands, both naturally occurring and humanly engineered, dominate much of the territory. Slowly moving waters are of importance to bio-diverse life-forms, but they are also very susceptible to weather irregularities and

Time for Yourself. A clichéd piece of advice, but oh, so important! We know burn out is affecting us at rates higher than ever before. With the troubling news headlines daily, rising costs, and the new way of life brought on by the pandemic - the regular day to day as we knew it has changed, and it can be exhausting! Most days, there isn’t enough time to get through even the basics, so

the best friends you can call when things get overwhelming. Who you can laugh (and cry!) with over a glass of wine, talking about all the crazy things that happened this week. This is the family you can call when the bus gets cancelled (for the 3rd time this week) to come pick up the kids and bring them to school. The ones who will bring you dinner when you had to work late, but still need to get to hockey practice. This is your partner, the one that helps you laugh through your craziness, while reminding you that this journey is fun, even on the days it isn’t. This tribe is, by far, your most important asset. Scrap the Work/Life Balance Idea. This is a tough one. Realize that nothing will ever feel balanced. When you are killing it at work, you will feel like you are lacking at home. When you feel like you are killing it home, you will feel like you are failing at work. This is okay! It is impossible to be your best everywhere, all the time. Try, instead, to enjoy and recognize the times you ARE being a superstar at the office, and know that, next week, you will be back to being Supermom at home – and when you are shining at home, know it’s only a matter of time before you are back being your best self at work. NOTE: Repeat as long and as often as you are a working woman!

the accumulation of polluting agents: herbicides, pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and novel entities in human waste. There are provincial conservation institutions based on the three major drainage systems in Eastern Ontario – the Rideau, the Nation, and the Raisin rivers – mandated to ensure the health of our waterways and wetlands. They have been doing important work monitoring the purity of the region's water systems and have developed innovative programs to support and enhance shoreline biodiversity. They have also issued scientifically based “report cards” on water purity, the grade being given rarely better than a C+. One of the big culprits seems to be run-off of excess chemical fertilizer

start small. Plan a 15-minute walk listening to your favourite podcast, go for a spa treatment, or just shut the door and take extra-long in the bath. I have come to love my alone time. So much so, I have even taken several entire vacations solo! This alone time, in whatever version I can get it, gives me time to recharge and reflect. And when I do – I always come out of it feeling like I can take on the world

(or at least another night of homework). A quote I love, “No matter where you are in life, inspire and empower the women around you. Success is never reached alone. And wisdom and wealth are sweeter shared.” Unknown. Women are incredible! Happy International Women’s Day!

Contact Us For More Details info@lbchomes.com 613.258.4225

2010 Totem Ranch Road EAST, Oxford Station

Back Row, L to R: Chelsea Baker; Makayla Markell Front Row, L to R: Madison Lightfoot, Jessica Probert, Antonella Audet, Nicole Craftchick

“One woman can make a difference, but together we can change the world.” Happy International Women’s Day from the Women of Lockwood Brothers Construction applied in farms. A retired member of a Conservation Authority has told me that the amount recommended to farmers by fertilizer companies almost always exceeded the Authority's estimates. Duh. The problem isn't that we do not have the institutions necessary to address climate change and the loss of biodiversity. It is that at the present, instead of being given more ability to do their work, they are being hampered in doing what needs to be done by an inherent weakness in their governing structure and regulations that inhibit them from dealing effectively with “politically sensitive” matters. It appears that the governing boards of the Authorities are composed of people with little competence in conservation and a bias towards “development.” Moreover, their conservation mandate has been

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gutted by recent legislation. A spokesperson for an Authority explains: “in general, no conservation authority in Ontario may, directly or indirectly, engage in political activities regarding development projects.” Since sharing negative views about such projects with the public is “political,” the Conservation Authorities are effectively gagged. What to do with this situation? For the time being (pending the election), the weight of conservation will fall by default upon volunteers. The work to be done is massive: invasive species need to be extirpated and native species reintroduced. There is hope, because this community has always rallied to crises if well informed. For example, there has been some success in combating the aggressive spread of non-native Phragmites reeds by establishing limiting borders with

attractive and tough native species such as the Cup plant (Sylphium perfoliatum). The dense growth of Phragmites excludes native plant species in which a wide range of birds and amphibians find food and shelter. The Cup plant, on the contrary, grows in clumps but with well-spaced stems, catches and conserves water in its cupped leaves, and is a delight for birds, butterflies, and other insects in dry weather. As its bright yellow blossoms fade, seed is formed, insects nestle in its fibrous stems, and it continues its work of assisting birds well into winter. We have all we need to get going on this: good people and a wealth of natural, institutional, and scientific resources. Much needs to be done. Please continue with your in-put. I am at wildflowerguy@gmail.com. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

OPP report

Ag Safety Week:

Safety is Our Standard Organised by The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, March 13-19, 2022, is the first Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW), under the banner: “Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success”. Organizers are calling all farmers, ranchers, farm families, farm workers and farming communities to implement farm safety plans, talk about farm safety, and value #FarmSafetyEveryday. Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is an annual public campaign committed to raising awareness about the

importance of farm safety. In 2022, organizers are focusing on not just practical safety advice and awareness but also the reasons why safety is essential for all farming operations. “Farm safety is not just about knowing what hazards exist,” says Andrea Lear, CASA’s Chief Executive Officer. “Farm Safety is also about changing unsafe behaviours and habits, understanding the positive business case for incorporating safety on farming operations and addressing what it truly means

Seeking Directors for KDH Board Kemptville District Hospital (www.kdh.on.ca) is an integrated health services organization serving the health needs of North Grenville, the eastern regions of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, and South Ottawa in partnership with other health care and community organizations in our region. KDH is part of an approved Ontario Health Team – Ottawa West Four Rivers – comprised of many community service providers as well as our primary care providers in the region.

to value safety and health. This year, CASA is excited to host conversations about making meaningful and longlasting change for the health and safety of everyone that lives, works, and visits farms and ranches.” Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is the presenting sponsor of CASW and a valuable farm safety champion. FCC supports many farm safety programs, including Back to Ag, a program that assists with the cost of adaptive technology for farmers who have experienced a traumatic injury and CASA’s BeGrainSafe program. “Farms present a variety of workplace hazards, so incorporating solid safety practices each and every day is paramount for reducing risk to farm family members and employees,” said Michael Hoffort, FCC president and CEO. “CASW is an important reminder each year for everyone to take care and be safe on the farm.” For more than a decade, CASA has been raising awareness about the importance of safety on Canadian

farms through CASW, which takes place every year during the third week of March. In 2022, CASW sponsors include long-time corporate sponsor Farm Credit Canada, as well as CN, Syngenta, Bayer Crop Science and Fertilizer Canada. Additional information about CASW, including the media kit and resources is available at agsafetyweek.ca. The media kit contains feature stories, safety advice articles, public service announcements, graphics, and more. The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and safety of farmers, their families and agricultural workers. CASA is funded in part by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal, provincial and territorial initiative. For more information, visit www.casaacsa.ca, find us on Facebook or LinkedIn, or follow us on Twitter @planfarmsafety

Major drugs raid and arrests in Kemptville

Part of the goods and cash seized in the raid in Kemptville and Manotick. In the early morning of last Thursday, the OPP Street Crime unit executed two drug warrants, in Manotick and Kemptville. During the raid on a property on DePencier Drive, three people were arrested and charged with drug trafficking offences, and possessing proceeds of crime. One vehicle, forms of cocaine, pills, a watch, and close to $200,000 in cash were seized. The Street Crime unit was assisted by OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit and the OPP Emergency Response Team. The OPP Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit is assisting with the investigation, which is still ongoing. There were no injuries reported during the action.

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

KDH provides acute care hospital services and advanced orthopaedic surgery. We are committed to our mission of ‘Building Healthier Communities’ based on a patient and family centered delivery model, collaborative partnerships, and employing the best technology available. KDH is a model of hospital-led integrated health services within the provincial health system. KDH is governed by an unpaid Board of Directors consisting of 14 non-compensated volunteer members and 4 ex-officio members. The Volunteer members have diverse backgrounds and bring a variety of skills and areas of expertise to the team. A Board member can expect to spend a minimum of 10-12 hours per Month attending meetings and performing committee work.

Dear Editor, The report from the Ontario housing task force should be outlined with red flags. Recommendations in the report are to build 1.5 million homes within the next ten years "without the need for municipal approval." Look what happened when the province decided to build a prison here without municipal approval. Does anyone remember years back when people wanted to build homes along the Rideau River? The town of Kemptville denied them building permits, so they appealed to the OMB. The OMB overruled Kemptville, and the homes were built. So who is really responsible for the damages in the Hilly Lane area when the Rideau River annually overflows its banks? The need for municipal approval is a sensible safeguard. It should not be relinquished. Jean Hartjes, Kemptville

The Board is seeking candidates for the position of Director with a commitment to community service and willingness to learn and work in a team atmosphere. Candidates must be interested in helping KDH build healthier communities; residence in the Eastern Ontario region is required. Previous experience on a non-profit board, especially in the health or social service sector, is an asset. In this recruitment process we are looking for strengths and experience in the following areas: • Mental Health and Substance Use Health • Complex Project Management • Home, Community and Transitional Care • Health Informatics • Healthcare Technology Management • Health Human Resources • Legal • Relationship Management/Government Relations Diversity is also an important factor in our selection process. To apply, please send a letter of interest with CV to lleclair@kdh.on.ca before March 31, 2022, indicating “Board of Directors recruitment” in the subject line. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. March 9, 2022

The Voice of North Grenville

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Classifieds eds Classifi FOR SALE

Champion portable generator, 1500 starting watts/ 1200 rated watts. Never used, $250. Call John 613258-8820 Wheelchair, Fuse 5.0 with accessories; Shower chair with coasters & commode. $375 each. Call 613-5678533.

ASUS laptop - 12GB ram - 1TB HDD - AMD A12 processor 2.5-3.4 GHZ. Specs /pics available. $300. Fred 613-258-3596 Firewood for sale $110 a cord delivered, min 2 cord for delivery. Call Jon 613227-3650 Hay and straw for sale 4x4 round bales, stored inside. Call Jon 613-227-3650

Walker, Barber Kit, Women's, Bowling Shoes Women's Short Leather Boots call 258-5547

Cedar posts and rails for sale, various sizes available. Call Jon 613-227-3650

Triplex, waterfront, downtown Kemptville. Email redmondjg52@gmail.com for details.

Dust Free N #1 Horse & Cow Hay. Round or small square bales...call Jim 613.258.3561

Old used POS system along with two cash drawers, two receipts printers AS IS. $500 OBO. Contact dqkemptville@gmail.com

Horse drawn machinery for horse or small tractor, all types...call Jim 613.258.3561

KDCA AGM

The Kemptville District Community Association Annual General Meeting will be held 10 March, 2022, at 6pm via Zoom. Please email Kemptvilledistrictca@gmail.com for access to the zoom meeting before 2pm the day of the meeting. The Agenda will be sent to participants prior to. Any questions may be sent as well, and we will be having an open forum time. Looking forward to an amazing 2022!

CROSSWORD MISCELLANEOUS Firearms Course (March 5 and 6) and Hunter Education Course (March 11 and 12) in Burritt's Rapids. Please contact Kerry Coleman at 613-791-7515 or kerrycoleman@xplornet.com.

FOR RENT HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritt's Rapids! Start an art, musical, or book club to beat the winter blues. Our hall is well equipped for gatherings or celebrations, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids.com/ WANTED Local young farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail. com.

SERVICES RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repair. Call George at 613 462 7637

As heard on CFRA Experts on Call www.ontario-probate.ca

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March 9, 2022

ACROSS 1. Fish broth 6. Secure against leakage 10. Claim 14. Blockage of the intestine 15. Wan 16. As just mentioned 17. Stalks 18. Angers 19. Storage cylinder 20. Blood cells 22. Clock sound 23. Barely managed 24. Ribald 26. Domesticated ox 30. Nigerian tribesman 31. Ribonucleic acid 32. Black, in poetry 33. Backside 35. Not inner 39. Debt

41. Knickknack holder 43. Loamy deposit 44. German for "Mister" 46. Crones 47. Spy agency 49. 16 in Roman numerals 50. Gait faster than a walk 51. Commotion 54. French for "Head" 56. French for "Black" 57. Exchange messages 63. Effort 64. Assist in crime 65. Forbidden 66. Anagram of "Sees" 67. A territorial unit of Greece 68. Express a thought 69. Marsh plant 70. Gave the once-over 71. Anagram of "Paste"

DOWN 1. Platter 2. Countertenor 3. Clairvoyant 4. Something that bulges out 5. Put out 6. A deciduous aromatic shrub 7. Position of an earl 8. Away from the wind 9. Not greater 10. Deeply agitated 11. Dimwit 12. Burp 13. The air in some bars 21. To scour 25. Dwarf buffalo 26. Ardor 27. River of Spain 28. Drill 29. Unsupervised outside 34. Depraved 36. Rip 37. Therefore 38. A musical pause 40. Largest continent 42. Hackneyed 45. Uttermost 48. Loggia 51. Not over 52. Composure 53. Dentist's direction 55. Prevent legally 58. Comply with 59. Not Mama 60. Death notice 61. Not a single one 62. Accomplishes

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

HANDYMAN SERVICES Call Bill 613 774 2922

MILTONS ESTATES LAW Wills - Probate - Estates Estate Litigation

The Voice of North Grenville

INCOME TAX SERVICE

Easy

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classifieds@ ngtimes.ca

Hard

in Merrickville John Harris jgharris@sympatico.ca 613-297-7553

Medium

Solution to last week’s Crossword

139 Prescott St., Kemptville, ON. 14

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International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

The predicament of women: children vs careers

Christine’s story

by Nanda Wubs-Huizenga Christine: To most, she was eccentric, reclusive, and different – to me she was my friend. In the summer of 2000, our family moved to our new home near Chesterville. Shortly after we moved there, I often noticed a small, older lady shuffling up and down the road past our farm. She wore dirty, baggy clothing, had on rubber boots, and a baseball cap plunked on top of her head. She kept her gaze to the ground as if searching, and would occasionally stop to pick up something of interest. I knew her home was a few doors down, because it stood out from the rest of the neighbours’ tidy, well manicured properties. The house was old, run-down, and the grass was mowed haphazardly, with logs piled here and there, and small seedling trees sprouting through thick green mounds of uncut lawn. Chickens paraded around in clusters, picking their way through the grassy maze. Little did I know that each seedling had a purpose, each log was piled there for a reason, and that each chicken had a name that suited its personality. Christine’s yard was a story board of her love for nature and animals. My heart went out to her, and I gradually began to feel the Lord’s gentle nudge to meet. After some time had passed, I finally had a chance when, driving past her house, I noticed she was out for a summer stroll. As I pulled over, she cautiously

approached the car. I immediately noticed her un-kept hair, dirty teeth, and a smell that invaded my space. In spite of this, I introduced myself as her new neighbour and said, “why don’t you stop by for a coffee sometime?” She was so excited by the invitation, it really surprised me. Her elation reminded me of a small child’s glee at getting a long awaited treat. The next day she came for a visit, clutching a miniature jar of freshly picked flowers. She explained what each flower was, and it turned out that most of them were wild – what you and I would call weeds. Yet, she valued them and seemed to know the good qualities of each and how they were useful. She shared with me her love for her chickens, and would laugh hysterically when talking about ‘their sillies’. “Old Man Roosty was gonna have his head taken off one of these days because he was so bossy”, and Wee Cinnamon loved to be carried and treated like a little lady. She delighted in talking about her chickens as a Mother delights in talking about her children. That summer was the start of a special friendship and a bond that grew between us. We found out that we both shared a faith in God and this was the glue that kept us together. As she slowly opened up to me, she soon became eager to share stories that had been tucked away. Each time she visited she would bring small gifts of “flowers”, trinkets, newspaper clippings, and occasionally a sampling of her baking. I learned things about her during those visits – She couldn’t stand to see things wasted and would scour neighbors’ recycling bins for discarded jars and containers that she would find useful. Paper was cut up for notepaper, newspapers and sticks were used to start

a fire in the woodstove, and scraps of food were fed to the chickens. Nothing went to waste, both out of necessity and conviction. Eventually Christine invited me to her home. I was hesitant to go inside as the rickety steps were splattered with chicken ‘residue’ and a terrible smell came from inside. Upon reaching the open door, I realized that the chickens were already waiting for us in the kitchen. Pots and pans littered the counter and some spilled over with half eaten food rotting in them. A lone table without chairs sat in the middle of the floor, covered in dirty newspapers and clippings of various plants that were put there to dry. Jackets, each one dirtier than the next, hung in row by the door. In the far room I noticed stacks of books covered every nook and cranny of the walls and floor. Christine failed to notice the look of shock on my face as we visited that day in the kitchen. I hid it well, because I could see that she really needed a friend to accept her as she was. During the next couple of months, I began to put together the pieces of information she entrusted me with and found out that Christine was living on only $528/ month. She explained that after her father died, she lost her mother five years later. Shortly afterwards, her only sibling had severed his ties with her and she was left to look after herself. Loneliness set in, leading to depression and irrational fears that made it difficult for her to work, let alone trust anyone or ask for help. Money soon ran out and she was forced to accept welfare, which was very degrading in her mind. She lost her dignity and self respect in the process and slipped further into a world of despair. Realizing that Christine

by Katherine Bell All mothers want to provide the best for their children. Finding the perfect balance between providing care and providing financial resources can be very difficult. I’m sure every mother struggles with the same decision – whether to go to work, or be a stayat-home parent. For my first child, I chose to stay home, which came with its own sets of difficulties. Having only one income did not allow us to have two vehicles, and living in a rural area meant having no way to leave home during the day, and no extra spending money to do the things we wanted on the weekend. Even things such as clothing, toys, and sports were a struggle. I could not financially

justify having another child until 12 years later, when I was back into the workforce. I chose a job that didn’t require much notice or hassle if I needed to call in for time off, so that I would be there for my children when they needed me. There were times when I seriously contemplated being a stay-at-home mom, but I did not want to rely on someone else to take care of me again, even though, at the time, I was envious of women who could stay home and focus solely on their children and see all of their developmental milestones, such as their first steps. There were other times when I wondered if it even made sense at all to continue going to work, when so much of my pay went to daycare fees. The nature of the work I did meant I had to take lower paying jobs without the security of a pension. As my children got older and the need for my physical presence in their lives diminished, I was now faced with being older and not having higher educa-

tion, or any experience with higher paying fields. Late at night, I lie in bed wondering how different my life would have been had I decided to go to university, instead of working those low paying jobs. As women, we need to know that we are making the right choices, and that, ultimately, whatever choice me make, we need to make the best of it. The only wrong choice is making no choice at all. Too often, women make ourselves feel like failures, no matter what decision we make. Yet, ultimately, in the end, none of us are failures, because whether we choose to show our children the value of staying home and caring for them, or the value of working to financially support them, they are our children and they will know that we made the best choices possible for them. How do I know this? Both of my children are healthy and happy upstanding young men who love me, and that is all that matters!

needed help, I eventually breached the subject with her. By that point, she trusted that I cared about her and really wanted her to see the doctor. He referred her to a psychiatrist, who diagnosed her and prescribed medication that really helped her. Within a few months she blossomed, and soon began to take more time to groom herself and keep her home tidy. In spite of this, her home was in dire need of repair. The roof leaked, the windows upstairs didn’t open, the wooden exterior doors were cracked, and the furnace was not insurable according to the insurance company. Poverty had forced her to neglect her beloved home,

and now it required the attention that it had been deprived of. Together, we went to Social Services to discuss Christine’s situation and apply for Ontario Disability Support. I will never forget the day she ran to my house with papers in hand – her application had been approved and, suddenly, her income would be doubled. Even though $1,100/month is not a lot to you and I, to Christine she thought she won the lottery! ODSP could not provide money for her home, but after some research, I was able to find three homeimprovement grants that provided roof repairs, new doors, windows, and a furnace! Once the upgrades were done,

she felt like a queen in her castle. Naturally, she began to take more pride in her home and so, the chickens came in… less often. Christine and I were friends for about twelve years, until her death in 2009. Although her life was never perfect, our friendship was one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced. In her own unique, eccentric way, she gave me all that she had to give: herself. Look around you, poverty is our neighbor, and today I encourage you to give yourself to those who may need you. To the world, you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.

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March 9, 2022

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Saluting our women in business The Voice of Merrickville-Wolford

Why Libraries Matter

by Mary Kate Laphen, CEO, Merrickville Public Library When I was asked to write about the role of libraries in the community, I was at a bit of a loss. I’ve been a librarian for over 25 years, so I feel the importance of libraries right down to my socks – but it can be hard to put into words. However, let’s try… The heart of the Library’s role in the community is its mission to connect people with information and opportunities to learn – through books and other media, the internet, programs, and more – and encouraging the literacy skills and supports needed for that. Libraries are about all sorts of literacy and media, but even in our Netflix/YouTube/ TikTok world, reading is still a fundamental way that information is conveyed. Reading (however you do

it) gives endless opportunities to learn and increase our understanding. It also has personal and social benefits beyond increasing knowledge: exercising the brain, improving focus and memory, reducing stress, increasing empathy, and it’s the single best thing you can do with your child to promote school success. All of this is so important in our informationbased world, and public libraries are the way that our society demonstrates its commitment to making this freely available to everyone. And how great is it that we live in a place that values this access enough to make it a law (the Public Libraries Act)? So, libraries are about connecting to information, but today’s libraries offer so many other things (check your library’s website and

Pictured (left to right): Arielle Grakist, Ashley Duncan, Chantel LaSalle, Riley Cole

Village of Merrickville-Wolford is Proud of the Contribution of our Female Staff & Firefighters! From managers to firefighters and from financial analysts to economic development professionals, the outstanding leadership of our female staff plays a critical role in the exceptional services that we provide to the community in Merrickville-Wolford! We are incredibly proud to have women represent 44% of our full-time employees and 50% of our management team. Examples of pivotal management team roles occupied by women include our Treasurer Kirsten Rahm, Deputy Treasurer Suzanne Jackman and Manager of Community Development Stacie Lloyd, with Account Clerk Emily Morrison as well as Receptionists Karina Theriault and Meghan Swerdfager delivering our vital client-facing services.

March 9, 2022

you’ll see what I mean). Beyond that, libraries are valuable to, and valued by, their communities because they are here to help. We help people every day. Sometimes, it’s something minor, like printing an email, or a giving a book recommendation; but sometimes it’s quite important and meaningful for them. Not long ago, a woman came in looking for audiobooks for her elderly father who loved to read but was no longer able to. I told her about our DAISY reader for the visually impaired, let her borrow our demo machine, and picked out some titles to suit his rather particular interests. She ended up asking to keep it for longer than the usual loan period. When she brought it back, she told me that her father had died, but that he really appreciated the reader and it had let him enjoy books right to the end. She said how much it meant to her that she had been able to do this for him. Libraries may not be the go-to in an emergency (although they can be pretty useful in a pandemic lockdown), but the Library is here to help you. To help you find information, continue to learn, develop, or maintain literacy skills, to enjoy yourself (also important) – and to provide a welcoming space for you to do those things. The Library is a service for everyone, but is also entirely personalized. Even a small library offers a wide range of services that every user adapts into their own custom experience. On a personal note, the thing I value most about libraries is that they add a little more happiness to life. Browsing at the library and finding a good book (or video, or…), getting a call that the book you were waiting for is ready for you, letting your child loose in the kids’ department to bring home whatever they like, creating something, or just having fun at a library activity – I never get tired of helping make those moments happen. The Library is all about making life a little bit better –and what’s not valuable about that?

OFA reminds farmers to ensure accuracy of assets when renewing farm insurance

by Jackie Kelly-Pemberton, Director, OFA Farming is regularly influenced and impacted by adverse conditions and unique situations. A level of risk is also assumed within the agriculture industry, whether it’s the risk of extreme weather, supply chain interruptions or market volatility. Another form of risk that needs to be considered is potential damages to your farm business caused by fire, flooding, or other unexpected causes. Every farmer manages risk on their farm, and ensuring you have the proper insurance coverage is a form of risk management that can protect your most valuable assets. We appreciate the efforts of our grassroots members, the Leeds Federation of Agriculture and Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) representatives for taking action on addressing insurance concerns and bringing this important topic to the forefront. OFA joined together with The Co-operators to host a webinar on this subject matter in response to a resolution brought forward by Leeds Federation to OFA’s 2021 Annual General Meeting. The resolution highlighted a growing number of member concerns related to farm property insurance coverage and a lack of clarity on the issue. The webinar, which was delivered by expert representatives from The Co-operators, provided an opportunity for members to learn helpful tips on what they should know when renewing their insurance policy. The session provided beneficial information to 315 participants. This has been a great 16

example of the function of OFA’s resolution process and how grassroots involvement and input gives active direction to OFA’s Board of Directors. Opening this discussion created the opportunity for our organization to engage with benefit partners and deliver a resource that benefits our membership as a whole. A key takeaway from the presentation was to ensure members have open communication with their insurance broker to make sure you have a policy in place that is specific to your farm business. Working with an agent that has experience in dealing with farm policies is beneficial in limiting the potential for oversight on properties or assets. It is extremely important to make sure the insurance plan is right for you. That means it should be current and covers the needs of your business to prevent an unexpected loss, leaving you to deal with financial hardships. Attentional to detail when renewing your farm insurance is vital to ensuring your valuable assets are protected. Another helpful tip is to coordinate an annual checkin meeting with your broker to cover any new farm assets that have been purchased. It can be hard to keep track of new purchases but if all items aren’t listed, you risk missing out on coverage. Keep a detailed inventory of your farm assets, and remember to regularly add new equipment, machinery or buildings to your policy. Discussing farm management plans, maintenance plans and the things you do to make sure your farm is protected are also important to share with your insurance professional. Have you completed electrical upgrades? Do you have a regularly scheduled maintenance plan? Understanding your policy and providing accurate and detailed information will help you make the best decision for your coverage and could also lead to saving on insurance premiums.

With rapid advancements in farm technology, a barn built 40 years ago is nothing like a barn built today. Working with your insurance broker, you should also make sure the description of each farm asset is clear and reflects the actual worth. It is also strategic to make sure your property insurance limits reflect current market conditions to make sure an insurance payout will be enough to replace your damaged property. This webinar provided an excellent opportunity for members to actively engage in questions, comments or concerns with those working in the insurance industry with The Co-operators. Participants submitted an overwhelming number of questions, including inquiries about how insurance rates will be impacted because of increased costs due to supply chain issues, how trespassing and vandalism affect insurance and, more specifics about liability insurance. To allow the opportunity for all members to access the information, the webinar was recorded. Any member or farmer that would like to watch at their convenience can view the webinar online. Working together to address the lack of clarity on farm property insurance can ensure that more farmers are aware of how to set up adequate coverage. Although we don’t like to consider the thought of any type of loss, being prepared can help maintain financial security for the future of your farm business.

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The Voice of North Grenville

International Woman’s Day 2022 Saluting our business women

Overcoming the stereotype

by Vicki Ogilvie, Ogilvie’s Auto & Fleet Service I am Vicki Ogilvie, the co-owner of Ogilvie’s Auto & Fleet Service in Jasper, On. As a business owner in the Automotive Industry for more than 30 years, I’ve witnessed a common stereotype that ‘women don’t know anything about cars’. Even though the Automotive Industry is considered to be male dominated, this stereotype could not be further from the truth and is, fortunately, beginning to subside. Growing up, I was raised on a farm watching my dad always fix tractors and heavy

machinery. He never let my gender impact how I grew up, and always allowed me to help with chores and driving the tractors and trucks. When I met my husband, he was an automotive apprentice and loved hot rods. It didn’t take long for me to begin learning about engines, drivetrains, brakes, and anything mechanical. In our early days, we spent many years showing hot rods and building cars, which eventually led to our family now spending every summer drag racing with our two daughters. When the opportunity came for me to join the busi-

ness, it was never a question. The hardest part of my career was proving that I knew what I was talking about when it came to fixing vehicles. Once our customers realized this, I quickly became respected by them. In today’s Automotive Industry, it is very common to see women working. Whether it’s as an automotive technician, welder, shop or dealership owner, CEO of an auto parts or tire company, saleswomen, or race car driver; there is no shortage of available positions. The popularity of social media has also helped our industry immensely, providing young women with an outlet to meet and mentor successful women. As a woman in the automotive industry, I am constantly learning, and love making women feel comfortable coming to our garage. I have two daughters, in whom I have instilled the confidence to ‘be’ and ‘do’ whatever they want, regardless of their gender. I hope that, by sharing my story, other women will feel empowered to follow their passions and/or dreams, even if it goes against the norm.

Why doesn’t she just leave?

by Jordyn, Sexual Assault Support Counsellor, Victim Services Leeds and Grenville “Why doesn’t she just leave?”, a phrase often heard by outsiders looking in once they find out someone they know or love is in an abusive relationship. It’s easy to say because, truly, why doesn’t she just leave? Take your stuff and get out, it isn’t love, do it for the kids, you deserve better than that. But the fact of the matter is, it’s never as easy as “just leaving”. One very common reason is lack of finances. Abusers will often use financial abuse to impair her, making it feel like she is not capable of leavMarch 9, 2022

ing. Where would she go? We are living through a housing crisis, and with lack of affordable housing on the rise, even if housing was affordable, there just isn’t enough of it. Seeking emergency shelter at a local women’s shelter is a viable option, however bed space is limited, and shelter systems are often full with lengthy wait lists. If you are lucky enough to get in, often there are time limits on length of stays, which ends up adding even more pressure on her to find sustainable, affordable housing quickly. This may result in her feeling like it was just easier to stay, because living with an abuser is better than being homeless, right? Guilt, manipulation, and the constant picking away at her self-esteem and confidence takes away her ability to believe that she deserves more. Emotional abuse can be less visible and start off subtle. It’s not obvious, like physical abuse, but it leaves invisible scars and an empty shell of a person where she

Don’t underestimate the value of rural grandparents

by Theresa Bergeron The young are born in the digital fast world. That’s all they know…until they spend time at grandma’s house. Here, they experience a whole different world: the garden, the orchard, the livestock, and responsibilities. One grandson had the task of gathering the eggs. The first day, he was so excited because he saw a hen lay an egg. Next morning, he was taking way too long in the hen house, so I went to check. There he was, patiently and quietly standing still by the wall with his cell phone, waiting to video the laying process and send it to his friends in Alberta. Then came the day to have chicken for supper. I went with my other grandson to the barn

once stood. She may begin support women who finally to feel like this treatment is escape. And it’s always harder normal, and she did some- before it gets easier. thing to deserve it. Worst of After months or years of all, after each and every act of abuse, it can just feel easier violence, it is almost always to stay, because jumping followed up with some form through the hoops of society’s of reconciliation, where she limitations makes it feel like begins to think he might actu- it isn’t worth it. So she stays. ally be sorry, until it happens Or she leaves and goes back. again. This is known as the On average, it takes women Cycle of Abuse and, although seven tries to leave for good. it looks different in each rela- So, how can you help? Just tionship and follows a differ- being there is a good start. ent time frame for everyone, Abusers often isolate their it is a 4-part pattern that helps victim, so they feel like they to identify domestic violence, have no friends, supports, and acknowledging it is the or anywhere to go. Listen, first step in leaving it. and keep reaching out after There are so many reasons she has given up on trying. why women don’t just leave, Encourage her to reach out but, ultimately, one of the to a local women’s shelter to biggest reasons is because it's get support on how to keep dangerous. In fact, the most herself safe while she is still dangerous time in an abusive living with her abuser. More relationship is actually post importantly, be patient. It break-up, and women are 70 may seem obvious to you times more likely to be killed what she needs to do, and after they have ended the how she should do it, but relationship. Bottom line- as remember, that it’s never ever a society, we simply aren’t that simple. equipped enough to deal with domestic violence. We don’t have enough resources to 17

to catch a young rooster. He said: “Grandma, I don’t eat rooster. I eat chicken.” I explained that, when he ate chicken, he often ate roosters. “Why don’t we eat hens?” he asked. “Because hens lay eggs, and roosters don’t.” And his immediate response was: “I’m sure glad I’m a people.” The children dug up potatoes and we turned them into french fries. They picked a butternut squash that they helped turn into a pumpkin pie. They are keen observers, and one of the three noted that pumpkin pie was very healthy, with all that squash, eggs and milk. It would make a good breakfast. They went through two 10-inch quiche size pies in one week. We picked apples for fresh eating, and some became apple crisp and apple pie. They snacked on small cukes and cherry tomatoes they picked in the garden and began to recognize the food bearing plants. They learned how to pick corn when it was the sweetest, cook it in the microwave with husk on. They have seen a broody hen teach her chicks how to survive, and witnessed the birth of kids. Last year, I rented bicycles from Mr Cox in Winchester for their 2-week stay. It was good to see them play outside, climb the trees, jump on the trampoline, and bicycle in the area. In the evenings we played monopoly and rumoli. Yes, Grandma’s place is a different world. I started a permaculture

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orchard where trees and shrubs are planted in layers. At the first tree, a black locust, I started explaining that it was there because it fixed nitrogen from the air and fertilized the ground around it. So did the lupins, and both bore scented flowers that fed the bees. My 12 year-old grandson looked at me and said: “Hang on grandma, I’m going to get my notebook to write notes”. He learned that blueberries and currants like to be in the acid soil near evergreens. He noticed that most of the blossoms on the chum tree had fallen without setting fruit. “That’s because the bees are dying. A lot of our food depends on bees.” Last August, as we were on the deck pulling the elderberries off the stems to make syrup, he said: “Grandma, I’m really lucky.” “Why?”, I asked. The response I will never forget. “Because I get to spend time with you and know where food comes from.” The grandchildren return home understanding that plants take CO2 from the air, water from the rain, energy from the sun, and turn it into food for us to eat. That it is all a very delicate balance, the miracle of life. As rural grandparents, we have accumulated the wisdom of life’s cycles, and sharing it with the next generations who are detached from the land is very important. They, indeed, need to know where food comes from. Don’t underestimate your value.

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

73’s slump may be history

Breaking the losing streak…Jeff Taylor feeds Devon Savignac for a PPG during a sloppy exhibition on home ice for Friday evening’s challenge with Navan Grads to double down for 6-3 win. by the sportsguy The high flying Hawks from Hawkesbury were on home ice for the Sunday matinee to see them hold on to 4-3 after outgunning the 73’s 31 to 21. Hawkesbury opened the first with a PPG goal from Thomas Cussan, assisted by Gendron and Kirk at 7:27. A poor defensive clearing pass on to Cussan’s stick, across to William Gendron who put it home at 8:38 for a 2 goal lead. After Tyler Laureault shutdown, Jakson Kirk on penalty shot at 10:53, Kemptville gained momentum. With a man advantage at 12:10, Houle was pinching the line, over to Eastwood, to set up Devon Savignac to pull the trigger to put them within 1. Eastwood cycling low with Haughian from behind the goal line, so Brock Krulicki could tie it at 6:54 with quick backhand through Dimitri Pelekos five hole to start the second. At 8:39 Curtiss

Sturgeon jumping into the fray from Tremblay to break the tie and end the period. The tenacity of Morency and Campeau buzzing the blue paint, to Adam Cavallin in the slot to stretch the mesh at 16:02 to even the odds at 3. Unfortunately, another defensive miscue so Jakson Kirk, with helpers from Quesnel and Tremblay, could find the back of the net at 18:43 to give the Hawks the lead. Kemptville rang the iron at least 4 times, which could have caused a different conclusion. Kemptville pulled Tyler at 9:44 for extra attacker without success, and Hawkesbury squeezed a victory. Both clubs exhibited a confident PK display, with Hawk’s 4 attempts with 1 result, and 73’s 5 attempts with capitalizing on 1. Kemptville rolls up the valley to meet the Lumber Kings in Pembroke for a Wednesday evening affair.

Tyler Laureault for Kemptville, with Reece Proulx for Pembroke, received the nod on Wednesday night. Pembroke came out strong to run away with a win of 5-2, and only outshooting Kemptville by 32 to 29. Sawyer Prokopetz from Vollett with Duck to draw first blood for the Lumber Kings at 8:23. Caden Eaton, with helpers from Ebrahim and Letourneau at 13:48, to end the first with a 2 to zip lead for Pembroke. Second frame, Kemptville on the board when Taylor and Lammi combined to find Merrett on the point to hammer it home at 1:02. Pembroke on PP from Stockfish to Jesse Kirkby PPG in the lane to make a 2 point deficit at 11:13 after twenty. Last twenty, the 73’s playing catch-up, as Jack Stockfish would capitalize on a unsuccessful zone dump at :10. Brock Krulicki would glide

The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville So, last week we had a peek at a traditional Irish dish, Colcannon. This is to celebrate St. Patrick’s day, coming up on March 17. Ireland has had a troubled history when it comes to the humble potato; however, there can be no doubt that potatobased dishes are still front and centre on Irish menus. This recipe, the Irish Boxty, is no exception: it is a potato cake that is fried in a pan, as you would any pancake and, while often served at breakfast, can be a treat any time of the day. Vegetarians, take note.

Irish Boxty

Ingredients: - 1 cup of mashed potatoes - 1 cup of raw potatoes, peeled, washed and grated - 1 ½ cup of all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon of baking soda - 1 tablespoon of sugar March 9, 2022

- 1 cup of buttermilk - Butter for frying Preparation: 1. Remove the excess moisture from the raw grated potato by using a paper towel 2. In a mixing bowl, stir together all the ingredients except the buttermilk 3. Then, stir in the buttermilk to make a pancake batter 4. Melt some butter in a frying pan set on medium heat 5. Drop some batter in (the amount of batter depends on size of Boxty you want)

6. Fry and flip several times until golden brown and the raw potato is cooked 7. Serve directly from the pan, or keep warm in the oven if you are cooking ahead For added flavour, you can stir in some sharp yellow grated cheese or chopped shallots into your batter. You can eat the Boxty plain with a dollop of butter, or top it with sour cream, crème fraiche, or a fried egg (anything you want really). Talk to me at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

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from end to end to stretch the mesh at 5:10 to move the 73’s within 2. Lumber Kings countered with Michael Andrews, assisted by Vollett and Eaton, put the game out of reach at 8:43. Kemptville PP is still in a stall, as they had 6 unsuccessful attempts, with Pembroke having 1 PPG with 4 opportunities. Navan Grads were schooled by the Kemptville 73’s to a double down loss of 6-3 during Friday’s evening contest in front of home fans. Connor Blackwood and Ben West received the honours as their club’s stoppers. Haughian off the half wall up to Savignac in the slot, and Alexander Caulfield pinched in to deliver the loose change to strike first at 2:03 for the 73’s. Grads countered at 6:46 to even the odds when Nicholas Paone, assisted by Butler, found open space. Haughian dished off to Morency across to Matthew O’Doherty to launch a rocket for the tie breaker at 10:21. Kemptville with 4-minute advantage after Navan player tried to remove Hunter Brazier’s stomach without a scalpel and charged with spearing, would capitalize. Howie would command the attack on to the tape of Taylor, pushed to Devon Savignac PPG for his 28th point of the season at 16:07 to give Kemptville 3-1 lead. Taylor penetrated the line with York on PP to initiate the second, over to Brock Krulicki PPG with a backhand beauty over the sprawling stopper for the 73’s 4-1 pad. Grads took advantage of defensive errors, as Devyn Orpana with Hogue at 10:15, and then again at 15:58 from Burke, to move them within 2. Cycling high with O’Doherty combination to Morency to have Grady Logue flick a wrister top shelf at 16:51 to end the period. Navan pulled their stopper three times in the final twenty for the extra sniper, and Howie tic-tac-toe to Merrett up the wall for Hunter Brazier to snipe ENG at 19:11. Tonight’s contest was a sloppy see-saw battle with the puck reacting like a tennis ball on steroids. Sunday matinee will be a road trip into Carleton Place to challenge the Canadians. See you around the boards at the next home event on Sunday, March 13 at 2 pm, when the 73’s meet the Smiths Falls Bears. Hockey with edge..support your local sports.

#20

Ben Campeau Nickname: Camps Born: Kingston Ontario, June 27th 2004 Position: Centre Previous Hockey Club: Greater Kingston Junior Gaels U18 Hockey Hero: Sidney Crosby Most Inspiring Person: Dad Favourite Movie: Money Ball Favourite Food: Steak Favourite sport (beside hockey) : Football Favourite Hockey Moment: Upsetting Oshawa in game 5 of a playoff series in overtime Life as a Jr. A player: Awesome! One word that describes me: Competitive

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The North Grenville Times

“Congratulations to Dr. W. Gifford-Jones on reaching the tremendous milestone of his 98th birthday. He sends his very best wishes to readers for good health.”

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TIMES News Reporter Wanted The North Grenville Times is an independently owned publication serving the population of North Grenville and surrounding area. We are seeking to hire a talented and motivated journalist. Responsibilities include collecting and analyzing information of public interest and writing news articles for a weekly publication. The successful candidate will be gathering information, conducting interviews, writing articles and taking photographs of events in the local community. Please consider submitting your resume if you are a person with: • Excellent news judgment • Strengths in accurate, clean reporting • The ability to initiate stories and features • Excellent reporting and writing skills • Experience at a news organization in a deadline-oriented reporting/writing role • Ability to work quickly and independently, meet multiple deadlines, and make efficient decisions • A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle If you have your finger on the pulse of your community and you are willing to work both independently and as part of a news team, to tell this community’s stories, please submit your resume to: editor@ngtimes.ca March 9, 2022

Crispy Pork Katsudon (Japanese Pork Cutlet & Rice Bowl) Crispy breaded pork loin | Dashi Broth | Egg fried rice | Sesame Vegetables | Pot Sticker Dumplings & Sauce | Green salad with Miso Dressing Red Thai Chicken Coconut Curry Chunks of Chicken Breast braised in a Coconut Curry Sauce | Cilantro Rice | Asian Noodle Salad | Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce | Vegetables | Salad Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinated Chicken Kebabs | Greek Roasted Potatoes | Rice Pilaf | Vegetables | Village Greek Salad | Pita Bread & Tzatziki Hungarian Meatball Paprika Beef Meatballs in Creamy Paprika, Caramelized Onion & Mushroom sauce | Herbed Butter Potatoes | Buttered Egg Noodles | Veggies | Garden Salad

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St Patrick’s Irish Beef & Guinness Stew

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The Voice of North Grenville

Decarbonizing Healthcare Last week, we wrote about the environmental disaster of plastics choking the world’s oceans and the consequences for human health through the food chain. This week, let’s look through a different lens at another environmental disaster of our own making – the carbon footprint of healthcare itself. Here’s something you may not know. If the global healthcare sector were a country, it would be the fifth-largest greenhouse gas emitter! A report from Health Care Without Harm calculated that the environmental impact of healthcare amounts to 4.4% of global net emissions – the equivalent of 514 coal-fired power plants. So far, North Americans are among the main culprits. By way of example, the report notes, “The United States health sector, the world’s number one emitter in both absolute and per capita terms, produces 57 times more emissions per person than does India.” What exactly is causing all these emissions? Primarily, it is the energy consumption of healthcare facilities, healthcare transportation, and health product manufacturing, use, and disposal. It’s not easy for individuals to have clout with the healthcare industry and its complex global supply chains. But there are things everyone can do to share a sense of responsibility. First and foremost, stay healthy. If you need yet another reason to do it, this is it. Staying healthy means not using healthcare products. This will reduce your own contribution to health sector emissions. As it happens, the things that keep people healthy are the same things that protect the environment – e.g., reducing red meat consumption and walking in place of driving. Second, make use of telehealth. There are times when seeing a doctor in person is an imperative. But telehealth is proving to be a valuable component of the system. It can offer convenience, speed, ease of access, low cost, quality care, safety, and a low-carbon footprint. This is one of the great lessons of the pandemic. Third, advocate for healthcare providers to decarbonize and be environmentally responsibility. The more people

make this an issue, the more the pressure and incentives build for environmental accountability in healthcare. Here’s an example. People suffering from respiratory conditions may use metereddose inhalers (MDIs) that work based on a pressurized propellant in an aerosol chamber. Unfortunately, these propellant gases are up to 3,350 times more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping the sun’s heat! A single inhaler can release as much emissions as a small car driven for 180 miles. A typical patient may use 12 inhalers a year. Dry powder inhalers are a good alternative that can be used by the vast majority of patients. But here are the big conundrums that need innovative solutions. It’s not just older people who inevitably need more healthcare – and therein add to the emissions of the sector. It’s those who fall ill too early in life from avoidable problems. Plus, there are many people around the world who desperately need better healthcare and for whom healthcare spending must increase. To offset the impact of these deserving consumers, there’s an urgent need for a global transition to clen, renewable energy. In addition, instead of learning from the errors of developed countries where people are eating too much meat and not getting enough exercise, developing countries that achieve higher income levels are making the same mistakes. The epidemic of diabetes in North America is now a worldwide pandemic. Finally, doctors must think differently. The Hippocratic Oath implores “First, do no harm.” It’s time to include the planet, not just the patient, in the thinking. Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff. com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Baldwin's Birds

Early but still cold March

by John Baldwin I became very aware of something the other evening that I thought was unusual. When still in the vicinity of one of the small local shopping malls, having just left a restaurant accompanied by a friend at about eleven o'clock: it was the raucous cawing of some crows! I was somewhat taken by surprise and happened to mention it to him, as we walked to our separate cars. He was

as surprised as I was at hearing them too, so I have done some research on the matter, and have found out that it isn't that much of an uncommon occurrence. Amazingly, I've never really heard them doing this, at least not at this time of the year, and certainly not in a built up area. They seemed to be sitting in some nearby pine trees located near some traffic lights. Maybe it was these that disturbed them, or just the

ambient light from the street lights confusing them into thinking it was still daytime. Being quite "social" birds, they may have been warning each other of some imminent danger, such as a cat, dog, or even that an Owl was in the vicinity. If this had been the case, unless it was a very been very light and easily large owl, the aggression managed, up to now, and the would have been the other lovely sunshine makes it way round, and they would almost a pleasure. (Wow! I have been after it! The cawing must be getting "Cabin Fethat we were hearing didn't ver!"). Today I got the picture seem to be that urgent, so of the Hairy Woodpecker, whatever aroused them had as she, too, enjoyed feeding probably disappeared and in the sun, along with the allowed them to settle back Rock Pigeons, Juncos, Bluejays, Goldfinches, Mourning down again. The continuing cold has Doves, and -- how could I brought our feeders into forget them,-- six Crows!? constant use, with all our There are others too who pop regular birds visiting us on in and out, so life around here a daily basis, along with the still stays pretty interesting, as squirrels. With the snowfalls I hope your own feeders and occurring almost daily, the gardens are for you. Enjoy clearing of the paths to the and stay safe and well, Cheers, feeders has become a regular John Baldwin chore. Fortunately, from that Ad Size:10.25" perspective, the snow has

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March 9, 2022