Dec 06, 2023

These columns from our community reporters are updated every week.

Table of Contents

Arden
by Wanda Harrison

Congratulations to Sarah Hale and the Kennebec and District Historical Society for receiving first place ribbons for their Festival of Trees entries. I was also blessed with a ribbon and thank the judges for all of their work.

Santa is coming to Arden Saturday, December 9 at the Arden Legion. Kids will eat free and the Legion would appreciate a donation from the adults.

On Sunday December 10, there will be a Kids Klub fundraising Christmas market, 10am to 2pm at the Kennebec Community Centre. There will be crafts a bake table and a Silent auction. For more information contact Samantha Bradley at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Arden United Church is hosting a Family Christmas Carolling Party Saturday, December 16 at 1pm. Everyine is welcome to join in for singing, hot beverages, youth activities and maybe a visit from Santa.

If you haven’t purchased your Hockey Raffle tickets for a Toronto Maple Leafs game, and wish to, please let in touch with Jeff Matson or Lynn Klages,

The Ladies Auxiliary, Arden Branch, will be hosting a Craft and Bake sale at the Branch December 17, 10am to 4pm. For more information, get in touch with the Branch.

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Battersea/Storrington

Where does a snowman get the weather forecast? From the winternet!

This past Saturday was a busy day for Santa in and around Battersea! Over 300 guests joined him for breakfast at the Storrington Lions Hall! Thank you to South Frontenac Township for sponsoring this amazing event and thank you to The Lion's for hosting!  This club does awesome things for our community! 

Next, Santa headed north to attend the parade in Battersea! The rain/sleet/snow stopped just in time for participants and spectators to enjoy the day. Thank you to everyone that attended.  Special thanks to Kyle at the Creek for organizing the fun!

And just one more reminder for the Battersea United Church food drive. Please help if you can. Donations accepted at the Storrington Lions Hall Friday from 1-5, etransfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact Rev Heather for other ways to help This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Unique holiday shopping is available again this weekend at the Log Home Holiday Market, 2281 Sands Rd, Battersea. The market will be open Dec 9 & 10, from 10-4 both days! For more information, or to arrange a private shopping experience, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

On Friday December 8, at 7:30 pm, please plan to join The Trinity United Church Choir, with very special guests, The Frontenac Youth Choir for their evening "On the road to Bethlehem". This will take place at 6689 Road 38, Verona, and admission is so simple, a food bank donation. Enjoy an amazing evening and support such a worth cause. 

Storrington Stinger News... congratulations to the Senior Boys volleyball team!!  Out of all of Limestone District,  our boys made it all the way to the bronze medal game! Way to go Stingers, you made us proud!

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Cloyne - Northbrooke
by Nancy Skipper

The rain didn’t dampen the Christmas Spirit at our 1st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Flinton on December 1st. We would like to wish everyone all the best as we start this Christmas Season and to thank all that came out to enjoy this event with us. The cookies, hot chocolate & the fireworks were enjoyed by all! We would also like to thank all that made this possible & your donations were greatly appreciated. Weekend masses are Saturday at 7:30am and Sunday at 9am. All are welcome! Christmas begins with Christ.

If you build it, they will come and come they did! A grinch drove a tractor down Highway 41, soon his fellow neighbours came. They followed one by one to the Lions Club of Land O’Lakes. They would wait and chatter, catch up among friends. When the siren rang and the pipers pipped, the magical floats moved in turn. The tiny town of Northbrook was glowing, twinkling lights and all, some so creative that they built a real fire, a little flower power too. Each one so unique that the judges had a challenge. We asked the houses to light the path, in honour of our first night time parade.  With jingling bells, a horse and carriage pranced; a lady in a red coat, oh the President, Lynn O!  The Lions Barista was much enjoyed, smiles all around. The Holly Shoppe, a petting zoo, a Christmas village too, Santa at last. Santa said the greatest reward was the attendance at his parade, he was so proud that he left with a glowing heart and the grinch did the same. Old Tyme Christmas was a success. Mrs. Claus was glowing with pride.

Pine Meadow Residents enjoyed watching the Northbrook Santa Claus parad! Although not quite like other years, they still made the most of and the chatter after the parade was "this was the best parade yet "A special thank you to Shane from Littlebrook Farm for coming over earlier to let some residents meet your beautiful and friendly horses! Thank you for being so accommodating! Great job to everyone involved!

The Lions final event in 2023 will be the return of Santa’s Workshop on Saturday, December 9th 10-2 when everyone can experience the fun and no doubt frolicking with Santa and his elves. Please come and enjoy seeing all this wonderment through the eyes of a child.

All are welcome to the Bethel Pentecostal Church on Highway 7 in Kaladar on December 10, 2023 beginning at 6:30 for a Community Christmas Carol Sing to enjoy an evening of traditional carols and special songs. Refreshments and snacks will follow the singing.

We are happy to announce the L&A County OPP have teamed up with Limestone District School Board to have students in Grades 4-8 to “shop with a cop!” On December 12th students will have the opportunity to shop at the Cataraqui Town Centre. Transportation and lunch will be provided. Please consider a monetary donation to this amazing program providing children and families beautiful memories on Christmas morning. Cheques can be made payable to North Addington Education Centre with drop-off locations at the school in Cloyne or the L&A OPP detachment in Napanee. E-transfers are also accepted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. A big shout-out to the following businesses for their support: Bishop Lake Outdoors. Hook’s Building Centre, Nowell Motors Ltd, Bence Motor Sales.

Finnegan’s General Store and Stephanie’s Good Pizza Shop is collecting non- perishable items for the Food Bank until December 15, 2023. They have also begun the tribute tree program. A donation of 5$ or more and your loved ones name goes on the tree on an angel ornament. All proceeds to the Perth & Smith Falls District Hospital MRI fundraising campaign. They are collecting until February 14th.Let’s cover the tree!

Finnegans General store will be holding their 2nd annual customer appreciation event on Saturday, December 16th from 1:00 to 4:00. Food, drinks, and gifts for the children. Santa Claus will be there.

Joy to the World Family Concert December 17th Clair-Mill Hall 6 pm Free Admission 6598 Buckshot Lake Rd Refreshments to follow RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The residents of Pine Meadow received a very special delivery of beautiful, handmade lap blankets, one for each and every resident! Thank you so much to Bernadette Taylor and Cathy MacKenzie for your very generous donation The residents were thrilled!

December 20 at 1pm is the North Addington Education Centre Annual Christmas Concert.

Are you finished your Christmas shopping and hopefully completed it locally? No worries; The Friends of Bon Echo are excited to announce the opening of Greystones in the City at Finnegan’s General Store in Cloyne, a new extension of Bon Echo’s gift shop, Greystones. This new outlet allows community members and visitors to access Bon Echo merchandise year-round, offering a selection of Bon Echo gifts and clothing. The opening of Greystones in the City reflects our commitment to making Bon Echo’s unique merchandise easily accessible to the community, regardless of the season. We warmly invite everyone to visit Greystones in the City and explore the variety of Bon Echo items available. Proceeds from Greystones in the City go to support programming, infrastructure maintenance, and experiential improvements throughout Bon Echo Provincial Park.

Christmas Eve Mass at St. Kilian Catholic Church in Ardoch will be on Sunday, December 24th at 4:30pm and at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Flinton on Sunday, December 24th at 7:30pm. Christmas Day Mass will be at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Flinton will be on Monday, December 25th at 9am. New Years Eve Mass will be St John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Flinton on Sunday, December 31st at 7:30pm. New Year's Day Mass at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Flinton will be on Monday, January 1st at 9am Mass at St. Kilian's Catholic Church in Ardoch will be on Monday, January 1st at 11am.

Happy to welcome Henry (Hank) Hasler and his family, a Grade 8 student from North Addington Education Centre, to the Page Program at Queen's Park. From a hobby farm near Flinton to the corridors of Ontario's legislature, Hank's journey is a great example of youth engagement in our democratic process. Wishing him all the best in this exciting learning experience!

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Denbigh
Gail Fritsch

The Denbigh Griffith Lions Hall in Griffith is hosting Christmas Monster BINGO on Tuesday, December 12th with games starting at 7pm.  The annual Christmas Hamper Program is an important factor in brightening Christmas for those in our communities who need a little help.  If you are in need or know someone that should receive a Hamper call Lion Theresa Pierce 613-333-1984 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Cards on Friday, December 15 at 7pm at the Denbigh Hall.

Denbigh Recreation Committee is hosting a Stationary Christmas Parade at Heritage Park on Saturday, December 16th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.  There will be free food, beverages and Fireworks.   Everyone is welcome.  Please call 613-333-9662 if you would like to enter a float.  There is a people’s choice 1st place prize for a float.  In conjunction with the Stationary Parade there will also be the lighting of a Memorial Tree; if you would like a bulb lit in remembrance of a loved one please contact Jessica at 613-758-1226 or at Glaeser’s Store.

St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Denbigh will be having Christmas Eve Service on December 24 at 7pm.  Everyone is welcome.

Please let me know if you have any news or events you would like to see in the paper.  I would love to hear from you.

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Godfrey
Kelli McRobert

Thank you to the staff at Perth Hospital for their kindness and expertise during my procedure last week!  I was at ease before, during, and after in the hands of the entire Dr. Tom Morell team!

The Peanut Butter Challenge has begun! Let's try to win this one by dropping off peanut butter in our area!  In District 4, (that's us) you can drop it off at Hope's Store (at the tracks) in Parham or the Godfrey General Store at 38/Westport Road.  If you would like to donate and have no access to transportation, drop me a line, and I will pick it up from you or on your behalf! 

Cole Lake Christmas Breakfast will be taking place on Dec 10th at 9am....RSVP at 613-372-0302 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. located at Cole Lake FM Church at Hwy 38 and White Lake Road, Godfrey. Donations accepted for the Food Bank -optional.

There will be a drop-in Santa visit in Parham (CE building at the United Church) on Saturday, December 9th from noon to 2pm, with hot dogs, coffee, and pop—games, and pictures with Santa on offer, and a fun craft of cookie decorating.

Santa will continue to make his rounds to Nicole's Gifts at 11am on December 9th in Verona.

For the Love of Ferals cat rescue needs to purchase a gently used, reliable rescue vehicle so they can keep helping kittens and cats in need! Their goal is to raise $20,000 for this purchase. Two anonymous supporters have generously offered to contribute $2500 to match donations, so your donation will go twice as far! All donations, no matter the size, are gratefully accepted and much appreciated. https://gofund.me/318e806a

Join in for some festive Caroling at McMullen Park (Verona) on Saturday, Dec 9th from 7-8 PM while enjoying hot chocolate, cookies, singing, bonfire, and more....

There's snow much to do in South Frontenac this winter! From holiday markets and festive events to unique outdoor experiences and family festivals, check out our 25 Things to Do in South Frontenac winter edition. Be sure to pick up a printed copy from one of our local retailers for your fridge https://www.southfrontenac.net/25-things-to-do/

It's time to get lit, #southfrontenac! That's right, the SF Shines Holiday Lights Contest is back! Enter by December 11th or nominate your neighbour by December 8th for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a local business! There are some great displays in our community this year and we'd love to see them! Visit www.southfrontenac.net/contest for more info, to enter, or to nominate your neighbour.

Thanks to the organizers of the Festival of Trees on a fun event this past weekend!

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Harlowe
Marie White

No column; check back next week!

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Harrowsmith
Gregg Hamelin

Thank you everyone for buying my warm knitted things.  I will be taking $192.00 to the food bank on Monday.  Thanks to the One Stop store and Foodland in Sydenham for letting me display and sell my knitting - Brenda Crawford.

Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 11am the New Leaf LInk participants present the Christmas Percussion Story in the Harrowsmith Free Methodist Church Gymnasium.  Join us for Christmas Carols and a light lunch at 12:30pm after the performance.  Please RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

Friday, December 8, 2023 "On The Road to Bethlehem" Trinity United Church Choir and Friends with special guest The Frontenac Youth Choir.  Starting at 7:30pm.  Trinity United Church, 6689 Hwy 38, Verona.  Entrance by Food Bank donation.  

Friday, December 8, 2023 Youth Dance at the Golden Links Hall in Harrowsmith from 7 - 9:30 for public school children.  Cost is $6.00.  For information call 613-372-2410.  

Sunday, December 10, 2023 the Olde Tyme Fiddlers Open Mic at the Golden Links Hall in Harrowsmith, from 1 to 5, followed by dinner.  Cost is $15.00 and please bring a dessert to share.  For information call 613-372-2410.  

Thursday, December 14, is the 2023 South Frontenac Holiday Brunch for Volunteers at the Verona Free Methodist Church, 6804 Hwy 38, Verona.  Celebrating our volunteer achievements, meeting other volunteers and participating in holiday trivia from 9:30 to 11:30am.  

Saturday, December 16, 2023 is the Children's Christmas Party at the Harrowsmith S and A Club at the S and A Hall in Harrowsmith from 11am until 1:30pm. Come and see Santa and stay for a free lunch. Donations gratefully received.

Sunday, December 31, 2023 Rock in the New Year with favorite DJ's Mark n Shirley, Golden Links Hall Harrowsmith.  Doors are open at 20:00 PM.  Hot meal served at 23:00.  Bus ride home is available.  Cost is $30.00 per person.  Limited number of tickets being sold.  For tickets and information please call 613-372-2410. 

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Henderson
Jean Brown

My word, this is an exciting time of year with parties and events galore!! 16 Golden Girls took in the Tweed Festival of Trees followed by lunch at the Iron Rooster. Later in the week, 21 Old Pharts men’s group gathered at the North of 7 for a most delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings, concluding with a presentation of flowers to leader Pam Lemke.

This Sat. Dec. 9 our Lions Club of Land O’Lakes are hosting Santa and his elves in a workshop for children and their parents/guardians from 10- 2 at their hall in Northbrook. Come and rock on with the elves, make memories with Santa, receive some gifts and prepare to blow Christmas into funland.

This Sunday Dec. 10 Harlowe Wesleyan Church offers a special music morning to the glory of God at 11am featuring Ron Lemke (guitar) and special guest Brooke Gunsinger (banjo). Pot luck lunch to follow.

Land O’Lakes Emmanuel United Church in Northbrook offers worship this Sunday Dec. 10 at 10am with worship leader Siobhan Flinn, who will also be leading on Christmas Eve Dec. 24 at 10am.

Councillor Nicki Gowdy of our Central Frontenac Township has issued a Christmas peanut butter food bank challenge as a way to help out the Food Bank. If you are able please donate a jar of peanut butter and to make it more interesting they will see which district can collect the most jars of peanut butter (any size). Drop off locations are as follows District 1 Arden Post Office, District 2 still need a location, District 3 Central Frontenac Township Office and District 4 Hope’s Store in Parham! Let’s see how much peanut butter we can donate and brighten up Christmas for everyone.

Our Pine Meadow people received a thrilling Christmas delivery of beautiful, handmade lap blankets with thanks to Bernadette Taylor and Cathy MacKenzie whom we thank for the generous donation.

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Inverary
by Judy Borovskis

Line Dancing from 7 to 8pm every Monday night at the Storrington Lions’ Hall. The cost is $5. Contact Crystal to reserve your spot: 613-453-6303.

Christmas Baskets! Please consider donating a turkey to Battersea United Church for the annual Christmas baskets. Lots of storage room at Inverary or Battersea churches.

Rotary Cash Calendars on sale! Great Christmas gifts. Cash prizes. Available at Mrs. Garrett’s Bakery, Inverary Pharmasave and Maple Country Home and Farm. All yours for $20.

The Log Home Holiday Market 2281 Sands Rd, off Battersea Rd. December 9, 10th from 10-4. For info or if you'd prefer private shopping - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

On The Road to Bethlehem presented by Trinity United Church Choir & Friends with special guests The Frontenac Youth Choir on Friday December 8th at 7:30 pm at Trinity United, Verona. Admission: Bring a donation for the Food Bank.

Food Bank Drive Collection from 1 to 5pm on Friday, December 8th at Storrington Lion’s Hall. 26 families in this area will be receiving Christmas Baskets. The wish list is: white bread, brown bread, cheese, eggs, butter, bacon or small hams, gravy, coffee, tea, cereal such as Rice Krispies and Cheerios, crackers, ketchup, relish, mustard, dish soap, white sugar, cookies, peanut butter, jam, Kleenex, spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, toothbrushes and toothpaste, stove top stuffing, soup, a turkey (any size), small cooked hams. We have freezer space. Many thanks! More info This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or message Storrington Pastoral Charge through Facebook.

Attention Youth! December 9th , Four Rivers Youth Cluster will have fun at Crafts with Andi from 1 – 2:30 at Inverary Church Hall. Free event for ages 7 to 12. RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Volunteer Luncheon Sunday, December 10th from 11:30am – 1pm at the Storrington Centre in Sunbury. Open to all South Frontenac residents who volunteered their time in the past year. Free event. To reserve your ticket or for more information call Amanda Pantrey at 613-376-3027 ext. 4447 or  www.southfrontenac.net/volunteer 

Crystallize Music Studios Presents: Christmas Community Carolling ~ Inverary United Church Sanctuary  Dec 17th, 2pm. All welcome! Admission: donation to the Storrington Pastoral Charge Food Bank.

Soulful Singing at 5339 Battersea Road, Battersea on Monday, December 18th. Dress warm for the outdoors. Enjoy the campfire. Bring a snack. Wear your mask. Cost is $10. RSVP at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 613-353-2889.

Christmas Services for Storrington Pastoral Charge - December 24th services will be at Battersea United Church with a Family Service at 4pm and a Traditional Service at 7pm.

December 31 is regular service times, 9:15 at Battersea and 11:15 at Inverary.

Sing goodbye to 2023 with Chris Murphy in concert at Inverary United Church on December 31 at 2pm. Free will offering. Everyone welcome!

Pickleball Courts available at Storrington Lions Club. Call 613-353-6920 to book yours!

Hall Rentals: Inverary Church Hall – contact Judy Borovskis 353-1768 or cell: 613-545-5017. Battersea Church hall – contact Roberta Smith 353-2846.

VON SMART Exercise & Fall Prevention Classes Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30am to 10:30am at the Storrington Centre. To register call Danielle McTaggart at 1-800-301-0076  ext 3414.

Yoga class every Wednesday evening at 6pm at Inverary United Church Hall.

Storrington Retirees Luncheon at the Storrington Centre the second Wednesday of each month. Enjoy a home cooked meal. Everyone welcome!

EarlyOn offers free programs for parents & caregivers with children ages birth to 6 years. Programs have a pre-registered format. Sign up in advance at https://www.keyon.ca/en/.

For more info call Marcie Webster at 613-279-3151 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Maberly-Bolingbroke
Karen Prytula

ABC Hall’s Wilton Cheese orders that were placed by November 30 will be available for pick up at the ABC Hall from 1 to 3pm on Saturday, December 9. Payment by cash or cheque payable to ABC Hall when you pick up your order. Come for the cheese, stay for the Jingle Mingle. Thanks, we hope you can join us for some Christmas cheer!

Bridge Games at ABC Hall – Every Monday afternoon (except holidays) 1:30 to 3:30pm. Cost is $5 for hall maintenance. Beginners are welcome. FREE lessons are available upon request. For more information contact Freda This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. To learn more about playing the game go here: https://bicyclecards.com/how-to-play/bridge/

Mahjonng At ABC Hall – Every Thursday afternoon, 1pm, Cost is $5 at the door toward hall maintenance. For details see: https://abchall.ca/fun-games/

Enjoy a fun evening playing with fellow musicians on Thursdays at 7pm at the ABC Hall. All genres welcome! $5 at the door toward hall maintenance. For details see: https://abchall.ca/music-for-education-enjoyment/

Archives Lanark invites you to their Christmas Open House. They will have their rural school books series for sale, and used books for sale for the history buff on your list. Visit, explore and enjoy some Christmas treats with your friends at Archives Lanark December 9, 10am – 3pm, Archives Lanark Office, 1920 Concession 7, Drummond Centre. Archives Lanark is a charity run by volunteers only and ALL proceeds go to preserving Lanark County’s documentary heritage.

Book Launch – Lanark County Genealogical Society invites you to the launch of two new books; “Lanark County Routes Vol. 3 East” and “Lanark County Routes Vol. 4 West”. These volumes present a captivating collection of our county’s farm histories and are an essential addition to any book enthusiast’s collection. Learn about Lanark County’s agricultural heritage with this compelling collection of farm histories. The East book contains information on 72 farms and an index of around 3,000 individuals, while the West book provides information on 94 farms and an index of approximately 2,800 individuals. Additionally, the books feature the 1890 Farmer’s Directory of each of the former townships, along with useful maps. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating stories of these hardworking and dedicated families. These two books compliment the two books already published in 2021 “Lanark County Routes Vol. 1 East”, and “Lanark County Routes Vol. 2 West”. The books are hard-covered and are $65.00 each. All funds raised will be allocated towards preserving the heritage and family histories of Lanark County, all curated by volunteers of this charity. Saturday, December 9, 1:30 – 4pm, Mississippi Mills Library – Almonte Branch.

AFTER the book launch, either of these two books will be available for sale via cash only sales at Impression Printing in Smiths Falls, and at Perth, and at the Lanark Era office in Lanark Village.

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Mississippi
by Pearl Killingbeck

November 24th - I have been in hospital 158 days by Sunday. Alice was in on Friday afternoon and brought in my North Frontenac News and some perfect size and sweetness bananas. I will share with my bedroom pal Barb Agnew. The bananas we get in here are cold and frozen. Bev and Murray Elliott were in for a small but great visit. So nice to see you guys. On Saturday, Pam and Sharon (my daughters) were in for a visit with roast beef sandwiches, pineapple upside-down cake, bread and butter pickles. So yummy. Sharon made sweet and sour meatballs for my supper. We had timbits and coffee. Great visit, great food, great family. I won’t be hungry for a while.

I want everyone to know I appreciate all the good things I’ve been given in my life. I’m so lucky to have such a great family and friends. Jim Riddell brought Harriet in for a visit on 23rd while Bev Ladurantaye was already here. Bev is not in very good shape, she can hardly get around.

Now my face, feet and toes are all swollen. I thought it could be gout on my foot but I hope not (it wasn’t).

Sunday – no visitors from outside but we had visits from other patients here. Marie Benedict who was married to Lila Steele’s grandson Jimmie and Marg Whan who was in Sharbot Lake Retirement Residence when I was there. Her daughter Dianne told us she was in here so we waited until Monday to see her as she was tired on Sunday. We are meetings lots of people in here from our area.

On Tuesday, my face and feet are swelling and they figure it is from a pill I’ve been on for a long time. My right eye went completely black for 15 minutes so they are checking to see why that happened. I’ve been so tired for the last 3 or 4 days. Don’t know why – just exhausted!

They brought a keyboard into our room so Barb can play it for her hand exercises. She has played some hymns, some Elvis songs and some carols. We love it.

On November 26th in the afternoon, Christine from Sharbot Lake Retirement Home and Andy (the owner) stopped in for a visit. It was great seeing you guys again. Also, Marty Whan stopped in for a wee visit on his way home after visiting Marg. I did not know that Marg had been in hospital for so long or I would have visited before now. Get well soon Marg Whan and Marie Benedict.

Quiet day on Tuesday 28th. We had no visitors so Barb and I visited with Marg and Marie and Shev Pollard (patient). Also Carol Raymo stopped in for a wee visit. She was taking Paul Raymo home. Get well soon, Paul.

Pam brought in my cancer treatment package and had a visit and some chili from Tim’s with bun, coffee. It was so good. Nancy Hertendy stopped in just to say hello (Marg Whan is her mom). It was great to visit with all these ladies, although it has been years since I’ve seen them.

On Wednesday, Connie McLellan came to visit Marg and me and brought in a lovely pizza - all dressed, and made from scratch. Both the visit and the pizza were good.

Alice is here a day earlier than usual (Thursday) so this is all the news for this week.

News from Snow Road Community Centre: A full house enjoyed the last live music event for 2023. Turpin’s Trail put on a great show. The Community Centre is hosting coffee morning on Friday, December 8th in honour of Harriet Riddell’s 90th birthday from 10 until noon with a special presentation planned for 10:15. The December/Christmas Social Dinner will be on Wednesday, December 13th.

News from Snow Road Snowmobile Club: The Christmas craft/vendor event is this Saturday at the clubhouse. They always have great gift ideas and great refreshments.

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Ompah
by Linda Rush & Marily Seitz

Santa delivered gifts at the Children's Christmas Party at the Clar-Mill Hall last Saturday.  The  children excitedly opened their presents, Michelle took pictures, elves led crafts and served refreshments, and the hall was abuzz with Christmas cheer. Later that evening, the Santa Claus Parade started in Ompah and traveled along Hwy 509 and 506 to the Township Office.  Many folks came out to wave and delight in the floats and fire trucks. Thanks to Dylan and Michelle for organizing these exciting North Frontenac Christmas traditions.

The annual Cookie Exchange will be held this Saturday, December 9 at the Ompah Community Centre.  All are welcome to bring their favorite Christmas cookies and exchange them for the favorites others bring. Bring your cookies in a tin(s) at 10, put them on platters on the table then at 10:30, fill your tin to go home with wonderful Christmas sweets.

The December Birthday Bash Pot Luck Dinner will be held on Sat, Dec.20 at 6.  Everyone is welcome to bring a dish to share and a toonie (or more).  Come decked out in your best Christmas gear. There may even be some carolling.  Everyone is welcome.  Contact Marily at 613-267-8980 for more information.

The Christmas lights are aglow again at River Hill Farm on Struthadam Road from dark til 9pm.  If you have not seen this fabulous display, make it a point to put it on your calendar.

There are boxes in the foyer of the hall for donations of nonperishable healthy foods to be delivered to the Food Bank.

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Parham-Tichborne
by Christine Teal and Colleen Steele

Wow, December already!!!

What an array of beautiful trees and other items at the Festival of Trees.  Must have been hard to judge as everyone was worthy of 1st place.  The most meaningful and touching one was the one from GREC parent council, dedicated in memory of one special lady, Tammy Scott, to be donated to the Scott family later.  The ornaments of buses, names of villages, and special family photos were so beautifully displayed.  What a great way to honour one of their favourite bus drivers.

Unfortunately, due to the weather last Sunday, District #4 Recreation Committee had to cancel their Santa Parade - in its place we will be doing a Drop in Visit with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 9 from noon until 2 at the CE Building at 1035 Wagarville Road in Parham.  Drop in and play some games, visit with Santa and have our picture taken, maybe enjoy a hot dog, coffee or hot chocolate!  Don't forget your food bank items as well as your letters for Santa to put in the mail box!  We will also be holding a raffle on a Grogu donated by Susan Wulf - so bring some cash so that you can try your luck!!  See you there!

Have you heard about the Peanut Butter Challenge?? Central Frontenac Township have issued a Christmas peanut butter food bank challenge as a way to help out the North Frontenac Food Bank.  If you are able please donate a jar of peanut butter to the food bank! To make it more interesting, they will see which district can collect the most jars of peanut butter (any size).   Drop off locations are as follows District 1 Arden Post Office, District 2 still need a location, District 3 Central Frontenac Township Office and District 4 Hope’s Store in Parham!  Let’s see how much peanut butter we can donate and brighten up Christmas for everyone.

Thinking of you to Marg Whan and John Rutherford from the Seniors Residence in Sharbot Lake.

If you get any Christmas Cards this year, be sure to save the cancelled stamps as the Parham United Church is still saving them.  Please remember to leave a little border on them.

Happy birthdays to those celebrating in December - Joel Gray, Sharon Quinn, Lisa Hamilton, Josh Neadow, Steven Steele, Lisa McLellan, Derrick Hole, Jen MacPherson, Jodi Allen, Joe Sproule, Wray Gillespie, Jean Brown, Dawson McLellan, Michael Morrow, Mya Wolfe, Bruce Teal, Ryah Goodfellow, Bill Lower, RIchard Hartwick, Louise Lee, Nicki Leclair, Amanda Neadow, Stirling Hamilton, Madison Courtney, Shelley Hamilton, Viv Lowery, Terri Lynn Ducharme, Cheryl Bertrim, Ilona Cox, Wendy Sproule, Brad Gibson, Amanda Hamilton, Jim Steele, Aaron LaPointe, Virginia Hamilton, Joe Mallette, Vicki Babcock, Ralph Lowery, Tanner Meeks, Tyson Thompson, Natasha Emer, Jess Quinn, Tiffany Thompson Redmond, Lorne Hamilton, Whitney Lowery, Brittany Bertrim and Grant Thompson.  Happy anniversary to Allan and Jean Brown Gurnsey!

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Perth Road
by Peter Bird

No column; check back next week!

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Plevna
by Rhonda Watkins

Last Saturday night, good cheer and holiday spirit was shared all the way down Hwy 509 from the Ompah Community Centre in Ompah right to the Township Office on Hwy 506 in Plevna! Thank you to everybody that organized and participated in the parade and made it so festive for our community!

19 people came out to Euchre last Tuesday for a fun night of cards and socializing! Congratulations to Colleen R. for winning the high score prize of 73, Donna C. for winning the most lone hands with 6 and Rochelle D. went home with the consolation prize. Thank you to everybody  for your donations to the Holy Trinity Anglican Church! 

If you are looking for a holiday treat, Clarendon Public School’s Christmas concert will be held Wednesday, December 13th at 6pm  Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy what is sure to be a wonderfully fun and festive evening! 

Don't forget to stop by the Plevna liquor store and check out all the Christmas gift ideas! There is also a clearance shelf with items that are marked down 30 percent! WOW!! 

Did you hear about the 12 books of Christmas at the Plevna library? Come in and get a library card (if you don't already have one) and we can pick out 12 special books or movies (or I can surprise your whole family and pick them out). They will be wrapped up and ready for you to take home and put under your tree for your family to enjoy each night leading up to Christmas! Just remember to return them after Christmas and one pack per family! Please call 613-479-2542 for more info on Tues and Thurs from 2-6 or Fri and Sat from 10-1. Happy Holidays from the Plevna library branch!!

Keep Saturday, December 16th available to come on out to River Hill Farm & Fine Foods at 1311 Struthadam Road off River Road in Ompah! Along with Lonnie Watkins Tree Service, there will be a fabulous fireworks display to compliment the 150,000 beautiful Christmas lights!! Remember that the lights are on every night from 5-8pm and you are invited every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night until December 30 from 5-8pm for holiday wagon rides and of course their infamous fresh hot delicious mini donuts!! Each year River Hill adds to the displays to make it even more enjoyable for us, so if you can make a donation on site, you are actually contributing to an even more impressive light show for future visitors!! For further details you can call 613 282-3276.

On Sunday, December 17th you are invited to a "Joy To The World" Family Concert at 6pm! Followed by refreshments at the Clar-Mill Hall in Plevna. Free admission and for more info you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Sydenham
by Karen Brawley

PEANUT BUTTER CHALLENGE - Start spreading the news. It’s a Krafty idea... Peanut Butter is an excellent source of protein and a staple in most homes.

The amazing folks over in our neighbouring Township of Stone Mills have been challenging their community to donate peanut butter. So I decided to help out our local Foodbank this holiday season. Seeing as how it’s the season for Christmas parties and such, challenge your guests, co workers, neighbours, etc to grab some peanut butter and drop it off at one of the donation locations. It will be collected and delivered to the SFCSC FoodBank. I’m still looking for some help with donation spots in other hamlets of South Frontenac to make it easier for people to participate. Huge thank you to those businesses and residents who have offered drop off locations, you guys are awesome.

SOUTH FRONTENAC RESIDENTS - are you up to a challenge? Let’s help out our local Food Bank by donating a jar of peanut butter or even get jamming with some jam or jelly. You can be part of the challenge by dropping off at one of the locations listed below - are we nutty enough to make this happen? Please check the dates on your donations. Spread the word. Let’s go nuts!!

Sydenham: The One Stop, Lenny’s Deli, Amy’s Family Hair - 4262 Sydenham Road, My house @ 4450 Portland Avenue; Harrowsmith: The Hinch’s house - 3679 Murvale Road (driveway drop off location); Verona: Nicole’s Gifts, Food Less Travelled;Hartington; 1079 Bauder Road (kids playhouse in driveway); Inverary: 4007 Round Lake Road (drop box outside)

Any other locations willing to help out within South Frontenac, please contact me either by phone 613-376-9848 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

SFCSC is holding a 50/50 draw you can find the info to buy your tickets by visiting their website at www.sfcsc.ca.

Don’t forget to save the date: Karaoke at Sydenham Legion, Dec 15 at 7pm, hosted by Tom Gard of All-Star Karaoke. Guranteed to be an entertaining evening. $5 cover charge to help offset the cost of karaoke rental. Tune up your vocals, grab your ear plugs and come out and sing. If karaoke isn’t your thing, upstairs has drop in darts that evening from 7-9pm, $3 for legion members, $5 for non-members. All welcome.

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Verona
Debbie Lingen

Trinity United Church proudly presents On The Way to Bethlehem on Friday, December 8 at 7:30pm. Join them for their annual evening of carols and Christmas music with the Trinity United Church Choir and friends. Special guest will be the Frontenac Youth Choir. Admission is with a food bank donation. Trinity United Church, Verona.

Enjoy caroling in McMullen Park on Saturday, December 9 from 7 to 8pm. Come and join in the singing, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies around a bonfire!

Santa Claus visits Verona on Saturday, December 9 from 11am to 2pm. Santa will be located in the Revell Ford Drive in. Free photos by Lezlie Babcock photography. Free gift from Santa. Thanks to Nicole's Gifts for arranging this special event.

Style Revival Clothing Center will be open Saturdays December 9 and December 16 from 10am to 1pm. Style Revival provides gently used clothing - free of charge. They are also open every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm.

Frontenac Farmers Holiday Market will be held this Saturday, December 9 from 3pm to 7pm. at Centennial Park in Harrowsmith. Shop for holiday foodstuffs and gifts.

Enjoy a Verona Lions breakfast on Saturday, December 16 from 8:30am to 11am. Adults $10 and kids from 8 to 11 years old $5.00 (Correction from last week's column. Adult dinner is $10).

Once again this year there will be a free turkey dinner on Christmas Day at the Verona Lions Hall. Doors open at 10:30, dinner will be served at noon. To reserve your spot call 613 374 2884 or 613 374 3406.

Lace up your skates for public skating over the holiday break on December 27 from 10am to 11:30am and December 29 from 12:30 to 3pm. The 29th is a special FREE skate with free hot chocolate and coffee courtesy of the township to cap off their 25th anniversary. Frontenac Community Arena.

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