Buskerfest comes to town this weekend
Get ready, Kemptville! The 5th annual Buskerfest is rolling into town this weekend, bringing an extra dose of laughter, music, and jawdropping talent. As cochair of Logistics & Operations, I can personally tell you that this week our organizing committee has been juggling more Ts, Is, and coffee cups than a circus clown on roller skates.
Of course, the Buskers are the stars of the show—check out this issue’s centrefold for their dazzling profiles— but behind the scenes, a whole cast of heroes keeps the magic alive. From volunteers to vendors, everyone is pulling their weight so you can enjoy a smooth, fun-filled day.
Vendors Galore!
This year’s Vendor Showcase is stacked with close to 60 insanely talented artisans and service providers. Think of it as a treasure hunt where the treasure is handmade goodies, quirky art, and more than a few “I can’t believe I just bought this” moments. Full details are in our centerfold insert— thanks to the NG Times for the coverage!
Food, glorious food!
We’ve got 8 food trucks and a lineup of dessert vendors scattered throughout the site—so you’ll never wander far from something delicious. Plus, our downtown eateries are open and ready to serve up more goodies (see map in insert). After attendees feedback, we’ve added
more rest stations and seating, but let’s be honest—bring a chair if you want the VIP comfort experience.
Volunteers = Superheroes
A huge shoutout to our volunteers, without whom Buskerfest would probably resemble a chaotic clown car. Beyond the 10-person organizing committee that works year-round, 40 extra volunteers will be on duty Friday and Saturday. And yes… we even have a volunteer coordinating the volunteers. Someone has to make sure we all know who’s doing what, or else it’s just 40 people standing around trying to look busy.
Big thanks to our sponsors!
With support from the Municipality of North Grenville, title sponsor Urbandale, and our wonderful community sponsors, plus a little help from the Experience Ontario Grant, we’re able to bring you a festival that will draw thousands of visitors, showcase incredible talent, and keep Kemptville buzzing. Fun fact: last year we tracked postal codes to snag this grant—basically proving we have fans all over Ontario.
Don’t miss Friday night!
The “First Act” kicks off at the North Grenville Curling Club on Reuben Cr., packed with activities you’ll find in the centrefold insert. Think of it as a warm-up before the main event.
The Big Day –Saturday, May 16th Prescott Street closes at 8am for set-up Event kicks off at 10am with Opening Ceremonies at the Community Stage (Prescott/Clothier) Local talent keeps the stage buzzing all day Event wraps at 5pm; street reopens at 6pm
Remember, buskers rely on tips, so if a performer makes you laugh until your cheeks hurt or amazes you with their skills, show them some love!
Get ready for a Buskerfest to remember, see you in Kemptville this weekend!
100 Women and Men Who Care Meeting
100 Women and Men Who Care North Grenville will be co-hosting our second quarterly meeting on Thursday, May 21. The nominated charities for the 100 Women this quarter are Shelter Movers and the Salvation Army Food Bank, while the nominated charities for the 100 Men this quarter are the KDH Auxiliary and the Legion Poppy Fund. Please research these charities to become aware of how each supports our community. A representative from each charity will present at the meeting.
To date, 100 Women Who Care North Grenville has raised $143,429.38, and 100 Men Who Care NG has raised $170,000 for local charities. We both partner with the Ottawa Community Foundation (OCF), to streamline the donation process. Members can make their donations through our websites:
A History of Hey Day - The Early Years
by Teresa Harrison
To celebrate 65 years since the first Hey Day in 1961, Kemptville District Hospital Auxiliary will be holding a commemorative presentation at 7 pm on the evening of Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Kemptville Pentecostal Church. The centrepiece of the event will be A History of Hey Day - The Early Years presented by Lynne Clifford-Ward and accompanied by a draw where five lucky winners will each take home a 1960s-inspired cake. We invite you to save the date and join us for this
Attention All Artists!
novel event. Tickets are $10 each and available at KDH Gift Shop. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4 pm. All proceeds to the Mammogram Campaign.
KDH Auxiliary invites you to celebrate 65th anniversary of Hey Day
by Jennifer Westendorp
You are invited to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the founding of St. James Anglican Church in Kemptville, ON.
Join us for a creative day of painting, sketching, and photography in and around the historic church, including the historic graveyard. St. James is renowned for its many stained glass windows
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: St. James Anglican Church, 35 Clothier St. W, Kemptville, ON
Activities: Create art on-site
Explore the church and grounds
Light lunch provided
Optional:
Guided graveyard tour after 3:00 PM
Admission: $15
Contact
For more information or to confirm your participation, please contact Bill Kilfoyle 343. 843.2254
bill.kilfoyle@gmail.com
or
Kemptville Rotary Bursary
Up to FOUR awards ($1000 each) will be presented annually to students who are graduating from any High School in North Grenville or who reside in North Grenville but are graduating from any alternative program (i.e.- T.R. Leger, Home Schooling, or Distance Learning). For full information and how to apply, go to: Kemptvillerotary. ca. (Apply by June 1)
The Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) Auxiliary is pleased to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Hey Day, which was first held in June of 1961. The major fundraising event is set for June 5 and 6 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre arena (285 County Road 44, Kemptville).
Hey Day is the longest-standing tradition in Kemptville, and one of the largest indoor garage sales in eastern Ontario. Hey Day is run entirely by volunteers and supported through community donations, with all proceeds going directly to KDH.
Hey Day features a wide variety of items, including clothing, linens, books, toys, sports equipment, electronics, housewares, décor, plants, baked goods, jewellery, furniture and more!
The Auxiliary is looking for volunteers to help sort donations and set up for the sale. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the Auxiliary by emailing: kdha.heyday@gmail.com
Donations can be dropped off at the municipal centre on Wednesday, June 3, from 11am to 7pm, and sorting will take place the following day, on Thursday, June 4.
The Auxiliary is expanding the hours for Hey Day this year, to reduce wait times for entry and to increase sales. It will open at 4pm on Friday, June 5, and runs until 9pm, and again on Saturday, June 6, from 9am to 1pm. The Auxiliary is also selling 50/50 tickets at Hey Day; don't miss your chance because they sell fast!
"Hey Day is such a wonderful community event that brings people together in support of our hospital," said Sandi Kelly, Hey Day Convenor. "It's heartwarming to see such comradery and teamwork amongst our incredible volunteers, and how excited people are for Hey Day each year. The bustle and buzz of Hey Day is not something you want to miss!"
The Auxiliary is once again doing a VIP Contest to win 4 passes to be first in line at Hey Day on Friday, June 5. The winner will also get a $20 coupon to Lil's Café for some refreshments, and a runner-up prize for a $10 coupon is up for grabs.
The VIP Contest is online, through the ‘Kemptville Hospital Auxiliary KDHA' Facebook page, along with the KDH Auxiliary Instagram account. Participants will be asked to ‘Like' and ‘Share' the post featuring the VIP contest, and ‘Follow' the Auxiliary on Facebook / Instagram to be entered into the random draw. The contest starts on May 27 and ends on June 3, so watch the Auxiliary's Facebook page and Instagram account for more details.
"We think it's a fun way to spread the word about Hey Day," said Sandi. "Our goal is to raise as much money as possible for the hospital, so please come out and support this wonderful event!"
For more information about KDH, please visit: www. facebook.com/kdhauxiliary.
Photo: Hey Day 2025 setting up
Invitation to Artists – St. James Anglican Church 200th Anniversary Event
by Bill Kilfoyle
St. James Anglican Church in Kemptville is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. To mark this milestone, the congregation is hosting a series of events that honour two centuries of faith, community, and local history.
The church holds a meaningful place in the history of Kemptville and North Grenville. Many notable
figures in the community’s story once worshipped at St. James, and the building itself stands as a tribute to generations past. Its 16 stained glass windows are a particularly striking and cherished part of this heritage.
As we begin our third century, we look forward to sharing these stories, and this beautiful space, with the wider community.
As part of our anniversary programming, we are inviting artists to sketch, paint, or photograph the interior of the church, with special attention to the stained glass windows.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 30
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00
p.m.
A light sandwich lunch will be available around noon, along with coffee,
tea, and apple juice.
If convenient, we invite participants to contribute $15 to help cover costs; however, all artists are welcome regardless of ability to contribute.
For more information, please contact Bill at 343843-2254. We hope you will join us in celebrating this special anniversary.
Leeds & Grenville OGS Branch Presentation
by Kathy de Souza, Co-Chair,
Program Committee
Join us on Monday, June 1, at 7:00 pm via Zoom for a presentation by Dr. David Shanahan. David will be speaking about “The People Before Us”, the original Indigenous settlement of Eastern Ontario up to around 1791. He will discuss the Saint Lawrence Iroquoian people who “disappeared” from history, the Algonquin people who controlled the region from the Ottawa Valley to the Saint Lawrence, the French and British impact, as well as the Loyalist refugees after 1783.
David Shanahan has worked as an historian with indigenous organizations and communities since 1987. Between 1999 and 2020 he was a research historian with the Anishinabek Nation (Union of Ontario Indians), working on land claims, treaty issues, and other community histories. He worked as a research historian with Nativelands Inc., located on the Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve, from 2020 - 2024. David is actively involved with North Grenville Historical Society, and publishes and edits the North Grenville Times.
To register for this presentation visit our Branch website https://leedsandgrenville.ogs.on.ca for more details.
Tending to the trails in Ferguson Forest
by Lynne Tyler, Friends of the Ferguson Forest Centre
We are very fortunate to have a gem like Ferguson Forest in our community and it is thanks to a tireless group of volunteers that the trails are well tended and there are educational events and activities in support of the Forest.
The Board of Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre hosted a thank-you on April 30 for the volunteers who clear the branches and fallen trees to keep the trails safe, lay the boards to get through the muddiest patches in spring and prune the overhanging branches, as well as the volunteers who organize and lead guided walks in the Forest and help inform the community about protecting the Forest.
At the April 30 event, after some light refreshments, each volunteer was offered a certificate of our deep appreciation for their efforts and a pine seedling, generously donated by the Ferguson Forest Tree Nursery. Steve Slack, Chair of the Trails Committee of the Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation, and Wes Herring, the President, were in attendance and added their words of thanks.
Left to right: Liz Culloch, Sarah Walsh, Jim Beckett, Lynn Paibomesai, Ed Bawden, Trish Adams, Janice Johnson Ron Arsenalut, Noel Donovan, Darren Vander Meer, Marc Nadeau, Wes Herring, Steve Slack.
It’s only words
by David Shanahan
I’ve been thinking about language (again!) recently. Language is a magical thing. Language is made up of words, designed to express ideas, explain thoughts and concepts, and describe the world around us. And words are made up of these strange symbols, a very limited number of them, put together in endless combinations to form the words. In all of the English language, there are just 26 of those symbols, yet we make them say so many things. Other languages have far more, others even less, but all are designed to do the same thing – to communicate.
And communication is with others. We use language to talk to each other for many reasons and in many ways, written and spoken. The story of the Tower of Bable tells what happened when people could no longer communicate with each other because they no longer all spoke the same language.
They separated from each other, formed distinct communities. They could no longer relate. Words are powerful. They can describe the most complex phenomena in the universe, in just three words: “I love you”. The effects are profound. The manner in which the many languages spoken on this planet came to be is fascinating, but a little vague. After all, we had to learn each other’s languages before we could tell each other our stories. I could not write this article if I hadn’t learned a different language from the one native to where I grew up. Even speaking English, it is not always easy to understand each other! Oscar Wilde once said that the British and the Americans were two peoples divided by a common language: Oscar loved words and played with language with real joy.
The really strange thing about the many languages in the world is that they are not becoming more complicated over time. Quite the opposite, in fact. In spite of what
Letter/ to the editor
Dear Editor,
Re: Chris Turnbulls' editorial on "Tools and Waste Comment on Growth and Land Use". I found this piece in line with my way of thinking; communication is paramount. Without reiterating Chris Turnbull's editorial I think that Council needs to be reminded that it is incumbent on the Mayor and Council to communicate their intentions. There is no doubt Council and the Mayor were voted in because of their perceived skills; however, as representatives and treasurers for the people of Kemptville, I would hope the decisions made by Council would have us in mind and not necessarily those who would move to Kemptville if we had more amenities; Barrhaven is closer than you think. Ian Gauthier
we often see as the progress the human race has enjoyed over the centuries, the way in which we communicate with each other is actually degrading, quite rapidly too. We use fewer words than our ancestors did, and we are less functional in the language we use. Reading a regular Canadian newspaper in the late Nineteenth Century, you find longer articles, a wider range of topics covered, and even classical references given with the assumption that readers would recognise them.
Of course, it can be argued that fewer people were literate then, and only the educated read the newspapers. This is not strictly accurate, but even allowing for these factors, most reading material these days has been “dumbed down” for regular readers who are used to reading short and simple articles, or, dare I say, posts. We are being told constantly that attention spans are shorter than before, and people won’t listen to anything unless it is colourful, simple to grasp, and does not involve too
much thinking. Personally, I think this, itself, is a simplistic attitude. Give people something worth reading, and they will read and understand it. The problem really begins with a declining standard of English, in the case of anglophone countries at least. We accept American spelling, like “center”, “favor”, etc., without complaint. Even our local M.P. and M.P.P. have been caught using American spelling in their communications. After all, what does it really matter how we spell words? Ironically, American spelling grew largely out of the work of Noah Webster and his famous Webster’s English Dictionary, where he deliberately changed standard English spelling of the time to distinguish it from British.
Even standard bearers such as the CBC are failing miserably in keeping up standards today, using the incorrect pronouns more often than not (“we are excited for the results”); and one “journalist” reported recently that someone had “been bit”
And here we go again...
by David Shanahan
The next municipal election will be held Monday, October 26, 2026. That’s just a few months away and potential candidates can now register to run as of May 1. Between now and election day, there will be a number of individuals who will put themselves in competition for the four Councillor positions and the role of Mayor. North Grenville elects its Council “at large”, meaning you get to vote for a number of candidates, and those elected will represent the municipality as a whole. Other municipalities have a ward system, where Councillors are elected to represent a specific part of the municipality and residents vote locally.
Elections for municipal government are held every four years on the fourth Monday of October. The length of term for all
by a dog. Again, does it matter if we don’t know about proper punctuation, much less proper nouns?
Should we be at all concerned that our language is changing this way?
After all, the English language has been changing constantly over time. Noone today speaks AngloSaxon, or even Shakespearean English. Change is inevitable, so should we be trying to stem the tide?
We haven’t come up with many new words recently either. Most of the ones we think are new, in technology for example, are simply words taken from Greek and Latin. “Google” may qualify as a novelty; but is it something to be proud of (or of which to be proud)? I believe it is worth holding to a standard, while remaining open to change.
After all, if the purpose of language is to communicate with each other, then we need to be agreed on how to use words, how to spell them, and what they mean. IMHO, of course. Are we down with that? Is it cool? Are we copacetic?
After all, it’s only words, and words are all I have…
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municipal elected officials is four years. The current term started in 2022 and ends in 2026. In municipal elections in Ontario, unlike other levels of government, candidates are not elected to represent a political party, although there has recently been a move towards a slate of candidates campaign together.
To run as a candidate in municipal elections, the candidate must be a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old. According to Elections Ontario, the candidate has to meet other conditions also, including:
Be a resident of the municipality, a non-resident owner or tenant of land in the municipality or the spouse of such non-resident owner or tenant;
Not be legally prohibited from voting; and not disqualified by any legislation from holding municipal office.
Candidates are also required to pay a fee of $100
($200 for head of council) and those running in municipalities with more than 4,000 electors are also required to obtain 25 endorsement signatures when they submit their nomination.
Eligible voters for municipal elections must be: a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old, and a resident OR a property owner or tenant OR the spouse of an owner or tenant in the municipality. If you are interested in running, either for a Councillor seat or for Mayor, there is an Information Session taking place on May 21 at the Municipal Centre. Presented by Sandra MacDonald, AMCT, AOMC, CMO (CAO) and Yvonne L. Robert, AMCT, AOMC,
CMO (Retired), this session gives potential andidates the chance to get the facts, ask the questions, and see if it's right for you. Anyone considering running is welcome to attend. No registration required.
The session runs from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, and is one of a number of such sessions taking place around the province in the coming weeks. The one in North Grenville is being organised by the Municipal Clerk and more information can be had by emailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca.
Driver phones police for assistance then arrested for impaired driving
Members of the Ottawa Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), have laid impaired driving related charges against an individual from Kemptville after he contacted police to request traffic control while waiting for a tow truck.
Shortly before 9:30 p.m. on April 29, OPP received a call from an individual whose vehicle was broken down on the side of Highway 417 near Vanier. The driver was requesting police attend for traffic control until a tow truck could attend. What the driver neglected to mention was that he had struck a sign with his vehicle in the City of Ottawa and fled the scene prior to police arrival. Upon speaking with the driver, police suspected the driver to be under the influence of alcohol. A roadside screening device was utilized and the driver was brought back for further testing.
As a result, a male, 59 years of age from Kemptville, faces the following charges:
Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs
Operation while impaired - blood alcohol content 80 plus
The accused had his licence suspended for 90 days and had his vehicle impounded for seven days. The accused is set to appear in an Ontario Court of Justice in Ottawa at a later date.
Team Douvris heading for Nationals
The team from Douvris Kemptville competed at Provincials, bringing home an incredible number of medals and earning additional spots at Nationals (every one of our fighters advanced). Now the team look ahead to Nationals on May 14 to 16, where these athletes will compete for the opportunity to represent Team Canada at the World Karate Commission (WKC) World Championships in Spain.
www.northgrenville.ca
What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events
Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings
Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca
Need additional information? Visit us: www.northgrenville.ca
APPOINTMENTS TO THE LEEDS AND GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL ELECTION JOINT COMPLIANCE AUDIT COMMITTEE
The municipalities of Athens, Augusta, Brockville, Edwardsburgh Cardinal, Elizabethtown-Kitley, Front of Yonge, Gananoque, Leeds & the Thousand Islands, Merrickville-Wolford, North Grenville, Prescott, Rideau Lakes and Westport are recruiting experienced professionals for appointment to the Leeds and Grenville Municipal Election Joint Compliance Audit Committee.
The Municipal Elections Act, 1996, as amended (MEA), requires municipalities to establish a Compliance Audit Committee to consider applications requesting audits of election campaign finances. The Committee may be required to appoint auditors and determine if legal proceedings are required as a result of the auditors’ reports.
Applicants with a background in law, election administration, public administration, auditing and accounting, professionals who are required to adhere to codes of standards of their profession and those with in-depth knowledge of the campaign financing rules are preferred.
Applicants should have:
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of municipal elections, including campaign financing rules;
• Proven analytical and decision-making skills;
• Experience working on committees, task forces or similar settings;
• Availability and willingness to attend meetings during daytime and evening hours over a four-year term, as required; and
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Pursuant to subsection 88.37 (2) of the MEA, applicants cannot be candidates or registered third party advertisers in the 2026 Municipal Election, or any by-election during the 2026-2030 Council term, nor can they have committed to providing professional advice to any person running for office in any of the participating municipalities. Municipal employees and members of Council are also ineligible.
The Committee’s term of office is four years, beginning in November 2026. Successful applicants, in good standing, will receive a $100 retainer annually, for four (4) years, and may receive additional compensation depending on compensation by-laws of the local municipalities.
Applicants may be required to participate in an interview process.
For further information or to obtain an application form please visit the participating municipal websites or contact the Clerk of any of the participating municipalities, or the Clerk of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.
Deadline for applications is 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026
Senior Times
June is Seniors
by Jill Woodley
In North Grenville, older adults are the quiet force behind so much of what makes this community feel like home. They are the volunteers who show up early, the neighbours who check in during snowstorms, the grandparents cheering from the sidelines, and the friendly faces who welcome newcomers with kindness and conversation.
They share their time delivering meals, driving neighbours to appointments, organizing events, supporting local
Month – Let's celebrate
churches and service clubs, and keeping community and family traditions alive. Many continue to mentor younger generations through their work, their stories, and the life lessons they pass along every day.
Older adults help build the sense of connection that makes North Grenville special. Their contributions are woven into every corner of the community, from community centres and libraries to local businesses, farms, schools, and volunteer organizations.
Once again, B&H
Grocer will be providing us a space to highlight our programs and services and collect donations at the register throughout the month of June. Over the last two years $8,000 has been donated by this giving community providing much needed funds to continue our services.
Our aging community is growing, and SCS is committed to ensuring our programs continue to grow and evolve to complement the unique needs of our older adults. We currently have 945 clients who we serve, but our funding does not grow with this increase. Fundraising and individual donations are vital for growth.
Thank you for helping us spread the word about the June Seniors Month giving, and we thank you for continuing to support us, and being community champions. Follow our social pages for our new and existing programs, or pop by and pick up a calendar and program guide to keep
you in the know!
"Coming here is the best thing I have done in years. I want everyone to know about SCS. Discover it. So much laughter and friendship. Monday euchre is the best day of my week." – Alf, SCS client (and excellent card player)
During Seniors Month, we celebrate not only the accomplishments of older adults, but also the compassion, resilience, humour, and wisdom they bring to all of us. North Grenville is stronger because of the older adults who continue to shape it with generosity and heart.
www.seniorscs.ca or call us at 613-258-3203.
by Nancy Morgan
Summers in Canada are short. While they are full of outdoor activities and spontaneity, it is never too early to start thinking ahead. People are already beginning to ask about the fall schedule and, in my experience, by September most of us are ready to return to routine with a sense of purpose.
North Grenville has a wonderfully active senior community. More and more, people here are looking for ways to stay engaged, stay connected, and keep moving in ways that feel good for their bodies. Tai Chi is one option that keeps coming up, and for good reason.
Often described as "meditation in motion," Tai Chi combines slow, flowing movement with focused attention. Unlike higher-impact exercise, it is easy on the joints and works for a wide range of abilities. That makes it especially helpful for those managing arthritis, stiffness, or recovering from injury. The movements are deliberate and controlled, so your body builds strength without strain. And because Tai Chi is practiced standing, with no getting up and down from the floor, it is a comfortable option for many adults.
One of the most recognized benefits is im-
proved balance. Through careful weight shifting and foot placement, a Tai Chi practice strengthens the smaller stabilizing muscles in the legs and core, the same muscles that support everyday activities like walking, turning, and reaching. Over time, many participants notice greater stability, more confidence in their movement, and a reduced risk of falls.
Flexibility and posture often improve as well. The continuous, circular movements encourage a greater range of motion, while the upright positioning supports better alignment through the spine. For many people, this leads to less tension and a more comfortable way of moving through the day. The mental benefits are just as meaningful. Learning a sequence in Tai Chi encourages memory, coordination, and concentration, a gentle but effective way to keep the brain engaged. Combined with slow, steady breathing, Tai Chi helps calm the nervous system and ease stress. Most people leave a session feeling both relaxed and refreshed.
And then there is the social aspect of group classes. Practicing in a class setting offers a shared experience that is supportive and encouraging, while still letting each person move at their own pace.
The Workshop Dance Studio has long been a welcoming space in Kemptville for Seniors, offering dedicated programs that bring people together. This September, they will be offering two twelve-week Tai Chi workshops led by local instructor Evvy Bures. Registration opens in June.
Try Tai Chi this fall. It is a gentle step toward feeling your best, and a wonderful way to build a new routine. After all, September is the perfect time for a fresh start, and Tai Chi might be just what you are looking for.
Electric ATVs?
by Pieter Leenhouts
After four years of outstanding experience with an electric ATV, I thought that its popularity would take off with a life of its own; but, to my surprise, it hasn't. I've used my e-ATV mainly for touring my 50 acres, but also used it with a trailer to move firewood, brush, earth, what have you, even pull logs. Plus, it came with a snowplow. So it's not just a toy.
Most important to me, however, was the ease of operation and its cleanliness – and low environmental impact. No more taking my ATV to the shop for tuneups every few years, or oil changes etc. Now, all I had to do was turn the key and regularly plug it in to charge the battery.
Since these major ad-
vantages weren't being realized by others, I recently figured if no-one else will, I would seize the opportunity to promote it.
So far I've attended two events, the second one being the North Grenville Sustainability Fair last Month in Kemptville. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and meeting all the folks there, including the other exhibitors. I was surprised at how many visitors were completely unaware that an electric ATV existed.
The next show will be the Woodland Demo Day, scheduled for Saturday May 16, from 8 am to 2 pm. There will be live forestry equipment demonstrations, a variety of woodlot/forest product vendors, food truck, play area, and walking trails. Something for everybody, and a couple of eATVs to check out to boot. It is at the Limerick Forest Interpretation Centre, 1175 Limerick Rd, Oxford Stn.
Ah Capella for House of Lazarus
Mary Moore handing over the proceeds of $3,540 to Cathy Ashby, CEO of House of Lazarus. The funds were raised at the recent Ah Capella gig in
Ah Cappella was a lot of fun to put together. We'll be on the lookout for some new (volunteer) a cappella performers for next year to put their talents towards a great cause.
Merrickville.
Pete with friend, BV, at the NG Sustainability Fair.
by Dhruv Arora
The photo captures two Baltimore Orioles (Male and Female) looking at each other on a bird feeder.
eye
Purple boots carry a powerful message across North Grenville
by Darlene Collin, BDH
As May marks Hospice Palliative Care Month across Canada, Beth Donovan Hospice is inviting the community to take a closer look at what hospice care really means through the return of its Purple Boot Campaign and the upcoming Hike for Hospice later this month.
Throughout May, decorated purple boots can be found at more than 50 local businesses and community spaces across North Grenville and surrounding areas. The campaign is designed to spark conversations, raise awareness, and remind people that hospice palliative care is about much more than end-of-life care.
“For many people, the word hospice still brings to mind only the final days of life,” says Sue Walker. “In reality, hospice support can begin much earlier, from the time someone is diagnosed with a serious or lifelimiting illness. Our role is to help individuals and families navigate what can often be a very long and difficult journey.”
The purple boots themselves carry several meanings. They represent the annual Hike for Hospice and the fundraising needed to sustain hospice services in rural communities. But they also symbolize something deeper, the reminder to walk in someone else’s shoes, to approach illness, caregiving, grief, and aging with empathy and understanding.
This year, each boot was individually decorated by participants in the hospice’s Therapeutic Art Group, making every display unique and per-
sonal. The boots are now featured at businesses and organizations throughout the community, including Mama’s Cheeky Boutique, B&H, Main Street Clothing, Kemptville Smiles, and Cranberry Hill Animal Hospital, among many others.
“We couldn’t do this without our local business community,” says Darlene Collin. “These businesses are helping us start conversations that matter and helping people better understand what hospice support looks like in our community.”
Beth Donovan Hospice provides a wide range of no-cost programs and services that support both individuals living with illness and the people caring for them. This includes caregiver support groups and education, grief counselling and bereavement programs, therapeutic art groups, volunteer in-home visiting, equipment lending, and Day Hospice programs that help reduce isolation and build connection.
The hospice’s equipment lending program also continues to serve a growing need in the community, providing mobility and medical equipment loans not only for palliative individuals, but for anyone recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.
“We often meet families long before someone is actively dying,” the hospice shares. “Caregivers are carrying enormous emotional and physical responsibilities, and people living with illness are often navigating fear, grief, uncertainty, and isolation. Hospice support is about improving quality of life, creating connection, and making sure nobody
feels alone.”
The Purple Boot Campaign also includes a community-wide social media contest. Residents are encouraged to snap a photo when they spot a purple boot, post it to social media, tag both the hospice and the participating business, and they’ll be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a participating local business of their choice.
The campaign also helps build momentum toward the annual Hike for Hospice, taking place Sunday, May 31 at the Ferguson Forest Centre in Kemptville. The event brings together families, friends, caregivers, and community members to walk in memory of loved ones, in support of hospice care, or simply to stand alongside others in the community.
Participants can choose from 1 km, 3 km, or 5 km routes, or take part in “Hike Your Way” throughout the month of May by walking, gardening, baking, reading, or doing any activity that brings people together while raising awareness and support for hospice care.
Community members are encouraged to keep an eye out for the purple boots throughout May and take a moment to learn more about the support available close to home through Beth Donovan Hospice. www. bethdonovanhospice.ca, call 613-258-9611.
Welcome to Kemptville Buskerfest
e magic is back! As we proudly enter our
h year, the spirit of North Grenville is shining brighter than ever. What started as a vision has become a beloved tradition, and we are thrilled to welcome you back to the streets for our biggest celebration of performance art yet. is festival is a true ensemble e ort. Heartfelt thanks to our title sponsor, Urbandale Construction, for their unwavering commitment—they truly fuel the heart of Buskerfest. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the Municipality of North Grenville council and sta , and the Old Town Kemptville BIA. eir dedication transforms our downtown into a world-class destination for entertainment and connection. Behind every jaw-dropping act is our tireless team of volunteers. eir energy keeps this festival alive, and we are beyond grateful for their passion. Prepare to be mesmerized! From world-class street artists to interactive thrills, this year’s lineup is our most exciting yet. While you soak up the electric atmosphere, be sure to explore our unique local shops and vendors to nd treasures you won't nd anywhere else. Mark your calendars and gather your friends! We can’t wait to create unforgettable memories with you at Kemptville Buskerfest 2026.
e BIA is thrilled to welcome everyone back for the h annual Kemptville Buskerfest! Each year, this festival transforms our downtown into a vibrant stage lled with creativity, connection, and pure joy—and 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet. We can’t wait to see the streets come alive with musicians, magicians, acrobats, and performers of all kinds. Buskerfest has truly become one of our signature events, bringing families, friends, neighbours, and visitors together to share in laughter, wonder, and those unforgettable “how did they DO that?” moments. As Chair, I want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to our incredible Buskerfest Committee. eir dedication, imagination, and countless hours behind the scenes are what make this event possible. eir work has helped Buskerfest grow from a fun new idea into a beloved Kemptville tradition— one that showcases the spirit, energy, and hospitality of our entire community. We’re so excited to host you once again in the heart of Downtown Kemptville. See you there!
Sierra Jones-Martel Committee Chair Kemptville Buskerfest Organizing Committee
Shelley Mitchell Chair of the Board Downtown Kemptville BIA
KIDZONE fun
ROTARY PARK fun
Greetings from North Grenville’s Council, and welcome to Kemptville’s Buskerfest 2026!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 16th, 2026, and get ready for a day filled with unforgettable experiences.
Prepare to be dazzled at this year’s Buskerfest – a free, one-day-plus celebration of extraordinary street talent. From jaw-dropping acrobatics to incredible music and side-splitting comedy, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
As Prescott Street transforms into a pedestrian paradise, we invite folks and families to explore Downtown Kemptville and watch as it comes alive with mesmerizing performances, delightful surprises, and thrilling entertainment. Stroll through our charming historic downtown, bursting with unique shops, welcoming restaurants, and inviting greenspaces – and experience the heart of our community on its most exciting day!
We are so proud to host what has become the signature event in Kemptville’s downtown core, and while visiting, we also encourage visitors to discover even more of North Grenville – including over 100 kilometers of scenic trails, accessible waterways, and beautiful historic hamlets.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the many passionate volunteers, generous sponsors, the dedicated organizing committee, and the Downtown Kemptville BIA for their continued commitment to making Buskerfest such a success year after year.
Whether you’re visiting from nearby or travelling from farther afield, we’re delighted to welcome you to North Grenville. May you make wonderful memories and feel the true spirit of our community during this joyful celebration. Wishing everyone a fantastic Buskerfest 2026!
Mayor Nancy Peckford North Grenville
SCAVENGER HUNT
Have a look throughout the Buskerfest site to find 10 busker images which will show images of things to enjoy at Buskerfest. Just grab a Scavenger Hunt handout at any of the 6 entrances and fill out for a chance to win great prizes.
Bouncy C|astle, Blow up Games, Kemptville Infinity obstacle course Balloon artist, Busker hat craft, Face painting ($)
Happy Little Farmstead petting zoo, Balloon artist
Bs t Take a break on our PATIO!!! NOW OPEN for the Season
The king like you've never seen him before! Silver Elvis captures audiences through movement, mystique and sheer presence that sparks excitement and awe from every audience. Peter Jarvis, the creative behind Silver Elvis, has been an entertainer & performance artist since 1979, performing across Europe, the United States, and in his home country of Canada
Look Up, Way Up! Towering over the crowd with colorful costumes and boundless energy, our mystery stilt walker will be roaming the grounds, posing for photos, and spreading smiles. Luciano Lu is an extraordinary entertainer known for his unique blend of music, dance, and clowning, all while performing on extra-tall stilts.His talent and charisma make every event unforgettable.
Be sure to catch his shows for an engaging and dynamic experience!
With over 20 years experience, Jon is a crowd favourite at festivals and corporate events across Canada. His unique show includes juggling, comedy for all ages, circus stunts, and a hint of magic. Audience quickly turns into participants, helping to complete feats of complex juggles.
Look here! As a highly specialized entertainer, Kaylie prides herself in a distinct set of skills that set her apart from others. Kaylie creates a unique brand of performance that merges sideshow arts, dance, and circus while bringing the audience on an inspirational and meaningful journey. She aims to leave the audience inspired and mesmerized through unforgettable entertainment
See more of his wild creations at ottawaballoons. com.
Watch in awe as Brad the Balloon Guy twists, shapes, and sculpts jaw-dropping creations right before your eyes! From intricate animals to largerthan-life balloon hats, Brad’s balloon art is fantastic fun for everyone. Drop by, make a request, and watch your idea come to life.
Pancho Libre performs stunts of intense athleticism and wonder. From holding his body in a perfect horizontal position on the pole, to using the Cyr Wheel to spin gracefully around the stage. Based in Montreal, Pancho regularly performs at festivals around the world, in circus’ and at corporate events. He is also multilingualFrench, English and Spanish.
Yoshi has been performing for the past ten years. He trained professionally, and taught at the Verdun Circus School in Montreal. He has appeared several times on national Television, winning the grand prize on YTV's Zoink'd. Yoshi is bilingual and able to perform in both English and French.
Twisting Magic at Your Request!
Brad the Balloon Guy
No stage? No problem. Aerial Antics takes to the sky with silks, hoops, cubes, and other unexpected aerial apparatuses. Their shows are known for bold costumes, creative concepts, and imaginative storytelling—often with a twist! Whether pouring champagne mid-air or fl oating from mysterious rigs, they’re guaranteed to bring beauty, athleticism, and a whole lot of wow-factor to the fest.
Bonjour from Montreal, Miss Fizz, the Bubble Fairy, and her stilt-walking bubble chasers are here to create fun and mayhem at Kemptville Buskerfest! Let your inner child be blown away to Bubble Land, amazed by the works of bubbles that burst into smoke on contac t.
Be amazed as Skye manipulates huge fl ames right before the crowd's eyes. His physical and silent comedy is a great fi t for all crowds. Plus, he's a local gone big! Skye combines crowd-pleasing comedy with daring unicycle tricks, slick juggling routines, and fl aming fi nales. He’s young, he’s got jokes, and he knows how to fi re up a crowd.
3×People's Choice Award winners Funniest Show Award winners
Sebastian ‘Seb’ Whipits is a Whip performer with a relaxed presence and a charming personality who has paired up with a man of few words (but many amazing sounds) DJ Fritzzz. This multiple award winning show features whip cracking, whip juggling, and an unbelievable unique duo fi nale all backed by DJ Fritzzz's Vocal magic.
Comedian Mike Wood has made 'em laugh at Glastonbury, in Dawson City, and on ships in the Tasman Sea. Mike Wood has hustled his trick bike at Coney Island, and caught a cabbage on his head in a TEDtalk. The street show he has toured the world with is an interactive comedy show full of audience participation and big laughs. He also rides his impossible bike and infl ates ties a balloon with no hands, leaving the crowd amazed!
Born of starlight and deep waters, Luna carries the mystery of the night sky and the eternal pull of the sea. Her crown glimmers like frozen spray, her voice carries like waves in the dark, and in her hands rests the crystal sphere—shimmering like a perfect drop of the ocean. She is the oracle of fl ow: guiding rivers of time, currents of emotion, and tides of destiny.
Cowguy Jon
Bubble Fairy and Stilt-walkers
Kaylie Kreatrix
Pancho Libre (Circus Artist)
Mike Wood Comedian
Luna Living Statue
Seb and Fritzzz
Silver Elvis
Stilt Walker Luciano
Yoshi Juggles
Skye the Guy
Rediscover the downtown core this season
With warmer weather finally here, it's the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything the downtown core has to offer. From waterfront activities and local shopping, to live music and community spaces, there's something for everyone to enjoy close to home.
The dock is back in for the season, welcoming residents and visitors to spend time by the water once again. Grab your fishing rod and enjoy a relaxing afternoon along the waterfront. Don't have one? The North Grenville Public Library offers fishing rod rentals, making it easy for anyone to give fishing a try.
If you prefer to explore by water, bring your kayak and dock down-
town before heading out to enjoy the local eateries, cafés, shops, and services throughout the core. It's a great way to experience the community while supporting local businesses along the way.
Just a short walk away, Riverside Park offers even more ways to enjoy the season. Families can spend time at the play structure, youth can make use of the skate park, and tennis courts provide the perfect place for a friendly match on a sunny afternoon. Together, these spaces help make the downtown area a hub for recreation, connection, and community life.
As the evenings roll in, the downtown core continues to come alive.
On Friday nights, you can
often find live music at local eateries, while the legion offers a welcoming place to gather for pool, darts, and good company. More and more, residents are discovering they don't need to travel to the city to find entertainment, great food, or unique shopping experiences.
With rising gas prices and busy schedules, supporting local has never made more sense. Whether you're looking for the perfect outfit, a delicious meal, a relaxing spa service, or supplies for your next home renovation project, the downtown core has it all.
Community pride also continues to shine throughout the area. Last month, volunteers came together to help clean and
refresh the downtown core in preparation for spring. Their hard work helped make the area look its best, and we thank everyone who took the time to come out and contribute.
That strong community spirit is part of what gives our downtown its unmistakable small-town charm. Friendly faces, welcoming businesses, and vibrant public spaces make the downtown core more than just a place to visit - it's the heart of the community.
This season, take some time to explore everything waiting for you downtown. You may be surprised by just how much there is to discover right here at home.
Florence Rintoul
Surrounded by loving family at the Ottawa General Hospital on Saturday April 25, 2026, Florence Rintoul, age 91, lifetime resident of Kemptville.
Beloved wife of the late Lloyd Rintoul and reconnecting later in life with Cherished companion Keith Crawford. Loving mom of Heather(Trevor),Scott(Suzanne), Derek(Janet),Ted (Lyn), Brian(Jacqueline),and Gertrude Mary(deceased). She was cherished grandma Flo to Evan(Tabitha), Haleigh, Michael (Krista), Ryan(Ashley), Shane(Morgan), Connor(Kandace) ,William(Taylor),Jack(Peyton), Abbey(Nolan), Torianne, Taryn (Dan), Riley, Mitchell, Angeline, Bradley, and Craig.
She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Camden, Brynn, Hayden, Lucas, Bryson, Cameron, Lauren, Brooklyn, Rhett,Sadie-Mae and Viola, who brought her endless joy.
Fondly remembered by Dwayne, Terry and Kevin,her in-laws and their spouses, and the extended Rintoul families.
Thank you to all the staff at the Kemptville District Hospital, and to the team of doctors and nurses on the Orthopedic floor at the Ottawa General Hospital for their extraordinary care.
As per Flo’s wishes Cremation has taken place. A Private Family Graveside Service will be held in the Union Cemetery in Kemptville. By family request donations may be made in Memory of Flo to the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation.
If heaven has a hockey rink, a baseball diamond, and a yarn shop, then they’d better brace themselves—because Flossie has arrived with her knitting bag, and a new watch.
When she wasn’t cheering, she was knitting— scarves, hats, blankets, the intricate and beautiful lace tablecloths, or baking pies for “Hey Day”. It brought her joy to donate her time and creations if it could help raise funds for the community.
In her later years, she perfected the art of enjoying life: time with all the kids, enjoying a coffee from her window seat, travelling tours to wherever the bus took her, cheering for the Jays, and the occasional visit to places where one might try their luck for fun. She also loved plays and concerts, always ready for a show, especially if it meant time out with good company.
She lived with humour, heart, and a talent for finding joy in the everyday. She leaves behind a family who adored her, a community who will miss her, and a knitting stash that may take several generations to sort through.
Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain, (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be shared at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
Ron's Small Engine Repair
Who sits at the council table matters –and farmers need a seat
by Drew Spoelstra, President, OFA
Across Ontario, municipal councils make decisions every day that shape the future of our communities, decisions about land use, infrastructure, services and local economies. With municipal elections coming up this October, there is an important opportunity in front of us: encouraging more farmers and rural leaders to step forward and run for council.
The agriculture and agri-food sector is a cornerstone of Ontario’s economy and rural communities, contributing more than $51 billion to the provincial economy every year. It employs 10 per cent of Ontario’s workforce, drives local business activity, and contributes significantly to municipal tax bases. Yet too often, the agricultural perspective is missing from the council table when key decisions are being made. That gap matters.
Many of the issues that directly affect farm businesses are decided at the municipal level. Land use planning determines how farm businesses can grow and expand, or whether prime farmland is protected or lost to development. Local bylaws can influence how farms operate day to day. Infrastructure decisions, from roads and bridges to
drainage and utilities, impact how efficiently farmers can move goods and run their businesses. Municipal services like childcare, long-term care, emergency response and community facilities all play a role in making rural communities places where Ontarians can live and work.
When those decisions are made without a clear understanding of agriculture, the result can be unintended consequences for farm businesses and the broader food system. That’s why having strong agricultural voices at the council table is so important.
Farmers bring a practical, solutions-focused perspective. They understand long-term planning, risk management, environmental stewardship and the realities of running a business in a competitive and uncertain environment. They are used to balancing economic, environmental and social priorities, the same balancing act municipal leaders face every day. They also bring something equally valuable: a direct connection to the land and to food production at a time when many Ontarians are increasingly disconnected from where their food comes from.
This is particularly critical as pressures on farmland continue to grow. Urban expansion, infrastructure development and competing land uses are putting increasing strain on Ontario’s
finite supply of prime agricultural land. Protecting that land base is essential, not only for farmers, but for long-term food security and economic resilience across the province.
Encouraging farmers to run for council is one of the most effective ways to ensure those considerations are part of local decisionmaking – and with municipal elections coming up in Ontario this October, now is the chance to take action.
The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) shares many of these sentiments with the OFA, and ROMA Chair, Christa Lowry, perhaps says it best when she notes that when we talk about encouraging people to run for council, we are talking about investing in the future of our own backyard. Strong local leadership today helps ensure healthy rural communities, economic resilience, and a sustainable food system for generations to come.
For those who may be considering it, it’s important to know you don’t need to have all the answers before putting your name forward. Strong municipal leaders come from a wide range of backgrounds, and the most important qualification is a willingness to serve your community and bring your perspective to the table.
There are also resources available to help. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture has various tools and
fact sheets designed to support current and prospective municipal councillors. These resources, ofa.on.ca/ resources/encouragingfarmers-to-run-for-municipal-council, help explain how municipal government works, outline key issues affecting agriculture, and provide practical guidance for those interested in running for office.
For any OFA members considering a run for council this fall, OFA’s province-wide Member Service Representative team is also available to connect OFA members with information and support on key issues facing farmers and rural communities. ROMA is the rural voice of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), and AMO has also developed a suite of resources designed to help Ontarians decide whether to throw their hat in the ring for a municipal council position. We encourage farmers and rural leaders to think about the role they can play in shaping their communities. Whether it’s putting your name on the ballot, supporting a candidate, or simply starting the conversation, every step helps strengthen local leadership. Because when agriculture has a voice at the council table, the entire community benefits.
Talia's Take We're choosing memories over homework
by Talia Hreljac
We're going on a trip soon, and my oldest daughter came home and asked me if I had emailed her teacher to ask for extra work for her while she was away. I asked her if she wanted to do work on vacation and she said no, but that's what some kids do while they're travelling so they don't fall behind.
I thought about it for 2.4 seconds before 100% deciding that my kids will not be doing homework on vacation. They won't be doing extra reading assignments. They won't even be thinking about school, because that completely goes against what vacation is all about. And,
truthfully, my kids are still little enough that missing 10 days of school won't be the reason they don't make it into Harvard. The fact that their mom needs a calculator to make sure that 2+2=4 is what's really going to hurt them in that department, but I digress.
Vacation is about connecting with your family. It's about recharging and leaving your worries behind. It's about having different experiences, meeting new people and trying new foods. Just because they aren't in a classroom doesn't mean they're not going to be learning things every day. Like, for example, how broke mom and dad are going to be after spending $92
on ice cream and desserts every day.
That led to another conversation too. Why are there awards for the least number of absences? Why are we celebrating kids pushing through sicknesses and not taking a mental health day when they need it? We should be encouraging our kids to listen to their bodies and stop and slow down when they need to.
Kids are experiencing higher levels of burnout than ever before, and it's because we're not allowing them to be kids. We need to stop forcing them to grow up so quickly and just enjoy the years where the biggest responsibility they have is choosing which cereal
to eat in the morning and, gasp, it may even be the one full of sugar and mini marshmallows. Let kids be kids, I say! So, for 10 days, if you need my kiddos, they'll be enjoying the pool, snacks, and entertainment. They'll also probably be driving each other bonkers and we'll probably all yell at each other at least once a day on the trip; but, if you look at the pictures, all you'll see is a caption that says, "Love my family and the memories we're making #Blessed." But just know, it took two threats and a promise of more ice cream to get those smiles for the camera. And I can't freaking wait.
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11. In place of 12. Cuts lumber
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22. Charitable gift
24. Dye trees
25. Poplar variety
26. Useful
27. High point
29. Omit
30. Drill
31. Ceiling supports
33. Small songbird
34. Someone too lazy to read
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Mental Health Initiatives Fund opens
The Municipality of North Grenville is now receiving applications for the Mental Health Initiatives Fund (MHIF). This funding program is designed to help local organizations bring meaningful mental health initiatives and access to mental health training to community members. Mental health is foundational to both personal and community well-being. Through the MHIF, the Municipality is investing in local ideas that help reduce stigma, strengthen community connections, improve access to support services, and foster long-term wellness for residents of all ages.
"Mental health challenges can affect all of us. We know that some of the most meaningful solutions begin right here in our own communities," says Nancy Peckford. "Over the past several years, Council has sought to prioritize mental health through enhanced youth programming and partnerships that strengthen local crisis response and support services. This fund builds on that commitment by empowering community-led initiatives and helping residents access support when and where they need it most."
The MHIF supports projects that:
· Break down barriers to mental health services and improve system navigation
· Increase mental health literacy and everyday coping skills
· Promote positive mental health and well-being
· Reduce stigma and foster inclusive, supportive environments
Grants ranging from $500 to $3,000 are available and may cover up to 75% of total project costs. Eligible non-profit, charitable, and community-based organizations serving North Grenville residents are encouraged to apply before the application deadline of June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Full program details and application forms are available at northgrenville.ca/mentalhealth
For assistance with the application process, please contact:
Tammy Hurlbert, Manager of Community and Leisure Services 613-258-9569 ext. 123, or at recprograms@northgrenville.on.ca.
The Municipality of North Grenville remains committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of residents through meaningful partnerships, local leadership, and community-driven initiatives. The Municipality looks forward to supporting innovative local projects that strengthen connection, compassion, and community wellness across North Grenville.
The Cancer Kicking Cousins keep on fundraising
by Carol Miller Snook
We are a family team with members from the Miller family, many of whom reside in Kemptville. Since starting in 2013, the team has raised almost $80,000 for cancer research through Relay for Life, Neon Night, and, currently, the Terry Fox Run. Fundraisers include a annual yard sale, bake table, euchre tournaments, and many
more, the majority of which are held locally. Follow us at Cancer Kicking Cousins Fundraisers on Facebook to see what we are up to.
Our next fundraiser is a yard sale and bake table at 505 Clothier Street East on May 30 starting at 8:00 am with lots of great items and sweet treats. All proceeds are donated to the Terry Fox Foundation.
Kemptville, Ontario KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE is open Monday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm daily for drop-in programming. Ages 11 to 19. Jr. Youth Night 3rd Monday of the month from 6pm to 8pm. Ages 8 to 11. No pre-registration required. All programming at KYC is FREE. Follow us on Facebook to view other scheduled events and programs.
NORTH GRENVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB: Meets from 7 - 9 PM on the 1st Wednesday of each month (Sept. - June) at Grenville Mutual Insurance, 380 Colannade Dr., Kemptville. Welcoming photographers of all skill levels. Email contact@ngphotoclub.ca for more info.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MONTHLY SUPPER at Holy Cross Church Hall 503 Clothier Street West. Suppers are held at 5:30 p.m. on the last Thursday of each month, September to November and January to May. Cost $10 per person, $5 for a child under 12 and $25 for a family.
Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome
LEGION EVENTS
FRIDAYS - OPEN 3PM TO CLOSE
May 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
Come in for free Pool and Darts - Everyone Welcome DROP IN EUCHRE on Fridays starting at 7pm FOLK CLUB May 12th & May 26th - 7pm-9:30pm KUKES ay 19th - 7pm-9pm
General Meeting May 20th - - 7:30pm
AC/DC LIVE TRIBUTE SHOW May 30th8pm-11pm advance Tickets $20 or $30 at the door (tickets available at the legion or online at ACDCLIVE.CA)
NG DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptivlle, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155
YOUNGSTERS OF YORE Held at the Tallman Room of Kemptville Library on Water street.Starts at 2 pm every Thursday, so arrive before to get a chair.
“Mingle with us having a cup of tea and snack after our weekly guest speaks We welcome All Ages!
May 14 - Debbie Wilson - Grahame's Bakery History May 21 - Roundabout Rules - James Drake May 28 - Gardening for everyone - Angela Donkersteeg
FRIENDSHIP LUNCHES are offered to everyone every Friday. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship and fellowship at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.
NG COMMUNITY MEALS ASSOCIATION Every Tuesday, 4-7 PM Free or by Donation Dinner ( serving dinner until 6:30 pm) Where: Pvt. Blake Williamson Memorial Hall, (Old Fire Hall) 25 Reuben Cres.Everyone is welcome. Bring clean indoor shoes
FRIENDSHIP CAFÉ is open to the community Tuesday's from 10 to noon. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a hot beverage, a sweet treat and some friendly conversation all at no cost. At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St.
TUESDAY COMMUNITY HUB hosted by the House of Lazarus All are welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, community services assistance are just a few of the weekly programs. Stop by and visit or contact House of Lazarus directly at 613-989-3830 for more details. Upstairs at St. John's United Church at 400 Prescott St.
MODERN SQUARE DANCING in Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:00 - 9:30pm. North Grenville Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Robert Taylor (613) 853-5634, or email grenvillegremlins09@gmail. com.
NORTH GRENVILLE MEN’S SHED The NGMS provides a safe and friendly environment for men to enjoy coffee and conversation, and do projects that benefit the community. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 8:30 to 10:30, at 2 Oxford St. West. Contact Peter Ivay (343-598-1174) : northgrenvillemensshed@gmail.com for more information.
KEMPTVILLE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. The are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church.
NG PRIDE: 2SLGBTQAI+ Seniors and allies meet 2 - 4pm the first and third Sunday of each month at the NG Library. Join us for coffee, chat, cards and shenanigans. Looking to stay connected, informed, and inspired in retirement?
JOIN THE PROBUS CLUB OF NORTH GRENVILLE a friendly group of retirees who meet monthly for conversation, laughter, and thoughtprovoking presentations. Gatherings take place the third Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Hall. For details, email n.g.probus97@gmail.com
CAREGIVER COFFEE is a welcoming monthly drop-in for caregivers to pause, connect, and feel supported. Join us the last Tuesday of each month from 1–3 PM at Beth Donovan Hospice. Free, casual, and open to all caregivers.
EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners,Tuesday, 28, May 12, 26, June 9, 23, July 7, 21, August 4, 18. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m.
BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners, Tuesday, April 7, 21, May 5, 19, June 2, 16, 30, July 14, 28, August 11, 25. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m.
WIZARD CARD GAME at Pierce's Corners, May 3, June 14, August 9. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m.
KEMPTVILLE UKULELE PLAYERS meet 3rd Tuesday (April 21), Kemptville Legion Lounge, 7 pm. Contact mary.moore@cedarlanestudio.netformore info.
THE NORTH GRENVILLE CONCERT CHOIR PROUDLY PRESENTS . . . JUST SOME NICE SONGS
22 May, 2026 at 7:30pm, St. John’s United Church, Kemptville 23 May, 2026 at 3:30pm, The Pews, Merrickville 24 May, 2026 at 3:30pm Kemptville Pentacostal Church, Kemptville Tickets available at B&H in Kemptville or online at aftontickets.com/ngcc Adults $25 / $10 for 12 & under (online only) Tickets at the door. https://northgrenvilleconcertchoir.com/
The CANCER KICKING COUSINS team is holding a yard sale and bake table at 505 Clothier Street East on Saturday, May 30, 8:00 am until people stop shopping. A large variety of items and a table full of sweet treats…something for everyone. All proceeds are donated to the Terry Fox Foundation through the Terry Fox Run in Kemptville in September.
OPEN HOUSE AT THE KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE with a light lunch at noon and our AMG to follow at 1pm on June 13th. Can you please post this info in the community section of the paper?
BUCK'S GROANERS
SPEED EUCHRE 10X10 at Pierce's Corners April 26, May 24, June 27, July 26, August 23. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m. 10x10 means you play 10 games with as many euchre hands as you can within 10 minutes per game, for unlimited points. Stick the dealer: if everyone passes, the dealer must call a trump suit. If you like to take your time when playing euchre, this version is not recommended. For information, send an email to debiar@ymail.com. St. John’s United Church is seeking a reliable contractor to provide weekly janitorial services as directed by the Chairman of the Property Committee. The contractor will be responsible for keeping the church building clean, tidy, and accessible for the congregation, staff, and community groups, and will hold valid commercial liability insurances.
Which part of the body dies last? The eyes, because they dilate.
Mate’s got an obsession with feet. I didn’t believe him at first, but then I realised he was pulling my leg
100 crates of Red Bull stolen. I don't know how these burglars sleep at nigh
Preference will be given to candidates with commercial cleaning experience.
For more information or to apply, please contact the Property Chair at stjohnskemptville@gmail.com.
Common Sense Health
There's no one medical truth
by Diana Gifford-Jones
Advice has a habit of changing. One decade, eggs are dangerous. The next, they're back on the plate. Butter was once a villain. Now it's got its place. Coffee? Bad, then good, then possibly essential –depending on which expert you ask. It leaves people wondering: if the science is so clear, why does it keep shifting? Medicine has never been one unified story. Believing that can lead you badly astray.
All things in life are shaped by human nature. Bright ideas compete. Smart people argue their cases. Institutions defend themselves. And when a belief becomes widely accepted, questioning it can be problematic. Yet history shows that today's "settled science" often becomes tomorrow's revision.
Part of the problem is that we talk about medicine as though it were a single, consistent approach. It isn't. Around the world, and across time, very different models of health have developed. Some focus on drugs and surgery. Others emphasize nutrition, environment, or the body's internal balance. Even within modern Western medicine,
This is an opinion column, and for over 50 years, a lot of what's been shared has rubbed the medical establishment the wrong way. That's because there has been little patience for hypocrisy and groupthink. If something doesn't make sense, in medicine, politics, or anything else, you might read about it here.
Op-ed:
there are competing schools of thought. And they don't always ask the same questions or look at the same evidence.
Take something as simple as vitamins. Most of us were taught vitamins are there to prevent deficiency diseases. A little vitamin C to avoid scurvy. Enough vitamin D to protect bones. Just enough to get by.
But some researchers have asked a different question: what happens if the body is given not just "enough", but far more, under careful supervision? Could higher levels change how the body functions under stress or illness? That idea makes many experts uncomfortable. Yet it reflects a broader truth about biology: the dosage matters.
A cup of coffee can
sharpen your mind. Ten cups will do something very different. The same principle applies throughout the body. Substances that are helpful at one level can behave in entirely different ways at another.
Unfortunately, once a particular way of thinking becomes dominant, it tends to crowd out alternatives.
Medical training, research funding, and professional reputation all reinforce what is already accepted. Over time, that can make the system less open to new or unconventional ideas.
There's another layer to this as well. The body doesn't operate one chemical at a time. It works as a complex network – systems interacting with systems. Nutrients, hormones, and enzymes influence each other in ways that are still not fully understood. Some approaches to medicine look at these interactions closely. Others study one factor at a time, because that's easier to measure and test. Neither approach is inherently wrong. But they can lead to very different conclusions. And that's the point. When experts disagree, it's not always because one side is foolish or uninformed. Often, they are simply looking at the problem through different lenses, asking different questions, using different methods, and defining success in different ways.
The role of the Pharmacist in medicine
by Anupraj Upreti, Community Pharmacist
I recently read the article, “The Easiest Thing to Fix in a Struggling Healthcare System,” in The North Grenville Times, and it raised an important conversation about practical solutions for improving healthcare access in Canada.
As a pharmacist working in Canada, I see every day how strained our healthcare system has become. Patients often wait hours at walk-in clinics or emergency departments for conditions such as uncomplicated urinary tract infections, minor eye infections, nasal congestion, insect and tick bites, and other common ailments. These are conditions that, in many cases, could be safely assessed and treated without requiring a physician or emergency room visit.
One of the most practical solutions is to further empower pharmacists as a primary point of contact for frontline healthcare.
Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals in the country. Community pharmacies are open extended hours, often without appointments, and are already deeply integrated into local healthcare delivery. In several Canadian provinces, pharmacists already have
prescribing authority for minor ailments, but the scope varies significantly depending on where a patient lives.
For example, in Alberta, pharmacists with additional prescribing authorization can independently prescribe and order laboratory tests, allowing them to manage patient care more comprehensively. In other provinces, including Ontario, pharmacists’ prescribing authority remains more limited and condition-specific.
If provinces worked toward harmonizing pharmacists’ scope of practice across Canada, drawing on the most effective elements already proven successful in different jurisdictions, pharmacists could play a far greater role in reducing pressure on clinics and emergency departments.
This would not only improve access to timely care, but would also allow physicians and emergency departments to focus on patients with more urgent and complex medical needs.
Another valuable solution is improved triage within emergency departments. Having trained personnel identify patients with minor, non-emergency conditions and redirect them to appropriate community-based care, including pharmacies, could
significantly reduce unnecessary ER congestion.
For this vision to succeed, however, pharmacy practice itself must continue to evolve.
Pharmacy technicians should increasingly lead the dispensing process, fully utilizing their training and expertise. This would allow pharmacists to dedicate more time to clinical responsibilities such as patient assessment, prescribing for minor ailments, medication management, chronic disease monitoring, and preventative care.
At the same time, public understanding of pharmacy must change.
Community pharmacies should be viewed not simply as places to fill prescriptions, but as healthcare institutions. Patients can help support this transition by recognizing that thoughtful
clinical assessment takes time. Pharmacists must be given the opportunity to properly evaluate symptoms, consider treatment options, and apply clinical judgment. When this happens, they can provide safe and effective care that benefits the entire healthcare system.
Canada’s healthcare challenges will not be solved by a single change. But expanding pharmacists’ clinical role, standardizing scope of practice across provinces, and optimizing pharmacy workflow could be among the most practical and achievable steps toward meaningful improvement. It is time to fully recognize pharmacy as an essential part of primary care - and to work together to make that vision a reality.
The Gifford-Jones mantra has been to push back against that tendency. It means you should be cautious about believing that any one voice speaks for all of science. When you hear a confident medical claim, it's worth asking a few simple questions. What exactly was studied? What wasn't? Are there other experts who see it differently? And if so, why? These aren't the questions of a cynic. They're the habits of an informed consumer.
This column offers opinions on health and wellness, not personal medical advice. Visit www.docgiff.com to learn more. For comments, diana@docgiff. com. Follow on Instagram @diana_gifford_jones
The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville
For you Lacto-ovo vegetarians who avoid meat, fish, and poultry but still eat animal products like dairy and eggs, today's recipe may be a sure-fire hit. Mind you, anyone who would like a great breakfast or luncheon treat might very well wish to give a Cauliflower Omelette a whirl.
Cauliflower Omelette
Ingredients
1 ½ cup of finely cut cauliflower florets
1 medium sized onion, a red one if you want some extra colour and flavour
6 extra large eggs, beaten with 1 teaspoon of crushed garlic
4 tablespoons of milk or cream
3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons of butter
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon of thyme
Preparation:
Cook the cauliflower in boiling salt water until the cauliflower is tender, then drain
In a 10" nonstick skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic, onion and pepper
Once sweated for 5 or 6 minutes, add the cauliflower and cook for a couple of minutes
Mix the Parmesan into your egg mixture and pour evenly over the cauliflower and onions
Cook on moderate heat till the omelette is set
Slide the omelette onto an oven-proof serving dish
Place under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the surface (this is optional)
If you wish, you can sprinkle some more Parmesan over the omelette just before serving. You carnivores can add a couple of slices of maple flavoured ham cut into thin strips just before pouring the egg mixture into the pan. Serve with slices of your favourite Grahame's Bakery bread and my personal favourite, a bold dark roast coffee
All the best to you for May and the beginning of the patio season. Please continue to keep in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
The Food Corner
Our plan to protect Ontario is fighting for every steel job
As
Rumours and meetings about the proposed prison
by David Shanahan
Recent comments by the Ontario Solicitor General, Michael Kerzner, regarding the province’s plans for expansion of the prison system have led some to wonder about the proposed facility in Kemptville. There were questions about whether the plans would go ahead, if there would be an increase in the size of prison, and the financial impact that might have on North Grenville in general.
Mayor Peckford has made a number of statements since then, seeking to clarify the situation as it stands:
“To be crystal clear on the Govt of Ontario's intentions, I have reaffirmed with MPP @ Steve Clark and the Government of Ontario the following.
- The proposed Correctional facility in Kemptville (should it come to pass) is slated to be a 235-bed facility, consistent with the Province's original planning and environmental assessment materials released in 2020. There has been ZERO indication of any change to that scope, and no dialogue with Council or Municipal staff about a mega jail.
- The current prior-
ity within the Ministry of the Solicitor General is the Brockville site where a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to build the new Brockville Correctional Complex and expand the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre has been announced. The project will add 295 new correctional beds to the system .
- Council has insisted all along that the province pay its way to offset infrastructure impacts for any Correctional facility here.”
In addition, a meeting was held in Toronto with officials from the Solicitor General’s office to get further clarity on the government’s plans for the Kemptville facility. The meeting was attended by Mayor Peckford, Deputy Mayor John Barclay, CAO Karen Dunlop, and MPP Steve Clark. In a report on the meeting, Mayor Peckford restated that:
“While the announcement of the provincial Correctional facility in 2020 was totally unforeseen, and made by the Ministry without ANY consultation, the reality is that it is entirely within the Ontario government's purview to pursue.”
However, the government officials were also reminded of the need for ongoing communication
Redemption
Having made a rather rash statement regarding a friend of mine who had mentioned seeing Meadow Larks and Bobolinks, which I hadn't checked out with
him for accuracy, I duly did just that. He very kindly invited me to visit him and his lovely riverside property. What a lovely two or three hours I had there too!
and community engagement before moving ahead with the facility, noting the importance the residents of North Grenville placed on ensuring that local infrastructure would not be negatively impacted by the needs of the prison in future.
A major concern expressed at the meeting was regarding the parcels of land on the site of the prison that would not be needed by the facility. It has been the aim of the Municipality to gain title to those acres for the use of the community. Mayor Peckford pointed out that the NG Council “have
been asking the province to allow us to purchase or transfer ANY available provincially owned lands given the closure of the Kemptville college... This is an approx 80 acre parcel adjacent to the proposed site (south of College road) that Council has asked to be transferred to the Municipality as soon as possible”
The original timeline for the building of the facility was considered “unreasonable” and an updated schedule has not yet been drawn up. The saga continues.
Who knows where the Times goes
by Christy
The North Grenville Men’s Shed revamped two bathrooms at the Kemptville Youth Centre in April. They were able to roll up their sleeves and lend them a helping hand to accomplish the project. George, Al, and Steve putty, sanded, primed, and painted. Their attention to detail and time spent on the project is appreciated by the Youth and Staff. In the photo, is Christy Melvin, Operations Manager, is catching up on the local news on one of the best seats in the house.
At first I was by myself, until he joined me later to point out the birds that I had missed, but not entirely. On arriving by the river's edge, and by a quite large tree, I got a glimpse of movement on the trunk of it. Lo and behold, there was a Northern Flicker just disappearing around the trunk away from me and then it went up onto a branch. It wasn't very light where it was, but I got a couple of shots of it, which I was able to make something of once I got home to download and edit.
Not long after that, my friend appeared and explained where the Meadowlark might be and offered to get his golf cart to drive me to the front of his property to try our luck there. But, before we had time to do that, we spotted an Osprey dropping down beyond a small bit of headland just across the river from us. We
waited for it to re-appear, but we were out of luck. However, just as we about to turn away, a Great Blue Heron flew past us on its way up the river. It took us rather by surprise, so I didn't get a picture of it either! That wasn't the end of watery surprises, because a low flying bird skimmed past us just above the water and looked like some sort of duck or Merganser, but it didn't stop for us to get a picture to refer to for identification.
We bounced our way up to the front of his house and watched some Tree Swallows going back and forth into one of the nesting boxes he has there. They didn't seem too perturbed that we were there and carried on regardless of us, lovely! From there, we went even further forward and heard and spotted a Meadow Lark on a cable on the other side
of the road from his property. I was able to get some long distance shots with my camera whilst he observed it through his binoculars. We drove up and down hoping that the bird would move across to us, which it eventually did, but only after he had put his machine away and our farewells had been said. He had disappeared inside, so I decided to use my car as bird-hide and then heard the bird singing quite nearby. As you can see, I managed to capture a beautiful sighting of it in full voice!
Regarding the Bobolinks, I don't think that they are back yet! Stay safe and well.
Cheers, John Baldwin
Baldwin's Birds
Northern Flicker
Tree Swallows
Meadow Lark
Melvin, Operations Manager, Kemptville Youth Centre