Feb 21, 2024


These columns from our community reporters are updated every week.

Table of Contents


Arden
by Wanda Harrison

A big thank you is extended to the following groups that made the Heritage/Family Day weekend so enjoyable: The Kennebec and District Historical Society, Friends of the Frontenacs, District 4 Rec Committee, the Arden Seniors, G. E. Matson and Sons, the Kennebec Rec. Committee (brunch, Tai Chi and Rink), the Arden Legion, Kennebec Lake Association, and District 3 Rec Committee. Hope they will return next year for a repeat performance!!

There will be an 80’s movie night with a double feature Friday, February 24 at the Kennebec Community Centre. The movies for the evening will be “Batteries not Included “and “The Goonies” starting at 5:30pm. Both of these movies are PG rated.

Arden United Church is putting on a "Music for a Sunday Afternoon” concert on Feb 25th, 2pm 1076 Railway St, Arden. Come enjoy a special selection of beautiful music (requested by people in the community) performed by a variety of musicians and vocalists that promises to bring joy, love and fond memories to warm your heart on a cold winter's day.  Followed by snacks, coffee and tea social. Free will donation gratefully accepted.  (100% donation goes to the church)

Coffee hour at the Arden United Church continues on Thursday morning. There will be a Stewards meeting Monday, March 11 at 7pm.

The Arden Legion is planning a St. Patrick’s Day dinner, Saturday March 16, 5pm to 7pm, at the Branch. The meal will consist of Shepherd’s Pie, beef stew, rolls, coleslaw and dessert. Tickets are $20.00 per person and can be purchased at the Branch, C4 Convenience and the Sharbot Lake Pharmacy.

Happy belated Birthday to Ray Fletcher celebrating is 80th year.

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Battersea/Storrington

What do you call a snowman who bakes?  Frosty the dough-man!

Once again, Storrington Lions Club is supporting our local food bank, with a food drive on Friday, February 23rd, from 1-5pm. As always, please contribute what you can. The need for the food bank doesn't go away just because the holidays are over!

Hockey Day in Battersea was a resounding success... As usual!  Thanks to Kyle for organizing this fun family event! Each year, proceeds from the tournament are donated to a local worthy cause. This year, HDIB is supporting a local family whose young daughter is receiving treatment at CHEO. The money will be used to offset travel costs, meals and whatever else this family needs!  Donations are still being accepted at The Creek. Please reach out to Kyle at 613-353-1102 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The South Frontenac event on Monday was awesome with about 600 people attending. So many young families took part in all the activities. Big thank you to the volunteers who braved the nippy weather to ensure the event was a huge success!

Mark Wednesday, March 27th on your calendar!  Come out to the Storrington Centre at 7pm for an evening of oral history! Learn how the villages of Storrington began and hear stories from some of our local seniors of days gone by.  Admission is free. 

A message to Michelle in Parham... 99 days to go!  You are down to double digits! 

The Not So Amateur Amateurs are holding a fun fundraiser on Saturday, Feb 24th from 10:30am-2pm - 4750 Latimer, Rd Inverary (Money raised will support young people's theatre.) There are tons of garage sale items at amazing prices. So amazing that you choose the price... That's WILD! You give a donation and take away these items - Hurray!!! And there is MORE... It gets WILDER! There is a local author doing book signings.

There will also be some food and craft items for sale including: honey, cotton candy, jewelry, gemstones, artwork, and more!!! There will be face painting, ballooning, and portrait drawing. There will be card and/or palm reading. A vendor will be doing feather hair extensions and has glitter hair options. There will be prizes. There will be games, crafts, and colouring. Chess games for whomever wants to participate - challenge our champions :) The amazing Yo-Yo Dave will be juggling from 11:30-12:30. The melodic voice of Darla will be featured later in the event.

Don't miss this fun activity - a great way to add some excitement to a wintery Saturday :)

Storrington Stinger News: A huge congrats goes out to our Sr. Boys Basketball team for their win against Prince Charles Public School last Tuesday night! The boys played well and demonstrated great team work and skill! The energy was high and great to see! Way to go, Stingers! Our Boys and Girls teams head into their Basketball tournaments this week at Queen's University! Good luck to all of our student athletes!

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Cloyne - Northbrooke
by Nancy Skipper

A Valentine’s Day potluck lunch at Finnegan’s General Store was held on February 14th. Food and friendship by sharing a meal is one of the best ways you can show others you care. Thank you to those who came and brought something for the group to share. Lots of great conversation and sharing of ideas!

Pine Meadow residents enjoyed live entertainment by “Just us Two” at their Valentine’s Dance followed by a “Couples Valentine’s Dinner” where spouses were invited to join their partner for an intimate, catered dinner together. Residents received beautiful handmade cards from Veteran Affairs Canada as well as valentine vases made with love from the “Golden Girls”! Last but not least, a generous donation of Valentine’s goodies and knitted crafts for all from Joyce Fowler and Michelle Hannay! There was definitely love in the air on Valentine’s Day!

Lakeside Inn Motel, Restaurant & Bar will be hosting their monthly Open Mic on February 24th. For more information, please call 613- 336-9054 or go to www.thelakesideinn.ca.

Fire Fighters pancake breakfast on March 2nd from 8am to 11am. Proceeds raised will go towards the NAEC busing for extra curricular activities. Kids $5 Adults $10. Cash only. If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mark your calendars for the following Land O’Lakes Lions events: On Saturday, February 24th you will find them at their information booth at the Plevna Winterfest. See what they are all about, how they help the community, and become a member.

News from Lakeside Inn Motel, Restaurant & Bar: Safety first! Hey!!! We're trying to organize a local First Aid Certification Course! Having basic first aid skills can make a significant difference in emergency situations. This course will cover essential techniques and knowledge to handle emergencies effectively. If you're an employer needing to get staff recertified or if you're a community member who does want to drive to Belleville, this is your chance! Interested in joining us and becoming certified in first aid, please drop us a message! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like more information. Let's work together to ensure everyone feels secure and well-prepared in any situation. $180 per person per course- 2 days of class instruction. 15 spots available!

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Denbigh
Gail Fritsch

Hopefully everyone enjoyed the winter weekend and Family Day, and had some time to visit with family or friends.

Denbigh Rec Committee is hosting cards on Friday, February 23 at 7pm at the Denbigh Hall.  Come join the fun!!

Denbigh Rec Committee is hosting a Family Fun Day on Saturday, February 24th at the Addington Highlands Community Centre in the gym from 1 to 3pm.   There will be snacks, activities, board games and lots of great fun. 

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Godfrey
Kelli McRobert

Are you interested in being involved in Open Farm Days 2024? Join the County of Frontenac in the follow-up planning session on Tuesday, February 27, 9:30am to 12:30pm at the library community room in Sydenham,  4412 Wheatley Street.

Thank you to Kyle Andrews for his handyman services!

Congratulations to South Frontenac Township. Call2Recycle Canada, Inc. has named the township as a 2023 Leader in Sustainability. Each year, the Leader in Sustainability Award is granted to organizations that display exceptional commitment to the environment and responsible battery management. The Township collected and diverted 2,310 kilograms of batteries from landfills in 2023, making it one of the program’s top-performing partners.

Thanks to CF Roads & Grounds for getting some gravel added to White Lake Road and CF & SF for getting the main roads cleaned up quickly!!

Well done to the District #4 Recreation Committee on their well-attended activities this past weekend to celebrate Family Day and the Heritage Festival -games, chili, hot dogs, and beaver tails while you skate!

Did you know that the Cole Lake Free Methodist Church offers activities that are free and open to the community to join in? They have everything from Ladies Study on Wednesday nights, Men’s Study on Thursday nights, community breakfasts, March Break day camp, and more!!! Any questions or to RSVP for the March Break day camp please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Harlowe
Marie White

No column; check back next week!

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Harrowsmith
Gregg Hamelin

Brenda Crawford took another $90 over to the Food Bank from her sale of "warm things". Once again, thanks to the sellers and the buyers.

Thanks to Mr. Giles for picking up garbage on his walks around the village of Harrowsmith. Much appreciated!

South Frontenac has been named by Call2Recycle Canada Inc, as a 2023 Leader in Sustainability. This award is granted each year to organizations that display exceptional commitment to the environment and responsible battery management. The township collected and diverted 2,310 kilograms of batteries from the landfill.

South Frontenac is hiring students for summer positions. Hiring more than forty (40) positions. The deadline to apply is February 25, 2024.

Delicious maple syrup for sale in 1 litre jugs for $22, 2 litre jugs for $38 and 4 litre jugs for $70. Pickup locations in Harrowsmith, Verona, Sydenham, Kingston or Gananoque on March 3, 2024. All proceeds go towards the New Leaf Link programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Order today at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Saturday, February 24, 2024 there will be a Benefit Dance "Fight the Fight" at the Sydenham Legion, 4361 Amelia Street for the family of Darryl Silver of the Silverbrook Garden Centre. Doors open at 7pm. Music by Still Standing starts at 8pm. Tickets available at the One Stop and the Legion.

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 there is a Painting Workshop, theme: “Maple Syrup” at the Sydenham Legion Hall, 4361 Amelia Street, Sydenham from 1 - 3pm. Age 55+ beginner to experienced painters welcome. Canvas, paint and brushes provided for a $5 donation. Bring an apron, paper towels and a sense of fun! Registration is required - call Natalee Lennox at 613-376-6477 ext 310 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Friday, March 1, 2024 there is a Youth Dance at the Golden Links Hall in Harrowsmith for Public School children from 7 to 9:30pm. Cost is $7. For information, call 613-372-2410.

Sunday, March 10, 2024 will be the Old Tyme Fiddlers Open Mic at the Golden Links Hall in Harrowsmith from 13:00 to 17:00 PM followed by dinner. Cost is $15.00. Please bring a dessert to share. For information, call 613-372-2710.

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Henderson
Jean Brown

Our Pine Meadow people hosted a yummy Super Bowl bash while cheering on the teams. As well, Cupid visited, along with the Golden Girls and their well decorated resident treats.

Our Frontenac Addington Trappers Council really did us proud at the Matson farm Heritage event on the weekend, and also the Kennebec Heritage Group’s fantastic displays made us all enthused to know the organizers. Just down the road, the Kennebec Lake Association offered winter fun as well, while at the Legion our own Councillor Cindy Knight-Kelsey rocked the karaoke, making for a truly memorable Heritage Weekend. Councillor Lynn Klages was also spotted serving waffles to enthusiastic recipients.

Arden United Church hosts a Sunday afternoon must attend musical event this Sun. Feb. 25 at 2pm featuring a variety of musicians and vocalists offering familiar selections, including movie themes, known jazz pieces, moving spiritual and secular vocals along with Eagles and Elvis tunes, and some classical masters. Snacks, coffee and visiting follow. A free will offering will be received and all proceeds aid the church.

My snow tan dream is on hold as February goes out like a lion - what with all the snow dumped on us this past week. Our road crews responded fantastically- thanks, folks.

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Inverary
by Judy Borovskis

Food Bank! Bring your donations to the Storrington Lions Hall in Sunbury on Friday, February 23rd between 1 and 5pm. Wish list includes household products such as dish soap, laundry soap etc., personal hygiene items, bread, milk, canned tomatoes, potatoes, cheese, butter, eggs, and any kind of meat. Cash donations always welcome.

Wild Winter Sale & Fun! on Saturday, February 24th from 10:30am to 2pm at 4750 Latimer Road, Inverary. Funds raised support young people’s theatre. Garage sale items at amazing prices – you make a donation and take it away! A local author will be doing book signings and food and craft items for sale. Face painting, portrait painting and card or palm readings and the list goes on.

Bob’s Breakfast Buffet Different format... Same warm welcome! Join us at Inverary United Church Hall on Saturday, March 2nd. Doors open 7am to 10 am. Serving scrambled eggs, sausages, pancakes, toast, juice, tea & coffee. Cost is $10 per person, 12 and under $5. Volunteers definitely welcome! Contact Darlene at 613-217-1142.

South Frontenac Museum is looking for history information or artifacts from Inverary, Sunbury, Battersea, Perth Road Village and surrounding areas. If you have old pictures, books on the area, a special story to tell or artifacts that you can donate or loan to the museum call Judy Borovskis at 613-353-1768.

High Tea on May 11th at 1pm at the Storrington Lion’s Hall in Sunbury. Preparations are underway and tickets sales have started. To purchase tickets, call Shirley O’Neil at 613-353-2257.

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Maberly-Bolingbroke
Karen Prytula

Due to longer daylight hours, the new hours for MAHJONG at the ABC Hall held on Thursdays will be 1 pm to 4pm Thursdays.  A fun game played with tiles instead of cards. Monthly social outings, too. Info: https://abchall.ca/fun-games/

Do you know what was going on in the hamlet of Althorpe in February of 1892? I’ll tell you. The farmers were busy drawing wood and logs out of the forest. - Alex Bygrove became the new cheesemaker. - James Menzies came home from Perth and planned on going to Westport for work. - Jennie Lister was the teacher and she taught at the schoolhouse that is now a private residence on the Althorpe Road. - There were great religious revival meetings going on at that schoolhouse since the last week of January 1892, lasting about three weeks. Almost all the young men around were influenced. – Althorpe is accommodated with everything they need, even a lock-up! All they are lacking is a church. – John Fournier and wife received an invitation to a wedding in Elphin. – Eliza Robinson paid a quick visit to her friends in Althorpe. – [Does anyone know where the lock-up was in Althorpe? Or who might have been incarcerated in it? If so, email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the words ‘Jail in Althorpe’ in the subject line, or call me at 613-325-1354. I am rarely in the vicinity of my phone when it rings so don’t be shy to leave a message and I will call you back]

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Mississippi
by Pearl Killingbeck

No column; check back next week!

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Ompah
by Linda Rush & Marily Seitz

Around 25 folks celebrated the 3rd Annual Snow Stomp last Saturday. Though it was a cold day, everyone kept warm with Zumba dancing led by Meredith, or hung out around the fire.  A ballroom type dance was requested, so waltz music was played and everyone found a partner to waltz around the parking lot.  Thanks to those who donated the plentiful sandwiches and sweets.  Thanks to Liz and Marily who organized the event.  Thanks to Meredith for bringing the music and leading the dances.  Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate our Ompah winter Snow Stomp.  I danced every dance.  Loved it, and took a Tylenol before bed!

While thanks are being handed out, thank you to the road crew who are out at all hours of the day and night, plowing and sanding and making our roads safe. Your work is appreciated.

The Community Cafe, from Rural Frontenac Community Services, will take place on Wed., March 6 from 11am -1:30pm.  This month, Randy Scott from Addictions and Mental Health, will present "How to Deal with the Winter Blues" and keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year.  Snacks and social will follow.  This is a free event for seniors ages 60 plus.

We are past the middle of February.  It won't be long until March and then spring.  I have 4 Mourning Doves who are pushing the season cleaning up under my feeder.  Has anyone else seen other early birds? Let us know.

If you have an item for the paper, please contact us by Saturday so we can include your news in the Ompah column.

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Parham-Tichborne
by Christine Teal and Colleen Steele

Hope everyone enjoyed the Family Day Long Weekend with not only their family but taking in all the activities in this area, starting with the Talent Show on Friday Night. Kudos to all who took part and congrats to the winners! Then Saturday was jam packed with so many activities in each district... Taffy on snow and skating, and lots of activities at Mountain Grove Rink. A Skate-a-thon in Arden, and Kennebec had lots of fun activities. Lots of action at the Sharbot Lake beach, a vendor show at the Sharbot Lake Legion... Then, Sunday, the Polar Plunge (man, those plungers were brave with the cold temperatures)! Beavertails, chili, hot dogs and hot chocolate with lots of skating and catching up with friends and neighbours at the Tichborne Rink. Thank you to everyone who took part in these activities, whether helping to put them on or coming out to support the volunteers. All in all, it was a wonderful Family Day Weekend for all.

I had a wonderful conversation with Ian from Kingston, who is associated with the Umpire Association, when he inquired about our mutual friend Gordon Bertrim who had passed just recently.  Ian was reading the news, which he gets from his son who lives in this area and recycled the paper by giving it to his father.  He not only praised Gordon for this coaching of the men's baseball team when they played in the Loughborough League, but he gave credit to the staff of the News for printing a remarkable paper which he thoroughly enjoys!!

Thank you for all your care and concerns after my (Colleen) recent procedure of having my loop monitor removed after having it in for almost six years.  Thank you for the doctors and nurses at the Fraser Armstrong at KGH.

Thinking of all who are sick with this cold, COVID and flu bug, especially Will & Melody Cooke.

Friday, March 22 there will be a Ham Bingo at the Oso Township Hall in Sharbot Lake at 6:45. Who knows, you might win your meat for your Easter dinner, sponsored by the Aabitawehii group.

Have you noticed the beautiful swans swimming in the creek outside of Tichborne?  I haven't seen any, but they say robins have arrived before this cold spell last week.  

For those who have been asking, the Parham United Church is holding a Ham Supper on March 16th at the Parham United Church from 5pm to 7pm - cost is $20.

Sympathy is extended to Joanne McCullough's Mom and to the family of the late Deborah Kyte of Parham.

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Perth Road
by Peter Bird

No column; check back next week!

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Plevna
by Rhonda Watkins

On Tues, Feb 20th, Donna Hay will be celebrating her 50th birthday! Happy birthday from our community, Donna!!

Last Tues Feb 13th, 22 people came out to enjoy a special Valentine's Euchre at the Plevna Clar-Mill Hall. Congratulations to Carol F. for winning the high score prize with 91 and Phil F. for winning the most lone hands prize with 4. Betty M. went home with her own little 3 pack of lindor chocolates for the Consolation prize that night. We hope to see you Tuesday night at 6:50pm (games start at 7pm). Refreshments are enjoyed after the games.

Winterfest is quickly approaching this Sat, Feb 24th from 11-4pm at the Plevna Clar-Mill Hall. There will be so many fun indoor and outdoor activities that you won't want to miss out on this awesome North Frontenac Township winter event! We hope to see you there!!

You are invited to the Clar-Mill Community Volunteer Poker Chip Grocery Bingo Lunches on Feb 20th, Mar 5th and 19th and April 2nd, 16th and 30th from 11-1pm at the Plevna Clar-Mill Hall (6598 Buckshot Lake Road) If you are celebrating a birthday on a Bingo Lunch day, please let me know, so we can help you celebrate! Take-out meals are available.

Stay tuned for information on more fabulously fun events coming up in March! Including the delicious and always fun Chili Competition and Baked Goods Auction at Clarendon Central Public School! The Fund-Raising Dance for Craig Schonauer at the Plevna Clar-Mill Hall hosted by the North of 7 Kitchen Staff and The St Kilian's Catholic Church Easter Egg Hunt and other fun activities coming up on Easter Weekend (the last weekend of March). It will be at the Plevna Clar-Mill Hall this year!

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Sharbot Lake
by Greg Rodgers

Congratulations to the organizers and event contributors and volunteers for a very successful Frontenac Heritage Festival on the Family Day Weekend. The winter fun continues this weekend with “Wintertide” at the Oso Hall on February 24.

“Wintertide” events include: dinner and music with Kingston’s own Tom Savage & Dead Root Revival and featuring local musicians Jim MacPherson and Dennis Larocque. Dinner option provided by Chris Charlebois of Frenchie’s, and beverages (including beer, wine and cider) provided by K&P Brewery. Doors open at 5:30pm, dinner at 6pm, show at 7pm. Tickets are $25 pre-purchased ($30 at the door) $55 for dinner and the show (must be pre-ordered).

To purchase your advance tickets or to pre-order dinner, and for dinner options, contact Greg Rodgers at Frontenac Experiences (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) or phone 613-453-6962. Advance tickets also available at K&P Brewery and Frenchie’s.

Feb 25 at K&P Brewery: Annual Snowshoe Race from the Brewery to Belong Sharbot Lake. Starts at 10am (weather and temperatures permitting).

Friday March 1st: World Day Of Prayer Service: All 6 local Churches of Sharbot Lake and Parham will be participating in an ecumenical prayer service in recognition of the WDoP. All are invited.

This years’ service has been written by the Christian Churches of Palestine, and special speaker will be Rev. Canon Kenneth Davis of Perth who visited the Christian Churches of Palestine in 2022. Sharbot Lake United Church. 1040 Elizabeth St, 1pm, refreshments to follow service.

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Sydenham
by Karen Brawley

Maple syrup season is around the corner, feeling artistic…  Painting workshop with a maple syrup theme on Feb 28, 1- 3 pm at the Sydenham Legion Hall (4361 Amelia St). Materials provided but bring an apron, paper towels and a sense of fun! $5 donation for beginners to experienced (55+). Please register a few days before with Natalee at Southern Frontenac Community Services, 613-376-6477 ext 310

What are you waiting for?  Come on out and dance the night away to the music of Hickory Switch at the Legion on March 2nd, tickets are $10 and available now at the Sydenham Legion as well as The One Stop.  Enjoy a night of country, blues and old rock.  This 5 piece band brings amazing harmonies and sure to keep the dance floor busy all night long, doors open at 7.

Our community needs YOUR help! ?✨ Join us on Thursday, March 7th and learn how you can make a difference in the lives of seniors and families in our community!

"Thanks again for this service! It makes my life so much better. The Volunteers are Gems, and every driver I have ever had has made my drives very pleasant. Giving up my independence was a great loss, but (the volunteers) and SFCSC transportation have made my appointments less stressful." - SFCSC Transportation Client.

Contact Chelsea to register today at 613-376-6477 ext. 308 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Join us on Thursday, March 7 at noon at the Verona Free Methodist Church for a pork tenderloin meal followed by a performance from Cowboy Mark McDonnell! 

Register early as spots are limited! Call Cindy at 613-376-6477 ext. 303. Only $10

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Verona
Debbie Lingen

On Monday, April 8, South Frontenac residents will experience a total solar eclipse, a once in a lifetime event. South Frontenac is directly on the path of totality, the slim sliver of the Earth’s surface where the moon will completely block out the sun. You can see the path on this Queen’s physics website https//www.queensu.ca/physics/2024eclipse. The site also includes info on how to view the eclipse safely. For us, this coming total solar eclipse will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime event. The last eclipse was almost 700 years ago in 1349, and the next one won't be for another 375 years in 2399!

Fourteen Island and Mink Lake Association will be hosting a community breakfast at the Verona Lions Hall on Saturday, February 24 from 8:30am to 11am. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, coffee, tea and juice. Payment by donation.

Style Revival Clothing Center will be open Saturday February 24, from 10am to 1pm. Style Revival provides gently used clothing, free of charge. They are also open every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm. Location at the Verona Free Methodist Church.

The next Women's Luncheon will be Tuesday, March 5 at 12:30pm at MOM's Restaurant. Sophie Sage will be presenting on Letting Go/Purging. Sophie downsized from a four bedroom home to go where the Lord sent her. Please call 613 374-2703 to reserve. New women are always welcome.

Dog owners can buy dog tags at a reduced price of $15 during regular business hours from the following locations in Verona. Asselstine Hardware and Rona Hardware. After March 1, the cost increases to $30 and can only be purchased at the Township office.

New Leaf Link is holding a Maple Syrup Fundraiser. All funds raised go towards their program. The maple syrup can be ordered in three different sizes. For more details and to order, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. New Leaf Link (NeLL) is a rural non-profit organization that champions the abilities and interests of adults with developmental and physical disabilities through programming in arts, healthy living, and community participation. NeLL's mission is to foster an environment for personal growth, connections through friendship, and community belonging.

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