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Vol 8, NO 36
One man’s trash...
KYC volunteers Helen Pethick and Bruce Wehlau by Marguerite Boyer Brian Foster, who works at the Waste Reduction transfer site near Oxford Mills, was becoming concerned over the amount of beer cans and wine bottles being dropped off at the site for recycling. He was seeing an increase in this due to Covid, and people not being able to drop off their returns at the Beer Store.
And when the store started accepting them again, there were line ups, and people just got frustrated and decided to drop them off at the waste site instead. One day, when he was talking to someone from the board of the Kemptville Youth Centre [KYC], he asked her if perhaps she would know what could be done with these
returns, rather than seeing them dumped at the site. She suggested that he contact the KYC, and maybe they could gather a group of volunteers to collect them, as a way to raise money for the Centre. Bruce Wehlau, President of the KYC board, was contacted and he gathered up a group of volunteers, went to the site and collected, in
Sept. 9, 2020
one run, 1,680 cans, which transferred into $167.00 for the Youth Centre. They have so far, after six visits, raised a total of $600. The work is labour-intensive. All cans need to be crushed before being returned to the Beer Store, which asks people dropping off cans to crush them first. This, understandably, makes their task easier. There were only three people collecting when I went to the transfer station to cover the story. So, you can image the hours it would take for them to crush all the cans. The other option is to purchase a can crusher. The cans are an unexpected source of revenue for the KYC, but the board ask that you do not leave your returns at the Youth Centre itself. Brian Foster has put up a sign directing people where their bottles and cans can be dropped off beside the recycle bins at the transfer station. This project is not only helping the KYC, but also ties in nicely with the Municipality’s recycling project and then, in turn, with Ewaste. So it takes just one person, and this being Brian, to actually care enough about the community and come up with a solution. This is what North Grenville is all about.
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40 Years of Hope The 40th Annual Terry Fox Run: Virtual Edition
Reopening schools safely matters to everyone
40 years ago, Terry Fox set out on his Marathon of Hope not knowing how Canadians would respond to his plea, “Somewhere the hurting must stop.” Canada answered that plea with Terry Fox Runs in hundreds of communities, thousands of schools, and with millions of supporters across Canada. This year, the global pandemic has changed so much about our lives from how we work, whom we spend our time with, where we go. But it has not changed our desire to help others, to make a difference, to bring light into the dark, just like Terry did in 1980. The Marathon of Hope might be turning 40 years old but the message is timeless. On Sunday September 20, Canadians will show up again for Terry and for cancer research, not in person but in spirit, in neighbourhoods across Canada as they participate in the first-ever virtual “Terry Fox Run. One Day. Your Way”. There will
That’s why the government of Ontario has worked with health officials, school boards and educators to develop a comprehensive plan to keep kids and staff safe. • Physical distancing measures will be implemented such as desk separation, signs, floor markings and one-way hallways. • Face coverings will be required for staff and students in Grades 4-12. • Hand hygiene will be enabled with hand sanitizer and hand washing. • More nurses will be in schools. • School cleaning will be enhanced.
be walkers, runners, bikers, and hikers; some will get up at 4:30am to honour Terry’s favourite time to run, while others will walk and Skype family in Europe to participate in a global effort. In these uncertain times, the one certainty we have is that cancer is not waiting for COVID to be over. Important findings continue to be made, as seen when Terry Fox-funded scientists at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto mined the uncharted territory of the genome of a cancer cell and discovered gold: new protein targets for drug development against prostate cancer. Previously dismissed as "junk" DNA, noncoding regions were once thought to have little to offer for a cure against cancer. "We are exploring uncharted territory," says Dr. Matthew Lupien. Now in its 40th year the Terry Fox Run has evolved into the largest fundraising event in support of cancer
research in the world, with events taking place in 33 countries across 5 continents annually – over 10,000 in Canada This September, help celebrate a favourite Canadian Fall tradition that will look a little different but have the same heart. Find “Your Way”, and make a difference in the lives of millions of Canadians. Your effort will ensure that cancer research continues to move us closer to a cure every day. Register to fundraise at terryfox.org.
Kemptville Canadian Tire makes donation to Salvation Army
Kemptville Canadian Tire owner, Frank Hoffman, presents donation to the Salvation Army's Calvin and Erin Wong. by Hilary Thomson Kemptville Canadian Tire made another generous donation to the Salvation Army Food Bank last week. Throughout the months of July and August, the Canadian Tire store in Kemptville had a wooden play castle in their lobby and they were asking patrons to fill it with toys, household items, and pet food to support the Salvation Army. In total, they collected six large bags of pet food, and five boxes of toys and household items. At the end of August, the castle itself was raffled off to the highest bidder, raising $200 for the Food Bank. Owner of Kemptville Canadian Tire, Frank Hoffman, has also kept up with in-house fundraising. Through various contests and games, his staff raised $1,180, as well as a donation of $500 in Canadian Tire gift cards to help support Salvation Army clients. “The Salvation Army wishes to thank Frank Hoffman and the staff at Canadian Tire and its donors for their generosity and spirit of giving during these difficult times,” said Kemptville Salvation Army Director, Calvin Wong. Frank and his staff contribute so much to their friends and neighbours, and are always to be relied upon to step up when any need arises. Fantastic community supporters.
Visit ontario.ca/ReopeningSchools Paid for by the Government of Ontario
Sept. 9, 2020
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A new local currency in North Grenville A new local currency is being distributed that can be spent at your favourite North Grenville businesses. NG Green will be distributed in the community starting in September. This currency can be spent at participating businesses. Visit www.LoveNG. ca and use the filter "Accepts NG Green" to see where you can dole out the NG Green cash. This currency expires December 31, 2020, and is not redeemable for cash, and change cannot be given. NG Green is non-transferable and resale is prohibited. The introduction of the NG Green Currency is a part
of the Business Support Programs created by the Business Support Group which has informed the Municipality’s response to COVID-19. A large number of businesses in NG were forced to temporarily close their doors in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the economy is beginning to reopen, many businesses still remain closed or have had to pivot their services, causing interruptions and operating challenges. The Economic Development team has worked closely with the Business Support Group, convened by Council and comprised of representatives
from the four main business networks in North Grenville, to provide various programs including webinars, business outreach, and marketing opportunities including the #LoveNG website and campaign. “NG Green is an innovative way to incentivize residents to shop local as much as possible,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Many local businesses have stepped up during the pandemic to serve their customers in new and different ways, while facing enormous stress.” “North Grenville businesses need your support more than ever, and this new
local currency is a great way to keep your dollars in our community,” added Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman. Residents can win NG Green through online contests hosted on the Municipality of North Grenville’s Facebook and Instagram channels. NG Green will also be distributed through random giveaways for people shopping locally. Council has allocated an additional $150,000 to these Businesses Support Programs. For more information, visit www.InvestNorthGrenville.ca/NGgreen.
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Another COVID Cancellation:
Knights of Columbus Charity Golf Tournament by Anthony O’Sullivan On the Saturday after Labour Day, Nationview Golf Course would normally be busy with golfers playing in the Knights of Columbus Charity Golf Tournament. Golfers from around the region compete in a best ball tournament followed by dinner with live and silent
auctions. Money raised in the tournament goes back into the North Grenville community to charities such as Canadian Tire Jump Start, Beth Donovan Hospice, Kemptville Home Support, Kemptville Hospital Foundation, Ryan's Well, Naomi's Centre, and others. The Knights of Columbus food bank has been
NG Concert Choir spirit undimmed by pandemic
by Elisabeth Rubli, NGCC Publicist These are strange times indeed and nothing, as we have known it before, is the same. Singing is not permitted, so how does a choir keep its spirit alive … and stay healthy? After cancelled concerts and a long pause, the North Grenville Concert Choir’s Musical Director, Phillip Konopka, has come up with a creative way to keep everyone engaged, to continue to develop musical skills and to sing! Many choir members have really missed the weekly rehearsals, along with the excitement of preparing for performances; but since this is impossible these days, Konopka is offering to lead online workshops where he will have members join in from their homes. There will be a variety of sessions offered, including listening to him play in order to learn the music for future performances, going through all parts at once and then sectional parts, as well as doing a few sessions of music theory to help with basic sight reading. It promises to be interesting, to say the least, but these are interesting times and we all have had to adapt to new ways of doing things. This will allow the choir members to stay connected, continue learning and continue singing, if only from their homes for now. If you have ever thought of joining a choir but did not have the courage or confidence to do so, here is your chance! New members are always welcome. There will be approximately 8 – 10 hour-long sessions held every Monday starting on September 21. For more info, please contact ngconcertchoir@ gmail.com, or call 613-258-1281. www.ngcc.net. Sept.9, 2020
busy assisting families and individuals who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19. The food bank continues to offer support to local families. This year, as with many other charitable events, COVID-19 has dealt a blow to gathering for dinner and the fundraising auctions. The
15th annual golf tournament will have to await next September, 2021. In the meantime the local Knights of Columbus council wants to thank its faithful sponsors and to encourage the community to support them.
Local Covid-19 update
by David Shanahan It was to be expected that there would be a spike in covid-19 cases in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark once things began to open up again, and that has been the case. Fortunately, it has not proved too serious to date. Between August 18 and August 27, there were nine new confirmed cases in the tri-county area, of which six (6) were in the UCLG East region, that is, within North Grenville, Merrickville-Wolford, Augusta, and Edwardsburg-Cardinal. The other three were in Lanark East region. The Leeds Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit noted on September 4: “There have been no new COVID-19 cases identified in Leeds, Grenville & Lanark [LGLDHU]since August 27. To date, there has been 365 cases, 4 of which are active, 309 of which have recovered, and 52 of which have been fatal. There are currently 0 active outbreak(s) within institutions.” Daily COVID-19 case counts peaked in LGLDHU in midApril. Since the pandemic began, there have been 52 deaths in the Unit’s area, of which 49 were in long-term care facilities, and three in the community. There have been no deaths in the LGLDHU since April 5. With the re-opening of schools, and an increase in the numbers going back to workplaces, it is vital that everyone continue to abide by the preventative measures recommended by health officials, including face masking and social distancing. Whether you believe these measures are necessary or not, it is an act of solidarity with your community to provide support and encouragement to friends and neighbours during these stressful days. 3
"We are open for your convenience during these troubled times" Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
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South Gower Business Park
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We ’r e H e r e To S e r v e Yo u
Ron's Small Engine Repair We offer Pickup and Delivery Open 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Call Ron for more information ronssmallengines@outlook.com South Gower
Call (613) 258-9720
1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville, Ontario
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Ron started out tinkering on equipment in 1986, working for his father's rental business. He had a natural knack for mechanics and has made his living as a mechanic for the past 25 years. As life moved and changed, the opportunity to open his own repair ronssmallengines@outlook.com shop in 2017 became a reality and he has not looked back. Ron treats all of his custom1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville ers the way he would like to be treated; in a fair and respectful manner. He works hard (across from old Bingo Hall) to repair any equipment that is brought to him in a timely and cost-effective manner. Established in April 2017, repairing small engines of varying kinds. Servicing the immediate surrounding area. Ron's Small Engine Repair is an authorized service for Poulan, Briggs, and Stratton as well as MTD Power Equipment. Servicing your lawn equipment as well as all engine repair.
Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720
ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)
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Sept. 9, 2020
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Low Water status returned to “Normal”
from the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority Watershed conditions in the Rideau Valley Watershed have returned to “Normal’ under the Ontario Low Water Response Program. With significant precipitation during the last month, the amount of rainfall received throughout the watershed is at or above average values for this time of year. As a result of this precipitation, stream flows and water levels are now at or above average values for this time of year. Looking ahead, the seven-day weather forecasts suggests we’ll continue to receive more rain. Parks Canada continues to closely monitor the water levels throughout the Rideau Canal system inside the Rideau Valley watershed. Water levels in the reservoir lakes, located in the upper reaches of the Rideau Valley watershed, are either normal or above normal (i.e., Christie Lake) for this time of year and are expected to decline but this will depend on rainfall amounts received in the coming weeks. Rideau River flows downstream of Big Rideau Lake are now near normal. Water levels in the Rideau River below Smiths Falls are within navigable ranges for this time of year. Conservation Authority staff continue to monitor conditions and communicate with water managers throughout the watershed. Updates to this message will be issued as conditions warrant. More resources: – Ministry of Environment and Climate Change: www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-timeswater-shortage – Ontario’s Low Water Response program: www.ontario.ca/page/low-water-response-program – RVCA website: www.rvca.ca _ Hourly and daily streamflows and water levels: www.rvca.ca/watershed-monitoring-reporting/reporting/ streamflow-water-levels
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
The Canadian Cancer Society, along with the Neon Night Kemptville committee, are excited to announce that the North Grenville Council has proclaimed that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The Childhood Cancer Awareness Month flag was raised at the NG Municipal Centre and will fly proudly for the entire month. Neon Night Fun Run Chair, Yvonne Lane, addressed members of council and Neon Night volunteers at the official flag raising ceremony last Wednesday. "The community is behind the warriors that are fighting cancer," she said. "With the Municipality recognizing Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, it shows that we are all in this together, this fight against cancer." One child with cancer is too many. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September and all throughout the year, the Canadian Cancer Society cares about every single child living with cancer and their families. Over the past 15 years the Canadian Cancer Society has invested over $50 million in the last 15 years, supporting more than 170 research projects to help children survive cancer and lead full lives. This research would not happen without the generous support of people living in communities such as this one. The 2020 Virtual Neon Night will run from September 1 – September 19, with a goal to raise $20,000 through online fundraising, contests and an online auction to support pediatric cancer research. This year's event is open to anyone in the community and beyond to participate or donate. For more information, to register or donate please go to: www.cancer.ca/neonnightkemptville. Members of council and Neon Night Fun Run volunteers gather for the official raising of the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month flag at the Municipal Centre last Wednesday.
Seaway Surge Baseball Club looks ahead by Chris Warren After a Spring and early Summer of uncertainty, the Seaway Surge Baseball Club wraps up their abbreviated summer season this week in the National Capital Ontario Baseball Association (NCOBA). The Seaway Surge fielded 9 teams from 9U to 18U this year, with the shortened season beginning in late July. Our players and coaches were very excited to return to the field, even with the extra precautions taken during the Sept.9, 2020
pandemic. Regular hand sanitizing, wiping of equipment, and social distancing became the regular routine at the diamond, but that did not stop the Surge teams from having fun and providing strong competition throughout all age groups in NCOBA. “The pandemic has challenged everyone to make adjustments, and baseball is no different”, said Surge President Tim Hamilton. “We are very proud of all our coaches and players, and thank our parents for being on board with the
changes and contributing to a successful season.” With the summer season almost complete, the Surge are looking ahead to their Fall programs, and tryouts for our 2021 summer season teams. Information for Fall ball will be posted online shortly, and Summer 2021 team tryouts are going ahead beginning the weekend of September 11, 2020. Registration is open online for all age groups, with a $25 tryout fee. Our programs can not be successful without the contri-
butions of our coaches. The Seaway Surge are looking to fill future coaching vacancies for the 2021 summer season at the 9U and 18U age groups. If you’re interested in developing players in the fastest growing baseball program in eastern Ontario, please visit out website for contact information. For more information on the Seaway Surge Baseball Club, please visit our website: http://www.seawaysurge.com. 5
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Food Bank
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General Practice Corporate / Commercial Family Law/ Criminal law Estates Real Estate Wills & Powers of Attorney
The Knights of Columbus in Kemptville offers a food bank service to those in need in the community of North Grenville We provide a selection of canned, packaged and dry goods For more information please call Dave at 613 258 3683
tom@tmblaw.ca 613.258.1277 222 Prescott St., Kemptville
Pick up at Holy Cross Church hall preferred – delivery can be arranged if required
THOMAS M. BYRNE Barrister and Solicitor
This service is supported by the community of North Grenville
Council moves ahead with new Campus governance by Hilary Thomson With the help of a report presented to council at the special meeting last week, the Municipality of North Grenville now has a plan to move forward with the implementation of a new governance structure for the Kemptville Campus. Council received the report from Strategy Corp, a company hired to look at the Campus governance structure and make suggestions on how the Municipality could reorganize it to better facilitate the realization of the vision set out for the Campus when they acquired the 850acre property in 2018. The initial Strategic Plan for the College, prepared by BDO, outlined education and training, health and wellness, and economic development as the three pillars of the new organization. “Fundamentally, it’s such an exciting project that you are trying to realize with the Campus,” Strategy Corp Partner, John Matheson, told council. “It was really a
pleasure to be part of thinking about how to take it to the next level.” By conducting stakeholder interviews, looking at case studies, and assessing the organization’s current structure, Strategy Corp was able to make some recommendations to council about how to move forward. Currently, the board of directors for the Campus only has three members: Mayor Peckford, Deputy Mayor McManaman, and Stéphane Vachon from the CEPEO, the school board that owns about seven acres on the Campus where they have their school, École Rivière Rideau. It was outlined in the presentation that the current size and makeup of the board is not ideal for moving the Campus towards a sustainable future. “The consensus is that the current board has done an exceptional job,” said Strategy Corp’s Mary Ellen Bench. “But there is also a general consensus that time is short, so we need a new model, and we need to move forward fast to achieve that.” Strategy Corp’s recom-
Campus to become a selfsustaining organization by 2024. It was also mentioned that council should look at the Campus as a regional facility and go beyond the Municipality when looking to recruit board members. “What you want is sleeves rolled up and action,” John said about the role of the new board. Council seemed very pleased with the report and relieved that they now have a way forward to bolster the growth of the Kemptville Campus hub. Councillor John Barclay said it will be important to get the right mix of people around the table when it comes to the new board. “I think what we’ve got here is like a how-to manual of how to get things going really quickly and carefully,” he said. Mayor Peckford said she is thrilled to have this report and a way forward that will allow them to run the Campus in a way that is sustainable and accountable to the Municipality and the public. She also mentioned that there have already been some con-
mendation was for the creation of an operational board with 7-11 members, with various skills and expertise related to the mandate of the Campus. The board would not include members of council, to facilitate the “arms length” approach to operations that was in the original vision for the organization. The report also recommends that the board does not include representation from tenants of the Campus, as this could create a conflict of interest with decision making. With an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the board would report to council on items like their annual budget. Council would also be involved in appointing the Board Chair and the creation of the Campus Board Plan. While the Campus Executive Director (ED) will be chosen by the board, the report also outlines the importance of communication between the Mayor, Campus ED, the North Grenville CAO, and the Board Chair to facilitate the work that needs to be done for the
versations with stakeholders about bringing apprenticeships back to the Campus, which will help further their educational mandate. “If we can equip a new board with some early success around things like that, it will only serve to build and create further opportunity, especially on the educational and economic development side,” she said. “We’ve got a campus and a facility that, if managed properly, has the potential to just soar.” The Mayor acknowledged at the meeting that council was having a conversation about the Campus at a time when there is an ongoing dialogue in the community about the correctional facility slated for a site just across the road. CAO Gary Dyke confirmed at the meeting that both the reorganization of the Campus governance structure and the master planning process for the Campus currently underway, is continuing regardless of the province’s announcement. “That information will be fed to the Solicitor General’s office and we’ll adapt
Municipality to implement organic waste program by Hilary Thomson The Municipality of North Grenville will be implementing organic waste pick up starting November 1. The decision was made as a result of public consultation regarding the future of waste management in the community, which included town hall meetings, a survey, and consultation with the Municipality’s Environmental Action Advisory Committee. The survey found that 72% of urban and 54% of rural respondents voted in favour of an organics program in the Municipality. “The overall feeling from these engagements was that North Grenville was looking for a progressive and innovative approach to waste in the community,” said North Grenville’s EngineerSept. 9, 2020
ing Technologist, Brandon Shipman, who presented the report to council. This consultation was undertaken partially because the Municipality’s waste management contract was up for renewal, but also to address some upcoming changes to provincial policy involving waste management. These include the possible ban of organic waste in regular garbage disposal across the province, and the move towards full producer responsibility when it comes to the blue box program. As part of the Waste-Free Ontario Act, 2016, producers will be fully responsible for paying for the recycling of their packaging by 2025. Brandon explained that the Municipality has two options when it comes to the changes in the blue box
program. They can continue to administer the program and have the cost paid for by the producers, or have the producers operate the blue box program themselves. North Grenville council passed a resolution at a special council meeting on September 1 to award the waste management contract to Emterra Environmental. This new contract will include biweekly solid waste collection, dual stream (plastics and paper) recycling collection, weekly separated organics collection, and curbside leaf and yard waste and bulky item collection up to four times a year, respectively. According to the report, it is estimated that this new contact will cost the Municipality roughly $375,000 more than what was previously spent on the waste management
contract, in the first year. This includes the cost to purchase the green bins used for the organic waste program, which is estimated to cost $176,750. It does not include the cost of the yard waste and heavy item collection, as this is a new program to North Grenville and staff could not estimate the values using previous data. Staff will be continuing to look into possible partnerships that would create cost savings for processing both recycling and organics. They will also be looking into the revision of the bag tag model, which is necessary to help pay for the increase in cost associated with more waste management services in the Municipality. “The cost of the additional programs could be divided between taxation and bag tag costs, as council sees
6
fit,” Brandon said. With the organics program, staff estimate that they will see a 35% drop in the tonnage of garbage collected by the Municipality. Brandon also noted that with every 25¢ increase in bag tag costs, they estimate that they will see a $60,000 increase in revenue, even with less garbage being collected through the new program. To cover the services offered by this new waste management contract, they are looking at a possible increase of $1 in the cost of bag tags in the Municipality. “It is a user pay system, so the bag tags, from a departmental standpoint, is the way we recommend moving forward,” Director of Public Works, Karen Dunlop, said at the meeting. Staff will be looking into the bag tag model of cost recovery and will be
as we go forward,” he said. Deputy Mayor McManaman said that, while it was never their vision to have a correctional facility on that piece of land, he is still optimistic about the future of the Campus and its ability to be a thriving part of the community. “Who knows? This institution may advance that as well,” he said. Mayor Peckford agreed that a correctional facility was definitely not on their radar when it came to uses for that property. “That being said, the master planning process has some incredibly exciting ideas encapsulated in it and I think the governance proposal that you’ve outlined is very relevant and very a propos, no matter what is happening with the farm side,” she said.
coming back to council with a concrete number for consideration in early October. Mayor Peckford believes that the recommendations from staff reflected the appetite of North Grenville residents for a more progressive waste management system, and that securing the organic waste pick up for the Municipality is important given the way the provincial regulations regarding waste management are moving. “We could do what we’ve been doing for decades and just stare down the future and wish everyone good luck, or we could, at this stage, attempt to be more innovative, and I think more prudent, in the long run in terms of what may be coming down the pipe,” she said.
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1 in 5 Ontario nonprofits expected to close in the next six months Ontario Press Service COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on Ontario nonprofits and charities, with one in five organizations expecting to close within six months, more than 30% laying off staff and more than half losing volunteers. The new data comes from a bilingual survey conducted by L’Assemblée de la francophonie de l’Ontario (AFO) and the Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN) to understand the impact of the pandemic on the nonprofit sector three months into the crisis, with over 1,100 nonprofit organizations responding. Ten per cent of respondents are using their own personal funds to meet the financial needs of their organizations. Twenty-three per cent of respondents expect their situation to get worse, including 40% of sports, recreation and other social clubs and 31% of arts, culture and heritage organizations. “With the results of the various surveys that AFO has
conducted since the pandemic started, we know that one in five nonprofit organizations is in a critical situation. Francophones in Ontario have taken 400 years to build a network of institutions and nonprofits. Losing them would represent a dangerous step towards assimilation and would inevitably lead to a reduction in the supply of services in French in the province. Governments would lose as well, with many nonprofits providing services on their behalf, ” said Carol Jolin, AFO President. "Piecemeal solutions, although helpful in the shortterm, are not working and federal and provincial government supports not reaching organizations,” said Cathy Taylor, executive director of ONN. Three-quarters of respondents did not benefit from any provincial funding measures, while two-thirds did not benefit from any federal relief measures. Many social service and health organizations that delivered services through the worst
days of the crisis were still waiting for pandemic pay at the end of June. COVID-19 is not only affecting the communities nonprofits and charities serve, but will have a ripple effect on Ontario’s economy. The province’s 58,000 nonprofits and charities employ one million workers and contribute $50 billion to the province’s GDP. Said Ms. Taylor, “Ontarians count on nonprofits every day for child care, affordable housing, summer camps, seniors visiting programs, art galleries, faith spaces, food banks and more. If our sector loses 20% of its organizations, it will be devastating for Ontarians and will put significant pressure on governments to fill these big gaps.” The good news: nonprofits are collaborating in new ways to adapt and serve, with 43% of respondents collaborating locally with grassroots groups to respond to the needs of their communities. The two organizations are recommending a suite of solutions
based on the results of the survey: A nonprofit sector stabilization fund from the Ontario government. Accelerating deployment of provincial pandemic pay, and other supports, which has taken too long to reach frontline organizations Making the federal emergency wage subsidy program more flexible and responsive to nonprofit business models. Investment in rural broadband by the federal and Ontario governments to help nonprofits and small businesses thrive in small communities across Ontario. As a sector, Ontario nonprofits receive less than half of their revenue from governments, which means they can leverage these public investments - via business activities, donations, and volunteer contributions - into programs and services that directly benefit the people of Ontario.
Drivers reminded to exercise caution The Grenville Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police reminds motorists that school buses are returning to area roads. Motorists are reminded to exercise caution due to the expected
OPP Report the north grenville
TIMES Gord Logan Marketing Consultant
Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca Sept.9, 2020
On August 26, 2020 shortly before 7:00 p.m. Grenville officers from the Ontario Provincial Police responded to a walk in at the Grenville County Detachment in the Town of Kemptville, Ontario. A driver had attended the detachment for an appointment with an officer. After the driver was spoken to an Approved Screening Device (ASD) was utilized at the scene. The driver was arrested and brought into the detachment for further testing. The driver, aged 51 years old, from North Grenville was charged with: Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) – Criminal Code sec-
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
The Municipality has created a dedicated webpage for updates related to COVID-19 (www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus)
UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETING September 15, 2020 at 6:30 pm **NOTE: Council meetings are live streamed and archived on the Municipal website. Agendas for upcoming meetings are published on the Friday prior to the meeting and minutes are posted after they are approved. Visit www.northgrenville. ca and click on Agendas, Minutes & Video in the Govern tab. ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS Health, Wellness and Fitness Advisory Committee – Monday, September 14 at 4:00 pm at the Municipal Centre Community & Economic Development Advisory Committee – Thursday, September 17 at 3:00 pm at the Municipal Centre Accessibility Advisory Committee – Monday, September 21 at 4:00 pm at the Municipal Centre Active Transportation Advisory Committee – Thursday, September 24 at 5:00 pm at the Municipal Centre **NOTE: These meetings will be attended in person by Committee Members and staff. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to maintain health and safety measures, access by members of the public to the meeting room is restricted. Please send any questions to the Committee Clerk (jworkman@northgrenville.on.ca) by 2:00 p.m. the day of the meeting. These deputations will be read aloud to the Committee and will be made part of the public record.
NORTH GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS
The Municipal Office is open to the public between the hours of 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Residents and businesses can continue to access Municipal services by phone, email and online. For more information visit www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus
OPP reminder: school buses are back on the roads increase in pedestrians, cyclists and school buses, and to give themselves extra commuting time. Students will no doubt be excited and may forget some of the safety rules required for safe travels. OPP officers will be watching for drivers who disobey traffic laws in relation to school bus safety. A zero tolerance approach will be taken. In accordance with the Highway Traffic Act (HTA), motorists encountering a stopped school bus, that has its safety lights and
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equipment activated, must stop before reaching the bus and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the safety lights and equipment have been deactivated. This applies whether you are meeting or following a school bus, and includes multi-lane roads. The only exception is when driving on a road with a median - traffic coming from the opposite direction is not required to stop. Vehicle owners can be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus, even if
they weren't driving. The fine for failing to stop for a school bus is $400 to $2,000 and 6 demerit points for the first offence. Subsequent offences carry a fine between $1,000 and $4,000, six demerit points and possible jail time (up to six months). Drivers should also be prepared to yield to student pedestrians and cyclists. Parents of students who will be walking or cycling to school are encouraged to speak with their children about the rules of the road that apply to them.
tion 320.14(1)(b) The accused was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville on September 18, 2020. OPP are reminding the public that a 90 day automatic drivers licence suspension and a seven day impoundment of your vehicle accompanies any impaired driving charge. The Grenville County OPP remains committed to reducing impaired driving. Your help is requested in assisting with keeping our roads safe. If you suspect a driver is impaired call 911. You could be responsible for saving a life.
During the summer months, the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has responded to a few bear sightings in the Grenville County’s area. The public is reminded that black bears that come into a populated area aren't always a threat to public safety. The following explains who to contact if you encounter a bear; Emergency Situations: CALL 911 if a black bear poses an immediate threat to personal safety by exhibiting threatening or aggressive behavior, such as: Entering a school yard when school is in session 7
Digital Service Squad-Team Members (Two Temporary Positions) The Municipality of North Grenville is accepting resumes
from interested and qualified candidates for two temporary positions of Digital Service Squad-Team Members. The closing date to receive applications is 4 pm on Friday, September 11, 2020. Additional information is available at www.northgrenville.ca/careers.
The Municipality of North Grenville
285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: 613-258-9569 x206 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002
www.NorthGrenville.ca
Stalking people and lingering at the site Entering or trying to enter a residence Wandering into a public gathering Killing livestock/pets and is lingering at the site Ontario Provincial Police are the first responder in the Grenville County for any emergency situation. At the request of the police, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry will respond to emergency situations to assist. Non-Emergency Encounters: Call the toll-free Bear Wise reporting line at 1-866514-2327 (TTY 705-945-
7641) if a black bear is: Roaming around, checking garbage cans Breaking into a shed where garbage or food is stored In a tree Pulling down a bird feeder or knocking over a barbecue Moving through a backyard or field but is not lingering This line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week from April 1 until November 30. Trained staff can provide advice to you about black bear behaviour, how to avoid human-bear conflicts, and how to remove attractants from your property.
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Shelter from the storm by David Shanahan We’ve been dealing with the new way of life for six months now, and this very strange year has brought out much that we didn’t know, or didn’t want to know, about the world in which we live. We’ve been left dazed and confused, to coin a phrase, by the incredible number of deaths and confirmed cases of Covid-19 around the world, and by how easily our entire social systems can be thrown off kilter. It’s said that times of crisis brings out the best and worst in people, and I suppose the same could be said for nations as well. There are fears for our children going back to school; fears about our seniors and vulnerable, and the way in which this pandemic has affected them in long-term care homes and residences. Last week, a staff member at Dundas Manor tested posi-
tive, though asymptomatic, and the residents and staff were tested with no other cases being identified. We are not out of the woods yet. But there have been effects on society generally that will not be easily put in the past, even after this virus has been dealt with. It had been a growing aspect of life over the past years that trust issues have become central in our thinking. In short, who do you trust to tell you the truth? I’m glad to say that trust in print media has risen in the estimation of the public, and social media platforms are now far less trusted. This is, in part at least, because of the failure of organisations like Facebook and Twitter to deal with misinformation and hate speech issues in any responsible way. At the same time, various authoritarian governments around the globe have used the pandemic to increase ways to undermine, intimidate, threaten and even im-
prison media workers who seek to hold them to account. Journalists have always been a target of such regimes and many are murdered each year for reporting the truth. That is the everyday experience of many in such countries, but, thankfully, not in ours. Nevertheless, even democratic governments have been happy to attack the media (or the Main Stream Media - MSM - as they put it), in order to undermine public confidence in what they report. We have become used to terms like “fake news”, “hoax”, and “alternative facts” being thrown around without care for the effect they have on society. We have seen governments lie openly, then deny they ever said those words. That attitude to politics and behaviour has even raised its head in Canada, when politicians take the low road and make accusations that go way beyond what the facts may warrant. To some
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, “Racism” My morning routine is: first, start the coffee. Then turn on the radio to CBC Ottawa to find out what happened in the world overnight and the latest local news items. This morning Halle Cotnam was talking about a cowardly racist act that had taken place in Pembroke, where a group of teenagers threw a rock at an elderly lady, striking her in the eye, while yelling racist slurs at her. It just so happened that the lady was of Asian descent. Then, of course, there is the civil unrest in the U.S. because of the racism issue there which, I might add, in my opinion for what it’s worth, is fueled by Trump. Personally, I think he is a card carrying member of the KKK, but that’s my personal opinion. I digress. The reason why humans have different skin colour and shades, different hair textures and eye shapes is quite simple actually. As humans evolved and spread across the earth, it was necessary for human features to adapt for protec-
tion from the environmental elements. For example, the closer humans moved toward the equator, the darker their skin had to be to protect them from the heat of the sun. The hair had to be curly for the same reason. The further from the equator humans moved and settled, again their facial colour, shade, eye shape, etc had to adapt in order for humans to survive the environment. For example, human beings with round shaped eyes, especially blue or light green, could not live in a harsh northern climate. This is basic science and should be taught to every school age child in the world. It is the only way to finally put a STOP to racism. Racism is a learned behavior, and if children are taught in school about why human beings are not all the same there will be no racism. What person who is going into surgery to receive a lifesaving organ first asks the surgeon, “doctor, before you place that lifesaving organ inside my body, can you please tell me the colour of the donor’s skin”. Then what about
blood transfusions, there is no way to tell the skin colour of any blood donor. I am so sick and tired of racism. There is absolutely no reason for it. Every human being is placed here on earth to make a contribution to life on this great planet. In doing so, we are called to love and respect every living human, creature, plant, and animal, and to care and protect the environment, to preserve it for the next generation. The science of race should be taught to every child in school, at an early age. This is the only way racism is going to be stomped out once and for all. Josephine Herman Dear Editor, Suggestions for the location of a new prison in Ontario: 1) Rockliffe Park: The Governor General's residence has loads of publicly owned land centrally located close to services and courts, and with a picturesque treed vista to keep the inmates and guards calm and happy. Plus, the Governor General and the
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as some genuine ones, ones by which we are warned of genuine dangers. The other is that the fringe theorists, or those who were once on the fringe, have become mainstream, spreading fear, doubt, division, and genuine fake news (an interesting concept!) across the free and open world wide web. People with the most outlandish theories are even capable of getting elected in democratic votes. Qanon is just the most obvious example, and it’s not the only one. What can we do? Not a great deal, sadly. We have praised the Internet for providing us with a relatively cheap way of talking to each other and sharing our thoughts in a most unfettered way. Now we have to face the fact that we have a duty to ourselves and our communities to think about what we read, to be selective about what we promote and retweet, and to build up a set of sites and
sources that we have tried and tested and know are reliable. Not easy, certainly not as easy as allowing some algorithm to do that for us. Personally, I would love both Facebook and Twitter to just go away and leave us alone. But they have made themselves part of the furniture now, and that is unlikely to happen, especially given the enormous amount of money they make for the few. So, we’re stuck with them, unless we can get back to what they were supposed to be at the beginning: a great way to stay in contact with faraway friends, people with similar interests, etc. Instead, they’ve become the most effective way to spread fear, hatred, conspiracy theories and division. Maybe we could boycott them for a time and see if they respond? Whatever we do, we need some shelter from that particular storm.
Prime Minister can improve their management skills with weekly inmate focus groups. It will enhance the socioeconomic diversity of that part of Ottawa. 2) Kanata next to the arena: Lots of parking space, and prison field trips would improve attendance at hockey games and concerts. Local tech companies could host special education for inmates on learning to code for post incarceration job opportunities. 2) Rosedale: There are some wonderful natural areas with trees in Rosedale's many ravines. Also, there are some great secluded trails that the inmates on day passes can enjoy. Field trips to Casa Loma. 3) Queen's Park: Centrally located in the heart of Toronto, once again a nature park with trees, close to amenities and take out and ideally situated to take advantage of public transit on the Bloor subway line. Inmates could be shuttled back and forth to their various court appearances on the subway, which would boost ridership and revenue for the TTC. Inmates and guards would have a hands-on opportunity to learn
more about how the Ontario government functions. 4) Etobicoke: Lots of available public land in Centennial Park. Inmate vs MPP golf tournaments on the local golf courses. Close to the Premier's residence, which would facilitate good topdown supervision from the government. Stephen Hammond
be a "consultation". Consultations imply gathering information to inform a decision. Yet we are told that the decision as to location already has been taken. This is simply unacceptable. I hope that the residents of this community band together as never before to keep this from happening so close to the community. Victor Jarjour
Dear Editor, So what do years of supporting Conservative candidates and governments in this riding get us? A jail - whose location is just over a kilometre from several schools and a hospital which together form a "community safety zone". Is anyone thinking at Queens Park? To make matters worse, our Mayor and Council have decided to advocate on behalf of the Provincial government rather than the residents of this community. What an abdication of its responsibility. To suggest that the mayor knew nothing of this before the announcement is incredulous and further brings into question just who the mayor is working for. They say that there will
Dear Premier I have been a local supporter of the Conservative Party in the region of North Grenville for some time. I have continued in that role until now, owing to the strong past efforts of Steve Clark in defending the interests of the people of this area. During my recent tenure as municipal Councillor, I was impressed with his work and the work of the Conservative Party in general. However, I am shocked and shaken at the surprise announcement of the imposition of a jail in the small town (about 3,000 residents) of Kemptville in the Municipality of North Grenville (total pop.17,000 including
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Editor David Shanahan david@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735
613.258.3493 Sept. 9, 2020
extent, though perhaps to a decreasing extent, this kind of descent into the mire can be addressed at election time, as long as the damage is not too severe. But then there’s the other, really concerning, aspect of society that has revealed itself more and more during this strange year. Conspiracy theorists have always been around, and the internet has only made their theorising easier to disseminate. Who killed Kennedy? Was the Moon landing in 1969 faked? Are we being brainwashed by what the government is putting in the water supply? Did life on Earth begin with aliens seeding the planet? There is no shortage of theories, and, apparently, no limit to the imagination of conspiracy theorists. Two aspects of this rise in theorising should concern us. The first is that the weird and lunatic fringe theories are being treated the same
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TIMES
Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca
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Letters con't town of Kemptville). I will say frankly that the consideration of such a large project with a variety of negative ramifications for such a small town may serve the interests of the provincial ministry responsible for this project. But it doesn't serve the interests of the men, women and children who live in Kemptville. A few local interests may enrich themselves from this project. Most of the population will reap the negative results in the years to come. Mr. Premier - we are told not to worry. Consultation will come. But you and I know that what is to come is NOT consultation. As I learned during the McGuinty/ Wynne years, what is called consultation after a government decision has been made is not consultation. It is window dressing made to look like consultation. Those of us who know the meanings of English words will not be fooled into thinking the coming process will be consultation. Consultation comes BEFORE a final decision is taken. NOT AFTER! Consultation feeds into decision making. If not, it isn't consultation. I am horrified to think that our local municipal
Council was not consulted on this matter. I am given to understand that the Mayor was only given notice two days prior to the announcement. Mr. Premier, were the conservative supporters of my area of North Grenville wrong to believe you meant it when, before the last election, you said you were "for the voice of the people"? If you meant that and still mean it, you will take this project back until meaningful consultation, not hidden under a Covid veil, takes place. I hope you will instruct your responsible ministry to act on your words of support for the voice of the people previous to election. Many of us have seen you as a salutary replacement for the authoritarian top-down Liberal Party of Ontario. Show us we were right. If you do not, I personally will be withdrawing my support for a government which says one thing and does another. Which acts first and consults later. This issue matters, sir. James Bertram Former Councillor and current resident North Grenville/Kemptville
contacted the land owners to discuss our land designation change. Our local Mayor, Doug Struthers, and the Merrickville Council were very supportive in having this concern addressed. I was contacted several times by Mayor Struthers and members of his council who provided updates of enquiries they made into this matter on our behalf. Randy Wilkinson and his land planning committee with Merrickville Council made many contacts and worked a lot of hours to resolve this concern. Michael Jiggins and his staff at Minister Steve Clark’s office in Brockville worked tirelessly to get answers to our concerns to resolve this matter. We did not speak directly to Minster Clark or Minster Yakabuski, but we know this matter was brought to their attention and they have been a great help. Not to forget our local news reporter Hilary Thomson who reported on this matter to the community at large. She was very much on the mark and understood the situation well when completing her reports. We are all very lucky to have the above caring people in our neighbourhood. My family and neighbors thank you all for your courageous help in resolving this matter. Thank You, John Miner
Dear Editor, The story on page 4 of the September 02 edition, written by Hilary Thomson, was outstanding. Congratulations. The work of these individuals is also commended. Thanks to them. Respectfully G .D Gerry Bungay Kemptville Dear Editor, This letter is to inform you of a recent email that was received on September 1, 2020 from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. It advises that all lands of my family ownership and numerous neighbours in the area has had the Provincially Significant Wetland designation removed from mapping of our properties. These properties are located in Grenville County, Merrickville-Wolford, north east quadrant. As you will recall, this was serious concern of the neighbourhood, as we do not have flooded and stand water in this area. The Province was asking the local land planning committee to provide updated mapping showing these lands as PSW. It was a total shock to us. At no time had anybody
Mega-Prison:
Breaking News from the parallel universe by Stephen Hammond from the future After consulting with the public concerning the new Kemptville prison, and given the increasing criminal activity across Ontario, Queen's Park has decided to expand the prison from a 120-inmate facility to one that can house 12,000. This will create 100 times more jobs than the amount proposed in August 2020. The residents of Kemptville must accept this as a done deal because, well, the province owns the land and can do what it wants with it. It was decreed that a nuclear power plant will be built alongside the prison to provide electricity to run the 24 hour guard tower lights and for the general requirements of the facility. To increase provincial revenue, the province signed a contract with various foreign governments and Ontario Hydro to create a secure nuclear material storage site next to the nuclear plant. As BIA members chanted "jobs, jobs, jobs" at today's press conference, all members of council and the mayor spoke Sept.9, 2020
with one voice and said, "we have to look at the silver lining of this important infrastructure project, and the uranium and plutonium lining too." The province and council reminded the public that, well, the province owns the land and can do what it wants with it. As a reward for cooperating with the provincial government, council members have been granted free prison passes for life, and will become honorary prison guards as well as prison riot swat team reservists, with special training in de-escalation and signalling the retreat. To address the security concerns of the community, a special federal waiver was granted to the municipality so that it could raise its own militia. No expense was too great to provide protection for the community, so a deal was made with Russia to purchase a tank division of 300 surplus soviet era heavy tanks. There were questions from the public concerning the effect of tank tracks on road and bridge infrastructure, but these concerns were resolved by the new per-
manent covid lockdown. Since the new lockdown did not permit anyone to leave their homes, roads would not be required by residents anyway. The economic benefits of the tank division include 1,500 new municipal employees to crew the tanks, and also the extra boost to local garages for all the repairs needed to keep the tanks operational. Advice was accepted from the Canadian Army as they had quite a bit of experience with obsolete military hardware. There is also the benefit of better tax collection enforcement, coming from a new bylaw titled, "We'll run over your house with a tank if you don't pay your property taxes." Property tax collection became an issue once the province decreed that the prison and nuclear plant costs, including the new $50 million prison sewage plant, would be the municipality's responsibility. Council reminded the public that, well, the municipality is a creature of the province and they can do what they want with it.
Dear Editor For the past three years, Conlon Farm would be buzzing with activity for the Lanark North Leeds Parkinson Canada SuperWalk the Saturday after Labour Day, this year falling on September 12. It likely comes as no surprise to anyone that there is no large gathering this year. There is a virtual National Opening Ceremony and people are walking in their neighbourhood with those in their bubble. And Lou McCann, a person with Parkinson’s, who always lives life with a No Matter What (the SuperWalk motto) approach to his Parkinson Disease, is organizing his fellow boxers to walk (relay style) from Conlon Farm in Perth to Centennial Park in Smiths Falls. Although, as with many other charities, donations are considerably down, the community has rallied again with the same spirit of generosity. So what is the concern? We are in a Pandemic. What is the problem? Across Canada, over 80 communities participate in SuperWalk, a day for people with Parkinson’s and their friends and family to cel9
The Voice of North Grenville ebrate funds raised and focus a spotlight on this chronic neurological disease. It is an inspirational day where people are reminded that they are not alone. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about a disease that 100,000 people have been diagnosed with in Canada, a number expected to double in the next ten years. That means that instead of 25 people being diagnosed every day, there will be 50. It is, in fact, the fastest growing neurological disease in the world, even surpassing Alzheimer’s. Finally, many people have Parkinson’s but don’t know, or perhaps want to acknowledge, both factors that could contribute to a worse prognosis. COVID 19 has impacted every part of our lives. You may not be in a position to help. If you are, please donate what you can. It will make a difference. Visit donate. parkinson.ca/lanark. Pat Evans Portland Dear Editor, I recall being extremely happy some years ago when my Council was able to reassure TSC corporation to go ahead with their big box store. Over the years were added huge subdivisions which had a major impact on Colonnade’s decision to proceed with their development. I saw both of these progressive steps forward as a way to enticing eventual corporate HQs and the attendant good jobs out here. It worked decades ago for Kanata, why not here. Hanging over our heads was always the concern that additional development would exhaust our sewage treatment capacity. Through efficient upgrades and modification by public works staff (take a bow Karen), relining old pipes etc., considerable capacity was recovered leaving room for further development. Along came COVID-19 and with it major changes to how and where companies would employ their workforces - my dream of corporate or government moving here moves to the back burner for a while. In terms of the growth the Ontario Government’s prison will bring to North Grenville, I share the following comments, thoughts and concerns should the project move forward. A lot can happen in two or three years, bear in mind, especially in relation to county road 43. Both the province and feds have made many such types of promises in the past. What we have now financially won’t cover a third
of construction costs. Development charges are levied against ANY NEW DEVELOPMENT to help with municipal increased costs such development creates. Will the provincial government be assessed such charges using the same formula as developers have paid? If such is assessed, will the province pay? Adding 300+ bodies to the capacity of the sewage treatment plant will probably exhaust our carefully saved future capacity. Will the province be assessed a capacity replacement charge sufficient to upgrade the facility should such be necessary? Developers are assessed these charges now. Will sewage and water pipes that the proposed facility will connect to be capable of handling the increased daily load? If not, will we demand that the province install adequate new piping to cover requirements? To ensure our system is not overloaded, can we insist on a cap being placed on the facility as and when it opens? Presume that all signage will be subject to municipal approval. Will the province provide the municipality with a “grant in lieu” of municipal taxes? Should this facility mandate any special or additional equipment for either KDH or the Kemptville fire department the province will cover such costs on an ongoing basis. Insist that the number of bilingual positions be justified and kept at the absolute minimum to ensure local people can compete for positions. Before contracting goods and services outside North Grenville, the province must justify that the local market can’t supply. Province must ensure that a mechanism is put in place to return inmates released to Ottawa. We do not want released inmates wandering around Kemptville. Lke KDH and the previous college, the majority of daily necessities will be sourced by contract outside of Kemptville. Will the province offer incentives for such companies to move to Kemptville to create further employment and reduce transport costs? That’s my ramblings for the moment. NIMBY? Yep, but I would sooner grow by business development. Bill Gooch Mayor 2004-2010
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Ontario expanding Seniors Dental Care Program The Ontario government is providing $25 million to expand access to the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. The funding will be used to support 78 infrastructure projects across the province, including building new dental clinics and renovating existing facilities. The province is also adding eight new mobile dental clinics that will bring services directly to clients, making it easier for vulnerable seniors to access the dental care they need. The announcement was made last week by Premier Doug Ford, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, and Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. "Our government made a promise to Ontario's low-income seniors that we would provide them with free, routine dental care ― and we are keeping that promise," said Premier Ford. "As part of the next phase of the program, we are enhancing our commitment, which includes more mobile dental clinics. We are bringing critical dental care right to the doorstep of our seniors and allowing for better treatment in underserviced areas."
The funding will be used to build new dental clinics and make upgrades and expansions to existing clinics at public health units, participating community health centres and Aboriginal Health Access Centres. These projects are expected to be completed by March 31, 2021. The distribution is as follows: 50 projects will receive $11.6 million to support existing clinics with upgrades and expansions; 28 projects will receive $13.3 million to build new clinics that will help provide dental services in underserviced areas, which includes eight new mobile dental clinics. "Our government is investing in dental infrastructure projects across Ontario to ensure low-income seniors will have better and faster access to the services they need, no matter where they live," said Minister Elliott. "The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program is a key part of our plan to end hallway health care by providing seniors with access to quality dental care and keeping them out of hospitals." The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program will reduce unnecessary trips to the hospital and help to eliminate hallway
health care, prevent chronic disease and improve the quality of life and overall well-being for eligible seniors. "Our government is committed to making sure our seniors stay safe and healthy," said Minister Cho. "Expanding the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program and offering mobile services will make it easier for those who have difficulty getting out of their home, or for those living in rural or remote parts of the province, to access the care they need." Eligible seniors can apply to the program online, or by picking up an application form at a local public health unit. The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program provides free routine dental care for eligible low-income seniors across the province who do not have dental benefits. Ontarians aged 65 and over with an income of $19,300 or less, or couples with a combined annual income of $32,300 or less, will qualify for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. Once fully implemented, the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program will serve approximately 100,000 low-income seniors annually. Two-thirds of low-income seniors do not have access to dental insurance.
Canada Revenue warns against senior homeowners’ property tax grant scheme The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is warning Canadians about getting involved in schemes where promoters, usually tax representatives or tax preparers, are claiming they can get a tax refund for taxpayers relating to the Ontario senior homeowners’ property tax grant (OSHPTG). What is the OSHPTG? The OSHPTG is a refundable tax credit that gives tax relief to eligible low- and moderate-income seniors who own and occupy their principal residence. The seniors, or someone on their behalf, must have paid Ontario property tax on their principal residence. The grant is an annual payment that seniors must apply for each year when they file their income tax and benefit return. Most provinces and territories offer tax credits and or tax relief to seniors. You can find out which credits, benefits or tax relief elements you qualify for by visiting the government of Canada’s provincial and territorial tax credits page, your provincial government’s website or by contacting your province or territory directly. What are tax schemes? Tax schemes are plans and arrangements that try to deceive taxpayers by promising to reduce the tax they owe, for example through large deductions or promises of tax-free income.
Schemes can also include other creative ways to convince people they could pay less tax. Be careful. Here’s how the OSHPTG scheme works: The scheme is targeted to seniors residing in a multigenerational family household that is owned by their children or grandchildren. The promoter, who is usually a tax preparer or tax representative, will tell the senior that the promoter can increase the senior’s tax refund. The promoter will suggest that the homeowner transfer an interest in the residence to the senior resident, sometimes without their knowledge. The promoter will then prepare the income tax and benefit returns for the entire household as one financial unit, inappropriately claiming the OSHPTG on the senior’s return by misrepresenting the seniors’ homeownership. Your actions may have serious consequences: The OSHPTG is not for individuals who do not own their principal residence. If someone claims it is, they are misleading you. Read more about the OSHPTG and have your questions answered. Those who choose to participate in these schemes and those who promote them face serious consequences, including penalties, court fines, and even jail time. People who avoid or evade taxes take resources away from
social programs that all Canadians benefit from. All taxpayers, including those who pay tax experts to prepare their income tax and benefit return, are legally responsible for the accuracy of their return. Remember: It’s your responsibility to keep proof to support any claim you make. What can you do? The CRA encourages all Canadians to seek an independent second opinion from a reputable tax professional on important tax matters. If you suspect someone of promoting or participating in an abusive tax scheme, you can report it online at canada.ca/ taxes-leads or by contacting the Informant Leads Centre line at 1-866-809-6841. Steps will be taken to protect your identity. Also, you may provide information anonymously. In addition, the CRA continues to encourage taxpayers to come forward and correct their tax affairs through the Voluntary Disclosures Program: canada.ca/taxes-voluntarydisclosures. For more information on tax schemes, please go to canada.ca/tax-schemes.
What ‘Back to School’ means for grandparents from CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) While a lot of focus is rightly being placed on the safety of students, less discussed are the very real implications on the rest of the family “bubble” (core group of people who maintain physical distance from others and can safely be close to each other during the pandemic). Grandparents, who often serve as the linch pin of the family’s day to day operations, will be facing tough decisions on how to remain safely connected to their grandchildren as a potential second wave of COVID-19 hits this fall. “Many of our Members tell us they feel like we’re back in the early days of the pandemic, when so much anxiety was caused by the unknown,” says Bill VanGorder, CARP’s Interim Chief Policy Sept. 9, 2020
Officer. “Social isolation is wreaking havoc on seniors across the country. We’re seeing increased rates of depression, cognitive decline and injury in vulnerable elders who have been cut off from their families due to physical distancing measures. Staying connected to grandchildren is key in keeping older people active, engaged and mentally healthy.” Given that grandparents often care for children while their parents go to work, maintaining physical distance will be next to impossible for many families. This poses a serious safety concern, as school-aged children are up to four times more likely to spread the virus to others— a risk older people need to avoid at all costs. With concerns mounting that schools will be a hotbed for outbreaks, many parents
are opting to keep their kids at home or arrange to work from home themselves in order to protect their older loved ones from exposure to COVID-19. On top of this, approximately 400,000 homes in Canada are intergenerational, meaning grandparents are intimately ingrained in the household alongside their younger family members. “Parents are being reminded how integral grandparents are to keeping their lives running smoothly,” notes VanGorder. “Many parents are going so far as to split up their family bubble into two. One parent will bubble with the grandparents and the other with the kids. Urgency breeds creativity, and they want to make sure their family elders are as safe as possible going into the school year.” Luckily for grandparents
looking to stay connected to their grandkids, even when maintaining physical distance, there are many options. While nothing can replace a real life hug, we’ve put together a list of ways to be a great “physically-distanced grandparent”, submitted by our Members. www.carp. ca/2020/04/30/good-physically-distanced-grandparent. Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.
Rachel S. Jansen, B.Comm., J.D.
215 Van Buren Street, Kemptville 613.258.7462 jansenlaw.com
Real Estate - Wills & Estates - Family Law - Corporate
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Senior Times by Susan Smith, Executive Director, Kemptville & District Home Support “Autumn, the season that teaches us that change can be beautiful.” ~ unknown Fall shows us change in all of its colorful glory! Here at Seniors’ Community Services we are continuing to change and adapt. As many of you are aware, we paused our social programs in order to protect everyone from COVID-19. To fill the gap in connecting with each other, we have added
virtual and telephone programs. Seniors’ Centre Without Wall, which is over the telephone, has been well received. Each session is approximately 30 minutes and there is a specific topic or theme, such as trivia or name that tune. There is always room for more participants if you are interested in trying any of the programs; and we can also open up another time if the sessions grow too large. Virtual games, such as euchre, will be available to be enjoyed
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Let’s Connect… this Fall; let us know which ones you may be interested in, please. It will be fun to learn this new technology together. Meals on Wheels, Transportation to medical appointments and Foot Care Clinics are continuing with the necessary precautions in place. The telephone checks by our volunteers are continuing, with the calls being made daily or a few times during the week – depending on when people would prefer to be called. And, to great
reviews, Chris Morgan is continuing to call clients and volunteers on their respective birthdays by playing his guitar and singing happy birthday! People love to get Chris’ birthday call so much they have called us to say how much it was appreciated, and it is preferred over receiving a card signed by the staff. This is definitely a beautiful change! We have volunteer committees continuing to work behind the scenes to look at new ways of
providing activities, and looking at the possibility of new partnerships and services. The Board of Directors has worked tirelessly over the past several months and deserves so many accolades for continuing to move forward with the mandate of this organization. If you would like more information, or are interested in trying out any of these activities, please give us a call at 613-258-3203, we would love to chat with you. Remember to
check out our website and Facebook for any news and changes, as exciting things are happening! Wishing everyone the joy of embracing change this Fall. And to keep in mind the words of Emily Brontë: “Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.” Please keep safe, and remember to be kind to each other. Until next time, Susan
Falls, fractures, and how strength training can prevent them by Richard Chartrand Falling is an event that depends on the circumstances. Kids fall multiple times each week. Considering how low to the ground they are and how their bones are constantly becoming stronger, falling is usually a small concern, at most. On the other hand, falls are almost always a cause for concern with older adults, who often need medical attention after a fall, and fractures are common. One in every three adults at least 65 years old fall every year. About 20-30% of these falls lead to injuries of some kind. When considering these statistics, it’s no surprise that falls are the leading cause of fatal and not-fat injuries in older adults. Strength training can help in a number of ways. Strength training can prevent falls from occurring. Older adults who strength train, even for as little as two months, are less likely to fall. This is likely due to the importance of strength itself, which is a large underlying factor in balance. A study in 2014 showed an increase in balance and a lower rate of falling during 12 weeks of strength training when compared to the Sept.9, 2020
months prior to training. A second study published in 2011 showed that older adults who strength trained experienced an average of one fewer fall during the eight-week training period when compared to a control group that only performed stretching. The participants in both groups experienced another benefit which may explain why balance and fall rates improved: they gained strength in muscles that control their knee and hip joints. Strength dictates the ease of the body to move, especially when overcoming obstacles such as walking on unstable surfaces or over objects. Strength training can slow bone density loss, and even reverse the process and increase bone density in many people. Part of the reason why falls are so dangerous for older adults but less so for middle-aged adults or young children is due to bone density. Osteoporosis, a disease of low bone mass, is most common in older adults, especially postmenopausal women. Men and women generally start losing bone density in their mid-thirties but this trend doesn’t become significant until
around 55 years old. As bone mass decreases, bones become hollower and break easier, even with a soft fall from a standing position. The researchers in the 2011 study said, “… interventions to improve strength and functional status are useful for fall prevention in older adults.” Strength training increases bone strength, balance, and ultimately, decreases the likelihood of falling for older adults.
613-258-7800 www.kvrl.ca
Kemptville Retirement Living has been expertly designed to offer a full range of Lifestyle Options:
•Independent Lifestyle •Full Service Lifestyle •Care & Service-By-Design
613-445-5200
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Local rural hospitals collaborate to study Transitions in Care
by Jane Adams ‘Transitions in care’ happen as patients move from one setting to the next. Transitions are times when patients can fall through the cracks and experience setbacks that can result in unnecessary re-admissions and complications. A new multi-site evaluation and quality improvement study is hoping to change that. An alliance of three rural hospitals in Ontario - Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH), Kemptville District Hos-
pital (KDH), and Arnprior Regional Health (ARH) - have received a $196,000 grant to evaluate and improve transitions in care for elderly patients leaving the hospital to go home. The TiC Evaluations Rural Network Study, which will be conducted over the next two years, will gather valuable, real-world information and find solutions for the hospitals and their patients. “WDMH is proud to lead this research study,” notes Cholly Boland, CEO, WDMH. “As one of WD-
MH’s strategic priorities, research allows us to always ask why and how we can do better. We want to apply the knowledge we gain for better patient care.” “The study will have multiple phases using different approaches such as patient, caregiver and care provider surveys, outcome and operational evaluations, and a knowledge translation component,” explains WDMH’s Chief Research Officer Mohamed Gazarin, who is leading the study along with WDMH’s Chief of Staff Dr. Brian Devin. “The study will involve patient partners, physicians, researchers, front-line staff, and key managers.” “Research shows that 1 out of 7 patients may be readmitted within 30 days of being discharged from the hospital,” explains Cathy Burke, VP of Nursing and Clinical Services
at KDH. “This study will support better outcomes for patients.” “We are so pleased to be collaborating with WDMH and Arnprior Regional Health,” adds KDH CEO Frank Vassallo, “because it has the potential to help make care more seamless for patients and families in the communities served by all three of our hospitals.” “We are grateful to the PSI Foundation for their support of this research and look forward to working with other rural hospitals in our region on this important study that will provide insights about how we can enhance the patient experience and outcomes,” adds Dr. Christine Schriver, Chief of Staff, Arnprior Regional Health. “This study will give our regional group evidencebased findings about the unique healthcare needs of rural communities versus urban communities, which will help inform how we best deliver care,” sums up Eric Hanna, President and CEO, Arnprior Regional Health.
ree Nursery: Outlet Store (Quarter page vertical - North Grenville Times 0
This picture taken today, September 5, 2020, from Stonewalk Drive. By Leanne Verbree
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TIMES Gord Logan
Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
Puzzled over Real Estate.....Give us a call ** Broker
Outlet Store th Opens September 8 Ferguson Tree Nursery grows a variety of conifers, hardwoods, shrubs and perennials. • Native or naturalized non-invasive species • Environmentally suitable • • • •
PLAY TO WIN. PLAY TO GIVE.
1to3 gallon trees and shrubs Starter & 1 gallon perennials Books Planting Tools & Resources
CATCH THE ACE NOW IN KEMPTVILLE! In celebration of Kemptville District Hospital's 60th Anniversary we are thrilled to bring Catch the Ace to our community. A win for you is a win for Kemptville District Hospital with 50% of the proceeds going towards replacing aging equipment in our hospital’s emergency room, diagnostic imaging department, operating rooms as well as to purchase specialty equipment for our renowned joint, knee, and hip replacement program.
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm
Keeping Our Community Green and Growing!
Weekly prize draws every Thursday. The more tickets you purchase, the better your chances!
275 County Road 44, Kemptville, ON
613-258-0110
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CROSSWORD
FOOD CORNER by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville It’s a good time to take advantage of a) the end of summer and the beginning of fall weather and b) the availability of good size pork legs at a decent price at your local grocery store. We recently had a neighbourhood End of Summer party and served BBQ in the form of Cajun Pork Leg. The meat, when cooked slowly, is very tender and tasty, with just enough bite to let you know it’s Cajun. It goes well with some sliced new potatoes (skin on) laid out on a cookie sheet, sprayed with oil, salted and peppered and popped in the top rack of the BBQ or in the oven for a half hour or so. A robust red wine is appropriate to accompany this dish while some folks might prefer an equally robust beer.
Cajun Pork Leg BBQ
Ingredients for dry rub: ¾ cup dark brown sugar ¾ cup white sugar ½ cup paprika ¼ cup garlic powder Red wine (some to sip while cooking, some to mix a baste for the pork) 2 tablespoons each of: Ground black pepper Cayenne pepper Ginger powder Onion powder Rosemary Celery seed Mustard powder Cumin
ACROSS 1. Indian dress 5. Does something 9. Strip of wood 13. Portent 14. Splines 16. Brother of Jacob 17. Clods 18. Ill-gotten gains 19. Aquatic respiratory organ 20. A monotonous hum 22. Wooden seaside walkway 24. Astringent 26. Look at with fixed eyes 27. Ten Commandments 30. Pointed 33. Mezzanine floor 35. Allow 37. Fuss 38. Infections of the eye 41. Public transit vehicle
Preparation: Let the pork leg come to room temperature from the refrigerator Diamond score the leg with a sharp knife Rub the entire surface Cook at low temperature on the BBQ or in the oven (325 degrees F) Wait for a bark to form on the surface of the meat before basting with a mixture of the leftover spices from the rub and some red wine All the best and don’t hesitate to be in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
SUDOKU
Sept.9, 2020
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42. Disorderly revelry 45. And so on 48. Generator 51. Meal provider 52. Honor fights 54. Farm building 55. Adventures 59. Exchange 62. Era 63. Queues 65. Cards with 1 symbol 66. Immediately 67. Affirmatives 68. Applaud 69. Harvard rival 70. Arid
71. Evasive DOWN 1. Lampblack 2. Nanny 3. Recalcitrant 4. Private 5. American Sign Language 6. Association 7. Anagram of "Coast" 8. Layers 9. Hosiery 10. Largest continent 11. Gangly 12. A very large person 15. A pinnacle of ice 21. Stubborn beast 23. Medication 25. Nonvascular plant 27. Lifeless 28. Ceased 29. Snagged 31. Temple 32. Habituate 34. Alkaline liquid 36. Russian emperor 39. And so forth 40. Anagram of "Cabs" 43. A moderately slow tempo 44. Wail 46. French for "State" 47. Patio 49. Coarse-grained 50. Music from the 50s and 60s 53. Feel 55. Not difficult 56. Bristle 57. Anthracite 58. Clairvoyant 60. Negotiate 61. Catch a glimpse of 64. South southeast
EASY
MEDIUM
HARD
Answer to last weeks crossword
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FOR SALE Honey for sale Local new crop raw wildflower honey, 500g $8, 1kg $14, 3kg $40, 5kg $60. Burritts Rapids - EMT and distanced porch pickup available 613-269-4233 LARGE COLLECTION EXCELLENT ROYAL DOULTON LADIES AND LLADRO 613-258-5294 11 CUBIC FOOT COMPOSTER WITH BOTTOM DRAWER. $30. 613-806-4495
HEAVY DUTY TREADMILL $125. ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA 1987 $375. KEMPTVILLE 613 258 2992 OLD BEER BTLS AND POP CANS 1970-1998 100’S ALL DIFFERENT BEST OFFER, BRAND NEW ENCYCLOPAEDIA SET NEVER TOUCHED FULL SET$400, FULL BOXES OF ALL ASSORTED SPORTS CARDS 1980-1997 NHL, NBA, NFL, ETC BEST OFFER ANDY 215-0665
MIXED SEASONED FIREWOOD FOR SALE, $110 PER CORD DELIVERED, MINIMUM 3 CORD ORDER FOR DELIVERY, JON 613-227-3650
YARD SALE EVERYTHING GOES YARD SALE! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 10 AM TO 2 PM RAIN DATE SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 20 OUTSIDE AT THE SPENCERVILLE MILL, 11 WATER ST., SPENCERVILLE
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE … KIDS TOYS, BOOKS, WOMEN'S DESIGNER CLOTHES & RETRO COATS, SCARVES & THROWS, LINENS, POTTERY, ANTIQUE QUILTS, BARN BOARD CREATIONS, ADVANCE XMAS ITEMS, ART + $2 MISCELLANEOUS GRAB BAGS SELLERS WILL WEAR A MASK OST
WANTED WAN TED to BU Y....C l e a n Fill...$20 / load...Kemptville Area....613.314.9327
Looking to Rent Farmland for Organic Cash Crops Specifi-
FOR RENT www.leedsgrenville.com
PUBLIC NOTICE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY September 19, 2020
Residents of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Towns of Prescott and Gananoque can drop off Household Hazardous Waste free of charge. NEW LOCATIONS & TIMES! S. Leeds Patrol Garage (North of Lansdowne) 2714 Outlet Rd. 8:30 am – 2:00 pm
Spencerville Fair Grounds Goodin Road Entrance * (North end of Fairgrounds) 8:30 am – 2:00 pm
COVID-19 REGULATIONS IN EFFECT
PLEASE DO NOT GET OUT OF YOUR VEHICLE LONG LINE-UPS ANTICIPATED SO PLEASE REMAIN PATIENT
USED GAS/OIL CONTAINERS WILL NOT BE RETURNED Materials accepted include petroleum products, oil filters, antifreeze, paints and solvents, batteries, propane tanks, fertilizers, pesticides, light bulbs, fluorescent light bulbs/tubes and pharmaceuticals, all of which are “household” in nature. Private/commercial business waste will not be accepted. Materials not accepted include commercial and/or industrial waste, electronics, appliances, flares, explosives, PCB’s & radioactive materials. Waste from other municipalities including the City of Brockville will not be accepted. Please come early to avoid line-ups & long waiting times. Questions? Call 342-3840 ext. 2413.
Brand new build in heart of Kemptville, 4 units available. Each unit boasts 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms with laundry, 1050 square feet. All brand new appliances. Plenty of closet space and storage. Spacious and tastefully finished featuring lots of natural light. Short walk to amenities including grocery store, mall and downtown shops. $1850 plus utilities. Reference required. No smoking, no pets. Please email simply.vogue@hotmail. com or call 613-978-4700 for more info or to view units.
rile e e
net ca
cally looking for land that's fallow/overgrown or old hay/pasture. Also interested in conventional cropland to transition to organic. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204 Looking for help to sell sports memorabilia items on the internet” will pay on commission basis, call Andy 613-215-0665
CANADIAN FIREARMS AND HUNTER EDUCATION COURSES
(One Stop) at Burritt’s Manotick Curling Centre is Rapids on Sept 18-20 and welcoming new members. October 16 to 18. Please Register now on our website: contact Kerry Coleman www.manotickcurling.com at 613-258-7515 or kerrycoleman@xplornet.com
HIRING KEMPTVILLE MEDICAL PHARMACY is seeking a pharmacy assistant to help our dispensary provide friendly professional customer service. The assistant will prepare medicines, bill prescriptions through Kroll software and assist in record keeping in an accurate and efficient manner. Hours weekdays and some Saturdays (all Sundays and Stat Holidays off). Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salary: $16:00-$18: 00 per hour based on experiance Submit your resumee to: germin209@yahoo.com
JOB FAIR
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Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
Wednesday September 16, 2020 12 to 4pm
Hiring PSW’s, Housekeeping, RPN’s , RN’s It will be held on site outside the back of building
ES
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100 Elvira Street, Kemptville
ERIC’S CARPENTRY
Residential construction, additions , reno’s, kitchens, baths, basements and more. 613-913-9598
www.ericscarpentryservice.com Sept. 9, 2020
HEAPHY’S CLEANING SERVICES Chemical free cleaning, plant based products. Call 613 206 7279 for a free quote 14
RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repair, ceramic tile. Call George at 613 462 7637
PRO
Com Ove
Qual
Ku
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Myth understandings: an irregular column by David Shanahan The Jesus myth There is a claim which surfaces every now and then, which asserts that Jesus of Nazareth never actually existed; that he was a myth made up by people to legitimise their activities. It should ne noted that historians do not make this claim, as the evidence for the historical reality of Jesus is convincing. But, as we are discussing myth understandings, it is best to get this one out of the way early on. There are a number of sources outside the New Testament documents which refer to the historical Jesus, both in Jewish and Roman writings. After the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and the dispersal of the Jewish people, the vast collection of oral law and commentary on the Old Testament was finally encoded in written documents, the Talmud. In these records, there are references to Jesus, the disciples, and others, though not at all in a positive way. Jesus is accused of being a heretic teacher who misled the people, performed wonders, and said he had come to destroy the Law. He was executed as a heretic on the eve of Passover. Five of his disciples are named, and the Talmud says that they healed the sick. The main Jewish source for the historical existence of Jesus comes in the histories written by Josephus Flavius around 90A.D. In his “Antiquities of the Jews”, a 20-volume history of his people,
Josephus refers to many of the people mentioned in the New Testament, including the Herod family, Pontius Pilate, the priests Annas, Caiaphas, Ananias, John the Baptist, and others. Specifically relating to Jesus, Josephus relates the murder of James, the brother of Jesus, at the hands of Ananias: “..he assembled a council of judges, and brought before it the brother of Jesus, the so-called Christ, whose name was James”. In the most direct reference to Jesus, about which there has been disagreement over the authenticity of some phrases, he provides clear evidence for the historicity of Jesus. Leaving out the disputed words, he says: “And there arose about this time Jesus, a wise man, [ ] for he was doer of marvellous deeds, a teacher of men who receive the truth with pleasure. He led away many Jews, and also many of the Greeks. [ ] And when Pilate had condemned him to the cross on his impeachment by the chief men among us, those who had loved him at first did not cease; [ ] and even now the tribe of Christians, so named after him, has not yet died out.” [Antiquities, xviii. 3.3] This, note, was recorded by a Jewish historian, not a Christian, and places Jesus in the same time period and context that we find in the New Testament. Other secular sources also contain references to Jesus. A letter from a Syrian
named Mara Bar-Serapion to his son, some time after 73 A.D., refers to three models of righteous living his son should emulate. One was Socrates, another Pythagoras, and the third was “the wise King” of the Jews. All three had died unfairly at the hands of their people, and no good came from their deaths. “What advantage did the Jews gain from executing their wise King? It was just after that that their kingdom was abolished...the Jews, ruined and driven from their land, live in complete dispersion. ...Nor did the wise King die for good; He lived on in the teaching which he has given.” There are a number of references to Jesus and Christians in Roman historical writings. Around 110A.D., Tacitus, in a history of the Emperor Nero, wrote about the famous fire that destroyed Rome, which Nero tried to blame on the Christians. Tacitus called them: “a class of men, loathed for their vices, whom the crowd styled Christians. Christus, from whom they got their name, had been executed by sentence of the procurator Pontius Pilate when Tiberius was Emperor; and the pernicious supersti-
tion was checked for a short time, only to break out afresh, not only in Judea, the home of the plague, but in Rome itself...” Another Roman reference to Christians comes from Pliny the Younger, procurator of what is now modern Turkey, and a philosopher to boot. He write to Emperor Trajan seeking advice on how to deal with Christians, as they did not worship the Emperor, as was required by law. The interesting section of his letter describes the practices of the sect: “..they were in the habit of meeting on a certain fixed day before it was light, when they sang an anthem to Christ as God, and bound themselves by a solemn oath not to commit any wicked deed, but to abstain from all fraud, theft and adultery, never to break their word, or deny a trust when called upon to honour it; after which it was their custom to separate, and then meet again to partake of food, but food of an ordinary and innocent kind.” [Epistles, x, 6] In short, the historical record, outside of the New Testament, contains enough references to Jesus and his life and death by non-Christian
sources to refute any idea that he was not an actual figure in time and space. He was no myth. Of course, the most complete source of information are the 26 documents which comprise the New Testament. Once again, these are generally accepted by historians of the ancient world as reliable sources of material, and it is usually the opponents of Christianity who reject them. They are now worth some study to see what myth understandings may apply to them.
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Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
Warren, Barbara
On Thursday, September 3rd, 2020, Barbara Elizabeth Warren (nee McNeill) "Barb / Aunt Barb / Babs / Nana" to the lucky that knew her - passed away peacefully in the company of her family. She died with the strength, grace and beauty that she embodied in life. She is survived by her husband, Edward (Ted/Teddy/Uncle Ted/Papa), her children, John, Jeremy (Dee), Shauna (Brian), and Katy (Earl), and grandchildren Weston and Auston Graham, Sarah and Lauren McKibbin, and Kalen and Reid Warren, her sister Carol (John) Gibbon of Co. Wexford, Ireland, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her son in law, Chris (Katy), and parents, Douglas “Dodd” and Elizabeth “Bess” (nee Bell) McNeill of Tullow, Co. Carlow, Wexford, Ireland. Barbara and Ted met in Ireland and immigrated to Toronto, then put down strong roots in the Kemptville area. They were married at Christ Church in Burritts Rapids, Ontario in 1960, and together opened the Edward J W Warren Law Office. Barb was an active member of her community, volunteering and supporting many organizations such as the Kemptville Public Library, the Recreation Committee, the Kemptville District Hospital, and the Altar Guild at St. James. Throughout her life she developed many deep and enduring friendships and will be sadly missed by many. Barbara was devoted to her husband, children and friends. She spent the last few weeks surrounded by her children, laughing and making memories that will last a lifetime. We may never look upon a thunderstorm the same way again. In lieu of flowers, please support the Beth Donovan Hospice, Dundas Manor, Kemptville District Hospital, the Canadian Cancer society, or a community organization of your choice.
to order online go to
www.tbcconsign.com
Call 613.258.0166
Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435 Sept.9, 2020
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The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford
Merrickville featured in Small Halls Stories by Hilary Thomson Merrickville is featured in a new project showcasing fun and interesting stories from small towns across Eastern Ontario. The Small Halls Stories project was spearheaded by the Festival of Small Halls, which has been bringing concerts to small communities in Eastern Ontario for the past 6 years. Marketing Manager, Rosanne Lake, says that they have learned a lot about each of the small towns that host
the festival and realized that each of them has unique stories to tell. “Small Halls Stories is something we’ve been thinking about – and wishing to do – for quite some time,” she says. Smalls Halls reached out to the various communities that usually host the festival and asked them to help facilitate the recording of authentic tales of past events, historical or recent, a defining moment, occasion, or notable person. “Our wonderful hosts have such a strong understanding by now of what we try to
accomplish at the community level, that some of them jumped right in,” Rosanne says. “About a dozen of the Small Halls communities submitted story ideas and connected us with the perfect storytellers.” In Merrickville, they worked with Nick Previsich of the Merrickville Organization for Culture and the Arts, who has been their contact for their Fall and holiday shows in Merrickville. Nick wrote the story of Harry McLean, Merrickville’s eccentric millionaire, and it was read by
Omar Simonyi from Theatre Night in Merrickville. The 8-minute story is now up on the Festival of Small Halls website, along with 10 other Small Halls Stories. “The stories are absolutely fascinating!” Rosanne says. “We’re talking discovering whale bones deep beneath the earth in Pakenham, a larger-than-life character in Merrickville, Gaelic ghosts in Dunvegan, secret stones in Elgin, a canoe fit for a queen in Seeley’s Bay, and much more.” The Small Halls Stories
portant because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With so many people isolating and staying home, it seemed like a good way to highlight some of the amazing small towns around Eastern Ontario and connect further with Festival of Small Halls communities. “Small places can harbour big stories!” Rosanne adds. To listen to all of the Small Halls Stories visit the Festival of Small Halls website: www.thefestivalofsmallhalls.com. They can also be found on Spotify under Small Halls Stories.
Montague moves ahead with recreation feasibility study
Support Small Support Local
by Hilary Thomson Two Montague residents presented a petition with 248 signatures to Montague council at the meeting of September 1, asking them to reconsider their decision to engage in a recreation feasibility study for the Municipality. Over the past few weeks, Bev Toivonen and Norma Ford have been collecting signatures, both online and in person, to get council to reverse their decision to spend $29,100 on the study. They believe that the study should not be a priority for the Municipality and that this money would be better spent on the upkeep of their current municipal facilities. Bev reminded Council during the meeting that during the Municipality’s strategic planning exercise two years ago, residents indicated that they did not have any interest in more recreational facilities. “I respectfully wonder why this council is even suggesting looking into a recreation feasibility study when it is clear from your own survey that recreation is not a priority for the tax-payers of Montague Township,” she said. Bev outlined their other reasons for asking council to reverse their decision, which included the fact that the Montague Recreation Committee was not consulted or
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launched on August 27, and Rosanne says the response has been great so far. They had hundreds of listens on Spotify in the first few days, and people have been sharing the individual stories in their online communities. There seems to be something about listening to a podcast without a visual component that makes the experience more personal and leaves room for the imagination to wander. “Our audience seems to be responding to that connection.” Rosanne believes the project was particularly im-
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asked for input about the study, that the Municipality only has 2,000 taxpayers and an already high tax rate, that the motion should not have been passed during a pandemic when many people are not aware of council decisions, and that they feel the Township should be spending more on essential items not “frivolous wants and extras.” “On behalf of these 248 signatures, we respectfully ask that council reverse the decision made at the last committee of the whole meeting and vote nay for the expenditure of obtaining a recreation feasibility study,” Norma said at the end of their presentation. Bev and Norma’s presentation sparked some conversation around the council table. Councillor Karen Jennings was against the feasibility study, for many of the same reasons outlined in the delegation. She believes that is it not the right time to be spending this money on the study when they already have a lot on their plate when it comes to the upkeep of their current municipal buildings. For example, she said the money might be better spent on putting a new septic system in at Rosedale Hall. “I just think it’s not the right time to be spending the money,” she said. Councillor Jeff Carroll believes that it is unfortunate that there is so much negativ-
ity around an initiative that will ultimately benefit the community. He says that many residents are looking for what amenities the Municipality can provide for their tax dollars. “It’s a positive thing for us to do for our residents,” he said. “We’re trying to find ways to make this an even better place to live.” Deputy Reeve Klaas Van Der Meer said that the study might also help them attract builders to the Municipality, as it will give them an idea of what kinds of recreational amenities might be available in community in the future. He also mentioned that he was concerned that there had been no verification to ensure that all the people who signed the petition were residents of Montague Township. Reeve Bill Dobson said that he is in favour of the study because he is looking at the big picture of recreation in the Municipality, not just the option of building a new recreation facility. He says he hopes the study will look at what they can do with the many acres of empty land that the Municipality owns, consult with community stakeholders like school boards and local recreational organizations, consider a broad range of recreational opportunities for seniors, and look at how they can capitalize on Rosecont'd on page 17
The North Grenville Times
Local hooking group celebrates 40 years
92-year-old Marjorie Holmes, a lifetime member of RVBB. by Hilary Thomson The Rideau Valley Boots and Baskets (RVBB) rug hooking group met at the Burritts Rapids locks on Thursday last week to celebrate 40 years of hooking and friendships. The RVBB was established in 1980 at the home of Marg Carson, near Burritts Rapids. The name Boots and
Baskets was chosen based on the button-hooked Victorian boots that were popular up until the 1950s, and the apple baskets used for carrying rug hooking supplies. As the group grew, Rideau Valley was added to the name and gatherings moved from people’s homes to Burritts Rapids Community Hall, where they started meeting on the first and third Thursday of
Perth, was at the meeting last Thursday working on her 25th hooking project. “I really enjoy it,” she says, “It keeps me busy and I love doing it.” Another RVBB member, Andrea, said that taking up hooking has helped her immensely in her recovery from anxiety and PTSD. She says that in many ways the connections, friendships and passion she has for rug hooking helped save her life. “It helped give me a purpose and stay grounded,” she says. “It’s the ability to create with other women, and be inspired by other women and men,” she said. “Everybody is so open to sharing and learning.”
each month from September to June. As part of the Ontario Hooking Craft Guild (OHCG), members have hosted Area 1 picnics and also put together rug hooking demonstrations at the annual opening of the Merrickville Blockhouse Museum, as well as other local fairs. They have created group rugs, including a Millenium rug and a rug celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Rideau Canal. Many of their members have also displayed their rugs at the OHCG annual conferences, and all their members contribute to annual RVBB auctions, with proceeds going to support local flood victims, CHEO, Camp IAWAH, the Burritts Rapids Community Hall, and the Hooked Rug Museum of North America located in Hubbards, Nova Scotia. The group now has over 40 members from all over Eastern Ontario including Perth, Merrickville, Portland, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and Ottawa. Members range in ages from 30 to 92, which creates a great opportunity for inter-generational connection. One of the original members, Marjorie Holmes, 92, from
precautions and care to stay healthy during the pandemic. I know that you’ve heard through our social media channels and our most recent series of board meetings this summer, that all schools in the Upper Canada District School Board are investing in the necessary precautions that promote enhanced health and hygiene practices, when our staff and students are at school, for example: wearing masks/face coverings, hand hygiene and physical distancing. Of course, the pandemic is a communitybased issue and we want to ensure that our schools
cont'd from page 16 dale Hall. “I’m trying to look at this from a broad range of possibilities,” he said. Councillor Ian Streight asked for a recorded vote when it came down to adopting the minutes of the committee of the whole meeting, ratifying their decision to move ahead with the recreation feasibility study. In the end, the motion was passed with Councillor Streight and Councillor Jennings voting against moving forward with the study, and Reeve Dobson, Sept.9, 2020
Deputy Reeve Van Der Meer and Councillor Carroll voting to move ahead with it. “We are very disappointed that three councillors chose to ignore 248 residents and taxpayers of Montague Township and go ahead and spend $29,100 on a frivolous study,” Bev wrote in an email. “We feel disrespected by those three Councillors and will be watching, documenting, and questioning every wasteful expenditure to be ready for the next election!”
A newer member, Nancy, said she was extremely impressed from the start about the quality of the work of the women in the group. She thinks it is a great place to learn about hooking because everyone is so willing to share their knowledge. “You feel a part of it really quickly,” she said. The members of the RVBB are passionate about hooking, and the pieces that they shared at the meeting last week were true works of art. There is also a clear camaraderie between members which is contagious. It made me want to take up rug hooking myself.
The RVBB is always happy to welcome new members. Due to COVID-19, they are meeting at the Burritts Rapids locks while the weather is still nice, and they hope to move into the Burritts Rapids Community Hall once again in the Fall. A dedicated team within the group has also created a Hook Book to celebrate their 40th anniversary with stories from members as well as hooking patterns and tips and tricks. For more information about the Hook Book, or the Rug Hooking Group in general, email RVBBrughooking@gmail. com.
RVBB rug hooking group at the Burritts Rapids Locks
An Open Letter to Parents
from John McAllister, Chair of the Upper Canada District School Board Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers and Staff, I want to welcome all our students and staff back to this new school year and to let you know how excited we are to reconnect with you again! As Chair of the Board, and as a parent and grandparent, I am delighted by the return of your children to another year of learning so that they can continue to realize their potential in our schools. This transition back to school is taking place while we all continue to take the necessary
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must all agree that this year’s school reopening is like no other in recent memory. As the Minister of Education remarked a few months ago, “[we] are in unprecedented times …when schools reopen, we know that school may not look or feel the same.” These are wise words, and our Board of Trustees and staff all ask for your continued patience, understanding, and support as we prepare for the first day of school and beyond. Regrettably, parents may have received a communication this past weekend from one of our labour groups that served to diminish the accomplishments and exemplary work that our frontline employees have demonstrated over the last five months. Furthermore, their communication featured misleading and inaccurate information about how we are approaching program delivery for remote learning that fully attends to district guidelines for privacy and security in virtual environments. I cannot fathom why the communication shared by the teachers’ federation failed to acknowledge that the remote learning guidelines for priva-
are doing their part to keep the community transmission rates of COVID-19 low and under control. Given these circumstances, we are also teaching our students about the responsibilities of active citizenship and what it means to live our lives responsibly and with an appreciation of the broader challenges around us. Indeed, there is a need to appreciate the broader challenges around us resulting from the pandemic and this begins by acknowledging the stellar work of all of our UCDSB employees over the past five months. The efforts of our Director of Education, superintendents, teachers, school principals, vice-principals and support staff have made possible the return to a regular day school program in our schools this fall, beginning on Friday, September 11. Their collective efforts to also deliver remote learning, in real-time, from April 2020 to June 2020 means we have a good start for delivering the choice of remote learning to students and families who feel this best serves their needs during the 2020-2021 school year. Nevertheless, we 17
cy and security have been in place since May 2020. How strange it was for the Board of Trustees to learn that the union’s letter was circulated just mere hours after senior administration from the board had briefed our union presidents about the current approach for delivering remote learning in our school district. For those who care to know the facts, allow me to share the following: In their efforts to address their duties and commitments to our students, I cannot accept that any of our local teachers -- many of whom are our family members, neighbours and friends -would not understand their professional responsibilities to teach their students with the care, safety, and privacy in mind. It is important to note that over 900 of our educators were involved in virtual professional learning sessions last week, which focused on eight different topics including the use of our video-conferencing tools. This speaks to our staff’s deep commitment as learners, their professional interests to prepare for their duties, and to improve in their craft.
While our local labour executives have overlooked the opportunity to do so, I want to acknowledge how our frontline teachers are doing all they can to prepare and welcome children to the start of this new school year - whether in-person or online. Members of the Board of Trustees wish you to know that we are here to support your efforts to build on your program delivery experiences from last year. Let’s keep our attention on what matters most: the safe return and successful start of students in their school program this September and recognizing the exemplary work that our staff are doing right now to prepare for their arrival on September 11. Sincerely, John McAllister
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BACKYARD ASTRONOMY
Spotting A Galaxy
by Gary Boyle The Backyard Astronomer Looking up at a clear sky is something we do naturally, whether you are taking a latenight stroll, walking the dog, or just relaxing on the deck. Without the aid of binoculars or a telescope, our eyes have a difficult time seeing faint celestial objects that reside in the universe. We do see simple bright objects like the moon and bright stars and planets, but that is the limit our one-power eyeballs can see. However, this is not always the case.
As a majority of people live in or around light-polluted cities and towns, the true night sky is hidden behind a dome of scattered light. To appreciate the wonders of the cosmos, a trip to the countryside on a moonless night, away from all lights is a must. Once you experience being under a blanket of distant suns, your mind will fill with so many questions. The most common being “are we alone”? Every star you see in the sky belongs to our galaxy, including the grayish band that stretches high overhead. This
is catalogued as Messier 31, or M31 for short, and is much wider than our galaxy, containing as many as a trillion stars. M31 is the only galaxy that can be seen with the naked eye, but there are a few star clusters and nebulas that reside in the Milky Way that are bright enough to glimpse without optical aid. Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary Boyle is an astronomy educator, guest speaker and monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He has been interviewed on more than 50 Canadian radio stations and local Ottawa TV. In recognition of his public outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle. Follow him on Twitter: @astroeducator or his website: www. wondersofastronomy.com.
is what the Romans called the “Via Lactia”, the Milky Way, and is the collective glow of starlight. There are an estimated 250 billion stars in our galaxy which, from afar, looks like a pancake disk more than 100,000 light-years in length and a few light-years thick with a larger bulge in the middle called the nucleus. Our galaxy is one of an estimated two trillion in the observable universe. This was not the case before the night of October 5, 1923, when Edwin Hubble imaged a faint patch of light in the constellation Andromeda with a 100-inch telescope. It was determined this was “another” galaxy. The Milky Way was no longer a unique object, but one of many. You can see this galaxy on a clear night from a dark sky even without a telescope or binoculars. It is called the Andromeda Galaxy and is located two and a quarter million light-years away. The Andromeda Galaxy is the closest galaxy to ours and looks like a little smudge. It
The economic benefits of prisons in small towns? by Jim Bertram The prison project proposed for the town of Kemptville has been put forward, at least partially, based on the assertion that such a project will spur economic development. Whether that is true or not does not change the fact that this project was sprung on municipal Council with no previous consultation. Or so I have been told. Of course, like all bald assertions, the economic development argument must be examined to see if there really is likely to be a general broad-based economic benefit to this community from the proposed jail project. There will, of course, be benefits for some local interests. But will the larger part of the population reap a benefit? One research project on this subject (among others) (https://news.wsu. edu/2004/07/19/wsu-researchers-find-prisons-offer-few-economic-benefitsto-small-towns/ ) in the United States was led by Gregory Hooks, Chair of the Department of Sociology at Washington State University. It was done in collaboration with WSU sociologists Clay Mosher and Thomas Rotolo, as well Sept. 9, 2020
as Linda Lobao, an Ohio State University sociologist and past president of the Rural Sociological Society. The study turned up some surprising results. “We found no evidence that prison expansion has stimulated economic growth,” Hooks said of the nationwide (USA) study that assessed the impact of both new and existing American rural prisons over the past 25 years. The study determined that, contrary to received wisdom on this subject, becoming the site of a new prison/jail /correctional facility - call it what you will - may actually hinder economic development efforts, particularly in rural communities that are already hard-pressed. Dr. Hooks commented: “We provide evidence that prison construction has actually impeded economic growth in those rural communities that were already growing at a slower pace. In slow-growing counties, it appears that new prisons do more harm than good.” The reasons for this are many, complex, and sometimes counter-intuitive. But they apparently are real. Unlike previous studies on this topic, which the researchers said relied largely on the perceptions of busi-
ness leaders or considered only a small number of study sites, the most recent research (2005) analyzed the economic impacts of prisons on communities in more than 3,100 counties throughout 48 states. It suggests that three major traditional indicators of economic wellbeing in rural communities - growth in earnings, per capita income, and employment - consistently showed relatively little improvement as the result of local prison construction throughout the period from 1969 to 1994. “There is a visible pattern of earnings and employment growth,” Hooks noted. “However, those counties without a prison have the highest annual rate of growth – and those with a newly built prison grew at the slowest pace.” If at all. This last observation is significant for the case of Kemptville. While the researchers suggest additional study is needed to explain why prisons seem to impede economic growth in some communities, they believe the findings are an indication that small towns may be paying too high a premium in accepting the establishment of such facilities. Unfortunately, a relatively poor
rural jurisdiction like North Grenville just doesn’t have the financial resources to maintain adequate infrastructure in support of the additional requirements imposed by such an institution. That’s true now. And given the secretive, non-transparent nature of the provincial government, who knows what the growth of this economic Trojan horse might be in the future? What demands will it make on the municipality – that is YOU - the tax base – in coming years? And the infrastructure created to satisfy the requirements of the new and growing prison complex may be ill-suited for other potential employers; employers whose employees would be unwilling to relocate to the little jail town of Kemptville and for a host of reasons. The oft-cited and much vaunted positive impact on employment and economic development of a new jail was shown in the study cited to be a boon to surrounding municipalities which did not have the responsibility of providing for a large, soon to become much larger, jail and the tax hikes to come with it. Around 60% or more of the benefits which DO accrue went to neighbouring jurisdictions, since workers 18
The Voice of North Grenville
Baldwin’s Birds
by John Baldwin This past weekend gave some good opportunities to regard our garden birds and insects close-up. A sunny afternoon brought a White Admiral Butterfly to our white flowering “Pom- Pom” bush (Hydrangea ). This was followed up the next drizzly day, by using our parked car as a bird watching “hide”. And what a treat that provided, along with my outside suspended bird feeders (2 Peanut, 2 Niger seed and a Hummingbird sugar feeder). I was, for over two hours, able to observe and photograph Hummingbirds, Downy Woodpeckers, Chickadees, North American Gold Finches, Rose Breasted Nuthatch, Baltimore Oriole, Mourning Dove, all either to-ing and fro-ing to the feeders, ground feeding, or just perched in the very nearby pine trees. The marauding wasps, at the sugar feeder, inadvertently gave great chances to catch the Hummingbird in flight. The wasps caused the Hummingbird to check itself in flight, so as to observe which access holes, to the sugar water, were vacant. This provided wonderful chances to catch them on camera, as they hovered for a split second, to decide which one was wasp free. The wasps even appear in some of the pictures! Can’t imagine the birds wanted to stick their tongue into a hole where a stinging beast might be, I certainly wouldn’t! Once again, another wonderful experience to witness the lovely things that nature provides us, should we care to look for them. It is a pity that some of them will soon be departing for the journey south, in the not too distant future, so continue to enjoy them while you can.
chose to live in a town which had no prison. Bad news for our town, Kemptville. Say good-bye as well to Council’s much ballyhooed Tourism Study. Thanks Mr. Ford. Will you give us ANY warning next time? In conclusion, I have to stop writing now or Dr. Shanahan (and others) will accuse me of being longwinded. Vraiment? Moi? But I encourage you to research all aspects of the “economic benefit of a jail argument” and not fall for half-baked stock assertions of benefit for all. They just aren’t there. Require that your Council do more than back away into accommodating, non-leadership positions- (“It’s above our pay grade”-- “Let’s look at the
silver lining” , etc.,) - on this topic, as some will try to do. I am no longer on Council to lead on matters like this which require strong spirited dissent, so you yourselves will have to create pressure in resistance to what is surely a bad deal for Kemptville over the intermediate to long term. Check the municipal website for e-mail addresses. Write to your Councillors. Write e-mails to your MPP with cc’s to all and sundry in the media world. Stand up for your neighbours, your kids, yourselves. You may even decide to mention possible future voting intentions. I have.
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Open For Business Support Local, now more than ever! Geronimo Coffee House CLOSED MONDAYS
Our current hours are Tuesday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm Sat. & Sun 9:00am to 2:00pm. Orders can also be placed ahead by phone at 613-258-2782. 46 Prescott St, Kemptville
Complete Family Meals For Family of 4 or 2
Curbside Menu #27
Meals are now offered Tuesday through Friday
The delivery time in Ottawa will be early afternoon, in Kemptville area, mid afternoon. The cost of a meal is $23.50, Delivery is $5.00 per drop. HST extra
Tuesday September 15
1- Chicken “Cordon Bleu” stuffed with blue cheese and spinach 2- Spinach quiche with curried chick peas and feta
Wednesday September 16
1- Spaghetti and meat balls, Cesar salad 2- Louisiana style beans and rice, crispy iceberg blue cheese dressing
NEW STORE HOURS Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday
Thursday September 17
1-Lamb curry with lentils, Basmati rice. 2- Green curry tofu with cauliflower, rice noodles
613.258.3014
Sept.9, 2020
Call 613-324-3136 or order online www.cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136. Call number on Catered Affairs truck upon arrival and we will run it out. All meals come with Local green salad & chef’s choice of dessert. Chicken Korma Tender boneless chicken in curry coconut sauce, Basmati rice, Vegetable Samosas & tamarind sauce 1 per person & Flatbread.
Friday September 18
All meals will come with the appropriate side (potatoes, rice, couscous, vegetables, side salad, etc…)
Buddha Salad Bowl (Vegan & G/F available) Sliced chicken breast or grilled tofu, 3 grain rice, avocado, cucumber, cabbage, peppers & peas, Vietnamese rice paper rolls with sweet chili sauce 1 per person, Asian green salad with carrot/ginger vinaigrette,
1- Cod fillet in lemon sauce, steamed potatoes 2- Potato & vegetable strudel
Catered Affairs Chinese Takeout Sweet & sour chicken balls, beef & broccoli stir fry, fried rice, Asian Garlic Noodles, Pork egg rolls with plum sauce
Sunday
301 Rideau Street, Kemptville
Hectic week of back to school! Pre order a home style meal from us.
Pulled pork with Smoked BBQ Sauce Roasted sweet potato wedges, Buns, seasonal vegetables, Cabbage salad.
8:00am to 6:00pm 9:00am to 6:00pm
Tues Sept 15- Fri Sept 18th. Please preorder the day before! Meals for 4 $65 + HST Meals for 2 $35 + HST
Book your Thanksgiving Dinner NOW (October 11 and 12)
Butternut Squash soup, Turkey and all the trimmings, Pumpkin pie $30.00 per person plus delivery HST extra
613.860.2539
IT IS NOT TOO EARLY TO BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY
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Swedish Meatballs Beef meatballs in sourcream sauce, whipped mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, veggies
BACK TO SCHOOL DINNER
Oven Ready Casseroles 9”x13” pan. Feeds 4-6 $40 + HST Beef & Cheese lasagna 3 Cheese Mac n Cheese Bacon Mac n Cheese Cabbage Rolls
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The Voice of North Grenville
Highlights from UCDSB Special Board of Trustees Meeting
Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) met virtually on Wednesday, September 2, 2020 for a Special Board of Trustees meeting. The meeting was broadcasted live and recorded using Microsoft Teams. Trustees discussed several agenda items. Update on UCDSB School Operations: UCDSB staff presented the revised Return to School Guide that has been updated to reflect new directives received over the past two weeks from the Ministry of Education and advice from our Chief Medical Officers of Health. Key revisions to the guide include:a staggered entry for students starting on September 11, with all students in school by September 15; information about secondary quadmesters, including a new secondary school calendar; remote learning options; Parent screening tool; and mask exemption process for students. It is important to note that parents who wish to have their child exempt from wearing a mask must complete the COVID-19 Mask Exemption Form and submit
it to the school principal before the child attends school without a mask. Update on the UCDSB Remote Learning Model: UCDSB staff provided an update on the current remote learning model and clarifications around synchronous learning and privacy. The Remote Learning Guide, a companion document to the Return to School Guide is posted on the Return to School Information page. This guide provides a specific overview of the three models of remote program delivery: synchronous digital (digital learning, in real-time, from home), asynchronous digital (digital learning, not in real time, from home) and asynchronous non-digital (learning offline, at home, using print materials). UCDSB staff have been providing additional information to provide a clear overview of the safety measures that are inherent to our Board-supported digital tools (Brightspace D2L, Microsoft Teams and Boardissued student email). Additionally, there are several Board policies that support
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the effective use of digital tools and/or provide mechanisms for addressing incidents of intentional misuse of digital tools and applications. These policies are outlined in the Maintaining Care, Support and Privacy in UCDSB Remote Learning Programs document. After some discussion around the remote learning model, trustees approved a motion that the Director of Education report to the Board on the feasibility, cost, and the implementation schedule related to the setup of a virtual school for all students in the synchronous K-6 model. This report would be presented to the Board by no later than November 25, 2020. Update on Funding Sources to Respond to Projected COVID-19 Expenses: UCDSB staff updated trustees of current and potential sources of revenue that could be applied to support the COVID-19 response as well as expenditures to date. As a result of uncommitted staffing supports related to contractual agreements, contingencies identified during the 2020-2021 budget process and funding support from the Ministry of Education, a total of $14.3 million was identified as revenue that could be applied to the COVID-19 response in the UCDSB.
Une rentrée sécuritaire et accueillante! Le Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO) est très heureux d’accueillir de nouveau ses 17 500 élèves dans ses 43 écoles lors d’une rentrée des classes accueillante, bienveillante et sécuritaire. « Au CEPEO, la santé et le bien-être de nos élèves et de notre personnel demeurent notre priorité et toutes les mesures sont prises pour que tous et toutes puissent apprendre et travailler dans un environnement sécuritaire, qui respecte les directives des autorités gouvernementales et de santé publique. Je tiens à remercier l’ensemble des équipes qui se sont mobilisées depuis plusieurs mois pour permettre à nos élèves de revenir sur les bancs de l’école, et ce en format présentiel ou en format virtuel » affirme Denis Chartrand, président du CEPEO. En effet, pour cette rentrée scolaire atypique, les familles du CEPEO ont pu choisir le mode de fréquentation scolaire qui leur convenait le mieux entre un programme en présentiel en salles de classe et le Programme d’apprentissage virtuel des écoles (P.A.V.É.). Les parents de près de 2800 élèves ont ainsi choisi le P.A.V.É. Ces derniers seront accueillis dans leur classe virtuelle dès le mardi 8 septembre. « Le CEPEO s’est engagé à offrir un enseignement de qualité aussi bien en format virtuel qu’en présentiel à l’ensemble de ses élèves. Les équipes-école ont mis en place toute une série de mesures visant à réduire les risques de propagation de la COVID-19 comme un horaire régulier de lavage des mains, le port du masque, la distanciation physique et la mise en place de cohortes d’élèves. Nous sommes conscients que la situation pandémique est évolutive et c’est pourquoi des ajustements seront apportés au courant de l’année scolaire. Tous les membres du personnel sont résolument engagés à faire en sorte que cette rentrée scolaire exceptionnelle se fasse dans la bienveillance, la sécurité et le calme. Ils veilleront également à accompagner les élèves et les apprenants dans cette nouvelle réalité scolaire » ajoute Sylvie C.R. Tremblay, directrice de l’éducation du CEPEO. « Cette année sera aussi une année importante dans le développement du CEPEO. Outre la construction d’une nouvelle école élémentaire publique dans le secteur Kanata-Stitsville et plusieurs projets de développement en cours sur l’ensemble de notre territoire, nous allons également dévoiler le nouveau plan stratégique 2020-2025 du CEPEO, réalisé après d’importantes consultations auprès de toute notre communauté scolaire. Je suis particulièrement fière d’appartenir à un conseil scolaire engagé qui contribue au dynamisme, à la vitalité et à la pérennité de la francophonie dans toute sa diversité et ce même pendant ces derniers mois de confinement.» Les inscriptions ont lieu en tout temps dans les écoles du CEPEO ou en ligne au cepeo. on.ca/inscription. Pour des renseignements supplémentaires, veuillez communiquer avec nous à l’adresse inscription@cepeo.on.ca par téléphone au 613 742-8960, poste 3004 ou au numéro sans frais : 1-888-332-3736, poste 3004. Bonne rentrée à toutes et à tous!
Support Local, now TIMES more Gord Logan than ever! the north grenville
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