Issue 12 2020 March 25 NG Times

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Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford

The Voice of North Grenville

Vol 8, NO 12

March 25, 2020

Dear Valued Customers and Friends, In this time of crisis, our thoughts go out to our community at large. While social-distancing is called for to help reduce the spread, please remember to take care of yourselves and each other. Be safe. Be kind. Be Well.

We look forward to serving you again in the near future.

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by Mayor Nancy Peckford It has been an extraordinary ten days as Canadians have adapted quickly to a new and ever-changing reality.

Covid-19 (or the coronavirus) has brought unprecedented disruptions to our daily lives, from school and daycare closures, work from home arrangements, heightened risk for those with pre-existing health conditions, as well as imposed self-isolation for many, not to mention social distancing for everyone else.

Getting the groceries, going to the dentist, meeting friends, hosting a birthday party, or travelling across the border are no longer ordinary events.

As Mayor and Council, our job is to ensure that our

Municipality is proactive and prudent in its response.

The Municipality’s Emergency Management Control Group in North Grenville - comprised of the Chief Administrative Office, senior management team, Mayor and the emergency management coordinator – was activated and met for the first time on Friday, March 13, and an additional three times last week. The municipal control group will remain active for the foreseeable future.

North Grenville is blessed with a great team – including CAO Gary Dyke, a seasoned leader with crisis management experience, and Chief John Okum, Director of Fire Services and Emergency Preparedness. All staff are up

to the challenge of managing risk while keeping things moving.

As many know, the municipality has made some important but difficult decisions: 1/The closure of all municipal facilities until April 5 (at a minimum) and municipal offices (except by appointment); 2/The cancellation of all Municipal Advisory committees meetings; 3/The provision of temporary relief from interest and late fees for property taxes payments (until April 30).

Municipal core operations will still continue, however, including police and fire protection services, building permits and inspections, waste management, water and sewage treatment, road

maintenance and repair, and facilities maintenance.

All my Council colleagues have received a full briefing from the Emergency Control group. How Council continues to meet, particularly if someone goes into self-isolation, is one of our primary considerations. Fortunately, provincial Minister Steve Clark brought legislation forward to enable electronic participation in Council and Committee meetings.

Ensuring that government proceedings remain available to the public is key. During our March 17 Council meeting, we strongly encouraged folks to live stream the meeting. Several residents emailed questions, and we responded in real-time. While no technology is perfect, the reality is it is a powerful and useful tool during a time like this.

Important discussions are also taking place at the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. Nearly 33% of NG’s property taxes are paid to the Counties for paramedic services, public health, long term care, access to housing, provincial income supports, childcare, regional economic development and more. My colleague, Mayor Doug Malanka from Augusta, serves as Chair of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Public continued on page 2

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continued from front page Health Unit.

At our March 19 Counties meeting, we had a lively discussion on ensuring residents and businesses get what they need during this crisis. There are many perspectives, and we bring a diversity of professional backgrounds to the discussion.

Ultimately, what is most important now is our every-

day acts. We are a very caring and responsible community.

Please limit non-essential trips to retail outlets, including grocery stores. Watch Councillor O’Sullivan’s video on proper handwashing techniques (she has 40 years of nursing experience!).

Confine social gatherings to just family and very close friends. Support local businesses through take-out and online options. Get out-

(across from old Bingo Hall)

doors and enjoy the trails at Ferguson Forest, Limerick and in town! Call or email your neighbours to check on them.

Our Kemptville & District Home support is providing additional phone support for seniors feeling isolated.

Accessible transportation through ATS is available for crucial trips. If you are experiencing spousal or elder abuse, Victim Services can be reached at 1-800-939-7682 or at www.vslg.ca. Youth Connect will assist vulnerable youth who are not safe at home.

Local food banks, including the Salvation Army and the Knights of Columbus, are taking extra precautions while offering food supplies, no questions asked. The Knights will deliver a food hamper to your front porch.

Many grocery stores are offering pick up services, and B&H offers home delivery (including garbage tags!).

These are trying and challenging times, which demand the best of us. We have a long history of enduring crises together and coming out stronger. This one will be no exception.

KDH: “We’re here for the residents of North Grenville” “We’ve taken the appropriate measures to be prepared for COVID-19 and we’re here for the residents of North Grenville,” is the message from Kemptville District Hospital (KDH).

“KDH has taken a number of steps to ensure that during the COVID-19 pandemic the hospital remains as safe as possible for our patients, staff and visitors,” said its CEO, Frank Vassallo.

These steps include screening everyone entering the building and isolating those patients who are symptomatic for respiratory illness from those who aren’t, training all staff on appropriate use of personal protective equipment and assuring there are adequate supplies, and augmenting cleaning and disinfection procedures.

Consistent with guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health, KDH is carefully scaling back non-urgent surgeries, procedures, and outpatient programming and clinics. These measures have been taken so the hospital

is ready to take on potential COVID-19 cases and ensure the safety of patients, families and its workforce throughout the pandemic.

The hospital’s Emergency Department remains open 24/7. “We are open and here to treat anyone experiencing an emergency – whether COVID-19 related or otherwise,” said Dr. Jonathan Rathwell, KDH’s Chief of Emergency Medicine.

“However,” he cautioned, “people should be aware that the health system is strained right now and everyone can help by not coming to the ER unnecessarily. If you are well, or have a chronic, nonurgent issue, you should do your best to stay out of the ER and contact your primary care provider.”

In addition, people should not come to the ER simply to get tested for coronavirus, Dr. Rathwell said, as that will overwhelm the system and there is no need in most cases. People who suspect they may have COVID-19 should contact Telehealth

Ontario (1-866-797-0000), their local public health unit, or their primary care provider for assistance in determining whether they need to be seen and assessed or tested.

“Please do not present directly to the emergency department, as most people with COVID-19 can selfcare at home and do not need medical attention,” said Dr. Rathwell. “This will help protect resources and other more vulnerable patients who do need emergency care.”

If and when the need to treat COVID-19 cases increases, KDH has developed contingency plans to deal with greater volumes of people made ill by the virus. CEO Vassallo noted that planning for larger-scale assessment and treatment of COVID-19 is in collaboration with the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit.

KDH’s VP of Nursing and Clinical Services took the opportunity to commend the hospital’s clinical staff for their efforts during the pandemic: “Our nurses, doctors,

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rehab team, and lab staff have really risen to the occasion,” she said. “I am so grateful for their professionalism and compassion during these extraordinary times.”

Frank Vassallo added his thanks to the rest of the KDH workforce, including dietary, IT, maintenance, environmental services, and support staff.

“I can’t express how proud I am of the way everybody is pulling together,” he said.

“I am also grateful to our regional health service partner organizations in Eastern Ontario that continue to work together to provide seamless service delivery in our region, whether it is to address the high priority needs of COVID-19, or any other health matter that arises”.

The KDH website’s COVID-19 page is being updated on a daily basis; the public are encouraged to check for further alteration of services as the situation evolves: www.kdh.on.ca/patientvisitor-info/covid-19-updates.

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No need for panic buying

Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, issued the following statement related to grocery buying habits and COVID-19 in Ontario: “The health and well-being of the people of Ontario is our government's number one priority. Ontarians can be confident that our food supply is robust and that our distribution system will continue to operate and remain responsive to the needs of Ontarians. Rest assured, we have plenty of food that will continue to reach grocery stores on a regular basis.Our food supply chain is one of the strongest in the world and our government remains committed to ensuring Ontarians can access healthy and nutritious Ontario-produced foods.

Please practice normal grocery buying habits and rest assured that our grocery production andsupply chain will continue to provide Ontarians with the food we enjoy each and every day.”

2 March 25, 2020

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Editorial

The North Grenville Times

Pressing on

by David Shanahan What a strange world we’re living in. One day, history books will be written about these days and the amazing global experience we’re all sharing now. But that is the future, and, right now, the future seems kind of vague and distant. You will notice, faithful reader, that this issue seems more of a Public Service Announcement than is usual for the Times. But it is vital that we get information out to our friends and neighbours to help them understand and deal with the current situation.

We need to adjust to new realities, but, at the same time, keep our heads and sense of perspective. Countries like Italy and Spain are going through truly traumatic times, as thousands of their citizens die from this strange new thing called Covid-19.

Other countries, taking precautions and strict measures of self-isolation and social distancing, are handling the crisis better, with far fewer deaths and cases of illness.

And Canada is one of those countries.

I mentioned last week that, on average, the regular flu kills 3,500 in Canada every year. We are still far from that at the moment, with a death toll of 19 at the time of writing, Sunday, March 22.

According to government and international sources, around 80% of cases of Covid-19 will be a mild to moderate illness, close to 14% have severe disease and around 6% are critical. To become infected, generally, you need to be 15 minutes or more in the vicinity of an infected person, within 1-2 metres, to be considered at risk or a close contact.

But we know that now.

Terms like “self-isolation” and “social distancing”, and “flatten the curve”, have already become part of everyday talk, and that is good. We know what to do, and we have to do it. But we do it calmly, without panic, without overreacting.

It is astonishing, though, how many people have ignored their responsibilities.

Bondi Beach in Australia:

closed because so many people were going there to swim and hang out. Argentina, when the government called for a 14-day isolation period, cars were backed up for 2 kms at beaches, as people enjoyed the late summer sun. Even in Italy, where the death toll is highest, people were still gathering in crowds.

But back to Canada: we don’t know how long this strange period will last, but we have to remember to live, to sing and dance, to jog, pray, and phone our friends and family, to make sure noone is lonely, even if they’re alone. There are still coffee shops and restaurants in North Grenville and MerrickvilleWolford serving take-out.

Give them your business, they are trying to survive this and it isn’t easy. Even the North Grenville Times is facing uncertainty. Will we have enough advertising revenue (our only source of revenue) to continue printing, or will we have to exist only on-line at some point?

We may see a sudden rise in cases confirmed, and possibly of deaths too. We have

to expect that, perhaps. But it will end, just as previous pandemics and epidemics have. It just takes time, but less time, if we follow the advice and remain responsible citizens. We do so for the sake of our children, our parents, our friends and the nation. Believe it or not (and you should believe it and make it central to your behaviour), self-isolation and social distancing on your part will save lives. It is that simple.

Thank God that we have the internet at a time like this.

We may be socially isolated, but we need not be emotionally or spiritually isolated.

There is music, movies, concerts of all kinds, available for us to enjoy. I love the fact that Italians, and even Germans too, are going out on balconies and spaces to sing to each other. The plans announced by the governments, federally and provincially, to ease the financial stress on those laid off during this period will help. Read all the advice provided in these pages, and realise that life is not over, not even on hold, if we choose to embrace it. Get

use them anytime soon. We may need the capital reserves just to continue providing public works and emergency services.

4) Freeze on any new debt. Work on paying off municipal debt.

5) No more spending on master plans. The situation is changing too rapidly and may have long lasting effects. If the province wants to mandate various master plans, they can pay for them.

6) Re-focus on the financial health of taxpayers rather than expansion of non-core services.

7) Use the down time of this crisis to get the province to revise their ideas about sprawl. Zoning and planning rules need to be changed to allow cheap, easy, and fast approval of rural land severances and rural subdivisions. Reduce rural development fees by 80%.

Reduce building permit fees by 50%. You can sustain growth this way through

tough economic times. Our society is more secure and resilient when people have a chance to be self-sufficient on their own piece of rural property. They'll have their own well and septic, and enough land to have home businesses and large gardens if desired.

The tax base will increase in rural areas which will help fund road improvements. The municipality will not have to build bigger sewer and water facilities, sidewalks, streetlights and other expensive urban infrastructure.

8) More aggressive bidding and purchasing practices to reduce costs.

9) Forget provincial rules on 20 year equipment replacement. If for example, a road grader or firetruck is still reliable and useful, replace it only when it is no longer serviceable.

Stephen Hammond

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, Re: Zoning Bylaw Amendment. I do understand Mr. Bertram’s concern for his water safety, land value, and the other concerns he has. I would be upset also in the same circumstances, but I could conjure more sympathy if he had concerns also for the indigenous people everywhere, but lately those in Northern British Columbia.

That is pristine land where they want to put a pipeline through to the Pacific Ocean.

Who has concerns about their water, and trucks, and lost forest and hunting grounds? Did we want the TransCanada coming through Ontario and under at least one important river?

A contaminated aquifer could have affected Mr. Bertram’s water also. Did you speak up, sir? These lands belonged to the indigenous people before we arrived, and how did we treat them?

We rode roughshod over them. Business, industry and

greed does that very often, unfortunately.

Kath Piché Dear Editor, Recommendations for North Grenville council in these difficult times: 1) 20% reduction in property tax bills immediately.

2) Hiring freeze and pay freeze. Immediate temporary layoff of non-essential staff.

This would exclude public works and emergency services. Shut down the parks and rec. department except for parks and trails and put under the direction of public works.

The municipality should not be encouraging any public gatherings. Get as many employees as possible out of the municipal center to minimize COVID-19 risks.

3) Capital spending freeze for anything not related to public works and emergency services. There's no point in enhancing parks and rec. facilities and heritage buildings when we may not be able to

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 March 25, 2020

the north grenville

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

TIMES

Marketing Shannon Lever shannon@ngtimes.ca 613-791-8317

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

OFFICE 613-215-0735 Accounting cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

Copy Editor Pat Jessop editor@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

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The Voice of North Grenville

out for a walk, a run, out in the fresh air. Social media sites have been sources of genuine concern for many reasons, but this is one time they can play a really positive role, so use them to stay in touch with the vulnerable, the elderly, with friends and family.

Let us know how you’re doing. Write to us, e-mail us, leave a phone message, telling us how you’re doing and what you’ve found to share with the community. In this issue, our intrepid reporter, Hilary, writes about her journey back from Nepal to Canada, passing through uncertain times and places. Do you have a story too? Are you finding it hard to be isolated? Let’s share this experience with each other, it may help others, and it may help you to deal with the understandable fear and anxiety so many are feeling.

This, too, shall pass: the end is not yet. The times are in his hands. Let’s keep pressing on.

Help Support Local News with a Voluntary Subscription

The North Grenville Times is part of the community. We provide a platform which gives residents a voice and an insight into events and developments in the municipality, and beyond. We spend time in the community, talking to local residents, covering school and government issues, and writing about issues that most of our readers find interesting.

Because the costs of production and delivery increase every year, we need your help to remain a viable local news source. Our advertisers can no longer shoulder the entire burden. To that end, we are introducing voluntary subscriptions, as we look to diversify revenue streams. Help us to maintain door-to-door delivery, which is an increasingly expensive undertaking and a major cost for any newspaper.

Let us stress: this is entirely voluntary and all North Grenville and Merrickville-Wolford residents will continue to receive the North Grenville Times in their mailbox.

ONE YEAR (51 ISSUES) VOLUNTARY SUBSCRIPTION $51.00 (includes HST) With your subscription you will

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Be eligible for any giveaway the paper has during the year WAYS TO PAY: IN PERSON: If you prefer, you may pay in person at our office by cash, cheque, or credit card. Our office is located at 215 Sanders St, Suite 106, Kemptville, ON .

Hours are Tuesday-Thursday, 9AM to 3PM.

BY PHONE: You may also pay over the phone with a credit card by calling us during the hours above at 613-215-0735.

BY MAIL: You may subscribe by sending a cheque to: Box 1854, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0. Be sure to include your name, address and e-mail.

If you have questions about subscribing, call us at 613-215-0735 or printme@ngtimes.ca Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

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Major events cancelled

Ontario to protect workers who take leave from work

As both North Grenville and Merrickville-Wolford have called for the cancellation of events that bring people together, and have closed all their municipal buildings to the public, The Ontario Government has passed two crucial pieces a number of important events have announced cancellation. of legislation. The Province took unprecedented action to Among them are: respond to COVID-19 by convening an emergency sitting of The Board of the North Grenville Historical Society has decided to postpone their Annual General Meeting scheduled the legislature and passing two pieces of legislation which will protect the jobs of employees who self-isolate or quarantine, for April 8. In a statement from NGHS President, Ken Mews, help keep store shelves stocked and give municipal councils he stated that: “The Municipality has closed all municipal the flexibility to continue operations while maintaining social buildings to the public. This includes the Court House. We distance. will be unable to serve archives users or hold meetings until The legislation passed with unanimous consent by only 26 this closure has been lifted.

MPPs. The number of members participating in this extraordi“In addition, the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario has recommended that meetings with more than 50 pernary session was intentionally kept small in order to practice sons should be cancelled. We have been having an average of social distancing and help prevent the spread of COVID-19. A 45 at recent meetings. Taking these factors into consideration, first in Ontario history. Premier Doug Ford says this legislation we have decided to postpone the AGM scheduled for April will protect Ontario's work force.

8. We will be in touch again if it appears we will be able to "I want to thank all parties for coming together to pass hold it on May 13, although that seems unlikely at this time.” this important legislation so we can deliver immediate relief Ironically, the topic planned for the AGM’s speaker was to Ontario workers and families. The health and safety of the The Spanish Influenza Pandemic of 1918-19. people of Ontario is our number one priority and that's why The Merrickville and District Historical Society (MDHS) we are protecting the jobs of workers and making sure that has cancelled its March 2020 meeting and has taken the deciessentials like groceries, household basics, and medicine can sion to cancel their Open House scheduled for April 26, 2020 arrive on store shelves. We must work together as Team Onat the Burritt's Rapids Community Hall. At the moment, the tario to slow the spread of COVID-19 and flatten the curve."

Hall is closed until further notice and it seems clearer by the The Employment Standards Amendment Act (Infectious Disease Emergencies), 2020 provides job-protected leave day that social distancing will be the new norm for a while.

So, while they won't be needing your services on April 26, for employees who are in isolation or quarantine due to they are hoping that to be in touch, likely in the fall, to re- COVID-19, or those who need to be away from work to care schedule something. for children because of school or day care closures or to care

for other relatives. These measures are retroactive to January 25, 2020, the date the first presumptive COVID-19 case was confirmed in Ontario. The legislation will also make it clear employees cannot be required to show sick notes.

Minister of Labour Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton says the legislation protects workers. "During this time of great uncertainty, the last thing employees should have to worry about is job security. People can't be punished for folThe Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is waiving fees lowing the advice of our leading medical health professionals." at its Conservation Areas as public health officials encourage The Municipal Emergency Act, 2020 will ensure that for people to get out and enjoy a walk during these stressful times. the near future, the delivery of goods to Ontario's businesses and consumers isn't impacted by municipal noise by-laws that All trails and boardwalks owned and operated by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority will be open to the public free may unintentionally be impeding such deliveries when they are most urgently needed. The legislation also gives municiof charge until April 6, 2020. Interpretive centres and other facilities including washrooms and outhouses will be closed palities the ability to fully conduct Council, local board and committee meetings electronically when faced with local and however to protect the health and safety of visitors and staff. province-wide emergencies, empowering the government's “We recognize that this is a stressful time for people as everyone takes steps to help limit the spread of the Coronavirus” municipal partners to respond quickly when in-person meetsaid Sommer Casgrain-Robertson, RVCA General Manager. ings cannot be held.

“We hope that our 11 conservation areas can provide some "Mothers and fathers who need to care for children or decomfort by offering local residents with a close-to-home pendants shouldn't have to worry about losing their job," said outdoor escape where they can enjoy a relaxing walk in a Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills beautiful natural setting”.

Development. "The same goes for people who receive medical Many studies show that time spent in nature reduces or public health advice and are required to take precautions as stress levels, enhances mental attitude and of course improves a result. They shouldn't have to worry about losing their job. physical health. While enjoying our conservation areas we ask In this time of uncertainty, we need to support employees who that people maintain social distancing and avoid gathering in must isolate or quarantine themselves, or who need to care for groups or touching common surfaces. a loved one."

“We have more than 40 kilometres of trails through The legislation will provide job protection for employees mixed hardwood forests, meadows and wetlands,” says Ms. unable to work for the following reasons: Casgrain-Robertson. “We hope families will come and explore · The employee is under medical investigation, supervision our many hiking trails and scenic lookouts especially while or treatment for COVID-19. schools are closed.” · The employee is acting in accordance with an order under Conservation Areas in the Rideau watershed include: the Health Protection and Promotion Act. • Chapman Mills Conservation Area – Barrhaven/River· The employee is in isolation or quarantine. side South · The employee is acting in accordance with public health • Baxter Conservation Area – Kars information or direction.

• Meisel Woods Conservation Area — Crow Lake · The employer directs the employee not to work.

• Mill Pond Conservation Area – Portland · The employee needs to provide care to a person for a rea• Perth Wildlife Reserve – Perth son related to COVID-19 such as a school or day-care closure.

• Rideau Ferry Yacht Club Conservation Area – Rideau "These job protections could also contribute significantly Ferry to limiting the spread of COVID-19," said Rod Phillips, Min• Foley Mountain Conservation Area – Westport ister of Finance. "We are giving everyone the tools they need Visit www.rvca.ca/conservation-areas for a complete to put their health and the health of others first, without fear listing of locations. of losing their jobs."

RVCA Waiving Fees at Local Conservation Areas

March 25, 2020

4

The Voice of North Grenville

UPDATE UPDATE 2020 INTERIM TAX BILLS

All 2020 Interim Tax Bills have been mailed. Residents are encouraged to make payment online through our website at www.northgrenville.ca You may also use the secure drop box at the Municipal Centre or mail your cheque. Please note: The deadline remains March 31, however leniency will be granted for penalties and interest on late payments until the end of April. The schedule for penalties and interest will resume to normal in May. If you have any questions, please contact the Tax Collector, Karen Macpherson at 613-258-9569 ext 104 or kmacpherson@northgrenville.on.ca

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Senior Municipal By-Law Enforcement Officer

The Municipality of North Grenville is accepting resumes for interested and qualified candidates for the position of Senior Municipal By-Law Enforcement Officer. The closing date to receive applications is 4:00 pm on Monday, March 30, 2020.

Additional information is available at www.northgrenville.ca/ careers.

Municipal By-Law Enforcement Officer

The Municipality of North Grenville is accepting resumes for interested and qualified candidates for the position of Municipal By-Law Enforcement Officer. The closing date to receive applications is 4:00 pm on Monday, March 30, 2020. Additional information is available at www.northgrenville.ca/careers.

Executive Assistant to the Chief Administrative Officer The Municipality of North Grenville is accepting resumes for interested and qualified candidates for the position of Executive Assistant to the Chief Administrative Officer. The closing date to receive applications is 4:00 pm on Friday, April 3, 2020.

Additional information is available at www.northgrenville.ca/ careers.

Cemetery Attendant (Part-Time)

The Municipality of North Grenville is accepting resumes from interested and qualified candidates for the position of Cemetery Attendant. The closing date to receive applications is 4:00 pm on Wednesday, April 8, 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 x204 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

www.NorthGrenville.ca

Leeds Grenville Economic Development launches webpage for Business Information related to Covid-19 impact

The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office has launched a webpage: www.investleedsgrenville.com/covid19, to provide businesses with resources, surveys and programs that become available to support them during this difficult time with the impact of Covid-19.

Information has already been posted from BDC, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) and FedDev Ontario. Businesses are encouraged to subscribe to the webpage to ensure they receive updates as they are posted.

Also businesses are asked to ensure their contact information is up-to-date in the Counties business directory: www. investleedsgrenville.com/directory.

Economic Development staff are available via phone: 613-342-3840, or email econdev@uclg.on.ca, should you have any questions. the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

STEVE CLARK, MPP

Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes

T H E H E A LT H A N D W E L L - B E I N G OF ONTARIANS IS THE GOVERNMENT’S TOP PRIORITY

Please only visit an assessment centre if you have been referred by a health care professional.

PROTECTING ONTARIO WORKERS AND FAMILIES Since we first learned of COVID-19 as an emerging public health issue, Ontario has been diligently monitoring the developing situation to protect the health and well-being of all Ontarians.

The government is taking action to ensure readiness and respond to a range of outbreak scenarios.

They will continue to work with partners at every level to ensure the health and safety of Ontarians remains the top priority.

Contact Telehealth Ontario at

1-866-797-0000

if you’re experiencing symptoms

Information is changing daily, even hourly.

You can access up to date information on COVID-19 and take a self assessment at ontario.ca/coronavirus

ontario.ca/coronavirus PREVENTION

How does the virus spread?

HOW BEST TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY

Coronaviruses are spread mainly from person to person through close contact, for example, in a household, workplace or health care centre.

There is no vaccine available at the moment to protect against the 2019 novel coronavirus.

Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

What are the symptoms?

Cough and sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue.

Dispose of tissue immediately and wash your hands.

If you feel unwell (cough, fever, breathing difficulties), contact your health care provider or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.

If you need emergency medical attention you should call 911 and mention your travel history and symptoms.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Keep surfaces clean and disinfected.

For local information and the latest from the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit visit healthunit.org/coronavirus or call 1-800-660-5853.

Avoid contact with people who are sick.

STAY HOME if you are sick.

MY CONSITUENCY OFFICE IS HERE TO HELP DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Tel. 613-342-9522 • Toll Free: 1-800-267-4408 • Email: info@steveclarkmpp.com • Web: www.steveclarkmpp.com March 25, 2020

5

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

COVID-19

Information for North Grenville Residents

We are all in this together.

How the Municipality of North Grenville is responding to Coronavirus: For regular and up to date information visit our dedicated webpage: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus. As of March 17, 2020 the North Grenville Municipal office remains CLOSED to the public. Essential services and operations are available by appointment only. For questions and inquiries please email general@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-258-9569.

For Businesses:

The North Grenville Economic Development Team has put together a dedicated webpage for businesses including helpful links and resources for financing, advice, and other programs: www.InvestNorthGrenville.ca/covid19

Quick facts for residents of North Grenville: ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►

Essential Services will continue (fire, road maintenance, water and sewer services, waste collection and recycling) Building permits, inspections and planning applications are available by request Property tax and permit payments can be made via our website While property taxes are still due by March 31st, interest payments and late penalties will not be applied until May 1st All Municipal Advisory Committee meetings and public meetings have been cancelled Council meetings will continue and residents are encouraged to watch online Kemptville Campus Education and Administration Offices remain closed to the public The Waste Transfer Station remains open however, residents are encouraged to use curbside collection for garbage and recycling. Bag Tags are available for purchase at the following locations: B&H Your Community Grocer Giant Tiger, Kemptville Kemptville Home Hardware Shopper’s Drug Mart, Kemptville Shelley’s Kitchen (Heckston)

Jonsson’s Your Independent Grocer Canadian Tire, Kemptville MacEwan Gas Station Circle K Convenience Store

Well Water Testing: As of March 23, 2020, well water testing bottles can be picked up and samples can be dropped off at a temporary location at 50 Empress Drive in Victoria Park in Kemptville. There will be a cooler on the porch (This is a residence - do not go to the door). If you have questions about safe drinking water, call 1-800-660-5853 or visit www.healthunit.org/well-water-sampling.

If you need to seek health care for COVID-19: ► A Self-Assessment Tool available at: www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus. ► Telehealth Ontario at: 1-866-797-0000 (24/7) the Health Unit at 1-800-660-5853 to be screened. ► Call your primary care provider - they may provide virtual assessment by phone or other technology.

Key links for more information: ► Ontario Ministry of Health: www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus ► Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Public Health: healthunit.org/coronavirus ► Health Canada: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus March 25, 2020

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Business profile

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Changes to Clinical Services at WDMH

As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, Winchester District Memorial Hospital is taking further measures to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff. In line with guidance from the Ministry of Health, WDMH is reducing the number of non-urgent tests, procedures and surgeries.

Urgent care, such as Emergency Department services and cancer care, will continue to be provided. Examples of services that will be postponed include ambulatory clinics, scopes and minor surgical procedures in the operating room, and non-essential diagnostic imaging procedures.

“We are responding to this directive in a safe and appropriate manner,” notes Cholly Boland, CEO. “Physicians at WDMH are reviewing each patient’s situation to ensure we reduce elective procedures and nonemergency services through a phased approach,” adds Dr. Brian Devin, Chief of Staff.

Tests, procedures and surgeries to be postponed will be selected on a set of clear criteria to carefully consider the healthcare needs of patients while maintaining their safety.

Hospital and physician office staff are in the process of notifying patients and will ensure that they have all the information they need regarding their care.

Reducing non-urgent care ensures that we are ready to take on potential COVID-19 cases, as the situation continues to evolve.

34 Years of Caring

by Jane Adams June 14, 1986 was a great day for Wanda Douma. It was her wedding day and the day she found out she had a new job at Winchester District Memorial Hospital. “My Dad took the call, because I was getting my hair done,” laughs Wanda.

“He told them ‘Sure she’ll take the job, but she needs a week off first’!”

Thirty-four years later, Wanda has retired from WDMH and says she is looking forward to taking it easy, travelling, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Wanda has seen big changes during her three decades of caring.

“When I first started, you might light a patient’s cigarette.

Your nurse’s cap always pulled your hair out, and you were evaluated on how well your uniform was pressed. Today, the patients are more acute and there is much more technology to care for them.”

Another big part of her job has been helping to train the next generation of caregivers. “We have amazing teaching programs with young students who are exceptional. In fact, a lot of students request WDMH because of its reputation.”

Wanda says her biggest enjoyment at WDMH has been working with her colleagues. “I loved them!” she says. Of course, she might be biased about one. Wanda’s daughter, Kaitlyn, now works at WDMH and they had the pleasure of working together for a short time. The caring continues!

Best wishes Wanda!

If you would like to provide comments or suggestions about hospital services, please contact Cholly Boland, President and CEO, Winchester District Memorial Hospital at 613.774.1049 or by email at cboland@wdmh.on.ca.

March 25, 2020

The Voice of North Grenville

Health Unit encourages IMPORTANT NOTICE for social distancing in LGL Merrickville-Wolford: Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, Dr. Tam, gave COVID-19

the following update this week. “We are in a fairly critical period. The rate of infection in Canada is increasing and the effort to slow the spread of the virus to give health systems a fighting chance to be able to treat it must be heightened immediately. Canadians should not gather in groups …and should stay home entirely as much as possible”.

The approach Dr. Tam is talking about is called “flattening the curve”. This means that we slow down the transmission of the virus among people so that there are fewer cases at a time. This will ensure the health care system will be able to cope with people who become very ill and require hospitalization. About 15% of those who become ill with COVID-19 will have severe disease requiring hospitalization. People at highest risk of severe disease are older and have chronic disease like heart disease or diabetes.

The COVID-19 virus is spread through droplets from a cough or sneeze that can travel about 6 feet, and can survive for some time on hard surfaces, so it is essential that everyone practices good respiratory etiquette, and frequently washes common surfaces. “Now is the time for everyone to practice social distancing (see www. healthuni.org/coronavirus ) to decrease the risk of spread of the virus on our communities” according to Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health, Leeds, Grenville ad Lanark District Health Unit.

Within this context, as of March 23, 2020, all offices and service sites of the Health Unit will be closed to walk-in public. We are doing this as an effort to reduce social interaction between people. “The 1-800-6605853 number will continue and several lines and staff have been added to help take your calls.” reports Dr. Stewart. There will be a listing of the service changes due to COVID-19 response on our website on Monday.

Everyone can contribute to social distancing; stay home when sick with mild illness. People who have travelled internationally, including the States, should self-isolate for 14 days after arrival in the country and watch for symptoms of cough, fever or shortness of breath. If these symptoms are mild then people can stay at home until 24 hours after symptoms entirely resolve and the 14 day travel self-isolation period is up.

Cancel gatherings, especially with vulnerable residents, including seniors and people with pre-existing health conditions. Limit, postpone or cancel small social gatherings if you can, connect with friends by phone or online, no parties , keep children away from group settings including indoor play dates with other children.

Cancel non-essential trips and consider if outings are necessary. For essential trips (e.g. groceries, work): Sanitize or wash your hands when entering and exiting buildings. Avoid long lineups - use tap to pay rather than handling money.

When taking public transit, avoid prolonged close contact with others. Travel during non-peak hours.

Avoid visits to care facilities: protect vulnerable family members by avoiding visits to long-term care homes, retirement homes and other care settings unless it is absolutely essential.

While we go through this time of intense social distancing, it is important to stay physically active: go for walks or exercise outdoors; do yoga or aerobics at home.

Keep a distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from others and stay home when sick. Greet others with a wave, a bow or a nod (in place of handshakes or hugs). After going outside, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Consider alternative ways to work: work from home, if feasible. Facilitate virtual meetings (video or teleconferencing).

As this is an evolving situation, we continue to remind people of the importance of using credible sources to stay informed, and encourage others to do the same. We continue to update our website frequently as new information is confirmed. www.healthunit.org/ coronavirus.

Connect with LGLhealthunit on Facebook and Twitter for important public health messages and updates.

8

Please note that the Village of Merrickville-Wolford has established emergency plans and processes to monitor and address the COVID-19/Coronavirus.

The Village’s Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) met on March 13 and March 16, 2020 to incorporate proactive measures to limit the spread of the virus within the Village and to protect our residents, businesses, visitors and staff.

Currently, there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 in the Village and an Emergency has not been declared at this time.

At this time, the Village advises the following: The Village Office is closed to the public until further notice. Operations will continue and residents are encouraged to contact Village Staff by email, regular mail, or by telephone at 613-269-4791. Further contact information is available on our website at www. merrickville-wolford.ca.

All municipal facilities, including the Merrickville Community Centre, Eastons Corners Centennial Hall, and the Merrickville Public Library are closed until further notice.

All meetings of Village Committees and Local Boards have been cancelled until further notice.

The Village is requesting the public’s assistance in reducing the spread of the virus, as follows: Please cancel public gatherings until further notice Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just washed your hands with soap Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or into your arm, not your hands If possible, stay home if you are sick - If possible, stay home from work/school if sick (as always, if any concerns, seek medical attention) Avoid visiting people in hospitals or long-term care centres if you are sick Do not share personal items that come into contact with saliva such as toothbrushes, eating utensils, drinks, water bottles, and towels Message from Mayor Struthers: “During these difficult times, it is important for all members of our community to work together to help reduce the spread of this dangerous virus. As always, the health and safety of our residents, visitors, businesses and municipal staff is the Village’s first priority.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your co-operation and understanding during this time.”

Message from Doug Robertson, CAO/Clerk/Director, Economic Development and Chair, Municipal Emergency Control Group: “The COVID-19 situation is evolving quickly and the Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) has taken quick and effective action in order to respond and mitigate this pandemic within the Village. Staff are working hard to maintain service levels during this challenging period and we appreciate the community’s support. The MECG will continue to diligently monitor the situation and implement measures that are conducive to protecting the public.”

For further information on what you can do to limit the spread of COVID-19, please visit the following helpful links for more information: Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit: healthunit.org/coronavirus/.

Ontario Ministry of Health: www.ontario.ca/ page/2019-novel-coronavirus.

Health Canada: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/ diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html.

Government of Canada: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/reportspublications/responding-stressful-events/taking-careourselves-families-communities.html.

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The North Grenville Times

Did Red Squirrels invent Sugaring?

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Of the highest quality 6. Alumnus 10. Gas or petrol 14. Andean animal 15. Disabled 16. River of Spain 17. Dim 18. Notion 19. Unit of bread 20. Genius 22. Not first 23. Russian parliament 24. Gives emotion to 26. Parsley or sage 30. Mesh 31. At this time 32. Smell 33. Angers 35. Mentally prepare 39. Dissolution of a marriage

41. Coastal 43. Shorthand 44. Sandwich shop 46. Press 47. Rechewed food 49. 59 in Roman numerals 50. Church benches 51. Type of oil well 54. Breezed through 56. Against 57. Informative 63. Encircle 64. Allies' foe 65. Worth 66. Decorative case 67. Short skirt 68. Drome 69. Collections 70. Fastens 71. Blots

by Dr. Fred Schueler Fragile Inheritance Natural History In 1974, James Pendergast of Merrickville was upbraided by fellow archaeologists for suggesting that an ash-rich pre-contact Iroquoian site in Glengarry County had been a sugaring camp. The objecting scholars said that, since without iron pots boiling sap down to sugar was impossible, the boiling of Maple sap must have been a post-contact invention. Pendergast combed the reports of the earliest French explorers for accounts of interactions with sap and sugar. He noted that each indigenous language had their own words for the process, documented the feasibility of boiling in pottery and bark vessels, and collected all the early accounts of origin stories that he could find. He also trolled the European literature and showed that before North American sugaring was reported, Europeans had no idea about the sweetness of Maple sap, and that there was a bit of an European sugaring craze once they'd learned of it. I was startled by this transatlantic conundrum as a teenager, when the headmaster of my school was successfully tapping the Norway Maples on the campus, since at that point I thought only Sugar Maples had usable sap.

Freezing concentrates the sugar just as well as boiling – when we don't have time to boil, we put buckets in the freezer and remove the ice. Before metal pots were introduced, First Nations folk concentrated sap by pouring it into shallow bark trays and exposing it to the sky on cold nights, then removing the ice. The neighbour who taught us about freezing sap has a story about an old fellow who used to help her, who spent one whole day grumbling about all the sap ice she'd thrown away after a cold night, and then was amazed at how quickly it had boiled down to syrup.

DOWN 1. Skid row 2. Forearm bone 3. Friends 4. Send forth 5. Deserved 6. Gleamed 7. Emit 8. So be it 9. Benumb 10. Companionship 11. Submarine 12. Delete 13. Attics 21. Anagram of "Incur" 25. Swabs 26. Boxes for bricks 27. Modify 28. Wander 29. A respiratory disease 34. A lung disease 36. Bygone era 37. Gloat 38. Female chickens 40. Debauchee 42. Vetoes 45. Pertaining to cobra-like snakes 48. Imagined 51. Measuring instruments 52. Come together 53. Swagger 55. Stars on stage 58. 22 in Roman numerals 59. Canvas 60. Margarine 61. Litter's littlest 62. Not nays

Medium

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The Voice of North Grenville

The problem with Pendergast’s retrieval of early French accounts of sugaring was that there was no mention of solid sugar. Early explorers were offered "...a sweet and very pleasant liquor," "...a juice, sweet as honey or as sugar", and "a beverage... the colour of Spanish wine... [with] a sweetness which renders it of very good taste," which they called sap, but which must have been considerably concentrated.

In 1989, Patrick J. Munson experimented with aboriginal technology and reevaluated vocabularies, oral traditions, and early historic documents to conclude that while maple syrup was produced prehistorically, maple sugar was not made before the introduction of metal kettles. He suggests that because sap runs in "hungry months" before other foods were available, syrup production might have been a sporadic activity, carried out mostly in years when stored foods were inadequate, so that the earliest Europeans would have had few opportunities to observe it. One of the methods of boiling was putting hot rocks from a fire into the liquid, and he found that while this would make syrup, the syrup caramelized and charred on the rocks before it reached the point of being sugar. The higher temperatures of boiling to reach sugar would have stressed bark and pottery containers, and if the sugar is to be granular, it must be stirred and scraped in a way that would have been difficult in aboriginal vessels.

How was it learned that sap was a sweet? Only when we know it to be sweet, do we deliberately taste the evaporated drips from broken twigs that fall onto our parked car. In many of the origin stories that Pendergast assembled, it is told that the sap had been very sweet at first and then became realistically dilute, as a characteristic folk-tale punishment, such as this Menominee legend col-

lected in 1891: "One day Nokomis, the grandmother of Manabush was in the forest and accidentally cut the bark of a tree. Seeing that a thick syrup exuded from the cut, she put her finger to the substance, and upon tasting it found it to be very sweet and agreeable. She then gave some of it to her grandson, Manabush, who liked it very much, but thought that if the syrup ran from the trees in such a state it would cause idleness among women. He then told Nakomis that in order to give his aunts employment and keep them from idleness he would dilute the thick sap whereupon he took a vessel of water and poured it over the tops of the trees, and thus reduced the sap to its present consistency."

But why did Europeans not notice this sweetness?

When you’re asking about differences between Eurasia and North America, it’s often helpful to consider our feisty and dynamic Red Squirrel, Tamiasciurus hudsonicus.

Many of the trees we tap are young and have wide low branches, on which we often see little cuts in the bark, with sap running down from them. New England biologist Bernd Heinrich noticed these cuts in a mixed stand of young hardwoods in western Maine, and showed that they were bites made by Red Squirrels. He calculated that it would not have benefited the Squirrels' metabolism to drink the dilute unevaporated sap, and found that the squirrels came back later to lick up the sticky drips after most of the water had evaporated.

So when you’re in the bush gathering sap, and Red Squirrels are lashing their tails and swearing at you, remember that they’re the originators of your art… and then, if you’re using plastic sap tubing and plastic spiles, you can swear back at them for the way they’ve bitten holes in your equipment.

Puzzled over Real Estate.....Give us a call ** Broker

March 25, 2020

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SERVICES

The Voice of North Grenville

email classifieds@ngtimes.ca for pricing

R&T PLUMBING & RENOVATIONS

Specializing in Water Treatment, Wells, Pumps, Bathroom/Kitchen/Laundry Renos, Plumbing, Foundation and Septic Repairs Affordable payment plans available Admin@rtrenovations.ca 613 558 5942

DEEP WATER AQUAFIT CLASSES Kars Call 613 826 3351 for available class times

RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repair.

Call George at 613 462 7637

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER Commercial and Residential Free Estimates 613 276 4583

HANDYMAN SERVICES Call Bill 613 774 2922

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Slipper chair - excellent condition $50. Barrymore sofa - excellent condition $400.

613-269-7983 Quality Couch & Loveseat. V. good condition. Beige/Grey, subtle floral fabric. 4 pillows, & arm covers. Non smokers, no pets., 613-258-1932 $650. Firm.

Black & Decker bread machine $20. 613 258 4384 HP902XL ink pkg. Open but never used, printer died. $50, 613 258 4384.

For Sale 98 Harrowsmith magazines in pristine condition, 1977 to 1995, $100 call 613 269-3567.

Michael Hill Infinity Bangle valued at $400 asking $200 e-mail Maya @ maya_ramsay2499@hotmail.com

2 BABY GATES, 1 BATH TUB, PLAYPEN IN CARRYING CASE EXCELLENT CONDITION 613 859 4644

Firewood, hardwood, 3 cords/load, $110/cord.

Call Peter 613 913 0810

Looking to Rent Farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

PARTLY USED TONERS FOR HP COLOUR LASERJET 1600.

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5 PIECE PINE BEDROOM SUITE, FITS QUEEN OR DOUBLE. $200. CALL CAROL AT 613-541-1362 CARTON OF 10 48" 34W, FLUORESCENT LAMPS. 20.00, VE3MHM@SYMPATICO KODAK Z1015IS DIGITAL CAMERA. EXCELLENT CONDITION. $100. NEW $300. 613-258-3596 TWO INFLATABLE AIR MATTRESSES, 76IN X56 X8 AND 72 X35 X14 IDEAL FOR UNEXPECTED GUESTS OR CAMPING. BARELY USED $30 AND $25 RESPECTIVELY CALL BILL 613 258 6544

Commercial Property in Kemptville, corner of Prescott & Clothier. Call Mark at 613.620.3868

Mixed seasoned firewood for FOUND sale, all hardwood, $110/3 3 cord minimum delivered, Jon Set of keys found near 125 prescott stree. call 215 0651 613-227-3650 Wheelchair Fuse5.0 with a tilt/Roho cushion. Call 613567-8533 or leave message.

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Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 T:5" Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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Paid for by the Government of Ontario

10

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The Voice of North Grenville

Financial Forum 2020 The Keys to a Happy Retirement are Family, Friends & Guaranteed Retirement Income!

The success of your retirement will depend on two questions; 1. How much Guaranteed Lifetime Income do you have?

2. Have you taken the Key Retirement Risks off the table?

Robert S. Walker, CPA, CA Bradley Mehlman CPA Dinah Boal Crystal Lang Stephanie Turcotte email: info@wapc.ca

Kemptville Office: 2 - 4 Industrial Rd, South Gower Business Park T: 613.258.3282 Prescott Office: 304-235 Water St. W. T: 613.925.3535

The Society of Actuaries has helped identify 18 risks we may face in retirement. Inflation, elder abuse, sequence of returns, increased taxation and longevity are just a few.

Many of us are living longer and longevity is proven to be the greatest risk, it is a risk multiplier of all other risks. The longer we live, the more likely the market will crash, inflation will decimate purchasing power, the more likely we will need long term care, and the longer we live the more likely we will take out too much money. If a person retires at 65 and dies at age 68 none of this matters, however if a retiree lives to age 75 - 85 - 95 or beyond, it is imperative that the risk of longevity be taken seriously.

website: www.wapc.ca

Life’s brighter under the sun

Only Guaranteed Lifetime Income will mitigate longevity risk. RRIF income, mutual funds, real estate, GICs, stocks, bonds and segregated funds cannot do it! To retire successfully and cover your basic living expenses you must have Guaranteed Lifetime Income in your portfolio.

Don’t let low interest rates, stock market volatility, a market crash or other risks ruin your retirement. Living longer should be something we celebrate, not worry about.

The days just seem full of warmth when you have the peace of mind lifetime financial security brings. We can help you, at home or at work, with retirement plans and investments, benefits, life and health insurance, and

Economist Tom Hegna, offers these four simple steps to a successful retirement:

saving for your child’s education. That means a brighter outlook for everyone under the sun.

1. Cover your basic living expenses with Guaranteed Lifetime Income.

These will be your regular paycheques.

2. Optimize the rest of your portfolio to protect you against inflation and provide you with retirement playcheques. Take profits and invest in more Guaranteed Lifetime Income.

3. You must have a plan for long term care! No retirement plan is complete without it.

4. Plan an efficient way to pass your estate on to your beneficiaries with a well crafted estate plan that will reduce costs and taxes.

Bryonie Baxter*

Tel: 613-258-2939 Cell: 613 878 1367 bryonie.baxter@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/bryonie.baxter 222 Prescott Street, 2nd Floor Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

To learn all of your Retirement Income Options and Estate Planning needs may seem like a daunting task, but it is made easier when you are assisted by a Licensed Advisor who has your best interest at heart and is focused on providing specific solutions in the area of Retirement Income and Estate Planning.

*Mutual funds distributed by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2018.

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The North Grenville Times

How the Coronavirus cut my trip short

by Hilary Thomson On March 6 I left Ottawa on the adventure of lifetime.

I, and a few other people from North Grenville, were going to meet up in Nepal and India to practice yoga and go hiking in the foothills of the Himalayas.

When I left Canada, I knew about the Coronavirus and was intent on being cautious, especially during my travels. I packed extra antibacterial wipes, lots of hand sanitizer, and even a few face masks, just to be on the safe side. When I booked my flights, I purposefully chose not to go through mainland China in order to avoid the virus’ epicentre and questioning when I was trying to get into Nepal and India.

My travels to Nepal were relatively uneventful. There were lots of people wearing masks, but as long as you weren’t coming from countries where the virus was prevalent, there were very few delays. I had my temperature taken twice, but was quickly waved through when it was normal.

My first few days in Ne-

pal were incredible. Every morning started out with sunrise yoga, a delicious breakfast and hiking in the foothills of the Himalayas. One morning we got up at 4:30 am to go watch the sunrise over the mountains and trek back to the homestay, stopping for breakfast and a swim in a jungle waterfall. The whole experience was magical and one that I will never forget.

However, as time went on, we started getting more and more alarming messages from people back home. At first we laughed at the memes that were circulating on social media about the country running out of toilet paper. We rolled our eyes as we watched the western world go into panic mode, happy that we were removed from the mass hysteria that seemed to be taking over back home.

The first major hiccup in the trip happened about half-way through. We were supposed to spend a week in Nepal and then head to an ashram in India for the second half of our trip. Unfortunately, a couple days before we were supposed to go to India, they suspended all tourist visas due to COVID-19. Our flights weren’t cancelled, but, if we went, we wouldn’t be able to enter the country. I was disappointed, but our hosts in Nepal were happy to have us stay another week. Our flights home were from Kathmandu anyway, so it looked like it would all work out. More

yoga, hiking and delicious food surrounded by good friends was OK with me!

Unfortunately, as the days wore on, tensions back in Canada continued to climb.

By the end of the first week, the first member of our group decided to head home. Not wanting to buy into the hysteria, the rest of us decided to stick to our original plan and stay another week. I wasn’t ready for my trip to be cut short, especially if it wasn’t necessary.

But then it came. The message from the Prime Minister for all travellers to head home asap while there were “still commercial flights available.”

I started getting messages from my family begging me to get a flight back as soon as I could. I fought it at first, thinking they were being crazy. It was easy to discount what they were saying while I was living somewhat isolated from it all in a small town in Nepal.

I was having such a wonderful time, and I didn’t want to give it all up for the uncertainty that came with travelling home during a pandemic. I felt safe in Nepal, while the rest of the world seemed to be going crazy.

In the end, I agreed to come home and my husband booked me a flight for that evening. I packed quickly and said goodbye to my host family and travel buddies. I cried all the way to the airport. I was so sad to leave, but also terrified that I would get stuck in

The Voice of North Grenville

transit. What if Canada closed its borders while I was on my long trip home? What if I got sick? There were so many unknowns, but I knew I just had to put one foot in front of the other and keep praying that I would make it home safely and in good health.

Luckily, my trip home was uneventful. I had a 12-hour layover in Hong Kong, where almost everyone was wearing masks. I had my temperature taken as soon as I got off the airplane and ventured into the main area where I had to wait for my flight to Toronto.

I used almost a full bottle of hand sanitizer, and washed my hands thoroughly every time I went to the washroom.

I watched as more and more flights got cancelled, hoping that mine wouldn’t be one of them.

In what seemed like a miracle, I got on my flight to Toronto. The only delay was when we got to Toronto and had to wait on the tarmac for two hours because they were only unloading one plane at a time so they could mitigate crowds. However, once I got off the plane, I was surprised at how little screening there was. Before we got to immigration, there were two airport

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officials yelling at us, asking if we had a fever or cough, but there was no one there to take our temperature or assess us.

We also had to answer questions about our health at the immigration kiosks, and we were handed a pamphlet by the border security agents to tell us what to do if we did start to feel sick. This seemed strange to me, as I was expecting much more scrutiny, especially as I was coming from Nepal via Hong Kong.

I was relieved that it was as easy as it was, but it was also a bit unnerving. Hopefully, all my fellow travellers will be heeding the advice of the government and self isolating for 14 days to make sure they don’t have the virus.

I am now well into my

second week of self quarantine. I’m trying to create a routine and keep busy to avoid going stir crazy, but staying home has not been easy.

Thank goodness for the phone and internet that has allowed me to keep working and in contact with colleagues, family and friends. While I miss Nepal, I am happy to be home with my family during these strange and uncertain times.

I am almost done my 14 days of quarantine, but who knows how long this period of social distancing will last? I am trying to keep my spirits up and take it one day at a time. I think that’s all any of us can do right now.

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* B a s e d o n t h e O t t a w a R e a l E s t a t e B o a r d , R o y a l L e P a g e Te a m R e a l t y, B r o k e r a g e h a s b e e n n u m b e r o n e f o r b o t h d o l l a r v o l u m e g e n e r a t e d a n d t h e h i g h e s t number of unit sales for each consecutive year from 2005 to present.

March 25, 2020

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