Kids Take the Stage in Honk! Jr. this weekend
Free performances at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, August 22–24
Walk, waddle, flap and fly to the North Grenville Municipal Centre this weekend for the Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company (KYMTC) summer camp production of Honk! Jr..
This musical version of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling shares a message about selfacceptance, diversity, and finding your place in the world. The show runs about one hour, plus a 20-minute inter-
mission.
The summer camp is led by Artistic Director, Kathleen Konopka, and Music Director, Phillip Konopka. It welcomes students in Grades 2–8 for a four-week program that ends with a full production. Campers learn lines, songs and choreography to bring the musical to life. Past shows have included Frozen Jr. and Moana Jr.
“Honk Jr. is a great story and we’ve been
working really hard,” says camper Leona Cuccaro. “After watching the musical, I think the audience will feel happy and surprised. Little kids might see us on the stage and say, ‘I want to do that one day.’”
Showtimes:
• Friday, August 22, at 7:00 pm
• Saturday, August 23, at 1:00 pm
• Sunday, August 24, at 3:30 pm
Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre.
Admission:
• Tickets are free
• KYMTC welcomes donations, which support the nonprofit’s future programming
• Seating is first-come, first-served
• Doors open 30 minutes before showtime
For more information: Website: kymtc.org. Facebook: facebook. com/KemptvilleYouthMusicalTheatreCompany Instagram: @kymtc_
Eco-Kiddos paddle into learning on Canoe Adventure Day
by North Grenville Public Library
After a summer of hands-on environmental workshops at the North Grenville Public Library, local youth will take their learning to the water on Thursday, August 21, for the highly anticipated Canoe Adventure Day.
The event is the culmination of weekly eco-literacy sessions for children ages 6 to 12, organized by the Rideau Roundtable and Eco Literacy Centre. Participants, dubbed the “EcoKiddos”, will embark on a guided canoe tour that
reinforces key environmental concepts including wetlands, watersheds, biodiversity, invasive species, and the water cycle. The tour will also explore Indigenous relationships with land and water, and include water sample collection for later testing.
In addition to the canoe excursion, the day’s schedule features three interactive stations:
• Birdhouse Building: A hands-on activity promoting habitat awareness.
• Orienteering and Outdoor Safety Workshop: Led by Ottawa outdoor educator Eva Moons, this session teaches navigation, map reading, and survival strategies. The workshop responds to recent concerns about children’s safety outdoors, aiming to empower
youth with practical skills.
• Team-Building and Citizen Science Activities: Designed to foster collaboration and environmental stewardship.
“We want all children in our community to experience and understand how nature sustains life,” said Peter Au, Chair of the Rideau Roundtable. “Our goal is to establish eco-literacy hubs at regional libraries and build a network connecting schools, agencies, and nonprofits offering ecology education.”
The Eco Literacy Centre’s mission is to promote environmental awareness through experiential learning. A 2024 federal report found that 80% of Canadians want more information on climate change, underscoring the need for pro-
grams like this.
For updates and future workshops, visit the North Grenville Public Library’s website at www.ngpl.ca, or the Eco Literacy Centre at rideauecoliteracy.com.
August Kemptville Lions club draw
by Willy Heidebrecht
Lions Wayne Vachon and Jason Beck completed the Trip of the Month Club draw outside at Catered Affairs. The winner of the
$1500 August cash prize is Derek White. The final draw for the 2024-25 ticket series will be on September 8 at Catered Affairs, followed immediately by the
first draw of the 2025-26 ticket series. This will take place at 6:30.
$12,000 in proceeds of the 2024-25 fundraiser have been distributed to ten qualified charities and the recipients of $1200.00 each are:
- The Salvation Army Food Bank, - House of Lazarus, - Knights of Columbus Food Bank, - Seniors Community Services, - Kemptville Community Living Association, - Kemptville Legion,
CHEO,
- Guide Dogs of Canada, - Kemptville District Hospital – Mental Health Foundation, - Camp Quality,
A huge thank you to the community for your tremendous and continued support. Thank you also to the Lions that volunteer tirelessly of their time. Want to learn more about our club and Lionism? Check out www.facebook. com › kemptvillelions, or contact a Lion you know.
Modern Square Dancing for Fun and Fitness -Kemptville Square Dance Club:
Join us for 2 free Open House Square Dancing at the Kemptville Municipal Centre -September 29 and October 6, 2025 at 7pm Mondays.
Few people are aware that square dancing has evolved from simple barn dancing to a modern, upswept version. Each week from September through April a dedicated group of dancers meet for this lively activity that merges fun, fitness and friendship. Our club, known as the Grenville Gremlins has members from Kemptville, Merrickville, Manotick, North Gower,Osgoode, Spencerville, Winchester, and many other nearby communities.
If you can listen, count, and walk to a beat, you too can enjoy square dancing. All ages are welcome, from young adults to active seniors, couples and singles (no partner required), as there always are willing partners to help form "a square". There is no "standard" dress code either - just wear what is comfortable.
Our "caller"; choreographs and teaches dances to a great variety of music genres - you never know what will come up next. Soft rock, easy listening, country, calypso, and even classical, not to mention seasonal favorites are on the menu.
Beginning dancers start .... at the beginning, being taught a few steps each week and joining in on the basic dance numbers. As time goes on you will be surprised by the variety of steps and combinations that you are introduced to, with a lot of laughs and fellowship.
Why not give it a try? Bring a friend or neighbour to the next Open House sessions on September 29 and October 6 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre(Kemptville) for a fun social evening with a bit of exercise thrown in. For more information email to:grenvillegremlins09@gmail.com, checkout our website at Grenville Gremlins or call Robert at 613-853-5634. See you there!
The North Grenville Men’s Shed is searching for a year-round shop space of 1500-2000 square feet within approximately 5km of downtown Kemptville.
Essential needs are as follows:
• Heated
• Bathroom
• Kitchenette
• Wood floor
• Adequate lighting and sufficient electrical outlets for a shop
• Bone dry environment for expensive machinery
• Parking for at least ten vehicles
• Ground floor
Our group is mostly self-funded and has limited income. Our requirements include many community-oriented projects such as bike racks and signage for the Red Shoe Triathlon, child benches, raised garden beds, veggie trugs, wood turned items, upkeep to the Kemptville Youth Centre, the bat house project and a variety of other projects. NGMS serves the needs of retired men who enjoy camaraderie and service to the community. We currently have 35 registered members.
We would recognize any person or group that would provide free or low-cost space to us as we are a not-for profit organization.
A new sign in the Downtown Core
Visitors and residents driving into the Downtown Core may have noticed a beautiful new addition: a striking sign that proudly reads Welcome to Downtown Kemptville, now standing at the entrance of the Downtown Triangle. This new sign serves as a warm and welcoming reminder that you are entering the vibrant heart of our community.
Brought to life through the support of the Municipality of North Grenville, the sign is a symbol of the continued investment in the growth and identity of our downtown.
The Old Town Kemptville BIA is proud to represent the incredible group of community-minded small businesses that make Downtown Kemptville such a unique and thriving destination. Shop, Dine, Enjoy Downtown Kemptville!
Come see it for yourself—and while you're here, explore all that our downtown has to offer!
Blues at the Street Piano with Jesse Greene
by Lisa Poushinsky
The Kemptville Street Piano welcomes back Canada's "one of a kind" blues woman Jesse Greene, who is coming to rock the place with her no-nonsense blues mix of originals and creative covers. You could easily assume that she grew up near Memphis, or maybe as far away as Texas, for when she plays it sounds like she is channeling old Eddy "Cleanhead Vinson." Singing with the "smoky timbre of Bonnie Raitt" and "the wonderful raspiness
of Janis Joplin," the Jesse Greene Band won the Ottawa Road to Memphis competition and were finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
Based now in Toronto, where she took the city by storm and was awarded the 2024 Amy Louie Grossmans music scholarship for artist development, Jesse is ready to show us her sweeter side in a solo set with original tunes, still featuring her monster guitar chops.
"From Blues and Rock n' Roll to cosmic Soul from beyond... Jesse Greene and her band make my big toe shoot right out of my boot. These guys rock, period." - Tony D, Canadian Blues Ace and founding member of the acclaimed Ottawa
based band "Monkeyjunk". What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents Who? Jesse Greene When? Saturday August 23, 1pm, rain or shine Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace (indoors in case of inclement weather) How much? Free! Want to support the music?
The Kemptville Street Piano is a non-profit concert series that relies on grants, and we will gladly accept donations and discuss sponsorship opportunities (contact us at kemptville.street. piano@gmail.com).
Learn more about Jesse at www.thejessegreeneband.com.
Fly me to the Moon
by David Shanahan
Ah, the logic and timeliness of Canadian industrial disputes. As we face up to American bullying and a volatile economic future, we have decided to create a crisis in, not one, but two essential Canadian services. This is probably nor the fault of the unions involved, much more so the responsibility of the corporations determined to maintain the benefits accruing to directors. But what fun for those of us who are adversely affected by the shenanigans.
I speak of what I know, believe me. The Times depends on Canada Post to distribute the newspaper every week. The last time there was a strike, just a few months ago, we found it impossible, no matter how hard we tried, to hand
deliver 8,500 copies of the Times to every home in North Grenville (aside from those serviced via Merrickville Post Office, but that’s another issue entirely). We have had to decide that, in any future Post Office strike, the Times will simply have to cease publication for the duration.
Having come to that conclusion, what do we find? Canada Post unions have now voted to reject Canada Post’s latest contract offer, and another strike is now on the cards. This will have, I think, a devastating impact on Canada Post’s future, which was already looking more than a little shaky. Who writes and mails actual letters these days, aside from some very faithful readers of the Times (hi, Kath P.!)? Emails, texts, and social media posts have made letter-writing an anachronism
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor, “Grocery stores mull ending alcohol sale over Ontario’s recycling rule”
Another boondoggle by Doug Fraud, our Ontario Premier. The Ontario Deposit Return Program has been running like clockwork for many years now.
Our alcohol-rabid Premier, looking for a quick win to keep us all drunk and stupid, decided to expand sales in Ontario, to corner stores and grocery chains.
But guess what? No grocery store in its right mind wants to take back stinky empties, store them and then send them somewhere for recycling. And no corner store has the space to store these empties. But Doug Fraud isn't listening. He's just saying, yeah they'll take them back, they'll work it out. I've told them they have to.
Well, guess what Dougie Boy? While you were threatening the Orange Man down below us, but then pulled back your threat to cut the power to eastern US states, these stores were taking a closer look at your idiotic plans.
And yet, being tonedeaf to the room as per usual, you then made the next move in your nefarious plan, to close Beer Stores, the ONE PLACE that consumers can return their empties and get their deposit back. And be assured
in this post-literate society of ours. Fewer people, especially younger people, can even write their names in cursive, much less read hand-written things.
Parcel deliveries and business accounts, such as the one with the Times, are what keeps Canada Post going, so a settlement of any industrial action is essential for the corporation’s continued existence. This assumes that the corporation wishes to continue as it exists at the moment. Perhaps the higher-ups would prefer to dispense with postal workers and post offices entirely in order to operate in a different environment?
But mediation in that dispute has been put on hold for the moment, and meetings between the two sides with federal mediators scheduled for August 14 and 18 were postponed. Why postpone such a criti-
their empties are being recycled and not landing in the ditches or landfill sites.
Since we aren't flush in landfill sites, maybe consumers should save up the empties they can't return to the now-closed beer stores, the grocery stores, and the corner stores, and dump them on the steps of Queens Park? I say let's do it. Rent a few U-Hauls and load em up with all the beer cans, wine bottles, spirit bottles, cooler cans and wine bladders. THAT would make an impression, don't you think?
Maybe then our Premier could focus on more relevant issues like housing starts, which are in the negatives for our province. And funding to hospitals, like Kemptville Hospital so they could afford another ER doc and a few more nurses. One can only dream. Lynn Kennedy
Dear Editor,
Thank you for your Editorial, “This town ain’t big enough for both of us”. The town certainly has changed in these past few years. The traffic on Prescott Street south is crazy by times. The dump trucks go back and forth so many times in a day, hauling full loads. I’ve counted several in just five minutes, sometimes. I see the building here the old Public School was. The one
cal meeting? Because those federal mediators have been switched to the Air Canada dispute instead. Indeed, a second major industrial crisis erupted after long months of fruitless talks and negotiations between unions and management. Just as with Canada Post, I might add.
As regular readers of this paper will know, and as friends and neighbours of mine will wearily attest, Air Canada hates me. I mean, personally, It is the only possible explanation for the many, many times they have failed to land me and my luggage in the same place at the same time. Usually, I end up, as planned, in Dublin, while my luggage takes a completely different route. Most often, Frankfurt is the favourite destination for my suitcase, but other cities have been visited too. I could provide a fas-
apartment building is huge, with three more to be built. The small town character, as David states, is gone.
It would seem that most important to our local government is acquiring money from tax revenue. Of course, this must be done; but I think it shouldn’t be done at the expense of the taxpayers and the beauty of the town itself. In particular, for example, back to Reuben Street?
What they have done there is a disaster or the surrounding area. I spoke to one lady who has a lovely flower garden in front of her home. She’s had to listen to all that horrible noise for how long now? A long time.
Also, not to mention the dirt and dust, heavy machinery in and out of the area, and dump trucks constantly, stone crushers and jack hammers. I just can’t imagine what it’s like for these people, and also for those on Blossom Road behind them. That cannot be pleasant.
And then will come the traffic, coming and going to these three humongous apartment buildings. Where is the Green” in any of this?
We’re supposed to be helping stop climate change, not encouraging it. Are you listening, you in power? No, follow the money. As David says in his Editorial, “Too much green
cinating list of other Air Canada-related attempts to drive me insane, but my acquaintances are already too familiar with them and would recent further rants on the subject here. Suffice it to say that, almost as soon as I booked tickets for a visit to Ireland, Air Canada’s workers decided to strike and stop flights. Now, some may think that is coincidence, but I am now reduced to such a state of paranoia that I think it is nothing less than the most recent attempt to scramble my brain. But I may be taking it all too personally....
members. But corporations have deep pockets and can afford to wait out the funds of unions supporting workers on strike. Someone needs to intervene when it comes to essential services so everyone’s rights can be respected. And I need to get on that flight to Ireland. And my suitcase misses visiting Frankfurt. Fly me to Dublin, and I’ll probably end up on somewhere else, if not the Moon.
gone, too much concrete in its place”. Sincere thanks again for this very important Editorial.
Kath Piché
Dear Editor, I have not been in any way associated with the airline industry. However, I was curious as to why the Attendants are striking. I Googled “Flight Attendant Strike against Air Canada”. This is my rendition of what I persevere to be the reason. Flight Attendants are expected to arrive at the boarding gate 60 to 90 minutes before a flight departs. That is work that is not paid for by Air Canada Corporation. During that time, the flight attendants do a number of safety checks to make so everyone on the flight arrives at their destination safely.
First, the Attendants conduct a thorough preflight checklist to make sure everything is safe, comfortable, and in order for the passengers.
Secondly, the flight Attendants participate in a briefing on flight plans before any passengers are allowed in the airline cabin. The Attendants make sure the “pre-boarding” passengers are aided in safely
cont'd on page 5
Taking it on a broader view, it does seem that this is a very inopportune time for both Crown Corporations (or to be accurate, Air Canada is “the flag carrier and the largest airline of Canada”), to cease operations. This is not to disparage the genuine and urgent grievances of the workers involved, and the height of the tourist/holiday season is certainly the best time for Air Canada workers to put pressure on management), and how else can workers fight against corporations?
Air Canada workers decry the government’s move to impose binding arbitration on them, but what is the choice in essential service areas when protracted talks between two sides result in deadlock? The workers’ case seems strong, and arbitration should, if conducted fairly, result in success for them, although no-one gets everything they want from arbitration. Constitutional rights matter, as do the rights of unions to organise and act on behalf of their
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Letters cont'd
being seated and luggage stowed.
Thirdly, once everyone is seated and all luggage stowed safely, the Attendants review the cabin safety measures in case of an emergency. These duties are expected free protocol by Air Canada. The Attendants do not get paid until everyone is tucked in and all items are stowed safely. Once all that is done, the Flight Attendants buckle themselves in as the airplane is rolling down the runway.
The Flight Attendants have a very large responsibility for people and do these things for free.
How many times, I wonder, has the Canadian Government bailed Air Canada Corporation out of bankruptcy protection because of mis-management. Yet this Canadian Government bank roller cannot offer the very important attendants, who go above and beyond their duties, a living wage.
Not A Fan of Air Canada
Josephine Herman
Kemptville Legion gives back to the community
by Marguerite Boyer
The Kemptville Legion recently presented donations to several local organizations: House of Lazarus ($740), Salvation Army ($740), Kemptville Youth Centre ($740), and the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation ($4,484).
These funds were raised through the Legion’s Bingo events and 50/50 draws, with totals calculated as of March 1. This is another wonderful example of how our service clubs give back to the community, made possible thanks to the continued support and participation of local residents. These events are open to everyone, and together, we’re making a real difference.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our sponsors, auction donors, players, and volunteers. Your incredible support made this year ’s event a tremendous success!
Proceeds from the tournament will bring us one step closer to puchasing a new x-ray machine, that will significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of patient care www.kdhfoundation.ca
Chaucey Currry of the Salvation Army Roxanne Trumble-Elliston of KYC
Cathy Ashby of HOL
Andrew Wilda, Veteran Service Officer, Cindy Smith, Executive Director of KDHF, Margret Norenberg, Chair, with Mike Amirault, Vice President and Lottery Chair
Janet-Lee Ferris, volunteer coordinator at BDH
North Grenville in Bloom: A Community Shining Bright
by Talia Hreljac
This week, North Grenville truly bloomed and was ready to show off its beauty for the judges from Communities in Bloom. Communities in Bloom is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility, and beautification through community involvement and the challenge of an evaluation program, with a focus on enhancing green spaces in communities.
The Municipality of North Grenville, the Communities in Bloom Committee, numerous organizations such as the Downtown Kemptville BIA, the Horti-
cultural Society, the Kemptville Men’s Shed, and many volunteers came together to ensure that North Grenville was shining its brightest, even when Mother Nature decided that the main touring day was the perfect time to open up the heavens for some much-needed rain.
The two days were jampacked with excitement, including a welcome dinner at Catered Affairs and tours through the North Grenville Historical Society Archives to kick things off, and then a second day that started with a fascinating history tour given by Dr. David Shanahan. (Did you know that Kemptville was once called Clothier’s Mill or that we
were once one of the biggest exporters of cheese? I sure didn’t, but I’m eager to dive into learning so much more about the history of this beautiful town.) There was also breakfast at the North Grenville Historical Society, followed by a tour through Kemptville and the surrounding hamlets, ending with a delicious dinner at the Kemptville Brewing Company.
Communities in Bloom isn’t just about the awards, it’s about how it unified the community. It brought together volunteers, business owners, and the municipality to showcase what a proud, and unique place North Grenville is to live.
Many people took the time to clean, weed, garden, and make sure everything was looking its very best. It’s also an opportunity to see our town from an outside perspective and receive helpful feedback on how to continue improving.
As we walked through the downtown core, I wasn’t looking at it through rose-coloured glasses anymore, but it was still as bright and gorgeous as ever. My recommendation is that you take a moment this weekend to check it out, and, quite literally, smell all the roses that are blooming.
St. James Graveyard Tour
by Marguerite Boyer
On August 13, the judges from Communities in Bloom were in town. Their first stop, at 7:30 a.m., was St. James Cemetery, and waiting to welcome them were Karen Nickleson, President of the North Grenville Historical Society; Councillor Debbie Wilson; Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan; Talia Herljac of the BIA; Ashley Cuthbert of the Municipality, and several members of the community. The day began under a heavy sky, with the threat of thunderstorms looming.
Much preparation had gone into the event. Local historian Dr. David Shanahan carefully compiled a list of tombstones belonging to prominent figures who had made a significant impact on the area over the decades. With the help of the St. James Cemetery Committee, a detailed map was created, and members of the Committee flagged each selected grave.
As we visited each site and read the inscriptions, I was struck by the depth of the experience. I had heard of these people before—names preserved in the History of North Grenville through books and stories—but standing beside their final resting places, reading their biographies on the very ground where they now lay, was something altogether different. It felt personal. It felt real.
For anyone interested in taking their own tour, free booklets are available at the Historical Society Hub.
The rains held off until the end of the tour, at which point the skies opened, giving us all a thorough soaking. Towels were quickly called for so the judges could continue their itinerary later. A light breakfast was provided courtesy of the Municipality and served at the History Hub, providing a warm and welcome break after the morning’s events.
Albert Langstaff was one of most influential business people ever to live and work in the region. Born in Augusta Township, he arrived in Burritt’s Rapids in 1884 to work in the store of T. A Kidd, and for 13 years managed it and the Kidd store in Oxford Mills, marrying Kidd’s daughter, Edith, in that time. In 1897, he moved to Kemptville, where he joined with W. H. Anderson in forming a retail business on Prescott Street. The partners expanded until the business occupied 20,000 square feet of merchandise. In addition to the twelve employees who looked after the customers, the firm also employed another dozen in making clothing for sale. In 1903, the store handled a very wide range of goods: dry goods, groceries, shelf and heavy hardware, shoes, carpets, ready-made and bespoke clothing, furnishings, furs, oils and varnishes, tiles, and much more.
The two men also operated the Dominion Concrete Company, which became a main supplier of concrete pipes and roadways across the province. When Prescott Street in Kemptville was paved, it was with Dominion Concrete materials. The company had a large facility between the High School on Prescott Street and Riverside Park. The company’s stone went into the construction of homes and, in particular, Leslie Hall. In 1919, Langstaff cancelled the debt owing to Dominion Concrete for the construction. When Albert died of a stroke in 1932, he and Edith left a large endowment for St. James. Edith outlived Albert for another 34 years before her death in 1966. The North Grenville Society’s History Hub is located in part of what was the Anderson & Langstaff store.
photo by Talia Hreljac
Lyman Clothier
Yes, We All Belong
by Diane Dewing
North Grenville’s little towns are growing! Highway 43 construction, new housing, new students and new stores are making their mark. This shift has introduced fresh perspectives and enriched the community. Our once homogenous home is changing.
At NG Pride, and at our sibling organization Rainbow Youth Alliance, we see the effect of change every day. Queer partners are retiring here after long careers in cities, youth identify beyond the gender binary, and families embrace the diverse identities of their members. It is safer than ever to present your true self. And yet…
There are still barriers to full inclusion. Gender diverse individuals still report hostility, verbal aggression and micro-aggressions when out with their partners or presenting in a gender nonconforming way. There are still folks resistant to change and who wish for the homogeneity of the past. How do we ensure that the reality of diversity is supported?
One way you can help is to become a member of NG Pride. A $2 membership provides you with a voice, and access, to diverse perspectives. At our Annual General Meeting, Wednesday, August 27, the NG Pride Board will present their 2024-25 report of activities, their financial statement and a proposed budget for the coming year. Members are given time to ask questions, make suggestions, and present their vision regarding the future of NG Pride. This is also the time when we elect our volunteer Board of Directors. These people guide the organization between member meetings.
Pride is more than a parade, or banners downtown. It is a belief that all people should be able to participate fully in their community without fear. Our 2SLGBTQAI+ citizens do not ask for more rights than anyone else, only the same rights.
Please consider becoming a member of NG Pride whether you are a member of our rainbow community or a staunch ally. The world needs you. North Grenville needs you.
Shop, Win, Celebrate Local:
Downtown Kemptville’s Summer Contest Hits All the Right Notes
This summer, something special has been happening in Downtown Kemptville. For the past several weeks, the streets have been buzzing with more than just sunshine and summer shoppers— it’s the excitement of the Shop Local Summer Contest, an initiative designed to reward residents for supporting the businesses that make our downtown so unique.
Running for nine weeks and wrapping up on August 28, the contest has been giving shoppers the chance to win weekly gift baskets worth approximately $400. Each basket is packed with gift cards and products purchased from local businesses, as a way of putting dollars right back into the community. The entire contest has been fully funded by the
Downtown Kemptville BIA, as a thank-you to residents for choosing to shop local.
Entering the contest is easy: just make a purchase at any participating business in the downtown core, fill out a ballot, and you're in. Shop at multiple businesses, and you can enter multiple times—boosting your chances while supporting more of your favourite spots.
Each week’s winner is announced during the Southbranch Serenade, a live music event held every Wednesday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at Rotary Park. With local artists performing beside the water, these concerts have become a community favourite—an ideal setting for enjoying good music, good company, and good news for one
lucky shopper.
More than just a contest, this initiative is about celebrating what makes Downtown Kemptville such a great place to live, visit, and do business. Our local shops and services are the heart of the community, and every purchase—big or small—helps keep that heart beating strong.
As the contest nears its final weeks, there’s still time to take part, support your favourite businesses, and maybe even take home an amazing prize. Whether it’s a coffee, a gift, or a night out, every local purchase makes a difference.
So come downtown, explore what’s here, and enjoy the best of what Kemptville has to offer. Shop local—not just for the contest, but for the community.
Explore and Enjoy along 43
The businesses along County Road 43 are OPEN Open and ready to welcome you with local charm, unique experiences, and plenty of ways to explore and enjoy!
Roadwork is a temporary step toward lasting improvements. Your support today helps create a stronger, more connected community for the future. Visit: www.northgrenville.ca/discover43
Use your head to check on quick health fixes
by Diana Gifford-Jones
There’s no harm in being gullible when the stakes are low, or when you are having fun. Being open to the incredulous is part of being a curious person. And playing along with a friend’s tall tale strengthens your connection while giving you both a good laugh. But in matters of your health, you don’t want to be so open-minded about cureanything remedies that your brains fall out.
Clark Stanley was the self-proclaimed “Rattle Snake King” of the 1880s. He held live demonstrations in which he killed snakes in front of his audiences, then hawked bottles of snake oil with the promise to cure rheumatism, gout, headache, toothache, sore throat, indigestion, frostbite, partial paralysis… and his list goes on. He was finally charged as a fraudster in 1916 and fined a laughable $20. But for decades, a lot of people believed him.
Nowadays, con artists have a lot more tools for trickery, most notably a far
more powerful marketing machinery. But their motive is the same: to get rich at your expense.
So how do you tell if the products and services being offered to you are worth your attention?
First, figure out who is doing the talking and what’s their motivation. Are you dealing with a product promotor, or with a health advocate respected by experts? Does someone credible answer your questions when you ask?
Second, look at the evidence yourself. If a product is back by a single study with a dozen participants or if a company doesn’t have any independent research to back their product claims, then be extra cautious.
Third, think about whether the product makes biological sense. If a product claims to detox your body, ask what toxins it removes, where they go, and how it’s different from the work your liver and kidneys already do all day long for free.
The intent here is not to
suggest you need to scrutinize ever detail of the health remedies on the market. That’s what food and drug regulatory bodies do. Rather, just run your purchases through a mental sieve. If a product fails on points one, two or three, then pause. You need to do more investigation before spending your money.
But here’s another thing. Don’t fall victim to the opposite problem. There are plenty of doctor-approved drugs, also prominently okayed by top health regulatory authorities, that may be effective. But they may not be the right choice. Why? Because there is a natural alternative that does the same job, but without the side-effects of pharmaceutical products. A perfect example is mild insomnia. Many people reach for prescription sleeping pills (like zolpidem/Ambien) or overthe-counter sedatives (like diphenhydramine/ Benadryl) to “knock themselves out,” when research shows non-drug approaches can work better, last longer, and
Sip, don’t spill: Smart water habits for summer
from the Municipality of North Grenville Summer typically means higher water use, especially outdoors. Here are smart summer water conservation tips to help you stay efficient during the hottest months.
For the Home:
• Take shorter showers –Aim for 5 minutes or less to save gallons per day.
• Run appliances in the early morning or evening – reduces strain on water systems and energy use.
• Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge –Avoid running the tap until it cools.
• Close pool covers when not in use –Prevents evaporation and reduces the need for refilling.
• Only wash cars when necessary –Use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose.
For the Yard/Garden:
• Water deeply, less frequently –Promotes strong root growth and minimizes evaporation.
• Water in the early morning or late evening – cooler temps mean less water loss.
• Use mulch around plants –Helps soil retain moisture and prevents weeds.
• Choose native or drought-tolerant plants –They require far less water to thrive.
• Raise your lawn mower blade –Taller grass shades soil, reducing water loss. Go Above and Beyond:
• Collect rainwater –Use it for watering plants or washing outdoor areas.
• Inspect outdoor taps and hoses for leaks –A small leak can waste hundreds of liters of water.
• Use a broom for patios and sidewalks –Skip the hose and save water
avoid side effects.
Another example is chronic lower back pain. How grateful we are for ibuprofen or other painkilling pills to ease the pain. Yet, strengthening core muscles and working on improved flexibility may resolve the problem, and the daily exercise will have so many other benefits for general health too. The truth is, there are plenty of genuine health remedies that aren’t glamorous. They’re the boring, unprofitable things like moving your body daily, eating a variety of foods, sleeping enough, and building strong social connections. No influencer gets rich from telling you to take a walk with a friend.
The key to all this? Your own thoughtfulness. Next time you see a health claim that sounds too good to be true, think of the snake oil salesman. The packaging has changed. Human gullibility hasn’t.
Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive my weekly e-newsletter. For comments, diana@docgiff.
6,
- August 22,
My tears still fall silently, my heart still grieves quietly... but thankfully God hears my sorrow and graciously grants me the gift of memories, which I will always treasure. Your Angela
On the subject of cheesecakes, making squares with them also work great, particularly if you match it with chocolate. By the way, in the Daiquiri Cheesecake recipe of last week, a typo entered the fray; kindly remove the flour from the ingredients list. So, today, let’s try some Chocolate Cheesecake Squares (with no flour). They are easy to make and a real treat.
Chocolate Cheesecake Squares
Ingredients:
• ½ cup of butter
• 30 chocolate wafers, made into 1 ½ cup of crumbs (just use a rolling pin)
• ¾ cup of chopped walnuts
• 3 ounces of cream cheese
• ½ cup of white granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup of cocoa
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla
Preparation:
• Preheat your oven to 350C
• Melt the butter in a 9 inch baking pan on medium heat
• Stir in the wafer crumbs and the nuts
• Pat the mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan
• In a separate bowl, mix the cheese, sugar, cocoa, ½ cup nuts, the egg and vanilla
• Pour over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup nuts over the top
• Bake for 20 minutes, then cool and refrigerate right in the pan
• Cut into squares for serving
This recipe works great as a dessert for those outdoor BBQs when it’s time for laying off the beer and having a coffee.
Thanks for the feedback and keep it coming at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
August 23
Harvest Days Demonstrations Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Admission: $5 per person Children: 12 & under FREE Silent Auction Sat. and Sun.
Working Demonstrations 10am-4pm BOTH DAYS
BBQ Chicken Dinner, Saturday August 23 Pickup starting at 4:00 pm $23 - advance sales only Contact Brent Christie - 613-802-0369
Entertainment - Hillbilly Highway Saturday August 2310am - 3pm
Old Time Farmer's Breakfast Sunday August 24 - 8am - 11am
Adult: $12.50 Children: 12 & under $6 CASH ONLY 5877 County Road 18 Roebuck ON Kids Fishing Derby Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Hosted by the Seaway Optimist Club Free event - Kids ages 15 years & younger For more information call Larry at 613-340-3833 https://www.facebook.com/people/The-New-Seaway-Optimist-Club/61558571758720/?_rdr. At The Cardinal Legion
August 27
Music Trivia Time: 6:45 am
Proceeds from this event will support the ongoing operations and programs at the Musical Instrument Lending Library. Advance tickets only. $25 per person. Ticket sales will close 3:00pm, Wednesday, August 27. Boathouse Café, 646 River Road.
September 11-14
170th Spencerville Fair. Come Home to Your Fair! Spencerville Fairgrounds 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville, Ontario
September 14
Wizard Card Tournament Time: 12:30 pm
Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com. At Pierce's Corners, 3048 Pierce Road
Cowbird
A Hot Summers Day
With all the hot weather, the birds have been having to take in more fluids , as we ourselves are, especially when eating some of the dry food. With water being the main source for them, I managed to capture a picture of a Grackle with some food in its beak soaking it in the water bath, before he carried on eating it. It spent a little bit of time before it completed this task and at times was wading quite deeply in the water to retrieve the food. How soft the food got I can only guess, but it was probably not far off being as dry as it started, since the seed was quite hard and dry. Anyway, the thought was there and the Grackle seemed satisfied!
Other birds have taken to cooling off in the same drinking water, as those who only desire to quench their thirsts. Nobody seems to mind and no squabbles, or aggressive behaviour develops, because of these different requirements, despite all using the same water. Mind you, some of the more enthusiastic bathers, like the Robins, tend not to leave without having depleted the water level by a considerable amount, but what can the other birds do, aside from just putting up with it? Such is life!
By the time you get to read this article the summer will be halfway through and many of the birds will have stopped their nesting activities, unless they have gone on to creating a second brood of offspring. Most of them don’t, but some do, so there are still opportunities to see this activity going on once more before the season ceases, so keep your eyes open and you may see it for yourself. Whatever you do see, enjoy.
Stay safe and well,
Cheers, John Baldwin
September 28
Birds of Prey Time: 10:00 am
The big show returns! Always a thrilling event with several different raptors from eagles to owls to who knows what else. Three shows at 10:00, 12:00 and 2:00 in the Arboretum. Additional informationwebsite: www.friendsofthefergusonforest.com
At The Ferguson Forest Centre Arboretum, 241 Honour Way, Kemptville, ON
Gravitate Travel: TRAVEL TALK
September 27
In partnership with Celebrity Cruises and Transat All-Inclusive Vacations, at 11:15 am for an exclusive insider look.
Visit https://gravitate.travel/events-list/ for more details and tickets!
October 1
In partnership with Adventure Canada and Globus/ Avalon Waterways
You spoke; we listened! At 6:15 pm for our very first weekday evening event
Visit https://gravitate.travel/events-list/ for more details and tickets!
RECURRING EVENTS
Knights of Columbus Monthly Supper at Holy Cross Church Hall 503 Clothier Street West. Suppers are held at 5:30 p.m. on the last Thursday of each month, September to November and January to May. Cost $10 per person, $5 for a child under 12 and $25 for a family.
PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@ gmail.com
Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome
BINGO, Kemptville Legion, Bingos run from the beginning of September until the end of June on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
LEGION EUCHRE will be held at 100 Reuben St., the 3rd Saturday of each month. Registration starts at 12:30, with Euchre starting at 1:00. Cost is $5 to play - cash prizes. NG Duplicate Bridge Club Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptivlle, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613795-7155
Friendship Lunches are offered to everyone every Friday. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship and fellowship at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.
Friendship Café is open to the community Tuesday's from 10 to noon. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a hot beverage, a sweet treat and some friendly conversation all at no cost. At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. Tuesday Community Hub hosted by the House of Lazarus All are welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, community services assistance are just a few of the weekly programs. Stop by and visit or contact House of Lazarus directly at 613-989-3830 for more details. “Building Community, Sharing Hope”. Upstairs at St. John's United Church at 400 Prescott St. Modern Square Dancing in Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:309:30pm. North Grenville Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Debbie at 613-795-3032 or Google "Kemptville Square Dancing"
Saturday Art Social every Saturday morning at the NG Public Library! 10 am - 11:30 am at the NG Public Library. Free with basic materials provided
BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, August 26, September 9 and 23. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ ymail.com
EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, September 2, 16 and 30. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com
North Grenville Men’s Shed
A men’s shed provides a safe and friendly environment for men to socialize and/or do projects.
Contact: Peter Ivay 343 598-1174 or website ngmensshed. com for scheduled meetings on the calendar and additional information.
Malala Women’s Choir
Invites you to explore uplifting music for treble voices. Rehearsals: Wednesday evenings 7:00 – 9:00 pm, March 5– May 28, 2025. At St. Andrew’s Knox Presbyterian Church, 23 Bennett St., Spencerville. To register: contact Sheila at 613-658-5290 or sheilafawcett92@gmail.com
No previous choral experience required.
Membership fee: $35
Kemptville Horticultural Society - meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. The are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church.
South Branch Serenade FREE Event Every Thursday Night Throughout July and August. 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Rotary Park in Downtown Kemptville
Kemptville Street Piano Join us on Saturdays for FREE musical adventures. 1:00 pm
North Grenville Public Library terrace
CLASSIFIEDS
HELP WANTED
OASIS PAINTING
SPACE NEEDED
Looking to rent classroom space that would accommodate 10 to 20 students at a time in the North Grenville area on a semi frequent basis, preferably with chairs and tables, however this is not an absolute requirement. Also, would require use of washroom facilities.
Please contact Kevin at Hrtandd@gmail.com
Book Fair wraps up another year
by Talia Hreljac
There’s something special about a well-loved book finding a new home; and something even more special when that book helps support local youth. That’s exactly what happened again this year at the Kemptville Youth Book Fair, a much-anticipated annual event that brings together neighbours, volunteers, and book lovers for a great cause.
Held over three days at the Ferguson Forest Centre, the sale offered hundreds of gently used books, all donated by generous members of the community. Whether you were searching for a childhood classic, a new mystery to dive into, or just browsing for something unexpected, there was something for everyone.
More importantly, every book sold helped raise funds for the Kemptville Youth Centre (KYC), a place that’s been making a difference in the lives of local youth for over 31 years. Thanks to the event’s generous sponsor, Scotiabank, 100% of the proceeds from the sale go straight to supporting programs, resources, and everyday needs at the centre.
The KYC isn’t just a building, it’s a safe space, a second home, and a place where young people are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to grow. As a
FOR SALE
Franklin Mint Collection Car size 3 7/8
"L dazzling die cast cars of the '50s and '60s with a display shelfs in Pristine condition.Best offer.613-258-0445. Leave a message.
Heavy-duty disposable incontinence pads; heavy duty washable incontinence pads; nightgowns open back with ties for men; urinal never used/O-ring /doughnut pad. Call #613 258 0445
Firewood for camping @ $60.00/cord. Call Reg 613 258 7606
We sell and install cedar trees for hedges and we are also looking to harvest cedar trees for cedar hedges from land owner(s). Joanne (613)799-0958
non-profit, their mission is all about creating real opportunities and strong mentorship for youth in our community; and events like the book sale help make that possible.
Of course, none of it could happen without the many wonderful volunteers who come together each year to sort, set up, and support the event from start to finish. Their hard work and warm smiles are a huge part of what makes the sale such a success, and such a joy to attend.
This year, a total of $21,000 was raised in book sales alone, an amazing figure, while another $617 was received from sales of youth-made book markers. Other numbers: $1,330 in donations, $600 from 50/50 sales, and $3,000 from sponships. This gives a grand total this year of $26,000. Congratulations to all involved.
While the dollars make a difference, it’s really about what those dollars make possible: more programs, more support, and more moments that matter for local youth.
In the end, the Kemptville Youth Book Sale is about so much more than books. It’s about a community that shows up, gives generously, and believes in its young people. And that’s something worth celebrating year after year.
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Vomit
5. Dwarf buffalo
9. Mother
13. Egg-shaped
14. Explosive devices
16. Anagram of "Bone"
17. Fizzy drink
18. Break into pieces
19. Gait faster than a walk
20. Filch
22. Polishing shoes
24. Iridescent gem
26. Sporting venue
27. Photograph devices
30. Part of a tree
33. Distaste
35. Danger
37. Encountered
38. Scold
TO RENT
Winchester For RENT, suite, private bath, private entrance, all inclusive. For accommodation or small business. Luxury setting. $1200/ month. christinefripp@ gmail.com
LAND FOR RENT to farm. High producing for soy bean and corn. Reasonable to the right farmer. Call 613.258.3561
GARAGE SALES
Moving sale Aug 22 and 23 from 8 to 2 at 755 Cty Rd 44. Garage is restocked.
WANTED
Clean, dry garage for senior, transitioning to a smaller living. Need a safe place to store clean furniture for a reasonable rate.Rental short term 3mths approx. Kemptville .Call 613-258-0445.Leave a message.
41. East northeast
42. Made a mistake
45. Home for a house
parrot
48. Despot
51. More significant
52. Illicit sexual relationship
54. Indian dress
55. Music genre
59. Adored
62. In place of
63. Where clouds are
65. Ocean motion
66. Fragrance
67. Affirmatives
68. Any thing
69. Pitch
70. Exam
71. Physics unit DOWN
1. Supervisor
2. Affirm
3. The measurement of radiation
4. Charleston dancer
5. Stomach muscles, for short
6. French for "Names"
7. A city in Nebraska
8. Soak up
9. Marsh gas
10. Dugout shelter
11. Natural satellite
12. Initial wager
15. Absolute
21. Hearing organs
23. Break in two
25. Nonclerical
27. Arrived
28. Forestall
29. Between FAH and LAH
31. Ability to imagine
32. Door pivot
34. Bird's beak
36. Lascivious look
39. Excavate
40. Makes a mistake
43. Expunction
44. River barriers
46. Bargain
47. Neck artery
49. Clamorous
50. Fanfare
53. Lift
55. Coagulate
56. Adriatic resort
57. Long, long time
58. Dregs
60. Anagram of "Need"
61. Greek district
64. Supersonic transport
Who knows where the Times goes?
To celebrate our twenty years of news in North Grenville, the Times is inviting readers to submit photos of them reading the paper wherever in the world they may be. You may be on vacation in Europe, Or you may be visiting friends somewhere in Canada. Who knows where the Times goes? At the end of the summer we’ll have a draw to find the winning pic, and present a gift coupon from $100 for a local NG business. It’s a fun way to mark a big anniversary for us here at the Times: one we want to share with our friends and neighbours in our community.
Talia’s Take The last first day: when your baby starts Kindergarten
To the mamas who have their last baby starting school this year: I see you, I hear you, I am you. I’ve heard people talk about how the first baby going off to school is the hardest, but honestly, that wasn’t the case for me. My oldest daughter was ready, I was ready. And then COVID hit, and I found myself trying to teach a 4-year-old lefty how to use scissors. At one point, I considered giving up hope and just telling her to marry rich; but then I thought, mmm, maybe that’s not the best parenting advice. I will say: thank God I wasn’t home schooling during grade 5 when they do long division, or she would have ended up dumb - but I digress.
Back to the point of this story: my oldest and middle child were ready for school and excited. I was also prepared, because I didn’t just see them as my little babies. I had my actual little baby in my arms. I saw them as
tiny humans ready to take on the world.
Then there’s my son. My mama’s boy. I’m sure he’ll be fine in school, and when I saw him with the other kids at the kindergarten open house, I realized he’s just like them. He acts like them, has the same difficulties, and, more importantly, the same excitement. He’s going to be okay.
Honestly, I’m the one who’s going to be crying the most on the first day of school. But I am so thankful for the wonderful teachers and administrators at my kids’ school, who have always been so lovely, even when I was a crazy, overprotective mama bear.
Here are some tips to help make things easier:
1. Don’t buy the tiny cute backpack. You know the one, it’s the same size as them. It doesn’t hold anything. Get a bag big enough to fit a full lunch bag, water bottle, and an extra set of clothes and underwear.
2. Teach them indepen-
dence. This is something I struggle with. As the third kid, he also gets treated like a little prince. There are four people at home ready to help him, but we’re all trying to step back and let him do things on his own, much to his highness’s displeasure. We’re encouraging him to put on his own shoes and coat, and to open his own lunch box, all things that take a teacher with 30 kids in a class forever to do.
(COMMUNITYWIRE)-- CUPE Local 1328, which represents over 2,000 education workers across the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), is urgently calling for the board to hire hundreds more education workers following a damning Global News investigation revealing a 77% rise in violent incidents in Ontario schools since the Ford government came to power.
Sharron Flynn, President of CUPE 1328, says that education workers at the TCDSB are experiencing physical violence every single day, including biting, scratching, hair-pulling, and serious injuries because students are not given the supports that they need.
“Our local receives pictures of puncture wounds and ripped-out hair. Members are saying that if they only get hit two or three times in a day, it’s considered a good day. Violent incidents are so frequent that many workers have stopped reporting them,”
Flynn said. “We need hundreds more education workers hired just to get back to a safe baseline. And yet, members are being told that being hurt is ‘part of the job.’ No one should go to work and get hurt. It’s not accepted in any other profession — why is it the norm in education?”
CUPE 1328 launched a petition earlier this year demanding that the TCDSB take immediate action to address the violence crisis in schools. A majority of the membership signed the petition, demanding the TCDSB implement a real plan and real investment to keep workers and students safe.
“We need to be way more proactive instead of reactive,” said Flynn. “They’ve cut funding for pre-emptive services. I worked as a Child and Youth Worker, and we used to intervene before situations became dangerous. That doesn’t exist anymore. Students are left without supports, and our members are left to put out
4. Show yourself grace. I’m giving myself kindness and compassion. This is truly the end of an era in my parenting journey. I officially have no more babies, and that’s hard. I loved being a mom to babies, and, quite frankly, I miss the sleepdeprived nights compared to the pre-teen hormones, because, honestly, my older girls scare me.
So as I hold my youngest and read Love You Forever by Robert Munsch (because I’m a sadist who enjoys emotionally torturing myself), I’ll remind myself to be brave. This is also a very exciting time in my life. I get to find myself again, and I’m curious to see what adventures lie ahead.
At least until 3 p.m., when I pick up my three little hearts and hear all about their days.
3. Get everything ready ahead of time. I made him a big shirt that says “Class of 2039” (ask me how many times I calculated that, and it still might be wrong). Each year, I write on the back what he wants to be. My daughter said she wanted to be a mermaid in JK, and I love that memory. I get the little first day of school sign ready (reminder: do not post what school your kid goes to on the internet for safety reasons). I also prep a first day of school breakfast with fun decorations. It may be for the kids, but let’s be honest, it’s for me too.
‘A good day is only getting hit three times’
fire after fire.”
A province-wide survey released earlier this year, conducted by the Ontario School Board Council of Unions (OSBCU), paints a disturbing picture of the daily realities faced by education workers at the TCDSB. Among CUPE 1328 members who responded, 73% reported experiencing violent or disruptive incidents in their work. The situation is even more alarming for Educational Assistants and Child and Youth Workers: 94% reported violent or disruptive incidents occurring, with 46% stating they occur daily.
These statistics are not just numbers: they represent a school environment where both student learn-
ing and staff safety are consistently compromised.
“This government’s refusal to fund adequate supports is putting students and workers in harm’s way,” said Joe Tigani, President of the OSBCU. “These are not isolated incidents, they are the direct result of chronic underfunding and understaffing. Education workers are at a breaking point and students are suffering.”
CUPE 1328 is demanding urgent investment in hiring hundreds of additional frontline education workers to ensure every student has access to the supports they need and every worker can go to work without fear of violence.
We just visited Europe and brought the NG Times with us! Shown are Kathy and Charlotte Dickenson, in front of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Campaign Chair named by United Way Leeds & Grenville
United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) is proud to announce that Darren Gallacher has been appointed as the 2025 Campaign Cabinet Chair, continuing his outstanding commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community across Leeds & Grenville.
A long-time supporter and advocate for community driven change, Darren has previously been recognized by UWLG for his volunteerism and dedication. He brings not only leadership experience, but a passion for collaboration and impact.
“Together, we have the power to uplift and strengthen the communities where we work and live,” says Darren. “As Chair of the UWLG Cabinet, I’m honored to unite our efforts and turn our community’s generosity into lasting impact.”
The Campaign Cabinet plays a vital role in United Way’s annual fundraising efforts. As a volunteer leadership team, the Cabinet works closely with community leaders, workplaces, and donors to drive engagement, raise awareness, and secure critical funds that support more than 20 local programs and services. These programs address issues such as food insecurity, youth mental health, education, housing and more.
Joining Darren on the 2025 Cabinet: Ian McFall, Past Chair, Marilies Rettig and Pamela Robertson. Together, this dedicated team will lead the “Hope Starts With You” campaign for 2025, an initiative that emphasizes the power of individual and collective action to create meaningful, lasting change.
“We are thrilled to have Darren lead this year’s campaign,” says Hailie Jack, Executive Director of United Way Leeds & Grenville. “His leadership, generosity, and belief in community align perfectly with our mission, and we know this year’s campaign will be stronger because of it.”
For more information about the campaign, or to get involved in our 2025 cabinet, visit www.uwlg. org.
United Way Leeds & Grenville is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addiction, children and youth support. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive.
It’s Roundabout Time!
intro by Marguerite Boyer
We now have six roundabouts in North Grenville. I love them, but only if used properly. It just irks me when drivers don’t use their signal when in them. I am sure many of you feel the same. So here are the instructions (once again) on how to use them properly. Please take the time to read this, and ensure traffic can move smoothly and safely through them.
Roundabouts are circular intersections where two or more roads meet. Traffic circulates through roundabouts counter-clockwise around a central island. Most importantly, studies show that roundabouts have fewer conflict points, which can lower the chances for serious accidents. They prevent costly accidents and injuries, which should help with lower car insurance in Ontario.
How to use a roundabout in Ontario
When you approach a roundabout, here is what you should do :
Slow down and prepare to yield to any pedestrians, cyclists and cars.
Observe for signs that will direct you to your exit. Stop if there are vehicles inside the roundabout. Use the correct lane for your exit. Enter when there is a safe gap in the roundabout. Avoid changing lanes in a roundabout, and do not stop (unless you are avoiding a collision).
Use your right turn signal as you prepare to exit.
What lane do I choose in a roundabout?
Once you have decided what exit to take, here are some tips on which lane to drive in.
Turning Right : If you are making the first exit, enter from the right lane. Have your right signal on. Travel in the outer lane of the roundabout and exit directly from the lane.
Going Straight : If you are driving straight through the roundabout, enter from the left or right lane. Exit directly from that lane when you get to the exit.
Turning Left : If you are turning left (making the last exit on the roundabout), enter the left lane. Continue to travel in the inner lane of the roundabout and exit directly from the inner lane. How safe are roundabouts?
Roundabouts are safer than traditional stoplight intersections. Studies show that there are approximately 32 conflict points at an intersection versus eight in a roundabout. The study in 2000 found that roundabouts reduced the number of collisions by 35%, lowered the number of injuries by 76%, and fatalities by 90%.
The chance of serious injury decreases with roundabouts. Since cars are driving slower, drivers have more time to react. When accidents do happen, they are minor compared to traffic light intersections.
The central island is designed to prevent drivers from seeing the headlights of oncoming vehicles at night. It also gives drivers an indication that there is an obstruction in the roadway and that they can’t drive straight through. How do roundabouts work?
Tips for driving safely through a roundabout
Feel confident the next time you approach a roundabout with these tips.
As you approach the roundabout, note the sign indicating which lane you need to take for each exit.
Always look for oncoming traffic, pedestrians and cyclists who you will yield to.
Drivers and cyclists who are already using the roundabout have the right-of-way. Vehicles entering the roundabout must always yield and wait for a safe gap to enter. Only enter the roundabout when all lanes of oncoming traffic are clear. Stay in your lane once you’ve entered.
Use your signal to indicate you are leaving the roundabout.
Do I yield to emergency vehicles in a roundabout?
If you are driving in a roundabout and an emergency vehicle approaches, exit at your intended exit and proceed beyond the traffic island before pulling over. If you haven’t entered the roundabout, pull over to the right and wait until the emergency vehicle has passed before entering.
Do I need to signal in a roundabout?
Roundabouts are similar to intersections. You should always signal in the direction you plan on taking. Here are some directional tips for signalling in a roundabout.
If you are turning right, leave your right signal on.
If you are taking the second exit, use your signal when approaching the exit.
If you are taking the third exit, leave your left signal on until your exit arrives and then use your right signal.