Issue 17 2021 May 5 NG Times

WE ARE OPEN by appointment only

Please call or email us to book your personalized appointment today

613.258.2700

Kemptville Eye Exam Clinic

info@laurieropticalkemptville.com

Kemptville Mall

www.laurieropticalkemptville.com

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

The Voice of North Grenville

Vol. 9 No. 17

May 5 , 2021

KDH Auxiliary cancels Hey Day

Photo provided by Jolene Stover

by Hilary Thomson The Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) Auxiliary is sad to announce that their annual Hey Day fundraiser will be cancelled for the second year in a row.

This year would have been the Auxiliary's 61st Hey Day. The first one was held in the spring of 1960, before the hospital opened its doors in June of the same year. The event is the KDH

Auxiliary's major fundraising effort. All the money raised at Hey Day goes towards the purchase of vital equipment for the KDH. Equipment such as pain pumps, an ECG machine, defibrillator/ monitor, warming blankets, a patient lift and smart beds just to name a few, are used to enhance patient care.

Since its inception in 1959, the Auxiliary members have contributed 14,500 annual volunteer hours to our

local hospital. Through their fundraising efforts, the Auxiliary has also contributed almost $2 million to support the KDH in providing quality community healthcare.

For the many newcomers to the community, Hey Day is a giant community garage sale held on the first weekend in June at the North Grenville Curling Club. It involves almost 300 volunteers and 1400 hours to take in donations, sort them and get it set up.

Many community members look forward to the event every year, saving up their used items for donation and taking advantage of the great deals the sale has to offer. There is often a line up to get in when they open their doors on Friday evening, and the event draws thousands of people to Kemptville every year. The last Hey Day, held in 2019, raised almost $38,000 in support of KDH. Jolene Stover has been organizing Hey Day since 2015 and says she loves the excitement and hustle and bustle of bringing the event to life. "It's just so exciting," she says. "To see all the volunteers, everybody giving so much. They work so hard, but they have so much fun."

COVID-19 has definitely changed the Auxiliary's fundraising efforts, but they continue working hard at finding ways to safely support the hospital. Jolene says they will keep the community of North Grenville informed of all fundraising events as they roll out, including one in June.

Last fall, with the support of Jim and Judy Beveridge of B&H and their amazing staff, $6500 was raised through a check out charity campaign.

The Auxiliary's goal for 2021 is to keep the idea of Hey Day top of mind for the community as they hope to hold the event again once it is safe to gather in large groups. "As soon as we can be together again, hopefully in 2022," Jolene says.

April 29 - May 26

BUY ANY 2 QUALIFYING KITCHEN APPLIANCES OR WASHER AND DRYER PAIR,

SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $100*

BUY ANY 3 QUALIFYING KITCHEN APPLIANCES

BUY MORE SAVE MORE

*See in-store sales associate for instant savings details and list of available qualifying models

SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $300* PLACE YOUR ORDER:

By calling: 613-258-9333 or

By Email: furniture@kbchome.ca We are open 7 days a week!

ACSeason isAround theCorner

And we are, too.

613.258.7173

SauveHeating.ca

Industry Leader in Diesel Performance Truck and Equipment Maintenance & Repair

The North Grenville Times

Help Support Your Local Businesses

The Voice of North Grenville

Wondering how to look after an estate?

What to do with extra money since you can’t go anywhere?

How to get ahead?

SHOP LOCALLY

Your turn is coming soon.

Partnership brings clean water to 1,000 children in Malawi

Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine plan is helping to stop the spread and save lives.

Thousands of people across the province are getting vaccinated every day.

As vaccinations continue, we need to stay the course to protect those we love. Wear a mask.

Wash your hands. Keep your distance.

Find out when, where and how to get vaccinated at ontario.ca/covidvaccineplan or call 1-888-999-6488 for assistance in more than 300 languages.

Paid for by the Government of Ontario

May 5, 2021

2

Photo provided by Ryan’s Well Foundation: Ryan Hreljac Ryan Hreljac was a my dream of clean water 6-year-old boy determined for an African school in to build a well in Uganda need, and it was the team after learning in school at CPAR that made that about the challenges of dream a reality. We are kids his age who didn't so fortunate to have dehave access to clean, safe veloped and nurtured a drinking water, and the relationship with CPAR, devastating impact on which has in turn helped Ryan's Well Foundation their health.

Canadian Physicians grow; we have now manfor Aid and Relief (CPAR) aged to provide clean wais a charity dedicated to ter and sanitation to over improving the health and 1.1 million people. We're lives of the people of Af- ecstatic that we are able to rica, and was the builder continue our partnership of what would become with CPAR through the Green Schools Initiative Ryan's first well.

Today, more than 20 in Malawi, which will years later, Ryan and the provide even more people foundation he created, with clean water."

Under the agreement Ryan's Well Foundation, are reuniting with CPAR announced last week, the to bring water, sanitation, Ryan's Well Foundation is and hygiene to over 1,000 contributing its funds and school children in Malawi, expertise for the construcas part of CPAR's Green tion of four 30,000-litre rainwater harvesting tanks Schools Project.

"There's something for four primary schools, inspiring about the sym- 40 latrine stances, and metry of this partnership," sanitation and hygiene says CPAR Executive Di- education for the teachers rector, Kathrina Loeffler. and staff at three primary "CPAR was thrilled to ful- schools.

Green Schools is a fill a young boy's goal to bring drinking water to the project to not only bring children in Uganda, and clean, safe water to schools to partner today to benefit in rural Malawi, but it also so many more children in teaches children about Malawi is really the story sustainable agriculture of our mutual commitment and includes the establishto give kids both health ment of community and school gardens - aided and hope."

"Twenty-two years by water from the tanks. ago," said Ryan Hreljac, Ryan's Well Foundation is Ryan's Well Foundation focused on the water and Founder and Executive sanitation elements of the Director, "the local com- project and has expanded munity rallied around its scope by providing a

much-needed element that had been missing - latrines.

Only 25% of schools in Malawi meet the recommended standard for provision of latrines, and three schools will be upgraded as part of the partnership.

Ryan's Well Foundation joins the Blossom Foundation and the ChariTree Foundation in supporting the Green Schools Project.

MALAWI FACTS AT A GLANCE: -1.7 million people in Malawi don't have access to safe water, and nearly 10 million don't maintain adequate sanitation practices. (Malawi population: 16 million) -1,700 children perish every year due to preventable diarrheal diseases.

-Water and sanitationrelated diseases, such as diarrhea and malaria, remain the leading cause of death among children under age five.

-Only 54% of people living in Malawi's Kasungu District have access to safe drinking water.

-30% of the population in the Mangochi District lives without sanitation facilities, and practises open defecation.

-Fewer than a quarter of primary schools in Malawi meet the national standard of one latrine per 60 students.

-Only 4% of schools have hand-washing facilities. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Municipality will compete for Canada's Most Active Community The Municipality of North Grenville will compete for Canada's Most Active Community.

Initiated by the North Grenville Health, Fitness and Wellness Advisory Committee, the Municipality has registered in the ParticipACTION's Community Better Challenge and is encouraging residents to get out and get active for the month of June.

"This Challenge is a great way to get the community moving and bring us together (while staying safely apart) after a very long year," said Mayor Nancy Peckford. "And, as a bonus, we also have an opportunity to compete for the top prize of $100,000, and the title of being Canada's most active community."

The challenge is open to everyone, whether you are 8 or 80, of any age or ability. Individuals, organizations, schools, sport groups and even workplaces can all participate

and track their minutes (virtually). All individual and group physical activity counts.

"We know exercise and activity - whether it’s indoors or outdoors - is so important for our physical and mental health. Now, more than ever, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, we see this friendly competition as a fun and safe way for North Grenville residents to participate in a collective community goal," added Tanya Deans, Acting Chair of the Municipal Advisory Committee on Health, Wellness and Fitness.

By being active and logging your activities between June 1 - 30, 2021, North Grenville residents could help the community earn the title and win. Prize money would be used to improve municipal parks throughout North Grenville.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE: To participate, residents can download the free ParticipACTION app

partner with local community groups and businesses for this initiative. We know some of them will offer free lessons, classes or workshops to help you try something new," added Deputy Mayor McManaman.

The ParticipACTION Community Better Challenge is an annual event that gets Canadians across the country moving together. At the end of the 2021 challenge, one community will earn the top prize of $100,000 and title of being Canada's most active. In addition to the national winner, there will also be prizes for the most active community in each province and territory, as well as individual prizes from ParticipACTION for taking part.

For more information and to download the app visit: www.participaction. com/en-ca/programs/community-challenge

where they can track their physical activity minutes and contribute to their community's total minutes during the challenge period (June 1 - 30, 2021).

Active minutes can also be tracked on the ParticipACTION website (beginning June 1, 2021).

In addition, app users who track their minutes during the challenge will be entered into individual draws for prizes.

Active minutes can include activities such as: a ten-minute walk; a 30-minute bike ride; a virtual group exercise class; or even yard and garden work.

Every minute tracked during the month of June goes towards North Grenville's overall score.

"The Committee is working hard to help you find ways to get active, and we will share daily suggested activities," said Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman.

"We are also looking to

"We are open for your convenience during these troubled times" Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

WINTER CANCELLED SPRING IS HERE

BE PREPARED

We Service all Makes and Models 2525 Cty Rd 43 • 613 258 5800 www.43autoworks.com

Looking for nominations for "Asset Builders" Awards The Every Kid in our Communities (EKIOC) Coalition is looking for nominations of organizations, businesses, and individuals who make a difference in the lives of children and youth in Leeds and Grenville - in other words they build assets! These "asset builders" will be recognized during a Zoom ceremony on June 16, 2021.

The Every Kid Coalition is looking to identify organizations, businesses, and individuals who: • Show interest and invest time in children and youth • Inspire children and youth May 5, 2021

•

Provide support to children and youth • Give children and youth a voice • Introduce children and youth to new ideas and experiences • Advocate for children and youth "Every day, organizations and individuals in Leeds, Grenville influence the lives of young people in a positive way," explains Margaret Fancy, Coordinator of EKIOC "Our coalition wants to pay tribute to these 'asset builders'."

The deadline for nominations is May 19, 2021.

Nominations can be made by visiting the Asset Builder Nomina-

Book an appointment today!

tion Form on the Every Kid website, or by calling 613-340-8681 for a nomination form. Anyone seeking more information about the 2021 Recognition of Asset Builders Celebration can contact Marg Fancy at coordinator@ everykid.on.ca.

WE ARE OPEN!

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca 3

Book online at www.Pixeleyecare.ca OR by phone

613-258-7878

Direct Insurance Billing Available

Come in today and visualize your dreams!

115 Sanders St, Kemptville www.pixeleyecare.ca www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

May 5, 2021

4

The Voice of North Grenville

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Partnering to care for clients in the Community

Louis Coleman Submitted by Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health In Grade 12, Louise Coleman did a co-op placement at a housing program on Apple Street in Brockville. She started to meet clients coming in to pay their rent. “They were such interesting folks and nice people,” she recalls. “It was very clear to me what I wanted to do. I wanted to help others.”

Thirty years later, she is still

doing so with Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (LLGAMH).

After college, Louise joined the LLGAMH team and has been there for more than 32 years. She has worked in many areas, including supportive housing, group homes, case work, social recreation, and wellness programs.

“We’ve implemented so many wonderful programs

and have become a recoverybased agency. But there is always more to do,” she says.

Most recently, Louise has spearheaded a program to support clients with diabetes – helping them to better manage their disease and provide foot care. “We know there is a connection between physical health and mental health,” she explains. “We have many clients with mental health and addictions challenges who have also been diagnosed with diabetes. I knew we had to find a way to help.”

What began as a proposal to the LLGAMH Board of Directors has turned into a full-time role – and a great new partnership with Rideau Community Health Services, as well as Advanced Diabetic Foot Care Nurse, Lisa Mason.

Together, they are providing diabetic clinics for clients in need.

These are great fits and partnerships,” says Louise.

“They have learned so much about mental health and I have learned so much about diabetes. We are focusing on each client’s diabetes management.”

Clinics are being held several times a month. Clients meet by phone, virtually, or in-person with the whole team. Treatment support in-

cludes an overall check-in, medication review, insulin training, meal planning, and more. Clients can also be referred to other LLGAMH services if needed. Louise says it’s making a difference: “Once the diabetes is managed everything else gets better. Clients have a place to go if they are struggling or have low-sugar readings. And it’s saving clients a trip to the hospital for care.”

The program has recently been expanded to include a Foot Care Clinic, supported

by Advanced Diabetic Foot Care Nurse Lisa Mason. Lisa has a mobile foot clinic company and she wanted to give back to support LLGAMH clients. So she is working with LLGAMH to care for clients in need. Clients come to see Lisa and transportation is arranged if necessary.

“The wonderful thing is that we get to see these people in person. Many people are struggling, and this additional support is needed. It’s a great solution,” notes Louise. “I love my job and I get to work with wonderful people. I love coming to work every day!”

Thank you to the United Way of Leeds and Grenville for providing funding for this program.

The Voice of North Grenville

Class A licensed Mechanics Repairs to ALL Makes DOT & MTO Safety Inspections Fuel Injection, Electrical & A/C Specialists Complete Brake & Exhaust Service Tires & Batteries - Front End Suspension

THOMAS M. BYRNE Barrister and Solicitor

General Practice Corporate / Commercial Family Law Estates Real Estate Wills & Powers of Attorney tom@tmblaw.ca 613.258.1277 222 Prescott St., Kemptville

services

Joe Gauthier Master Electrician

613.802.4608

joe@oldschool-electric.ca

"No Job Too Small"

Highlights of United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Council Meeting The Counties Council has appointed Alison Tutak as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer for a two-month period. Ms. Tutak, who is the Counties’ Director of Community and Social Services, will serve until July 4. Current CAO, Andy Brown, is retiring May 6. Incoming CAO, Ray Callery begins his new role on July 5.

“I am honoured to have been asked to provide Interim CAO support to the Counties during this transition of leadership for our organization,” Ms. Tutak said. “I look forward to ensuring momentum and continuity in a number of our key initiatives,” she said.

Ms. Tutak has been with the United Counties for 29 years and has served as a Director for the past 11 years.

Updated report for Maple View Lodge expansion Council has received a progress report on moving the Maple View Lodge expansion project forward. A costing estimate based on preliminary conceptual designs, along with a set of components and expectations, was completed in early April. It has been reviewed by the Maple View Lodge Committee of Management who is overseeing the project and was presented to Counties Council.

The Class D estimate

Darren Dwyer

Certified utility arborist

DWYER

Tree Service

613.531.1544

TRIMMING & TREE REMOVAL FREE ESTIMATES . FULLY INSURED

May 5, 2021

came in at $51.7-million. The Counties had estimated last December the cost of construction to be $47.7-million.

When all costs are calculated, this represents a 6.3% overall increase for total capital project costs.

“This is a very important project we want to keep moving forward and within our time line,” said Counties CAO, Andy Brown, noting the expansion is set to open in early 2024.

The estimate provides an updated figure to be used for financial planning and budgeting. The tender will be the final determination of what the real costs of the new building will be. In the meantime, staff and the Project Managers Turner and Townsend will be looking at potential savings.

The Maple View Lodge project has been ongoing since the Province approved 132 additional beds two years ago. Since that time, the Project Manager has undertaken various technical studies for

the construction of a new home. They have engaged an architect and associated consultants under Hobin Architecture, have completed a feasibility study on whether to build one building or use two buildings, and have commenced the design and costing stages.

Non-union employees by-law Counties Council has passed a by-law establishing the terms and conditions of all non-union Counties officers and staff. The remuneration for non-union employees will see an increase of 1.75 per cent retroactive to January 1st. A compensation review has been completed, which could mean minor adjustments. All non-union employee benefits remain unchanged.

Warden’s remuneration increased following report Council voted in favour of adjusting the Warden’s base remuneration to a comparator median provided in a thirdparty report. This increases 5

Furnaces Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Boilers Gas Piping

613 867 3838

KemptvilleHeating.com

100% locally owned and operated the Warden’s remuneration by $3,500 (2020 rates). Gallagher Benefits Consulting found that the Warden's base remuneration was seven per cent off the median of eastern Ontario comparators. The median is $52,706, while the United Counties paid $49,206 in 2020.

Council voted to not increase regular council remuneration for 2021. They will remain at the 2020 level.

Upcoming meetings The Joint Services Committee

and more....

on Tuesday, May 4; The Committee of the Whole meeting is on Wednesday, May 5; The Maple View Lodge Committee of Management is on Thursday, May 6, The Accessibility Advisory Committee is on May 10, The Counties Council is on Thursday, May 20.

All regular meetings are held virtually and begin at 9 am.

They are live-streamed and can be viewed online.

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

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

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Ontario Woodlot Association AGM and Conference Kemptville Snowmobile tations was notable, in- tion was offered by Rob Club donates to Easter cluding a presentation by Keen, R.P.F and CEO Head Forester, Geraint of Forests Ontario. Rob Seals

Photo ZOOM screen shot Ben Porchuk, Forest Therapy Guide lands experts. There were 380 people who attended the conference which John Pineau, Executive Director, said received rave reviews.

The OWA was created in 1992 and has a history of navigating many changes over the decades, including the change to virtual conferencing.

The line-up of presen-

by Lorraine Rekmans This pandemic has changed the way we all do business, and the Ontario Woodlot Association (OWA) is no exception to this. The OWA held its AGM and Conference virtually this past week and featured a variety of presentations by wood-

Ron's

Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720

ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)

spoke about the Two-Billion tree program, which is a major climate change mitigation initiative by the federal government. There was a special student event that was designed to promote careers in forestry.

The conference topics included science and technology in woodlands, and a discussion on the social benefits that woodlands offer to communities.

No conference would be complete without a bit of fun, so the Canadian Ecology Centre also hosted a live-broadcast wolf-howl and owl hoot.

The live wolf howling and owl hooting took place over a half hour period from remote locations to try and attract a response from wolves and owls.

Sadly the wolves and owls were unavailable to answer that evening.

“Our Association has remained steady and strong during the pandemic, and we have in fact grown and strengthened in some respects, despite so many challenges,” said Paul Robertson.

The OWA Executive Committee is comprised of President, Paul Robertson, Vice-President, Art Shannon, Kerry Coleman, Dave Ferguson, and Don Willis.

The Board is comprised of 20 representatives from the various provincial chapters of OFA

Richards, who manages the Duchy of Cornwall woodlands in England.

The Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, John Yakabuski, offered congratulations to OWA on their conference and the 100th issue of the OWA publication, the Woodlander.

OWA President, Paul Robertson, said he was impressed and proud of the range and depth on issues that were offered in this year’s conference.

It was a, “stellar and solid lineup of presenters, and the themes are highly relevant to our membership’s diverse interests, and to what we are trying to accomplish with our on-going major projects,” said Paul.

The conference hosted three evenings of presentations and discussions.

The theme of this year’s conference was -The Opportunities and Options our Woodlands Give.

The Keynote presenta-

NEW DATES FOR B LKY ITEM COLLECTION

See

a for cles.c Grecy www.N

See

bulky large/

item

a for cles.c Grecy www.N

item

678

ation. g inform taggin

bulky large/

The new dates for Bulky Item collection will be June 14 - 18 and June 21 - 25, 2021. Leaf & Yard Waste collection remains the same.

12345

TAG EM Y IT TAG B LK EM Y IT B LK

12345

678

Due to the provincial Stay-at-Home Order and the North Grenville Municipal Centre being closed, the Municipality is moving the dates for Bulky Item collection. ation. g inform taggin

Due to the provincial Stay-at-Home Order and the North Grenville Municipal Centre being closed, the Municipality is moving the dates for Bulky Item Collection. The new dates for Bulky Item Collection will be June 14 – 18 and June 21 – 25, 2021. Leaf and Yard Waste Collection remains the same: May 31 - June 4 and June 7 - 11, 2021.

Residents are invited to take advantage of both collection weeks for each event – Bulky Item and Leaf and Yard waste.

While garbage bag tags are available for purchase at select vendors throughout North Grenville, bag

JUNE 2021 JUNE 2021

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

May 5, 2021

Mr Ian McLaughlin, Regional Director for Easter Seals, is pictured here accepting a cheque from Kemptville Snowmobile Klub for $2500. The snowmobile club has been supporting Easter Seals for almost 50 years with their annual SNOWARAMA fundraiser. However, due to the Covid-19 virus restrictions, SNOWARAMA could not be held this past February. The generosity of the club would not be stifled, so the club found other ways to raise this donation. They looks forward to hosting SNOWARAMA on the first Sunday in February 2022.

Freshly baked goods

Homemade frozen meals Pizza & subs LCBO/Beer Store convenience outlet

613-989-1323

Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-7pm Sat&Sun 7am-7pm 1738 County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario

Bulky item collection moved to June

For more information or to purchase your tags online, visit www.NGrecycles.ca.

Purchase in-person at the Municipal Centre once the Stay-at-Home Order is lifted.

Sunday

Ian McLaughlin, Regional Director Easter Seals

6

tags for Bulky Items and Leaf and Yard waste are only available for purchase online through the Municipality of North Grenville (and in person when the stay-at-home Order is lifted). Bulky Item tags are $12.50, with some items requiring multiple tags. If the item weighs over 80 pounds, it will require two bag tags, such as bookcases, couches, dressers, or mattresses. Appliances, hazardous waste, computers, or any scrap metal, are some of the items not accepted. Leaf and Yard tags are $1.00. Leaf and Yard waste may be contained in paper bags, bound bundles or reusable plastic contain-

ers. For more information, including what is and is not accepted in the collection events, visit: www.

NGrecycles.ca. If you have any questions, please contact public works at pw@ northgrenville.on.ca or 613-258-9569 Ext 133.

Help Support Your Local Businesses SHOP LOCALLY www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Charges laid as a result of anti-lockdown rally Four people have now been charged in relation to an illegal gathering in Kemptville.

On April 8, 2021, members from the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) attended a large gathering outside of the South Branch Bistro on Clothier Street East.

The OPP received numerous complaints, and it is believed that approximately 200 people were in attendance. The OPP attended along with personnel from the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Health Unit, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), and North Grenville By-Law Services.

As a result of the inves-

tigation, four individuals, including an organizer and the business, have been charged under the Reopening Ontario Act (ROA).

The OPP continues to support efforts to limit the transmission of COVID-19, including the governmentmandated shutdown and the Stay at Home Order. Actions are based on public health

advice from the Government's health table, as well as the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

The incident is still under investigation by the Grenville County OPP and more charges may be laid at a later date.

Help Support Your Local Businesses SHOP LOCALLY

Truck Drivers Needed

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Tackaberry Construction is a local, family run business, serving eastern Ontario since 1957. We offer competitive wages with group benefits.

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

We are currently looking for truck drivers with a D/Z or A/Z license to fill various seasonal positions in the Leeds and Grenville/Lanark area.

The successful candidates must have: • •

A Valid A/Z or D/Z driver’s license with a good driving record Experience with manual transmissions

If you are a self-starter, interested in working in a fast-paced environment, please submit your resume with references to: careers@tackaberryconstruction.com G. Tackaberry & Sons is an equal opportunity employer. We wish to thank all who apply for this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

HELP WANTED

Pro Desk Customer Support

Kemptville Building Centre (BMR) •

PLEASE CONTACT miriam.reader@kbchome.ca or 613-258-6000 ext. 238 for more information.

May 5, 2021

Are you looking to share the knowledge you’ve gained from your many, successful DIY projects?

• Have you recently retired, or thinking about retirement (perhaps early retirement?) and looking for a secondary income?

• Do you enjoy hardware stores, talking about lumber, tools, learning about the latest gadgets, etc.?

We are currently seeking a friendly and energetic individual who has a love for hardware stores and would enjoy helping customers find the things they need to help their projects succeed.

We are interested in applicants looking for either Full Time or Part Time employment.

We offer competitive wages, extended health and dental benefits, a deferred profitsharing plan, paid vacation and sick time.

Kemptville Building Centre (BMR) is an equal opportunity employer.

7

The Voice of North Grenville

Random acts of kindness have a big impact

Submitted by Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Mental Health and Addictions For more than a year, our local communities have been working hard to fight COVD-19. At the same time, they have also taken the time to support one another. At Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Mental Health and Addictions (LLGAMH), we are seeing the impact first-hand.

"We are so grateful for the generosity of our local communities," says CEO Patricia Kyle. "Every gift has a direct impact on the clients we work with."

There are many examples of kindness and we want to share just a few of them: In lieu of their annual Ladies Night, the Brockville Home Hardware hosted a special 'shop and save' campaign to ensure a safe COVID-19 shopping experience. They created 200 swag bags, loaded with free goodies, samples and coupons, available for a $10 donation. The bags sold out in eight days and raised $2,000 for LLGAMH! Store Manager Stephanie Chauvin says her team was happy to help: "In light of the circumstances, we felt it was more important than ever to support those who support our store. Everyone puts on a brave face and you don't necessarily know what they are going through. It's nice to give back."

The St. Lawrence Valley Correction and Treatment Centre - Secure Treatment Unit also had a plan to support LLGAMH clients in need. So they organized a collection drive with their staff. The results were impressive. Toiletries, hats and mittens and more were donated to both LLGAMH and Interval House. "Thank you to Social Worker Natasha Foster for leading the drive," says Patricia Kyle. "These donations go a long way to support our clients."

LLGAMH Board member Cait Maloney helped to ensure John Harris's random act of kindness had a ripple effect. John donated 700 granola bars through the Westport Area Food Bank and Kudrinko's Grocery Store in Westport. Some of the granola bars were distributed to LLGAMH clients in the region.

And finally, Loaves & Fishes and The Pier in Brockville deserve a salute for their ongoing support of LLGAMH clients. This dynamic team has been providing pre-bagged takeout lunches throughout the pandemic, including recent Easter dinners.

"There are so many wonderful stories like this, and we wanted to share just a few," sums up Patricia Kyle. "Random acts of kindness truly do make a different. Thank you to our local communities!"

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Greens call for national long-term care strategy

Health Unit reports upswing of Fentanyl-related overdoses in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark

by Hilary Thomson

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) is warning of a rise in Fentanyl-related overdoses in the region.

Although they don't have specific data for North Grenville, LGLDHU Harm Reduction Coordinator, Jennifer Adams, says it is definitely present in the community.

LGLDHU released a statement in April stating that there were 58 overdose reports in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark in the first three months of 2021, 86% of which involved Fentanyl. This is a marked increase from 2020 when they received only 16, with 87% involving Fentanyl in the same three months. The Office of the Chief Coroner has reported over 300 drugrelated deaths in Ontario, with 104 reported in the week of March 1-7 alone.

Carfentanil, which has been particularly prevalent in the area, is one of the most toxic analogues of Fentanyl. Some people seek it out specifically; but it is usually found laced in illicit substances like Cocaine or other opioids. Jennifer says it is very uncommon to find a drug that is not contaminated with some analogue of Fentanyl or other substances like benzodiazepines, which are highly addictive. "People aren't knowingly using it, or they think they're using one type of Fentanyl when it's actually another type of Fentanyl," Jennifer says. "That's why it becomes so dangerous.

It’s basically like Russian roulette. You have no idea how to dose for it, you have no idea how much, how often to use, so people are putting their lives at risk every single time they are using any sort of substance at this point."

Jennifer says drugs that may contain Fentanyl are very easy for people to access in the community right now, and that the industry is often linked to organized crime. People high up on the supply chain often include Fentanyl or other dangerous substances in their product because it produces a better high or is more addictive. "It goes down to business sense," she says. "Fentanyl mixed in with something else is going to get a stronger effect, so May 5, 2021

if one dealer is doing it and one's not, they're going to get more customers." Because these drugs are not regulated, Jennifer says there is also always the issue of crosscontamination. "They're using the same equipment to maybe prepare and package Cocaine as they are with Fentanyl, and so there's potential for cross-contamination. It's not necessarily purposeful, but it is happening."

Jennifer says the pandemic has definitely played a role in the number of overdoses skyrocketing in the region.

With increased isolation, Jennifer hears of and sees cases of people overdosing on Fentanyl multiple times a day. "I've been doing this for 11 years and this is the worst I've ever seen it," she says.

Jennifer notes it can be difficult to tell if someone is overdosing unless you know they have been doing drugs. Things like being unconscious, unresponsive, not breathing, not having a pulse or turning blue are all symptoms that can be present with other health conditions. The best thing to do if you think someone may be overdosing on any substance is to call 911. Jennifer says a naloxone kit should also be a standard part of a first aid kit in any home. "You never know, it could be your neighbour that might require it, an aunt, an uncle, your parents, your kids."

According to Jennifer, municipalities like North Grenville can help prevent Fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths by having honest conversations about the real impact of the drug in the

The Voice of North Grenville

by Lorraine Rekmans

community. The stigma and discrimination that goes on in community agencies and hospitals also needs to be addressed. "We need to bring people out of the underground substance world, because we know when we connect with people and we get people connected and retain them in service, their outcomes are so much better," she says.

If you are struggling with substance abuse and need support, Jennifer says the best thing to do is contact Change Health Care. Their methadone opioid clinics in Brockville, Smiths Falls and Carleton Place also offer wraparound care with counsellors, case managers, a nursing staff and physicians. "They all work for a harm reduction approach and it's very low barrier. It's walk-in, no appointments needed for access to the counsellors, myself, the case managers. It's very very low barrier. You come as you are."

Jennifer believes that decriminalizing drugs is definitely a piece of the puzzle when it comes to preventing overdoses and drug related deaths. She says the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police is also calling for decriminalization. "We need to start having these conversations about the war on drugs.

If we continue to push it underground and criminalize it, we're going to continue to deal with the deaths."

In the Auditor General of Ontario’s report on the issue of COVID-19 infections in long-term care facilities in Ontario, Bonnie Lysyk noted that any actions, “taken over the years have been insufficient to ensure that we would be better prepared as a province for the‘next time’.”

She noted that long-termcare homes were initially not partnered with hospitals or public health units to benefit from their expertise in infectious disease outbreaks, and that there was a lack of structured collaboration between different government bodies and agencies on issues such as infection prevention and control inspections.

Green Party of Canada Leader, Annamie Paul, responded to the report in a joint press conference with Green Party of Ontario Leader, Mike Schreine, calling for a national strategy on long-term care in Canada that would contain national standards for care and staffing.

They also called for an end to profit-making by government-funded long-term care facilities.

"For over a year now, Greens have been sounding the alarm on the tragic situation that has unfolded in Canada's LTC homes, and still the federal government has not provided a plan for national standards," said Annamie Paul.

"During this pandemic, we witnessed the unfolding of a humanitarian crisis, one that shamed Canada as the country with the worst record for COVID-19 deaths in LTC homes compared to other wealthy nations. Thousands of families, including my own, lost loved ones and we know that many of those deaths were preventable."

The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reported that between March 2020 and February 2021 more than 80,000 residents and staff members of LTC homes were infected with COVID-19, resulting in the deaths of 14,000 residents and close to 30 staff.

"Now is the moment for the federal government to collaborate with provincial and territorial governments to create a system that functions, one that ensures that all residents of LTC receive the care they need and deserve.

It's important to acknowledge that residents of LTC are not only the elderly; there are many others who find themselves in need of round-theclock support. For all those who lost loved ones, and for those who remain terrified for family members still in LTC, I say Enough! We must implement solutions now, not in a year from now."

"Yesterday's Ontario Auditor General's report highlights multiple failures within the LTC system that contributed to the avoidable humanitarian crisis that unfolded," said Mike Schreiner. "We owe it to elders and the staff who care for them to seize this moment to show that we are serious about caring for elders. This means not only creating national standards, but also investing in the staff who work in LTC."

Le�'� �e� ��ea����!

A�� y�� ��?

CURBSIDE PICK UP Tuesday to Saturday 12 - 4 pm

Easy ways to shop with TBC during the lockdown 1. Shop our new inventory from our online store. Click "shop now" from our website www.tbcconsign.com 2. Join us on Facebook for videos of our consignment clothing and footwear 3. Call us at 613-258-0166 and we will help you find what you need

8

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Revolutionizing the way kids learn to read

Submitted by the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario The Speech-Language Pathologists (S-LPs) at the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO) have been working board-wide to revolutionize the way CDSBEO educators teach word-level reading and spelling in the classroom.

Speech-Language Pathologists in the CDSBEO Department of Special Education shared their system-wide work on how they are revolutionizing the way CDSBEO educators teach reading.

Professional development has been delivered boardwide to train teachers about the science of reading and how the brain learns to read.

Currently, the Ontario Human Rights Commission is investigating reading instruction and intervention throughout the province through the Right to Read public inquiry. In Canada, Australia, Britain, and the USA, there is a push to align teaching practices with scientific research.

Given that oral language is the foundation to reading, Speech-Language Pathologists are uniquely qualified to lead the way in implementing exceptional teaching methods.

Speech-Language Pathologists Julie McDermid, April Hackett-Helmkay and Tiffany Kalsi presented information to the Board of Trustees on this initiative, including teaching teachers how the human brain learns to read and providing them with tools to align their practices with this science.

"Over the last year, our team has embarked on a journey in supportMay 5, 2021

ing the educators within the CDSBEO in aligning their classroom practices with the one way that the brain learns to read," began McDermid.

"Teachers leave teacher's college not knowing how to teach kids to read, and all of the research on the science of reading and how to teach reading has been buried deep in academic journals. Our mission is to share this information with all educators in our board. Because as Dr Pam Kastner says, every teacher deserves to know the science of reading, and every child deserves a teacher who knows it."

McDermid noted that the reason is because there are a lot of myths about how children learn to read, however children need purposeful and planned instruction to learn how to read.

"Reading is not natural. It is a human made alphabetic system and we must create the areas of the brain needed to read. This is done through connecting sounds to letters, and letters to sounds."

The team began by making changes to the assessment protocol so that it aligned with the way students learn to read. Assessment is still done with oral language; however, a more in-depth literacy portion was added which allowed them to see who

phonemic awareness, and the development of sound walls.

Once training was complete, the team moved forward with providing educators with the materials required to teach word level reading effectively.

"We decided to create materials that teachers could use immediately," noted Kalsi.

These resources included a phonemic awareness binder, as well as embedded mnemonics and an interactive sound wall tool for posting within classrooms. The team has also setup a Teams site which includes webinars, training videos, and additional resources for teachers.

In addition to working with the teachers within their school board, the team has recently created a Facebook page entitled The Reading Brain: Thinking critically about reading instruction. Their call to action is to help teachers across Canada and beyond to think critically about aligning their literacy instruction with the one way the brain learns to read.

t- me - n o e g r o F Herbs & Flowers

t

Tiffany Kalsi, Julie McDermid, April Hackett-Helmkay, Speech-Language Pathologists

is most at-risk for reading difficulties.

"This allowed us to identify who would need a little support, and who would need a lot of support to develop their reading brain," explained McDermid.

The assessment provides the information that parents, and educators need to guide instruction and intervention. Teachers can immediately put the recommendations into practice and see measurable growth in their students reading.

"The response has been overwhelming, as suddenly our most vulnerable students are starting to read. Many students were struggling to read, and word level reading was not being taught explicitly in our classrooms, and so began our journey of changing how word level reading is taught across our classrooms."

April Hackett-Helmkay noted that 40 percent of students would benefit from a structured approach to literacy in order to learn to read, while the other 60 percent require it as an essential component.

"It is essential to have structured literacy, and therefore teachers need to implement a structured approach. Our goal was to empower teachers to think critically about their teaching practices in order to align them with the one way that the brain learns to read."

Te a c h e r s r e c e i v e d training through a boardwide webinar series in the spring. The first session focused on the science of reading, teaching educators how the brain learns to read to guide instruction. This was followed up with webinars on thinking in sounds, which helped teachers to shift their focus from letters to sounds. Teachers then learned about high-frequency words,

Annuals, Hanging Baskets, Perennials, Veggies and Olde Fashion Tomatoes

Monday closed Tuesday to Friday 9am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 12 to 3pm 1920 Beach Rd. Oxford Mills, ON

claudiaollie@gmail.com The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

Dr. C.L. Eamon Optometrist

SEE

and be

SEEN!

212 Van Buren St.

613.258.7438

Spring has sprung. It’s time to get those winter tires off.

We like to keep you and your car safe.

We carry out all safety protocols to keep us all safe from COVID-19

Brakes, Air Conditioning, Mufflers, Exhaust, Wheel Alignments, Winter Tires, Summer Tires, Windshields, Trailer Hitch Installation, Batteries, Tune-Ups, Vehicle Maintenance

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

REKMANS AUTOMOTIVE INC. SERVICE AND SALES 624 HART'S WAY

Call us at 613-258-9888

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY: 8:00 A.M. UNTIL 5:30 P.M.

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

9

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

140,000 trees to be planted across Leeds and Grenville through Forests Ontario's 50 Million Tree Program

Photo provided by Forest Ontario submitted by Forests Ontario The 2021 tree planting season has begun! Forests Ontario, a not-for-profit organization, is working with planting partners across the province to plant more than 2.8 million trees through its 50 Million Tree Program (50 MTP). One planting partner is the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), which this year will add more than 200,000 trees to the provincial total.

Tree planting, deemed an essential service in March 2020 by the Ontario government, is time sensitive business. "Unfortunately, tree seedlings are quite perishable and need to be planted soon after coming from the nurs-

ery - careful timing and finetuned logistics are required," said Rob Keen, Registered Professional Forester and CEO of Forests Ontario.

Learning from the experiences of the past year, RVCA has implemented several COVID-related health and safety protocols to protect its staff, partners, and the public. Ian Cochrane, Forestry Program Manager for RVCA, says these procedures have been well-received. "Everyone in the sector, from nurseries to contractors, have been cooperative." Best practices include travelling to sites in separate vehicles, limiting landowner contact, implementing physical distancing, ensuring the use of personal protective equipment, and

keeping the number of planters on site to a minimum.

RVCA began planting on April 19 and will likely continue well into May. Crews are at work across 22 sites in the watershed, planting White Pine, Red Pine, White Cedar, White Spruce, and Tamarack, among other tree species. Red Maple, Sugar Maple, Red Oak, and Bur Oak are also popular.

RVCA is seeing more demand to increase forest cover on private land than ever before. "Last year we had 100 applicants for the 50 MTP. This year, we have 130 landowners interested in planting trees," said Ian Cochrane.

Ian said landowners have many motivations to plant

North Grenville recognizes First Responders Day May 1, 2021 marked First Responders Day – a province-wide initiative to recognize the dedication and crucial work of our first responders. First Responders Day invites all Ontarians to recognize workers on the front line, including police officers, firefighters, military personnel, paramedics, dispatchers, nurses, doctors and emergency personnel.

“On behalf of Council and the community of North Grenville, I want to thank each and every one of our first responders for their work,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “First responders put their lives on the line every day to protect us, and have gone above and beyond this past year to serve our community in May 5, 2021

so many ways, despite the additional long-standing challenges of COVID-19,” added Mayor Peckford.

Director of Emergency and Protective Services/ Fire Chief John Okum emphasized that the Municipality is fortunate to have such a talented and committed group of volunteer firefighters who serve collectively with all other first responders.

“We are so grateful here in North Grenville to have

trees. "Property owners with fallow or unproductive land that is being taken over by invasives (invasive species) want to see that land converted into forest. Some people want to plant trees to create habitat for animals or a windbreak. Still others are interested in taking advantage of a reduction in taxes through the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP)." But one motivation is consistent: "People want to save the world! With current concerns around climate change, people are looking at their land and doing an inventory of what they can give back."

Since 2008, more than 1.4 million trees have been planted in Leeds and Grenville through Forests Ontario's 50 MTP, and more than 31 million trees province wide.

The program provides financial and technical assistance to landowners who wish to plant a minimum of 500 trees on their property. Forests Ontario also offers an OverThe-Counter program for landowners and organizations who are unable to meet the minimum tree requirement of

the 50 MTP. These programs aim to increase forest cover in the province in order to multiply the many benefits trees provide.

"The 50 MTP benefits landowners and their communities immensely," explained Keen. "This program pays for an average of 75 to 90 per cent of tree planting costs for eligible landowners. Some landowners may even qualify for the MFTIP, under which they pay just 25 per cent of the municipal tax rate for residential forest properties."

Each year, Forests Ontario's network of cross-province planting partners work closely with local landowners to develop individual site plans and select native tree species that satisfy their specific vision. This can include flood protection, shading a house, creating a windbreak, helping pollinators, providing a habitat or a path for animals to travel between forested areas, boosting local ecosystems, and more.

As of June, 2019, the 50 MTP is supported by the Government of Canada, corporate

sponsors, and donors.

It's never too early to think about planting for next spring! Apply now to be added to the waitlist for the 2022 planting season by visiting www.forestsontario.ca/en/ program/50-million-tree-program. For more information about any of Forests Ontario's tree planting programs, contact Hayley Murray (Forestry Operations Coordinator) at 416-646-1193 ext. 222.

About Forests Ontario Forests Ontario is a notfor-profit charity dedicated to re-greening the province through the support of tree planting, forest restoration, stewardship, education and awareness. Through Forest Recovery Canada, we plant in other provinces and work to promote Canada's greatest natural resource - our forests - because healthy forests sustain healthy communities and healthy economies.

Forests Ontario is the voice of our forests. Visit www. forestsontario.ca or follow us @Forests_Ontario to find out more.

Fa s t E d d i e ' s D i n e r 200 Sanders St. Kemptville

613 -258- 0057 We are told we have the BEST....

BUT YOU BE THE JUDGE

We serve breakfast all day Some things we recommend are

Eddie's Fried Chicken

3pc....$13.50 / 9pc....$25.59 15 pc....$32.50 Skinless, boneless chicken breast tossed in our homemade chicken coating comes with fries and coleslaw

such dedicated emergency responders, including our own volunteer fire service,” said Councillor Kristin Strackerjan. “It’s important that this day not go unnoticed.” First Responders Day was first observed in Ontario on May 1, 2013.

Home of the Eddie Burger $9.95

2patties with bacon and cheese, hickory BBQ sauce, tomato, onions, lettuce and your choice of condiments.

Our Famous Homemade Coconut Cream Pie (per slice $3.50) (whole pie $11.00)

Club Sandwiches

$12.95-$13.95 comes with fries 8 to choose from Sliced Chicken, Breakfast, Bologna, Comoros, Chicken Salad, Grilled Chicken, Western & California.

CHECK OUT OUR FAB FREEZER MEALS ($5-$11) Shepherd's Pie, Lasagna, Meat Loaf with peas and mashed, Mac & Cheese, Garlic Chicken & fried rice, Cabbage Casserole, Grilled Chicken & rice pilaf, Meat pies & Chili.

the north grenville

TIMES

And everyone's favourite

Fish & Chips (Haddock) $13.95

Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant

LOTS MORE....COME CHECK US OUT.

Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

10

www.ngtimes.ca

Editorial

The North Grenville Times

A pandemic and some political football

by Lorraine Rekmans We have an opportunity before us to “build back better.” We can do it now, while we are in the midst of it, or go through the same types of machinations again at some point later down the road.

Last week, Premier Ford announced we would be getting “one of the best” paid sick day programs in North America. Then he announced the temporary COVID-19 Worker Income Protection Program, which would reimburse workers for up to $200 a day for three days.

I heard someone recently who said, "this is a medical crisis that has been politicized." I couldn't agree more, that politics is a major barrier to us navigating our way out of this crisis. It's not time to lay blame or poke fingers at what is wrong. It is time for ideas. This virus is mutating rapidly, and we are speeding along through so many changes. There is no time to stop and look in the rear-view

mirror. We should be looking out the windshield, and getting ready to swerve, or apply the brakes, depending on where we are headed.

At this point in time, there is a projected $35.8 billion cumulative deficit in the Employment Insurance Operating Account as of December 2020. Generally, employees pay 1.58% on every $100 earned. Employers match that contribution at a rate of 1.4 times what the employee pays. This is what we mean when we say the EI fund shouldn't be part of the federal government's revenue pot and shouldn't be treated like the consolidated revenue fund.

In 2004, the Auditor General criticized the government for collecting far more in employment insurance premiums than it needed to pay out in benefits. Sheila Fraser, Auditor General at the time, estimated that accumulated surpluses amounted to about $46 billion. In 2008, the NDP charged that the federal government was taking money from the country's employment insurance fund, money that rightfully belonged to Canadian workers. The NDP said that successive Liberal and Conservative governments used $54 billion from the EI fund to help pay down the national debt.

There is a commission

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, In his letter, Mr Macklem criticizes the editor for the number of times Universal Basic Income (UBI) is mentioned in the North Grenville Times. But maybe the number of times UBI is being mentioned in a small, local paper indicates that this is an idea whose time has come?

Canada is one of the richest countries in the world. Yet we have increas-

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 May 5, 2021

ing inequality and unequal distribution of wealth. We have the resources to ensure that nobody goes hungry or is homeless, yet we expect people on ODSP to survive on $1100 a month, and those on OW to survive on $733 a month. Meanwhile, the Thomson family are worth over $40 billion, the top 0.01% of households own 5.6% of the wealth in Canada, the top 1% of households own 25.6% of the wealth,

The Voice of North Grenville

that oversees EI and must set premium rates every year, and attempt to reach a 7- year break even rate. So, if there are deficits or surpluses, the trick is to try and balance it all out in a 7-year period. This type of math and forecasting is beyond me, so I will leave it at that. The point is, the program is always forward looking, it’s national, and it is funded by us because it’s part of our social contract to protect people.

The only reason I brought it up was to initiate a discussion on the current federally paid sick days program which offers a taxable $500 per week sick benefit to workers. The machinery of the EI Fund is in place and was a logical choice when looking at how to respond to the needs of sick workers, or people who couldn't work because of quarantines. It's not much to live on, but from what I understand, it is delivered quickly. In contrast to the CERB, which came about from specific legislation and offered a $2,000 per month from the federal government, it is the worker's money which is being paid out in sick benefits. Isn't it so typical that politicians are fighting about how to spend our money.

At this moment, there is a bit of push and push back going on with the province and

the federal government on who will or should pay sick benefits because of the pandemic. The province argued that the federal government should have addressed it in the budget, and the federal government is saying that the province needs to open its own program for paid sick days, because businesses in Ontario are provincially regulated. In the middle of this argument, here we stand, the workers and employers who are bewildered by this political struggle to do what is right, and what is needed, and to do it quickly.

Last week, a bill dealing with paid sick leave was voted down in a vote of 20 to 55. This was one of many previous attempts to address the issue. Premier Ford has been saying that the federal Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit is what is needed to encourage people to stay home if they are exposed to COVID-19, and avoid spreading the virus to others. The CRSB was announced after temporary changes were made to the EI program. These changes are in effect until September. It's pretty safe to guess where this benefit is coming from and what impact it will have on the $35 billion deficit in the fund, and the projected 7-year forecasts to balance the fund.

Like the CERB, the sickness

benefit is temporary, while with the pandemic, we can see no end in sight. The federal sick benefit can be claimed for 4 weeks. Premier’s Fords’ proposal is also a temporary fix.

But, it was initially an unprecedented offer. Premier Doug Ford's government offered to contribute to the federal program so that benefits to workers in Ontario could be doubled, but the federal government rejected the offer, saying its program is intended as a stopgap while provinces move to mandate their own paid sick leave.

Labour leaders are saying that the government needs to change the Employment Standards Act to offer at least three paid sick days a year and accrues more with each pay period, up to a maximum of 10, much the same way vacation pay works.

I say, here we stand, with the Premier willing to whip out his cheque book to fund a federal insurance program.

We should grab this chance.

The Progressive Conservative government's ideology has always been to support business, reduce payroll taxes, cut red-tape etc. Their reluctance to burden their political business base in this case is understandable, so it is not surprising they are offering to pay, and not take money

out of the pockets of business.

The federal Liberals don't want to deal with it. It's being kicked back and forth.

What if we all agreed that we together, workers, employers, provinces and the federal government, would cost share sick benefits through increased premiums shared equally all at 25% each. What if we enhanced our national EI program so that it actually met the needs of workers and prepared us for the next economic shock, climate catastrophe, or pandemic heading our way. What if we worked together to finally implement a living wage in this province so that people wouldn’t have to live hand to mouth on poverty wages? We have a chance to build back better, now, and we don’t have to wait until the pandemic is over. We don’t need programs that end in September.

What we need is cooperation. What we need is collaboration. What we need is action, rapid-testing, PPE, vaccines, and ideas. We also need to set our political stripes aside and stop trying to prove who are the best friends to business and the economy.

We need to demonstrate our humanity. People need us now.

while the bottom 40% own just 1.2%.

We have the resources in Canada to ensure nobody goes without the necessities of life such as food, water, clothing, shelter, power, and internet access. And we have plenty of work that needs doing yet is considered economically low value, such as caring for children or seniors. UBI combined with universal services would ensure that we all had enough for the necessities of life, and people wouldn't be trapped in exploitative employment. Even those of us who are fortunate enough to be employed in work we find rewarding and stimulating may decide to spend less time in paid employment and spend more time with our families, looking after our land, volunteering, or being creative.

What is clear is that our current model of unrestrained capitalism cannot continue.

The idea of infinite growth in a finite system is nonsensical, and 150 years of large scale burning of fossil fuels in the pursuit of growth has pushed the biosphere to the brink of irreversible change. What good is progress if large numbers of people get left behind?

Steve Gabell

about education offered by the UCDSB than any other parent.

I made a presentation to a previous Royal Commission on Learning. I represented the Learning Disabilities Association of Kemptville and District (by definition these students have normal intelligence and have communication issues) on the UCDSB’s Special Education Advisory Committee, one of then only two Ministry of Education mandated committees. As such, I wrote a dissenting opinion about special education offered by UCDSB. I have met with Regional Superintendents of Education at the Ministry office in Ottawa. I have written to numerous provincial governments and ministers of education.

I watched a Member of the Provincial Parliament, on TV,

read information I submitted to him.

I have four children identified as needing special education by the UCDSB, and one grandchild in the process of identification. I have paid for two of these children to attend private schools, and it is my opinion that one child learned more at Community Christian School in Metcalfe, Ontario, in one grade seven year than in all previous education with the UCDSB. The UCDSB disagrees. I have been threatened with legal action by the UCDSB, and I have been told to sign contract agreements or my child would lose all special education assistance. Assistance which was far less than recommended by the Children’s

the north grenville

Dear Editor, I would sincerely welcome a Royal Commission on Learning as recommended by the Upper Canada District School Board, reported by Hilary Thomson, NG Times, April 21, 2021. I have different reasons. I have very possibly complained more

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

TIMES

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

Editor Lorraine Rekmans editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

11

cont'd on page 12

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Letters cont'd Hospital of Eastern Ontario. I won an Identification, Placement and Review Committee decision against the UCDSB, and had the privilege of walking down a hall with principals sitting on both sides to meet with the then Director of Education who was lounging on his couch.

In my opinion, the UCDSB seems to believe that students can be taught/ educated by sending them to Essential Programs (essential for what?) in High School instead of helping them learn in elementary school as per my interpretation of Ministry of Education legislation. All this has significantly impacted my health and the health of my family.

Are there any reporters out there who are interested in a Royal Commission on Learning? Of course, you will need insurance against UCDSB retaliation. This would also give a reprieve in the Kemptville news from endless concerns about the building of a new prison in town, and would probably prevent many UCDSB students from ending up on welfare or in jail.

Pamela Gordon Dear Editor, I couldn't help but feel extremely angry by last week's article titled "If you can't be kind, be quiet" by 'Auntie Anabel' regarding the Antilock down demonstration that took place at the South Branch Bistro.

Against a personal request by the Mayor to call it off, the owners of this restaurant took it upon themselves to go ahead with this little soirée of 200 unmasked outsiders, and subjected our small town of Kemptville to a potential super spreader event, given the variants now running rampant. It was a slap in the face and total disregard for our health care providers, other businesses who remain in full compliance, and the residents of Kemptville, including their own clientele.

While I don't agree with threats, to suggest that this was a simple disagreement and comparing anyone who speaks out to McCarthyism is beyond absurd.

These owners well deserve public shaming on social media. This was not just a 'disagreement', it was a purposeful, careless, reckless act on their part that could have very well become tragic for our entire town.

To say "if you can't be kind, be quiet" is tantamount to saying "put up and shut up". If the owners didn't want to face the consequences of May 5, 2021

their actions, maybe they should have thought about that beforehand.

Louise Huot Dear Editor, Recently, I went for my scheduled vaccine at the Kemptville clinic located in the Municipal Centre. The process was extremely efficient and the staff were very friendly.

However, there were several couples entering the injection space when only one person in the couple was actually scheduled to receive the vaccine. The "extra" person was not assisting his/ her partner in any way, other than keeping them company during the injection process.

To me, this should not be permitted by the health unit.

The extra person is occupying a chair that could be assigned to someone scheduled and waiting in line. Maybe one of your readers can explain the need for this additional person.

Laura Snippe Dear Editor, So, Ford's previous sick days plan, "the best program anywhere in North America", was nothing more than a top up of the federal Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, for which you are only eligible if you miss 50% of your work week. It has now been upgraded by adding the restoration of the provincial sick days plan, and increasing the paid sick days from 2 to 3. While this still isn't enough in the middle of a pandemic when you are supposed to isolate for 10 days, it is at least a start. Ford has finally recognized that labour is the jurisdiction of the provinces, and that this is his government's responsibility.

A proper sick days plan has to address the danger that our front line workers are in, who are often paid so little that they literally cannot afford to take a day off of work. All the experts warned Ford that a third wave was coming, and that it would be driven by those underpaid and overworked in front line work places, which is exactly what has happened.

Previous to all this was Ford's press conference in his late-mother's back yard, in which he tearfully apologized for the mistakes that he has made. I wouldn't think that there would be many people fooled by his theatrics. It takes a certain kind of person to pretend to cry over human suffering when that pain is a direct result of the actions that you have taken. He apologized for people getting mad at his plans, but not for having

bad plans. He put on a show to distract us from the disaster that he created.

Ford was repeatedly told by experts what would happen, saw it happen, and did nothing. He did this because he's not concerned with the well being of the people, but rather, with corporate profit margins. Ford hasn't made mistakes; he has made informed choices to put business over the lives of workers.

We discovered Ford's stance on paid sick days a while ago. In January 2019, he repealed the government policy that provided workers with 2 paid sick days, then, in February 2021, just days after the co-chair of Ontario's Covid-19 Science Advisory Table admitted Ontario would be facing a disaster due to his government's policies, Ford called paid sick days "a waste of taxpayer money", "unacceptable", not fiscally prudent", and "totally irresponsible". Ford outright stated that workers lives aren't worth the taxpayer money that it would take to save them. When asked why his government had cut sick leave in the first place, Ford was clear; "I just don't believe in hurting business more than they have already been hurt."

That says it all.

With this government, it is all about business. This is why it finds it acceptable to pave over wetlands so that a distribution centre can be built, and why it is supporting business by building unneeded jails and 400 series highways, the former of which aren't needed if we just fix the remand system, and the latter in order to save commuters 30 seconds of travel time. Those opinions are from experts in their field, but Ford doesn't believe in experts, particularly when history proves them to be right. When this happens, Ford tries to deflect the blame elsewhere.

Ford is systematically destroying our Health Care system, our Education system, our Social programs, and our natural environment, all in pursuit of his ideologically driven agenda. He has no time for anyone who disagrees with him, especially the experts. He thinks that he knows it all. Well, he obviously doesn't.

He needs to step aside and let somebody else take over, someone who will not spectacularly drop the ball in times of crisis, and who understands just what governments exist for, which is to look after the welfare of all its citizens. Government is not meant to be a vehicle for relaxing or removing laws that

The Voice of North Grenville

UPDATE For updates related to COVID-19 and the North Grenville Municipal Centre visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus In light of the province-wide stay-at-home order, please be advised that the Municipal Centre is currently closed to the public. The Municipality remains operational to provide essential services and assistance to residents and businesses by virtual appointment only.

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube commencing at 6:30 pm. To view the live stream visit: https://www.youtube.com/user/ NorthGrenville/featured For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please pre-register with the Clerk’s Office at the same e-mail address. Please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting. If you require accommodation, please advise the Clerk’s Office when pre-registering so that they may best assist you.

Council agendas (including for closed sessions) may be found here: https://www.northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes PLANNING PUBLIC MEETING • Council Meeting – May 12, 2021 o Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment – 5870 County Rd.19 o Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment – 335 Pine Hill Rd. o Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment – 304 Prescott St.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS Committee meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing Jessica Workman at jworkman@northgrenville.on.ca Heritage Advisory Committee – Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 4:30 pm Health, Wellness & Fitness Advisory Committee – Monday, May 10, 2021 at 4:00 pm

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers for more details Executive Director – Kemptville Campus: Resumes must be received no later than 4:00 pm on May 7, 2021

BULKY/LARGE ITEM COLLECTION UPDATE NEW DATES for Bulky Item Collection: June 14 – 18 and June 21-25 Leaf and Yard Waste Collection remains the same: May 31 – June 4 and June 7 – 11 Residents can purchase Bulky Item and Leaf and Yard Bag Tags online at: www.NGrecycles.ca

VACCINATION CLINIC

The vaccination clinic is located at the North Grenville Municipal Centre in Kemptville: 285 County Road 44. The entrance is on the Southside of the building. If you are eligible, you can book your COVID-19 vaccine online at www.ontario.ca/bookvaccine or call the Provincial Vaccine Information Line at 1-888-999-6488.

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: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca 613-258-9569 x211 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

www.NorthGrenville.ca

protect us all, just so that the well heeled can make even more money at the expense of the rest of us, but this is all that Ford seems to be capable of doing.

Finally, let us not forget that Ford is supported in all this by his caucus, one of whom happens to be our very own MPP, Steve Clark, who is quite obviously complicit in all this.

Colin Creasey

12

Dear Editor, From the Ottawa Citizen, an article by Elizabeth Payne “Tearful Ford apologizes, promises paid sick leave”, inspired me to write: Too little, too late, Mr Ford. Too many people have died and are still dying. He cancelled Kathleen Wynne’s ‘sick leave’ when he became Premier. He cancelled every ‘green’ initiative she took, such as windmills and solar energy.

Dr Peter Etches said outdoor activities such as playgrounds, tennis, etc were much better than anything indoors, but also with proper

precautions.

The biggest problems seem to be meat processing plants, not possible for protection of workers, and Amazon, Costco, these huge places are not protecting workers well enough. They also keep the pockets of the Conservative teams ‘filled’ for letting them stay open. The only thing that stopped him from producing a ‘Police State’ was the anger and outrage from a majority of people. He considered his re-election possibilities.

Kath Piché

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford

Merrickville-Wolford defers expenditures to pass budget with no tax increase

by Hilary Thomson Merrickville-Wolford council passed their 2021 budget at the last council meeting at a 0% tax increase.

The draft budget overview which was made available to the public over six days last week reported a 0.09% tax increase. This was due to council directing staff to include $3000 in the library budget for building maintenance and repairs. CAO Doug Robertson told council at their meeting of April 26 that staff had received some new information since their budget discussion about the municipality's grant revenue for the year, and because of this, they were able use the grant funding to offset the $3000 and bring the budget back down to zero.

In order to ensure a 0%

tax increase, staff had to be conservative with their spending this year. This included reducing a payment to their infrastructure reserve to roughly $17,000, rather than their usual $70,000$170,0000.

Although there are quite a few roads that need maintenance throughout the municipality, they have chosen to focus on the ones that are overdue for attention and severely at risk of falling into disrepair. This includes Bates Road, Reid Street, Ireland Road, Weedmark Road and a portion of Snowdons Corners Road.

Deputy Mayor Michael Cameron is concerned that the municipality is not doing enough to address roads. The Village's 2014 asset management plan outlined over 80 roads in the municipality, 18 of which needed attention.

"Millions of dollars in road

ters over the next few years, he believes that the details should have been hammered out when they were installed in 2003. "There was no provision in the bylaw directing staff exactly how they would fund these end of life meters," he says. "Here we are at a point again where it's being discussed. It's a reactive council, not a proactive council."

He also has concerns about residents of Wolford being neglected, especially with the municipality's apparent inability to plough a sidewalk in Jasper so residents can have a safe place to walk during the winter. "We should be delivering the same service to all ratepayers," he says.

Finally, he doesn't believe there was enough council discussion and public input in the budget process. Looking at surrounding municipalities, many used Zoom to hold their budget deliberations to en-

upgrades were identified in 2014," Deputy Mayor Cameron says. "Here we are coming into 2021 and we haven't moved forward on that, with the exception of a couple roads that have been tarred and chipped."

The Deputy Mayor was the only member of council to vote against the 2021 budget. He believes that it is not reflective of the needs of residents and that council needs to have a more forwardthinking approach to managing the municipality. He says this is a historical issue and is exemplified by the fact that council just had to go back into their bylaw to address who was responsible for paying for the replacement of water meters in the Village at end of life. Although Deputy Mayor Cameron was pleased with council's decision to use reserves to pay the $266,588 needed to replace all 400 me-

WE NEED HEROES

ACT NOW

Upper Canada District School Board Report

VILLAGE OF MERRICKVILLE-WOLFORD Student Summer Employment 2021 Public Works Labourers Salary $14.50/hr

Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) met virtually on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 for a regularly scheduled board meeting.

Trustees send best wishes to retiring Director Trustees gave their best wishes to retiring UCDSB Director of Education and Secretary to the Board Stephen Sliwa. Sliwa, who served in education for more than three decades, was present for his last trustees meeting.

Chair John McAllister spoke on behalf of the trustees and turned the attention toward the recent announced that Sliwa was named the recipient of the 2021 Eastern Ontario Staff Development Network's (EOSDN) Eleanor Newman Outstanding Service Award.

Roger Richard was appointed

by Trustees as the Acting Secretary of the Board until the new Director of Education and Secretary to the Board is in place. Richard filled the role of a Senior Business Advisor from 2018-2019 for the UCDSB. UCDSB reports on Environmental-Focused Educa-

Two labourers required to assist with grounds maintenance and various other activities performed bythe Public Works Department from May to August 2021.

Qualifications: Must have valid driver’s licence; willing to work indoors and outdoors; previous experience with lawn maintenance equipment an asset; must be responsible, reliable and attendingpost-secondary school.

Sizzling Summer Camp Program 2021

Camp Director (Salary $15.50/hr) (May-Aug) The successful candidate will be a self starter with enthusiasm and the desire to help local youth (age6-12) experience a fantastic summer of fun and learning. The Camp Director establishes, organizes and operates a schedule of 8-10 summer programs. The successful candidate will hire assistants for the summer. At the end of the Camp, the Director prepares a written report.

Two Camp Program Assistants (Salary $14.50/hr)(July-Aug) The successful candidates must be able to take direction, work well with others, be enthusiastic andenjoy working with youth (age 6-12). The Assistants shall aid the Camp Director to operate the summer program as needed and will supervise and coach children.

For the Summer Camp, preference may be given to students involved in recreational-sportschildren’s studies at a post-secondary institution. First Aid training and previous experience workingwith children will be an asset. As a condition of employment, each successful candidate shall, upon being offered employment, present a “Vulnerable Sector” check from the Ontario Provincial Police.

Applications for all of the above positions will be received until 4:00 p.m. on, Friday May 21st.

Theenvelope or cover letter shall clearly indicate “Public Works”, “Camp Director”, or “Camp Assistant” and be addressed to: Village of Merrickville-Wolford P.O. Box 340, 317 Brock St. West Merrickville, ON K0G 1N0 Attn: Kirsten Rahm, TreasurerFax: 613-269-3095 e-mail : finance@merrickville-wolford.ca We thank all of those who apply but only the parties invited for an interview will be contacted. Information is collected in confidenceunder the Freedom of Information Act. The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is an equal opportunity employer.

www.merrickville-wolford.ca May 5, 2021

courage public input, and the Deputy Mayor doesn't understand why they didn't do the same. "The ratepayers are the reason why we have budgets, the ratepayers are the reason why we have roads and water and sewer and all this other stuff in the municipality," he says. "These people are the shareholders, and cutting them out of the process, to me, is not respectful."

Mayor Doug Struthers said at the meeting that he believes council and staff worked well to put together a good budget for 2021. Council held two recorded budget meetings and had almost three weeks to go over the budget and raise their concerns with staff. "Keeping the tax rate increase this year at zero just underscores the care and consideration that council and staff have given to the people who live in MerrickvilleWolford," he said.

13

tion Plan Staff outlined how the school board is currently implementing environmentally focused educational opportunities for its students.

Currently, staff are implementing environmental lesson plans through curriculum expectations outlined across all subject areas.

As well, schools across the district have implemented school-based environmental initiatives such as outdoor learning spaces, community gardens, community partnerships, and environmental clubs. Environmental education is also being addressed through experiential learning, Indigenous education, literacy, and outdoor education programming.

Finally, environmental education is being delivered through Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs in our secondary schools, that focus on the environmental sector and agricultural sector.

Budget Outlook 20212022 presented Staff provided trustees with a high-level budget outlook for the 2021-22 school

year. With expected sustained lower enrolment projections as a result of the pandemic, the school board has implemented early planning using these projected numbers for the budget.

When it comes to funding, staff predict stable funding for the Grants for Student Needs and don't anticipate any further funding for COVIDrelated budget line items.

However, staff anticipate a stabilization for these pandemic-related expenses in 2021-2022.

Based on this information, the finance team outlined a projected 2021-22 revenue of $371.8 million while expenses are estimated at $371.2 million. These budget projections result in a compliant budget with a preliminary projected surplus of $0.6M. Budget deliberations for trustees is expected to begin in May. Full details on presentations, reports and discussions can be found in the agenda or reviewed in the recorded broadcast.

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Happy Mother's Day

”

Celebrate Mom with a dinner from Salamanders

Mother’s Day is a great time to show your Mom a little extra love. You may not be able to see Mom in person this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make her day. Whether you’re planning a socially-distanced visit or a Zoom brunch, Mother’s Day can still be special during the pandemic.

Even better, send her a little pick-me-up from one of these local businesses. There's never been a better time to support local.

Open (for pickup) on Sunday May 9 from 4pm to 8pm.

We will take pre orders starting at 2pm.

ALWAYS OPEN FOR TAKE OUT Thurs, Fri, Sat, from 4pm -8pm.

613-258-2630

Hosta-A vigorous & tough shade garden winner

28 Clothier Street East, Kemptville

Gardens to Ramble Garden Centre to Experience

Rideau Woodland Ramble Open Every Day 9am-5pm Mid April to October 7210 Burritts Rapids Rd, Merrickville

613-258-3797, rideauwoodlandramble.com May 5, 2021

14

By David Dunn….. painter and gardener and co-founder of Rideau Woodland Ramble For more years than I can remember, my imagination has been captured by Hostas. This fantastic perennial has been the favorite among gardeners for some time.

Hosta are leafy lush perennials that generally thrive in shade to part sun. They are sought after for their leaves, and their ability to thrive in shade, although, every year there are new introductions whose flowers are extremely fragrant, adding to the mix. These plants come in tiny form, like Hosta Blue Mouse Ears, or Hosta Tiny Tears, to gigantic, such as Hosta Blue Umbrellas, Hosta Sum and Substance, or Empress Wu. They can be used as edger’s, or as large specimens, taking a special place of prominence in the garden.

The most striking feature of Hosta are the fabulous range of colour variation, and leaf type. They range through greens, blues, gold, and variegated forms. The leaves can be puckered, wrinkled, shiny, smooth, heavily veined and so on. Their stems can be green, or red.

Hosta love rich soil and moist conditions (think woodland).

They do best in shade, but some can tolerate sun if given continuous access to moisture, and they have a thick leaf tending towards gold with little white variegation. Blue hostas must be in shade or they green out.

Hosta, Ferns and Astible are a great combination, along with Heuchera, and various other woodland plants. Combinations of colour and contrasting forms create real drama in the garden.

Hostas grow in a clump that gets larger every year. They are very easy to propagate by dividing these clumps…. best done early in spring when the eyes are visible, but the leaves have not fully unfurled. While one mature plant will yield many offspring, Hostas need to grow old to fully exhibit all their traits ….so leave some large specimens as a clump and let them age to perfection. Young Hostas can be unrecognizable from their old selves!

Hostas do not like long term exposure to acidic conditions.

If they are competing with conifers (spruce, pine, cedar) it’s best to give them some garden lime from time to time. These treatments will avoid seeing them wane over time and allow them to maintain their characteristic vigor. Hosta are perennials that die down to the ground each year. They all have different schedules in the spring, impacted by the temperature of that part of the garden. If you are wondering where your favorite Hosta is in the spring, give it time, it will reappear with the heat of the spring!

So… add some colour and scale to your shade garden.

Consider Hostas, but be careful, the collecting bug is a real risk for this amazing perennial. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Plums being pocketed

by Fred Schueler & Aleta Karstad, Fragile Inheritance Natural History It has recently been in the news that the Japanese have been recording the date of blooming of a cherry species, Prunus jamasakura, since 812 AD, and that this year's peak bloom, on 26 March, was the earliest ever recorded. Cherry bloom is a national festival in Japan, and the progress of the flowering across the country is both reported in the news, and predicted by meteorological formulae.

There are places in North Grenville that are blessed by a similar profusion of bloom on our native Canada Plum, Prunus nigra. One of the most conspicuous stands is the small thicket at the intersection of Clothier Street and Somerville Road in Kemptville. We've been recording the date of first bloom in the Canada Plum thicket on our land along Buker Road in

Bishops Mills since 1998, with dates which range over a whole month from 18 May in 2003 to 17 April in the pre-polar vortex spring of 2012. This year there were a few blooms open, among lumps of snow on the twigs, on 21 April, full bloom was 24 April, and the snow storm of 30 April pulled a lot of the petals off, before it looked like many pollinators had gotten to the flowers.

For many species, the activity of pollinators would determine the amount of fruit set, but with the Canada Plums in Grenville County, the major determining factor is a fungus, a species of Taphrina, and in most years in place of fruits, the bushes bear hollow, spore-dispersing, bladder-like growths, a disease called "plum pockets."

In most years, no successful sexual reproduction results from the spectacular display of white bloom that covers the bushes before the leaves

emerge, and many who have Canada Plums on their land don't know that the bushes, or small trees, are Plums. In 1999, 2011, 2013, and 2019 our bushes have borne a modest crop of plums, though many of the fruit were dotted by black fungus-spots, and in some sap oozes out into sugary crystals on the surface.

On our land, the fungus also stunts the young shoots, and the blackened Plum Pockets are retained on the twigs over the winter into the next spring's blooming. We've surveyed roadside Plums across North Grenville, but haven't found any stands free from the fungus, though we did transplant one shoot a few hundred metres from the existing stand, and for several years it was free of Taphrina.

One significance of this disease is that while the invasive Cathartic Buckthorn, Rhamnus cathartica, the dark shrub that lines Bolton and many other roads, is morphologically and ecologically very similar to Canada Plum, it freely produces its bitter fruit, which are dispersed by Robins, Waxwings, and other fruit-eating Birds. Plums spread by suckering, while Buckthorn doesn't, so it's likely that the landscapewide invasion of the alien Buckthorn is partly due to the disease that suppresses the spread of the native Plums, which would otherwise compete with them for

the wirey dark shrub niche in eastern Ontario's oldfields and roadsides. Like Buckthorn, Canada Plum bushes have incredibly twisted sharp twigs, which make the stands very hard to get through, and pushing through a stand after plums is a good way to rip your clothes, get bloody scratches on your arms, and have your glasses pulled off your head and bent out of shape.

When there's a year when there are plums, and you manage to gather some, you can ferment them in brine, as is done with the Japanese Umiboshi Plums (Prunus mume). The jar of wild plums that we put into brine in August of 2013 is still alive and resisting invasion by moulds in 2021. This culture is a real treasure! We take out the flat, sharp-ended pits, and use the salty, cherry-flavoured flesh in salads and in sandwiches with cheese. We buy bottles of "Umeboshi Vinegar" for salting our soups and salads, and these soft little plums taste just like that, but with an even fruitier flavour.

There's another similar native species of plum, Prunus americana, which is widely cultivated as hybrids with other species, and doesn't suffer from Taphrina.

It differs most obviously in having sharp, glandless teeth on the leaf margins rather than the blunt, gland-tipped teeth of Canada Plum leaves.

Recommendations for control of Taphrina on domestic plums are mostly to spray a lime-sulphur mixture or other fungicides on the trees before the buds open in the spring, and to remove diseased fruit early in their development, but there are differences between what we see on Canada Plum and the development of Taphrina on cultivated plums.

We haven't found any indication that the Taphrina isn't a native species; we have tried to get tree disease specialists interested in this situation, but so far without success.

In years when our bushes have produced fruit, we have seen some new Canada Plum bushes clearly grown from seeds on our land, so if you want to encourage the species for the spectacle of bloom or the hope of fruit, you can plant the pits, or you can transplant suckers, washing them off before planting in the hope of not transmitting the fungus.

The Voice of North Grenville

Baldwin's Birds

When are bird nesting boxes not? -When a nesting red squirrel takes over!

Good Day dear readers, I hope you are all fit and well and taking care of yourselves and those around you. Today I had a special treat, and a pleasant change from the usual bird activity, when I espied some action coming from the direction of my large nesting house.

This activity wasn't from what you would normally expect to see in the form of birds, but from a Red Squirrel, who was relocating his/her four youngsters, from one of the nine nesting compartments, to their new lodgings in a tree, or bush, somewhere else in the garden. I knew that they were in there from when I had tried to clean the boxes out a few weeks ago, prior to the Spring birds returning. One of the compartments was stuffed full, with what seemed like wool, and there were four babies in the midst of it, so I just put the roof back on and left it. Today was the Squirrels "self eviction day", so that I can now go and clean it out again, for some birds to use, hopefully!

I spent over an hour watching, photographing and movie making all the action, as the parent coaxed, dragged and carried the babes from quite high up, down a metal frame-work, and took them into the nearby Pine trees. Three of the little ones were relocated, without too much fuss for the parent, quite quickly, but the fourth one kept going back inside the box. The parent would go back inside and try to get it out, but wasn't having much success. Parts of the babe would appear through the hole and then disappear back in, even when the grown up was inside urging it out! The parent tried what looked like food bribes to no avail! Then, after about 10 minutes of these antics, the parent finally decided that enough was enough and went in and grabbed junior, by the scuff of the neck, and out they both came! He was then re-positioned in mouth and carted down and into the trees, to join the rest of the gang! Quite the exciting event to witness.

Stay safe and well, John Baldwin

Conservative Party secures $8.47 million in donations in first quarter Canada's Conservatives have broken yet another fundraising record, this time by raising over $8.47 million from over 45,000 donors - a new first quarter fundraising record for any Canadian political party in history. This beats the previous alltime high also set by the Conservatives in 2019 when $8.01 million was raised.

The next fundraising report will cover April to June 2021, and will be released by Elections Canada at the end of July.

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

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

May 5, 2021

15

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Bridging generations online for health

photo by Pixaby Everywhere, people are fed up with enforced isolation. While adhering to stayat-home orders at the urging of public health officials and in empathy with frontline health care workers, the restrictions are taking a toll on the physical and mental well-being of all. While senior citizens can be especially impacted, it is less commonly acknowledged that younger people, particularly teens, struggle with isolation too.

For older adults, enduring long periods cut off from family and friends is known to cause depression, generalized anxiety disorders, decreased sleep, and functional impairment. Research published in Lancet Public Health warns that social isolation can also accelerate cardiovascular and brain aging, exacerbating dementia.

Likewise, students of all ages are suffering from lockdowns. They are not getting the exercise and outdoor time they need. Schooling has been repeatedly disrupted. The entire cohort of first-year uni-

HELP

WANTED

versity students in 2020-21 has missed a formative experience. Many in this highly social generation have shifted to virtual friendship circles and online entertainment.

Others exist in boredom and loneliness, absent engagement with anyone.

Dr. David Nabarro, a Special Envoy on COVID-19 for the World Heath Organization, made headlines last October when he articulated the WHO's position that "The only time we believe a lockdown is justified is to buy you time to reorganize, regroup, re-balance your resources, [and] protect your health workers who are exhausted."

Yet, despite repeated regrouping, the virus is easily out maneuvering the experts. And the lockdowns and movement restrictions continue. So what can be done?

A prescription for patience is the order. But there is ample opportunity to harness this awful pandemic to connect isolated people - young and old - in innovative, health-inducing ways

using online platforms. Research shows that matching up young people with older people on digital platforms has a remarkably positive impact on both generations.

This is not a new idea. The aging of the "baby boomers" has had many researchers advocating for policymakers to leverage this generation as a massive learning resource.

There is ample evidence of benefits to the boomers. One study showed that older adults providing internet-based tutoring to fifth-grade students became comfortable using computers, had improvements in mood, and had an enhanced quality of life from the interactions.

In a Canadian program, older adults provided second-language coaching to young people through video conferencing. An evaluation determined that participants of all ages valued the program with youth reporting benefits from the language immersion.

Older adults demonstrated high levels of motivation to participate.

The pandemic has many more programs underway.

Dr. Li Feng Tan, a researcher at Alexandra Hospital in Singapore, runs inter-generation programs that bring older and younger people together for exercise, dance, charades, bingo, Pictionary, music classes, performances, and virtual tours. A comparison of in-person programs with virtual programs found that online platforms have engaged more participants within the hospital, enabled engagement by patients in different wards, and eliminated the risk of cross-infection, a major concern during the current pandemic.

In addition to the health benefits, the basic skills with phones and computers that teenagers and even young children can teach to seniors enables older people to connect themselves with other online platforms they enjoy, including resources for health promotion.

The programs are lowcost, easy to scale up, and do not require expensive health care professionals, therapists, or technicians.

Generations United, a clearinghouse for information on different types of intergenerational programs, has a publication in its resource library called Staying Connected While Staying Apart.

The report lists dozens of engaging programs around the world and step-by-step guidance on how to get involved or set up new virtual inter-generational programs.

See www.gu.org.

Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff. com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

Ray’s Haulage is recruiting reliable, punctual, positive hard working individuals to join our team.

You MUST have AZ Licence, be capable of performing and completing daily pre/post-trip inspections, daily drivers logs, company timesheets and other required paperwork thoroughly.

We require “3” references from within the trucking field as well as “3” years commercial insurance experience.

Successful candidates will have End-Dump Trailer experience and a clean drivers & commercial licence abstract, as well as their own transportation to our yard.

Contact Christina at 613-720-1391.

May 5, 2021

16

The Voice of North Grenville

Ontario 4-H Foundation announces new trustees

The Ontario 4-H Foundation recently held its annual meeting and congratulates Kim Turnbull of Canfield for being elected chair for the next two year period. Rounding out the executive is Vice-Chair Naomi Lutes (Toronto), Secretary Stuart Budd (Paris) and Treasurer John Mayes (Ottawa).

Turnbull replaces John den Haan (Loretto) who remains on the Board as past chair.

Two new Trustees were voted in. Congratulations go to Tayler Black of Fergus and Ingrid Larmer of Blackstock, who replace the retiring Brian Little and Barry Fraser. Tayler brings strong digital communications skills to the Board, whereas Ingrid will provide strength with her business and financial experience. Many thanks go to Little and Fraser for their many years of dedication to 4-H in Ontario.

The Foundation wrapped up a relatively successful year in 2020, despite having to cancel their two golf tournaments, the major annual fundraising events. Despite the effects of COVID-19, the Foundation was able to return 8.3% on investments in 2020. This return applies to all funds managed by the Foundation including the County Endowment Funds, the Local Association Investment Accounts and the Foundation Endowment Funds.

The investing goal of the Foundation is for stable, long term growth of 4.5% to 5% annually and monies are in a mix of conservative stocks and bonds. The return in the most recent five year period is 5.6%.

In 2008, The Foundation started an Endowment Fund for each of the 50 local associations in the province by depositing an initial $5000 (a $250000 investment) to which the counties can add to build for the future. Each year the counties can withdraw a percentage to support their local activities. The funds also act as a vehicle for further charitable donations at the local level. In 2020, local associations withdrew nearly $9,000 to assist in the delivery of 4-H programs locally.

Last year, additional funds from the Foundation were freed up and sent to local 4-H associations and clubs to pay fees for video conferencing, something which allowed many clubs to pivot their programming successfully. In 2020, the Foundation also disbursed $3,400 in scholarships, including the Bertram and Hazel Stewart 4-H Dairy Education Award presented at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair each year.

Since its start in 1995, the Foundation has raised close to $3 million for 4-H in Ontario. In just the last five years, (2015-2019), the Foundation has distributed $635,600 with $433,000 going to support provincial programs and $202,600 going to support community programs and scholarships.

Over the next two years, Chair Turnbull and the Trustees will continue to tackle the challenge of fundraising during this COVID-19 era, beginning to raise the next $3 million.

The goal of the Foundation has always been simple - to acquire and invest funds through endowments and donations for the long-term benefit of 4-H in Ontario.

About 4-H Ontario: 4-H Ontario is a non-profit organization that supports young people in becoming leaders within their communities and assets to the world. With roots in rural Ontario, today 4-H is available across the province. 4-H youth ages 6-21 and volunteer leaders come together to learn about selected topics through fun, hands-on activities and mentorship. There are also provincial camps, conferences, competitions and national and international travel opportunities available to further develop skills in leadership, professional development, resilience and more. 4-H is passionate about preparing young people for the future and showing them that with the right skills and attitude, anything is possible.

About the Ontario 4-H Foundation: The Ontario 4-H Foundation raises funds to ensure the long-term financial health of 4-H in Ontario. As a federally incorporated non-profit charity, our mission is to attract, manage, and grow endowment funds that support the future of 4-H in Ontario. Through sound fiscal management, the Foundation Trustees manage approximately $2.8 million on behalf of the organization with the objective of an annual return of 5%. For the past ten years, the Foundation has met or exceeded that goal. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Food Corner

The Voice of North Grenville

CROSSWORD

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Bread: the staple of life. Both Ma's and my family originated in Nova Scotia. Beth came from the middle of the province and me from the Gaspereau Valley. So, this recipe for Nova Scotia Brown Bread is a winner. This bread, with homemade baked beans, was Saturday night's dinner in many Nova Scotia Homes.

Nova Scotia Brown Bread

Ingredients 1 ½ cups of rolled oats 2 cups of boiling water 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (or to taste) ¾ cup molasses ½ cup warm water 2 teaspoons of salt 1 tablespoon of shortening 1 package of active dry yeast 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar ½ cup of butter, melted Preparation 1. In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, salt, boiling water, shortening and molasses.

2. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water and sugar; let stand 10 minutes or until frothy.

3. Add flour gradually to the rolled oat mixture, also mixing in the blend of yeast, water and sugar in the process.

4. Cover and let rise in a warmish place until about double in size.

5. Stir down and divide into two small, greased loaf pans.

6. Cover and let rise again until just about doubled in size.

7. Baked in a preheated oven (350 degrees) for about 45 minutes.

8. Remove the loaves from the pans and brush the tops with melted butter.

9. Let the loaves cool on racks.

By the way, this recipe was collected in the Friday, April 30th, 1993 North Bay Nugget Cookbook by my own mother Yvonne. Viola MacVicar was the author (mind you, it's a heck of trot from North Bay to Nova Scotia, so go figure).

All the best to you all and thanks for your kind feedback.

From Paul at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

HEAPHYS CLEANING SERVICE

ACROSS 1. Widespread 5. Seethes 10. Not first 14. Savvy about 15. Paperlike cloths 16. Skilled 17. Arranged diagonally 19. Family group 20. Citrus drink 21. Pew 22. Approves 23. Hansen's disease 25. Anagram of "Debit" 27. Years (French) 28. Obsequious 31. Tense 34. Strollers 35. Half of a pair 36. Type of sword 37. A promotional statement 38. Chew

ALL NATURAL PRODUCTS

39. Put clothing on 40. Brandish 41. Speech defects 42. Occurring within one day 44. Petrol 45. Deputies 46. A wedge-shaped tent 50. Chasms 52. Utilizers 54. Loving murmur 55. Wicked 56. Type of denture 58. Distribute 59. Kidney-related 60. If not 61. Articulates 62. Mire 63. Adolescent

DOWN 1. Outspoken 2. Positive pole 3. Caused by streptococci 4. 2,000 pounds 5. Pressure 6. Yellowish brown 7. Sweeping story 8. Surface to scrub clothes 9. South southeast 10. Flunky 11. Erosions 12. Kill 13. 10 10 10 10 18. Hard wood 22. Probabilities 24. Sexual assault 26. Poetic foot 28. Genuinely 29. Break 30. Chops 31. A Star Wars hero 32. Atop 33. Mindset 34. Gave sexual gratification 37. Remain 38. Essence 40. Bankrolls 41. Expire 43. Shoulder firearms 44. Babble 46. Foot lever 47. French school 48. Like the Vikings 49. Keepsake 50. Precious stones 51. Eye layer 53. A region of SE Pakistan 56. Brassiere 57. Damp

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

WEEKLY, BI-WEEKLY AND MONTHLY CLEANS AVAILABLE 3 Bedrooms: Dusting baseboards, window sills, surfaces; vacuum floors 2 Bathrooms: Shower/bathtub combo, toilet, sink, mirror, countertop, front of vanity, window sills, light switches and mop floors Kitchen: Cupboards, stove top, counters, sink, window sills, front of appliances wiped and polished, and floors mopped Living room: Dusting, baseboards, vacuuming and mopping Dining room: Dusting baseboards, surfaces, vacuuming and mopping Entryway: Dusting, baseboards, vaccuming and mopping $105 + HST *Add-ons available

613.206.7279

heaphyscleaningservice@gmail.com

Easy

Medium

Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

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

May 5, 2021

17

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Myth understandings An irregular column by David Shanahan One of us must know (sooner or later) This column has generated quite a lot of correspondence since it first appeared, not all of it conducted through the Letters page, I should add. What has become clear is that any discussion of spirituality and its place in life can be completely thrown off track when people find themselves using words in differing ways. What do you mean when you talk about "faith", or "truth", or even "God"?

But, undoubtedly, the biggest dispute centers on that old favourite, Science and Religion: are they compatible, or is religious belief anti-intellectual, anti-science? This is more than a dispute over words: the issues lie at the very foundation of how we perceive ourselves as human beings, how we relate to the world around us, and to each other. Both terms claim to be involved in a study of what really is, what lies behind the reality of existence.

The strange thing is, that both terms, "Religion" and "Science", are actually quite nebulous and unsatisfactory, too general to allow for a proper exami-

nation of either in relation to the other. If "religion" is taken to mean any belief in the supernatural, or a spiritual reality outside of what we can experience with our senses, then that would include everything from people kneeling and worshiping trees, or rocks, to people with Nobel prizes writing serious academic works. It includes Islamic terrorists and Ghandi, Martin Luther King Junior and the Ku Klux Klan.

As a Christian, I can only speak from that perspective, really, and have no desire to ally myself, intellectually or spiritually, with those who are "religious", but don't accept the fundamentals of Christianity. I believe Christianity has a unique and universal truth, a perspective that provides a rational and comprehensive analysis of the universe, its origins, and our place in it as human beings. Even then, if we're going to have a good discussion, the term "Christian" has to be further defined. People and organizations calling themselves "Christian" have been responsible for some horrific acts over history, and have imposed unsupportable burdens on men and women far beyond what was lawful

Classifieds FOR SALE

MasterCraft wire feed welder, $125. Call 613-258-6577 Firewood for sale - mixed hardwood, 3 cord minimum for delivery, $110 per cord, call Jon 613-227-3650 Cedar posts and rails for sale - various sizes, call Jon for pricing 613-227-3650 MEN'S 26" BICYCLE PARTS. EVERYTHING EXCEPT THE FRAME INCLUDING THE TWO WHEELS WITH NEW TIRES/ T U B E S. C A L L D O U G 613 258-4573

New Noma 35 pint Dehumidifier $ 200.00 613 258 0445 JAYCO 5th wheel. Fully loaded, beautiful shape.

Call James 613-258-3561

Hardwood for sale. Milled black walnut. Merrickville May 5, 2021

jgharris@sympatico.ca

Cedar posts,Spruce logs & pickets.. call 613.258.3561

or moral.

So, how can you distinguish the Christian from Christendom, as historians often call that worldly and politically powerful culture that has existed since the time of Constantine, around 300A.D.? There again, the only truly valid source of definition is Jesus himself, and the writings of the New Testament.

After all, if someone does something in God's name which contradicts how Jesus defines his people, then that person is misappropriating the name "Christian". That, surely, is an acceptable criterion for defining "Christianity"?

It is very much the same situation when the term "Science"is used. You will constantly hear phrases that start: "Science has shown..", or "Science has proved...", etc. But, technically, does "Science", singular, really exist? Traditionally, we have talked about "the Sciences", plural, or "the scientific method". Beginning with Physics, Chemistry and Biology, the sciences have sub-divided into many other areas of research and inquiry: so much so, that the average Paleontologist will have little knowledge of molecular biology. Similarly, the astro-physicist

may have little insight into the most recent discoveries in Genetics, although there is a certain amount of overlap between various fields.

It is interesting to point out that Physics, for example, is considered a science, but Psychology isn't.

Nor is History for that matter. Why? Because Physics deals with an examination and observation of quantifiable and physical matter: how things work. History may be based on factual evidence, be reliable and accurate in its recording of events, the lives of people, etc., but none of the things it deals with can be directly observed or repeated. We cannot verify by scientific method that Napoleon lost the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The sciences, therefore, deal exclusively with what can be observed, with explaining the structure of reality as we experience it through our senses. What the sciences must not do is replace scientific data with assumptions based on philosophical bias.

For the sciences to say that the supernatural does not, or cannot exist is to go beyond the remit of the scientific method because there is no way to prove, or disprove, what cannot be observed and quantified.

To say that God does not

exist, or that the human race must have evolved, is to move from the scientific method to assumptions and declarations that the sciences can neither prove or disprove, and so lie outside the proper sphere of the sciences.

Likewise, Christianity, or any form of religion for that matter, must recognize the same limitations. I can make a very good argument for what is called Intelligent Design - the belief that everything in the universe appears to have been specifically designed, rather than the result of accidental and random changes in microorganisms, etc. But I cannot ever prove the existence of God through scientific inquiry, any more than the atheistic scientist can disprove it.

So, let the Christian and the scientist share data, theories and evidence in a mutually respectful discussion. My own experience of God and my decades of inquiry as historian and researcher in the sciences, more than convince me that Jesus is Lord, that I am saved by his blood, and all that this implies.

If I am right, then nothing the sciences discover will disprove that, but only add to the evidence in favour of Christianity. I

would love to discuss these things further, and perhaps this coming year we'll have a chance to do so. If anyone wishes to put forward evidence to disprove my position, please feel free to do so in a spirit of honest inquiry. That will be fun, I hope, for all of us.

Help Support Your Local Businesses SHOP LOCALLY The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

SERVICES

Wanted! Goalie for Summer Hockey, Kemptville Area. Thursday mornings 9 am to 10.20 am. Contact: admin@3point5.ca

HANDYMAN RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, SERVICES bathrooms, additions, Painting, Demolition, decks, home repair.

Drywall, Call George at Carpentry, etc 613 462 7637 Bill at 613-774-2922

CHROME MAG RIM & SUMMER TIRE, I have a set of 4 Chrome mag rims (5 bolt off a 2006 Malibu) and 4 Uniroyal Tiger Paws summer tires, 225/50R18 95T, low profile, mint condition, only used 2 summers. Asking $450 for all. pls call 613-215-0884

COMPANION WORKER WANTED

Seeking overnight companion for elderly gentleman in Kemptville. Five nights per week. $20 per hour from 11 to 7 a.m. Background check required.

Call 613-853-3276.

MISCELLANEOUS Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

Free general help for seniors in need.

Call Andrew 613-2778068

Looking to harvest cedar trees for hedges off acreages from landowners. Please call 613-799-0958

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classifieds@ngtimes.ca

Income tax service in Merrickville - John Harris CMC jgharris@sympatico.ca, 613-297-7553

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY FIRST TEN WORDS FREE

18

www.ngtimes.ca

c n

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

OPEN FOR TAKE OUT

613-258-6821

Mother's Day Specials!

2794 County Rd 43, Kemptville

Canadian . Italian . Chinese

30.99

42.49

Dinner for TWO : $30.99 Dinner for THREE :$42.49 Dinner for FOUR : $57.99

FOR TAKE OUT ONLY

57.99

FOR TAKE OUT ONLY

38.95 29.95 23.95 40.95 FOR TAKE OUT ONLY

OPEN

SUN to THURS 8 am - 8 pm FRI to SAT 8 am - 9 pm May 5, 2021

19

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Lack of pandemic preparedness and poor infection control practices in long-term care

Bonnie Lysyk Auditor General The Auditor General’s report on the response to the pandemic contained 16 recommendations with 55 action items. The actions recommended were much the same as previous recommendations made by the Auditor General. The report states, “There should be no surprises in the content and recommendations in this report. Many of the issues and recommendations have either been highlighted or recommended previously by this Office.”

There was no requirement to prepare for a pandemic, which was coupled with long-standing, unaddressed weaknesses in infection control and prevention in Ontario’s longterm-care homes and these contributed to the tragic impacts of COVID-19 on long-term care residents,

concluded Auditor General, Bonnie Lysyk in her special report on COVID-19 Readiness and Response in LongTerm Care.

“Despite very specific observations and recommendations on preparing for future SARS-like outbreaks by our Office and others, actions taken over the years have been insufficient to ensure that we would be better prepared as a province – and Ontario’s long-term care homes were among the first to be impacted,” Lysyk said following the release of the report.

“Unfortunately, neither the Ministry of Long-Term Care, nor the long-termcare sector, was sufficiently positioned, prepared or equipped to respond to the issues created by the pandemic in an expedient and effective way.”

The audit found that long-term-care homes were ill-prepared to prevent or minimize COVID-19 outbreaks due to chronic staffing shortages and inconsistent practices in infection prevention and control prior to COVID-19. As well, many residents were in rooms with three or four occupants, in homes which had not yet been required

to redevelop to the one- to two-occupant standards set by the province in 1999.

The audit found that homes with more than two residents sharing rooms tended to experience more severe outbreaks. The audit, which has 16 recommendations, also notes that the longterm-care sector is largely disconnected from other institutions in the healthcare sector. The report notes that many homes were not able to draw on the staffing and infection prevention and control expertise of hospitals and public health units when they needed it most.

“In recent months, a number of government commitments have been made to improve long-term care and this, along with continued attention to our recommendations, would go a long way toward ensuring seniors living in Ontario’s long-term-care homes are accorded the well-deserved dignity, safety and comfort that is clearly envisioned in the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007,” said Lysyk.

Background and Other Findings: This report examines the provincial and long-term care sector responses to COVID-19 from when the virus

was first detected in Ontario in January 2020 to December 31, 2020. This chapter is one in a series undertaken by the Auditor General’s Office on the province’s response to the Coronavirus Disease. Chapters 1 to 3 were released in November 2020.

• Long-term-care homes were not required to prepare for a pandemic as part of their emergency planning.

Regulation 79/10 provides a list of emergencies they must prepare for, but a pandemic is not included on this list.

• Infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures were not consistently practised, understood or inspected in long-term-care homes even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Expertise in this area resides with hospitals and public health units, but given the structure of Ontario’s healthcare system, and lack of agreements with these institutions, many homes could not benefit from their expertise in infectious disease outbreaks in the initial wave of the pandemic.

• Direction from the Chief Medical Officer of Health to contain the spread of COVID-19 in long-term-

WE'D LOVE TO HELP! WHETHER YOU HAVE AN INJURY OR COULD JUST USE SOME ADVICE ON HOW TO REACH A NEW GOAL!

PHONE

613-258-7661

|

INFO@KEMPTVILLEPHYSIO

KEMPTVILLEPHYSIO.COM

SAFE COVID PLAN IN PLACE

care homes was often unclear in the first wave of the pandemic, and initially left to long-term care home management to decide what actions to take, such as rules for resident trips outside the homes, and for staff who worked at multiple locations.

• Restricting family caregivers from visiting homes and assisting with the care of their loved ones eliminated a valuable source of care providers, which contributed to a decline in residents’ mental and physical health.

• A lack of space prevented homes from isolating residents with COVID-19 effectively, but the Ministry provided no guidance for off-site alternatives.

• The transfer of patients designated as alternate level of care (ALC) from hospitals to long-term-care homes

contributed to crowding in homes; some were already at 98% capacity.

• The Ministry decided in 2018 to discontinue proactive comprehensive inspections solely to address a growing backlog of complaints and critical incident reports.

• While non-compliance by homes with the LongTerm Care Homes Act, 2007 and its regulation remains an issue, including noncompliance with infection prevention requirements, the Ministry has chosen not to implement fines or penalties.

• The Ministry did not conduct on-site inspections of homes for two months during the COVID-19 pandemic because concerns about inspector safety were raised

History in the making exhibit calls for submission for time-capsule submitted by the Spencerville Mill and Museum Within the context of a global pandemic that none of us ever imagined would dramatically change our lives, the Spencerville Mill Foundation (SMF) seeks to honour local residents who found compassionate and creative ways to carry on. And we wish to honour the striking innovations and adaptations made by businesses and organizations, including churches, to provide services, to greatly expand their use of social media and online information, as well as generously assist those in need.

To do this, we are calling on the people of Spencerville and all communities within a 30 km radius of Spencerville to contribute stories (200 to 500 words), testimonials, photos, videos, children's artwork, artifacts and items for a time capsule which will become part of our unique summer exhibit July 2 to August 26. In addition, a special juried art show, Creativity Through Crisis: Works from a Global Pandemic, will showcase talented visual artists and wordsmiths.

Please share your experience of the COVID pandemic, what changed for you, and how you coped, whether it be comic or crazy, funny or sad. We ask the question - how will 2020/21 be viewed a generation from now? To answer, we need to capture your exceptional viewpoint of being part of history in the making.

Send stories & testimonials to Vicki at: 2020ourstories@ gmail.com Send photos & videos to Stephanie at: 2020ourphotos@ gmail.com Send a description or photo of 3-dimensional artifacts to Sheila at: 2020ourexhibit@gmail.com The deadline for submissions is June 5. Artifacts can be dropped off at the Mill on June 18 and 19. For more details, please go to www.spencervillemill.ca May 5, 2021

20

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

County Road 43 widening pushed to 2022

by Hilary Thomson The highly anticipated widening of County Road 43 is set to begin next year after a few design delays.

North Grenville Council received a presentation by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, updating them on the progress of the project. As part of their presentation, the Counties also requested that council make a few design decisions about lighting, landscaping and pedestrian/ cyclist facilities along the roughly 2km stretch from County Road 44 in the west to just east of the Colonnade roundabout.

Plans to upgrade County Road 43 have been in the works since 2010, however it wasn't until July 2020, when the federal government finally committed funding for the project, that it stepped into high gear. Consultant with ARKim Consulting, Arup Mukherjee, told council that because of this almost 11-year timeline, some of the items in their original plan were out of date. Originally, the county was planning on rehabilitating the existing two-lane bridge over the

Kemptville Creek, and twinning it with a new two-lane bridge to the south to accommodate the upgraded four lane road. After undergoing a study to look at the current bridge structure last year, it was decided that it was at the end of its life and that tearing it down completely and building a new four-lane bridge was the way to go.

"If this had been back in 2010, there might have been value in keeping the existing two-lane structure and then rehabilitating it, and we still would have lots of life left in it," Arup said. "But time hasn't been kind."

Because of the timeframe and the fact that they are now going to be building a new four-lane bridge over the Creek, they have also had to update their 2008-2010 environmental assessment data in accordance with the Environmental Assessment Act. The addendum to the Environmental Study Report will be made available for public review at a future date.

The design presented to council includes four new roundabouts: one at the intersection of County Road 43 and 44, at the entrance to Shoppers Drug Mart, at Anni-

versary Way, and just past the bridge in front of Kemptville Retirement Living. Although there has been some concern about the efficacy of roundabouts in the community, Arup says that the modern design is actually much safer than a typical intersection, which has about 48 possible conflict points. A roundabout has 21. "One of the safety features of roundabouts is that they have been shown to reduce personal injury collisions by just under 80%," he said. Signalled crossings will also be part of each roundabout to allow for pedestrians to cross the road safely.

As a partner in this project, the municipality is responsible for the cost and maintenance of the boulevard portion of the redesign. This includes the multi-use path, lighting and landscaping in the median. Council agreed with the County's suggestion of having a three-meter multiuse path on both sides of the road which will run along almost the entire stretch of the new four-lane thoroughfare.

Arup also confirmed that another pathway extension south down County Road 19 will connect the multi-use path along County Road 43

to Wellington Road, the Rail Trail and Ryan's Well Drive.

Council gave direction to the county to include decorative lighting along the multiuse path, as well as grass and trees at 10m spacing along the median. Both Councillor Kristin Strackerjan and Councillor John Barclay also suggested that they look into an option like wildflowers for the median, which would be more environmentally friendly and require less maintenance. "I think there is a great deal of flexibility," Arup said. "As long as there's a desire to put something in there, we can keep working."

Although the final budget for the project has not been finalized, Director of Public Works, Karen Dunlop, says the municipal portion will probably fall in the $5.5-$7 million range. The team at the County is now preparing for a virtual public open house to be held in May. The design will be completed and sent out to tender this year, with construction (starting with the bridge) beginning in 2022.

The Voice of North Grenville

Protect yourself against poisonous plants

submitted by Rideau Valley Conservation Authority While you are out enjoying nature, take precautions to help protect against noxious plants like poison ivy, wild parsnip and giant hogweed. These all have a presence in Eastern Ontario, lining roadside ditches, taking over empty fields and popping up along nature trails and woodlots.

Touching these plants or their sap can result in painful skin rashes and burns, particularly wild parsnip, which is sun-activated and can cause severe burns and even blindness in extreme cases.

Avoid contact with these plants by wearing long pants and sleeves and close-toed shoes and socks. The sap from these plants can contaminate your clothes, so be careful when undressing and handling your clothes after an outing.

If you do come in contact with the plants, wash the area with soapy water and stay out of the sun. If the sap gets in your eyes, wash immediately and contact a doctor.

And of course, in the midst of a global pandemic, trail users are reminded to keep two metres distance and wear a mask around anyone not from their household, to turn back if the site looks too busy, and to stay home if they're sick.

While these risks are real and must be managed, getting outside has never been more important, and the RVCA is committed to providing safe and beautiful trails to help watershed residents connect with nature. Find your local trail here: www. rvca.ca/conservation-areas

Local youth opens window cleaning business

Photo provided by Liam

by Hilary Thomson

A local university student is hoping to learn valuable skills running a window cleaning business this summer in North Grenville, Merrickville and Smiths Falls.

A biology student at Queens University, 19-yearold Liam Duff spent last summer working for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in their seed lab. Although he loved the fieldwork that was part of his position, he also spent a good portion of the May 5, 2021

summer tucked away in a lab.

"It wasn't the most fun thing, so I figured I wanted to have a bit of a change up this summer," he says.

Going into second year, Liam decided he wanted to diversify his studies and started taking business courses as part of his degree. He took his first one at the beginning of this year and found that it was right up his alley. "It was a switch up from all my normal science courses," he says. "It was really nice to be in all those kinds of classes where I get to work in a team and work with other people."

digital marketing and trying to get referrals, and seeing those other alternatives to get customers."

Liam is looking forward to learning as much as he can about running his own business this summer. He hopes to use the skills he learns to help open up his own veterinary clinic one day. So far, he is loving the experience of being his own boss. "I've definitely never had this many responsibilities to myself," he says. "It's something that I care about so much now just because everything relies on me, and I actually really like that because it makes me feel in control."

As a native of Burritts Rapids, Liam is excited to become a valued part of the North Grenville business community this summer. He has always been passionate about giving back to the community and volunteered coaching a U11 and U12 girls development soccer team over two summers before the COVID-19 pandemic. He is hoping that his business will not only help him pay for his university tuition, but also provide a great service to the community. "My goal for the

At Christmas Liam decided he wanted to do something in the business realm this summer, and after applying to a few marketing internships and jobs, he found College Pro, a company that offers the opportunity for college and university students to run their own window cleaning business while they aren't in school. "I thought it was a really cool opportunity," he says. "It obviously gives me the chance to run a business, and I knew it was going to be really stressful and all of that, but it just seemed like such a cool opportunity. I didn't really want to pass up on it."

Liam has been working since February to build his team and get his business out there. He currently has three people on his marketing team, and another three ready to do exterior and interior window cleaning, eves trough cleaning, siding cleaning, and power washing once the business officially launches on May 10.

Liam says the most difficult part so far has been getting the word out there as they haven't been able to go door to door, which would be their normal way of getting clients.

"It's a lot of transitioning into 21

community would be to just really give back and do a good job of that over the summer," he says. To get in touch with Liam and his College Pro business, you can phone him at 613-315-8118 or email

him at liamduff@collegepro. com. You can also find him on Facebook under Liam Duff Local Window Cleaner.

Grand Opening

Inside Secure monitored building, climate controlled Secured outside storage Please see our wesite at info@ebstorage.com Or phone 613.774-6161 12054 Main Street, Winchester

P: 613.774.1672 F: 613.774.6612 12205 Gypsy Lane Winchester, ON, K0C 2K0

MACHINING HYDRAULICS CNC PLASMA MECHANICAL WELDING (IN SHOP) WELDING (MOBILE) CUSTOM FABRICATION

We make Hydraulic Hoses www.dundasmachine.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

COVID-19

Information for North Grenville Residents A Provincewide Stay-at-Home Order is in Effect

For information on the provincial Stay-at-Home Order visit: covid-19.ontario.ca/zones-and-restrictions.

Working together to keep our community safe

North Grenville COVID-19 Assessment Centre

Please continue to protect yourself and others to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Located in Bell Hall (15 Campus Drive) at the Kemptville Campus. The Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

Please continue to be patient and kind with business owners and each other.

People who have symptoms of COVID-19 and/or have been exposed to confirmed case of COVID-19 should be tested.

Municipal Updates: The North Grenville Municipal building is CLOSED to the public. The Municipality remains operational to provide essential services and assistance to residents and businesses. Contact us at: general@northgrenville.on.ca or 613-258-9569.

Sign up for Mayor Peckford’s COVID-19 email updates at: www.northgrenville.ca/connect

New Dates for Bulky/Large Item Pickup:

Residents can purchase Bulky Item and Leaf & Yard bag tags online at: www.NGrecycles.ca.

Shop local and show your support for our community. Visit www.LoveNG.ca.

COVID-19 Vaccine Provincial Vaccine Booking System For details on eligibility and how to book your COVID-19 vaccine visit www.ontario.ca/bookvaccine or call 1-833-943-3900.

Individuals who are 40+ can get the AstraZeneca vaccine at a local participating pharmaces.

Visit: ontario.ca/pharmacycovidvaccine for details and call the pharmacy directly to book.

June 14 - 18 and June 21-25 Leaf and Yard Waste Collection remains the same: May 31 - June 4 and June 7 - 11, 2021

Support Local Businesses #LoveNG

Book an appointment online at www.ngcac.ca or by phone at 613-258-3192.

Call the Health Unit at 1-844-369-1234 with questions on: ► Booking, changing or confirming a vaccine appointment ► Cancelling an appointment if you received a vaccine somewhere else For information about COVID-19 visit the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit at: healthunit.org.

#LoveNG Ad Program for Businesses The Municipality has partnered with local media to offer cost-effective advertising promotion for local businesses. Visit www.investnorthgrenville.ca for more information.

Thank you for helping to stop the spread of COVID-19: 2m (6’)

STAY HOME AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

May 5, 2021

MAINTAIN 2M DISTANCE

DO NOT GATHER

WEAR A MASK

WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN

The Municipality’s priority is protecting the health and safety of our residents.

Visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus.

22 www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Gaps in Canada’s agri-food workforce due to COVID-19

by Teresa Van Raay, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture A truth that is deemed to be universal, is the fact that the most valuable resource of any business is the people.

Regardless of technology, automation or other means, human capital remains essential in ensuring the continued production of high-quality food, fibre and fuel. The entire food value chain relies on people to fill planting, production, quality control, processing and distribution roles to keep the agri-food system strong and viable.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the struggles of Ontario’s agri-food sector to attract and retain people to fill job vacancies. The Canadian Agriculture Human Resource Council (CAHRC) identified key vulnerabilities within the industry as part of its recent report titled, Understanding the Effects of COVID-19 on Canada’s Agriculture Workforce. The report offers key findings from research gathered over the past year, identifying weaknesses of current labour strategies within the industry.

The data collected to compile the report came from over 450 farm operators across Canada between November 2020 and January 2021.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) continues to prioritize workforce

challenges and address the issue of labour shortages within the agri-food sector.

This work is being done by supporting organizations that promote agri-food careers to the next generation, developing and launching the Feeding Your Future initiative, and lobbying the government for COVID-19 regulations that ensure essential seasonal workers and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) arrive safely and securely to Ontario farm businesses. Feeding Your Future aims to connect Ontario agri-food employers with Ontario residents looking for meaningful jobs.

Canada faced record levels of unemployment within the first few months of the public health crisis with around three million Canadians losing their jobs between February and April of last year. Still, agriculture employers struggled to find workers as 41% of employers surveyed could not find enough employees to fill their vacancies, and 86% of respondents believed this to be a direct result of COVID-19.

The delayed arrival or absence of temporary foreign workers in 2020 was the first shock to the agri-food sector as it left many farm employers scrambling to source local labour on short notice to ensure the planting and harvesting of spring crops was completed. It is estimated that employers were unable to fill 1 in 5 TFWS they would usually employ.

Canadian farmers, especially those in the labourintensive horticulture industry, have become reliant on essential seasonal and foreign workers. These workers come back year after year and bring expertise that only comes

with experience. And yes, at times there is lack of domestic interest in farm jobs.

The challenges of getting TFWs across the border was tremendous last spring and have certainly remained an issue in 2021. Additionally, providing accommodations to meet all the new regulations, requirements and extensive documentation became a significant financial and red tape barrier for many employers to secure the arrival of foreign workers.

Rural location, seasonality, wages and physical requirements are all key barriers to local recruitment. To support our garlic and the pork business, we have relied on a combination of local labour and contract farm workers.

We did experience labour shortages this past year with our garlic harvest.

To fill gaps in our workforce, we were able to recruit local high school students.

This experience was good overall and gave us hope for the upcoming future workforce. A number of these students will be joining us again this year. However, when hiring students or local labour, a steep learning curve exists with the potential of a high turnover rate, impacting productivity.

Lower productivity, which is a direct result of labour challenges, has resulted in an estimated total loss of $2.9 billion in sales for farm businesses across Canada. More than 60% of respondents reported production delays which impacts the whole food system. For our pork business, we are very dependent on our processing plant to take weekly shipments. Plant closures because of COVID this past year caused havoc throughout the entire food chain. We have noticed however, that local sales are increasing because

Ontarians have an appetite for eating local, want to know where their food comes from, and are making more meals at home.

The survey also noted that over 40% of employers expect a delay or termination of investments in their farm business. This poses a major issue because a lack of investment or expansion has the potential to impact the economic growth of farms and the agri-food industry According to the data, the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) was relied on by 47% of employers.

Farm businesses had to learn to adapt to virtual sales and curbside pick-up which has been met with internet connectivity and broadband issues in rural locations.

During COVID, an increased demand for local food means that more consumers are consciously choosing to purchase Ontario made products. This is welcome news for producers, but we cannot grow and raise our products without human capital. As employers adapt to the future and a new growing season, 53% of respondents are concerned about finding enough workers for the new year.

Therefore, we must continue to invest in ways that attract and retain employees to continue to grow the industry.

The report concluded that industry stakeholders play an important role in attracting Canadian workers by promoting jobs in agriculture, improving broadband connectivity and providing education for Canadians who do not have a direct connection to the agri-food sector.

Together, we can help support employers from field-to-fork to fill labour shortages and encourage our youth to consider a career in the dynamic and innovative agri-food sector.

Auntie Anabel “Anytime you got nothing to do - and lots of time to do it, come on up,” - Mae West Do your ever listen to the news some days and spit out your coffee because you hear things that demonstrate a great lack of intelligence or common sense. I gotta admit honey, it happened to me this week, when I heard a woman say she was bored of talking on the phone and watching tv, and she wanted this pandemic to end, because she was bored! Now doesn’t that just take the cake? Yup, May 5, 2021

I had to mop up that spit out coffee. Sometimes, I yell at the radio. “PLEE-EEAAESE, bored? bored?” We are in the fight of our lives, our volunteers are burnt out, there is so much to do. How could anyone be bored? Get on that phone and find a way to help.

Email a local charity to see if they need a hand. Knit some sweaters for some ducks. If yer gonna be on the phone smackin yer yack anyway, you might as well be helpin someone out.

23

Help Support Your Local Businesses SHOP LOCALLY

Buchanan, Derrill April 20, 1947 - May 2, 2011

Dad Remembering you is easy, We do it every day.

Missing you is the heartache, That never goes away.

Love Tracy and Family

Gilmer, Eileen

Our family is truly thankful for a life well lived as we announce the passing of Eileen Mary Gilmer (Rodford), peacefully at Brockville General Hospital, in her 95th year on April 24th, 2021. Eileen was born on April 22, 1927 to Angus and Florence (Kearns) Rodford.

She was predeceased by her husband, Stanley John Gilmer. She is survived by her children Karen Ince (Alan), Sheldon Gilmer (Stephanie) and Merle Laird (Grant).

She was a proud grandmother to Christopher, Jessica, Allison, Andrew, Kimia, Courtney and Connor, and step-grandmother to Richard, Susan, Stacia, Joel, Lisa, Eva, Hannah, Rachel and Moriah.

She was the adored great-grandmother to her great grandchildren, Ava, Laela, Poppy, Lilah, Meea, Lola, Chloe, Jasmine, Savannah, Evan, Emily, Sebastian, Benjamin, Andrew, Nikki, Robert, Maverick, Axel, Jeremy, Christian, Jordan, and Austin.

Eileen had a rich faith in Jesus Christ which sustained her through life’s trials. She was a long-time member of South Gower Baptist Church and later when she moved to Brockville, of First Baptist Church. She inspired hope, perseverance, and love. She was fiercely proud of her children and she was our teacher right up to her last day. She was a lifelong learner and roused courage and purpose in all who knew her. She said that she would never live long enough to do all that she wanted to do in life.

Gardening was a passion for Eileen, and it kept her moving and motivated. Her backyard was fit for any magazine cover. Her flowers are in many flower beds around the country including being used by the city of Guelph.

For most of her life, Eileen worked in the healthcare field.

She was also trained as a hairdresser and a cake decorator. Her interests were many and included anything history related, sewing, cooking and travel. She travelled extensively throughout North America, often on bus trips with good friends. She also travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo and spent her 80th birthday at Disney in Florida.

As in Proverbs 31, her children truly called her “blessed”.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of the Irvine Funeral Home, 4 James Street East, Brockville (613-342-2828) where visitation and service was held on Thursday, April 29th.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the First Baptist Church will be gratefully acknowledged.

Send condolences or make a donation online at www.irvinememorial.com.

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Acknowledgment for a local Champion

submitted by Business Improvement Association Four years is a long time in public service, especially as a volunteer. Four years as the volunteer Chair of the Board of Management of the

Old Town Kemptville BIA can feel much longer on some days, and extremely rewarding on others.

Dealing with people who are experiencing high anxiety, high levels of frustration

Suprise MOM Bring her home a Pizza!

and heightened fear because of the pandemic can make for some very difficult days and sleepless nights. Even during non-Covid times, the life of a small business owner can be precarious. Being their champion means personal sacrifice as you take on their causes, their concerns and their burdens.

Then there are days where you get to savour the sight of hundreds of people laughing, smiling and enjoying themselves at a special activity that you've spent months organizing. Or maybe you've helped a small business owner through a difficult time with some sage advice, connecting them with someone who can help them or simply by listening when they needed someone.

These days can make it all seem worth it.

Debbie Wilson has seen her fair share of both. No matter the situation, it was handled with grace, humility and empathy, even when it may have been the hardest thing that she could possibly do. Her commitment to the community that she calls home and to the Old Town Kemptville BIA is rightfully considered legendary. Always ready to step forward in a time of need and always ready to step backwards when credit is given, Debbie has crafted

a standard to aspire to as a community volunteer.

It was a sad day when we received Debbie's letter of resignation from the Old Town Kemptville BIA Board of Management. However, it had to happen. She had already served a full four-year term as Chair and a number of years as a Board Director before that. She gave it her all every day and it was time for someone else to step forward.

It was a happy day back in the fall of 2019 when she finally received some long overdue recognition as she was chosen to receive the Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award at the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Summit.

There is no one more deserving and who exemplifies true leadership more than Debbie Wilson.

"I am honoured that the Board has entrusted me with the responsibility of the Chair position. Debbie left an indelible mark in her term and some very big shoes to fill.

I look forward to the challenge of continuing her legacy of supporting Downtown Kemptville businesses and the greater community". Meagan Cumming, new Chair of the Old Town Kemptville BIA Board of Management.

A grateful Board, BIA members and volunteers extend their heartfelt gratitude to Debbie for her many hours, many personal sacrifices and considerable list of accomplishments in service to the Old Town Kemptville BIA.

Dickie Nixon. Until he came along, most politicians were spared real scrutiny in public, largely because the media kept their secrets safe from public view. There was an attitude that private lives were private, and only a leader's public affairs were fair game.

But Nixon broke through that tradition simply by being himself: paranoid, lacking in the style and grace of a Kennedy, or the intellectual and military records of an Eisenhower. He never got on with reporters and editors, and they responded by openly loathing him. When he lost the election for Governor of California, he made that famous statement to the press: "Just think how much you're going to be missing, because gentlemen,

you don't have Nixon to kick around any more."

And that was a decade before Watergate. From Nixon onwards, no political or social leader has been exempt from intense scrutiny, as reporters everywhere dreamed of being the latest Woodward and Bernstein. With social media and new technology, it has never been easier for people to reveal hidden secrets of famous and powerful people.

Sometimes, what is revealed is actually true. Muckraking journalism, but also good investigative journalism, and somehow Nixon opened that door.

Yes, there have always been scandal sheets and yellow journalism, but that was looked upon as a lesser

form of the profession, a disreputable thing in itself.

But now, every cable news network seems to have a permanent banner on screen saying "Breaking News". Old attitudes of respect are gone.

When Phillip Mountbatten died recently, the BBC gave over its entire schedule on all channels to the event. In the past, especially in the U.K., that would have been accepted and expected. Not so today. So many people complained about the extent of the coverage that the BBC had to set up a special web page to handle the avalanche of complaints.

So, I blame Richard Nixon. Or perhaps I should credit Richard Nixon. After all, looking back on the "good

We know that you've got much more to give the community Debbie, and we wish you the very best as you continue to serve a grateful community. Godspeed to you, our champion!

Heritage wood-fired brick oven operating since 1885 115 Clotheir St., E., Kemptville 613.258.2317 www.grahamesbakery.com

Home thoughts

by David Shanahan I blame Richard Nixon.

It seems like we are daily bombarded by stories of political sleaze and corruption.

People's trust in governments, in authority of any kind, is at a very low ebb indeed. And I blame Richard Milhous Nixon. Yes, there was political corruption long before Watergate and Nixon's other foibles. Other leaders had concealed important things about themselves, and I suppose very few gain power by being completely honest and open.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, for example, kept his polio hidden from the world, hiding the fact that he was unable to stand or walk unaided, and resorting to clever May 5, 2021

stratagems to appear strong and in control. I imagine this was rather important for the leader of the fight against Hitler and Tojo. In our own past, how many citizen voters knew about William Lyon Mackenzie King's habit of having conversations with his dead mother and pet dog via the exertions of mediums at seances? He said of Hitler that he "is really one who truly loves his fellow man". Yet he was Canada's longest serving Prime Minister, holding office between 1935 and 1948.

Historians are usually the first to find out about the odd and eccentric character of politicians, as they pore through the papers and diaries of the departed.

Anyway, back to Tricky

24

old days" of respect, coverup, and fawning admiration, it is not something we would want to see return. We know we have a right to know whatever there is to know about the people we elect to lead us, or the celebrities we lavish time and money on. Is there a balance we can find between two extremes: the old deferential attitude, and the current fad for complete disregard for feelings, privacy, and respect? We decide these things by choosing what to watch, what to read, and, of course, what to write.

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

UCDSB student brings strong message of support for 2SLGBTQIA+ community

Photo: Kai Flicker Kai's voice connects with last week's recognition of the International Day of Pink. The key message of the International Day of Pink, which is celebrated the second Wednesday of each April, brings awareness to how discrimination takes many shapes - whether it's based on race, age, disabilities, gender or sexuality - and this recognition day urges individuals around the world to put on a pink shirt and stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to continue to fight for equality and acceptance. Even if it means getting uncomfortable.

"In spaces where people like us don't make up half of the student body, it falls on the shoulders of educators to bring these topics to the table," said Kai. "While I understand that full blown activism may be uncomfortable for people in places of privilege, even doing so much as introducing the concept of implicit

The Upper Canada District School Board remains committed to ensuring that our students who self-identify as members of the twospirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual/2SLGBTQIA+ community feel supported and contribute to making our schools and communities safe spaces for everyone. Brockville Collegiate Institute student Kai Flicker is committed to these outcomes.

The Grade 11 student spoke with the UCDSB about how the school communities can continue its work to stand up to bullying and work toward equity and acceptance.

"Nobody is asking you to understand the trans or binary experience, but to allow us to have a space," Kai said, adding that queer people of colour have some of the highest suicide rates and it's an issue that needs to be addressed. "To ignore that unique struggle is to contribute to it."

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classifieds@ngtimes.ca

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY FIRST TEN WORDS FREE

Priority Pump Service &

Water Conditioning 613.882.7867

The Voice of North Grenville

Stay young

bias has an impact on your students."

The UCDSB is committed to an equitable education system that upholds and reflects the principles of fair and inclusive education, which should permeate all policies, programs, practices, and operations.

The school board recognizes that it must engage with communities that have not been historically honoured by the education system in order to truly prepare all students for the successful life they deserve.

As the UCDSB continues to integrate its value of equity and inclusion into its programming, supports and resources, UCDSB Director Stephen Sliwa said that it's imperative to listen to students in order to learn, grow and make change.

"Our 2SLGBTQIA+ community's priorities about safety and support are important elements to the UCDSB family. We want to support our students and we accomplish this by engaging in the difficult and often complex conversations, at home, at work, and in our classes to address the disparities in our communities," said Sliwa. "We must continue our own work to ensure that every student within our schools feels heard and included, and we must challenge ourselves, at every level of our organization, to confront our own biases and blind spots."

Hear Kai's powerful message in its entirety on the UCDSB YouTube Channel.

The UCDSB wants to remind students, parents, guardians and community members that should you or someone you know be in crisis or simply need to talk, Kids Help Phone is a 24/7 free confidential professional online and telephone counselling and text-based support in English and French.

Be Active

Signia Active Pro

Instant Fit. Bluetooth® connectivity.

Rechargeable. High-definition sound.

It’s everything you’re looking for in a hearing aid, that doesn’t look like a hearing aid.

Call to schedule your appointment today!

Sales, Service, Installations

FOR ALL YOUR PUMP NEEDS

Well Pumps - Submersible & Jet Pressure Tanks Water Conditioning Sump/ Effluent / Sewage Pumps Heated Water Lines Pump & Electrical Motor Repair Well Extensions and Conversions www.prioritypumpservice.ca May 5, 2021

2674 County Road 43, Kemptville, Ontario

Send in your letters to the editor to

613.215.1501

www.hearme.ca

editor@ngtimes.ca

prioritypumps@gmail.com

25

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

North Grenville Arts Guild co-operative experience complete!

submitted by North Grenville Arts Guild The North Grenville Arts Guild (NGAG) is pleased to announce that the co-operative art project has been completed. On Monday, April 20, the last of the canvases were turned in. Each artist added the finishing touches and prepared the canvas for Auction.

As we are back in lockdown, the Guild will bring the art to the public. Individual canvases will be showcased, along with comments from the various artists involved in each. We hope that everyone will have a chance to view the pieces before they go into the Library for the final exhibit before the Auction.

The first work, as yet untitled, was completed by the following artists: Meredith Luce, Barb Buchanan, Lisa Mackinley, Leahbeth Harding, Aleta Karstad, Mary Moore, and Caroline Marshall.

Meredith Luce started with the first step of preparing the base. Meredith said, “I wanted to keep the background abstract while still providing some framework.

I used the wavy shapes to break the canvas into sections and suggest some depth.

It was my hope that these early shapes would be simple enough to allow for a range of interpretations from future artists. I love how it has evolved!”

Barb Buchanan added to the piece next and said, “I wanted an organic feel to the canvas, with hints of nature showing through. I used yellow and green acrylics, and laid them down with a sponge.

Lisa Mackinley also added to the work. “ I defined the lines with black and red thinking to keep the possibilities of either a landscape (horizontal) or a woman's body form (vertical).

Leahbeth Harding - I felt the direction was tending towards "flow", so I created water down the middle and gold on the "shore" for focus.”

Aleta Karstad was the next artist to add to the piece.

“I received this one with swaths of contrasty stripes and a soft gray-green sweep May 5, 2021

of flowing water, separated by a narrow, rough-textured shore. I thought it could use a centre of interest but wasn't sure what, so husband Fred sketched and cut out one of his characteristic cartoon snails. I traced and painted it, and made the water more lively by emphasizing the edges of the flowing strokes,” she said.

Mary Moore added into the work also saying, “The background was very 'busy', with strong stripes. I toned it down while maintaining the movement, and turned it more toward leaves/water outdoor.

I added the water droplets.”

The final contributor to the work was Caroline Marshall. “With each consecutive

layer of this canvas, it always had a sense of ebb and flow.

As the final contributor, I felt that the water drops, snail, and vivid colours had an underwater feeling. Adding kelp, coral, starfish, a hint of an approaching creature and bringing back the turquoise, shown in the original layer, to tie the colours together, was my addition to this piece.”

Stay tuned in the coming weeks to see how the whole project unfolded! Check the North Grenville Arts Guild Facebook page (blue & green logo) to view all of the canvases and follow the progress to its conclusion.

United Counties of Leeds and Grenville County Road 43 Widening from 200 metres west of County Road 44 to 220 metres east of Colonnade Drive in Kemptville Notice of Public Information Centre of Detail Design The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville has retained AECOM Canada Ltd. to complete the detailed design for the four-lane widening of County Road 43 from 200 metres west of County Road 44 to 220 metres east of Colonnade Drive, in Kemptville, Ontario.

Revisions and Addenda to Environmental Study Report In 2010, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville completed a Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment to facilitate improvements to County Road 43 and documented the process in the Four Lane Upgrade of County Road 43, Kemptville Environmental Study Report (ESR).

Due to the time lapse between the filing of the ESR in 2010 and the initiation of detailed design in 2020, an Addendum is required.

AECOM has conducted a review of the planning and design and the existing environmental setting to ensure that the project and the mitigation measures are still valid given the current planning context.

Virtual Public Information Centre A Public Information Centre (PIC) is being held to provide the public with a study update and present the detail design, proposed construction schedule and details of the Addendum. Due to the current state of COVID-19 and the social distancing measures in place the PIC will be undertaken in a Virtual Consultation format. If you wish to participate, please use the link provided below to register.

Date: Time:

May 19, 2021 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Register:

https://tinyurl.com/CR43publicmeeting2021

The displays are available for review on the Counties website at the following link:

www.leedsgrenville.com/CountyRoad43Widening Comments To be added to the project mailing list or to submit a question or comment please contact either of the following members of the Project Team: Michael Flainek, M.Eng., P.Eng. Arup Mukherjee Project Manager Project Manager for the AECOM Canada Ltd. United Counties of Leeds and Grenville 302-1150 Morrison Drive ARKim Solutions Inc. Ottawa, Ontario K2H 8S9 C: 613-802-9735 Tel: (613) 797-6862 Email: arup@arkim.ca Email: michael.flainek@aecom.com Comments, input, and information regarding this project may be included in project documentation. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the Public Record.

This Notice issued May 5, 2021 - Accessibility is important. If you are a person with a disability and need information in another format, please contact Arup Mukherjee or Michael Flainek at the above addresses

26

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

613.860.2539 www.dialachef.ca

Happy Mother's Day

Thinking of flowers?

Think B&H

STORE HOURS

Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

301 Rideau Street, Kemptville

613.258.3014

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

Sunday May 23rd Classic mid afternoon Victoria High Tea

The sandwiches: Lemony crab and cucumber club, open face smoked salmon and avocado, Coronation chicken sandwich, eggs and chives, Apple Boursin finger sandwiches.

The scones: Old cheddar buttermilk scones, blueberry scones, with jam and clotted cream.

The canapés: Mini chicken pot pie, chèvre and walnut tartlet, Waldorf skewers, sausages rolls, goat cheese crostini.

The petits fours: Lemon drizzles slices, chocolate éclairs, mini fruit flans, chocolate cranberry cheesecake bar.

Cost is $25.00 per person (minimum 2 persons), plus delivery and HST

Tuesday May 11

1- One pot chicken drumstick with chickpeas, mint and raisins.

2- One pot chickpeas with rice, mint and raisins in coconut milk, mango cilantro salad

Wednesday May 12

1- Spinach and meat lasagna with ricotta cheese, Caesar salad.

2- Vegetarian lasagna, spinach and ricotta cheese, Cesar salad.

Thursday May 13

1- Creamy Tuscan salmon with grape tomatoes and basil, Arborio rice.

2- Creamy Tuscan tofu, with grape tomatoes and basil, Arborio rice.

Friday May 14

1- Lamb moussaka, Greek salad.

2- Vegetarian moussaka, greek salad Tuesday to Friday meals are $23.50 plus HST. $5.00 per delivery Stress free entertaining since 1992

A few kitchen tips

WE NEED HEROES

ACT NOW

May 5, 2021

- Preheat your oven 25˚F higher, as you lose heat every time you open the oven door, then set the thermostat to the desired temperature after you put your food in.

- Make your vinaigrette in plastic squeeze-able bottle, it is easy to shake, and easy to store.

- Wash your fresh herbs and wrapped them in paper towel and in an open plastic bag in the fridge, they will keep crisp and fresh for longer.

- Keep your knives sharp. A doll knife is dangerous for your fingers. Do not store your knives loose in the drawer.

Use a knife holder or a wall mounted magnet strip.

- Do not add too much salt at first, taste as you progress the recipe and adjust as necessary. It easier to add salt than removing it 27

The Voice of North Grenville

Menu # 60

Tuesday May 11th - Friday May 14th Order & Pay online www.cateredaffairs. ca 613-324-3136 $37.50 Complete Meal for 2 + HST $70.00 Complete Meal for 4 + HST All Meals include; Chef's choice of Appropriate Side Dishes & a Light Dessert

Pork Souvlaki Kebabs or Vegetable Souvlaki

Marinated Pork Kabobs - Garlic Roasted Potatoes & Lemon - Dill Rice - Vegetables Greek Salad - Tzatziki - Pita Bread

Jumbo Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

All Beef Meatballs Stuffed with Cheese in Marinara Sauce - Creamy Alfredo Pasta, House Baked Garlic Bread - Vegetables Caesar Salad

Piri Piri Chicken

Portugese Charred Pepper and Lemon Marinated Chicken (white & dark meat) - Roasted potatoes - Piri Piri Dipping sauce - Vegetables - Chopped Salad

Catered Affairs Chinese Take Out Sweet & Sour Chicken balls, Vegetable & Beef Stirfry in Light Garlic & Soy Sauce - Fried Rice, Meat Egg Rolls (1per person) Plum Sauce - Wonton Soup

Falafel Bowl

- Vegan (serve hot or cold - Self assembly) House made Falafel - Basmati rice - Tahini - Hummus - Pita Bread- Pickles, Tabouli Vegetables - Salad

Chicken Enchiladas or Bean Medley Enchiladas

Soft flour tortillas with braised chicken & beans- Pico de Gallo - Sour cream - cheddar - dirty rice - cabbage & pineapple Slaw, House fried Corn Tortilla Chips - Salad

Mar-Tini- Bites Virtual Cooking Class

Fri May 14th 6:30-8:30pm $20 per household instruction only $120 with full ingredient prep kit (food & Spirits) for 2 Learn 2 Martini’s & 3 Easy Appetizers...

Table D'hote Patio Thursday 5-7pm

Introducing AlFresco Friday Family Night on The Patio 4.30-7pm My Local Markets ‘Shop n Dine’ 1 Year anniversary Thu June 10th (Weather & Health Unit Restrictions Dependant RSVP ONLY)

www.cateredaffairs.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Watch out for Motorcycles- May is Motorcycle Awareness Month With the warmer weather coming, there will be many riders getting out their motorcycles to enjoy the season, and the OPP is cautioning all drivers to be careful, watchful and safe. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has already responded to four (4) fatal motorcycle collisions this year and is urging riders and other motorists to avoid contributing to a repeat of last year's tragic motorcycle season.

Last year marked one of the worst riding seasons in more than 10 years, with 42 motorcyclists killed on OPP-patrolled roads. There were 27 fatalities in 2019.

OPP collision investigators pointed to excessive speed and failing to yield right-of-way as lead contributing factors in the deaths. Two of this season's motorcycle fatalities are also linked to excessive speed.

"Aggressive and careless driving have no place on our roads, especially where motorcycles are involved. The OPP urges motorcyclists and other drivers to share the road safely and be alert. Motorcyclists are reminded to always ride responsibly, sober and drug-free, and to make themselves visible to other motorists. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

Please help make it a safe riding season,” said, Chief Superintendent Rohan THOMPSON, Commander, OPP Highway Safety Division.

Apply today for your Rural Clean Water grant Are you making changes this season that could improve nearby water quality? Whether you're decommissioning a well, upgrading your septic or fencing your livestock out of the local creek, you could be eligible for up to 90% of the cost in grants from the

QUICK FACTS In 2020, 37 of the 42 fatal motorcycle crashes investigated by the OPP involved no other vehicles. Almost half (20) of last year's 42 motorcycle fatalities involved riders aged 55-74 years.

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. Farmers with a completed Environmental Farm Plan can access grants for tile drainage, manure or chemicals storage, land retirement and other related projects. Non-farming landowners can access grants for

erosion controls, windbreaks, well and septic upgrades and other projects that protect local water quality. Visit rvca. ca/stewardship-grants to see if your project is eligible. For more information, contact DEREK at: derek.matheson@rvca.ca.

Slow down when passing horses and riders.

Horses can be unpredictable. Motorists should always use caution when passing a horse: • SLOW DOWN • ALLOW AMPLE ROOM AND • NEVER HONK HORN Horseback riders should ride single file on the shoulder in the direction of traffic.

ROAD SAFETY in NORTH

A message brought to you by:

GRENVILLE

www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety May 5, 2021

28

#RoadSafetyNG www.ngtimes.ca