Issue 20, May 28, 20206

The Voice of North Grenville

The Voice of North Grenville

Reaching by direct mail 8,900 homes and businesses in North Grenville

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May 28, 2026

Vol. 14 No. 20

Ontario investing $18.8 million to build new school in Kemptville

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L to R: Shelley Montgomery, Director of Education, Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, MPP Steve Clark, Trustee Brent Laton, Chris Cummings, Chair, Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario The Ontario govern- au Lakes, was at Holy ing a modern learning ment is continuing to Cross Catholic School environment for educadeliver on its plan to pro- in Kemptville last week tors to inspire and chaltect Ontario and ensure to announce Ontario is lenge students to reach students have access to providing $18.8 million their full potential and modern classrooms by in- to build a new Kempt- empower them to chase vesting $1.6 billion in 79 ville Catholic elementary big dreams," said MPP school construction proj- school in the growing Clark. "I've been proud to ects across Ontario. The community. MPP Clark deliver funding from our investments will support said this project will de- government to support growing communities by liver 306 new elementary the many infrastructure creating over 29,000 new student spaces and 73 needs in the fast-growstudent spaces and over new licensed childcare ing community of North 1,900 licensed childcare spaces for local families Grenville, including new spaces so students have in the Catholic District schools for all four local the modern learning School Board of Eastern boards of education."

"Student success spaces they need to suc- Ontario. ceed in their studies and "This is an invest- starts with having the prepare for in-demand ment in the future of our right environment to careers. children and it's great learn," said Paul CaSteve Clark, MPP for news for students, fami- landra, Minister of EduLeeds-Grenville-Thou- lies, and educators in our cation. "We're building sand Islands and Ride- community. We're creat- the schools students

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need, and we're making sure they get built quickly and on schedule. With stronger oversight and accountability through the Putting Student Achievement First Act, we are ensuring projects are delivered on time and focused on students, so that parents can be confident their children have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive."

"This investment represents a significant commitment to Catholic education in North Grenville. As our communities continue to grow, it is essential that we provide modern, welcoming learning environments that support students academically, socially, and spiritually," said Chris Cummings, Chair, Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario. "We are grateful to the Ministry of Education for recognizing this need and partnering with us to support families in Kemptville."

"Our focus is always on meeting students where they are and ensuring they have access to high-quality Catholic learning environments close to home," said Shelley Montgomery, Director of Education, CathoCont'd on page 2

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Hey Day, Eastern Ontario's largest indoor garage sale, is almost here! Packed with thousands of items, it will take over the Municipal Centre Arena in Kemptville on Friday June 5 and Saturday June 6.

This is an annual fundraiser for the Kemptville District Hospital, with all proceeds going to support patient care. It takes a small village – more than 300 volunteers and 10 months of planning - to make the event happen.

Some useful tips to keep in mind: - Donations can be

dropped off at the Municipal Centre, Cty Rd 44 in Kemptville, on Wednesday June 3, between 11am and 7pm. No donations will be accepted outside these times.

- Hours are Friday June 5, 4pm to 9pm and Saturday June 6, from 9am to 1pm.

- Bring small bills or change. $50 bills are not accepted, however there is an ATM in the lobby.

- On Saturday, specially marked bags are sold for $5 and you can fill them full from any of the tables that are participating .

- There are 25 ‘Sec-

Cont'd from front page

The Grenville Troubadours present the Coffee House Sing-Along

lic District School Board of Eastern Ontario. "With provincial approval and funding now in place, we can move forward with a new school that responds to enrolment growth in Kemptville and better supports students, families, as well as early learning and childcare needs in the community."

"A school is so much more than a building – it becomes part of the heart of a community. Today's announcement represents an investment in young people, in families, and in the future of North Grenville," said North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford. "On behalf of council and the municipality, I want to thank the Province of Ontario, MPP Steve Clark, and the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario for this crucial investment in our growing community. These new student and childcare spaces will support local families for many years to come."

The Capital Priorities program supports the construction of new schools, permanent additions, renovations, and school purchases. This year's funding will support a combination of new school builds, expansions, and retrofits across the province and is part of Ontario's commitment to provide more than $22 billion over 10 years to support new school construction, renewal and improvements.

The new Kemptville Catholic elementary school will be located at a site to be acquired in Kemptville.

tions' throughout the Arena, including Books, Linens, Toys, Clothing, Horticulture. Furniture, Tools, Electronics, The Boutique, Crafts, Art, Sporting Goods, Outdoor Furniture, etc. As well, a Bake Sale will be held in the Arena lobby, and the canteen will be selling sandwiches, hot dogs, drinks and snacks. All proceeds from all of these will go to the hospital.

You can contact us at kdha.heyday@gmail. com, or call 613-447-4492.

Thanks so much for your support We hope to see you there!

Tripoly & the Grenville Troubadours (left to right): Doug Hendry, Glenna Hunter, Arthur McGregor, Laura Drover, James Clugston, Elizabeth McNally, Helen MacGregor, John Baldwin, Bev McArthur.

Photo: Dan Sprin Local songsters Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours will be presenting their latest sing-along show the weekend of June 5 and June 6. The Coffee House Sing-Along will feature songs from the hey-day of the coffee houses of the 1950s and 1960s that did so much to nurture the careers of so many musical icons as well as establishing folk music as a powerful force of social commentary and change. As with all the Troubadours' shows, words will be provided (although in this case, probably not much needed!) and the participation of the audience is positively encouraged.

Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours is a group made up of some of the most talented singers and performers in North Grenville with a long history of entertaining. The group's sing-along shows have been a staple of the area for four years and their performances have benefitted many local charities and community groups.

The shows will be at 7pm on Friday, June 5, at Winchester United Church, and 7pm on Saturday, June 6 at St John's United Church in Kemptville. Tickets for both shows are $20 and are available from the respective church offices as well as online at https://tripoly.ticketsplease.ca.

Tickets for the Kemptville show are also available at B & H Grocers in Kemptville.

Proceeds from the Kemptville show will go to St John's outreach program as well as to support the House of Lazarus.

The group extends a warm invitation to all and, if you know someone living alone, please bring them along so we can all sing together - it really is powerful medicine!

VOLUNTEERING IS THE

He a r t b e a t OF OUR COMMUNITY

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BUSKERFEST 2026

by Talia Hreljac, Executive Director.

Downtown Kemptville BIA Did you join the thousands of people who filled Downtown Kemptville for Buskerfest during the May Long weekend? From the moment Friday evening began at the North Grenville Curling Club, the excitement was already in the air. Young aspiring performers gathered to learn from some of the very best buskers around, discovering the magic, creativity, and confidence it takes to entertain a crowd. The evening continued with a dazzling

preview performance from the buskers themselves, giving everyone a taste of the incredible talent still to come. As the sun went down, the Glow in the Dark Dance Party lit up the night and kept the energy going.

To say it was fun would be an understatement — it was pure magic.

Then came Saturday, and it could not have been a more perfect day. Sunshine filled the streets as Downtown Kemptville came alive with music, laughter, incredible performances, delicious food, and an atmosphere that felt electric from start to fin-

ish. Families, friends, and visitors gathered together to take in the entertainment, whether watching returning fan favourites, discovering brand-new performers, or cheering on talented local acts who proudly took the stage at Buskerfest this year.

Children laughed and played in the Kid Zone while crowds lined the streets, completely captivated by the talent and energy surrounding them. Everywhere you looked, there were smiling faces, moments of wonder, and a sense of connection that reminded everyone why Busk-

erfest has become such a beloved tradition in our community.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Buskerfest Committee, whose countless hours of hard work, passion, and dedication brought this incredible weekend to life.

Events like this do more than entertain — they bring people together, create lasting memories, and showcase the vibrant spirit of our community.

And of course, thank you to the many volunteers who gave their time and energy to help make the weekend such a tremendous success. Buskerfest simply would not be possible without you.

Buskerfest 2027 already has big shoes to fill after such an unforgettable weekend, so make sure you mark your calendars for next year’s May Long weekend, because if this year proved anything, it’s that Buskerfest is pure magic you do not want to miss.

Celebrate Spring

by Sheila Fawcett Spring Tonic invites you to celebrate the arrival of spring with Village Voyces Chamber Choir and Malala Women’s Choir of Spencerville. The choristers will perform two concerts of music to sweep away the cobwebs from a winter that seemed to last too long. Their varied program features uplifting songs by Canadian composers such as Connie Kaldor, James Wright, Stephen Smith, Kim Baryluk and Leonard Cohen, and is rounded out with choral favourites by Moses Hogan, Ysaye Barnwell, George Harrison and Morten Lauridsen.

Concerts take place on Sunday, May 31, 3:00 pm at St. Andrews-Knox Presbyterian Church in Spencerville and on Monday, June 1, 7:00 pm at St. John’s United Church, Kemptville. Concert admission is by good will offering in support of palliative care and Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan CW4WA, a Canadian NGO in partnership with UNESCO to make the right to learn a reality for Afghan women and girls.

May 28, 2026

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Editorial

Don’t forget to dance

by David Shanahan There’s a saying I like: “Everyone has a story”.

Each of us is a unique individual with a unique life story to tell. And there’s a song for every story. That is the beauty of music, of song: there is one for every mood, every situation, every moment of life. Song and music generally allows us to express whatever is in our hearts and minds at that moment, and that is a priceless gift.

Two ways to illustrate that: Shakespeare put it in the mouth of Lorenzo in The Merchant of Venice. "The man that hath no music in himself, Nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds, Is fit for treasons, stratagems, and spoils; The motions of his spirit are dull as night, And his affections dark as Erebus: Let no such man be trusted." Another illustration: in one of their concerts

years ago, Peter Yarrow, of Peter, Paul and Mary fame, asked people to imagine Richard Nixon singing “Puff the Magic Dragon”.

He claimed it would instantly reveal Nixon’s character, because, he believed, you can’t lie when you sing.

I’m not sure about that, to be honest. Nixon actually loved music and played a fine piano in his day. But it is true that when people try and sing songs outside their personality’s range, they do sound wrong, somehow.

But that’s another story (and I’m sure there’s a song about it somewhere). One thing I am sure of is that there is no music in Hell.

Music and song express the human heart and no matter how sad or tragic, they have to come from there, or they sound insincere.

Dance is like that too, I suppose. Have you ever watched a floor full of people dancing? Did you ever see such an incredible range of action and movement anywhere

else? Individuals can come alive when they dance, especially when it’s “free range”, as it were. Put on a rock and roll song, or disco, for example, and the gyrations and self-expression are a wonder to behold, once people lose their inhibitions and let loose.

Others choose to focus on ballet, or tango, or waltz, and they find their expression in those more structured forms. But it is still an expression of themselves.

Music moves us, song lyrics can reduce us to tears, or anger, or laughter. Nations choose their national Anthem to say something about how they see themselves as a people. Some songs are martial in tone, or full of love for country, etc.. But, interestingly, some countries have adopted alternative anthems to the official one. Listen to Scots singing “Flower of Scotland”, rather than “God Save the King” and

see what I mean. Or, an alternate anthem I find really marvelous is the Australian one written Bruce Woodley of the Seekers and Dobe Newton of the Bushwackers, “I Am Australian”.

Fantastic song that includes all generations of Australians, from the Indigenous peoples to the most recent immigrants.

The chorus says it perfectly: “We are one, but we are many; And from all the lands on earth we come. We'll share a dream and sing with one voice: ‘I am, you are, we are Australian’”. Take a listen on YouTube: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=KrLTe1_9zso. If ever there was a time when countries needed to sing about what unifies them, it is now, when anti-immigrant racism is rife. It’s a theme Canadians could get behind too, though “Oh Canada” is pretty good too!

We all go through times in life when it seems dark, when it’s hard to find the spark, the drive and the fun

that makes life worth living.

Each of us finds that spark in their own way, according to our personality and circumstances. Not everyone thinks they can sing, or dance, but everyone actually can, just not always in ways others may find soothing or pleasant! Bob Dylan doesn’t sound at all like a Bing Crosby. Leonard Cohen doesn’t sound like anyone. But they are living the lyrics they sing: they interpret, not just recite. That’s what we all can do.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be music, and dance does not have to be taken literally. What brings you joy? What makes you smile? It may be your work, your hobby, your family.

It may be something special only to you. That can be your dance. That can be your song. Whatever we do, we can express ourselves in all our moods. Don’t be content to wallow in the dark. Even if it is the midst of tears, let it out, let it say what you maybe can’t oth-

Letters to the editor Dear Editor, How come the closed facilities near Burritt’s Rapids are not being considered for reuse. They own the property and could tear the condemned buildings down without buying new land.

It would probably cost less without angering anybody.

(Just a thought). I may be wrong about them owning the property.

Brian Ayers Dear Editor, We would like to respond to the recent letter expressing concern about Buskerfest’s proximity to the cenotaph. The Kemptville Buskerfest Organizing Committee holds deep respect for our veterans, and we take great care to ensure the cenotaph is treated with dignity. It is never used for programming, never obstructed, and remains fully accessible to anyone who wishes to visit it throughout the event.

In many cases, having families and children nearby actually encourages meaningful conversations.

With no schools now located close to the cenotaph, many students no longer encounter it during ReMay 28, 2026

membrance Day ceremonies. During Buskerfest, we have seen parents take a moment to explain its significance - an important form of community-based remembrance.

Across Canada, cenotaphs are intentionally placed in central, hightraffic areas so they remain visible year-round.

Community events happen around them regularly farmers’ markets, parades, festivals, charity runs, and more.

Commemoration and community life coexist respectfully in towns and cities nationwide, and they do so here. Our veterans fought and sacrificed so that we could live freely, gather as a community, and enjoy the kind of vibrant life that Buskerfest brings.

We believe many would appreciate seeing families, neighbours, and talented performers filling the downtown with joy.

Sincerely, Kemptville Buskerfest Organizing Committee Downtown Kemptville BIA

Dear Editor, I was once told by someone not to expect justice in this world, because there is none.

After reading the book, “Five Little Indians” by Michelle Good, I am inclined to believe this is true.

It is the saddest, most heart-breaking account of human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. How these people, and also the RCMP included, could do what they did is unimaginable.

The horrible and deliberate abuse of these very young children is unfathomble, a very real attempt at a total genocide.

Kath Piché

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285 County Road 44, Kemptville Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca

erwise say. What you otherwise can’t express. That is the beauty and wonder of songs and music. You may have a particular song or piece of instrumental music that meant something to you at a special time, or that allows you to break out of the silence.

Thank you for the music Wolfgang Mozart, Cat Stevens, Ludwig van Beethoven, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Frederick Chopin, Johan Bach, the Gibb brothers, Van Morrison, Joni Mitchel, Paul Simon, Rodney Crowell, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and innumerable others who gave us a voice when we had none of our own. But, whatever form your “dance” takes, indulge yourself. Take the time and allow yourself joy and fun. Take the time to find out what it means for you to dance. And, as one of the greats, Ray Davies of the Kinks, advised us all: “Don’t forget to dance”.

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CUPE 5678 condemns deep staffing cuts at UCDSB CUPE 5678 and the Ontario School Board Council of Unions (OSBCU) strongly condemn the Upper Canada District School Board’s decision to move ahead with significant staffing cuts despite a crisis in understaffing and growing student needs across the board.

The board recently notified the local that it plans to eliminate 31.32 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, including early childhood educators (ECEs), instructional assistants, link instructors, ESL instructors, and a settlement outreach worker position. The cuts

also include restructuring of the LIFT program, which provides additional academic and emotional support for students who are not formally identified with exceptionalities but still require extra support.

CUPE 5678 represents approximately 1,650 fulltime, part-time, and supply workers at the Upper Canada District School Board. Members include educational assistants, secretaries, registered early childhood educators, office clerical staff, custodians, information technology staff, library technicians and more.

“These cuts will be devastating for both students and education workers,” said Jacob Casselman, president of CUPE 5678. “Our schools are already critically understaffed. Instead of investing in the supports students clearly need, the board is eliminating frontline workers who provide direct care, intervention, emotional support, and stability in our schools every single day.”

These cuts are especially concerning given recent findings from the Ontario Auditor General’s report on special education oversight, which included

Here is what positive change could look like from CARP, the Canadian Association of Retired Persons The time had come. My mother, who had lived alone in our family home for over 50 years, was no longer able to do so safely. Her care needs had increased, and recent falls made it clear that something had to change. It was time to consider long-term care.

My mother raised two daughters and lived a full, vibrant life. She was social, loved gardening, and music was at the heart of who she was. She played the piano, sang in choirs, and our home was always filled with song. She baked the best chocolate chip cookies, and our house was also full of laughter, the occasional argument, and, above all, love and connection.

We didn’t want to move her into a place where she would simply be “looked after.” We wanted her to feel welcomed, safe and happy—to feel at home. So, we began visiting long-term care homes.

Home A was a threestorey brick building with gardens around the foundation. Each floor had 32 beds. Our first impression was of long, dark hallways lined with laundry and medication carts. There was little activity. Residents were either in bed or sitting quietly, often alone, looking out their windows. A large dining room held tables for four. Staff appeared pleasant and professional, but rushed, focused on completing tasks. It looked and felt like a hospital.

May 28, 2026

Home B was also a three-storey brick building, with gardens out front.

Each floor had 32 beds, but they were divided into two smaller, 16-resident areas.

Each resident area included a cozy living room and a kitchen with a large table.

Bedrooms were arranged around these shared spaces.

Here, the atmosphere was entirely different. It felt warm and inviting. There was chatter, laughter, and music playing softly in the background - something that sounded like Lawrence Welk. Residents sat together enjoying freshly baked muffins with coffee or tea.

The pace felt relaxed. It felt like a home.

Transforming “institutions to homes” means organizing care so residents feel they belong. It means staff know each resident, not just their care needs, but their life stories, preferences and what brings them joy. It means flexible routines instead of rigid schedules. It means relationships, between staff, residents, families and volunteers, are at the heart of daily life. It also means creating smaller, home-like environments where people can gather, participate, and engage in meaningful ways.

While many long-term care homes in Ontario still reflect a traditional, medical model focused on tasks and efficiency, change is happening, albeit slowly.

Innovative approaches are demonstrating that care can be delivered differently.

These models have been shown to improve mood,

the Upper Canada District School Board. The report found inconsistent implementation and oversight of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), as well as failures to ensure students received the supports outlined in their plans and that families were not always provided the resources necessary to help their children succeed.

“That report confirms exactly what education workers at UCDSB have been saying for years: students need more support and more staff in schools, especially ECEs and frontline support workers, not less,” said Casselman.

UCDSB education workers have witnessed a troubling pattern of silencing workers who raise concerns about staffing and funding. Last year, the board issued letters of reprimand to education workers who signed an e-action campaign calling for increased education funding and improved staffing levels at the Upper Canada District School Board.

“Our members were reprimanded simply for speaking up about the conditions students and workers are facing and pushing for better supports for students,” Casselman said.

“Now, after ignoring the voices of UCDSB education workers, the board is doubling down with even deeper cuts.”

The OSBCU says these cuts reflect a broader pattern driven by chronic underfunding of education in Ontario since 2018. CUPE 5678 and the OSBCU are calling on the province to properly fund education and on the UCDSB to immediately reverse these job cuts.

I met a woman…

reduce responsive behaviours, and increase resident engagement. Other innovative models or a hybrid of models are under development and evaluation.

These models share common elements: Small, home-like settings of 12–16 residents Relationship-based care that fosters community Staff chosen for empathy and emotional intelligence Flexible daily routines shaped by residents’ preferences Greater direct care time and consistent staffing Active involvement of families and volunteers Most importantly, they recognize that quality of life matters just as much as quality of care.

When residents live in environments that are engaging and familiar. Where there is music, conversation, touch, humour, and meaningful activity, their mood, sense of purpose, and overall well-being improve. These should not be exceptions. They should be the standard.

None of us want to move into long-term care.

However, when it becomes necessary, it should be a place that offers more than accommodation, care and safety; it should offer connection, dignity, and joy.

Not just a place to live, but a place to belong.

So, which home would you choose?

Originally published by Fifty-Five Plus Lifestyle Magazine 5

by Marguerite Boyer A few days ago, I passed by a woman I've known for years. Like me, she's now a senior who spent most of her life working hard. She's always been the kind of person who greets you with a big smile, warm hugs, and a generous heart.

But on this particular day, something was different. There was no smile, only stress and worry written across her face. When I asked what was wrong, she told me she was about to be evicted from her rental home due to the owner's death and the sale of the building.

She has been searching for a new place to live here in North Grenville, but nothing comes close to matching her pension. Her income doesn't even cover the cost of rent anymore. This is a woman who worked her entire life and contributed faithfully to her pension plan. But pensions have not kept pace with the rising cost of living. Since COVID, rents have skyrocketed, three or four times higher in some cases. For many seniors, it has become nearly impossible to afford rent and still have enough left for food.

When I spoke with Janne Ritskes of Shalom Homes, she told me she receives at least five calls a week from seniors in the same situation. These are people who fall under the radar, people who did everything right, yet still find themselves facing homelessness.

Our system is broken. The baby boomer generation has finally reached the age where many are vulnerable, and far too many are finding themselves in crisis through no fault of their own, whether due to divorce, the death of a partner, or the relentless rise of inflation.

At 78 years old, Janne has made this her mission. She has already changed the lives of four seniors by providing safe, affordable housing. But her vision is bigger now: she plans to build 15 to 16 more small homes, and Shalom has partnered with the Municipality to make it happen.

We need to take care of our seniors. This is where your support can make a real difference.

The Toonie-a-Day jars have been placed in many local businesses, with more on the way. If you're an individual or family who can afford to donate a toonie a day, please consider starting your own jar, or contact Janne for a ready-made one.

Every small act adds up. Together, we can ensure that the people who built our community aren't left behind.

Places where you can find toonie jars are Fast Eddies, Tanda Shoes, Seniors Community Services, Brewing Oasis, Brewed Awakening, the Kemptville Legion, Royal Lepage, and many more.

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First Parkinson’s Superwalk coming to North Grenville

by Outpacing Parkinson's - Kemptville Superwalk Team Parkinson's Canada's annual Superwalk, held in September in cities and towns across Canada, celebrates individuals, families, and communities who aim to "outpace" the varying effects of Parkinson's disease by raising awareness, developing support networks, researching therapies and medical treatments, and encouraging positivity. It is a mood-boosting event, with a focus on gathering and moving forward, together.

North Grenville is holding its first Superwalk, in Kemptville, on September 13, 2026.

The event will be held from 11:00 am -1:00 pm, at the Armoury in Riverside Park (Reuben St.). Registration starts at 10:30 am.

We'll be using the multidistance path, which has an even surface for all forms of mobility. There is no required distance, though we will have indicator markers as guidance, and it is

May 28, 2026

not a race! After the walk, there will be snacks and some refreshments available at the Armoury. There is free parking at Riverside Park, as well as accessible bathrooms and water. We encourage everyone to be "green" and bring their own water bottle.

Kemptville: Outpacing Parkinson's is a North Grenville based team that combines those of us with Parkinson's, our families and friends, and community supporters. Anyone who wants to join the team, and/or donate, can do so at: https://donate.parkinson.ca/ goto/outpacingparkinsons.

The QR code at the bottom of this article will also enable access to the site.

Groups can register as their own team, if they want: https://donate.parkinson. ca/site/

Rural overdose and housing create crisis

by Heather Badenoch Substance use, homelessness, and overdoses are not only urban challenges. Across rural and remote communities in Lanark, Grenville and Leeds, accidental overdose deaths are rising, emergency department visits remain persistently high, and more people are living without stable housing, including in encampments across rural parts of the region.

To respond, Lanark County Mental Health has launched the Lanark Integrated Frontline Team (LIFT), a new mobile clinic delivering healthcare, substance use support and social services directly to people facing the greatest barriers to care.

“People in rural communities deserve access to healthcare and support where they are, especially when traditional systems are difficult or impossible to navigate,” said Garry Laws, executive director of Lanark County Mental Health.

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“LIFT is reaching people who often fall through the cracks, providing care earlier, building trust, and helping prevent health crises before they become emergencies.”

Recent local data from Lanark, Grenville and Leeds shows: An average of 11.4 emergency department visits per week related to opioid and drug toxicity over the past year An average of 1.7 hospital admissions per week Emergency department visits have remained elevated consistently from 2018 through 2024 Surges of up to 23 emergency department visits in a single week Peaks of up to five hospital admissions in one week The data also shows repeated spikes in hospital visits, suggesting periods when the local drug supply becomes even more toxic and dangerous.

One LIFT client had been repeatedly calling 911 for prescription refills because they lacked access to primary care.

Through nurse practitioner visits, medication education, coordinated mental health support and transition into an NP-led primary care program, that client’s 911 use dropped from five calls in two-and-a-half months to one call in three months.

Another client initially sought only harm reduction supplies, but outreach staff recognized signs of serious illness.

Through ongoing engagement, field assessment, antibiotics, wound care coordination and community paramedic follow-up, the client received treatment for a significant abdominal infection that required continuing care.

“Across Ontario and in our local communities, the unregulated drug supply continues to create urgent and complex health risks,” says

David Amot, Unregulated Substance Use Health PHN Coordinator at Southeast Public Health.

“The Southeast Public Health partnership with LIFT is an important collaborative approach for providing responsive, evidence-informed care to people who may not otherwise have access to traditional health and social services. By meeting people where they are with low-barrier, judgment-free support, this initiative helps prevent overdoses, reduce harm, and connect people to the care they need, when and where they need it most.”

LIFT is a partnership between Lanark County Mental Health, Lanark County Paramedic Service, Lanark County, and the South East Public Health Unit. LIFT is funded by Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program, which strengthens prevention, harm reduction, and treatment services.

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The Voice of North Grenville

A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS

PARKS WITHOUT ENCAMPMENTS

Learn how we’re protecting the province at ontario.ca/SaferOntario Paid for by the Government of Ontario

May 28, 2026

7

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The Voice of North Grenville

Kemptville Douvris' Journey through Nationals

by Kemptville Douvris Nationals have come and gone for the team, and several incredible athletes have earned invitations to represent Team Canada at the WKC World Championship. Within our dojo we have 9 Gold medalists, 5 silver medals, 1 bronze medal and four that made the fourth-place invitation.

Nationals is an experience unlike any other for these kids. They train all

year with one dream in mind: continuous improvement and, ultimately, a chance to compete at the World Championship. They put in long hours, attend tournaments throughout the season, and fight hard at every event, but Nationals is a true goal. Most tournaments last one day, and athletes compete for a single result. At Nationals, they prepare for two intense days of competition, all for

one of four spots in each division and an invitation to join Team Canada.

The Nationals weekend is filled with hope, excitement, anxiety and disappointment for everyone involved, athletes and parents alike. The night before competition, the team was invited to an open mat at one of the Ottawa dojos, where fighters piled in to train together. It is incredible to watch kids and

Kemptville Jaguars Women's 19U Team makes history in inaugural game

The Kemptville Jaguars Women's 19U Tackle Football team

by Tanya McKechnie On Saturday May 16, 2026 your Kemptville Jaguars Women's 19U Tackle Football team made history in their first game vs. BelAir Lions at Minto Sports Field in Ottawa!

From the opening kickoff to the final whistle, the team showed determination and resilience against an experienced Bel-Air squad.

More importantly, the athletes demonstrated the leadership and heart that reflect the core of the revamped May 28, 2026

Kemptville Jaguars program.

While the Jaguars ultimately fell 66-6, the score was far from the focus of the day. For the athletes, coaches, and supporters, the game represented something much bigger: opportunity, growth, and the beginning of a new chapter for female tackle football in the area.

On offence, Quarterback #90 Zoe Tiriwangasi showed incredible composure throughout the game,

making smart plays, and etching her name into history by scoring the first ever touchdown in Jaguars Women's 19U history.

On defence, linebacker #5 Brooke McCarlie was an absolute force, playing with relentless energy and toughness, establishing herself as a dominant presence on the field. For their outstanding performances, both athletes were recognized as the Jaguars' first-ever ‘Players of the Week'.

"This group of young 8

young adults practice with the very people who will become their opponents the next day. These are fighters from across Canada helping each other improve before they compete against one another. What a sport.

The next day, there are seminars at our headquarters dojo, and once again kids from all over the country pile in for training from Senseis who have previously won world championships. They are excited to meet these Senseis and especially proud to know that one of the main instructors is Douvris Sensei Nico, owner of the Kanata Douvris dojo.

On the first day, Sensei Jayce and Sensei Massimo competed in the synchronized kata division, while the rest of the team focused on registration and weighins. In true family fashion, we all showed up, not just to register, but to support our team members as they competed. The athletes sat around the ring, waiting and watching for hours, even though they were not competing themselves that day.

They were there simply for their teammates. We came out of that day with a gold medal team.

The second day brings even more anxiety and excitement because it is the women worked hard and fought as a team" said Coach John Parkes. "I am proud of how supportive and determined they were throughout the game. Even when things went wrong they stuck together and made the most out of the situation. Our goal is to take this experience and continue building a strong women's football program for our community."

A special shoutout goes to the Jaguars supporters who brought energy to the stands, creating a loud and buzzing atmosphere that made it impossible not to feel the pride and passion behind this team.

The Jaguars are looking forward to hosting the Cornwall Wildcats on Friday May 29, with a 7pm kickoff, at the Kemptville Campus Football Field.

Fans are invited to a Friday Night Lights event featuring a full canteen/BBQ, with Moose FM on site.

Bring your lawn chair, and let's pack the sidelines!

first day the full team competes. It becomes a whirlwind of running from ring to ring, cheering at ringside for as many teammates as possible, and parents stepping in for one another.

The kids help each other warm up, train, and hold one another up through every result. It is a hard day because not everyone wins.

It is long, emotional, and exhausting, and everyone leaves hoping for a good night's sleep before doing it all again on Day 3.

The third day goes by just as Day 2 did. This is the day everyone finds out where they stand. This is where Team Canada is made. One of the biggest highlights of Day 3 was Sensei Jayce winning the Grand Championship, where the gold medalists from all the men's weight divisions fight. Sensi Jayce beat last year's world champion, Ryan Bennett, despite Ryan's much larger stature.

Talk about inspiring for our kids; this is our Sensei. The top four athletes in each division earn a medal and their sign-up sheets. They fight, the scores are tallied, and emotions run high.

Some leave the mats on top of the world, while others leave disappointed and in tears. There are injuries, blood, sweat, and heart-

break, but there is also resilience. Tears dry as teammates reach their goals.

Injuries are bandaged, and athletes return to ringside to cheer with smiles and heartfelt congratulations as another teammate accomplishes a dream. What an amazing display of maturity and sportsmanship by everyone involved. In the end, they have all won something, even if they do not realize it yet. Our team was victorious, with several athletes selected in the sparring divisions: Gold: Sensei Jayce, Sensei Remy, Sensei Sierra, Matteo, Thomas, Mazin, Lexi, Leena Silver: Jairdan, Emmett, Hudson Bronze: Sensei Massimo Fourth Place: Fernando, Alex, Zain, Landin From here, the work continues. The athletes who made the team will train six or seven days a week for months in preparation for the World Championship, which will be held in Spain during the last week of October. Congratulations, Douvris Kemptville. Your hard work is paying off, and every one of you should be proud. Spain, here they come.

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The Voice of North Grenville

Why a Tractor Company might Summer Fun at belong in your Investment Portfolio Kemptville Infinity

by G. Lee Mosley is an Investment Advisor for IPC SecuritiesI live across the road from what feels like miles of farmland, and it's hard not to admire the dedication of our local farmers. From sunup to sundown, John Deere tractors hum across the fields - symbols of hard work, resilience, and pride in our agricultural roots here in North Grenville. Just outside of town, you'll find farms growing corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay, along with cattle and horses.

The equipment farmers use today is a far cry from what our grandparents had. It's incredible to watch these machines in action, planting and harvesting with precision. No one depends more on the environment than farmers.

They're not just feeding us, they're feeding their own families. And when Mother Nature throws a curveball, it can impact their livelihood for years.

That got me thinking

about the tools they rely on and how those tools are evolving. As a licensed investment advisor, I usually look at companies through the lens of profitability. But I also wanted to explore the environmental side of things. So, I reached out to my friend Finlay McKay, a Portfolio Manager at Value Partners Investments, to ask why John Deere is part of his Sustainability Leaders portfolio.

"John Deere is a highly durable and growing company, helping farmers tackle major challenges using innovative technology by reducing input usage, optimizing operations down all the way to the individual plant," Finlay explained. "We expect this to drive the new phase of growth for Deere, deliver profit growth for farmers, and promote sustainability for the planet."

One example of this innovation is their "See & Spray" technology, which uses cameras and computers to target only

the plants that need treatment. That means fewer chemicals, lower costs, and healthier land for future generations.

And while John Deere is doing good work in the field, it's also been a strong performer in the financial world. The company has grown steadily over the years thanks to its innovation, loyal customer base, and focus on solving realworld problems.

As a financial advisor, I believe in investing in companies that reflect our values - businesses that support the people and industries we care about. It's also important to know what you own, and why.

John Deere is just one example of a company that's built to last, and that's why it's included in some of the sustainability-focused investment options I explore with clients.

Just like farming, building wealth takes patience, planning, and a willingness to weather the seasons.

NG Pride - JUNE EVENTS – info@ngpride.ca OR admin@ngpride.ca Date

Time

1

10am

Kemptville District Hospital Progress Pride Flag raising

2 3

2:305:30

NG Pride Office/Resource Centre open Parish Hall, 40 Campus Drive

5

8:45am

5

9pmmidnigh t

Municipal raising of Progress Pride flag Y2SLAY Pride pop-up Night Club/Dance

7

NOON

7

9 10

Event

Pride Parade – Riverside Park to Campus 1pm-5:3 Pride Afterparty, Kemptville 0 Campus 2:305:30

10-23

NG Pride Office/Resource Centre Parish Hall, 40 Campus Drive

Mini-progress flag to all visitors

Tickets $10

A community without a local newspaper is a community

Prescott Street Family-friendly

Taste the Rainbow!

Skittles for visitors

THE GREAT COMMUNITY CHALK Register via CHALLENGE admin@ngpride.c a

13

6:308:30

Queer Trivia at Salamanders

$5 individual $20 table

16 17

2:305:30

NG Pride Office/Resource Centre Parish Hall, 40 Campus Drive

Rainbow bandana for all visitors

19

6:30

FREE Movie – The Matrix Parish Hall Theatre

Red pill or blue pill?

23

2:30-

NG Pride Office/Resource Centre

Rainbow lollipop

May 28, 2026

There's no shortage of excitement happening at Kemptville Infinity as we head into summer! From performances and community events to camps, classes, and special activities, families have plenty of opportunities to stay active, connected, and entertained.

Our talented Community Spirit Team is prepared for several exciting performances this season. Audiences can catch the team sharing their original performance inspired by Frozen. If you missed them during Buskerfest, there's still time to catch them at Osgoode PorchFest on June 13 and during Infinity's Year End BBQ on June 14, highlighting the creativity, teamwork, and confidence athletes have developed throughout the year. Later that evening, the Competitive Gymnastics Team will celebrate another terrific season at their Banquet.

Although competition season has come to an end, the work does not stop here! Women's Artistic Gymnasts are now shifting the focus to upgrading skills, setting new goals, and preparing for another exciting competition season ahead.

Summer class program registration is now officially open for Gymnastics, Ninja, and Cheer classes. Families are encouraged to register early, as many classes have limited availability and tend to fill quickly. Summer is a fantastic opportunity for athletes to stay active, build skills, and continue progressing in a fun and supportive environment.

Summer Camps are 95% full! Running from 9am - 4pm, youth ages 4-12 enjoy themed activities games and crafts and of course gym time! Before Care (starting at 7am) and After Care (ending at 6pm) are available as well. New this year, we are offering an Intensive Training weeks - 4+ hours of skills and practice, alongside the fun of the weekly themed camp!

Community involvement continues to be an important part of the Infinity family. On May 31, the Spirit Team proudly participated in the Hike for Hospice, helping raise awareness and support for Beth Donovan Hospice care and cheered on the hikers as they crossed the finish line.

Upcoming events include Laser Tag on June 6 from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., offering participants an exciting evening of action and teamwork. Families are also invited to celebrate Infinity's Year End BBQ and 7th Anniversary Celebration on June 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will feature athlete showcases, community fun, and a chance to celebrate another incredible year together.

For Ninja athletes, the highly anticipated Ninja Challenge returns June 21, giving participants an opportunity to test their strength, agility, and determination in a fun competition atmosphere. Spectators are welcome!

Looking ahead to the fall, Kemptville Infinity is excited to offer tickets for the Ottawa Redblacks vs Toronto Argonauts game on October 16. Tickets are available now through the Infinity Events Calendar and make a great Father's Day gift idea! Attendees will also have the opportunity to watch Infinity's Community Spirit Team perform during the halftime show! How exciting!

Drop-In Gym Time remains a big hit: For children ages 0-5, Drop-in remains open on our Spring schedule until June 21. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10am - 12pm and Tuesdays 12pm - 2pm. We also offer Teen Open Gym Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 2:30 - 3:30pm and Adult Drop-In classes, with a high-level coach Wednesdays 8pm - 9pm.

Follow us on Facebook for updates of Bonus Weekend Drop-Ins and the new Summer Drop-In Schedule.

For any class or camp registration, event information, and tickets, email us at info@ kemptvilleinfinity.com, visit us online at www.kemptvilleinfinity.com, or in person at 274, County Rd #44 and we'd be happy to help. We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer - we look forward to seeing you soon!

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Local churches mark anniversaries

by David Shanahan It was noted recently in the Times that St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Kemptville is marking its 175th anniversary this year. It was in 1851 that the present church building on Prescott Street was officially opened under the ministry of William McDowell, who had arrived in the region in 1845 and first held meetings in a house on James Street in Kemptville, as well as in a frame structure on Bedell Road at the corner of Dennison Road.

There had been a Presbyterian congregation for some years before the church building was opened in 1851, and it would take many more years to completely furnish the church. An account of the church in 1903 recorded that: “Subscriptions were solicited from the United States and several other places and although the church was opened it consisted of little more than bare walls and a few boards placed upon blocks for seats. By degrees, however, a pulpit and better seats were secured.”

Thanks to the donations received from the US and Ireland, the furnishing of the church was completed and the spire added by 1891.

More will be published on the history of St. Paul’s in the coming months.

Holy Cross Catholic Church on Clothier Street West is also marking an anniversary in 2026. An important event took place in Kemptville in February, 1846. The local Catholics of the surrounding townships had their own church building, opened and blessed by Bishop Patrick Phelan, titular Bishop of Carrhae and coadjutor of Kingston. An entry in the Parish Register records: “On the twenty fourth day of February one thousand eight hundred and forty six, We the undersigned Bishop have blessed with due solemnity the new church at Kemptville, and dedicated under the name of...the Exaltation of Holy Cross.”

But the Bishop may have been wrong to call it a new church, as it was only an extended building that had been in use since around 1834. The older church building had been added to, with 70 feet being added to its length. Bishop Phelan blessed the burial ground of the Mission of Kemptville on October 24, 1853, assisted by the parish priest, Daniel Farrelly, and

The Voice of North Grenville

Peter O’Connell, the Bish- a reading Desk, Common present stone building op’s Secretary. The original Prayer, Bible, Surplice a was erected between 1878 church building as replaced pulpit and a communion and 1882, once again paid by the current one between Table.” for primarily with money 1887 and 1889.

This first church re- raised in England.

The congregation of St. mained in use until the James Anglican Church in Kemptville are planning a year-long celebration to mark 200 years of the parish, culminating in May of next year. The history of St. James properly began with the arrival in the village of Henry Patton in 1827. This minister set to work raising funds to build a Church and establish a burial ground in the growing community.

By 1829, a wooden building had been completed and furnished on land donated

by William Bottum, and a petition was drawn up and sent to the Bishop of Quebec, asking that the church Yo u be consecrated. The petiT h a n k s fo r r tion noted: sto m e s ! u C Serving 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“That your Lordships Ye a r 0 7 petitioners in conjunction $25.00 per ticket with the Inhabitants of the Unpaid pre-sold tickets must be picked up by 5 p.m. said Village and its vicinity Subject to Availability have erected a substantial 10532 Main St., South Mountain and commodious church on the piece of land granted For tickets call: as aforesaid at the expense Doreen Henderson 613-652-4652 of the Inhabitants aided by Lynn Levere 613-989-6017 contributions from variJane Boyd 613-989-5378 ous benevolent individuals Linda Boyd 613-989-1389 in England and elsewhere.

Joyce Derraugh 613-989-2435 That the said Church is pewed and furnished withT:10"

Mention to your neighbour!

MOUNTAIN - SOUTH MOUNTAIN

UNITED CHURCH

70th Annual

Chicken Barbeque

Saturday, May 30, 2026

Answer the call.

Volunteer with Ontario Corps.

T:7"

Sign up at ontario.ca/OntarioCorps Paid for by the Government of Ontario 10

May 28, 2026

nada M5C 1S2

PUBLICATIONS

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The Voice of North Grenville

Marsh Marigolds

Marsh Marigold, Caltha palustris, Cyprus Lake Trail, Bruce Peninsula National Park, photo by Wanda Thompson.

by Fred Schueler & Aleta Karstad – Fragile Inheritance Natural History A big factor in nature appreciation and biodiversity conservation is what's called the "shifting baseline syndrome", the tendency to regard the nature you grew up in as "normal," without considering the species or

communities that were lost in previous generations or decades.

In much of eastern Canada, and around the Northern Hemisphere, this baseline includes vibrant yellow flowers all along wet ditches and across the ground in swamps in the spring: Marsh Marigolds, Caltha palustris. The illus-

Asparagus signals tration here is from an e- boiling water until barely the start of Ontario’s mail a friend sent us from tender, cut into bite-sized the Bruce Peninsula. This pieces, lightly salted, and fresh food season wetland wildflower is also fairly common in swamps along the St Lawrence. In North Grenville, however, with our 19th Century history of clearing, draining, and grazing, it is rare, and we know of only a handful of occurrences: scattered plants along Hwy 43 west of Co Rd 22, the island in the South Branch below Hurd Street, the Murphy Drain NW of Actons Corners, a patch in the Ferguson Forest, north of Limerick and Forsythe roads, and just south of Ottawa on River Road.

Marsh Marigold serves a wide range of pollinators, and has been widely used as a spring green tonic, though it comes with the caution that: "Caltha contains several active substances.... Consumption of larger quantities may cause convulsions, burning of the throat, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dizziness and fainting.... Younger parts seem to contain less toxics and heating breaks these substances down. Young leaves or buds should be submerged a few times in fresh

served with melted butter and vinegar" (Wikipedia).

A few years ago, Michael Whitaker started an Indigenous Trails group that was working towards recognition of local roads that began as indigenous trails.

Marsh Marigold was selected as an emblem, and logo, of this project, and some were transplanted from a big colony at Domville to wetlands along Bolton Road, which is our road best documented as having an indigenous origin. Two of these transplants have survived and bloomed this spring. As a continuation of the project, and as a memorial to Michael, we plan to continue to enhance springtime brilliance along this road.

North Grenville Indigenous Trails logo.

Sunrise in North Grenville

photo by Marguerite Boyer

North Grenville Community Meals Association in the Running for McDougall Community Contest Submitted on behalf of the North Grenville Community Meals Association The McDougall Community Contest is back for its 13th year, awarding $10,000 to Ontario charities, non-profits, and community projects through a public online video voting campaign. This year, the North Grenville Community Meals Association is

May 28, 2026

proud to be among the area community groups sharing their story.

Since launching in January 2026, the Association has been working to address food insecurity and social isolation in North Grenville by offering free or pay-what-you-can weekly community dinners in a welcoming, inclusive environment. The meals are about more than food - they

are about neighbours gathering, connecting, and supporting one another.

Prize money from the contest would help improve kitchen equipment, expand capacity, and continue building a warm community space where everyone belongs.

Public voting for the contest began May 23 and runs through May 31, with supporters able to vote once 11

per day during the voting period. Depending on when this edition of the North Grenville Times reaches readers, voting may already be closed, but we still want to thank everyone who watched, voted, shared the video, and cheered us on.

Community support has already made this project a success.

If you’re looking for the first real sign that Ontario’s local food season is underway, don’t look at the calendar, look for asparagus. Now in markets and grocery stores across the province, Ontario asparagus is the first fresh, field-grown vegetable of the season. Its relatively short but intense harvest window is a reminder of just how connected local food is to timing, weather and the realities of farming in Ontario.

“This is the moment people have been waiting for,” says Teresa Van Raay, farmer and director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. “After a long winter, asparagus is the first true taste of fresh, local food coming straight from Ontario fields. It’s a short season, which makes it even more special.”

Unlike many grocery store staples available year-round, asparagus has a narrow seasonal window from around early May to the first week of July. Warm spring temperatures can drive rapid growth, with spears emerging and maturing quickly, sometimes growing up to 15 cm (6 inches) in a single day. That means Ontario farms are often harvesting daily to keep up and deliver the best possible quality.

Once harvested, Ontario asparagus is quickly cooled and packed, helping preserve its flavour and texture from field to plate. Beyond being the first crop of the season, asparagus also highlights the strength and innovation of Ontario’s agriculture sector. Many growers rely on modern varieties developed for Canadian conditions, helping improve yields, consistency and resilience in the face of unpredictable weather.

Fast facts about asparagus: • Asparagus is a perennial crop that can produce for up to 20 years, but farmers must wait two to three years after planting before the first harvest.

• Ontario is Canada’s leading asparagus-producing region, supported by ideal soils and climate conditions. Most of Ontario’s asparagus grows in Norfolk County.

• Many farms grow modern, all-male hybrid varieties like Millennium, developed at the University of Guelph, which are better suited to Ontario’s climate and produce higher yields. In fact, more than 90% of asparagus grown in Canada today is Millennium.

• While green asparagus is most common, white and purple varieties also exist. White asparagus is grown without sunlight to prevent it from turning green, while purple varieties are often slightly sweeter.

For home cooks eager to make the most of the season, asparagus is one of the easiest ways to bring fresh, local flavour into everyday meals. Whether roasting, grilling or adding to a pasta or salad, Ontario Asparagus offers a variety of recipes to try out. As more Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables begin to arrive in the coming weeks, asparagus sets the stage for the season ahead — one rooted in freshness, quality and the connection between farmers and consumers.

“Buying local is one of the most direct ways Ontarians can support farms and food businesses,” says Teresa Van Raay. “We are incredibly lucky in Ontario that we have to soil and the climate to let us grow, raise and produce more than 200 different food, fuel, fibre and flower products.”

The OFA’s Home Grown campaign raises awareness of why it’s important to preserve Ontario farmland to produce local food, fuel, flowers and fibre. Learn more and sign up for regular updates on products grown and raised in Ontario at homegrownofa.ca.

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The Voice of North Grenville

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Asian nurse 5. Russian emperor 9. Tropical root 13. Slang term meaning insane 14. Illuminated from below 16. Listen 17. Circle fragments 18. False front 19. Celtic language 20. Foul moods 22. Precipitation 24. Pickpockets (slang) 26. Breathe noisily while asleep 27. Resembling a chela 30. Food shredder 33. Wanting company 35. Cartons

37. Not in 38. Pocketbook 41. Pool stick 42. Highly emotional episode 45. Most unruly 48. Pieces of bread 51. Certain insects 52. Bush 54. Genuine 55. Outer skin layer 59. Slumber 62. Minnow-like fish 63. Implant 65. Put ____ words 66. Balm ingredient 67. Triangular formation 68. Skin disease 69. Repair 70. Unit of paper 71. Uncluttered

DOWN 1. "Oh dear!"

2. Forenoon 3. Inadvertent 4. Belligerent 5. Jerk 6. Urge (on) 7. Assumed name 8. Ascendant 9. Thereunto 10. Designed for flight 11. Coarse file 12. Minerals 15. Above a baritone 21. Resorts 23. Colorless 25. Cease 27. Dolt 28. 24 in a day 29. Large flightless bird 31. An outstanding feature 32. Employ again 34. Be mistaken 36. Adjusts 39. Cry loudly 40. Pitcher 43. Wrongdoing 44. Dull pain 46. D D D 47. Someone from Italy 49. Made a mistake 50. Hot season 53. Christian holy book 55. Type of cheese 56. Wan 57. Computer symbol 58. Bristle 60. Europe's highest volcano 61. He writes in stanzas 64. Dike

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Talia's Take

Lessons from this vacation – production@ngtimes.ca lower expectations, raise joy Captains Log – Day 4 of Our Vacation I have some thoughts I want to share with you as we head into the summer, and families start planning their own vacations.

1. Plan as much as you can – and then lower your expectations. Then lower them again. Then lower them a tiny bit more and just go with the flow. Things are going to go wrong. But that's ok. There is beauty in the unexpected. We ended up getting to the hotel four hours later than we were expecting and had to get the kids settled before going out late at night to get groceries and everything else after a long travel day. But you know what? We made it safely and everything worked out.

2. Budget for your trip: save for it throughout the year so that you're not stressing about every single dollar you're spending. Then, when you look at your budget, add a bit more because things usually end up being more expensive than you thought. This goes for whatever trip you're taking. Whether it's a weekend camping getaway or a trip to Europe, unexpected costs pop up, so it's nice to be prepared for them so they don't ruin your trip.

3. Put your phones down and just enjoy the moment. Listen, when we were watching the fireworks last night, I wanted to capture the moment. But then the song Remember Me from Coco came on and, through the tears, I put the phone down. Then instead of watching the fireworks, I watched my kids watching the fireworks. Seeing the awe and wonder in their eyes and the smiles on their faces could never properly be captured by a camera. But that feeling where you're just so happy your heart feels like it's going to burst? I'll remember that forever.

4. Show yourself, and the kids, some grace. Travelling is SO much fun, but it can also be a lot. You're out of a routine, emotions are high, it's sensory overload, and it can lead to some big feelings. It's important during those moments to take a second, regroup, take some deep breaths, and move forward.

There were a few times where we all took a little time out, had a snack, had a treat, regrouped, and continued with our day. And even though we've walked almost 40,000 steps in two very hot sunny days, we've still had the best time.

We don't let those little blips define our day. We just reset and focus on the good.

5. Be in the moment. Don't think about work the entire time. Don't think about the extracurricular activity schedule. Don't think about responsibilities back home. Vacation is meant to be a time to recharge. It's a time to rest. To reconnect. To be who you are without the daily grind of life weighing you down.

I'm sitting here overlooking the water, listening to the golfers tee off, and although this is technically considered working, I'm so perfectly content writing right now because there is no pressure. This is my happy place, and it's a reminder that I do, in fact, love writing more than I ever thought I would. Sitting here has me thinking that maybe I'd even love to do some travel writing.

And that's exactly what a vacation is supposed to be about – a place to dream.

(Now I just have to convince my husband that travelling is an investment in my career and not just us spending all our money – stay tuned.)

At the end of the day, this is what life is all about. The memories you make with the ones you love. And those memories can happen anywhere. It doesn't have to be at a 5-star luxury resort. It can be around a campfire at a campsite under the stars, or at a fancy dinner across the globe. The important thing is that you look for the beauty in whatever you're doing because those glimmering moments are what will shine the brightest when you look back on your life.

And my hope for myself is that when my time here comes to an end, I won't be sitting there with regrets, but instead thinking, "Wow, that was one hell of a ride."

Algebra. Don't know why I had to learn it - I'm never gonna go there Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

My dog can find anything - It’s a Labragoogle Brad said he’d do anything for her. Swim the deepest river, climb the highest mountain. She's now left cause he’s never at home Mate’s been unwell. Took some DVDs and ready meals - Fingers crossed he’s too ill to notice they’ve gone For those who recognise Morse code - I bet that Irish dancing drives ya mad Mrs says I have a short attention spanners are great aren't they

May 28, 2026

12

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The Voice of North Grenville

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 30th 8pm-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 monthMay 28, 2026

ly, 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. pril 21), Kemptville Legion Lounge, 7 pm. Contact mary.moore@ cedarlanestudio.netformore info.

EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, June 9, 23, July 7, 21, August 4, 18. NEW TIMES STARTING IN JUNE: Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m.

BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, June 2, 16, 30, July 14, 28, August 11, 25. NEW TIMES STARTING IN JUNE: Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m.

WIZARD CARD GAME at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, June 14, August 9. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m.

SPEED EUCHRE 10X10 at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road.

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.

YARD SALE, SPRING MARKET and BBQ, May 30, 8 AM to 2 PM, rain or shine. St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, 319 Prescott St.. BBQ at 11 AM. Huge selection of items, something for everyone.

3RD ANNUAL FATHER'S DAY CAR SHOW & BREAKFAST Sunday, June 21, 2026. 8:00 AM,The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville, Ontario BIRDS OF PREY SHOW, Sunday, June 14 at 10:00, 12:00 and 2:00 at Ferguson Forest Arboretum. You may see an eagle, a hawk, a falcon, an owl or other raptors up close and personal. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Friends of Ferguson Forest. Suggested donation $5."

THE SPENCERVILLE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY invites the public to attend its June Monthly Meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville. Community members are welcome to learn more about planning for the 171st Spencerville Fair and upcoming events.

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13

Famous Legion Baked Beans

For years, the Legion has served these beloved baked beans at every Legion Breakfast due to popular demand.

Ruth Garret has now graciously shared her recipe with the community.

Slow Cooker Baked Beans 2¼ cups navy beans ⅓ cup molasses {not black strap} 1½ cups chopped opinions ⅓ cup packed brown sugar 5 cups water 1 tsp dry mustard ½ cup ketchup 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper ½ cup maple syrup ½ lb bacon partially cooked Combine beans, onions and water in 3½ quart slow cooker. Stir and cover. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. Add remaining ingredients. Stir well.

Cover and cook on high for about 30 minutes to blend flavours.

Makes about 6 cups. Double the recipe works well.

I used to let them cook all night and add the rest in the morning. They say you should add a pinch of baking soda to take the [crackle] out of them.

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We’re locally owned, locallymarketing@ngtimes.ca operated, and committed to our community. You 613.215-0735 can help us continue with our commitment to keep NG residents informed andwww.ngtimes.ca entertained The with community news and Voice of Our Community happenings. FOR ONLY $60.00 A YEAR. www.ngtimes.ca

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Common Sense Health

Unhiding our feet and using our legs Diana Gifford-Jones I grew up observing my father's adherence to a simple rule. He never took the escalator when stairs were an option. He said, you have two of the best doctors with you all the time, your left leg and your right. Use them, and they will deliver preventative medicine better than most other doctors.

Abuse them through inactivity, and the consequences will come, slowly at first, but eventually brutally: obesity, mobility decline, heart disease, and then other chronic conditions.

The legs are nothing without healthy feet. Yet the feet remain among the most neglected parts of the human body. They carry us for a lifetime, absorb enormous physical stress, and

are rarely noticed until pain forces attention. Walking around in the wrong shoes can lead to blisters, my fate on a recent trip. Upon returning home, a reflexology appointment fixed my achy feet, and I accepted assurances of fresh life to my shoulders, liver, and stomach. My mindset certainly felt better. It was a bargain at $40, tax and tip included.

Foot care should not be an indulgence. "The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art," as some claim Leonardo da Vinci said. He could have added that feet can also be the beacon of serious disease. But most people are not modelling their feet for sculpture artists. And if they did, the art would not sell!

Aging feet are rarely attractive, rarely seen, and rarely cared for. For many people, physically reaching them becomes a challenge with age. Arthritis, obesity, spinal problems, and declining mobility make it difficult, if not impossible.

Family members are frequently unwilling or unable to help. Few adult children volunteer to trim a parent's thickened toenails or inspect a suspicious ulcer. But foot problems are among the first signals of poor circulation, diabetes, nerve damage, vascular disease, or chronic inflammation.

Diabetes alone has produced an epidemic of preventable suffering. Reduced sensation means people may not notice small injuries. Poor circulation

Come, let us reason The question “Why?”

By Steve Gabell In his article “Come let us reason….” Apr 16, 2026, Dr Shanahan seems to think that I haven’t read the Bible, and goes on to say that we can’t approach evidence with assumptions and preconceptions. I did read a children’s illustrated Bible at a fairly young age and reasoned that it couldn’t be true because it claimed God created the Earth and everything on it, yet it didn’t mention dinosaurs, or woolly mammoths, or kangaroos. My very Catholic Irish grandmother was not very pleased when I told her this.

I grew up in England, which is legally a Christian country with the monarch being the head of the Church of England, and because of this I had 13 years of primary and secondary education with an act of worship almost every day. I heard plenty of Bible passages and sang plenty of hymns, but didn’t hear anything that made me a Christian. As we go through our education and continue reading and learning, more evidence comes to light showing that God does not exist. For example, if God is all-knowing, allpowerful, and all-good why does evil exist in the world? As a historian, Dr Shanahan will know all May 28, 2026

about the religious wars and persecutions in Europe during the time of the Reformation. Why did God not protect the Catholics who were being tortured and killed by Protestants because they refused to become Protestant? And why did he not then protect the Protestants when they were being tortured and killed

by Catholics? Why did he not protect the early Christians when they were being persecuted by the Romans? If God made humans, why did he allow diseases to exist which kill young children such as retinoblastoma? Why did God allow so many Catholic priests to sexually abuse young boys?

There is so much in the Bible that science has shown to be wrong. As the power of the Catholic church waned in Europe after the Reformation, it became possible for people to show that the Bible was wrong in places, such as the fact the Earth orbits the Sun. Prior to the Reformation when the Catholic church held immense power in Europe, saying something that contradicted the Bible or Catholic dogma could see you tortured and executed for heresy. Over the years, many Christian denominations have twisted themselves into more convoluted posi-

tions claiming that parts of the Bible are not meant to be taken literally, but this is contradicted by their historical actions.

It is interesting that Dr Shanahan seems to accept the nearly 1000-year life span of Methuselah, asking why I assume people didn’t live longer in the past. Our increased life expectancy in the modern era is due in part to the enormous reduction in infant mortality seen with the advent of vaccinations, sanitation, and antibiotics. It is utterly preposterous to claim any human at any point in history could live more than 10 times our current life expectancy.

I have considered the evidence, and nothing presented has made me believe that God exists and therefore by extension Jesus could not have been his son and could not have been resurrected. The emergence of the scientific method and the reduction in the power of the Church in Europe enabled a rapid advancement in science and technology because answers to questions that went against church teachings could be provided. We moved from an age of religion to an age of rationality and reason.

14

prevents healing. Minor wounds become infected.

Infection becomes hospitalization. It is a grim medical conveyor belt. Each year in North America, more than 150,000 people undergo lower-limb amputations related to diabetes, ranging from the loss of a toe to the loss of a leg.

But here's a fact: walking remains one of the most effective, inexpensive, and scientifically validated forms of preventive medicine. Large population studies consistently show that even moderate daily walking improves insulin sensitivity, helps regulate blood sugar, and reduces the risk of progressing from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes.

Movement, quite literally, keeps the circulation sys-

tem working as designed.

Walking also lowers blood pressure, reduces cardiovascular risk, strengthens muscles, preserves balance, and protects mental health. No pharmaceutical company profits from recommending it, which explains why it receives so little attention compared with the endless advertising surrounding drugs.

Meanwhile, modern society has engineered physical movement out of daily life. We sit at desks. Sit in cars. Sit in front of screens.

Then we wonder why middle age arrives accompanied by aching knees, swollen ankles, shortness of breath, and metabolic disease. Podiatrists lament that people seek treatment only after years of avoidance,

denial, or embarrassment.

By then, what could have been managed with routine care has become a medical crisis. That is not merely foolish. It is dangerous.

If you have persistent numbness, swelling, ulcers, pain, discolouration, or wounds that refuse to heal, do not hesitate to ask for referrals to podiatrists, chiropodists, vascular specialists, or diabetic foot clinics.

Waiting while problems worsen is negligence.

And always, daily, use the two doctors you have.

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 reason why

state of the world we know is a result of that rebellion.

This is not the way it was meant to be, and all of the evils of humanity, the pollution and destruction of the planet, the wars and abuse and bigotry and misogyny, the famines and the climate crisis are all the result of humanity’s choices, not God’s will. This is a fallen world, as is evident every time we look around us.

God respects humanity’s freedom of choice, but has provided an answer to our alienation from God in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. That is the Gospel: that we have been given a way back, a way to have a real relationship to God and each other, freely given to all who accept it.

The so-called Christians who waged war, persecuted those who believed differently, and who revelled in power, pomp and authority over others were not obeying Jesus, they were going precisely against everything he taught.

When individuals abuse children, murder opponents, preach a nationalism built on hate and fear of others, they are doing so in the face of the clear teaching of the one they claim to be following. “Love your enemies.” “Do not kill”.

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself.” “But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?”

The Catholic Church, for many years, lost its con-

nection to the Gospel, as many Catholics would accept. But it was not the only body of Christians throughout the centuries. Often, indeed, these other Christians were the ones being persecuted and murdered by the political church.

Steve states that: “The emergence of the scientific method and the reduction in the power of the Church in Europe enabled a rapid advancement in science and technology because answers to questions that went against church teachings could be provided.” This is really misleading and not true to history. Advances in science came about over many generations, and were based on Christian belief that the universe, made by an intelligent and creative God, must be based on laws that could be discovered and acted upon. Galileo, Newton, Kepler, Copernicus, and so many others, were Christians, as were many Nobel Prize winners in Physics and Chemistry.

They didn’t, and don’t, all agree on all aspects of life, but they found convincing grounds for believing in the Christian God. Their intelligence cannot be questioned. Their beliefs were not based on ignorance, and they knew enough to believe. They and millions of others cannot be so easily dismissed without more cogent analysis.

by David Shanahan “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me”. 1 Corinthians 13.11 Steve seems to think that a children’s illustrated Bible is enough of a source for him to know the what it teaches. The fact that it didn’t mention “dinosaurs, or woolly mammoths, or kangaroos” was enough to convince him that it couldn’t be true. That is really a remarkable admission. The Bible doesn’t mention Canada or England either, does that also undermine the Bible?

But it is his generalised statements that would worry me most: “As we go through our education and continue reading and learning, more evidence comes to light showing that God does not exist”. If there is one thing Christians and atheists agree on it is that it is impossible to prove God’s existence, although I would claim that the overwhelming body of evidence would indicate strongly that he does.

But the Bible does answer the various questions Steve raises in his article.

It describes a universe that was “good”, as God declares it, with humans given stewardship over it, free to make choices, responsible for naming and caring for the animals and the planet on which they lived. Instead, according to Scripture, they chose to rebel, believing that they could be their own god, and were only being kept in ignorance by their Creator. The

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Statement from Mayor Nancy Peckford

Over the past few months, many people have approached me to inquire about whether or not I will seek a third term.

I am pleased to report that, after much reflection and dialogue with my family (including three teenagers!) and people I admire and respect in North Grenville, I will once again be putting my name forward for Mayor in this upcoming municipal election.

Community service matters to me. Serving North Grenville has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life and there is so much more work to do together.

When I first ran in 2018, I committed to the community that I would seek a minimum of two terms should I have the confidence of constituents here in North Grenville.

The reality is that, in municipal politics, the good things can move very slowly and take time. My Council Colleagues and I have worked exceedingly hard alongside staff to advance key priorities including the transformation of CR 43, housing, primary health care, recreational amenities, economic development, sustainable growth, among many other things.

We know we are at a critical juncture in terms of North Grenville’s evolution and every decision made today will have impacts ten and 20 yrs down the road.

I will be seeking re-election to bring the same energy, commitment and passion as I have up to now - with the goal of continuing to ensure a high quality of life for residents and businesses - as well as fostering a vibrant, small town community feel.

Municipal elections are always an important time to hear from many different voices in the community and learn where the next Council - no matter who is at the table - can adjust its focus and make improvements.

I look forward to the conversations in the months ahead.

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Who knows where the Times goes

by Bart Bilmer We were in Vietnam from April 11-May 6 on a full country tour and for some additional down time, and we thought to bring along a copy of the NG Times for a picture or four. The picture shows me in District Four, the rising foodie district. We had an amazing time, even with the daily 35C temperatures.

Just back from a trip to Peru and thought I would send this along. What better way to spend taking a break from exploring Machu Picchu than to have a quick read of the NG Times.

Carol Miller Snook

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OF OUR COMMUNITY

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613.215-0735 The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Beth found a smallish pork loin on sale, cut it in half, put one part in the freezer and cooked the other for a lovely Pork Loin with Vegetables. She took the easiest and quickest route by using some frozen Fire Rosted Vegetables Prima Vera (that's the name on the package). It's a medley of cooked vegetables that saves time and energy if you aren't into slicing and dicing on any given day. Here's how she prepared a terrific dinner for us. It served three (plus a treat for the four Aussies) and there were still some leftovers).

Pork Loin with Vegetables

Ingredients: · 1 small pork loin (a couple of pounds worth) · 1 ½ cup of frozen vegetables (or more, if you wish) · ¼ cup of your favourite BBQ sauce (use more if you add more vegetables) Preparation: 1. Preheat your oven to 350F 2. Mix the vegetables and BBQ sauce in a bowl 3. Place 1/8 cup of water in the bottom of an oven-proof pan (glass, preferably) 4. Line the pan with the vegetables 5. Place the pork loin on top of the vegetables 6. Paint the pork with a bit more BBQ sauce 7. Roast in the oven for an hour or so (don't overcook the pork; it will dry out) Serve by slicing the pork thinly and laying the slices over the cooked veggies. For a starch, Beth served some Gnocchis, fried from frozen in a pan at medium heat until golden brown. Yum! However, some wild or Basmati rice would work well, as well as potato medallions, cooked in the oven on a greased cookie sheet while your pork is roasting. There was much smacking of lips for this dish in the Cormier household. Let me know if you try it at pcormier@ranaprocess.com!

May 28, 2026

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KEMPTVILLE OFFICE HOURS

MONDAY TO FRIDAY • 8:30AM TO 4:30PM

SERVICES OFFERED: Passports Canada Child Benefit Employment Insurance Canada Pension Plan

Guaranteed Income Supplement Canadian Pension Plan Disability Veterans Affairs

“Call or visit if I can be of service to you.

It’s an honour to serve our community!”

M E M B E R O F PA R L I A M E N T

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Grenville Gremlins tion methods, technology information collection and continue tradition of adoption, and the growing processing, saving taxpaygiving role off-farm income plays ers millions. And it’s one

Census numbers help shape the future of farming

by Mark Reusser, Director, OFA For Ontario farmers, the arrival of the Census of Agriculture questionnaire this month comes during one of the busiest seasons of the year. Spring planting is slowly getting underway, weather windows are tight, and there never seem to be enough hours in the day this time of year. Like many farmers, when I opened my census package, I certainly understood why some people might be tempted to put it aside for later.

But despite the busy timing, the Census of Agriculture is something farmers should take seriously because the information it collects plays an important role in shaping the future of our industry.

Governments have always needed reliable information about land, food production, and the people working the land. Versions of censuses date back about 6000 years to ancient Babylonia; in Canada the first census was conducted in 1666 in what was then New France.

Today, the census remains an important tool because it provides a snapshot of Canadian agriculture at a specific moment

in time. It helps show what farming looks like today, how farms operate, what we produce, who is farming, and how agriculture is changing.

But perhaps even more importantly, it helps reveal long-term trends.

Those trends matter because they help governments, farm organizations, researchers, policymakers and others understand where agriculture is headed and where support or action may be needed. For example, at the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, where I serve as a member of the board of directors, we often use the statistic that Ontario is losing an average of 319 acres of farmland every day.

This number is derived from Census data looking at the amount of farmland in production at the time of the Census and comparing that to previous Census periods. While the number itself is important, what really matters is the trend behind it. The Census helps confirm whether farmland loss is accelerating, slowing down, or changing in different regions.

Census data also helps track changes in farm size, demographics, produc-

for many farm families.

It helps show that farmers are getting older, that younger farmers are approaching agriculture differently, and that farming continues to evolve rapidly.

The census helps demonstrate the importance of agriculture to local communities, the provincial economy, and the country as a whole. It also helps governments design programs and policies that better reflect the realities farmers are facing on the ground. When the OFA advocates for farmers, whether we are discussing agriculture’s contribution to the provincial economy, rural infrastructure needs, business risk management programs, labour challenges, food security, or farmland protection, reliable data strengthens our voice.

That is why it is so important for farmers to complete the census thoughtfully and accurately.

Farming is full of competing priorities this time of year, and paperwork rarely rises to the top of the list. The Census of Agriculture is scheduled to align with the Census of Population, and coordinating the two allows Statistics Canada to streamline

Baldwin's Birds

Hummingbirds are back!

Ruby Throated Hummingbird A Chickadee has beaten some of the other birds by taking over one of our nesting boxes, normally used in the past by Bluebirds and House Wrens. The Robins, who had built a nest over the back entrance door of my garage, have abandoned the one that they had built. I think that this was because they were a little ahead of the game and didn't like the following cold wet weather that we experienced just afMay 28, 2026

ter they had built it, such is life!

We had a surprise visit from a Baltimore Oriole, who tried to get some sips from the sugar water container that is suspended, along with some of our other feeders, under the eaves directly in front of our living room windows.

It is a bit unstable for any of the normal flying birds, so it wasn't a surprise to see it topple off and fly

off! However, our intriguing Ruby Throated Hummingbird doesn't have that problem and, by hovering to feed, doesn't have any difficulties and never fails to hold my wife's and my attention for many hours during their stay in this part of the world. What fascinating little creatures they are too, although very difficult to get good pictures of.

These little fellows have given me a bit of a quandary when it comes to actually being able to identify whether they are a male or a female of the species. OK, the mature male has got either a brownish coloured throat or a definite ruby colour, but what about an immature one? Are they the same colour as the mature females, or do they have their own identifying characteristics? Now why am I asking myself this question, you might ask. Well, I have 16

of the few opportunities farmers have to collectively contribute to a national picture of Canadian agriculture, a picture that influences decisions for years to come.

Based on previous feedback from farmers, Statistics Canada has also made efforts to simplify the process this year by streamlining the questionnaire and reducing the number of questions. The questionnaire is available online or paper copies can be requested, and farmers can review the questions in advance to prepare the information they may need. The Census of Agriculture must be completed

by July 31, and results will start being released in May 2027.

My advice to fellow farmers is simple: take the time to complete it properly and provide information that will genuinely help support your industry. The stronger and more accurate the information is, the stronger the case becomes for agriculture when governments and organizations are making decisions that affect all of us.

The Census of Agriculture helps ensure farming is counted, understood, and recognized. That is worth the effort.

The Grenville Gremlins (Kemptville) Square Dance Club have been a mainstay in our community for over 50 years. Each year the club membership chooses to donate funds to one or more local charity. For the past two years, the selected charities have been Kemptville District Hospital Foundation, the House of Lazarus, Shalom Small Homes, and the Kemptville Youth Centre. Previous donations for many years went to the Kemptville District Hospital.

In our final square dance evening of 2026 our President, Mary Cruse(centre white), sat among the representatives of the local charities, accepting the donations were: Cindy Smith (Kemptville District Hospital); Gayle Hewton (House of Lazarus); Janne Ritskes (Shalom Small Homes); and Christy Melvin (Kemptville Youth Centre).

The Grenville Gremlins look forward to many more years of dancing and contributing to the community. Evtaken pictures of two differ- eryone is welcome to come out to our Modern Square ent birds of the Humming- Dance, two free evenings of dancing at our Open House in birds that we currently have the Fall, starting September at the Municipal Centre. here at our feeder and they are coloured differently!

The plain white chest VOLUNTEERING are both exactly this, but IS THE the plumage on their backs is definitely not. The one OF OUR COMMUNITY is of a dullish green colour, but the other is quite a bright green, much the same as the male's colour.

I assumed (whoops, there is that terrible word again), & that it is a male, but with no Water Conditioning throat markings it points me back to being a female, or 613.882.7867 an immature male. The bird Gurus are not very definiSales, Service, Installations tive about it either in their FOR ALL YOUR PUMP NEEDS explanations of the differWell Pumps - Submersible & Jet ences, and don't talk about Pressure Tanks the immature ones very Water Conditioning much, so I'll stick to the feSump/ Effluent / Sewage Pumps Heated Water Lines male side of things!

Pump & Electrical Motor Repair Enjoy your birds and stay Well Extensions and Conversions safe and well.

Cheers, prioritypumps@gmail.com www.prioritypumpservice.ca John Baldwin

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