Issue 29 July 22, 2020 ngtimes

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The Voice of North Grenville

Vol 8, NO 29

July 22 , 2020

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There was a certain amount of relief around North Grenville when Premier Ford announced that we would be entering Phase 3 of the re-opening of Ontario. Last Friday, restaurants and other facilities were allowed to have customers come inside and sit for a while, almost like it used to be. So far, so good.

But many of the owners of these businesses are deeply concerned about how the public will behave, now that there is a relaxation of the more rigid measures against the pandemic. Luc and Scott, at Geronimo, and Kika at Brewed Awakening, are worried that customers will not

abide by the face covering and social distancing that is still required in public places like their coffee shops.

Already, owners have been seeing people refusing to wear face coverings, ignoring social distancing rules, even before Phase 3 was implemented. Now they fear that the rules will be even harder to enforce. Business owners do not want to antagonise or insult their customers - they are the life’s blood of their business. So it is very difficult for them to know how best to deal with the recalcitrant, those putting servers and other customers in harm’s way by not keeping their distance, and not wearing a mask.

The province’s guidelines are clear on how to behave

in restaurants and bars. “As of July 7, 2020, all persons entering or remaining in the public space of such premises must wear a face covering/ mask that securely covers the nose, mouth, and chin as required by the Medical Officer of Health under the authority of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) Ontario Regulation 263/20".

• All patrons must be seated when eating or drinking at the establishment.

•Establishments must take appropriate measures to ensure physical distancing of at least two metres between patrons from different tables, unless separated by plexiglass or some other impermeable barrier.

•Buffet-style service is not

yet permitted in Stage 3.

When you enter a business, wear your mask and keep a proper distance from others. When you have your food, remove the mask for eating, obviously, but put it back on when leaving or moving around the property.

Other countries and jurisdictions have found that the number of covid cases rise once restrictions are lifted.

Some places have had to reinstate restrictions when the public have failed to follow guidelines on proper measures and behaviour. This is not what we want in our community, obviously. To date, Leeds & Grenville have been only lightly impacted by continued on page 3

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The Voice of North Grenville

COVID-19

Information for North Grenville Residents Stage 3

► Arena 2 will be open for use beginning August 4, 2020.

The Municipality will follow return-to-play guidelines set out by provincial sport organizations and will also develop its own internal safety protocols for users of the facility.

As we enter Stage 3 with more businesses and outdoor recreational amenities reopening to the public, please continue to be safe and practice physical distancing.

► The Municipal Centre Arena Lobby will continue to be used as a Cooling Centre from 11:00 am - 8:00 pm until August 4, 2020.

As mandated by our local health unit, masks are required for indoor public spaces. Please be patient and kind with business owners and each other as we adjust to this change.

► The Kemptville Pool will remain closed for the season. ► Check out our calendar of online events at www.northgrenville.ca.

Municipal Updates (as of July 17, 2020): ► The North Grenville Municipal Office is open Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. In an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19, residents are encouraged to make payments online, by mail or locked mailbox, and call ahead to make an appointment for services.

► Remember dogs must be on a leash at all times.

This includes in the trails too - and don’t forget to scoop the poop! ► Download our trail maps at: www.NGtrails.ca ► For the most up-to-date guidelines for the use of North Grenville Recreational Amenities, visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus

► Playgrounds are open. Play structure and park equipment will not be sanitized and residents are encouraged to bring their own hand sanitizer.

If you have questions or concerns related to COVID-19:

► Portable toilets are installed at Riverside Park and Curry Park and will be cleaned daily. ► Splash Pad at eQuinelle Park is open daily from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm.

Please contact the Health Unit at 1-800-660-5853 or online at www.healthunit.org.

► Municipal sports fields are open for use and local teams are required to uphold public gathering limits and ensure a two-metre distance.

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

Visit www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus.

Contact us at: 285 County Road 44, Kemptville ~ Telephone: 613-258-9569 ~ Email: general@northgrenville.on.ca ~ www.northgrenville.ca

Thank you for doing your part to help stop the spread of COVID-19: 2m (6’)

Maintain 2m distance.

Masks mandatory indoor public places.

Follow provincial restrictions regarding public gatherings.

Continue to wash your hands often.

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio Kemptville’s Premier Choice for Fitness

New normal: Same old awesome Our comeback will be greater than our setback!!!

Call or email us today at admin@getcronkd.ca or 613-713-9413 continued from front page the pandemic, for which we should be grateful.

Between July 3 and July 17, there were two new confirmed cases of covid-19 in the Leeds Grenville Lanark District Health Unit [LGLDHU] region, but no death in that period. The death toll for the entire length of the pandemic in the LGLDHU

is 52, with all but 3 of these taking place in long-term care/residential homes.

As of July 17, there was only one active confirmed case in the region, and that was in the Lanark East sector.

There are no active cases in any long-term care/residential homes.

Let’s take care of each

A busker fest for Old Town Kemptville?

by Hilary Thomson The Old Town Kemptville BIA is exploring the possibility of a flagship event for downtown Kemptville in the Spring.

Bringing a busker festival to the downtown was discussed at the Old Town Kemptville BIA board meeting last week, and the idea of creating a subcommittee to organize the event was put on the table. Executive Director of the Old Town Kemptville BIA, Deron Johnson, has already been talking about the concept with the Municipality, Herb Cloutier from Jamming Around Man Productions, and a company called Orbital Talent Inc., which has experience putting on the Ottawa International Busker Fest.

Deron says the idea is to have a concert on the Friday night, a full day of buskers and other entertainment in the downtown on Saturday, and another concert to end the event on Saturday evening. Although he says the busker fest would have nothing to do with the former Dandelion Festival, he often thinks about how amazing it was to have an event that drew thousands of people into Kemptville’s downtown core. “We don’t need to go that big,” he says. “It could be a scaled down version that could be just as fun and impactful for the community.”

Although still in the very beginning stages, Deron believes this may be just what North Grenville needs as the community recovers from COVID-19. It will also be valuable for downtown businesses by bringing more people to the area.

“It’s another opportunity to showcase the downtown,” he says.

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other and keep everyone safe and well as we move towards a more normal life.

A detailed guide for reopening in Phase 3 is available at: https://healthunit.org/ coronavirus.

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St. John's United, St. Paul's Presbyterian and St. Jame's Anglican churches are still ringing bells for our frontline workers every Monday night at 7:30 pm!

Attached is a photo of the St. John's supporters out front with signs as the bells are rung. Our church has a roster of members that come out each week to take a turn to ring our bell.

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Editorial

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Every breath you take

by David Shanahan I have written a number of times before in this space of the concerns I have about social media platforms. Yes, it’s nice to be in touch with friends (real friends, that is, not the ones “suggested” by Facebook), and to post photos of important and funny events in your life. And, to be honest, it is probably too late to go back to a time before Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, etc., even if we wanted to.

And that is one of my concerns. Even if we wanted to, these platforms have taken on a role in our lives that has become almost essential to so many people. It is now beyond a joke how people spend so much of their time looking at a screen and tapping away on a keyboard, even in company, during meals, meetings, and fam-

ily events. In fact, events don’t seem to really be real unless one is taking a picture of it, rather than simply enjoying the moment, whether it’s a wedding, a picturesque scene, or the birth of a child.

We have also come to accept, however unconsciously, that Facebook, YouTube and others are more and more choosing what it is we see on our screens. Their algorithms “learn” from what we post, what we “like”, and what we search, and then present us with sites and posts it thinks we will like. The more we use these platforms, the more the algorithms can narrow down our choices, until we no longer explore and browse as freely as we think we are.

Again, that might be ok, if it weren’t for the fact that the algorithms are being manipulated with a very specific aim. No, this isn’t a conspiracy theory gone mad, this is why major

corporations are boycotting Facebook right now, because they are tired of having their ads appear next to white supremacist posts, giving the impression that they sponsor such groups.

And their complaints are being ignored by Mark Zuckerberg and his team. Look at this, from a recent article in the Guardian: it quotes an internal Facebook report in 2016 that found that “64% of all extremist group joins are due to the recommendation tools and that most of the activity came from Facebook’s ‘Groups You Should Join’ and ‘Discover’ algorithms.”

The article continues: “Yet, two short years later, in the 2018 presentation referenced above, managers told employees that ‘the company’s priorities were shifting away from societal good to individual value,’ meaning that Facebook would not regulate hostile posts as long as it

‘doesn’t violate the company’s rules’. Of course, the rules are often so vague as to even allow for someone as clumsy as Trump to weave right through them. And of course, all of this deliberate vagueness and all of these loopholes come right from the top. Zuckerberg sees white nationalism – and racism in general – as a political issue of right versus left, instead of a moral issue of right versus wrong”.

This is a serious issue, and would normally demand action of some kind. But what action? I would love to simply cancel my Facebook account, but a newspaper, apparently, needs to have such an account, as well as Twitter and whatever else.

That is how ubiquitous social media has become. In fact, I tried to shut down my Facebook account, and found that I could no longer access the Times Facebook page. I tried changing my password, and ended up

with a second account! My fault, no doubt, for not being tech savvy enough.

But, I must say, I’m really upset when, after booking a trip on ViaRail, or buying software on-line, I then, almost immediately, find ads for ViaRail and that very software, appearing on whatever website I visit. I don’t like it when I’m reading a British newspaper online, or browsing through some other site, and find that the weather information on the top of the page is showing Kemptville, or Perth, or Smith’s Falls. As soon as you go to a site, “they” know, not only what country you’re in, but what locality.

To be clear, they know what computer, phone, or laptop you’re using too. This is not paranoia, this is life as we’ve come to know it.

The Internet was touted from the beginning as a way for regular people to share and discover without government or other intru-

sion. It was free to all to post and read and learn and share with the whole world, without being confined to edited or monitored content. Clearly, this dream has faded. But it’s not governments and editors that we have been subjected to now: it’s the faceless Facebook moderators, the YouTube algorithms, and whatever political and social determinants they use.

No, it is probably impossible to do away with social media in that way, and perhaps it is unnecessary too, if we can find a way to make it more transparent, more open, less subject to allowing others to determine what we see on-line. If only we had real freedom in choosing where to browse on-line, instead of having others decide so much for us. This is a real danger to our personal freedom. And people say wearing a face covering is a threat to their personal liberty!

Dear Editor, In response to Jim Bertram’s critique of my last letter: he wonders why I keep criticizing the Conservative Party, and not others. It is simply because, in my opinion, it is the most anti-democratic, anti-social, and anti-environmental Party around, plus they are currently in charge of this province. They also treat everyone like we are just brainless automatons who can be easily manipulated. When they say things like “we are going to cut taxes and put money in your pockets”, many have yet to figure out that they aren’t talking to you and me, but to the rich and powerful, who don’t care a whit about you and I. Jim then takes umbrage at my observation that he and his Party only see things through a financial lens, then takes two thirds of his letter defending that, thereby proving my point. Jim just dismisses my facts out of hand, while clinging tenaciously to his own, even when his “facts” have been debunked in this newspaper by people who are far more educated than I am. Both he and his Party cling to the same old way of doing things, totally ignoring history and what is happening around them. There is a name for people who keep doing the same thing and expecting different results, but as it is somewhat derogatory,

I shall refrain from using it.

You get my point, though.

I sometimes wonder why I bother with people who are so dogmatic in their beliefs that no amount of evidence to the contrary will change their minds.

Jim also thinks that I should be an equal opportunity critic of other governments. Maybe so, but then this Ford government gives me so much material, it is hard to ignore. As I write, Ford is about to introduce an Omnibus bill, that is yet more slash and burn politics.

Jim, to his credit, encourages me to present an alternative view to both his and the current provincial governments way of thinking, and I appreciate that, though

sometimes it gets quite annoying to take the cavalier dismissal of anything that he doesn’t agree with.

He also expects me to criticize other governments, but fails to see the shortcomings in the one that he supports. He wants his cake, and eat it too.

While I am not exactly a fan of the Liberal government, it is mostly because they know what to do, but fail to act on it. To be fair, the Conservatives don’t do a lot of these things either, but then, they don’t even play lip service to it. One of the biggest failures of both parties when in government is tax fairness.

They both leave in place the tax loopholes that only benefit the rich and corporations, and do nothing about

offshore accounts. I have a friend who owns a business, and he once told me “It costs me $100,000 to offshore $1 million, but it is still cheaper than paying taxes”. The lack of any empathy for those less fortunate is astounding. If the rich and corporations were made to pay taxes at the same rate as you and I, and some billionaires have been asking for that, we could fund a lot of social and environmental programs with that money.

We could end tax havens, and have $25 billion in the coffers, close tax loopholes for another $16 billion, and a wealth tax on the 0.1% for a further $5.5 billion. Total, $46.5 billion. So why are we

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, Cycling in North Grenville.

A year ago my wife and I moved from North Gower to Kemptville. I am a keen cyclist who does not drive.

Cycling in North Grenville was one of the reasons for our relocation.

I am more than pleased with the cycling opportunities here for several reasons 1.The rail trail is a great resource and the grit surface is excellent for biking. A special thanks to the NG staff who do an excellent job of levelling the grit on a regular basis.

Extension of the grit surface to some of the trails in the Kemptville College and Ferguson Forest facility would make their trail systems more accessible for cycling.

2. The multi use pathway on 44 is an excellent safe link for cyclists to get to the Settler’s Way trails and on to River Road. Hopefully it will be extended along 43 as part of the extension work.

Contrary to the experience of the letter writer in the July 8 edition of your paper, I have found motorists , particularly at the marked crossing near the Fire Station, to be very considerate of cyclists. They often stop before I have time to press the crossing button.

3 the road surfaces in North Grenville are much July 22, 2020

better maintained than the roads that I used to ride in the North Gower, Richmond and Kars area. I frequently ride to Oxford Mills and down to River Road. Smoother surfaces and fewer potholes for me and my bike. Good news for an old guy like me.

Max Colwell Dear Editor, Two weeks ago on Sunday June 28th I visited Merrickville and reported my experience to the NGT. Yesterday, July 12th, I passed through Merrickville and saw that nothing has appeared to have improved in the village regarding the recommended COVID-19 health protocol.

The main street was packed with dozens of people on the sidewalks, not physically distancing, and only a handful wearing masks. Only one person was wearing a mask at a very crowded food stand with no distancing. I am not going to make further comments on this topic but I am concerned that as restrictions ease people are getting very relaxed and letting their guard down.

Let's hope that it doesn't give reason for all of us going into another full lock down.

Nick Brooks Kemptville

Excellence in service dedicated to your success 24 Prescott St., Kemptville WGP@wgpcas.ca

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613.258.3493 The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc.

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Editor Staff Reporter Accounting David Shanahan cfo@ngtimes.ca Hilary Thomson david@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735 hilary@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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production@ngtimes.ca 613.215.0735

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Many Recreation and Culture services reopen

With Eastern Ontario entering Stage 3 of reopening as of last Friday, July 17, many recreation and culture services will be available to the public, as long as physical distancing requirements are maintained.

Notably, Stage 3 of the reopening plan includes increasing gathering limits to a maximum of 50 people indoors and 100 people outside.

As a result, North Grenville is working closely with groups and individuals to ensure a safe return to recreation facilities.

The following is a list of what will reopen and when, and what remains closed: Reopenings: Sports fields: Municipal sports fields are open for use and local teams are required to comply with the public gathering limit of 100 outside, and ensure a 2-metre distance Splash Pad at e-Quinelle Park: The splash pad continues to operate daily from

letters continued cutting programs? Lastly, why don’t we return to borrowing money from ourselves through the Bank of Canada, instead of through commercial banks? We could set ourselves a really low interest rate, just enough to keep the wheels in motion, and not pay the exorbitant fees that the commercial banks currently charge.

So you see, there are other ways of funding our society and the programs that we need. It doesn’t happen in good part because neither Conservatives nor Liberals, who we keep insisting on electing instead of other parties that subscribe to this, different, way of thinking, are going to do anything that affects their funding base.

I would like to think that this pandemic has laid bare all that is wrong with how we allow ourselves to be governed, and while it is apparent to many of us, I wonder if it is enough to make the changes that we need. The evidence is all around us showing what didn’t work, and we can’t, and shouldn’t, go back to business as usual.

Finally, I have a plea for all of you who don’t vote.

Your collective power has the numbers to make the changes that we need. At the next election, please try to ignore the antipathy that you have for all politicians. Yes, I know that some of them have a habit of behaving badly, and that you get the impression July 22, 2020

10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Staff are on site and residents are asked to follow the posted rules and regulations to help protect the health and safety of everyone.

Play structures and portable toilets: All playgrounds in North Grenville opened Friday, July 17. Portable toilets will also be installed at Riverside Park and Curry Park. They will be cleaned daily. Play structures and park equipment will not be sanitized, so individuals and families are encouraged to bring their own hand sanitizer.

North Grenville Municipal Centre Arenas: Arena 2 will be now be open for use beginning August 4, 2020. Arena 1 is expected to open on September 11, 2020. The Municipality will follow return-to-play guidelines set out by provincial sport organizations and will also develop its own internal safety protocols for

that power corrupts everyone when they are in office. You are being played, because that is just what they want you to think. They aren’t all the same. There are some good people out there who deserve your support, and I would encourage you to find out who they are.

Colin Creasey Kemptville Dear Editor, Very happy to hear about the FSC and the new partnership in forest management.

We have been so destructive since we arrived on the shores of what has become Canada, in terms of clearing away the forests, and we still do. As stated: “Forests are the air filters for the planet, noxious carbon gases and releasing precious oxygen for the benefit of all life on Earth”. Well said!

Also, thank you to all the contest colouring by adults and children. I think the children’s colourings were particularly creative. Very impressive to my eye. Absolutely gorgeous.

Kath Piché Dear Editor, On June 12, the Mayor of Merrickville-Woldford, Doug Struthers, also director of the County Health Unit, stated in a letter: "due to the fact that Covid 19 has not been eliminated" that the new guidelines were necessary.

Now Covid 19 is a Virus.

users of the facility.

The arena lobby area will continue to be used as a Cooling Centre when temperatures are 31c or higher until August 4, 2020.

What remains closed: Kemptville Pool: The community pool will remain closed for the 2020 season.

The physical design and limitations of the community pool do not allow for social distancing measures, and the municipality is unable to meet public health protocols as stipulated by the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Public Health Unit.

Theatre and Suites: The Municipality is seeking further clarification from the province on capacity limitations. For now, we are unable to rent out the theatre or hall suites until we have more information from Public Health.

We will provide more details of any changes.

The Municipality of North Grenville continues

to put the health and safety of all residents and visitors first. We thank the community for their patience as we move cautiously into Stage 3. The Municipality of North Grenville closed all recreational facilities under Provincial order in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the exception of trails and green spaces. At this time, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is operating with reduced staffing. As part of our response measures for the pandemic, the municipality was unable to hire summer student teams.

Some full time staff have also been re-deployed to fill gaps where needed. We appreciate the public’s patience.

For more information on Recreational Guidelines during COVID-19, please visit www.northgrenville.ca/ coronavirus.

UPDATE UPDATE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

The Municipality has created a dedicated webpage for updates related to COVID-19 (www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus)

COUNCIL MEETING

Tuesday, August 18 at 6:30 pm

PLANNING PUBLIC MEETING – Wednesday, August 19 at 4:30 pm

**NOTE: Council and Planning Public Meetings are being conducted electronically and will be live streamed and archived on the Municipal website. Visit http://www.northgrenville.ca and click on Agendas, Minutes & Video in the Govern tab.

NORTH GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal Office is open to the public with new hours (9:00 am - 4:00 pm). Residents and businesses can continue to access Municipal services by phone, email and online. For more information visit www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus

TENDERS

The Municipality of North Grenville is issuing a request for Building Sanitary Sewer Connection and Holding Tank Decommission at North Grenville Fire Station, 259 County Road 44, Kemptville. See Bids & Tenders under the Work tab at www. northgrenville.ca.

2020 BURN PERMITS & CONDITIONS

In accordance with By-Law 33-12, residents must have a Burn Permit before they have an open-air fire. The fee for a Burn Permit is $15 and available online at www.northgrenville.ca.

Please check conditions prior to burning by calling 613-706-1770 or online to see if there are any burn bans currently in effect.

The Municipality of North Grenville

285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: 613-258-9569 x204 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

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Ontario extends Emergency Orders

We do not have the medical capability to eliminate viruses like a cold, the flu, or Covid.

The best we could ever hope, at least for now, is find new treatments and vaccinations to help eliminate the severity of these corona viruses. If people that are making the decisions haven't done their research, or even know what a virus is and its nature, then we are all in trouble. People also have the misconception that, if the virus is airborne, these masks will block the virus.

One even said the virus was "magic" if it could get through his mask. Micro droplets can easily pass through even medical masks. Disclaimers right on the boxes clearly state that the mask will not stop Covid 19. That is a medical mask. People are under the perception that the virus cannot pass through their mask.

There is a reason that masks are rated. They are tested for size of particulate as to what can and cannot pass through.

They also restrict breathing.

Proof is, that if anyone with respiratory conditions are exempt because they restrict air flow. It is now the local politicians calling the shots on the masks. Under the Emergency Measures Act they are now making decisions that effect liberties on a local level.

Steven Hurndell

The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has extended most emergency orders currently in force under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) until July 29, 2020. Keeping the emergency orders in place provides the government with the necessary flexibility to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations, such as seniors, while continuing to implement its Framework for Reopening the Province with many regions entering Stage 3 last Friday.

"Although the trends in public health indicators continue to improve, we must remain on our guard and only relax emergency orders if and when safe to do so," said Premier Doug Ford.

"By following our gradual plan to reopen the province, we are seeing people get back to work and resume many activities safely. We do not want to undo the tremendous progress we have made together, so I urge everyone to stay the course and follow 5

public health advice."

On July 7, the Government of Ontario introduced the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020 that will ensure important measures remain in place to address the threat of COVID-19 once the provincial Declaration of Emergency has ended.

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OPP Report Dirt bike vs car

On July 10, 2020 shortly after 9:00 p.m. Grenville County OPP was dispatched to a collision on Bolton Road, North Grenville. The driver of one of the involved vehicles contacted police after being struck while turning into a private drive. An individual on a dirt bike had been driving down the wrong side of the roadway, without lights on, and struck the turning vehicle. The bike and rider fled the scene before police arrived.

The rider was described as being in his mid-thirties, some facial hair, wearing a grey hoody and driving possibly a green bike. The rider may also have sustained injury to his left knee.

Another break in at old high school On July 10, 2020 at around 8:00 p.m. OPP Grenville officers responded to a report of another break in at the old North Grenville High School on Prescott Street in Kemptville. This is the fourth break-in/mischief attempt since the beginning of the year. Investigation indicated that culprits gained entry to the property. Residents are asked to be on the lookout for anything or anyone suspicious in the area.

If you have any information on the above investigations or any other please contact Grenville OPP on 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-(TIPS) 8477 or submit your tip on-line at www.tipsubmit.com. Crime Stoppers does not want your name, you don't go to court, and you could earn cash reward.

The Voice of North Grenville

JULY ROAD SAFETY THEME: Share the Road and bike when passing them.

It’s the law.

Motorcycle and bicycle riders may also need to react quickly to poor or unforeseen road and weather conditions.

Because of their size, motorcycles and bicycles are harder to see. When driving near a cyclist or motorcyclist, be alert, always signal and check your blind spots before making a turn or changing lanes. Check twice for motorcyclists and cyclists in the incoming lane before you turn left; and yield to cyclists continuing straight before you turn right.

For the safety of motorcycle and bicycle riders it is recommended they make eye contact with motorists,

With the warmer weather, drivers are no doubt seeing more bicycles and motorcycles on the roadways.

The North Grenville Road Safety Committee is encouraging drivers and cyclists to share the road, and be courteous and respectful of one another.

Cyclists and motorcyclist are more likely to be injured or killed in a collision because they do not have the safeguards when it comes to protection.

Be extra careful when passing cyclists on undivided roads. Passing them too closely can cause the rider to lose control. Always ensure you leave at least one-metre distance between the vehicle

Making masks to support Kemptville Salvation Army

use hand signals and always signal lane changes. Other safety tips include, wearing bright colours to be more visible to other motorists, and always be alert.

The Road Safety public awareness campaign aims to promote safe driving behaviours and make roads in North Grenville safer for all users.

The North Grenville Road Safety Campaign Committee is comprised of the Municipality of North Grenville, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, the Grenville County Ontario Provincial Police, and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

For more details on the campaign visit www.north-

grenville.ca/roadsafety.

Safety tips for Cyclists: • Be Heard - Use your bell, horn, hand signals or voice to communicate that you are passing or approaching.

• Be protected, wear a helmet - a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a fall or collision.

Safety tips for Motorcycle riders: • Don’t follow too closely.

Leaving space gives you time to manoeuvre and avoid a collision.

• - Slow down and be extra vigilant at intersections.

FOOD CORNER

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville I’m a breakfast person: I love all manner of breakfasts, and Red Velvet Waffles are the kind of breakfast you might serve to family, as we all start getting together again. If you have a specialty waffle maker, that is, one that has a design to it, it’s great fun to involve the kids and grandkids. They cook up nicely, look terrific, and are very tasty, particularly if you top them with assorted goodies. My grandson Ayden likes to have cottage cheese on his waffles, and maple syrup adds that special flavour. Mind you, some nice thick whipping cream and fresh fruit work great as well for a festive occasion. A couple of nice fat sausages go nicely alongside as a meat. Enjoy!

Red Velvet Waffles

Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup sugar 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon natural cocoa powder ¾ teaspoon table salt 1 ¾ cups buttermilk ⅓ cup (5½ tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ½ teaspoon distilled white vinegar 2 tablespoons red food coloring Preparation: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder and cocoa in a large bowl. Beat the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla and vinegar together in separate medium bowl until smooth, then stir in the red food colouring. Add the buttermilk mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. Cook on oiled (oil spray) waffle maker.

As always, don’t hesitate to be in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

Debbie Amirault presents cheque to Director of Kemptville Salvation Army Calvin Wong

by Hilary Thomson A local woman has been hard at work over the past few months making face masks and raising money to support food banks in the community.

In an initiative she calls the Mouth 2 Mouth Project, Debbie Amirault has been making masks to keep the community safe from COVID-19, while also raising money to provide access to food for people in need. She decided to sell the masks for $2 each to make sure that they are affordable to anyone in the community, regardless of their income. She also decided to donate all the proceeds to local food banks.

As soon as Debbie posted on the Kemptville Community Bulletin Board on Facebook, she saw an outpouring of people both wanting masks and volunteering to donate material. “Somebody bought material from the local fabric July 22, 2020

store,” she says. “The community support has been amazing.”

With all the donated material, Debbie has been able to make and sell over 200 masks, raising $500 for the Salvation Army food bank.

She was able to raise the money more quickly than expected because many people donated more than $2 to the cause. “People ordering are feeling like they are also giving back to the community,” she says.

Debbie presented the cheque to Calvin Wong of the Salvation Army last week.

Calvin says this initiative not only supports their food bank, but also allows many of their clients to obtain the now mandatory masks at an affordable price. “It’s phenomenal,” he says.

The Mouth 2 Mouth Project has been very rewarding for Debbie so far. Mask-making has become her full-time

job, and it doesn’t look like orders are going to dry up any time soon. “I have orders for at least 200 more,” she says.

Debbie is also very appreciative of her husband, Mike Amirault, who has supported her through many long days filling orders. “I couldn’t do it without his support and all the support from the community,” she says.

She is well on her way to raising another $500, which will be donated to the House of Lazarus food bank. She is still taking orders, but is asking for patience, as she currently has a bit of a backlog. “I am working to fill your orders as quickly as I can,” she wrote on the Kemptville Community Bulletin Board.

“Loving this project, and loving my community.”

Food Bank The Knights of Columbus in Kemptville offers a food bank service to those in need in the community of North Grenville We provide a selection of canned, packaged and dry goods For more information please call Dave at 613 258 3683 Pick up at Holy Cross Church hall preferred – delivery can be arranged if required

This service is supported by the community of North Grenville 6

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The North Grenville Times

255,000 trees planted this spring

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) forestry team successfully planted 255,000 trees this spring, bringing the conservation authority’s overall tree planting total to an impressive 6.6 million.

Trees were planted in partnership with private and public landowners on marginal, empty or idle fields across the watershed. Native seedlings including birch, bur oak, cedar, red maple, white pine and white spruce

took root over several weeks this spring.

“Thank you to our watershed landowners for working with us through this unique planting season,” said Scott Muldoon, RVCA Forestry Program Manager. “With another successful tree planting season complete, we are now looking ahead to next year.”

Staff are looking for landowners wishing to reforest their retired farm fields or otherwise empty and idle lands. The RVCA’s program

is a low-cost, full-service program that includes free site visits, custom planting plans, site preparation, tree planting, follow-up assessments and maintenance to give the seedlings the best chance of survival. All of this is available for only $0.15 per tree, or $120 an acre.

“This program offers landowners easy and affordable tree planting services while helping us meet our larger watershed management goals,” said Muldoon.

The forestry team is booking site visits this summer to plan for the 2021 spring planting season. The planting area must be at least one acre in size, suitable for tree planting and the landowner must be willing to plant 1,000 trees or more.

Typical costs are $0.15/ tree ($120/acre). The RVCA and its planting partners cover all other costs.

Planting partners including the City of Ottawa’s Green Acres program, Forests Ontario, Mississippi Valley Con-

servation Authority, Hulse, Playfair and McGarry Funeral Homes, One Tree Planted, Stingray LiVE 88.5 and the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation contribute to the forestry program to keep costs low for landowners.

RVCA’s reforestation program is a great way for landowners to improve their property. Tree planting is also one of the most practical ways to take care of our watershed and the wider environment.

Over time, the trees reduce erosion, establish a forest canopy, lessen the risk of flooding, store carbon dioxide, and provide a wildlife habitat If you want to plant trees, call Scott Muldoon at 613692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1175 or email scott.muldoon@rvca.ca to learn more.

The Voice of North Grenville

Adam Shewchuk July 25, 2015

For five long years you have lived in my memory.

But some day We'll Meet Again.

Until then I'll be Loving You Always.

Forever, Jean

Do you want to make a real difference in your community?

Do you want to help shape mental health and addictions care?

This opportunity may be for you!

Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (LLGAMH) supports people living with addictions and mental health issues.

It is a publicly-funded Agency. Each year, LLGAMH cares for more than 5,000 clients.

We are looking for volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. This Board fosters diversity and broad community representation. Board members bring a variety of skills to the table. More importantly, they bring a passion for improving the quality of mental health and addictions care in our region.

As a governance Board, these committed volunteers are responsible for key areas such as strategic planning, quality, CEO oversight, and financial stewardship.

To learn more about LLGAMH please visit llgamh.ca

Online: pixeleyecare.ca phone: 613.258.7878

Direct Insurance Billing Available Visualize your dreams today 115 Sanders St, Kemptville www.pixeleyecare.ca

To apply online, visit llgamh.ca/board-of-directors.php before July 31, 2020.

July 22, 2020

BOOK TODAY!

7

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford

Merrickville’s Jazz Fest live shows cancelled live music events in the near future, and our commitment to make health and safety a priority, we feel it is the right one at this time.

Although up until quite recently we had hoped to present our live festival in some way, we are no longer confident that we would have sufficient resources to be able to deliver our MJF concert series safely and in ways that would engage, benefit, and protect the Merrickville community, as well as our

by Susan Piercey – Festival Director After much consultation and very careful consideration of the many variables involved, the decision has been made to officially cancel the presentation of a live edition of MJF 2020. The decision to cancel was not taken lightly; it was an extremely difficult one for us to make.

But given the many ongoing challenges of COVID-19, the uncertainty of what’s to come regarding the presentation of

jazz artists, volunteers, and audiences.

Like so many of you, we at MJF eagerly look forward to a time when we can safely reunite to enjoy live music.

For now, we will look to 2021, in the hope that everything will be in place to allow us to safely present the festival in-person. Until then, we will continue to closely follow developments and recommendations as they are communicated.

We’re going to take a

Merrickville-Wolford council passes new development bylaw

Support Small Support Local

by Hilary Thomson Merrickville-Wolford council held a special meeting on Friday, July 10, to discuss putting a new bylaw in place to streamline the process for new development in the Municipality. The bylaw will give the mayor and CAO the ability to execute Professional Services Agreements with potential developers, which will allow the Municipality to take deposit payments in order to recover costs related to reviewing applications made under the Planning Act. “If we don’t do a Professional Services Agreement, [staff] have to attempt to retrieve the funds after the fact, which can be difficult to do,” CAO Doug Robertson said at the meeting.

Without the bylaw, staff would have to come to council every time they have to execute a Professional Services Agreement with a developer and take the necessary deposit payment to cover costs. This poses a significant challenge, as the planning process has a time limit, and for staff to bring these decisions back to council puts the Municipality at risk of not meeting the deadline. The bylaw would make sure that the Municipality is able to complete Professional Services Agreements with developers in a timely fashion, without putting the process at risk.

“Our lawyer has recommended we put it in place,” CAO Robertson said.

Deputy Mayor Michael Cameron was the only council member at the table who voted against the bylaw. He said he did not feel comfortable delegating that much power to the mayor and CAO. “As this process unfolds, and with more interest to build in the Village, keeping council’s fingers in decisions keeps the process in a more clear view publicly, and for council,” he said at the meeting.

Mayor Struthers clarified at the meeting that this bylaw does not give the mayor any extra power. “All it is doing is affording the opportunity, if a developer in some way shape or form is going to be doing something, to secure a deposit,” he said. “This decision today has nothing to do with the decision making in any aspect of the planning approval process.”

Even with this clarification, Deputy Mayor Cameron was still adamant that the wording in the bylaw was too broad. Councillor Timothy Molloy also seemed to agree that the bylaw was too broad a brush stroke. The bylaw was passed by council, but it may come back to the table in the future to review wording and specifics.

Our retailers, restaurants, service providers, agri-food producers, artists and manufacturers...

are at the he♥rt of our community Please show your support

SHOP LOCAL

Deputy Mayor unhappy with lack of meetings

by Hilary Thomson Deputy Mayor Michael Cameron made it known at the council meeting on July 10 that he is not happy with the fact that council has not yet gone back to regular meetings. He admits that when the pandemic first hit in March, he voted to put the Emergency Management Act in place and to meet as a council on an as-needed basis. However, he started asking to go back to regular council meetings about two and a half weeks later, when the province changed its mandate and direction to allow councils to go back to regular meetings. “Other surrounding municipalities had gone back to regular council meetings,” he said. “We should have been doing the same thing.”

Mayor Doug Struthers says that they have been following the plan that council agreed on at the start of the pandemic. “We passed a very good budget which allows staff to do all the things that are needed over the course of the year,” he said. “When anything has needed to be done, we have had a special meeting.”

Mayor Struthers also noted that council has decided to return to their usual meeting schedule as of July 27.

For small business tools and resources: www.merrickville-wolford.ca July 22, 2020

little break and then resume planning discussions in early August for a potential live MJF next year, as well as to consider the possibility of developing and presenting some limited virtual programming in the Fall so that we may still celebrate the 10th Anniversary Season of MJF in 2020.

Thank you for your ongoing interest and support and best regards to everyone.

8

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Accidental Archaeology The artwork of Pieter Doef tion at the Rideau Regional at the Merrickville Centre for 30 years, all the while continuing with his art Public Library on the side. While all the other

by Michael Whittaker The Accidental Archaeology exhibit by the Rideau Valley Archaeological Society is again open to the visitors at the Merrickville Public Library. Every object of curiosity found has a story to tell.

A chert point, a bayonet, knives, axes, spoons, bottles, musket balls, horseshoes, and more are labeled in the display case. This is an opportunity to imagine our history through relics from many thousand years ago to the early 20th century.

By chance more than intent, many of us are archaeologists because archaeology is the study of human activity through the recovery and study artefacts. Items on display were discovered in gardens, on beaches, in plowed field, and along paths.

Members have lent artefacts primarily found locally, as are a few from Prince Edward Island and Frontenac County.

The Rideau Valley Archaeological Society reminds visitors to wear masks and observe social distancing. Monthly meetings are likely to resume at the end of summer. Please visit the society’s Facebook page. Inquiries and comments may be sent to mpw1749@gmail.com.

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

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

The Big Spend: Supporting local business on July 25

by Hilary Thomson It’s time to take out your wallets and shop local. A nationwide initiative called The Big Spend is encouraging people to make intentional purchases at small, local businesses on July 25, in an effort to help revive Canada’s economy.

The Big Spend was spearheaded by Tim Schindel of Victoria B.C., who is a former Chamber of Commerce president and the founder of Leading Influence, a faithbased organization focused on supporting elected leaders in Canada. “The Big Spend is a God idea for me,” he said in an interview on YouTube. “I really believe that the church can be, and needs to be, ahead of the curve, because we are connected to the Creator. It makes sense that we should be leading in creativity.”

When Tim read in the news that one in ten small businesses would not recover from COVID-19, he was horrified.

“Local businesses are where we go to make our memories, local businesses are always there, and, if we don’t step up now and help them, when they’re gone, they’re gone,” he says. “All we’re doing is stepping up and saying we’re going to support local business and we’re going to help them through this time.”

The Big Spend is encouraging people to become a “Spend Friend” by making a purchase at a small, local business and recording it on The Big Spend’s website. An interactive map will track purchases across Canada and tally the amount of money being funnelled into the economy due to the initiative. Tim says he hopes to see an injection of $100 million into the Canadian economy over the course of the day. “I’m excited to see where this will go,” he says.

Merrickville-Wolford Economic Development Officer, Stacie Lloyd, says this is just one of the many “support local” programs they have come across in Ontario and across the country. “We’re looking forward to seeing what impact smaller communities can have on a larger scale,” she says.

“Even by supporting local businesses, it can help across the board.”

To learn more about The Big Spend and become a Spend Friend visit their website at www.thebigspend.ca.

July 22, 2020

Pieter Doef with one of his many sculptures at his home in Merrickville they immigrated to Canada

by Hilary Thomson because there was nowhere for a young couple to live in The most senior member Holland, due to the devastaof the Merrickville Artists tion of the war. They arrived Guild (MAG) is having an in Smiths Falls in 1950, and art show and sale at the be- Pieter got a job on a mink ginning of August featuring farm, carrying on the tradition over 80 original sculptures. of farming that he knew well Pieter Doef has been creat- from his days working with ing art for as long as he can his father on their tulip farm remember. Born in 1927 in Holland.

Even throughout his days in Andyk, Holland, Pieter in the marines and in the says he started drawing on the edges of newspapers at farming community, Pieter the age of three or four. All continued to create art in his throughout his school years spare time. Eventually, he got he continued to draw and a job doing art therapy at what express himself creatively, was known in those days as including using clay to make the Ontario Hospital School small sculptures. In 1947, he (Rideau Regional Centre) for was drafted into the marines people with mental and physiand sent to Indonesia as part cal disabilities. “They knew of the Dutch attempt to get that I could paint, so they gave the Japanese out of the coun- me a job,” he remembers. “I try after World War 2. When love kids, I love art, so it went he returned home, he met together.”

Pieter stayed in his posihis wife, Wilhelmina, and

staff members were having coffee or smoke breaks between classes, he would stay in the classroom, sketching and creating. “Drawing and art is the only thing I had interest in,” he says. Pieter is predominantly self taught, but took some classes at the Ottawa School of Art in the 1960s under Canadian sculptor Victor Tolgesy. “I had models and learned how to make sculptures from human bodies,” he remembers. “I learned new techniques.”

In 1966, Pieter and Wilhelmina moved from Smiths Falls and bought a home in Easton’s Corners. In 1974, they moved to their 200-acre farm in Merrickville, where there was space for a designated workshop, studio, and his now large family. Pieter became an integral part of the artist community in Merrickville, and was one of the founding members of MAG in 1984. He has also kept close ties to the Smiths Falls community by designing an 18-foot steel sculpture in Rotary Club Park, and an 8 by 24-foot mural for the Smiths Falls District Hospital.

During his career, Pieter also did a small stint teaching art at Smiths Falls District High School, where he was an inspiration for many students studying art. One of them, Ian Wallace, became an illustrator and created a children’s book in his honour.

When Pieter retired from

Trustees agree on a budget for Upper Canada District School Board

by David Shanahan This has been an unusual year for all the school boards in Ontario, what with teachers working to rule, new contracts to be negotiated, provincial government changes to class sizes, curriculum, and then, of course, a global pandemic. The Trustees for the Upper Canada School Board were a month late, but they have agreed a budget for the coming year, and the outlook is rather better than might have been expected.

The budget includes $376,199,304 in revenues from the province this year, with projected expenses of $375,974,444. This is an increase of more than $11 million over last year, and comes largely because of the collective agreements which were signed with the various unions earlier this year. The Trustees were informed by Superintendent Jeremy Hobbs that the new budget could make possible the hiring of 100 extra teachers, something, he said, which would have a very direct impact on students and their education.

There was some concern expressed by trustees about allocating funds to salaries before knowing the full impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the future structure of schools when they reopen. Trustee Jamie Schoular wondered how the budget would be affected should the province cap class sizes at 15 students per teacher. However, he was assured that the collective agreements dictate the salaries, regardless of other considerations, and Director Stephen Sliwa assured him that, should extra hiring be necessary, the Board would be approached to consider that issue. The budget passed, with only John McCrea and Lisa Swan voting in opposition.

9

the Rideau Regional Centre, he became dedicated to his art full time. “I retired, but then I had seven days to work in,” he says. “I don’t know how to stop.” Now 93, his house is filled with thousands of paintings and sketches, and over 80 sculptures are displayed throughout his property. It is clear from his work that Pieter is inspired by florals, as well as the human form. “The human body is a cosmic creation,” he says. “It is perfect.”

Pieter will be holding an art and sculpture sale at his studio at 698 McCrea Road on Sunday, August 9. His daughter, Maria, and granddaughter, Batina, are organizing it, and will be ensuring that everything is laid out so that people can come see Pieter’s work while still maintaining physical distancing. Batina has also created a Facebook page under Artwork of Peiter Doef, to promote the sale and showcase Pieter’s paintings and sculptures.

Pieter is an artist that has truly dedicated his life to his work. Even in his 90s, he is constantly creating and using art to help him make sense of the world around him. His creativity runs deep in his veins, and is something that he doesn’t quite have control over. This is apparent in a phrase that he wrote on the wall of his large studio (much to his late wife’s chagrin): “To paint is a pain, and not to paint is death.”

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan Marketing Consultant

Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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The North Grenville Times

Backyard Astronomy

Comet Neowise crossing the evening sky.

[Photo credit: Gary Boyle]

Comet Neowise

by Gary Boyle - The Backyard Astronomer A bright comet is now in the evening sky and you can see it without a telescope. Comet F3 (NEOWISE) has been a fantastic object in the early morning pre-dawn sky, but will be well placed below the Big Dipper to see and photograph over the next couple of weeks and, hopefully, into August. I have been following and imaging this comet since the first week of July, and could see it even without binoculars (naked eye).

The comet was discovered on March 27, 2020, by the NEOWISE space telescope as it looks for near-earth objects that could potentially impact our planet. Measuring a little more than half the height of Mount Everest, this object falls into the category of a “once in a decade comet”.

Every year, astronomers, both amateur and professional, observe 5 to 10 comets with telescopes. In most cases, they show a green nucleus from the sublimation of frozen chemicals such as ammonia and others. The extremely faint tail is seen when photographed, but all comets are different in composition and appearance, as Neowise does not appear green. The last bright comet that was visible to the naked eye for the whole world to see was Comet Hale-Bopp in 1997.

And, like Neowise, it too had a blue ion or gas tail and a fanshaped dust tail created when comets round the Sun, as this one did on July 3 at a close distance of 43 million kilometres.

Neowise will be closest to Earth on its way out of the solar system on July 22, at a safe distance of 103 million kilometres, and will be starting to fade with a shortening tail as it retreats from the Sun's heat and back to the icy depths of space. Comet Neowise originates from the Oort Cloud, where long-period comets reside, and will return close to 6,800 years from now. Halley’s Comet is a short period comet, originating from the Kuiper Belt. Along with this chart of the comet’s path, many smartphone astronomy apps will also guide you to our celestial visitor. Enjoy this spectacular comet every chance you can, as you never know when the next bright will come to visit.

Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary Boyle is an astronomy educator, guest speaker, and monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He has been interviewed on more than 50 Canadian radio stations and local Ottawa TV. In recognition of his public outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle.

Follow him on Twitter: @astroeducator, or his website: www. wondersofastronomy.com.

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

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

July 22, 2020

The Voice of North Grenville

Happy Birthday Chris! 7th Annual Canada Cares CAREGIVER AWARDS

by Jane Adams Chris Chevalier says she has enough stuff. So, when friends asked what she wanted for her birthday, she had the perfect answer. “I didn’t need any gifts,” said Chris. “So, I asked everyone to make a donation to the Family Care Fund at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital [WDMH] Foundation instead. It was a great way for everyone to support local health care.” Chris’s friends donated $330!

Facebook birthday fundraisers are a new trend that is catching on. They are safe and secure, and donations go directly to the charity via PayPal. Donors can also opt in to get a charitable tax receipt.

Chris has served on the Foundation’s Board for the past several years, and says she has seen the good work being done: “The Family Care Fund supports families just like ours.

Donations are used where they are needed most - to buy new medical equipment, upgrade existing equipment or meet other urgent needs at WDMH.” Cindy Peters, the Foundation’s Manager of Direct Mail & Events, loves the idea and recently did her own birthday fundraiser for WDMH. “I hope that others might be inspired by Chris’s generosity and hold their own Facebook fundraisers,” she says. “It’s a great way to celebrate a milestone and help out WDMH at the same time. Thanks Chris!”

As many as 6 million Canadians are caregivers, caring for children with disabilities, elderly parents and other loved ones who need assistance. Together with an army of health professionals, they’re working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of others.

“Canada Cares has been celebrating and supporting outstanding family and professional caregivers for many years,” says Caroline Tapp-McDougall, Executive Director. “Now, with the added risks and challenges of COVID-19, we think it’s more important than ever to recognize these outstanding heroes through our national Caregiver Awards program.”

Canada Cares is asking for Canadians from coast to coast to nominate people in their lives who demonstrate dedication, tenacity and commitment to care that’s deserving of recognition. They’re also inviting requests for financial assistance with related needs.

One nominee will be selected to win the Canada Cares One Wish Award of $10,000. The recipient of this award, funded by David Powell in honour of his late mother, will be determined based on the strength of the caregiver’s commitment to care and the level of need. Other awards will recognize excellence demonstrated by family and professional caregivers across the country.

Nominations close September 25, 2020. To nominate visit: www.canadianabilities.org/nomination Background: Canada Cares is a program of the Canadian Abilities Foundation, a registered charity that provides information, inspiration and opportunity to people with disabilities, their friends, families and the entire spectrum of professionals engaged in their service, while promoting their full inclusion in all aspects of community life.

Long-Term Care Homes funding model redesigned

The Ontario government announced a redesigned funding model that they hope will lead to the building of additional, modern long-term care homes providing for seniors.

Over the next five years, the government is investing $1.75 billion in long-term care homes. It is also updating design standards to include air conditioning for any new and renovated homes, beginning immediately.

"That's why our new funding model will not only encourage new beds to be built faster, but also upgrade existing older homes to meet high quality design standards, with features like air conditioning and private or semiprivate rooms. Our seniors deserve nothing less," said Premier Ford.

The new funding model will help speed up construction by: Creating four new re-

10

gional categories based on geographic location, each with a targeted home size: large urban, urban, mid-size, and rural. An increase to the province's construction funding subsidy (CFS) will be tailored to each of these four categories, enabling the government to address the barriers and needs of different communities; Providing development grants, between 10% and 17%, depending on regional category, to cover upfront costs like development charges, land and other construction expenses; Helping small operators in rural communities navigate the high cost of development, while ensuring larger urban centres can secure the loans and real estate they need; and Increasing funding to incentivize the construction of basic accommodation and continuing top-ups for small

and medium sized homes.

By taking these steps, the government is trying to make it more attractive for operators to build long-term care homes and bring aging homes with 3-4-person ward rooms up to modern design standards. Currently, more than 38,000 people are on the waiting list to access a longterm care space, and new long-term care home construction has not kept pace.

Working with the longterm care sector, the government will dedicate funding to ensure long-term care homes in need have working air conditioning, a measure that should have been put in place many years ago. With thousands of new and redeveloped beds on the way, the government is also going to be changing long-term care regulations and design standards to ensure that all new

long-term care builds and redevelopments are mandated to have air conditioning.

Between 2011 and 2018, there were 611 long-term care beds built across the province ― less than one bed per home. Long-term care projects dating back to 2018 will be eligible for the new funding model. The modernized funding model will address concerns about the structure and sufficiency of funding raised during formal stakeholder consultations held in January 2020.

The CFS is a per bed per day (per diem) funding amount provided to eligible long-term care homes once they complete a long-term care infrastructure project.

Nearly 78,000 Ontario residents currently live in 626 long-term care homes across the province.

The North Grenville Times

Open For Business

The Voice of North Grenville

Support Local, now more than ever!

Dial A Chef on wheels

Erick Le Pors

Monday to Friday two main courses will be offered, (one meatless option)

Curbside Family Meals Menu #20

Tuesday July 28th - Fri July 31 1:30 - 4:30pm pick up $65 for 4 guests + HST $35 for 2 guests HST $165 for 10 guests+HST www.cateredaffairs.ca All meals include, Local Greenhouse Greens, Chef’s Choice Veggies, and House made Dessert MADRAS CHICKEN CURRY

NEW STORE HOURS Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm

Saturday

8:00am to 6:00pm

Sunday

9:00am to 6:00pm

Biryani Chicken, Peas and Cauliflower, Basmati Rice, Mango Chutney, Yogurt & Vegetarian Samosa with Tamarind sauce

CREOLE SPICED STEAK SALAD

Creole Spiced Tenderloin, Local Greenhouse Greens and Kale, Jambalaya Rice, Cheddar Hush Puppies, and Red Pepper Jelly Vinaigrette

THAI PESTO SALMON POWER BOWL

Thai Pesto; Cilantro, Lime Roasted Peanuts, Chili and Coconut, with Cucumber, Carrot, Red Cabbage, Wild Rice Blend and Vegetable Spring Rolls

BBQ PIT CHICKEN & RIBS

House Made BBQ Sauce, Celery Seed Coleslaw, Corn Relish & Herbed Roasted Wedge Fries

LOW & SLOW TEXAS PULLED PORK

Pickled Watermelon Rind BBQ Sauce, Roasted Smashed Sweet Potatoes, Buns, and Celery Seed Coleslaw

GRILLED CHICKEN LEMONGRASS SUMMER ROLLS

Lettuce, Pickled Carrots, Radish, Cucumber, Rice Noodles and Bell Pepper with Shanghai Noodle Salad with White Miso Vinaigrette and Crushed Peanuts INTRODUCING PALETTE ON THE PATIO... 3 Course Table D’Hôte Dinner Thursday July 30th & August 6th 5-7pm $55.00 per person. RESERVATIONS ONLY!…

613-324-3136.

Monday July 27 1- Chicken provençal with olives and artichoke.

2- Cauliflower steak with roasted pepper and olive salsa Tuesday July 28 1- Harissa and lamb sausage rolls, vegetable tajine, couscous.

2- Grilled Halloumi with spiced couscous and vegetable tajine.

Wednesday July 29 1- Marmelade pork, Baby potatoes, spinach and peas.

2- Garlicky eggplant steak with Romesco sauce Thursday July 30 1- Beef goulash émincé, homemade spätzles.

2- Vegetable goulash, homemade spätzles.

Friday July 31 1- Greek style roast fish with tomatoes and potatoes.

2- Curried vegetable pie Ordering for the week : 10% off Now that we can have groups of up to 50 people inside, and 100 outside,

LET’S PARTY!

(safely) I can arrange tents and all your party needs.

Call now to make arrangements for your next reception.

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613.258.3014

Blueberries / Pickled Red Onion / Pumpkin Seeds / Feta / Honey Vinaigrette Or Calabrese Salad Tomatoes/Arugula/Bocconcini Cheese/Beets/ Balsamic Drizzle Chimichurri Beef Tenderloin Roasted Red Pepper Coulis / Mushroom Risotto Or Marrakech Spiced Salmon Moroccan Quinoa / Blood Orange/ Almonds / Olives / Mint

Baileys Chocolate Pot de Crème Strawberry / Mint Or Pavlova with berry coulis

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Monday to Friday, the cost is $22.50 per person.

Children 12 and under $14.00. There is $5.00 fee per delivery. Payment can be done by cash, credit card, or e-transfer. We need one day advance notice in order to organize the meals and the delivery route. HST extra. Ordering for the week : 10% off Reservation by phone at 613-860-2539 or email : erick@dialachef.ca

PATIO NOW OPEN!

TAKE OUT ORDERS AVAILABLE Salamanders Restaurant and Patio 28 Clothier St E, Kemptville

613-258-2630

11

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

FREE WOOD CHIPS

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Heavy duty treadmill kemptville $125. 613-258-2992 For Sale - 1997 Mustang Cobra Convertible mint.

Pro appraisal $17,500.00 firm. Many images. Call Doug, 613 258-4573.

OLD BEER BTLS AND POP CANS 1970-1998 100’S ALL DIFFERENT BEST OFFER, BRAND NEW ENCYCLOPAEDIA SET NEVER TOUCHED

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PREMIUM FURNISHED OFFICE SPACE IN OLD TOWN KEMPTVILLE, 222 PRESCOTT ST. 178 SQ. FT. AVAILABLE JUNE 1 FOR $460.00/MO. CALL TOM 613 218 1277 U

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Quaker State 5W30 5L $12.00. Castrol 10W30

Training of guide dogs adapted due to COVID-19 from Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind Everyone is adapting to a world with COVID-19, and the way we have to do things has greatly changed.

One forgotten sector of people who are often not considered, are those with visual impairments. Being blind or partially sighted can be difficult under normal circumstances, but add in the challenge of physical distancing when you cannot see, or having to touch many things and be tactile in order to get around, makes a person’s world much more complicated. A guide dog greatly enhances mobility for a person who is blind, but COVID-19 has impacted guide dog training throughout the world.

In March, 2020, Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind [CGDB] had to cancel a residential class of six people who were going to attend the three-week training course to receive a guide dog. Guide dog training stopped, not only in Canada, but in many parts of the world, due to COVID-19. The future remains unknown, but the national charitable organization, training and providing guide dogs to Canadians since 1984, had to figure out how to adapt and continue its mandate.

Residential training had to be put on hold. A group of individuals coming from different parts of the country and living in the same residence became impossible. Physical distancing makes training challenging, as a person who is blind normally works very closely, physically, with a Guide Dog July 22, 2020

Mobility Instructor. Travel restrictions and closures in various parts of the country varied, and having people go to the National Training Centre of CGDB, or going out into the community to train with a guide dog, couldn’t happen.

In late March, CGDB had dogs ready to be matched with Canadians who needed the service, but the future looked grim. That was, unless changes could be made to adapt to a world with COVID-19. CGDB didn’t remain stagnant. Like many charities and businesses, the organization realized that changes were required to remain in operation. It adapted to the fluid situation, so that people who are blind and require a guide dog could still train with and receive one.

Someone who is blind and has never used a guide dog can cope a little easier, but, once you use a guide dog, you will likely always want one. It would be comparable to driving your entire life and your license being taken away. Suddenly, you are no longer completely independent. Without a guide dog, someone may have to rely on other people to get places.

It can be devastating, and it can make the difference between being at home and afraid, or unable to get out, versus living an active and independent lifestyle.

The first step for CGDB was to figure out how training could proceed. Since having clients travel to and reside in a group setting at the National Training Centre wasn’t possible, it was decided to go to the people in what is referred to as

Take a bucket full or take it all.

FIRST STOP RENTALS IN KEMPTVILLE IS HIRING!

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Applicants must have • Minimum 3 years experience driving a 3 ton truck and trailer • Must be 25 years of age or older • A clean driving record • Provide 3 years of previous insured commercial driver history • Provide a letter of experience from their prior commercial insurance company

Find our application online to complete with your resume and email to alexis@firststoprentals.com www.firststoprentals.com

domiciliary training. CGDB decided that their Guide Dog Mobility Instructors would travel to each person’s community and train them with a guide dog, locally, in their own neighbourhood. There are pros and cons to this method, but it meant that the organization could continue to help people during these difficult times.

Residential training could continue, but with only one person at a time traveling to the National Training Centre and living in residence. The analogy is a combination of working at home and in the office.

Some training could be done in a residential environment, but the majority would be in communities across the country.

Some travel restrictions, especially in eastern Canada, are still impacting guide dog training, but CGDB has done everything it possibly can to ensure as many Canadians as possible can still receive guide dogs.

In June, training could only be done within Ontario, where CGDB is located, and nearby communities in Quebec. Training was conducted in Cornwall, Toronto, Guelph and London, as well as Gatineau and Shawville, Quebec. In July, the national service expanded, as restrictions eased in some areas. Individuals from Nova Scotia, Alberta, and British Columbia will be training with guide dogs soon.

“People who are blind need guide dogs, and we have to do whatever we can to adapt to COVID-19 to make sure we continue to help people”, says Jane 12

Thornton, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of CGDB. “We have been doing this for 36 years. COVID-19 forces us to change the way we do things, but we are adapting as best we can in our new world, so that Canadians who are blind can receive guide dogs.”

CGDB is demonstrating that even charities need to adapt due to COVID-19, and they continue helping people locally in our community.

CGDB was established as a registered charity in 1984. It has provided more than 880 professionally trained guide dogs to Canadians who are visually impaired, from coast to coast. You can learn more about CGDB online at www. guidedogs.ca, including how to donate or more about applying for a guide dog.

Village of Merrickville-Wolford

Student Summer Employment 2020 Public Works 2 Labourers (July-Aug.) Salary $14.25/hr Applications for the above positions will be received until the positions have been filled. The envelope or cover letter shall clearly indicate “Public Works”, and be addressed to: Village of Merrickville-Wolford 317 Brock St. West, P.O. Box 340 Merrickville, ON K0G 1N0 Attn: Brad Cole, Manager of Operations Fax: 613-269-3095 e-mail : publicworks@merrickville-wolford.ca We thank all of those who apply but only the parties invited for an interview will be contacted. Information is collected in confidence under the Freedom of Information Act. The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is an equal opportunity employer. www.merrickville-wolford.ca

TENDER # 20-050

SNOW REMOVAL NORTH GRENVILLE UPPER CANADA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD Invites tenders for SNOW REMOVAL & SALT/SANDING for the 2020-2021 & 2021-2022 seasons at our schools in the following regional grouping: NORTH GRENVILLE Tender closes at 3:00:00PM, August 12, 2020 Tender documents may only be obtained by contacting purchasing@ucdsb.on.ca Inquiries may be directed to: Chris Groenewoud, CSCMP, Assistant Manager of Purchasing chris.groenewoud@ucdsb.on.ca or 613-342-0371 ext. 1264

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

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

Where is the proof of economic growth?

by James Bertram Thanks to Steve Hammond for his letter of last week in which he refers to municipal spending ostensibly directed toward the support of local business.

I would like to add a few words to his brief commentary.

To begin, I would like to know how much of the relatively large sums spent actually result in a net positive economic impact for local business and the local economy. Of course, it is obvious from the start that there is benefit for someone.

For example those businesses that produce studies proposing marketing programmes certainly benefit. Their advice doesn’t come cheap. And the everexpanding municipal economic development bureau waxes ever larger and more expensive. Thank you, oh infinitely patient taxpayers of North Grenville. But how much real measured economic development locally has been proven to take place by analysis of all the municipal spending towards that goal?

As I asked when I was on Council, what IS the objective of the municipal economic development office which represents significant expenditure of municipal tax funds? Is it there to accomplish real additional “economic growth? Or is it just there to make Council look good through a seemingly effective programme of “virtue-signalling”? Is it there to provide a nice bonus to companies which provide auxiliary services in the area of surveys and studies?

Of course, the answer I have always gotten has been some version of: “Well, of course there is benefit.

We DO have some economic growth after all.”

And my follow-up question has been and is: “How does one KNOW that the growth they refer to had anything to do with muJuly 22, 2020

nicipal expenditures toward economic growth ?” And when I asked in the past for a cost-benefit analysis and the application of some quantitative and qualitative techniques to give concrete answers to my questions, all I have succeeded in getting is a long list of projects of unknown effect which the municipality has undertaken, projects which have been assumed to produce economic growth. I mean , how could they not? Right.

Well, I actually don’t know, and neither do those who offer these assumptions.

So, it seems to me that if we are to spend tax money towards local economic development and growth, we should be able to demand high-level qualitative and quantitative demonstration of a benefit. And that benefit SHOULD BE in excess of that which could be had if the taxpayers’ money had not been spent in such copious amounts over the years. So far, such concrete information using available econometric techniques has not been provided.

A connected issue is, where do the development funds expended come from?

Pre-Covid tax rates have, so far, been stable. So, does the more recent expenditure come from re-allocated reserves previously set aside by the preceding Council for future needs, like maintenance of important infrastructure? (eg: municipal wastewater treatment system, etc) If so, let’s have our municipal government spell out exactly where the money comes from in the municipal budget. All the while, let’s remember who pays in the end.

In the final analysis, if large amounts are being spent just to show that the Mayor and Council are “doing something”, it would be improper if the amounts spent were ineffectual in having a demonstrable net positive impact on local economic growth. Bear

in mind that taxes paid for ineffective municipal government programmes represents money removed from taxpayers pockets, money which cannot be spent by taxpayers in the local economy. In effect, it represents a diminution in consumer demand in the local economy. And consumer demand is acknowledged to be the major driver of economic growth in the Canadian economy.

Briefly then, how does economic development “machinery” used by the municipality be said to create growth when it has not incontrovertibly been demonstrated that it does so? Taxation toward that purpose represents a diminution in consumer demand in the local economy. How does THAT help economic growth? A serious measure of positive net growth must be empirically and objectively determined, or spending in the economic growth domain must be reined in.

No proven growth, no funds from taxpayer pockets.

Please think about these things when articles are presented by your local government. Is the spending programme effective?

Many are. Some are not and are tax money wasters.

Do spending programmes give provable benefit in core areas of the municipal mandate of responsibilities?

Do funds spent come from reserves so as to keep tax rates down, avoid taxpayer ire, and ultimately negatively affect the municipality’s position relative to future needs? Will current spending necessitate a sudden, sharp future tax raise to compensate for weakened reserves when a future emergency presents itself?

Right now, it is true that Covid 19 poses challenges. So, potentially, does ineffectual and thoughtless spending. LET’s solve real problems, not just those of a political nature.

13

ACROSS 1. Nearly 6. Anagram of "Cabs" 10. It was (contraction) 14. Hangman's knot 15. Lawn mower brand 16. Scream 17. Seeps 18. Decays 19. A Maori club 20. Painkiller 22. Always 23. Abominable snowmen 24. Utilizers 25. Biblical garden 29. Film material 31. Inflammation of the nose 33. Colonist 37. Tie 38. Hit the sack

SUDOKU EASY

39. Inveigled 41. Alien 42. Beginning 44. Violent disturbance 45. A dish of tomatoes and greens 48. Pulsate 50. Gait faster than a walk 51. Beside the point 56. Hindu princess 57. Childlike 58. Eagle's nest 59. Chocolate cookie 60. Cultivate 61. Fogs 62. Alert 63. Unique 64. Mixture of rain and snow

DOWN 1. Dwarf buffalo 2. Godsend 3. Exude 4. Applications 5. Cantankerous 6. Extend 7. Body louse 8. Creative persons 9. Pear variety 10. Typographer 11. Interlace 12. Revise 13. Aspersions 21. Cheer 24. Express audibly 25. Behold, in old Rome 26. "Phooey!"

27. French for "State" 28. Pilotage 30. Spray can 32. Sped 34. 53 in Roman numerals 35. Therefore 36. Lease 40. Leave a train 41. Lightning bug 43. High-pitched 45. To scatter about 46. A kind of macaw 47. Hermit 49. Rays 51. Moving within 52. Head covering 53. Backside 54. Anagram of "Tine" 55. Exam

MEDIUM

HARD HARD

Answer to last weeks crossword

www.ngtimes.ca

Fundamentals:

The North Grenville Times

Fact and faith

by David Shanahan The discussion which has been taking place in the Letters section of the Times, as well as in off-the-record emails, has raised some very interesting facts about faith.

There have been those who find articles on “religion” in the newspaper to be “distasteful”, not simply out of place. Comments have been made that no “religious beliefs can be proven and that a newspaper is not the place to sermonize. We need to keep an open mind and respect the faith and beliefs of others”.

Other readers, meanwhile, have been very supportive of this column and see no reason why there should be complaints against it.

Generally speaking, I find that many critics of

the series display a lack of acquaintance with the New Testament, and there are a number of objections made which lack any detail or examples. It reminds me that the general public can come to believe as fact something that has no grounds in history or reality, and this seems to be the case with some of the critics.

For example, there are yet many who accept that people used to believe that the world was flat, and that sailors would fall off the edge if they sailed too close. This is often used as an example of the gullibility and lack of sophistication of more “primitive” ages. But it is simply untrue.

Whatever about individuals, it was generally known that the world was round, otherwise, fishermen and explorers would not have been

The Voice of North Grenville

so casual about setting out on the ocean. Astronomers and geographers, such as Ptolemy, Hipparcus, and others, were capable of making remarkably exact calculations about the size of the Earth, its relation to the Sun and other astronomical and geographical statistics, given their lack of modern computers and instruments for observing phenomena.

Columbus sailed out on the Atlantic to the west, looking to find India, which he knew was to the east, because he understood the global nature of the planet and expected to circumnavigate to find India and China. It was not his fault that he ran into the American continent instead!

The same sense of superiority over more “ancient” people extends too often to secular thought, as well as religious ones. But these ancient and gullible peoples gave us Plato, Aristotle, Herodotus,

Socrates, Thucydides, Pliny, and so many more intellectuals whose writings and thoughts provided a spark for the Renaissance and Enlightenment when they were rediscovered in the sixteenth century.

The point is that there is a tendency for people who have not actually read the New Testament, to make the same assumptions about it that they make about “primitive” ideas of geography. It is possible to make a long list of these claims and assumptions, all of which give rise to negative presuppositions in the minds of people who accept the mistaken idea that the Bible is not to be taken seriously as history, or as a source of truth. Some of these assumptions are based on the theory that only those things which can be perceived through the senses are real. Scientific theory, however, can simply state that what is perceived is able

to be perceived. It cannot, by its nature, prove that there is no other reality. To believe that would be unscientific.

But that assumption means that, very unscientifically, critics of spirituality declare that any account that includes the transcendent can be immediately dismissed. The correspondent cited above, who claims that no “religious beliefs can be proven” is making the same assumption.

But is that true? What historical support is there for what Christians, or others, believe about their spiritual beliefs?

That is largely the aim of these Fundamentals articles: to present facts in support of faith; to show that faith can be, and should be, intellectually defendable. As I have said many times: if something is true, you can ask any honest question of it and get an honest and genuine answer.

There is no fear in faith, and no blindness either.

It has also been argued that the ideas and beliefs of others should also be represented here. Let me say that any such articles are welcome, as long as it is accepted that they can also be discussed in reply. I don’t write about Christianity only because I happen to be a Christian. I write because I happen to believe it is true in a way no other “religion” is, and I am very happy to discuss those ideas openly and honestly.

Is there room in the paper for such discussions? Why should there not be? These are issues which go to the very heart of who and what we are as human beings. If “religion” is a hoax and a crutch, then forget it, no problem. But if, for example, Christianity and Jesus reflect a truth and a reality as claimed, then that becomes the most important thing we need to know. Nothing else comes close.

land suitable for cultivation.

Only half of the cleared land in South Gower was free of tree stumps. It was calculated that land could be cleared of stumps at an average rate of 1 acre per year.

Perhaps it is a surprise to note that Oxford had more sheep than cows, almost a thousand horses, and 680 hogs. South Gower had more cows than sheep.

The Commissioners asked what market facilities the townships enjoyed, and Kemptville is listed by both Oxford and South Gower as the nearest market. For South Gower, the Village was just half a mile away, and Oxford noted that Kemptville itself was just half a mile from the railroad, meaning the station at Bedell.

As for local industries, South Gower reported that they had “No industries excepting one cheese factory, situated at a place called Heckston”. Oxford was in a slightly better position, being able to boast of two cheese factories, “located at Oxford mills and Bishop’s mills”.

Sadly, Wolford’s answer to what local industries they enjoyed was simply: “None”.

Another interesting statistic from the Report is that both South Gower and Oxford remained well-covered with trees. Oxford had 20,000 acres under trees, about onethird of the land, made up mainly of ash, elm, cedar, beech, maple and tamarack, which is described as good for “fencing and building purposes”. South Gower had

about 8,000 acres of trees, much the same kind as Oxford, which were also used primarily for “firewood, fencing, and sawed into lumber”.

Of the cultivated land, Oxford’s main crop was hay (8,000 acres), oats (7,000 acres), and rye (5,000 acres).

There were 1,000 acres each of potatoes, buckwheat, and peas. The main crops in South Gower were oats (2,500 acres), spring wheat and barley (2,00 acres each) and hay (1,500 acres). Neither the farmers in Oxford nor South Gower used “salt, superphosphate, lime, plaster, or other artificial fertilizers” on their land.

In both townships, 75% of farmers were using “improved farm machinery, reapers, mowers, seed drills, and

sulky rakes”, whatever they were. The farms were progressive, it seems, and the farmers’ homes were 60% brick or stone in Oxford.

However, in South Gower, 92% of the houses were still log or “inferior frame” in construction.

It is good to remember that, behind the dry statistics, lies innumerable stories of real people; men and women and children who lived and worked on the land we now share. With no electricity, no tv or internet, and very few modern luxuries, they were, at the time of the Commission Report, turning a forest into farms, building roads and communities that became the Municipality of North Grenville. Snapshots can tell many stories.

History

A moment in time

Photo: Samuel C. Wood, who brought us our snapshot of history

by David Shanahan For the historian, a document will come along that provides a unique opportunity to look at a particular moment in the past and a snapshot of a society at a particular point in time become visible. Thanks to a man named Samuel Casey Wood, such a snapshot of North Grenville in 1880 is available.

Samuel Wood was the Commissioner of Agriculture for the Province of Ontario from 1875 to 1883, as well as being Provincial Secretary.

In his Annual report to the Provincial Assembly in 1879, he suggested that a commission be established "to inquire into the agricultural resources of the Province of Ontario, the progress and conditions of Agriculture therein, and matters connected therewith."

An Order-in-Council was passed on April 3, 1880, and the Commission got to work July 22, 2020

compiling an amazing set of statistics on the state of agriculture in each of Ontario’s counties. Questionnaires and circulars were mailed out to municipal offices requesting statistical data, and open hearings were held across the province in order that the committee might gather views and opinions. The commissioners also obtained evidence from the other provinces, the United States and Great Britain.

The final Report, presented in 1881 gives that snapshot of the state of affairs in Grenville County in 1880, and it makes for fascinating reading. At the time, North Grenville was still separated into the Townships of Oxford-on-Rideau and South Gower, as well as the Village of Kemptville. The Report shows that Oxford had a population of 3,333, South Gower had just 883 residents.

Wolford Township had almost 2,000 inhabitants, although residents of that township will be upset to note that the Commission referred to it as “Watford”, not Wolford..

It is interesting to note that, almost 80 years after the first settlers arrived, Oxford had only half of its land cleared for agriculture, although it was believed that about half of the uncleared land would be suitable for cultivation, if cleared. South Gower was even less cultivated, with only 3,629 of its 22,000 acres cleared, again with half of the uncleared

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www.russellmeadows.com 14

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Photography Club Stand by Me "We have been fortunate that Covid 19 virus has not affected our residence.

This is due to the vigilance of staff and the people living here. I personally am grateful for the smiles and kind words that I have both given and received and new friendships formed. They have had a positive effect on how I feel physically, and emotionally. They also helped to ease the loneliness of missing family. Those friendships are like gems that shine out to let me know that I am not alone." (Dot) Dorothy LeBlanc Kemptville Retirement Living

A HUGE thank you to the North Grenville Photography Club for joining this project to photograph seniors in our community. Seniors are coping during isolation; however like most of us, the loneliness from being apart from loved ones and the ‘normal’ way of life is there.

Please remember to stop and say hello to your neighbour (we now know the 6’ rule ) or call on the telephone, or wave when you see them at the window or outside. Another component we would like to add to these segments is advice from seniors. Do you have advice for those of us following? It can relate to anything, and it doesn’t have to include your photo if you would prefer.

Now Seniors, we are looking for people to photograph, and some advice from you… please contact Maggie at production@ngtimes.ca or 613-215-0735; or Susan Smith at KDHSI Seniors’ Community Services 613-258-3203 or susan.smith@kdhsi.com We look forward to hearing from you!

Helen Lear Kemptville Retirement Living

The Covid Community Quilt project continues P: 613.774.1672 F: 613.774.6612 12205 Gypsy Lane Winchester, ON, K0C 2K0

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We had a successful turnout for the Covid community quilt art project. Many socially distanced connections were made, as we learned of each other’s struggles, lessons, and moments of gratitude through these difficult times. The effort and time spent in the creation of many of the pieces was beautiful and inspiring to have been a part of.

Thank you to all who came out to contribute to this piece and also to the B&H. Please keep an eye out for notice of the final installation, which all will be able to visit.

Tara, Maggie and Pat

Ron & Mavis Elstone Celebrate 65 Years Friends, family and neighbours turned out in ‘droves' last Thursday evening to help longtime Bishop’s Mills residents Mavis and Ron Elstone celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary.

While the couple sat on their porch, over 35 carloads of wellwishers paraded by, honking, waving and offering best wishes, cards and flowers to the couple.

Even a tractor from the Streight family farm joined the parade.

The NG Times’ Maggie Boyer made a special giant ‘cake’ for the occasion. The community wishes them many more years together. photo courtesy of Victor Deroches

photo courtesy of Tom Graham July 22, 2020

15

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The North Grenville Times

Kemptville pool lifeguards become Swimming Buddies NG

Le Cepeo Adopte un Budget Équilibré De 292 Millions $ Le Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO) est fier d’annoncer l’adoption d’un budget équilibré de 292 millions $ pour l’année scolaire 2020-2021, soit une hausse de budget de 6 % par rapport à l’année 2019-2020.

Le président du Conseil, Denis M. Chartrand, a déclaré : « Le budget 2020-2021, adopté dans un contexte particulier, prend en compte les enjeux actuels afin de pouvoir continuer d’offrir à nos élèves un apprentissage en langue française de qualité, tout en respectant les directives de santé publique et du ministère de l’Éducation pour la réouverture de nos écoles à la rentrée 2020-2021.

Nous sommes heureux de constater que l’éducation francophone publique est toujours en forte demande. Je tiens à remercier l’ensemble des équipes du CEPEO pour l’excellence de leurs pratiques de saine gestion financière qui permettent de poursuivre le développement de notre Conseil afin de toujours mieux répondre aux besoins de nos communautés scolaires sur l’ensemble de notre territoire. » « Ce nouveau budget reflète l’approche pédagogique novatrice de notre Conseil. Nos équipes administratives et pédagogiques sont plus que jamais mobilisées pour offrir les meilleures conditions d'apprentissage et d'enseignement à nos élèves et notre personnel », d’ajouter Ann Mahoney, directrice de l’éducation et secrétaire-trésorière du CEPEO par intérim.

Le budget 2020-2021 soutient la réussite scolaire des quelques 17 000 élèves des 43 écoles du CEPEO ainsi que la réussite professionnelle de ses employés. Les faits saillants du budget 2020-2021 sont : ● Une hausse préue des effectifs de 4,3 %, ● Le maintien de tous les programmes éucatifs du CEPEO, ● Les nouvelles exigences de cours en ligne, ● Les nouvelles conventions collectives néociés, ● La réuction de taille des classes au secondaire, ● Les déenses en immobilisations pour 5 projets de construction / réovation majeurs en cours.

Pour des renseignements suppléentaires au sujet du budget 2020-2021 : veuillez consulter le budget et les éats financiers consolidé.

Photo from Swimming Buddies NG Facebook page this year.

The Swimming Buddies now have a Facebook page where they will be posting several videos a week, from Monday to Thursday. There will be something for everyone, including workouts for competitive swimmers, instructional videos on how to swim, fun water games, and, of course, lots of water safety information.

The nine Swimming Buddies are all volunteering their time to bring this resource to the community, with many having other summer jobs.

“We wanted to continue to work together to offer this,” Brett says. They also wanted to find a way to bring the Kemptville pool to the com-

by Hilary Thomson The lifeguards and swim instructors at the Kemptville community pool have banded together to bring water safety and fun to the community, virtually, this Summer. Kemptville pool lifeguard, Brett Scott, came up with the idea for the Swimming Buddies when they found out the pool wouldn’t be opening this Summer. With many pools and beaches being closed due to COVID-19, the Lifesaving Society is worried that drowning might be a bigger issue, with more people opting to swim in unguarded areas.

Brett says the tight knit group at the Kemptville pool wanted to do their part to make sure everyone is safe in the water

munity this Summer, even if it couldn’t be open physically.

To keep up with what the Swimming Buddies are doing, check out their Facebook page under Swimming Buddies NG. They would love to have people share photos of swimmers having fun in the water on the page, and are also willing to give some instruction, if participants want to send them videos over Facebook. “We’re doing this to support and stay in touch with the community!” it says on their Facebook page.

“Our inbox is always open for questions or conversation.”

Moving Forward – Together LLGAMH is Recruiting Board Members

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Each year, Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (LLGAMH) cares for more than 5,000 clients. LLGAMH’s ‘One Door – One Number – One Click’ philosophy ensures easy access to the support that clients living with addictions and mental health challenges need. Now LLGAMH is ready to elevate that care even further – with a new Board of Directors leading the way.

Over the past few months, LLGAMH has focused on developing a sustainable plan to strengthen the Agency and better support clients. To continue on this path, LLGAMH is recruiting a new Board of Directors. As a governance Board, these committed volunteers will be respon-

sible for key areas such as strategic planning, quality, CEO oversight and financial stewardship.

“We want to ensure that the Board is representative of all of the communities across Lanark, Leeds and Grenville and their unique health care needs,” explains LLGAMH Supervisor Eric Hanna. “We also want to be sure that the Board has the capacity to provide insight, oversight and foresight into the complexities of providing services in an integrated healthcare system.”

Board members bring a variety of skills to the table. More importantly, they bring a passion for improving the quality of mental health and addictions care in our region.

“We are looking for people who want to make

a real difference in their community and want to help shape mental health and addictions care,” adds Eric Hanna.

LLGAMH supports clients throughout Lanark, Leeds and Grenville – from Brockville to Almonte to Delta to Lombardy to Seeley’s Bay. Its programs and services range from counselling services, to group programs, to treatment homes.

Central Intake provides a single point of access and clients may self-refer for most services. Support is also provided to family members and caregivers.

For more details about the LLGAMH Board of Directors, please visit llgamh.ca/board-of-directors.php. Applications are being accepted online until July 31, 2020.