KDH Auxiliary invites you to 62nd annual Hey Day
There is often a line up to get in when they open their doors on Friday evening, and the event draws thousands of people to Kemptville every year.
The Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) Auxiliary is pleased to present the 62nd edition of Hey Day on June 6 and 7. The major fundraising event is being held at the North Grenville Municipal Centre arena. Hey Day is a longstanding tradition in
Kemptville that dates back to before the hospital opened its doors. It’s considered one of the largest indoor garage sales in eastern Ontario, with all proceeds going directly to KDH. Hey Day is run entirely by volunteers and supported through community dona-
tions. It involves almost 300 volunteers and 1400 hours to take in donations, sort them and get it set up. Many community members look forward to the event every year, saving up their used items for donation and taking advantage of the great deals the sale has to offer.
The first one was held in the spring of 1960, before the hospital opened its doors in June of the same year. The event is the KDH Auxiliary’s major fundraising effort. All the money raised at Hey Day goes towards the purchase of vital equipment for the KDH. Equipment such as pain pumps, an ECG machine, defibrillator/ monitor, warming blankets, a patient lift and smart beds just to name a few, are used to enhance patient care.
Hey Day features a wide variety of items, including clothing, linens, books, toys, sports equipment, electronics, housewares, décor, plants, baked goods, jewellery, furniture and more!
Thanks to Les Winters from Fat Les’, we’ll also be taking over the canteen at the Arena for sales of food and drinks, with all proceeds going to the hospital.
The sale opens on Friday (June 6) at 6pm and runs until 9pm, and again on Saturday (June 7) from 9am to 1pm.
Hike for Hospice marches on
by Darlene Collin
For over 20 years, Leita Foster was a familiar and comforting presence to families supported by Beth Donovan Hospice. As an in-home visiting volunteer, she offered companionship and care during some of life’s most difficult moments. Now retired, and a participant in the hospice’s Day Hospice program, Leita continues to give back in her own meaningful way.
This spring, she became the first person to request a sponsorship form for Beth Donovan Hospice’s annual Hike for Hospice. Determined to do her part once more, Leita set a goal to raise $1,000 for the organization that has meant so much to her and to the community. With the help of online donations and generous supporters, she proudly met that goal just before Hike Day.
“I was really touched,” said Leita. “I didn’t think people would go online to support me, so reaching my goal was such a surprise. It made me so happy. This might be my last year participating, so it truly feels like my swan song.”
Hike Day took place at Ferguson Forest Centre and brought together families, supporters, and volunteers to walk in honour or in memory of loved ones. While the campaign hasn’t yet reached its final goal of $50,000, it did surpass the first milestone of $20,000, prompting Volunteer Coordinator Janet-Lee Ferris to make good on a promise.
“I told everyone if we hit $20,000, I’d dye my hair purple,” she said, laughing. “And we did! The support has been amazing, and we’re still working toward that $50,000 target. If we reach it, our Executive Director, Sue Walker, has agreed to dye her hair purple too!”
The event featured support from the Kemptville Infinity Cheer team, who lined the trail to cheer on returning walkers. The Masons provided a delicious community BBQ, and the sun made a welcome appearance just in time for the afternoon’s familyfriendly activities, a balloon house and lawn games.
Local businesses also stepped up to support the cause. Route sponsorships were generously provided by Kemptville Physiotherapy Centre, Kemptville Stress Relief Centre, and TD Bank. Kemptville Pet Valu donated special doggie goodie bags for participants walking with their four-legged companions.
The Hike for Hospice campaign continued through the end of May, with many participants completing their 1K, 2K or 5K walks at their own pace. Donations are still being accepted, and the hospice team remains hopeful they can reach their final goal.
“This event isn’t just about dollars; it’s about honouring lives and bringing people together,” said Janet-Lee Ferris. “Leita’s story, and the turnout we saw from families walking in memory of someone special, reminds us all why this matters.”
To support the Hike for Hospice or make a donation, visit: www.bethdonovanhospice.ca.
Final Repair Café of the season
by Tricia Habberjam
The Repair Café will be holding its last session of the season on June 14 in the North Grenville Library between 11-2pm. I am hoping most of you know about us by now; we help you repair items which have stopped working. We do this in order that the local landfill sites do not get cluttered up with otherwise useful items.
We have been operating since February 2024 and during that time (we meet about once a month) we have repaired 67 items, from sewing repairs to clocks to chest of drawers to a toaster. Sometimes the repairs are easy sometimes they require a part which, when procured by the owner, we help to fit.
Not all items are reparable, some are too poorly made, some cost more for the parts than a brand new item and some cannot be taken apart to repair.
As we believe that being able to repair an item we own should be our right, I am promoting The Right to Repair Legislation in Canada, here is the web address for further information;
https://competition-bureau.canada.ca/en/how-wefoster-competition/educationand-outreach/learn-about-right-repair, or you can just ask google about Right to Repair in Canada.
This right doesn't just apply to coffee makers etc. but also cars and farm equipment. I encourage everyone to check out this site and think before you buy items that may not be repairable.
The Repair Café would like to thank Bishop's Mills WI, The North Grenville Times, North Grenville library, and the businesses that allow me to advertise as well as all the wonderful volunteers who freely give of their time to help keep this initiative going.
More information pmjh@snowie.ca, or call Tricia Habberjam at 613 258 3683.
Lions Club June winner
L to R: President Lion
Robert Sentner, Lion Paul Thivierge, Lion Bill Neil, and secretary Lion Mike Amirault, Sandra Aitken and her husband, and Lion Alan Forbes.
The winner of June Lions Trip of the Month Club lottery is Sandra Aitken. Congratulations to Sandra, who will use a $1,500 travel voucher to plan a well-earned vacation... somewhere. Don't we all need one of those?
Leita Foster with Hunter and Ivy Tibben
Hearing Hope:
How one small device from Kemptville HearCANADA changed a Life
by Talia Hreljac
Imagine having one of your senses disappear. Imagine slipping into a world of silence, feeling like there was nothing you could do, and like you were losing a part of yourself.
For June Vienneau, this was her reality. She had lost most of her hearing — even the ability to hear her own voice. She stopped going to church, Bible study, and other things she loved because she simply couldn’t hear. And because she didn’t reach out, others eventually stopped reaching out to her too — it just became too difficult. It was a completely isolating experience.
Then everything changed.
She received a letter in the mail from Kemptville HearCANADA. It said that anyone who came in for a hearing test within the first three months — and didn’t have an up-to-date hearing aid — would be entered to win a brand new, state-ofthe-art hearing aid valued at over $10,000.
And in her words, a blessing happened — she won!
She came in, was properly fitted, and received a new lease on life in the form of a tiny but powerful hearing aid. Talking to her afterward was like watching some-
one see colour for the first time. She was completely transformed and felt like she could finally get her life back. It was a humbling and beautiful moment to witness.
Kemptville HearCANADA has so much to offer the community. After chatting with them, I realized I should book my own hearing test — which, by the way, they offer at no charge. And after three loud children, I’m pretty sure my hearing has taken a hit too.
This amazing group is truly committed to helping people find the right solution for both their lifestyle and their budget — and they’ll even help look into any available funding options to help make the process as smooth as possible.
We often take everyday things like hearing for granted. But when you see someone receive that gift back, it makes you realize just how much we have to be grateful for.
Thank you, Kemptville HearCANADA, for the reminder — and for changing lives, one sound at a time.
Make a Splash with outdoor Aquafit Classes at Riverside Park
by Talia Hreljac
Looking for a fun, low-impact way to stay active while soaking up the sun? This summer, dive into fitness with outdoor Aquafit classes, an energizing, community-focused workout that’s perfect for all fitness levels.
The YMCA is thrilled to return for a third season of Aquafit classes at the heated outdoor pool in Riverside Park. Whether you're an early riser or prefer to wind down your day with a splash, there are convenient class times to fit your schedule:
• Tuesday & Thursday mornings: 7:30–8:15 a.m.
• Tuesday evenings: 5:30–6:15 p.m.
Classes run throughout July and August, and everything you need is included: from showers and an electronic lift, to on-site lifeguards. Best of all, no swimming experience is required. Participants are welcome to remain in the shallow end and simply enjoy the movement and music.
Whether you're looking to build strength, boost your mood, or connect with others in the community, Aquafit offers a refreshing and enjoyable way to get moving. It’s an ideal workout that feels more like play - perfect for people of all ages and abilities.
To join, simply register online at eo.ymca, or bring $10 cash to each class. Just show up in your favorite Aquafit gear and get ready to make waves!
After a long Canadian winter and a rainy spring, there’s no better time to get outdoors, embrace the sunshine, and feel the benefits of water-based exercise.
‘Step Into Comfort’ with Tanda Shoes at our new location
opened on County Road #43 in 2006 and has grown with the community of Kemptville for the past
18+ years. When owners Thomas and Carolyn Bass discovered Unit #3 at the B&H Grocer plaza, 200 Sanders Street
in Kemptville, a new adventure had to be explored.
After a fresh makeover, Tanda Shoes celebrated their Grand reOpening with Mayor Nancy Peckford, Members of Council, members of the local BIA, and a bagpipe parade. Our faithful customers and many new friends were welcomed into our fresh bright, open space. Our vendors showed their support with door prizes and a draw for eight pairs of free footwear.
Nina Tachuk, a loyal customer and realtor for Royal LePage Team Realty, visited Tanda Shoes last week to choose her free pair of shoes. Pictured with Susan Petersen, manager, and our fantastic sales associates, Amanda Dunn and Kaitlynn Speer, Nina chose a pair of walking shoes from the Merrell collection. We congratulate Nina and wish her many comfortable steps in her future.
Tanda Shoes
All those years ago
by David Shanahan
In April, 2005, a new monthly publication appeared in North Grenville. The North Grenville Community Newsletter was intended to promote the arts and culture in the municipality by profiling groups and societies, artists and musicians, and whatever else was happening in the area. Almost immediately, however, local politics intruded and the Newsletter took off in a different direction. Seven years later, the monthly Newsletter morphed into the weekly North Grenville Times, which means that we are marking twenty years of providing news and information to the residents of this and surrounding communities. No wonder I feel tired!
It is not easy to remember what life was like, even just twenty years ago. Social media was an entirely new concept. Facebook began in 2005, but only opened to everyone the following year. Twitter made its first appearance in 2006-7, while Google Chrome arrived in 2008. There had been
email, of course, before that, largely via Yahoo and smaller operations, but anyone starting a web site had to learn HTML code. The real revolution took place in 2007 with the first iPhone, and then Instagram became part of peoples’ lives from 2010.
The impact of all these platforms on the world at large is immeasurable. What began as marvellous means of communication and information sharing has become toxic, used and abused to spread conspiracy theories, hatred, misinformation and disinformation around the world. But at least we can keep in touch with our friends and family: how did we survive before? Oh yes, phone calls and letters. Look at how Canada Post has suffered over those twenty years of emails and texts.
The technological advances have been equally amazing in just two decades. When the Newsletter started, we had a very large commercial printer in our office, on which we printed, folded and stapled the monthly publication before distributing it through stores and restaurants. The survival
Where’s the village?
by Hilary Thomson
We have all heard the old adage: it takes a village to raise a child. I have been a mom for almost 4 years now and can't help but wonder: where the heck is this village?
Don't get me wrong; I am more fortunate than most. I have my in-laws down the street who are as involved as they can be. My parents live in Kingston and have always been ready to jump in the car and make the journey to Kemptville to support me as I do my best to care for two young children.
So many new parents don't have grandparents close by that are willing/ able to spend time with their grandchildren. Both my grandmothers, who had their first children in the late 1950s, did not have parents close by to help out. My maternal grandmother moved to Canada from England when my mother was only two years old. My paternal grandfather's job with Chrysler moved them all over Canada, so
of the Newsletter is still a mystery to me. Advertisers kept sending ads and copy to the Advance, which some will remember, was the local newspaper before the Times took over. Municipal politicians, particularly the mayor of the time, were not fans. No-one had ever publicly questioned mayor and council, or pointed out the ways in which they were behaving, and they really didn’t like it. Perhaps it was the coverage of council that led to all of them being voted out of office in time?
Residents who arrived in North Grenville since 2012 have no idea what politics was like here before that, or since then, in some cases. Although there is always an opposition to whoever is sitting on council, at the moment there is a very committed group eager to find dirt on the current council, and the next municipal election could be even nastier than the last. That is the sign of yet another profound change in society in the last twenty years, and yet another byproduct of social media abuse. What people post on Facebook, for example, is incredible. If people said
some of those things in “real” life, their mothers would wash their mouths out with soap!
Politicians are not the only ones to be on the receiving end of the abuse and opposition, some of which is reasonable, expected, and necessary. The Times, too, has been subjected to severe abuse on-line by a soured few. Only to be expected, of course. You can’t please all of the people all of the time, etc., and some you can’t ever please at all. We have been accused of being the mouthpiece of council sometimes, just because we say that they’re better than most of what came before. But that’s a fact you can’t change. In the case of previous administrations, ignorance is indeed bliss.
There have been really good councillors over the years: Terry Butler, Jim Bertram, Bruce Harrison, Don Cameron, for example. And so many residents gave the Newsletter and then the Times their support and encouragement at times when that seemed to be a minority position to take. The last twenty years have seen enormous changes in
North Grenville and the wider world. Not all of the changes were positive, but most of us continue to see the progress and find the good, most of the time anyway. Some really wonderful people, people we have been privileged to know, have left us, others have grown too tired to continue in serving their community, and they have deserved their rest.
Given what has happened since 2005, it is impossible to know what the future holds, especially these days. The Times, like the Dude, abides, in spite of everything. For how long?
Who can tell: some will hope not much longer, others would be sad to see us go. But we’re all getting older and twenty years is a long time (around 600 issues, and at least 500 Editorials!). Thanks to all our advertisers, readers, writers, correspondents, and all those who submit their notices about events, fundraisers, celebrations, and all that they do in this community. You have all made these twenty years possible, and, most importantly, made the Times the Voice of the Communityyour voice. Thank you.
my Grandma rarely had any help from her parents.
But the difference is, wherever they went, there was usually a community of mothers to lean on. At that time, most women became homemakers after they had children. Some more affluent women would have had in-house childcare, but daycare centres were not as prevalent and heavily used as they are today.
Listen, I'm all for women finding their power in the workforce. But I think the way that our society has evolved with the need of a dual income to provide for a family, has put a lot of pressure on parents and done away with the community of mothers whose primary role was to care for the children.
It is not only the few women who are able to stay home with the children who feel isolated. It is also the women who have to work for financial reasons. Exchanging hellos and pleasantries at daycare drop off and pick up is not enough to build a meaningful connection with other parents, especially with
remote work being so prevalent. That connection between parents is something that I believe many people, women in particular, are missing.
When it comes to the workforce, there are very few jobs that can't be done by a qualified woman. Having a daughter myself, I love that the sky is the limit when it comes to what she can choose to do for a living. However, I also believe in the benefit of one parent (mother or father) having the ability to stay home with their children, at least in the early years.
Having a parent at home has been proven to be beneficial for a child's development. But I also believe it is beneficial for the family as a whole. Because, let's face it, raising children is a full time job. We are in an era of stressed and over-worked parents, who are barely making ends meet. And that isn't good for anyone.
Our country needs to start prioritizing families by figuring out a way for one parent to have the ability to stay home. I am no
economist, so I don't know the gory details on how it would play out. Maybe guaranteed basic income could play a role?
This would allow for that building of community among parents that is so desperately needed. The health of our families is directly related to the health of our country. Especially as we focus on population growth and independence from the United States.
I am still looking for my village. Maybe it will materialize when my daughter starts school in the fall. I hope so. Because, as parents, we need each other. Although rewarding, raising children is the hardest and most stressful job in the world. And who wants to do that alone?
www.sword-guild.com
4-Month Program begins with a free first class Wednesday, September 24th Wednesdays - 7:00pm to 8:30pm at the North Grenville Community Center Mature students only (18+) space is limited!
Swordfighters@gmail.com
Mightier than the sword: Newspapers in North Grenville
by David Shanahan
The rulers of New France had a very strong rule about the society that wanted to see in Canada. For that reason, they absolutely refused to allow two categories of troublemakers into the colony throughout its history: lawyers and journalists. That all changed with the Conquest: I am sure there were lawyers with Wolfe on the Plains of Abraham, ready to sue anyone on behalf of anyone else. And, no doubt, there were people scribbling notes for the next edition's front page!
But, in fact, there have not been that many newspapers serving North Grenville since the far off days when the free press arrived in Canada. The railway reached Kemptville in the summer of 1854, and on the very first freight wagon came the first printing press, owned by R. W. Kelly from the Gaspé in Quebec. On January 22, 1855 he published the first issue of the first newspaper
in the township. The Kemptville Progressionist was a strongly Conservative publication, determinedly defending the British Constitution and opposing anything that smacked of "Republicanism". Although only two copies of the Progressionist seem to have survived, quotes from it and in other papers indicate very clearly that Kelly, or "Prog Kelly", as he was known, was a colourful individual who was not shy about writing his mind and pulling no punches.
A fellow newspaper editor later described the contents of the Progressionist as "spicy editorials, crisp reading matter and a very large advertising patronage". So successful was he at his profession, in fact, that he was invited by some prominent Tories in Brockville to move to the County Capital and start a new paper there. In 1860, he began to publish The British Central Canadian, which was described as a "red hot Conservative sheet".
Kelly's son returned to
Let’s Ketchup together
Dear Community Members, we are excited to invite you to Let’s Ketchup, a unique networking event organized by the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Kemptville BIA, Let’s Network and Ontario Approved Inc., and the North Grenville Municipality.
What is Let’s Ketchup?
Let’s Ketchup is the perfect opportunity for local business owners to connect, collaborate, and strengthen relationships. It takes a village, and this event is all about building
up our village by supporting one another and growing our local business network. Bring your business cards, get ready to network, and meet fellow entrepreneurs eager to create meaningful connections.
Event Details:
Date & Time: June 12, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre
Admission: Donations welcomed for the Kemptville Youth Centre and Oxford Mills Girl Guides Unit
Kemptville by 1862 and began another newspaper, carrying on where his father had left off. Like that first journal, the Kemptville Observer has not survived in archives or collections aside from one issue from January, 1862, and it is unclear how long it lasted. By the late 1860's, however, North Grenville was once more without a local newspaper.
Then, in 1880, came a brief glimpse of a name that would come to be identified with North Grenville for more than a century: The Advance published its first issue in December of that year. The owner of the new paper was S. E. Walt, who had come to the village from Morrisburg. He was based in the Maley building, which was at the corner of Prescott and Clothier Streets, where Rotary Park is today. But, for some reason, he ceased publication in 1881 and left the area again. Some sources say he was away for just a few years, but The Weekly Advance only reappeared in 1890, after a gap of some nine years. It was then lo-
cated in the Leslie Block on Clothier Street East, and now a vacant lot beside Hyde’s. Why there was such a long break between volumes 1 and 2 of the Advance is unknown, but once Walt got restarted, he built up his paper to become a major part of the community's life.
But North Grenville has always been a Tory stronghold, and Walt was a true Liberal. There may have been dissension in the Advance ranks, however, because two members of the staff left the paper in 1900 and started their own rival publication: The Kemptville Telegram. In their first issue, they nailed their Conservative colours to the mast and openly ridiculed Walt's claim that the Advance was an "Independent" paper, rather than a Liberal mouthpiece. Within a few months, the Telegram had been taken over by a new company, The Telegram Printing Company, owned and run by leading Tories in Kemptville, including G. Howard Ferguson. Walt sold the Advance to two young members of his
staff, and the next ten years saw an on-going rivalry between the two papers, both being run by ex-employees of S. E. Walt at the Advance.
Despite its Liberal leanings, the Advance began to advertise itself as the "successor to the Progressionist", a claim that would have mortified Prog Kelly, that staunch Tory. This allowed it to claim to have been around since 1855, a rather inaccurate claim to make for a paper essentially established in 1890. For almost a year from early 1910, it actually printed on its front page banner the names of the Progressionist "established 1855", and the Advance, "established 1880". The Advance suffered serious losses around 1909 when their offices were damaged by fire. But there seems to have been only enough advertising revenue to carry one paper in North Grenville, and the two newspapers merged finally in 1913. The new newspaper, The Kemptville Advance, operated out of a new, specially constructed building on Prescott Street
which had been built in 1910, and where it remained until shortly before it ended as a print publication. The claims to be the successor to Kelly's first paper resurfaced in 1961. Until the October 5 issue that year, the paper had contained the claim "Established in 1880" on the editorial page. In that issue, however, there appeared on the banner the phrase "Established 1855". These two claims appeared in every issue until 1964, when the 1880 date was dropped completely. The Advance was bought out by the Metroland Media Group, ending the era of the locally owned and operated newspaper in North Grenville, until the first new publication in the area since 1900 arrived in April, 2005. The North Grenville Community Newsletter later became the weekly NG Times in 2012, and is now the only locally owned and operated paper in North Grenville, carrying on the tradition of Kelly, Walt, and the rest.
What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events
Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings
Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca
Need additional information? Visit us: www.northgrenville.ca
BBQ: Available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the Girl Guides' trip to Switzerland
This is a great chance to enjoy some delicious food, meet fellow business owners, and support two fantastic local causes, all while building valuable relationships within our community.
How You Can Help: Attend the Event: Join us for an evening of networking and community spirit.
Bring Your Business Cards: Get ready to connect with other local business owners.
Spread the Word: Share this event with your network to help us make it a success.
Support the Causes: Your participation will directly support the Girl Guides and the Kemptville Youth Centre.
We look forward to seeing you at Let’s Ketchup, where we’ll support local businesses, strengthen our community, and build up our village together.
Warm regards, Talia Hreljac, Executive Director
Downtown Kemptville BIA Terri-Lynn McEvoy, Executive Director
North Grenville Chamber of Commerce
VOLUNTEERING IS THE
H eartbeat OF OUR COMMUNITY
Thank You North Grenville
Friday May 30th 2025 was our last operating day at 1303 Kingdom Road in Kemptville. This decision was bittersweet for us for many reasons but after 23 successful years we decided it was time. We definitely could not have done this without the support of family & friends who became loyal customers. We also could not have done it without trusting customers who became like family & friends. Countless memories were made. Thank you to all our customers. We were fortunate enough to have the same luck with our staff. Past and present their dedication, personalities and work ethic were truly an asset. It was a pleasure working by their side. We worked hard but we still managed to have fun. Thank you to our staff.Our local suppliers were amazing and also played a key role in our success. Thank you to our suppliers.
North Grenville is a wonderful community and a perfect area to operate a business.
Thank you for making us feel like part of this community.
New season for Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League
by Joan Beauregard
Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League is back in the swing, with 158 enthusiastic players. With the new season we welcome Janice Rennick and Mary-Ellen Nolan to the Executive Committee, and thank Linda Thomson, Donna Lush and Leslie Cheal for their service in previous years.
Our Meet ‘n Greet in April was a festive reunion, including a spectacular lightning-storm for extra entertainment. As well as registering for the new season, members could also sign-up for the Couples League, get information about the Ottawa Valley Golf Association, and get a Hey Day Draw ticket.
May brought the annual Havelin Tournament, our alternate shot, stroke-play event. In spite of a rainy day, our determined players cheered each other on. This was Janice's debut as tournament coordinator, and she did a
great job. Everyone had a grand time, with many laughs shared on the course, and afterwards on the deck. Congratulations to our winners: First Place, Frankie Baird and Leslie Cheal; Second Place, Cat McCarthy and Cathy Maur.
Our end-of-month fun day was a twist on a ‘best-drive' format. Instead using the ‘best drive', ‘best second', or ‘best third' shot on progressive holes, the biggest challenge for everyone was keeping track of which shot to use. After a rainy start to the season, our theme was Bright Spring Colours to conjure up a sunny day. It worked! We had perfect golf weather, and two winners for the best themed-attire; Janice and Susanne.
Our month-end game winners were Leslie Cheal (first) and Cathy Maur (second). This season we brought back catered lunches after the monthend game. Nancy LeBrun
Summer is for Street
has taken over as Social Convenor and auditioned Catered Affairs for the catering, to rave reviews.
At our month-end lunch, several members were recognized for their golfing prowess. For making birdies: Bonnie Kent, Leslie Cheal, Gloria Cross, Donna Lush, Laurie Howard, Sue Laewen, Annette Larmour, Judy Littau. For an eagle: Leslie Cheal. For breaking 80: Leslie Cheal, Cathy Maur. For breaking 90: Donna Lush. For breaking 100: Sue Laewan.
Thank you to all who came out to play in May, and congratulations to our winners. Looking forward to an event-filled June: we have two tournaments, the Jean Hyndman on June 12, and the Super Seniors on June 19. And from June 8 to 14 are the qualifiers for the OVGA Open Intersectionals.
A great start to a new season, and lots more to come!
by
Lisa Poushinsky
June is here, flowers are blooming, and summer is just around the corner. Are you thinking about the fun times you had on Saturday afternoons enjoying some free magical live music moments on the North Grenville Public Library terrace? After three summers, it was time for our original Street Piano to retire, but the Kemptville Street Piano project live on… In other words, there's a new piano in town and I can't wait to introduce you to it!
With a beautiful and timely paint job by award winning local artist Aleta Karstad (maple leaves forever!), the piano - donated by Denise and Steve Busby - will be installed, tuned, and ready to play in its favourite position outside the N.G. Public Library by the first day of summer (Friday, June 20). Our concert series starts on Saturday, July 5, with a Canada Day open mic hosted by local piano great Bradley Smith.
The full lineup is still in the works, but with funds graciously donated by the Municipality of North Gren-
ville and the Government of Canada, we'll be hosting some world class acts, including Blue Standard (blues/jazz crooner Raoul Bhaneja and returning piano wiz Jesse Whiteley), jazz manouche guitarist Justin Duhaime, Classical pianist and Ottawa-area mover and shaker Roland Graham, absurdist folk-pop singersongwriter Wax Mannequin, and more!
Visit the municipal and N.G. Library event calendars for concert updates, and don't forget to visit, like, follow, and share our Insta and FB Kemptville Street Piano pages.
Want to support the music? The Kemptville Street Piano is a non-profit concert series that relies on grants, and we will gladly accept donations and discuss sponsorship opportunities (contact us at kemptville.street. piano@gmail.com).
Stay tuned for our concert lineup release, and looking forward to seeing you at the Street Piano. May 2025 be our best year yet! Now play on!
What is a Street Piano? It's a piano placed in a public
area that encourages passersby to stop and play. Why a Street Piano? Who is it for? Street Pianos draw pedestrians, turning any location into a concert venue / cultural hub. By giving residents an instrument to play together, this project encourages locals to share their knowledge, initiate their own ‘play', and create relationships, setting a precedent for positive experiences in Kemptville's public spaces and inviting foot traffic to downtown businesses. Learn more about street pianos at www. streetpianos.com.
When and where are the concerts taking place? This year the concert series takes place rain or shine on Saturday afternoons at 1pm from July 5 to the end of August on the North Grenville Public Library terrace. The library is wheelchair accessible, with air-conditioned bathrooms and free parking. Need special accommodations to enjoy the show? Contact Lisa Poushinsky at kemptville.street.piano@ gmail.com. Dogs on leashes welcome!
LA Developments supports Seniors through food donation to Diners' Club
As part of their 9 Weeks of Giving campaign, LA Developments is proud to support Seniors' Community Services with a donation of food items for their Diners Club program, a gathering that brings local seniors together over a warm, nutritious meal and meaningful conversation.
LA Development's 9 Weeks of Giving campaign is all about showing appreciation for the organizations that strengthen
our community. Seniors' Community Services does just that by supporting our older adults and creating connections that combat isolation. Seniors' Community Services not only hosts a Diners' Club, but also offers transportation services, Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visits and more for our seniors and people with physical disabilities. The donation will help support several meal events that serve dozens of seniors
each month. This is Week 6 of the 9-week campaign, which highlights a different local charitable organization each week. The initiative is part of LA Development's commitment to giving back to the North Grenville community. For more information on the 9 Weeks of Giving campaign, visit LA Group (the sister company of LA Developments) on social media.
Pictured with the donation is Dawn Rodger, Executive Director, Seniors' Community Services; Bryce Carswell and Amanda Keyes, L.A. Developments; Lisa Caldwell, Program Coordinator, SCS.
Bright colours to conjure up a sunny golf day
Aleta Karstad paints the front panel (photo submitted by Aleta).
NG hosts Sustainable Business Summit
The Municipality of North Grenville, in collaboration with Community Futures Grenville, is proud to present the inaugural Sustainable Business Summit at the North Grenville Municipal Centre on Thursday, June 26, 2025: a free event designed to inspire and equip local entrepreneurs with practical tools to lead in the green economy.
This high-energy morning gathering will bring together small business owners from across the region for honest conversations and fresh ideas about how to reduce emissions and increase profits. A hot breakfast will be served starting at 7:30 a.m., followed by a fast-paced agenda featuring:
• Real talk from local business leaders who are embracing sustainability in creative and profitable ways
• Resources and expert advice on how to fund and implement climate-smart strategies
• Insight into programs from BDC’s Climate Action Centre and Launch Lab’s i.d.e.a. program, plus the announcement of Community Futures Grenville’s EcoFutures Loan to help businesses take the next step
“This event is about supporting our small business to leverage smart and innovative solutions that make them future proof ,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Businesses are keen to be resilient and ready for the challenges and opportunities that climate change will pose in the short and long term. We will show them how, with local examples, practical tools, and the chance to connect with others who are doing it too.”
Businesses in every sector, from retail to agriculture to manufacturing, will find ideas and support tailored to their realities.
“We know the entrepreneurial spirit in this region is strong,” said Mitch Bloom, Chair of Community Futures Grenville. “This event will give local business owners the confidence, connections, and resources to take meaningful steps toward sustainability, while strengthening their bottom line.”
The Sustainable Business Summit will take place at the Municipality of North Grenville. Admission is free, and all small business owners, entrepreneurs, and business support organizations are encouraged to attend.
Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. Register today at: https://bit.ly/45pCzsa
South Gower Business Park
Serve You
KWK is known for The best quality products in the area
Excellent workmanship for all installations
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Founded in 1989, Kemptville Windows and Kitchens is a family owned and operated business serving homeowners and fellow contractors in Kemptville and surrounding areas, from south west Ottawa to Prescott, Winchester, South Mountain and Merrickville.
Our sales and design personnel are experienced professionals that take pride in working with our clients from start to finish, providing them with more than just quality products and workmanship, but with a helpful in depth knowledge of industry codes, standards and current trends. We do onsite visits to measure and work with you from start to finish, that way you get what you want.
We supply, or supply and install kitchen cabinets, countertops, bathroom vanities, windows, doors and much more, for renovations or new construction in North Grenville and surrounding areas.
Come visit our show room Monday to Thursday, 9am-5pm Friday 9am-4:30pm Saturday 9am-1pm
You can also visit us at www.kwandk.ca
Like us on facebook, just look for Kemptville Windows and Kitchens
Closed Saturday on holiday weekends
Robert Hossie - Sales & Service James Hossie, Sales & Service Terry Vandemheen,
Hadestown - a mythical musical
by Talia Hreljac
The North Grenville Drama Club is proud to bring Hadestown to their stage, and it's shaping up to be an unforgettable show.
With over 60 students from grades 7 through 12 involved, this production is a real team effort: from the passionate performers bringing the story to life, to the dedicated behind-thescenes crew making sure everything runs smoothly.
At the heart of this production are teachers Filip Stone and Meredith Island, whose energy and vision have guided the students every step of the way. Wanting to step outside the typical musical feel, they chose Hadestown for its bold New Orleans flair and haunting,
apocalyptic undertones.
For those unfamiliar with the show, Hadestown is a mythical musical that intertwines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus, Eurydice, Hades, Persephone, Hermes, and the Fates in a powerful tale of love, prophecy, and rebellion. With its rich themes and emotional depth, it offers a unique opportunity for young performers to dive deep into storytelling through music and movement.
Meredith Island shared stories of students stepping outside their comfort zones and discovering their talents. One of those students is Owen Chevrier, who had never done drama before, but was encouraged by Mrs. Island to take a chance. He
did, and it changed everything. “It was stressful at times,” Owen admitted, “but it was exciting and gave me the opportunity to meet new people and make connections.”
Grace Henderson, a veteran of NG productions since grade 10, is taking the stage once again. But this year is extra special. She's joined by her three younger siblings, turning the production into a family affair. Grace is especially grateful for the confidence these performances have given her over the years.
For Sophie Hill, this show is a perfect capstone to her high school experience. Not only is she performing, but she’s also one of the show’s choreographers,
bringing years of dance experience into the spotlight. Sophie will be continuing her passion for performing arts in Toronto next year, and what a way to go out!
This production wouldn’t be possible without the talent and dedication of former student directors Ethan VandenBosch and Rylie Hillier. These two volunteers brought their extensive experience back to the stage, helping to guide the next generation of performers. Add in the expertise of Phillip Konopka from KYMTC, and this is a production with both heart and high-calibre polish.
And as cast member Luke Kuilder perfectly put it, Hadestown is “such a fun production; it’s impossible not to get hyped up during the dancing scenes.” That energy, combined with the depth of the story and the passion behind every detail, is what will make this show something truly special.
Tickets are on sale now at the main office ($15 for adults, $10 for children under 12). All proceeds will benefit the arts program at NGDHS.
Showtimes are June 5 at 6:30 PM, June 6 at 6:30 PM, and a matinee on June 7 at 1:30 PM.
@BrightShinySpaces
Hadestown in rehearsal
Welcome to Summer in the Heart of the Community
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no better time to get out and experience all the amazing things happening right here in our vibrant downtown core. Our community is bustling with energy, excitement, and local pride — and we’re thrilled to share it with you!
Support Local: It Matters More Than Ever
Now is the perfect time to rediscover your favourite shops, restaurants, and services in the area. Whether you're grabbing a coffee from a local café, picking up something special from a downtown boutique, or enjoying a patio lunch with friends, your support helps our local businesses thrive and keeps our neighbourhood unique and thriving.
Make a Splash This Season
Riverside Park is calling! The splash pad is officially open and ready for family fun. It’s a great spot to cool off, laugh, and make memories with your little ones. Pack a picnic, bring the sunscreen, and enjoy one of the community’s favourite summer traditions.
Take in the Water Views
Rotary Park is looking better than ever, with the dock now in place and ready for use. Whether you're heading out on the water or simply enjoying the view, it’s a beautiful place to relax and take in the season.
So Much to See and Do Downtown
From live music and public art to pop-up events and unique local experiences, there’s always something happening downtown. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with friends or bring visiting family to show off everything that makes our community special.
This summer, make the most of everything our downtown has to offer. It's more than just a destination, it's the heart of our community. Come out, explore, and make some unforgettable memories!
Check out our new logo for Downtown Kemptville! We’re proud of what we’re building, and we’re so excited for you to be a part of it.
Cheers,
Talia Hreljac
Executive Director of the Downtown Kemptville BIA
Younger generations are strongest newspaper readers
from NewMedia Canada
Research from January 2025 confirms that Gen Z adults (born between 1997 and 2006) as well as Millennials (born between 1980 and 1996) are now the strongest consumers of newspaper content.
Nine of out of ten Gen Z adults (90%) and Millennials (89%) report reading newspapers in either online or traditional (print + e-edition) formats over the course of a week. This is more than the 86% of average adults in Canada who read weekly. The data suggest that younger Canadians are actively seeking trusted, credible sources of information, particularly since Meta banned news in August 2023, which has blocked Canadian news content on Facebook and Instagram. Without easy access to headlines on social media, many have turned to newspaper websites, e-editions, and even physical papers to stay connected to their communities.
These generations aren’t just passively consuming content. 41% of Gen Z and Millennials access news across all formats, print and digital, compared to just 26% of average Canadian adults. As the most educated generations, they’re leading the way in media literacy, verification, and intentional news engagement.
Results are sourced from a national online research survey managed by Totum Research on behalf of News Media Canada. Interviews were conducted with 2418 English and French Canadians in every province and results were weighted to be nationally representative.
Law Office of Connie Lamble
Ontario launches Award to honour exceptional veterans VOLUNTEERING IS THE H eartbeat OF OUR COMMUNITY
The Ontario government has launched the new Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence. The award honours individuals for exceptional and ongoing service to their communities, such as work to help veterans re-integrate into civilian life, supporting those dealing with ongoing mental or physical injuries, or other broader community-building initiatives.
Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, highlighted the new provincial honour in a Member’s Statement in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on Monday, May 26, as he recognized volunteers at Royal Cana-
dian Legion Fort Wellington Branch 97 in Prescott.
“The commitment to service above self is what motivates volunteers at the 14 Legion branches in Leeds and Grenville. They provide invaluable services to our veterans, foster the spirit of Remembrance in our youth, and host celebrations that bring communities together,” said MPP Clark. “This award is our government’s way of honouring their extraordinary volunteerism and ensuring their legacy inspires a stronger, more united Ontario.”
Brian Woodford, President of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 504 in Lyndhurst welcomed the new award.
“The creation of this
award recognizing the role many of our veterans have taken on in their communities is fantastic! It will serve to reinforce the deep bond between our Legion branches, communities, and veterans. Well done,” he said.
The new initiative makes Ontario the first province in Canada to establish an award specifically dedicated to honouring veterans’ excellence in community service. Every year, Ontario branches of The Royal Canadian Legion will each nominate one veteran who has demonstrated significant and sustained contributions to their community through exceptional work. The nominating branches of Legion will present
Who knows where the Times goes?
To celebrate our twenty years of news in North Grenville, the Times is inviting readers to submit photos of them reading the paper wherever in the world they may be. You may be on vacation in Europe, like Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan was when this picture was taken. Or you may be visiting friends somewhere in Canada. Who knows where the Times goes? At the end of the summer we’ll have a draw to find the winning pic, and present a gift coupon from $100 for a local NG business. It’s a fun way to mark a big anniversary for us here at the Times: one we want to share with our friends and neighbours in our community.
Government may need to fix Canada Post
by Gordon Cameron, Executive Director, OCNA
Recently, there was a big internet outage in parts of Ontario and Quebec. For a couple of hours over 100,000 customers couldn’t get online to log into their e-mail, do their jobs or read the latest news. The company figured out the issue, rolled back the problem program and things returned to normal.
Two hours may not seem like a long time, but for those who depend on a reliable internet connection, their worlds ground to a halt. Had it gone on for even a couple of days, the government might have stepped in to fix the situation whether the company or its employees thought it was appropriate or not.
certificates and lapel pins to award recipients during local ceremonies annually.
Ontario is home to approximately 149,000 veterans and each year, approximately 9,000 Canadian Armed Forces members are released from military service. For more information on the nomination process and eligibility criteria, visit the Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence webpage: www.ontario. ca/page/honours-andawards-community.
All nominations must be submitted by the annual deadline of August 31
Now imagine the reaction if the outage lasted over a month before the federal government did anything to address it. What if, only five months later, the same issues cropped up again? Do you think the government would just stand by and let the company and its workers sort it out? Prime Minister Mark Carney would make a big show of fixing the issue, not to protect the corporation or its staff, but rather to protect the Canadians who rely upon what is an essential part of modern life.
So then why is the government staying hands off when it comes to the future of Canada Post?
There are those who see mail delivery as a quaint anachronism. For many, it represents nothing but bills and junk mail. However, while Canada Post isn’t what it used to be, to pretend that it’s not a vital part of the country’s informational infrastructure is as wrongheaded as believing that it’s as busy as it was 20 years ago.
Canada has large, populated swaths that lack reliable internet service and cannot be economically reached by private couriers. Are those Canadians less important than those who live in more built-up areas? Then there are items – newspapers included – that, even in areas with private delivery options, cannot be affordably distributed outside of Canada Post. Should Canadians be deprived of often their only source of truly local news because they live in rural or remote areas or in multifamily dwellings?
As important as the postal system is, it needs to evolve to deal with economic realities. The newspaper business and all those who work within it have had to adjust to changing times, and Canada Post and its workers need to do the same.
Yes, it would be better for everyone if Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers figured it out for themselves. However, if they can’t, the government must make the fixes needed to ensure long-term stability of the postal system.
Two hours without internet may seem like an eternity, but a bankrupt and collapsed post office would actually be
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR SALE
Firewood for camping @ $60.00/cord. Call Reg 613 258 7606
MAXFL1 Golf bag new Asking $100.00 Call 613-258-2753
Energizer inverter generator 2;200 peak .80cc engine recoil start in new condition $425. contact nadfudt@gmail.com
2 steel car ramps 36 long 11 wide 10 high $18.00 contact nadfudt@gmail.com
4 steel automotive frame jack stands cap. 1000 lbs. adjust from 12 to 17 inches. $36.00 contact nadfudt@ gmail.com
We sell and install cedar trees for hedges and we are also looking to harvest cedar trees for cedar hedges from land owner(s). Joanne (613)799-0958
TO RENT
LAND FOR RENT to farm. High producing for soy bean and corn. Reasonable to the right farmer. Call 613.258.3561
GARAGE SALES
Yard Sale. May 31 Time: 8-2pm Spring Market. BBQ starts at 11 am. Huge selection of items, something for everyone. St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, 319 Prescott St.
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 7
FFC Open House
Multi Family Garage Sale plus bbq and girl guide cookies. May 31 8am - 3pm 1565 Lindsay Road Oxford Mills
Garage Sale, June 1, 8am - 1pm. Moving out of country everything must go, reasonably priced. Housewares, tools, toys, comics, clothes etc. 336 Pinehill Rd
HELP WANTED
Need help with yard word & general small maintenance outside home
We are 1 km from Hwy 43 . If you can help contact me at nadfudt@gmail.com
ACROSS
1. Nil
5. Deities
9. Picnic insects
13. Gulf port
14. Conscious
16. Detective ____ Wolfe
17. Blows
18. Transparent green gemstone
19. Smear
20. Submerge
22. Underwear or lingerie (laundry)
24. Appear to be
26. Devil
27. Part of a golf course
30. Ship bunks
33. Exceed
35. Kind of nut
37. Bigheadedness
38. Geologic period
41. Metric unit of area
42. Express indifference
45. Trucker
48. Despot
51. Slipped by
52. Distant
54. Gait faster than a walk
55. Military specialist
59. Sensational
62. Abominable Snowman
63. Imps
65. Achy
66. List of choices
67. Sows
68. Similar
69. Criticize severely
70. Think or believe (archaic)
71. Not more DOWN
1. Aromatic ointment
2. Jewish month
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm We’re opening our gates to the public from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM to showcase what we do here at the nursery and how we support the Ferguson Forest Centre. We will also have some local vendors set up as well as some information booths Ferguson Forest Centre
Family breakfast and sale of products created by the members of the North Grenville Men’s Shed. Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Ticket prices for the breakfast are $10.00/person for adults and $5.00/child; a maximum cost of $30.00 per family has been established. At 2 Oxford St. West, Kemptville.
Hey Day
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. One of Eastern Ontario’s largest indoor garage sales, is coming back for its 62nd year! At the Municipal Centre Arena
June 8
WIZARD CARD TOURNAMENT
Time: 12:30 pm Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com. Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road.
June 12
Let's Ketchup Time: 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Business Networking BBQ
The event will feature a BBQ, organized by the Oxford Mills Girl Guides unit. Proceeds from the BBQ will support their upcoming trip to Switzerland. We are also collecting donations to benefit the Kemptville Youth Centre, which provides valuable programs and services for youth in North Grenville.. At North Grenville Municipal Centre June 14
Legacy Walk and Bike-a-thon fundraiser to help Shalom Small Homes build 36 more units for seniors Time: 8:00 am Kemptville Campus - Horticultural Building 20 Campus DR, Kemptville Ferguson Forest for Beginners. Time: 10:00 am Not familiar with Ferguson Forest? Prefer not to walk alone? Come join one of our volunteers for a guided walk. Also on July 12 and Aug 9, same time and place. FREE MAPS! Meet in parking lot near dog park. HIGH TEA AT THE RECTORY Time: 2:30 pm Sample pastries and sandwiches and sip teas and coffees. The $38 ticket includes chances at door and table prizes. Seats are still available for the 2:30pm sitting; call Audrey at 613-283-5033 to reserve yours. www.stannmerrickville.ca
St Ann's heritage rectory St Ann RC Church, 230 Main Street West, Merrickville Ontario. June 15
2nd Annual Father's Day Car Show & Breakfast! Time: 7:00 am - 11:00 am $10 per person ($5 for ages 0-10) Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, and sausage. Refreshments include coffee, tea, and orange juice. Spencerville Fairgrounds
2nd Annual Father's Day Car Show & Breakfast Time: 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
BUCKLE UP AND GET READY, IT'S BACK Breakfast 7am-11am $10 per person ($5 for ages 0-10) Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, and sausage. Refreshments include coffee, tea, and orange juice. Car Show 9 am - 3 pm Free to the public ($10 per car entry). Enter the fairgrounds from the Goodin Road Fairgrounds Entrance. General Public, please remember to park in the Drummond Building Parking Lot. We will have food trucks on site and an ATM located in our Drummond Building for your use. The Drummond Building 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville, Ontario
3. Repository
4. Responses
5. Gossip
6. Was indebted to
7. Challenges
8. 1st American space station
9. Moderate in tempo
10. Tidy
11. Not false
12. Wails
15. Gentry
21. Colorful salamander
23. Carbohydrate
25. Female horse
27. Enemies
28. Zero (archaic)
29. Sharp high-pitched cry
31. Hyperthermia
32. Landslide detritus
34. Cooking container
36. A group of cattle
39. C
40. Stop
43. Heaviest naturally occurring element
44. Big bash
46. Crumbling earthy deposit
47. Matrimonial
49. Connecting points
50. Commode
53. Flu symptom
55. Workout rooms
56. Bobbin
57. European volcano
58. Overhaul
60. Colored part of the eye
61. Lairs
64. South southwest
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
End of the Month Birds
As yet another month comes swiftly to its end, our migratory garden birds are still returning to once more join us here, locally. The variance in their colours and variety never cease to amaze me, and when I talk to my overseas relatives and show them pictures of our birds, they are equally impressed and amazed too. With the belief that so many outside of Canada have, that Canada is always very cold, when they see my pictures of our colourful birds of all sizes, they are very taken aback indeed. My earlier life memories of English garden birds is not so full of colour and as those of the birds that we get to see here all the time, and I consider myself very fortunate to be able to see so many of them appear in such a small part of the universe, namely my own garden area! I expect that you, too, feel the same when you tally up, in your own mind, the number of different birds that you see regularly, or have seen, during the past year. Aren’t we lucky?
Well, enough of my reminiscing, and back to this past week’s activity. I noticed a different movement under one of my bird feeders, as well as the slightly different size and colours of the bird that was there. It had that lovely foxy colouring of one of the same-named sparrows, but also a very distinct white mottled breast. Somewhat reminiscent of a Thrush, and it was, in fact, a Brown Thrasher. This is quite a shy bird, preferring the bushes to an open ground in which to find food. It didn’t stop for very long, but I have seen it at least once since my first spotting and, when viewed fully, its bright yellow eyes and long tail make it a lovely bird to see.
My nesting box nearest to the rear of our house is busy at the moment, with the Bluebirds popping in and out at regular intervals, whilst bringing up, hopefully, their next generation of young birds. The House Wren is further back up the backyard, and also seems to be either in residence, or just using it as a regular resting place, on another nesting box. Meanwhile, our front feeders are keeping busy and the Hummingbirds are now regular visitors to my sugar solution container. I expect that a lot of you are seeing the same birds that I do and I hope that you are getting the same enjoyment as I do and will continue to do so. Stay safe and well,
Cheers,
John Baldwin
With sincere apologies to those with allergies to shellfish, today's recipe is Shrimp Parmesan Linguine. I confess to a weakness for shrimp and for that lovely flavour of Parm. It is another recipe that takes little time and, providing you aren't allergic of course, is delicious. For those who are, try substituting small cubes of pork tenderloin. For vegetarians, fried tofu works very well. This recipe handles four people. Shrimp Parmesan Linguine
Ingredients:
Half a 900 gram package of Linguine, cooked al dente with a splash of olive oil
2 teaspoons of crushed garlic
3 tablespoons of butter
1 dozen jumbo shrimp, raw and peeled
½ cup of pesto
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup of whipping cream
Preparation:
In a large pan, melt the butter and sweat the garlic
Make sure you dry off your raw shrimp, then add them to the butter and garlic
As soon as the shrimp have turned pink, add your cooked and drained noodles
Stir in the pesto and cream
Then, stir in the Parmesan cheese
If you are using pork, cook it till browned; same for tofu. Bring the pan to the table with some crusty buns from Grahame's. You can also provide additional Parmesan for those who want some. As for wine, I would choose a Chardonnay, perhaps the Sawmill Creek, chilled but not too much. You might want to check with our local LCBO for other options.
All the best from Paul at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
The importance of hydration
by Eunice Adu-Tutu, MPH, RD, South East Health Unit
Did you know that about 60% of the adult body is made up of water? Water is crucial for survival because it plays a key role in keeping your body cells working efficiently. Choosing water more often to stay hydrated brings many benefits that support your overall health.
One of the benefits of hydrating with water is that it facilitates digestion by breaking down food and delivering nutrients throughout the body. Adequate water intake also promotes regular bowel movement by softening stools, which makes it easier for stools to pass through the body.
Another great benefit is that water helps to regulate your body temperature. During hot days, your body releases sweat to cool itself down; a process that relies on water. This is why increasing your water intake during warm weather is important. Aside from sweat, water aids in getting rid of waste through urine and supports the function of vital organs like liver and kidney. Staying hydrated also keeps your joints moving smoothly and reduces cramps. Without proper hydration, these organs become stressed and symptoms like dizziness, tiredness or low blood pressure will most likely appear. Older adults particularly need to remember to drink enough water daily to minimize these adverse effects.
While many research studies have championed drinking eight glasses of water per day, everyone's fluid needs may differ depending on their age, activity level, and health conditions. As such, Health Canada recommends that individuals can meet their fluid needs as long as they're drinking water consistently throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
For more information, visit the healthunit.org, follow us on Facebook and X, or call 1-800-660-5853.
Mental Health: The missing pillar in Universal Health Care
Benjamin Rush, one of the signatories of the American Declaration of Independence, and often called the father of American psychiatry, pushed for more attention towards “diseases of the mind”. He published his observations in 1812, and here we are in 2025 – still playing catch-up.
For decades, we’ve been talking about universal health care. Canada, quite rightly, takes pride in a publicly funded system. But let’s be honest: the “universal” part has long had a blind spot: mental health.
The pandemic years pulled the curtain back. Suddenly, mental health wasn’t just something “other people” struggled with. Kids, seniors, healthcare workers, CEOs, everyone got a taste of anxiety, depression, burnout, or worse. And while the physical scars of COVID-19 may be fading, the mental ones are still fresh. What are we doing about it?
The good news is, things are starting to change. In the federal 2023 budget, Ottawa committed nearly $200 billion over ten years to improve health care in Canada. Of that, about $25 billion is tied up in deals with the provinces to improve access to mental health and substance use services. That's progress. But it’s not a cure. Half a million Canadians miss work every week due to mental health issues. That’s not a typo. Every single week. The cost to the economy? A staggering $51 billion a year. So yes, it’s a health crisis. But it’s also an economic one, and a social one.
Americans have been wrestling with this, too. The U.S. passed a law back in 2008 saying mental health must be covered the same way as physical health. But, in typical American fashion, a law on the books doesn’t always mean it’s enforced. The U.S. tried holding insurance companies accountable, but lawsuits from big employers signaled they don’t want the extra red tape.
Therein lies the problem. We talk about mental health as though it’s just a matter of giving people more therapy or medication. But really, it’s about priorities. It’s about deciding that the mind is just as important as the body, and funding it accordingly.
Let’s not forget this is a global issue, too. The World Health Organization says mental health is a cornerstone of universal health coverage. But most countries still spend less than 2% of their health budgets on mental health. Imagine if we spent just 2% of our defense budgets on peace-building. Or 2% of our road budgets on sidewalks. We’d laugh, because it’s not enough to make a dent. And neither is 2% for mental health.
Some countries are leading the way. Chile, for example, has integrated mental health into primary care in an impressive way. They’ve made mental health part of a community care routine, not a luxury. It’s a model to look at seriously.
So where does that leave us? We can’t medicate our way out of a crisis. We can’t legislate compassion. And we can’t fix the system with Band-Aid solutions. What we can do is treat mental health as an essential service, not an optional extra. That means putting real money on the table. It means training more mental health professionals. It means building care into communities, not just hospitals. And it means talking about mental health the same way we talk about heart disease, diabetes, or broken bones – with urgency, openness, and dignity.
Let’s not wait another century to listen to Dr. Rush. If we believe in universal health care, then mental health has to be part of the package.
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Female Ruby Throated Hummingbird
RECURRING EVENTS
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.
PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@gmail.com
Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome BINGO, Kemptville Legion, Bingos run from the beginning of September until the end of June on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
LEGION EUCHRE will be held at 100 Reuben St., the 3rd Saturday of each month. Registration starts at 12:30, with Euchre starting at 1:00. Cost is $5 to play - cash prizes. NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155
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.
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. St. John’s Drawing Circle is every Friday at 4 pm (jan 10 - mar 28). This is a 3 hour drawing studio with life drawing models (clothed) for artists of all ages and abilities. Cost is $120 for 12 weeks or $15.00 for drop ins. RSVP please Jennifer at gowjb5@gmail. com 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. “Building Community, Sharing Hope”. 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 7:30 - 9:30pm. North Grenville Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Debbie at 613-795-3032 or Google "Kemptville Square Dancing" Saturday Art Social every Saturday morning at the NG Public Library! 10 am - 11:30 am at the NG Public Library. Free with basic materials provided NG Pride will be hosting an 2SLGBTQI+ and allies Seniors Meeting up on the first and third Sunday of each month between 2 - 4pm. Join us for games, cards, snacks and conversation at the NG Public Library.
KLUB 67 invites all euchre players to join us every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month for a fun social game of euchre. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben St. Registration starts at 12.30, play starts at 1pm. Cost is $5 to play – cash prizes given. BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, June 17, July 15 and 29, August 12 and 26. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, June 10 and 24, July 8 and 22, August 5 and 19. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com North Grenville Men’s Shed
A men’s shed provides a safe and friendly environment for men to socialize and/or do projects.
Contact: Peter Ivay 343 598-1174 or website ngmensshed.com for scheduled meetings on the calendar and additional information.
Malala Women’s Choir
Invites you to explore uplifting music for treble voices. Rehearsals: Wednesday evenings 7:00 – 9:00 pm, March 5– May 28, 2025. At St. Andrew’s Knox Presbyterian Church, 23 Bennett St., Spencerville. To register: contact Sheila at 613-658-5290 or sheilafawcett92@gmail.com No previous choral experience required.
Membership fee: $35
KSK Euchre Night. 3rd Wednesday of every month. Doors open at 6:30, games start at 7 pm, $5 to play.
Kemptville Snowmobile Klub, 1505 O'Neil Rd
Kemptville Horticultural Society - meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. The are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church.
