Ramsay WI Ramsay WI of Lanark North District (Eastern Area) has found an innovative way to raise funds while raising the proï¬le of the WI: PEDAL POWERED SMOOTHIES! For two years, Members have taken part in Bicycle Month (June) in Almonte, serving up delicious smoothies. They are made from strawberries or raspberries, yogurt and milk (also soy, if requested). The novelty part of the procedure is that the blender is ï¬xed on the back of a bicycle and is powered by the person buying the smoothie pedaling for a minute or two. Pictured: Former Mayor, Al Lunney pedals for the cause! The plan was noticed on the internet by one ofthe Branch’s Members. Her husband followed the instructions, hooking the base of the blender to the bicycle sprocket. They created a bike painted in blue and gold, which has appeared at events such as the Mayor‘s Breakfast, parades and flea markets, to name a few. Members in smart blue aprons are putting out a fresh image for Women‘s Institutes, while enjoying meeting neighbours and tourists. On a different topic, the Branch has made great progress in the recording of their local history. Their 5 volumes of Tweedsmuir Histories were digitized in 2012 and their DVD titled Hamlet Histories: Bennies Corners, Blakeney, and Leckie’s Corners is now available for $15 from Millstreet Books in Almonte or from Marilyn at msnedden@storm.ca. Southline Brant WI Southline Brant WI (Greyâ€"Bruce Area) holds an annual Christmas party, but rather than exchange secret pal gifts, Members give a donation to a different charitable organization each year. In 2012, donations were made to Community Living Hanover and Community Living Walkerton and District at this special ROSE Session. Kim Munroe, Program Manager for Community Living’s Adult Day Program in Hanover, spoke on the opportunities and jobs created for people who could not otherwise hold a job. Brodie Hart, Executive Director of Community Living Walkerton and District, explained that government funding is not available for individuals over the age of 18; therefore, donations are gratefully accepted for the Adult Day Programs. Pictured: Southline Brant WI MemberJoan Grubb (right) with Brodie Hart, Executive Director ofCommunity Living Walkerton and District. Victoria ll WI Members and guests of Victoria || WI (Kingston Area) met at the Napanee Fire Department for a ROSE Session on "Safety in the Home & Emergency Preparednessâ€. Public Educator, Randy Cook, questioned participants on the resources that should be kept in an emergency kit. He also described hazards in the home and the different types of smoke detectors. What some might not know is that smoke detectors (and carbon monoxide detectors) should be replaced every 10 years. ‘ Pictured: Victoria II WI Members and guests learned valuable tips on how to stay safe and prepare for emergencies. ‘ ‘ ngvï¬jï¬g‘“