Issue 16 2024 April 25 NG Times

County Road 43 widening has begun

by Brandon Mayer

It has been long anticipated, and now it has finally begun – the widening of a designated stretch of County Road 43 within Kemptville town limits is now underway. The project

has been named “The Boulevard”, and is intended not only to increase the functionality of the road – which has been struggling to keep up with traffic demand for years – but also to “urbanize” it.

“The project will include changing the existing 2-lane rural roadway with ditches to a 4-lane urban roadway with curbs and storm sewers,” reads a project description on the Municipality’s website. “The roadway construction will include 4 new roundabouts and modifications to 2 existing roundabouts. The 4-lane roadway will be constructed with

centre medians to limit the turning movements to the roundabouts except between James Street and Anniversary Way that includes a 5th lane to provide access to adjacent commercial establishments. There will be 3 metre wide multi-use pathways (MUP) that allow 2-way travel on both sides of the roadway as well as pedestrian crossings planned with pedestrian activated flashing beacons.

“The work also includes the removal and replacement of the existing 2-lane bridge on County Road 43 over the Kemptville Creek with a new 4-lane

bridge extending to the South. The bridge will provide four lanes that are each 3.3m wide, in addition to two MUPs on each side of the bridge measuring 3m each.”

A well-attended information session took place on April 15 at the Municipal Centre, where residents were reassured that a primary goal of the project will be to keep the businesses along County Road 43 accessible to the public. In fact, the contract for the work stipulates that “no businesses can be closed”.

The work is expected to take approximately 3 years to complete.

Mayor Nancy Peckford introduces members of the panel at the April 15 information session. Photo by Larry Belzac.

Bill Guy, Manager of Engineering and Operations, speaks to the crowd at the April 15 information session. Photo by Larry Belzac.

A six part speakers series

The Next Steps: Life without a cure, hosted by the Beth Donovan Hospice

Many of us have experienced or know someone who has experienced being told by a medical professional that “there is nothing more that can be done”, often creating a new landscape of uncertainty, confusion and fear. Staff and volunteers at the local Beth Donovan Hospice frequently see these scenarios unfolding in our community. In response to this, the Hospice, through a generous donation from Outcare, is offering “The Next Steps: Life Without a Cure”, a six week speakers series designed to offer practical information for individuals and families navigating this season of life. Speakers will provide useful tools, strategies and options available to all of us through anecdotes and insights gleaned from their education and experience in the palliative field.

These free sessions will be held each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Beth Donovan Hospice at 1107 French Settlement Drive, Kemptville, beginning Thursday, May 16th. A wide variety of topics will be covered from financial planning at the end of life to pain management and control to difficult conversations with family members about wishes at the end of life. Each week will cover a different topic and a detailed schedule will be released shortly. Hold those Thursday evenings!!!

On May, keynote speakers, physicians and authors Dr. Sammy Winemaker and Dr. Hsien Seow will speak about their experiences in palliative care and their book “Hope for the Best, Plan for the Rest", “7 Keys for Navigating a Life-Changing Diagnosis”. Please note that this one session will be the only one held away from the Hospice and will take place at the Parish Hall (40 Campus Drive, Kemptville) and at a different time. Doors will open at 4:30 and the discussion will begin at 5:15 pm. Refreshments will be served. Registration is required.

For further information/to register, please call 613-258-9611 ext 0 or email program@bethdonovanhospice.ca

May 1st deadline approaching for MyView Youth Film Festival!

Got a smartphone or a camera? That’s all you need to become the next big filmmaker at the MyView Youth Film Festival. If you live, work or play in Eastern Ontario, it’s time to get creative because we want YOUR short films by May 1st!

Youth perspectives are key to building vibrant communities. This is your chance to have your voice heard and maybe see your film screened in the historic Brockville Arts Centre at the Awards Ceremony on June 12th.

There are over $3,000 in prizes available in the following categories:

- Best Overall Video$1,000

- I Love My Community - $750

- Best Original Music - $500

- YMCA of Eastern On-

Award - $500 - Age Category Prizes (10-13; 14-17; 18-24) Films must be 5 minutes or less and showcase your unique perspective. Judging criteria favours the content and entertainment value over the production elements, in hopes of encouraging all eligible youth (ages 10-24), regardless of their level of experience, to participate and share their stories. Check out all the details at www.myviewfilmfest.ca.

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Local sculpture artist Lorraine Delangis (LD Creations has two of her sculptures selected for this show. Come out and support our very own Lorraine, April 30 to May 12 at the KANATA CIVIC ART GALLERY!

sculpture by Loraine Delangis

Community Forum May 1, 2024

The next North Grenville community group forum meeting will be held on May 1st at the auditorium in Parish Hall on the Kemptville campus.

The theme of the meeting will be ‘Fundraising for non profits’. Our guest speakers will be Frank Rockett, fundraising expert and Hailie Jack, Executive Director of Leeds Grenville United Way.

Participants will engage in breakout discussions to share experiences, knowledge and information on current potential funding sources for community groups. This will also provide an opportunity for initiating collaborative approaches to available monies from public and private sponsors.

If you would like to attend this event and have participated before, please contact one of the organizing committee - Brian McKee, Maggie Boyer, Cora Bekin, Cathy Ashby, Sarah Jane Manning or Geoff Gander.

Reduce your home’s costs and emissions: learn how at the 15th

Annual North Grenville

Sustainability Fair

If you’re looking for more information and options for how to make your home more efficient, more environmentally friendly and how to reduce your operating costs, you’re in luck. On Sunday May 5th, the 15th Annual North Grenville Sustainability Fair will have a range of local experts and businesses that are knowledgeable and ready to assist.

The Sustainability Fair will be held at the North Grenville Municipal Centre from 10 am to 3 pm and attendance is free.

The “Greening Your Home” section of the Fair will include specialists in energy assessment. They can get you started on your journey with an initial review and report on the state of your home. They can provide advice on various options for improvement, and assistance with administration to leverage various government and utility incentive programs.

Considerations for making your home more efficient should start with your home’s outer shell, addressing airtightness, insulation, windows and window treatments. Meet contractors doing deep energy retrofits, or designing and building Net

Zero Energy homes, or even extremely efficient Passive House homes. Have discussions about your home’s unique circumstances and get ideas on how you might be able to reduce your heating and cooling needs and costs while improving comfort. You’ll find expertise to help you investigate simple to complex approaches.

Uptake in heat pumps has been very significant in recent years. They are a very important component for decarbonisation. Find out from local contractors how they work under our coldest conditions, and how the wide range of types and configurations enable them to replace or augment existing fossil-fuel heating systems in our homes. Learn about how they can be up to 400% efficient, and can provide homeowners with a good business case for transitioning off carbon.

Making your own power is yet another way to decarbonize. The Fair will have experts in solar energy generation as well as battery storage solutions. Talk with them about the feasibility of making clean electricity at home, and how to make your home more resilient during

outages. Explore the various new programs available with utilities to account for your energy generation and consumption that can help reduce your overall costs. Find out how you might be able to connect your EV into the whole-house energy management picture, and how making your own energy can make an EV even more affordable.

If you are interested in learning more about greening your home and the incentive programs to support you doing it, there will be a presentation at 11:15 am. The federal Greener Homes program has recently been shut down, but it is being revised with emphasis on assistance for lower-income households. Find out from Stephen Magneron – a leading energy advisor – the latest news about this and other incentive programs.

Come to the Sustainability Fair on Sunday May 5th to discover how to make your home more comfortable, efficient and sustainable, by meeting with local and regional experts in the Fair’s Greening Your Home section.

culverts

Yes, don’t do that

by Brandon Mayer

I have a love-hate relationship with social media. I hate that for some, it has replaced what I might call “real human interaction”, and I also strongly dislike the power it gives some people to talk rubbish safely from behind the keyboard, with little notion that words are powerful and can have consequences. I do like social media for its ability to connect community members in real time, even if I am not always fond of the discussion topics.

Last week, a local parent posted online about taking her children to the park, only to have some local preteens show up and ruin the experience by being “disrespectful”. As with pretty much any topic of local discussion, opinions were divided when the original poster asked if she was in the wrong for asking the kids to be more respectful. Ask and you shall receive opinions, mine

included. And this particular topic happens to be one that I know a lot about.

I am all about respect – I work in the school system, where day-to-day life would turn to chaos without basic rules, boundaries, respect, and consequences. One thing to remember, though, is that respect runs both ways.

I was in the parking lot of the Kemptville Mall a couple of weeks ago and noticed a group of teenage boys who were acting very boisterously coming out of one of the stores. They weren’t hurting anyone, they were just being loud and, for lack of a better word, hyper. My first thought was “they are making complete fools out of themselves”. My second thought was, “I remember acting EXACTLY like that with my friends at that age when I first experienced the freedom of being able to drive myself around and be independent.”

Kids will be kids and teens will be teens. “Disrespectful” may be the correct

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

I read with interest Brandon Mayer’s editorial "The honourable know best" and wholeheartedly agree that honest accountability is lacking in our system of government. That certainly makes it difficult to be a properly informed voter.

I can't agree with your comments about the carbon tax, however. Yes, most Canadians are opposed. Much of that is due to Mr. Poilievre's constant, inflated and only partially accurate comments. Mr. Trudeau promises a rebate that will help families cope with the tax. It would be interesting to know more about what the tax and rebate might amount to for, say, an average family of four and for heavily carbon-intensive large industries.

In any event, the overriding issue that seems to be seldom mentioned is global warming. The carbon tax is intended to help reduce Canada's carbon emissions by discouraging the use of fossil fuels, as I understand it. Nothing could be more important.

But the affordability of food and housing for so many Canadians needs to be dealt with more directly by means that do not take away from Canada's efforts to combat global warming.

word for name-calling or swearing (both of which happened in the incident that was reported online), but what does it take to get to that point? Are teenagers just naturally inclined to run their mouths at everyone they meet? Are all teenagers naturally menaces to young children? Or… is it possible that teenagers all go through the same awkward, boisterous, hormone-filled phases that most of us remember going through? Coupled with an unfortunate “labelling” of many teenagers as innately “up to no good” no matter where they go or what they do, the result may be a self-fulfilling prophecy.

I have noticed in my work that teenagers are innately “feared” by young children, probably because of the “loud” character of their demeanor. I actively work to change that. When running the after school program at the school I work at, teenagers will often come and use the basketball court, or sometimes just socialize in the yard. The younger

kids in my care are almost always fearful and don’t want to be anywhere near the teens. I actively encourage the younger kids to interact with the teens! Most of the time, the teens are all too eager to act as “big buddies”, teaching sports moves and sometimes even giving wholesome advice.

Another thing I have noticed is that when I approach teens with basic respect, I always get it in return. If I hear swearing, I am obligated to address it for the sake of the little ones’ ears, but I always realize that conflict breeds conflict, while collaboration and mutual respect gets positive results. I’ll walk up and shoot a couple of balls with them. I’ll make casual, positive small talk. And I’ll open the discussion of the issue by pointing out how I love to see local teens using the schoolyard as a “hub” for hangouts, and that they are more than welcome to share the space with us. Then, the simplest sentence in a light tone can work unbelievable magic: “Can you guys watch

the swearing though? Just because the little ones tend to repeat things.” I have never, in all my years, had a bad reaction to this approach. The conversation is filled with nothing but respect from the beginning, and the solid promises made – whether it be to keep rough behaviour to a minimum, or to leave half the court free for the younger kids, or to clean up the language – are always kept.

There will be those who will read my above suggestions and argue that I am “woke” (I still don’t fully understand what that means). I have a problem with this. If you will accept nothing besides instant obedience when barking orders at a group of teens who were just out trying to have some fun without turning to vandalism, or drugs, or fighting, then YOU are the problem. If you prefer obedience over real solutions, then you believe in control, not respect.

We complain about kids of all ages being on their video games too much. We

encourage them to play outside. Note that in the social media post I referred to earlier, the teens’ original “offense” was jumping on the teeter totters. Well… bigger kids tend to enjoy more boisterous play. Regardless of their age, they are still local kids trying to have fun at a public park. Discouraging teens from having fun outside after relentlessly encouraging them to play outside is like having them ask “Should we play at the park?” and answering with “Yes, don’t do that”. I don’t doubt that there are some local teens who need some discipline, and for whom respect does not come naturally. However, if we are to accept that “it takes a village to raise a child”, then we need to model basic respect, courtesy, and understanding for our older youth as well. Parents beware: your little ones will be teens someday too.

While the details of how this unaffordability came about may differ depending on who one asks, in the end it does come down to an economic system that works to funnel money upwards to those who already have much more than enough. Steeply taxing the rich would help.

Thanks for your thoughtprovoking work.

Karen D. Dukes

Dear Editor,

While I do appreciate Brandon's factual article in the April 18 edition of the NG Times regarding the proposed land sale requested by the Ferguson Forest Centre Cooperation, I was dismayed with the quote: "Carl explained that the FFC does not care what is to be done with the land.” As stated in the detailed materials that we have made available, and as brought forward during our proposal to Council, both I, and the FFCC Board of Directors do care very much about what happens on the land bordering the Nursery. It is our hope that the land, if not used for Nursery purposes, will be repurposed for the benefi t of the community, specifically for mixed use that would include affordable,

accessible housing along an active transportation corridor and commercial businesses appropriate for this community. I apologize that this overall intention was not made clear, and for this statement.

The truth of the matter is, and what I was trying to express, is that neither I nor the Corporation have any say in what happens to the land after sale. It will be a municipal decision on land use and I am certain that if the sale of the land is approved, this Council will make a decision that indeed benefits the community. As a resident of North Grenville and President of Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation for the past seven years, I care very much about what happens in this community. The hope of the Corporation is that from the monies garnered by this land sale, the Ferguson Tree Nursery will remain a vital part of this community as will the Ferguson Forest Centre, which it supports. More than ever, the environment needs the seedlings produced by our nursery to fight in the battle against climate change.

Carl Doucette President FFC Corporation

Dear Editor,

A recent interview on April 12, 2024 – Mayor Peckford with CBC News – left me with more questions because her statement was “The reality is 10,000 of our residents live in more rural settings, so they can comfortably accommodate an accessory dwelling”. While this may work for some, a lot of us choose to live in rural areas because of the space

And there are so many questions. Yes there is funding, how much? Does the dwelling have to have its own well, septic, hydro? Do you need a separate line from the pole or can you tap off the existing home? This is all expensive. While the home may be tiny, the ongoing cost may not provide a lot of income, and you may have a loan and insurance for the tiny dwelling, and you will need a slush fund for repairs. Even a rent of $2,000 - $3,000, same as some apartments, may not be enough. Not everyone is up for being a landlord. What if something happens, they stop paying

the rent at no fault of their own, you will still have to cover the costs. Or if they refuse to leave at the end of the agreed lease, this can also happen with basement apartments –squatters seem to have more rights than homeowners. This may be a perfect situation for some. People need to go into this with eyes wide open.

I have been monitoring two homes in rural North Grenville. Both have beautiful apartments. While homes on the same road and close to the same type and price with no apartments sold in a few months, these two are still on the market. The first one has been on the market for over a year now and the price was lowered by $200,000 over the year. The second has been on for six months now. It does seem to narrow the number of buyers interested.

Now some good housing news – Mattamy has almost sold all of its first phase townhomes, hopefully they are going to Kemptville residents. They are a lot cheaper

than the same in Ottawa. For the singles, their site shows four sold. I hope that the Mayor notes this and permits more townhomes, a more affordable option since the push is for affordable housing. It would be interesting to know if they are coming from Ottawa to buy the homes. It would be a big savings for them. Just some thoughts.

D. Lewis North Grenville Rural

Dear Editor, My husband just read me the story written in "Letters to the Editor", regarding Andrew Thriscutt's disappointment dealing with “our unapproachable and frustrating NG Planning and Building department”. My husband and I have the honour of knowing a magnificent woman by the name of Janne Ritskes who left Canada in 1994 and went to Cambodia, a broken country where the people lived in abject poverty, broken, and without Hope. She recently published a book of her

Letters cont'd page 5

14 arrested for using emergency grandparent scam across Canada

More than $739,000

Swindled from 126 Victims Police have arrested 14 individuals in Montréal linked to the emergency grandparent scam that targeted victims across Canada.

In September 2022, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Anti-Rackets Branch began an intelligence probe into a group involved in the fraud. In February 2023, the probe was formalized as an OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB)-led joint forces operation (JFO), known as Project Sharp, and consisted of 11 Ontario and Quebec police services in total.

Aimed at seniors with a landline telephone, the group using the emergency grandparent scam pretended to be an officer or a lawyer and claimed to have the victim's grandchild or family member in custody. They would request bail money to secure the victim's family member's release. In most cases, "money mules" (unsuspecting couriers) were used to collect the money. The victims were instructed not to speak to anyone due to a "gag order" they said

Letters cont'd

Life in Cambodia beginning in 1994. The book is titled "I Am Who I Am, My 25 year journey with the poorest in Cambodia.” Janne is retired now and has moved back to Kemptville. Her life's story of living in Cambodia post Vietnam War is a fascinating account of people living in poverty and hopelessness until Janne came into their lives. Janne was determined to build homes and institutions and lift these people out of poverty.

As most people in this municipality, "Completely Frustrated" Josephine Herman

was in effect. Since February 2022, the group of suspects is responsible for over $2.2 million in reported losses Canada-wide.

From January 22, 2024, to April 8, 2024, there were 126 identified victims who lost approximately $739,000 to the organized crime group running the fraud. Of these 126 victims, 15 were revictimized multiple times losing more than $243,000.

Investigators have worked with financial institutions and the Canadian Bankers Association to prevent or recover more than $559,000 in losses.

Though victims were located across Canada, the majority of the targeted individuals live in Ontario, with an age range of 46 to 95 years old. All of the victims were provided supports and fraud prevention material.

As a result of the investigation, 14 individuals were arrested and 56 charges were laid. A list of arrested persons, their municipality of residence and their respective charges is attached to this media release (see ADDENDUM - PROJECT SHARP). Additional infor-

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mation including a video and a project poster is located within the Project Sharp media kit (opp.ca/news).

Project Sharp is JFO-led by the OPP and involves support from the Sûreté Du Québec, Halton Regional Police Service, York Regional Police, Toronto Police Service, Hamilton Police Service, Peel Regional Police, Durham Regional Police Service, Ottawa Police Service, Service de Police de la Ville de Montréal, Service de Police de Laval, and Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario. Additional assistance was provided by United States Homeland Security Investigations, the

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of the emergency grandparent scam or any fraud is urged to contact their local police, the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. You can also report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre's online reporting system or by phone at 1-888495-8501. For resources on scams and fraud, visit antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Federal offender wanted

The Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (R.O.P.E.) Squad is requesting the public's assistance in locating a federal offender wanted on a Canada Wide Warrant as a result of a breach of their Statutory Release.

Terry CHEVERIE is described as an Indigenous male, 53-yearsold, 6'1" (185 cm), 149 lbs (68 kgs) with brown hair and hazel eyes. He

has the following tattoos: left shoulder - Dragon’s head right upper armDragon’s tail back - Wizards x 2

CHEVERIE is serving a 2 year sentence for: - Break Enter and Commit - unlawfully in dwelling house The offender is known to frequent the cities of Ottawa, Belleville, Kingston, Oshawa and Toronto. Anyone having contact with this offender or information in regards to their whereabouts is asked to contact the Provincial R.O.P.E. Squad at 416-808-5900 or toll free at 1-866-870-7673 (ROPE) or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or call 9-1-1.

Public awareness –

unregistered online casinos

The Ontario Provincial Police, Investigations and Enforcement Bureau (IEB), in partnership with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), is reminding the public to use caution when choosing to access online casino gaming sites found through social media advertisements.

On April 11, 2024, the OPP's Investigation and Enforcement Bureau was notifi ed of

www.northgrenville.ca

What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events

Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings

Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca

Need additional information? Visit us: www.northgrenville.ca

2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

613-215-0735

a suspected fraudulent gaming advertisement depicting an online gaming platform hosted by Casino RAMA. When clicked, the fraudulent advertisement redirects the user to a false application download page. This webpage is associated with WinSpirit Casino which is an unregistered gaming website. Casino RAMA is not associated with WinSpirit Casino or any other unregistered online casinos.

Editor David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Reporter Brandon Mayer brandon@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

Marketing/Sales Melissa Ottenhof marketing@ngtimes.ca 613 329 0209 Classifieds classifieds@ngtimes.ca

Production production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca

In Ontario, regulated gaming sites are held to high standards of game integrity, data security and player protections. Ontario residents who choose to gamble online are being reminded to be aware of such advertisements and to always ensure the gaming site they are playing on is registered with the AGCO. A full list of Ontario's regulated casino and internet gaming sites can be found on the OLG and iGaming

Ontario websites. The IEB is a division of the OPP, embedded within the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, and is responsible for conducting criminal, provincial and regulatory eligibility investigations to ensure integrity and public safety within the AGCO-regulated industries.

Mayor says “tiny homes” are the answer

by Brandon Mayer

Working from home makes it a lot easier to live far away from the office. The length of one’s commute ceases to be a concern when it can be measured in steps between the bed and the computer desk, rather than in kilometres on the road. It is probably true that major cities exist – and are quite popular – because of their densely packed amenities, and ample employment opportunities. Small communities suddenly have many, many more employment opportunities when working from home is an option.

Many North Grenville residents enjoy the “country life” while the City of Ottawa is still accessible nearby. There are undoubtedly countless North Grenville residents who work in Ottawa. When the pandemic hit, however, North Grenville became a popular spot for those who would prefer country living, but refuse to have a long commute. Since housing is a “supply and demand” equation, the increased demand likely drove North Grenville real estate prices up, and general local housing availability down.

Now, Mayor Nancy Peckford is asking North Grenville property owners to consider adding “ad-

ditional residential units” (ARUs) to their property. These can include basement apartments, renovated sheds, or so-called “tiny homes”.

Mayor Peckford and Director of Planning and Development, Amy Martin spoke with the CBC about the Municipality’s push toward ARUs. "We've seen a trend towards smaller dwelling units, both as a principal dwelling and as a secondary dwelling unit on a property. So … smaller spaces with less maintenance," Director Martin told the CBC.

The Municipality allows up to two ARUs on each property. They must be fully livable spaces, with kitchen and bathroom areas, but they are significantly smaller than “regular” homes. Homeowners can be eligible for up to $25,000 in funding through the Housing Accelerator Fund to add an ARU to their property, while landlords can get up to $50,000.

"The reality is, 10,000 of our residents live in more rural settings, so they can comfortably accommodate an accessory dwelling," the Mayor said to the CBC. "Whereas in town, maybe you're looking at … more like a granny suite in your basement."

For more information on adding an ARU to your property, contact the Municipality of North Grenville Planning Department.

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Municipality of North Grenville is excited to announce innovative digital initiatives aimed at fostering volunteerism and strengthening community engagement. From April 15th to April 21st, 2024, North Grenville will celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteers while introducing new avenues to connect volunteers with local opportunities.

Capitalizing on the pivotal role that social media plays in modern communication, North Grenville has unveiled new Facebook and Instagram accounts dedicated to promoting local volunteer opportunities. These platforms will connect residents to current volunteer opportunities and provide organizations with a platform to share their volunteer needs with an engaged audience.

In addition to the social media launch, North Grenville is issuing a call to organizations within the community to participate in the development of an innovative online hub. This hub will serve as a centralized platform connecting volunteers with organizations in need of support. By facilitating streamlined volunteer recruitment, this initiative will make it easier than ever for individuals to find meaningful ways to give back.

Mayor Nancy Peckford emphasized the importance of these digital initiatives, stating, "As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we recognize that so much of what makes North Grenville a healthy, connected and active community is made possible by the multitude of volunteers who generously give of their time and energy. It is essential to harness the power of technology to inspire volunteerism and continue to foster a sense of community as we continue to grow. Our new social media accounts and online hub will serve as invaluable resources, empowering individuals to make a positive impact in North Grenville."

North Grenville encourages residents to embrace the spirit of volunteerism and explore the fulfilling opportunities available within the community. Whether it's lending a helping hand at a local charity, mentoring youth, or participating in environmental initiatives, every act of volunteerism contributes to the collective well-being and prosperity of North Grenville.

For more information on how to get involved or to participate in the new digital initiatives, please contact volunteer@ northgrenville.on.ca.

New social media accounts for Volunteer North Grenville Facebook: www.facebook.com/VolunteerNorthGrenville Instagram: www.instagram.com/volunteernorthgrenville

Highlights of FFC proposal to Council

by Brandon Mayer

Last week, the Times reported that the Ferguson Forest Centre had made a proposal to the Municipality of North Grenville requesting that some of the land on which the FFC operates be sold by the Municipality, with the money donated back to FFC so it can continue to run.

At the regularly scheduled Council meeting on April 16, officials from FFC presented the plan to Council. The presentation focused on many of the same points that were reported in FFC’s official comments on the matter, principally that the trails and recreational amenities provided by FFC would not be affected by the land sale, and that the land requested to be sold is not high quality agricultural land.

It was further proposed to Council by FFC President, Carl Doucette, that the land sale would provide additional benefits to the community, since the FFC is a non-profit organization that serves the community. Carl also said that the FFC wants to “diversify” in the years ahead. “We as a nursery have to become less dependent on government programs, because government programs are at the whim of the government in power at the time,” he added.

Mayor Nancy Peckford asked Carl what the “tipping point” was that made FFC officials realize that they needed a new financial strategy. Carl explained that it had been a consideration over a number of years, and that one major realization has been the need to modernize as advancements in agricultural equipment are

ever increasing. The FFC is currently using much of the same equipment that it was using in the 1990s. Another problem that the FFC is facing is that the well water they draw for irrigation is too high in sodium, and treating it will be expensive.

Deputy Mayor John Barclay then spoke up with a proposal, asking if the FFC would consider taking any land sale proceeds as an interest-free, forgivable loan, rather than as a donation. The Deputy Mayor also asked if the Municipality could pay the money to FFC in increments, based on their financial needs over time. Carl could not provide an answer on behalf of the FFC Board.

Councillor Deb Wilson – who was patched into the meeting virtually – asked whether the subject lands would need to be decontaminated (due to

Federal budget abandons people with disabilities

Four years after announcing the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), the federal government continues to fail Canadians with disabilities by launching a benefit that will do next to nothing to alleviate poverty.

The CDB was first announced during the Speech from the Throne in September 2020. From the start, the government, including then-Minister Carla Qualtrough, repeatedly promised a program modelled after the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which costs the treasury around $16 billion per year in support of vulnerable seniors.

“We know how much people get annually on the GIS. We know what people get for CPP disability and we know the provincial disability support amounts. We are trying to bridge that gap between the poverty line and what people get in their various provinces. That’s the ballpark that we’re working with” ~ Minister Carla Qualtrough March 22, 2023.

Instead, the budget proposes for the CDB an investment of no more than $1.4 billion per year, which is less than 10 per cent of the amount previously indicated. And using the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) as a gateway to the CDB creates significant barriers to access. Twenty-two per cent of Canadians identify as living with a disability, but only a small fraction are DTC holders.

“This benefit is going to give me $200 more per month, which will still leave me living in deep poverty, having to go to meal programs and food banks just to make it through the month.” said Andrea Hatala, member of Defend Disability. “After such a long wait, this amount is the smallest pittance possible,” said Hatala.

People with disabilities are losing faith and patience, and in some cases, their lives. Canadians patiently waited for the framework legislation to pass last year, while the regulatory process for the benefit is still ongoing. Advocates across the country have been calling for the federal government to fully fund the benefit, and this budget falls woefully short in that regard.

Last week’s Angus Reid poll outlined that while 90 per cent of Canadians support the CDB, only 5 per cent were confident the federal government will follow through. Evidently, the majority read the federal government's lack of commitment accurately.

“The Canada Disability Benefit as laid out in today’s budget bears little resemblance to the one that was announced in 2020’s Throne Speech. It’s a classic bait and switch that will not ‘bridge that gap.’” said Trevor Manson on behalf of Defend Disability. “It feels like the feds asked themselves, ‘what’s the least we can get away with that will benefit the fewest number of disabled people possible.’”

Giving the CDB short shrift in this budget means that people with disabilities living in poverty won’t receive any relief anytime soon.

fertilizers and pesticides) before being developed. Carl Cannon of FFC explained that there is typically a waiting period of just “a year or two” before development can take place.

Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan also attended the meeting virtually, and asked the FFC representatives if there is a plan for future asset management. “We need to know that this isn’t going to happen again, because we can’t sell the land again,” she said. Carl Doucette answered that with the planned modernization and new equipment and infrastructure, the FFC would have the opportunity to have a top notch asset management plan.

Mayor Peckford pointed out that, for many North Grenville residents, seeing the nursery and forest on one side of County Road 43 within Kempt-

ville is important and exemplifies the character of the community. She asked if the FFC had considered identifying a different plot of land for sale that would allow the aesthetic quality of that section of County Road 43 to remain. The representatives pointed out that the landscape of County Road 43 is ever changing, and that developers would have options to preserve the aesthetic quality of the subject lands. Ultimately, they confirmed that it has been decided that there is no better plot to recommend for sale.

Councillor Kristin Strackerjan put the issue

into a different perspective, saying that FFC essentially needs $2 million, and that selling the lands along County Road 43 would be only one way of obtaining the money. She suggested that as discussions about the proposal move forward, consideration of other ways to financially support the FFC, including a possible loan unrelated to the sale of any lands, would be prudent.

The motion to receive the report from FFC was passed, with more discussions and ultimately decision making to take place in the future.

North Grenville launches digital initiatives to empower volunteerism

Business growth experienced in Leeds Grenville

Just over 67% of businesses in Leeds Grenville have experienced growth over the last couple of years. The 2024 LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Business Survey Report has been released by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.

With a regional 8% response rate, 363 businesses from all 13 municipalities completed the survey, which has resulted in reports for the region and each municipality. All survey results are available on the Counties Economic Development webpage at www. investleedsgrenville.com/ reportsandplans.

Over 96% of businesses completing the survey are considered small businesses with under 50 employees. The highest responses came from the industry sectors of Retail Trade, Food Services and Construction followed by the Agriculture, Forestry, Fish and Hunting sector. This is reflective of the

small to large business ratio and the economic fabric of Leeds Grenville.

“The number of small businesses in the region is significant and shopping local is critical to our economy,” says Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. “Together with our major employers in the manufacturing and logistics sectors, we have a strong diverse economy.”

The survey shows that two-thirds of businesses are neutral or confident about the strength of the economy overall. In the last couple of years, the largest challenges for businesses remain increased product prices and overhead costs along with attracting new employees. Counties Economic Development will be meeting with the regional Business Support Working Group to develop collaborative programming to support business growth and training. The key areas include navigating growth for small

business, social media, succession planning, AI for businesses and talent attraction. The Working Group is composed of representatives from all 13 municipalities in Leeds Grenville, MP/MPP offices, Community Future Development Corporations, Small Business Centres, BIAs, Employment Services and other business and education agencies.

“A special thank you to the businesses who took the time to complete the survey. Your feedback and input to future plans is greatly appreciated,” says Ann Weir.

There are many programs and services that businesses can access locally for help and support. Shelbi McFarlane, Counties Economic Development Business Development Officer, is available at 613-342-3840 ext. 5361 or by email shelbi.mcfarlane@uclg.on.ca to facilitate connecting businesses to those resources.

Spring Craft Show at St. Michael CHS is this weekend!

Come out this weekend to support the Spring Craft Show at St. Michael Catholic High School, which will be the first of its kind for the school. This completely volunteer-run initiative will not only raise important funds for the School Council, but will also provide an opportunity for many students to earn their mandatory community involvement hours required for graduation.

School Council Vice Chair Sharon Roche reports that the funds raised from past Christmas shows have been used to fund athletic

uniforms, STEM supplies, busing for field trips, scripts and licensing for drama productions, and to offset costs parents and guardians must pay for things such as competitions, field trips, and education workshops.

“As this Spring Craft Show will be the fi rst of its kind at St. Michael, it will follow the successful format of our Christmas sale, offering over 120 tables of goods, door prizes and much much more,” Sharon told the Times. Admission to the event is only $2 (or a donation of a canned food item). Sharon credits Katy Ferguson for the success of past events, and for planning the upcoming Craft Show this weekend. “She is the Chair of the St Michael

Ontario investing $276,169 in Leeds-Grenville Transit

Provincial gas tax funding will help operate and expand local public transit services

The Ontario government is supporting transit in Brockville and North Grenville with a $276,169 investment from the 2023-24 Gas Tax program. The funding can be used to expand service hours, increase routes, purchase new vehicles, and improve accessibility to increase transit ridership.

“This investment is fantastic news for transit riders in Brockville and North Grenville said Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we will continue to invest in local transit to drive economic growth, make travel more convenient and connect people to the things that matter most to them.”

The Ontario government is investing almost $380 million across the Province to help 102 municipalities improve local transit through the Gas Tax program. This year’s Gas Tax program includes a one-time additional $3 million to ensure that municipalities can continue to support and grow their transit systems.

“Continued Gas tax funding from the Province provides our municipality with a vital lifeline for our municipal transit service,” said Brockville Mayor Matt Wren. “It enables us to support our residents by enhancing connectivity, safety, and sustainability for our community. This reliable source of funding aids the City of Brockville in offering an affordable and dependable transportation system which ultimately contributes to the overall well-being and prosperity of our residents and visitors.”

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Government of Ontario for the Provincial Gas Tax funding,” said North Grenville Mayor, Nancy Peckford. “This funding has enabled the launch of North Grenville’s newly established on-demand transit system, NGTransit, which serves all corners of our municipality. With this partnership, North Grenville is able to build a more accessible, sustainable and connected community for everyone, including its most vulnerable residents. We look forward to increased support in the years ahead as NG Transit grows.”

The breakdown of funding for Leeds-Grenville is as follows:

- Brockville - $216,098

- North Grenville - $60,071

“No matter where you live, Ontarians deserve access to fast, reliable and affordable public transit,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Our government is helping municipalities improve their transit systems now and for decades to come.”

School Council, and the Christmas Craft Show and the upcoming inaugural Spring Craft Show are a labour of love for her,” said Sharon. “The dedication of Katy and the team have led our shows to be well-received and attended by vendors and patrons alike. In fact, we often have a waiting list for vendors due to our limited space. Another benefit is that this event permits us to give back to the community by collecting donations for the food bank, and providing tables to community groups at no charge.”

St. Michael CHS is located at 2755 County Rd 43. The Sale will run on Saturday, April 27 from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Support local students by attending this great event!

Baldwin's Birds

Sparrow delights Spring is bringing to us delightful surprises in the Avian world, which never seems to fail us, the other day being a good example. I did my usual cursory glance out of our back patio window, to see if the Bluebirds had returned yet, not really expecting to see anything and I wasn't wrong in my assessment, in that respect. However, I noticed, to the back in our back-yard, a bird perching in one of our Maple trees. At first, I thought that it was a Robin, but just to be sure I got my trusty camera, with its telephoto lens, and zoomed in on it! Wow! It wasn't a Robin but it was a bird of a very similar size, but of a totally different nature - - , a Sparrow Hawk, also known as an American Kestrel! What a surprise, having never spotted one before in our garden, although they obviously must pass through at times, but quite surreptitiously, not wishing to draw attention to

themselves, in their quest for smaller birds for food! In the fleeting moments that I got to look at it, I got a couple of pictures and one as it took off and flew away.

Having seen the "Hunter", later on I was to get to see a couple of varieties of its potential "prey", but excitingly, not the more common kind, at least not in our garden! The first one was "ground feeding" and gave itself away with a sighting of its white and black striped head. Of course, my first thought was of a WhiteCrowned Sparrow, but then it turned and really revealed its identity, by displaying the two yellow facial eye spots on either side of its upper beak and its prominent white throat, making it a White-Throated Sparrow instead.

These two bird sightings were not the climax to my bird day, because as the day drew to a close, another movement on the bird seed scattered ground immediately surrounding

one of my front feeders drew my attention to it, for it was being scuffed up quite vigorously by another Sparrow coloured bird. What was this lively bird, busily using both of its feet at once to scuff up the ground for food, and what a job it was doing too! Well, once again, its colours gave it away. The rufous (fox) colour in its feathers, particularly the tail ones, made its identification reasonably easy. Yes, it was a Fox Sparrow and what a lovely bird it was as it busied itself, making my day which was slowly coming to a close and what a way to end it too! I hope that you too, are having some pleasant bird surprises, as you look out of your windows into your gardens.

Stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin

Congrats to the U13 and U15 Kemptville Fusion soccer teams!

by France Venne

The Kemptville Fusion boys’ U13 and U15 soccer teams, under the guidance of coaches Will Beckett, Frankie, Francheska, and Frank Onasanya, wrapped up their outstanding indoor season with a remarkable performance last weekend on April 13th! Having consistently displayed passion and dedication throughout the fall and winter matches with the Ottawa Futsal Club, these youngsters brought their absolute best to the final tournament.

The U13 squad clinched the gold, while the U15 team secured a commendable silver. This season has been marked by significant growth for these players, showcasing their impressive skills and strong teamwork.

As they continue to evolve and excel, fans eagerly anticipate the future achievements of the Kemptville Fusion teams in the coming years! Way to go boys!

WILD BIRD SEED

Every quilt tells a story: Canadian wartime quilts

In the years that Canada was engaged in fighting World War II in Europe, Canadians at home fought their own battles to keep their homes, farms and businesses running without the young men and women who were overseas. In addition to many men and women taking on new roles in businesses, factories, and farms, Canadians at home also took up the challenge of sending aid and support to the people whose daily lives were impacted by the chaos and carnage in Europe.

Clothes, food, household goods, and bedding were among the items that Canadians shared with their less fortunate Allies, many of whom

had lost everything in the bombings, evacuations, and relocations. In addition to all the other war-time initiatives, the Canadian Red Cross and other organizations called upon Canadians to make hospital supplies, quilts, socks, mittens, hats, vests and other clothing for the Canadians fighting overseas and for the victims of the war.

From the quilt standpoint, Canadian families rose to the challenge and sent extra bedding and quilts that they had in their linen cupboards, and as the war continued they began making quilts out of whatever fabric was available to them. Individual quilters made quilts, and quilting groups in churches, schools, and community centres were formed to speed up the production of quilts for the cause. Even children in schools worked on quilts. Fabric mills and factories donated fabric and off-cuts from the manufacturing of uni-

forms, suits, shirts, dresses, blouses, pajamas, and other garments, and boxes of assorted scrap fabric for quilt making were available for sale in department stores. Quilters who belonged to quilting groups would often contribute five cents at each meeting towards the war effort and the purchase of batting and backing materials. Discarded clothing and other textiles were also sources for quilting projects.

The Red Cross and other organizations organized the distribution of fabric, battings and backings to community quilters and arranged for the shipment of quilts overseas. According to Canadian Red Cross records from five of the nine provinces in existence at that time, over 400,000 quilts were shipped overseas and distributed to those in need during and after the war. Many of these quilts were identifiable by a simple label, ‘Gift of the Canadian

Red Cross Society’.

The Canadian Red Cross was not the only organization sending quilts, and many others have been discovered with labels containing the names of other groups, churches and individuals who created them. The total count of Canadian quilts created for the war relief effort will never be known. In 2023, sixtyfour of these quilts were returned to Canada by the British organization ‘Canadian Red Cross Quilt Research Group’. There are records of only about 300 surviving Canadian wartime quilts in Canada, Britain and Europe. These quilts have an important place in Canada’s history for their record of the lives of people on our homefront, international charitable contributions during wartime and the role of crafts during periods of cultural upheaval.

More information is available on the Suture and Selvedge website hosted by

Joanna Dermenjian, providing photographs, stories and resources relating to Canadian wartime quilts: www.sutureandselvedge. com. Have a quilt to be documented? Ideally the quilt will be 25 years or older. Quilts will be documented on May 2 and 3 in North Grenville. Email to book an appointment to have your quilt photographed and documented: documentation.ngquilts@gmail.com.

UCDSB intermediate students compete in SKLZ Competition

Approximately 120 Grade 7/8 students from across the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) gathered in Kemptville on April 9 to compete in the 2024 SKLZ Competition.

Teams of students worked on five categories of building: Green Energy (turbine building), Technology Challenge (hydraulic mining challenge), Construction Challenge (tiny homes), LEGO Mechanical Engineering and LEGO Robotics.

The initiative, which began in 2018 with one school, has grown to 11 schools and includes the two new Lego robotic events. The competition incorporates problem solving, design challenges and teamwork.

Participating schools included Glengarry District High School, Pleasant Corners Public School, Seaway District High School, Russell High School, Char-Lan District High School, Athens District High School, St. Lawrence

Secondary School, Carleton Place High School, Rideau District High School, North Grenville District High School and North Dundas District High School.

Judges for the event included a coordinator from the Wind Turbine Technician Program at St. Lawrence College, representatives from the Mining Industry Human Resources Council and Local 93 Carpenters Union, two building systems specialists from the UCDSB, retired engineer and Ward 5 Trustee Michel Labonte and a secondary school construction teacher. We thank them for their help in making this event a success.

Gold medal winners from each event will now move on to the Skills Ontario Competition in Toronto on May 6. Results of UCDSB students moving on are outlined below: Green Energy: Glengarry DHS: Shahnoor Bajwa, Callan MacDonald, Shaelynn MacLeod, Mae Ella Mc-

CDSBEO Strategic Plan Update

Superintendents of School Effectiveness Brent Bovaird, Norma McDonald, and Tracy O’Brien presented an update on the CDSBEO Multi-Year Strategic Plan. The Plan serves as a roadmap for achieving the Board’s strategic priorities, which are anchored by four key principles: believing, protecting, learning, and nurturing. These principles guide the daily work within CDSBEO schools and administrative offices.

Cormick

Char-Lan DHS: Mac Menard, Billy Cordner, Lily Major, Mila Kinloch

Seaway DHS: Julianne Barnum, Garrett Templeton, Seb Desrosiers, Lincoln Robinson

Technology:

Char-Lan DHS: Jade Malyon, Reeghan

O’Farrell, Lexa Lalonde, Olivia Tyo

Glengarry DHS: Lucy Cox, Cedric Jund, Kees McIntosh, Greg Oud

St. Lawrence SS: Patrick Bugajski, Muhammad Jan, Shabir Sultani, Grace

Tokali

Construction:

Glengarry DHS: Keaton MacKinnon, Callum MacPherson, Xavier Stang, Ben Wood

Char-Lan DHS: Wyatt Rombough, Grant Small, Karianne Boyer, Adessa

Brennan

Pleasant Corners PS: Reuben Zihlmann, Emma Beraha, Declan Ingram, Evalie Funke

LEGO Mechanical Engineering:

Carleton Place HS: Nick Culhane, Simon Leger

Thomas Ogilvie, William Phillips

Rideau DHS: Emmett

Darling, Siôn Thomas, Blake Thomas, Jane

French

North Grenville DHS: Kari McKay, Daweson Gilchrist, Addison Kleiss

LEGO Robotics: Rideau DHS: Emmett

Darling, Siôn Thomas, Blake Thomas, Jane French

Char-Lan DHS: Brooklyn Murray, Saranniya Kugananthan, Mia St. Louis

North Grenville DHS: Matthew Grus, Sam McDermott, Jordan Christopher, Madden Leonard

A video documenting the event, produced by two Grade 7 students, is available on the UCDSB YouTube Channel.

nerships, and achievements related to program and curriculum delivery. This work aligns and fulfills the priorities outlined in the Plan and provides tangible evidence of how CDSBEO schools are safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments where faith, equity, and the Catholic Social Teachings are embedded in all that we do.

Director of Education

Examples of the Board’s many engaging and robust opportunities for student learning were highlighted, along with examples of activities, events, faith-based celebrations, essential community part-

Laurie Corrigan also presented information to Trustees regarding a proposed process and consultation timelines for developing the new 2025-2030 CDSBEO Multi-Year Strategic Plan. The process will involve a synodal consultation to collect input from staff working groups and plenary discus-

sions. These discussions will form the basis for phase two of consultations, which includes collecting input from many stakeholder groups.

Trustees approved a motion to strike a committee to guide this work.

“Tonight’s presentation was truly exceptional, and we have witnessed the many examples of how the Board’s strategic priorities come to life within our school communities. Thank you for putting together this remarkable presentation,” concluded Chair Wilson.

To view the presentation video, please visit: CDSBEO Strategic Plan Update

South Branch Elementary School Plant and Bake Sale returns after 5-year hiatus

Exciting news for the community as the South Branch Elementary School Plant and Bake Sale is making a comeback after a long five-year pause. The parent council is eager to revive this beloved fundraiser, which plays a crucial role in supporting education initiatives for the students.

Mark your calendars for May 4th from 10 am to 4 pm, as the sale will be in full swing. This year, the event will take place next door at North Grenville High School, offering a new setting while maintaining the cherished traditions of the sale.

Join us for a day of delicious treats and beautiful plants, all for a great cause. Don't miss out on this special opportunity to support the students of South Branch Elementary School.

Ontario farm leaders meet with provincial politicians Chamber Chat

by Ethan Wallace, Executive Member, OFA

Taxation, support for local food, and rural infrastructure needs will be on the agenda this week as Ontario farmers head to Toronto to meet with provincial politicians as part of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)’s government outreach efforts at Queen’s Park.

As an advocacy organization, OFA has ongoing meetings and communications with provincial ministers, political staff and bureaucrats on issues that are important to the agriculture sector and rural communities. At the local level, many OFA members also regularly meet with the MPP from their ridings.

It’s not as often, however, that we have the chance to sit down face-to-face with a broader spectrum of provincial politicians from all major political parties, including those who represent urban ridings without any rural constituents or connections.

An in-person meeting, for example, with an MPP from a downtown Toronto riding is a unique opportunity for both sides to learn about what matters to the other – and we often discover that we have more in common than we think. Housing, homelessness and food insecurity aren’t just urban issues; by comparison, roads, bridges and social infrastructure don’t just need attention in rural Ontario.

I’m a dairy farmer near Lake Huron and as someone very passionate about our industry, I look forward every year to this opportunity to share that passion, make connections and show how the OFA can be an important ally on issues like housing, healthcare, jobs, food security and climate change.

This will be my third time participating in OFA’s advocacy day at Queen’s Park, and while I always enjoy the official meetings with MPPs, the end of day reception also offers the opportunity for more informal conversations.

It was at that reception last year that I got talking with an urban MPP who had met with some of my OFA colleagues

earlier in the day and he had a newfound understanding of agriculture and why our sector matters to Ontario. For me, that’s the reason why we do this – to build that awareness and make those connections with people we wouldn’t otherwise have a chance to meet.

As in previous years, the OFA team will be joined at Queen’s Park this year by younger farmers who are also emerging leaders in our industry. It’s an opportunity for elected officials to also hear from younger, grassroots voices and for the next generation of leaders to experience advocacy and outreach firsthand.

In fact, my own first participation in this event was as a young leader in 2021 and it’s that experience that helped convince me to let my name stand for a provincial director position later that year.

So what are the burning issues on the minds of farmers this spring that we’ll be taking to Queen’s Park about?

Taxation: the burden of the federal carbon tax and the added costs it places on farm businesses and food production is significant. Provincially, we also struggle with development charges on farm buildings, the need for updates to critical farm tax programs to reflect modern agriculture, and the regulatory and financial challenges of agricultural wash water and storm water systems.

Supporting local food: long-term protection of our ability to produce our own food is essential. That means ensuring that farmland remains farmland and investing in tools like the Risk Management Program so that farmers can weather the ups and downs of climate change and the global economy. It also means supporting soil health and water stewardship and addressing the ongoing labour shortage in Ontario agriculture, which costs an estimated $591 million a year in lost sales.

Investing in rural physical and social infrastructure: Rural Ontario needs affordable, reliable and sustainable energy, high speed internet, and wellmaintained roads and bridges to fuel growth and keep businesses competitive. We also struggle with extended emergency room closures, delayed medical testing and treatments and limited access to home care supports, retirement living and nursing home spaces.

The North Grenville Chamber of Commerce introduces William Pearl, owner of Stevens Creek Decor Centre, as its new Chair. William is excited to continue the work of the Chamber in acting as the “Voice of Business” in the community. William discussed his priorities in the role of Chair as first of all encouraging all residents of North Grenville to continue to shop local to support small business, employment and consumer choice in the area. Another big priority is to work with the County to ensure that the business disruptions sure to result from the long-awaited expansion of County Road 43 are minimized in every way possible. William will continue to work on creating opportunities for businesses throughout the Municipality to network, support and learn together!

The North Grenville Chamber of Commerce Board has seven talented and hardworking business owners and representatives. With a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to supporting the local business community, these individuals play a crucial role in advancing the Cham-

ber's mission and serving its members.

The North Grenville Chamber’s focus is to foster collaboration and integrity within the local business community, and to work closely with the many business organizations we have in our region. The Chamber recognizes the pivotal role that local government plays in creating a conducive environment for business growth and development. By advocating for policies and initiatives that support businesses, the Chamber aims to foster a thriving economic landscape that benefits both businesses and residents alike.

Working with the Chamber offers numerous advantages, including increased visibility through marketing, credibility, networking opportunities, and access to exclusive training shaped by our members’ needs. Additionally, Chamber members have a voice in shaping government policies and decisions through advocacy efforts.

Community Players

The Chamber plays a large role in community projects recently seen by new benches at the Library, Bike repair stations, Riverside Park, South Gower Park, in front of the Fire Station, with the latest one to be installed at Bishop’s Mills.

The Chamber also has fundraising efforts in the form of The Harry Pratt BBQ, and the Little Black dress event that has raised thousands of dollars towards health initiatives for our community.

Showcase your Business!

- The Chamber provides opportunities to showcase your business in our community.

- The upcoming Spring and Home Trade show will be held on April 26 and 27 at the NG Municipal Centre.

- The Chamber hosts Alive after 5 networking events hosted by local businesses.

- There are opportunities for advertising, networking and collaboration and so much more.

Chamber Member Perks

First hand information comes direct to you, for example during the COVID pandemic, Rapid Antigen tests were obtainable through the Chamber as well as information on business restrictions and updates.

The Chamber also has

a seat at the Highway 43 Expansion table and is able to convey the most up to date information and changes associated with the project. If you're considering becoming a member of the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce, we encourage you to reach out and explore how membership can benefit you and your business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, the Chamber offers a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and support to help you succeed. To learn more about membership and to see if it's the right fit for you, don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at (613) 2584838 or email us at info@ northgrenvillechamber.com

CREEK

The enemy within

by Marguerite Boyer

Last night, I saw something disturbing on the news. Well, in fact, every day the news is disturbing. But last night this newscast was highly upsetting to me. An American right wing preacher was preaching hate towards the democrats and of course anyone who was not of their belief. A preacher, preaching hate. I keep repeating that sentence over and over again in my head.

The enemy within.

I tell myself, don’t watch these programs, but I think it is important that we keep informed on what and why things seem to be so bad around the world. I realise also, having lived with an historian for almost thirty years, that there is nothing new under the sun, history just keeps repeating itself, over and over again. We, as human beings, don’t ever seem to learn. People on the

Brain Droppings

whole are not nice. I felt like shouting out to the world, this preacher does not represent me as a Christian. This is not what Christians are, and I am almost ashamed (I say almost) to tell people that I am Christian due to the misinformation out there. Jesus came to preach love, to treat all people as you would have yourself treated. That is a hard one. I have this new grief for people in my soul these days, and it is haunting me. It does not leave, it is there all the time.

We are so wrapped up in our own little tiny lives, struggling to stay afloat, overwhelmed by all the things commercials tell you that you need, our big houses, our gadgets; we are judged by what we have, not who we are. But in the end, we die, and none of what we have amassed matters in the afterlife for those who believe in it. And for those who don’t, it still does not matter. You can’t take

your riches with you when you die.

What really matters, to my mind, is how you live your life. You only have one chance at this, just one. What makes you happy or feel better about yourself? How do you combat the doom and gloom and the hate that is spreading out into the world? I am powerless to stop it, there is nothing I can do, so perhaps I should just ignore it all, live in my tiny bubble, and tell myself all is good and I am a good person, so it does not affect me, those are the world’s problems. I have enough of my own problems to deal with.

I don’t have answers, but yet I (we) do. It starts right here in our own community and with those around us. We can make this a richer, more caring community daily. We have amazing people in our community. I see it daily because of the work I do. We need to work on this. We need to put aside our

A Modest Proposal: Part II

by Peter Johnson

Having just read Brandon's article, 'The Honourable Know Best', I was moved to respond. I have been here before. My cranium won't take much more of this. This banging my head against the wall... it makes a lot of noise, but about all I get out of it is a bruised, sore head. Well here we go again... 'How much does a vote count for?', he –Mr. Mayer – asks. In my opinion, fractionally more than nothing at all. That doesn't mean that it is of no importance... but it has been co-opted... by the system, which is a relic of near-medieval times.

Like many others, I don't ever vote for a party, I vote for a person or parts of a platform. (Why anyone would vote for the same party, their entire life, completely baffles me... no party deserves my/your vote, not even once,

unless they are able to convince me/you that they deserve it). But, as we have seen here in Leeds & Grenville, it doesn't matter what the people of the riding want, once The Big Party Machine gets their hooks into OUR representative, he/she becomes THEIR representative. So, as a case in point, no matter how Mr. Clark felt about Mr. Ford's greenbelt plans or his Prison Vision, our representation was strangled – stripped –severed… non-existent. Our system is sadly/ stupidly outdated and... yes again... antiquated. But... it is protected... protected by those with vested interests who don't want it to be changed.

The 'first past the post' election model was not a great idea over 400 or 500 years ago – whenever it was first trotted out. As a starting point, it was probably

egos when we see roadblocks; we need to figure out how to work around them, and solve the problem, not walk away in anger. We need to take the time to think things through. Our egos are the main problem. It is good to have a healthy ego, but not when you think you have all the answers, and are blind to any others’ ideas. Just because I disagree with you does not mean that we can’t have a healthy discussion without getting angry or upset. We can and will agree to disagree. But please, never close the door just because I disagree with you. I am not your enemy because of this. But sadly, this is not what I am seeing out there these days. If you are not with me, then you are my enemy.

Let’s not be that person. Try not to close your heart.

Thank You

The family of the late Dr. Renald Simard would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our community. As we face the loss of our husband, father and grandfather, we are beginning to move forward with the help, love and generosity of the people that support us.

Thank you to the many friends who brought food to our home, sent flowers or made donations to the Alzheimers Society or charity of their choice in Renald’s memory. To all that came to the visitation and/or the funeral, we welcomed your presence and felt your love.

We are so appreciative of the friends and family who travelled from Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Peterborough, Montreal, Sherbrooke, Chicoutimi and Halifax. Your presence offered comfort & solace and allowed us to laugh and remember together.

To the Hulse, Playfair and McGarry, Kemptville chapel, thank you for your knowledge, compassion and help. The Parish of Holy Cross allowed us to share our grief through the words of our grandchildren and a beautiful service. The choir and hymns warmed our hearts as did the food prepared afterwards by the volunteers.

Despite the pain that grieving brings to us, we recognize how our community’s love and support helps us to cope and face each new day. Our gratitude and affection are immense.

Thank you from Doreen, Anne, Julie, Lynn and our families

Boal, Barbara Jean

(Byrd)

Sept 24, 1937 – February 22, 2024

better than the alternative. It has not evolved or improved much... it does not serve us well now.

In a majority government, the leader of the party in power is an oligarch. We are about to elect another such individual: Pierre Poilievre was a fawning, obsequious minion to the most dictatorial party leader in Canada's history –Stephen Harper. Harper bi-passed as many parliamentary checks and balances as possible, and ran our government like it was his personal fiefdom: no discussions with the Opposition or with the press, no one in government could say 'Boo' without permission from the PMO – which were all unelected. Every member of the Party had to do as the Party Whip told them to... the Whip was controlled by the Dictator-in-Chief... Mr. Harper. This is what

we will get from Mr. Poilievre. This is not democracy!

People don't vote for a minority or a majority outcome. All we can do, with our one little piece of paper, is cast one vote. It is easily rendered near-meaningless. But in a system of proportional representation, you have the option of selecting your first, second and third preferences. And if a party receives 20% of the votes across the country, but does not win 20% of the seats, it is still going to be represented in the House of Commons with a proportion of seats equal to how the country voted. Your vote always counts. Now how is that such a terrible idea? Also, make it mandatory to participate in our 'participatory' democracy. Australia has done that – and their parliament has not burned down. Brandon finished

Peacefully, with family by her side, Barbara passed away at KDH in her 87th year. Beloved wife of the late Manford Boal. Predeceased by daughters Brenda Bingley (Terry) and Sherry Funnell (Gary). Loving mother of Paul Boal (Dinah), Margot Rhydoff and Melanie Kerr (Glenn). Dear Sister to Warren, predeceased by sisters Jackie and Sandra. Beloved Nanny Barb to Jason, Manny, Andrew, Kaitlen, Gordon, Maddison, Riley, Erin and Megan. Great Nanny Barb to Michaela, Cole, Brenda, Jack, Liam and Alice. Predeceased by special friend Joe Kotlarchuk. Barbara will be sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. A Celebration of Life will be held April 27, 2024, at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 212, Kemptville from 12:00 – 3:00 pm. A Funeral Service to be held in May for family. Donations may be made in Barb’s memory to Kemptville District Hospital Foundation

Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca

613-258-2435

with, 'Like many Canadians, I am tired of the dog defecating in my backyard.' In my case, the 'dog' is the party in power and I am tired of them defecating all over my vote. We need a vast overhaul of our electoral system. We need to throw out the ancient and bring in something that is going to encourage people to participate in this ever-degenerating, non-participatory democracy. We should have the power to remove rep-

resentatives who are not representing us. We need to strip the big parties of their power to keep advancing their self-serving interests. We need to grow a pair and insist that our governments be set up and run the way WE want, not the way the backroom boys want. It's time we started participating in our so-called participatory democracy. I have to go and bandage my head again. This hurt.

www.leedsgrenville.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

Request for Proposal (RFP) RFP-2024-01

Affordable Housing Development Consulting Services

This RFP is an invitation to prospective proponents to submit proposals for Affordable Housing Development Consulting Services to support the Affordable Housing Development Lab Pilot Program (The Lab).

The Lab will provide non-profit groups, municipalities, and community-minded entrepreneurs, with a feasibility assessment and detailed development plan, at no cost to the organization, to inform the steps required to move forward on an affordable housing construction project that will provide long-term Affordable Housing to households in need.

Issued Monday, April 29, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. EST

Closing Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. EST

Please visit the Leeds and Grenville Bids & Tenders Portal to register: https:// leedsgrenville.bidsandtenders.ca/

The Food Corner

By Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

As I have often repeated to anyone who wants to hear: “simple is good!” In fact, many heritage recipes are both tasty and extremely simple. One of these is the Welsh Rarebit. Originally named Welsh Rabbit, it’s a dish of hot cheese sauce served on toasted bread. What happened to the Rabbit? There never was any, it was an insider joke, so the name ended up as Welsh Rarebit. Welsh Rarebit

Ingredients

• 8 slices of bread (preferably a grainy bread with lots of flavour)

• Enough butter to coat the bread generously, once toasted

• 12 ounces of Cheddar Cheese (older is better, once again, for flavour)

• ½ teaspoon of ground mace

• 1 teaspoon of powdered mustard

• 5 tablespoons of beer

• A sprinkle of black pepper

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400 F degrees

2. Toast and butter the bread (on both sides)

3. Arrange the bread on a cookie sheet

4. Cut the cheese into small cubes and place in a saucepan

5. Melt the cheese on low heat and stir in the mace, mustard and beer

6. Spread the melted mixture on the toast

7. Sprinkle with pepper and bake for about 10 minutes

If this sounds a bit like a grilled cheese sandwich or the Scottish version of rarebit, it’s because many cultures have discovered the excellent combination of cooking bread and cheese together. Remember the Swiss Fondue? Serve hot right from the oven either as a luncheon snack or to accompany something else, such as a salad. The Welsh Rarebit goes well with a dark ale. By the way, you’ll be happy to know that September 3rd is National Welsh Rarebit Day in the British Isles. And, if you add a poached egg on top, the dish becomes a Golden Buck. Go figure...Enjoy, from pcormier@ ranaprocess.com.

RECURRING EVENTS

Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families.

PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@ gmail.com

Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, doors open at noon NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

KLUB 67 EUCHRE Join us for fun, social euchre games taking place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday monthly at 1pm, September to May. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone welcome, $5. To play, cash prizes

Friendship Lunch every Friday at St. Johns United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. The meal begins at 11:30 and is free of charge. A good will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.

Drawing from Life - Portrait and figure drawing clothed models. Fridays, 4pm to 7pm, St. John's United Church 400 Prescott Street. Artists at all levels are welcome. Drop in fee $15. For information contact gowjb5@gmail.com Spencerville Agricultural Society planning general meetings. If you are interested in joining our committee, please email info@spencervillefair.ca to receive all of the meeting details. Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12, Oct 21, Nov 11. The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville Ontario EUCHRE on Tuesday, April 30 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, contact debiar@ ymail.com.

BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, May 7, 21, June 4, 18, July 2, 16, 30, August 13, 27, September 10, 24. Registration from 6:30 p.m., play from 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

St Michael Spring Craft Show, Saturday April 27. (:303:30. Admission: $2 or Canned Food Donation National Association of Federal Retirees - Cornwall and District Branch annual members meeting, May 9, Cornwall Legion, 10h30, lunch included The North Grenville Concert Choir proudly presents “Sacred Sounds”. Friday, May 10th, 7:00pm at Winchester United Church, Saturday, May 11th, 7:00pm and Sunday, May 12th, 3:00pm at St. James Anglican Church, Kemptville. Tickets $20 available at Brewed Awakenings, Kemptville and online at: https://aftontickets.com/ngcc Info: https://northgrenvilleconcertchoir.com/ Addison United Church Spring Sale. Saturday May 11th 8 am to 1 pm. 9007 County Road 29. Baking, crafts, canteen, Books -children & adult, New 2 U The Kemptville Horticultural Society is holding its annual plant sale on Saturday May 11, 2024 at the Kemptville Campus Greenhouse, 75 Campus Dr. Kemptville. 9:00 - 12:00

WIZARD CARD GAME TOURNAMENT on Sunday, May 19 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

EUCHRE FUNDRAISER FOR THE KEMPTVILLE DISTRICT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION in support of the CT Scanner Campaign. On Saturday, June 22 at Pierce's Corners, aka the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m. $10 per player. Pre-register by contacting Debi at 613-868-7600 before 8 p.m. or send an email to debiar@ymail.com. 2024 NORTH AMERICAN WIZARD TOURNAMENT on Sunday, July 14. Check-in starts at 12:30 p.m. At Pierce's Corners, aka the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. $5 per player.Advanced registration is required. For information, contact debiar@ymail.com.

The

you can VOLUNTEER in North Grenville

KD Hospital

Andre Rancourt andrerancourt16@gmail.com

SKBP Venturers skbp.venturers@gmail.com

Girl Guides theleangs@gmail.com

ARTS: NG Art Challenge jayne.couch@yahoo.com

NG Art Guild northgrenvilleartsguild@gmail.com

Beth Donovan Hospice amy.tibben@bethdonovanhospice.ca

Oxford Mills Community Association susannelarner@gmail.com

Kemptville Youth Centre brucewehlau@hotmail.com

Friend of the NG Library blrousseau26@gmail.com

NG Historical Society karenrepta@gmail.com

Rotary corabeking54@gmail.com

Christian Reformed Church sidypma@gmail.com

United Church gowjb5@gmail.com

House of Lazarus cashby@houseoflazarus.com

Youth Alliance: ng.rainbowyouth@gmail.com

Community Senior Centre shalomsmallhomeskemptville.org The NG Library sjones@ngpl.ca

Friends Of the Forestry Centre ldpaibomesai@gmail.com

Kemptville & District Community Assn. wdembleton@gmail.com

BIA shelleybmitchell@gmail.com

Pride chair@ngpride.ca Lions Club mikeamirault@hotmail.com Knights phil.seymour@bell.net

Leeds Grenville Big Brothers Big Sisters Vanessa.martin@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca Canadian Guide Dog Assoc Info@guidedogs.ca Jags kemptvillejags@gmail.com

Pentacostal Church kohls.s.m@gmail.com United way Ed@uwlg.org

FOR SALE

Vintage Coleman camping items: propane lantern, 2 gal jug, 1 gal jug. Call 613-2583596

Folding camp shovel, 2 almost new sleeping bags. Call 613-2583596

Horse manure for gardens, high in nitrogen. By the load or bag. Century old horse shoes for luck. Call after 6pm 613-258-3561

Spring sale for cedars from 3ft to 6ft. Also tamarack, spruce, pine and white birch. Call after 6pm 613-258-3561

Yardworks gas lawn mower, 21”, self propelled. Purchased August 2023. Paid $499 (pre tax). Asking $450. Selling due to need for smaller mower. Contact Debbie 613-796-2669.

Two tires 215/55 R17 used one summer. $25.00 each. Call Robert 673-258-7426.

27"Samsung TV Brand new, with wall mount, was put in a spare bedroom and has never been used, asking $100. 613-215-0884

Sony 50" TV complete with stand,surround sound, speakers & dvd player has not been used in years, just collecting dust, asking $400. 613-215-0884

An old Gibbard 9 drawer dresser ,solid , heavy wood with mirror, mint condition 70" long asking $150.. 613-2150884

104 yr old rough cut pine boards. Call Fred 613-850-9072

Border collie 3 yrs old free to a good home. Excellent recall, friend-

Dump runs, garage clean outs, downsizing, brush , yard waste, scrap metal etc. Everything Removed Wayne Scott: call or text 613-286-9072

ly but won't herd sheep. Call 613-447-0207

Golf equipment, men's right handed; including golf bag with 2 wheel cart, plus extras. $200. Call 613-340-2729

Approx 140 vinyl LP records - 50s & 70s music. Make an offer. Call 613-340-2729

Mixed hardwood firewood. $120 per face cord. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

4X4 round bales of hay, stored inside, suitable for horses. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

Spring & Fall pullover coat with hood. Hand made, medium-tall, rose coloured. $70. email nadfudt@gmail. com

Island Countertop with rounded front; grey speckeled. $50. 22x38x1.25". Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Used kitchen sink; 20x18x7". $15. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Swiffer Wet Jet floor cleaner. $10. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

RV EAZ-Lift hitch kit. 2.25" ball, round spring bars & trailer clips. $225. Contact nadfudt@gmail.com

Maple dowels for sale. 24"30" long, 1.25" diameter. Some painted, some raw. 2$ each. 1000+ to sell. Better price for large quantities. Contact Jordan 613-2912747

WANTED

Would like to purchase spruce seedling. Jackie 613-821-6161

Looking to harvest cedar trees for cedar hedges from land owner. Joanne (613)799-0958

Looking to rent farmland in North Grenville & surrounding areas. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

Senior male looking for female companion/ friend, 50 to 70 years old. Call 613-430-5065

ACROSS

1. They hold teeth 5. Mild expletive 9. Small island 13. African sheep 14. Fables 16. Cat sound 17. Scream

Excuse 19. A magician 20. Lustrous fabric 22. Clothes washer 24. Decorated, as a cake 26. Spot 27. Preferred 30. Catnap

33. Slang for a cheap small car

35. Oozing

37. Circle fragment

38. Attempts

41. Chapter in history

42. Instruct 45. Appraiser 48. Record protector 51. Answer 52. Sporting venue 54. Cried

55. Baking dish

59. Domain

62. Against

63. Natural sweetener

65. Balm ingredient

66. Person, place or thing

67. Tequila source

68. Bristle

69. Zest

70. Pay attention

71. Once, long ago DOWN

1. Homosexuals

2. Component used as

fertilizer

3. More than one voice

4. Element with the symbol

Si 5. Estimated time of arrival

6. Chutzpah

7. Assumed name

8. First appearances

9. Huge

10. Burn the surface of

11. Opera house box

12. Pitcher

15. Red Sea peninsula

21. Adopted son of Claudius

23. Perishes

25. Amount owed

27. Accomplishment 28. Units of land 29. Dung beetle 31. Abstainer from alcohol 32. Bib 34. Fourteen in Roman numerals

36. Almost a meter 39. Hearing organ 40. Large number 43. Discontinuing 44. In this location 46. Utiliser 47. Pacify

The Mysterious Mr. Henderson

Part 4: The legacy

by David Shanahan

The letter from John Henderson in Ogdensburg to William Lyon Mackenzie which started this inquiry into the mysterious Mr. Henderson was dated December 28, 1837, just a few weeks after Mackenzie’s failed attempt at rebellion in Upper Canada. How long he may have remained in Ogdensburg is unknown, but just a year later, in November, 1838, it was from Ogdensburg that a large group of around 400 rebels crossed the Saint Lawrence to try and occupy Prescott. Warned by spies, the British force of more than 2,000 regulars and militia were waiting, and the rebels were forced to turn aside and land upstream, occupying, instead of a town, a windmill. There they held out for five days against superior numbers engaged in serious battle, and losing around thirty killed and about 150 taken prisoner.

Of these, ten were executed. Was John Henderson at the Battle of the Windmill? If so, did he escape, was he killed, or captured? At the present stage of research, we simply don’t

know. We do know that a good number of his onetime fellow residents of Kemptville fought at the Windmill on the side of the Crown. We also know that John Henderson had not been alone in his republican sympathies when he lived in Kemptville. After Mackenzie’s damp squib in 1837, these men had formed a secret branch of the Hunters Lodge, a network of republicans planning a renewed rising and overthrow of British rule. The Battle of the Windmill exposed these plotters, and, like Henderson, they left town, never to return.

What, then, was the legacy left behind by John Henderson, the entrepreneur who had once been a respected and leading businessman in his community on the South Branch?

Aside from that one letter, what was the lasting impact on Kemptville of John Henderson and his fellow Hunters?

Even a few people can have a profound influence in a small community, and North Grenville’s population in 1838 was hardly more than 500 in total. Although the 1837 Rebellion had not touched this area directly, it and

its main leader, William Lyon McKenzie, had followers here. During his reform campaigns before 1837, McKenzie had visited Kemptville and had spoken at public meetings there. Milo McCargar and John Henderson were two of the locals who had guarded the wagon from which McKenzie spoke at the meeting. These Reform supporters had to keep a very low profile after the failed rebellion, but they had organised a Hunters Lodge in Kemptville by 1838. Little is known about who was involved in this secret society, but they met in the basement of Daniel Church’s store on Clothier Street east, the frame building at No. 38 today. The members included Church, a tailor named Martin, possibly Milo McCargar and, word had it, Nathaniel Fenton, the owner of the White House Hotel which stood on the south-west corner of Clothier and Prescott Streets. Fenton, apparently, was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Lodge.

In the aftermath, nothing seems to have been done to punish the Lodge members. The tailor, Martin, had fought with the rebels at the Battle of the

Windmill and was wounded in his leg. He actually returned to Kemptville and continued his business there. However, after suffering from the jeers and petty vandalism of his store by locals, he left town some time afterwards. The big winner in the entire affair seems to have been Nathaniel Fenton. Now that the Hunters Lodge was defunct and the members could not identify themselves without facing the consequences, it seems

their Treasurer decided to spend the funds raised by the Lodge on a big new stone house for himself. It still stands at the corner of Clothier and Rideau, and Fenton continued to live there until his death many years later. Ironically, the house built by the funds of a republican secret society of rebels later became the home of a Conservative Member of Parliament, Dr. Charles Ferguson, and the boyhood home of a future Ontario Premier, G. How-

ard Ferguson. Perhaps the longestlasting result of those days was the consistent support conservative politics found in the region after 1837. It was a rare Reformer (later Liberal) indeed who garnered enough support around here to hope for any political career. So far as Upper Canadian, later Ontario, politics were concerned, the mysterious Mr. Henderson, wherever he ended up, had chosen the wrong side.

The Photography of Jane Rutter

South Gower Business Park

ROCK MY HOUSE

ROCKIN' TOTS

Saturdays 10:30am-11:30am Ages 1-5

Parent/Toddler rhythm play for all. No appointment needed!

Welcome to our multifaceted music center, where we're dedicated to taking your musical journey to the next level. Our comprehensive facility features a rehearsal studio, event room, store, and school, offering lessons in drums, vocals, fiddle, piano, and more. Benefit from the expertise of our talented team, who are committed to guiding everyone towards their musical goals.

Learnforalifetime!

Kevin Eamon, proprietor and educator 699 South Gower Drive, Kemptville ON (613)258-5656 kevin@rockmyhousemc.com rockmyhousemc.com

MUSIC CAMP

July 8 - 12 and July 15 - 19 Ages 8 - 15.

Contact Rock My House for details.

Step into our house, where the heartbeat of music pulses beneath the roof, and where endless possibilities await. Join us, and let's make music together!

65,000 Ontario hospital workers awarded 6% wage increase

from CommunityWire

65,000 Ontario hospital workers represented by the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions – CUPE (OCHU-CUPE) and SEIU Healthcare will see a 6% wage increase (3% wage increases in each of the next two years), improvements to health and dental benefits, enhancements to weekend, evening, and night premiums, and pay for periods of quarantine or isolation due to outbreaks of communicable illnesses. This comes as a result of an intensive round of coordinated bargaining and almost identical, two-year arbitrated contracts awarded by Arbitrator William Kaplan to OCHU-CUPE and SEIU Healthcare on Thursday.

This award follows a June 2023 Kaplan decision that awarded these same workers a 6.25% retroactive wage increase following the defeat of Doug Ford’s unconstitutional Bill 124.

This past fall, along with Unifor, OCHU-CUPE and SEIU Healthcare proposed to bargain jointly with the Ontario Hospital Association but were denied in what the unions called “a decision clearly made to divide the unions and weaken outcomes for hospital workers.” Notwithstanding, the unions signed a Solidarity Pact and maintained collaboration and coordination across the bargaining tables. This is just the beginning from unions bringing workers together to save our hospitals.

In addition to other compensation and benefit improvements, the unions also achieved mandatory reporting around agency usage, which financial reporting makes clear is an expensive band-aid to the long-running staffing crisis.

The award also provides for a review of healthcare work which has been privatized, with a view to assessing the viability of bringing it back within Ontario’s public hospitals.

“Hospital workers can temporarily breathe a sigh of relief knowing their wages are going up six percent over the next two years with this new contract,” said Sharleen Stewart, President, SEIU Healthcare. “Patients deserve hospital workers who are focused on them, not the economic anxieties they face because of years of attacks from the provincial government. After our unions delivered Premier Ford a defeat on Bill 124, this award is a win for hospital workers who have been holding the healthcare system together with sacrifice and grit, and it’s a brutal recognition that hospital services will indeed collapse without better wages for frontline staff. While data shows that Ontario patients are waiting longer for the care they need, healthcare workers shouldn’t have to beg for the tools to do their jobs well. Unfortunately, the Ford government refused to join us at the bargaining table to hear directly from frontline staff who know the solution to healthcare access can only come from investments in nurse-to-patient ratios. On that, Premier Ford is AWOL. So, here’s a policy solution even politicians can understand: Raise the wage. Hire the staff. Fix the care.”

“Today’s arbitration decision will lift the spirits of frontline hospital workers who are struggling with impossible workloads in a staff retention crisis,” said Michael Hurley, President, OCHU-CUPE. “Significant improvements to dental and other benefits, real wage increases, and substantial adjustments to premiums will all contribute to making these frontline hospital staff feel valued and help them to better cope with the cost-of-living crisis that all working people are facing. New measures to police agency nursing profits, review contracted-out work, and provide stable weekend staffing are also good steps forward. However, we do regret that we were unable to advance towards nurseto-patient ratios in this agreement.”

The forever formula for good Health and longevity

Readers often ask me what it takes to reach 100. My answer is always the same. Good genes, good luck, and a lifetime of good choices about my health.

“What about your daily regimen of high dose vitamin C and lysine?” That’s right, I say. It’s my forever formula for health and longevity.

I’ve recommended all kinds of things to readers, like stepping on the bathroom scale every day, taking good care of teeth, getting sufficient fibre in the diet, and being wary of medication. My website (docgiff. com) has thousands of my articles posted, and although maybe not all of them have aged as well as I have been fortunate to do, readers can find all my recommendations there.

I’ve lived by my words. But above all else, it is the combination of vitamin C and lysine that have kept me alive this long – and especially after I experienced a heart attack at the age of 74. My doctors told me to take cholesterol lowering drugs (CLDs). But I know the side effects of those drugs. And I had interviewed Dr. Linus Pauling, two-time Nobel laureate, about his research

on high dose vitamin C.

In keeping with my conviction that alternative and natural approaches can be better remedies to some problems than pharmaceutical drugs, I opted to pass on CLDs and take high dose vitamin C and lysine for the rest of my life.

It is a testament to that decision, that at the age of 100, I am still here to recommend my “forever formula”. CardioVibe is a high dose vitamin C and lysine powder with magnesium, coenzyme Q10, quercetin, and L-proline. This is not another fad; it's a commonsense combination designed to provide the best chance for cardiovascular health, immune system support, and longevity.

Vitamin C and lysine are two nutrients that have been individually celebrated for their immense health benefits. Their synergy, too, is nothing short of remarkable. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant that boosts the immune system, supports collagen production, and protects against oxidative damage. But when Vitamin C is combined with lysine, the cardiovascular system

benefits.

What else makes up my forever formula? Magnesium supports hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. It aids in muscle function, nerve transmission, and bone health. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, magnesium helps with relaxation, making it an excellent choice for stress reduction and sleep improvement.

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in cellular energy production. As we age, our CoQ10 levels naturally decline, which can lead to fatigue and decreased vitality for you and for your organs.

Quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in various fruits and vegetables, serves as a natural defender against inflammation and oxidative stress. L-proline is an amino acid, crucial for collagen formation.

Now, why do I call it the “forever formula"? The answer is simple – because preventing the buildup of plaque in the arteries is not accomplished in one day. And the miniscule doses you will get in your diet or in a standard supplement will prevent scurvy and vitamin C deficiency, but not cardiovascular disease. High doses must be taken every day, always, for life.

I, at 100 years of age, believe in the power of science and nature to provide us with the tools for healthier, longer lives. And both science and nature are clear that high doses of vitamin C in combination with lysine assist with cardiovascular and immune health and do no harm over long-term use, unlike CLDs. Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @ docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones.

Annual KDH Memorial Service honours patients who have passed away

“Joy shared is joy multiplied; grief shared is grief diminished,” said Susan Brown, Chair of the Pastoral Care Committee at Kemptville District Hospital (KDH). She was describing the intention of the KDH Memorial Service, held annually to honour patients who have died in the previous year while admitted at the Hospital.

Every spring, immediate and extended family are invited to gather for the Memorial Service to honour their loved one, and to hear a message of hope and encouragement for those who are left to mourn. This year’s Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 2:00 pm. The service will be held at North Gren-

ville Community Church, located next door to KDH.

The Kemptville District Hospital Memorial Service is a collaboration between KDH, the KDH Pastoral Care Committee, and Beth Donovan Hospice.

“For some families, the Memorial Service may be the first and/or only public acknowledgement of the death of their loved one,” explained Brown. “Inviting and including them in the Service demonstrates to family and friends that they are valued by the Hospital, as much as their loved one was while a patient.”

KDH’s CEO Frank Vassallo echoed this sentiment: “The Memorial Service is an important event in the annual life of KDH,” he stated. “It gives us an opportunity to say, ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to have cared for your family member. Your loved one was valued, and is not forgotten’.”

Brown shared that at last year’s Memorial Service, “Some family members were visibly moved, some offered a sincere thanks to the Hospital for

hosting this event and for the kindness and empathy shared that day.” Friends and family have also commented that the Service provides an opportunity to visit and share with people who understand what they’ve been going through since the loss of their loved one, because they’ve been going through it too.

All family members and friends of people who passed away at KDH in 2023 are invited to attend the Service on May 9, 2024. Family members and friends are asked to bring a framed photo of their loved one to the Memorial Service. The photos, which are returned to their owners after the service, help to put a muchloved face to each name.

The KDH Pastoral Care Committee is a subgroup of the KDH Auxiliary; all of its members are volunteers. The Committee is interdenominational, offering support to any and all denominations.

Those wishing to attend the KDH Memorial Service are requested to RSVP by April 25, 2024 to kdh_info@kdh.on.ca.