Issue 35 2023 September 07 NG Times

Steve Clark resigns from Cabinet

could "leave it with me", still concluded that "Mr. Amato's communications to developers must be attributed to Mr. Clark because I find he failed to oversee an important initiative in his ministry which led to some developers being alerted to a potential change in the government's position on the Greenbelt with the result that their private interests were furthered improperly" [Report Paras 574-575]. These private interests are said to have potentially benefitted to the amount of more than $8 billion.

by David Shanahan

In the wake of two official reports which found he had failed in his responsibilities as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Steve Clark announced his resignation from that office on Monday. In his letter to Premier Ford, and in a statement issued on social media, he said:

“As someone who has given my life to serving the people through our democratic institutions, it is my responsibility to adhere to the principles of Ministerial accountability.

I will continue to serve my constituents as the MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes.”

This sudden and dramatic downturn in Steve Clark's political career has

come as a genuine surprise to many of this constituents. Known over many years as an honest, articulate, and honourable man who represented his riding with efficiency and integrity, the conclusions of two reports, by the Auditor General and the Ontario Integrity Commissioner, has left his reputation severely damaged and his future political prospects more uncertain after his resignation.

It has to be said that, at this stage, that there is no suggestion that Steve Clark, as Minister for Municipal Affairs and Housing, did anything illegal, with the focus centering on his exChief of Staff, Ryan Amato. As a Minister, the Integrity Commissioner's Report found that Clark contravened sections of the Mem-

bers' Integrity Act, 1994 "by failing to oversee the process by which lands in the Greenbelt were selected for development, leading to the private interests of certain developers being furthered improperly".

By not supervising Amato, who, working closely with developers, chose 14 of the 15 tracts of land to be released from Greenbelt restrictions on development, Clark facilitated a process that has raised serious questions. The two Reports strongly rebuked him for this failure to do his job as Minister, and the Integrity Commissioner, while noting that he believed the Minister's claims "that he chose to absent himself from directing this file or receiving information on it" after Amato told him he

The Commissioner's conclusions are best summed up in this section: "It may seem incredible that Minister Clark would have chosen to stick his head in the sand on such an important initiative being undertaken by his ministry but I believe that was exactly what he did".

[Para 251] Those who have known Steve Clark over the years will be surprised, to say the least, at this "head in the sand" attitude on his part, but the Report also provides a possible motive.

Steve Clark, as M.P.P., had always been opposed to using Greenbelt lands for private development, and the sudden u-turn by the Ford Government on the issue after the last election caused him real concerns.

The Commissioner's Report noted: "Minister Clark did

Photo of happier days: Steve Clark sworn into the Ford Cabinet by Ontario Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell in June, 2018

not appear ‘keen to be doing this project’, Minister Clark acknowledged that he was ‘not in a very happy mood.’ He explained ‘given the fact I was making the decision which was counter to some of the decisions I had made in the first term. And so it's a tough decision.’" [Para 246]

Rather than resign on principle, Steve Clark was happy to let his Chief of Staff handle the unpleasant job of choosing which Greenbelt properties would be released for development. This was an unethical refusal to accept his responsibility as Minister of Housing. Given that he was basically opposed to the Greenbelt initiative, but that he was the Minister with the job of implementing his government's policy on

it, perhaps stepping down would have been better than stepping aside.

His decision to resign now may not be the end of this controversy. The Premier has not changed his mind about releasing those 15 tracts of land to development, in spite of the questionable way in which they were identified. More housing is, in the government’s opinion, worth the $8 billion profit made by a few developers. The irony is that the government’s own studies have shown that the Greenbelt properties are not needed in order to reach the housing targets for which Ford and Clark were pushing.

The Integrity Commissioner had recommended

that Steve Clark be reprimanded by the Legislature as: “I acknowledge that Minister Clark has never before been the subject of an inquiry under the Act”, and that “this recommendation would be a sufficient penalty to be imposed at this time”. It is unclear, as yet, whether that reprimand will be needed now that the Minister has resigned. It is equally unclear what effect the entire episode will have on Steve Clark’s future career as an M.P.P.. In addition, there had already been strong rumours that this would have been his last term in the Legislature, as he was apparently thinking of retiring from politics at the next election. This latest development may add to that calculation..

ParticipACTION funds outdoor equipment for Lending Library

The North Grenville Public Library is excited to announce the addition of new outdoor equipment available for loan. Thanks to the 2022 ParticipACTION prize money, the Library has been able to purchase Bocce ball sets, pickleball sets, tennis rackets and balls, KanJam kits, and even a metal detector.

The Municipality of North Grenville has won the ParticipACTION Community Challenge three years in a row, earning significant prize money each year. The prize money is used to establish more outdoor recreational opportunities in North Grenville.

“We are thrilled to partner with the North Grenville Public Library and build on the existing recreation lending library which is available to any resident of North Grenville with a library card. The goal is to give residents the chance to try out new sports and activities without having to make immediate large financial investments in equipment,” highlighted Mayor Nancy Peckford.

Having this equipment at the Library makes it easy

to borrow, giving residents the opportunity to try out a sport they may not have ever tried before, and to borrow the equipment again if they love it. Other great equipment the Library already has on loan includes disc golf sets, geocaching kits, walking poles, fishing poles, and Mapsack outdoor activity kits for the kids.

“Sharing outdoor equipment communally is also a great way to ensure that everyone has access to it, including those who would not be able to purchase it on their own or perhaps just need it once a year,” added Rachel Brown, CEO for the North Grenville Public Library.

All of the new equipment was purchased and is available through our friendly Kemptville Canadian Tire store. We hope to add snowshoes to the collection before the first snow falls. (Oops, we said the "s" word!). Come by and check it out.

For more information on the NGPL Lending Library, visit: https://ngpl.ca/ outdoor-and-sports-equipment.

The ParticipACTION

Community Challenge is an annual event that encourages Canadians of all ages and abilities to get active. Municipalities compete for the provincial and national Most Active titles by tracking all active minutes for the month of June. Participants track their physical activity minutes on the Participaction App or website.

In 2021, North Grenville was crowned Canada’s Most Active Community, after logging over 9 Million Minutes and beating out larger communities. In addition to the title, it also came with $100,000 in prize money.

After consulting with the community, Council decided the money would be used to expand recreational opportunities in the rural hamlets, including, a new play structure at Crozier Park, Oxford Mills and at Oxford Station Park, a new rink house at Bishop Mills Park, and an upgraded basketball court behind the Burritts Rapids Community Centre. In addition, a portion of the funds were used to support the establishment of a re-built BMX pump track at Riverside Park.

In 2022 and 2023, North Grenville held its title as Ontario’s Most Active Community, earning $7,500 in prize money for each year. The prize money received will go towards expanding North Grenville’s outdoor recreational opportunities.

For more information, visit www.northgrenville. ca/GetActive.

Council, NG Recreation Coordinator Tammy Hurlburt, and NGPL staff show some of the equipment available at the Lending Library.

Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

NGCT to perform "Hobson's Choice"

by Darrell Nunn

Once again, North Grenville Community Theatre (NGCT), formerly Kemptville Players, is eagerly rehearsing a play that we hope will tickle your funny bone. We hope it makes you laugh out loud.

Mix together:

- a stubborn, old-fashioned father.

- three independent-minded strong willed daughters.

- three pliant potential husbands.

- a family business with mixed priorities, and - wedding negotiations

-to get a timeless comedy of irresistible forces and immovable objects (characters).

The comedy is called "Hobson's Choice." In this comedy, Hobson is the father, but idiomatically, a 'Hobson's Choice' means no choice at all. What choice WON'T Hobson have?

The play will take place from Thursday, September 28 to Sunday, October 1 at Parish Hall on the Kemptville Campus: Thursday to Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 1 pm.

We are excited to be going back to this beautiful auditorium in which we used to perform a long time ago. It has a sloped floor with comfortable well-padded seats right to the stage. The acoustics are excellent. There is plenty of nearby parking.

As an added bonus, on the Sunday, there a brunch will be available, catered by Catered Affairs in their attractive dining setting four minutes' walk from Parish Hall. Their food is excellent. At the brunch, costumed cast members will be interacting with you in a spontaneous manner that will hint at/tease out some of the comedic themes of the play - an interactive luncheon for your taste buds and your sense of humour. Tickets for the luncheon and play combination will be available on a first come first served basis.

For the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7 pm performances, refreshments will be available served by friendly faces in appropriate period costumes. We believe that live theatre is a unique, immersive experience. The actors look forward to lively audiences who will express their reactions - of whatever sort - audibly. Because of the combination of stage lighting and a dark auditorium, performers cannot easily see the audience. But we really hope that we will entertain you enough to HEAR you!

Between actors, director, producer, set designers and builders, publicity, front of house staff, it 'takes a village' to produce a play. My thanks to the many, many volunteers who help to make our performances a reality.

by David Shanahan

Editor Brandon is currently vacationing Brandon, so I have been allowed back for this issue, with appropriate warnings to behave myself. With that in mind, let me ask you: hasn’t the world gone completely insane? Tornadoes hitting Ottawa, high temperatures everywhere, wildfires in Quebec spreading smoke as far away as New York City, wildfires above the Arctic Circle! Glaciers melting and exposing long-lost corpses and sunken ships, and dire warnings for the future of the planet. Think about it: the eight hottest years on record all occurring since 2015, eight years ago. The hottest year was 2016. The ten hottest years on record have occurred since 2010.

And still we have the naysayers, the ones who are convinced that climate change is a hoax, the word used by US Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy during the

first GOP presidential primary debate. He said, and I have to quote him or you may not believe me, “The climate change agenda is a hoax � The reality is more people are dying of bad climate change policies than they are of actual climate change.” No doubt he believes that COVID was a hoax too, as so many still claim in spite of the millions of deaths worldwide. Who is staging these hoaxes, and why? What is being gained?

I always come back to one question when it comes to the many and increasingly common conspiracy theories going around: why do people believe a few online posters instead of the vast majority of people who know something about the subject? Why do we want to believe in deep states and Illuminati and DaVinci Codes? This is not to say that I think “experts” are always to be believed, or that there isn’t often a time gap between what experts know and

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor, Stray Cats

Well, there are good people around who care and are connected. Ferguson Street has had many stray cats for many years. A few weeks ago, a caring neighbour, Judy, connected with Ottawa Stray Cats Organization staff member Katie and captured five cats with live traps overnight and during the day. The cats regularly gather at the south corner of Holmes and Ferguson Street where the strays usually feast on garbage and composting materials. Ottawa Stray Cats then neuter or spay the cats and re-home them, if possible, or relocate them. There were four kittens and presumably one mother. Many neighbours had called the Municipality to ask what could or should be done, and the reply was that cats are not an issue to the Municipality and to

what the public believes at times. And it is always salutary to remember that the experts used to assure us that allowing leeches to drain blood from sick people was the way to cure them, or that smoking was good for our health.

We do tend to believe what we want to, regardless of the evidence for or against the thing believed. We like to be tolerant of ideas, to the extent of accepting the completely false notion that “all religions are the same and teach basically the same thing”, or that “people are basically good”, in spite of the facts of history demonstrating that we really aren’t, given the opportunity to behave without restrictions.

Now, people will disagree with both of those statements, which is perfectly ok, as long as there are reasons for doing so, other than an automatic denial based on finding them disagreeable. So how do we find our way in this

confused and confusing world? Our problem is exacerbated by the gradual development over the past couple of centuries of the idea that there are no absolutes: no ultimate standards applicable to all. Relativism, “doing your own thing”, “what is true for you isn’t necessarily true for me”, all have had their effect on how we judge things now. And yet, at the same time, 1+1 still equals 2, oxygen is essential for breathing, everyone dies at some point, and you can’t walk through a solid wall. Basic facts we all accept, so why the vagueness about what should be clear in other areas?

The fact is that we, as the human race, is losing its way, losing its battle to save the planet and ourselves, losing faith in each other, and losing any sense of shame. By shame, I mean the growing willingness of people, like politicians for example, to openly lie, knowing it’s a lie, knowing that we know it’s a lie,

so as not to alienate their supporters. How did we get to this? It wasn’t just Trump, though his arrival on the scene has certainly accelerated the process. We accept this behaviour, we accept that people can believe completely contradictory things and never think it’s odd to do so. It is as though we are being slowly brainwashed, gradually coming to believe impossible things to be normal, opposite things to be complementary. We believe that all points of view are equally valid, no matter how much they conflict with each other, or with reality. What’s happening here?

Socrates, a very wise man indeed, said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” That is a warning to our times. We are accepting too much without examining it. We are living our lives without thinking about what we believe, what we do, and why we do it. People may counter that we have no right to judge

Is NG a foodie wasteland?

try a rescue organization. I recall Cornwall had to do a major action campaign as a result of hundreds of stray cats. Anyone can donate to the Ottawa Stray Cats organization easily by e-mail: rescue@oscatr.ca.

Thank you, Judy and Katie, Lynne FergusonBourguignon

by David Shanahan

The United Counties of Lee ds and Grenville (CLG) have launched what they are calling “Foodie Shop Adventures”, a tour of “unique food shops featuring local delights and exciting imports, guaranteed to satisfy every foodie's adventurous palette”. The map accompanying the tour guide shows the location of these shops in the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways region, which “feature local delights and exciting imports that will leave you craving more”.

This all sounds very exciting indeed, and I was keen to see which stores in North Grenville would be part of this imaginative tour. There were none! As far as the United Counties are concerned, North Grenville is a foodie wasteland, with not a single store worthy

of inclusion in their list of “local delights”. Either someone at the UCLG offices has forgotten that North Grenville exists, or there has been a singular lack of marketing effort in promoting our specialty foods assets.

Off the top of my head, I could think of at least two candidates for such a foodie tour, just in downtown Kemptville alone.

Grahame’s Bakery is famous throughout Eastern Ontario for its fantastic range of baked goods, not to mention the heritage wood-fired oven in which they are prepared. People come here from miles around to buy fresh bread, buns, and all sorts of tasty baked goods, so why isn’t the Bakery on the Foodie Tour route?

And what about the B&H, often described as a specialty foods store that also sells groceries? The list of local specialty

others or their beliefs. I agree, if that means not condemning them for their opinions. But if by judging we mean evaluating, then I think Socrates has a point. It may have always been the case that the majority accepted uncritically whatever authority told them was true, and that has probably caused more tragedy than anything else. That phenomenon hasn’t changed, really. It’s just that now, the identity of the authority has changed, fragmented, assumed by everyone from politicians, religious leaders, and even the single nutcase tapping away on his home computer, giving his unique take on life, the universe and everything. Like me, I suppose. We definitely need to start examining, evaluating, thinking. The answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything is not 42! (For the uninitiated, see “The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy”).

foods available only in the B&H is extensive, not to mention the imports from Britain and Ireland. But local, grass-fed meats, bread and pies baked inhouse, and so many other items that would be obvious entries in the Foodie Tour guide are not there. And these are just two stores that come to mind in North Grenville, but we are completely ignored by the UCLG.

Contrast this with the three stores featured in Merrickville. Worthy inclusions, no doubt, but that’s not the point. The UCLG have a very odd way of deciding what are “unique food shops featuring local delights and exciting imports”. One store featured sells cookware, with various specialty foods as a secondary component. But there is something else that’s strange about the tour. Aside from the three

Merrickville stores, one in Prescott and two in Brockville, all the other locations are in the west end of the United Counties, west of Highway 5. North Grenville is simply part of a wide area of the region bereft, it seems of specialty food shops.

Perhaps the UCLG are simply trying to promote stores in more rural areas, which would be a fine ambition. But the entire branding of the tour doesn’t match that focus.

If this is to be a celebration of “The shops in the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways region”, perhaps it should have cast its net wider?

Maybe the Warden of the UCLG could have a word with the staff at the Counties, where, they say, “lifestyle grows good business”, whatever that means.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY

Residents of the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville & the Towns of Prescott and Gananoque can drop off Household Hazardous Waste

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023

Spencerville Fairgrounds N. Grenville County Patrol Garage Goodin Road Entrance 720 County Rd. # 44 (North end of fairgrounds) (South of Kemptville)

8:30 am – 2:00 pm 8:30 am – 2:00 pm

Materials accepted include petroleum products, oil filters, antifreeze, paints & solvents, batteries, propane tanks, fertilizers, pesticides, light bulbs, fluorescent light bulbs/tubes and pharmaceuticals, all of which are “household” in nature. Private/commercial business waste will not be accepted.

Materials not accepted include commercial and/or industrial waste, electronics, appliances, flares, explosives, PCB’s and radioactive materials. Waste from other municipalities including the City of Brockville will not be accepted.

Questions? Call 342-3840 ext. 2413

Tips for packing a balanced school lunch

by Danielle Labonte, MPH, MAN, RD Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

Children spend much of their waking time at school, so the meals and snacks they eat there are a major source of the energy and nutrients they need to grow, learn, and play. Most schools have a meal or snack program that is available for all students; talk to your child’s teacher or principal to learn more about what your school offers.

When packing a school lunch, try to pack one food from each of the food categories on the new Canada’s Food Guide: vegetables and fruit, whole grains and protein foods. A whole grain pita stuffed with cooked chicken breast and veggies of your choice includes an option from each food category.

For drinks, white milk, unsweetened fortified soy beverage, and plain water are the best choices. Juices, flavoured milks and fortified soy beverages (e.g., chocolate), energy drinks, and sports drinks are high in sugar that kids do not need. Even 100% fruit juice or “no sugar added” fruit juices have quite a bit of natural sugar. Energy drinks should not be offered as they are high in caffeine and other ingredients that are not safe for children. For younger kids, pack foods that are already cut and easy to handle, and in packages and/or containers that they are able to open themselves.

For more ideas on packing a school lunch, check out our “What’s For Lunch?” resources by typing in the search bar at healthunit.org. You can also connect with us on Facebook and follow us on X @LGLHealthUnit for important public health updates.

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Visit our events calendar to find out what’s happening in the community: www.northgrenville.ca/events

Sign-up to receive Mayor Peckford’s e-newsletter at: northgrenville.ca/connect.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Please see the Council agenda for further details on how to participate in Council meetings. All Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/ featured and on the Municipality’s website at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting to clerk@northgrenville.on.ca

Council agendas are available at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

• Wednesday, September 13 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) – Virtual

• Tuesday, September 19 at 7:00 p.m. (Open Session) – Burritt’s Rapids

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committees may be meeting in-person or virtually. Please see the Committee agenda for details on how to attend. Agendas can be found on the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca/meetings

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee – Thursday, September 7 at 5:30 p.m.

• Health, Wellness, and Fitness Advisory Committee – Monday, September 11, at 5:00 p.m.

• Heritage Advisory Committee – Tuesday, September 12 at 4:30 p.m.

• Indigenous Advisory Committee – Thursday, September 14 at 4:30 p.m.

• Housing Advisory Committee – Thursday, September 14 at 5:30 p.m.

• VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Facilities Operator (12-month Contract)

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill a 12-month contract position of Facilities Operator. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 15th, 2023.

Facilities Attendant (Part-Time)

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill part-time positions of Facilities Attendant in the Parks, Recreation & Culture Department. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, October 2, 2023.

Advisory Committees

Join the conversation regarding the community! The Municipality continues to accept applications for members to various advisory committees. Visit northgrenville.ca/committees for more information on how to apply. For questions, please contact the Clerk by email at clerk@ northgrenville.on.ca or by telephone at 613-258-9569 ext 171

TAX BILLS

All 2023 final tax bills have been mailed. If you have not received your bill, please contact the Municipal Office at 613-258-9569. The due dates are June 30 and September 29. Payments can be made in person by cash or debit. Credit card is available only when paying online through the North Grenville website.

NORTH GRENVILLE TRANSIT

North Grenville provides an on-demand accessible transit service for those with disabilities and those 65 years of age and older. Riders can be picked up and dropped off anywhere in North Grenville. For more information and to register visit www.northgrenville.ca/transit or call 613-258-9569 ext. 133

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Financial incentives are available for businesses and property owners to continue the revitalization of Downtown Kemptville. As part of the Downtown Kemptville Community Improvement Plan, intake is now open for the following financial programs: Façade & Signage Grant, People Make the Place Grant, Building Fees Grant, and Tax-Increment Equivalent Residential Grant.

The Development Charges Exemption is still in place for downtown. Intake is on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. If you have questions or are looking to apply, please email vision@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-258-9569 ext 177.

Saint Mike’s student installed as Trustee

Une Rentrée scolaire mémorable au CEPEO!

Baldwin’s Birds

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario has announced that Chloe Finner, a Grade 12 student at St. Michael Catholic High School, has been installed as the next Student Trustee for the CDSBEO. Student Trustee Finner, who served as Associate Student Trustee for the 2022-2023 school year, has assumed the position from Ella Scott.

The Board also welcomed Associate Student Trustee Brooke Guindon, a Grade 11 student at St. Joseph’s Catholic Secondary School, who was also installed at the August 29 Board meeting.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are pleased to welcome Student Trustee Finner and Associate Student Trustee Guindon in their new roles,” noted CDSBEO Chair Sue Wilson. “We know that they will make an outstanding contribution as the voice for all CDSBEO students, and we look forward to working with them this year."

“Thank you for welcoming me back to the team and for putting your trust in me,” noted Trustee Finner in her address to the Board of Trustees. “We look forward to collaborating with the Student Senate and I thank the Senate and the Board of Trustees for this amazing opportunity and privilege.”

As student trustees, Chloe and Brooke will represent the more than 13,300 students across the Board and will lead the Student Senate. The Senate discusses student issues, gathers student opinion, and helps to develop communications with all students across the CDSBEO. It also provides a means for student council leaders and senators to gain leadership skills.

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario operates 39 elementary and 10 secondary schools across eight counties. The CDSBEO offers excellence in Catholic education through provincial leading programs to approximately 13,300 students.

De droite à gauche, Stéphane Vachon, directeur de l’éducation par intérim, Marie-France Harvey, directrice de l’école élémentaire publique Grande-Ourse, Jacinthe Marcil, conseillère scolaire, Marie-Josée Brosseau, surintendante de l’éducation et Nadine Ebakisse, directrice adjointe par intérim de l’école élémentaire publique Grande-Ourse.

Le Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO) est heureux de retrouver ses élèves pour l’année scolaire 2023-2024! C’est avec bienveillance que nous avons accueilli aujourd’hui nos quelque 17 500 élèves dans nos 44 écoles. En route vers l’excellence!

Le directeur de l’éducation par intérim, Stéphane Vachon, était présent ce matin à l’école élémentaire publique Grande-Ourse afin de procéder au lancement de l’année scolaire 2023-2024. Ce fut également l’occasion de dévoiler le tout nouveau logo de l’école, qui continue de se démarquer par excellence académique, sportive et artistique!

« En cette période de nouveau départ, c'est avec une énergie et une détermination renouvelées que nous accueillons nos élèves et notre personnel dans nos écoles. Cette année, nous allons continuer de cultiver une culture de l'excellence en offrant à nos élèves un environnement inclusif et sécuritaire qui nourrit la curiosité, la pensée critique et la créativité », souligne Monsieur Vachon.

Une communauté scolaire unie pour un monde plus vert et plus équitable

Cette année, le CEPEO réitère son engagement en faveur d’un monde plus vert et plus équitable en préparant ses élèves à la réussite scolaire, mais également à devenir des citoyens responsables, compatissants et respectueux de l'environnement.

Pour Samia Ouled Ali, présidente du conseil, il est essentiel que le CEPEO se positionne comme un modèle auprès de sa communauté en tenant compte des principes du développement durable dans l’ensemble de ses pratiques, de ses décisions et de ses actions au quotidien. « Notre engagement en faveur du développement durable témoigne des valeurs que nous inculquons à nos élèves, en leur apprenant à respecter et à chérir la planète dont ils héritent. En adoptant cette approche, nous avons un impact qui dépasse les limites de la salle de classe et nous nous portons garants du changement en semant les graines de la conscience environnementale dans le cœur de nos élèves ».

Mon école francophone depuis 25 ans!

À l’occasion de son 25e anniversaire, le CEPEO invite toute sa communauté à célébrer son quart de siècle de défis et de grandes réussites et à se tourner vers l’avenir ensemble.

Les inscriptions ont lieu en tout temps dans les écoles du CEPEO ou en ligne au cepeo.on.ca/inscription. Pour des renseignements supplémentaires, veuillez communiquer avec nous à l’adresse inscription@cepeo.on.ca par téléphone au 613 742-8960, poste 3004 ou au numéro sans frais : 1-888-332-3736, poste 3004.

Bonne rentrée à toutes et à tous!

Spider-bird, not Spider-man!

Life speeds onwards apace as summer and all the bird activities carry on in the day to day routine of living. The competition for food goes on as usual, with the birds taking second place to our three different coloured squirrels which tend to dominate the scene, but not quite all of it, since they too "see each other off" and have to leave their respective feeding spot to do it. This, of course, gives the birds a chance to feed during the squirrels' fleeting chases of their immediate rivals, whatever their size and colour! The "Little Red" will often be seen pursuing a much larger black or grey variety with the tenacity of a wee red-headed Scot who always comes to mind whenever I see it happen!

As a break from just observing through our front room window, I thought that I would take up a comfortable spot in the garden to observe the Hummingbird activity "live", so to speak, so I got into my car and opened the windows and used it as a "bird-hide" to get some pictures of them. My primary objective was to get some pictures of the Hummingbirds in flight as they came to feed from my suspended feeder. I managed to get some clearer pictures of them this way, but was very upset with those pesky wasps which were also vying with the birds for a sip of the sugar water. I have a few pictures of both the birds and their rival wasps in them. I really can see why the little birds are so twitchy about trying to put their tongues down a hole which might contain a not too happy "stinging beast". I know I would be! Towards the end of the day, the wasps disappear and the Hummingbirds can feed in relative peace when they only get chased by one of "their-own", if that is any consolation to them!

It was whilst I was following the Hummingbird activity that I noticed, out of the corner of my eye, something scaling and then clinging to my garage brick wall. What a surprise - it was a Red-breasted Nuthatch! We don't see them very often compared with the White-breasted variety which are regular visitors. This little fellow didn't stop for very long, and I presume that it had just stopped by to see if there were any flies or spiders to feed on under the eaves. Whatever his reason, it was a nice surprise! Perhaps you too are being treated to bird surprises and, if so, enjoy the moments. Stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

CORRECTION:

Please Note last week's issue we put the wrong price in for Adults. Cost for Adults is $15.

2023 Admission

Thursday - A ‘Free Will’ Monetary Donation to the Food-For-All Food Bank.

Friday:Adults - $15.00, Children 12 and under are Free

Saturday - Adults - $15.00, Children 6-12 $5.00

Children 5 and under Free Sunday - Adults - $15.00, Children 6-12 $5.00

Children 5 and under Free Weekend passes are available for $35.00

Advance sale till September 6th for $30.00 (Online Only)

Rough Camping

All Weekend - $100.00

Includes two weekend fair bands and your camping pass! Passes are available Online, and at the gate.

Admission Prices Include HST

left to right – Board Chair Sue Wilson, Student Trustee Chloe Finner, Associate Student Trustee Brooke Guindon, Director of Education Laurie Corrigan

Another Successful Kemptville College Alumni Reunion

by Joe and Grace Allison- year 168

Graduates of Kemptville College descended upon their new Alumni home at Lombardy Fairgrounds for the annual meeting Saturday, August 19. Graduating years were represented from 1949 to 19968/99. Years ending in 03 or 08 were honour years, which are celebrated every five years. The 2022 reunion saw years ending in 00, 01, 02, 05, 06 and 07 featured in order to catch up for COVID cancellations.

Seventy-two grads and

partners enjoyed lunch followed by 154 attending a delicious chicken dinner prepared and presented by the Lombardy Fair Board ladies. The evening program included tributes to Ron and Joyce Burgess for their significant contribution toward the historical building planning, construction, and curating, as well as recognition of Isabel and Don Kinnear for their outstanding fundraising activity.

Allan Earle, on behalf of year ‘73, presented a cheque in the amount of $4,000.00

Back-to-school safety

Officers of the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to share some back-to-school safety information.

During this back-to-school season, we can expect more traffic, buses and children on the roads during their rush-hour commutes. As students return to the classroom, some beginning as early as this week, the OPP reminds motorists of the importance of sharing our roadways responsibly.

Grenville County OPP will be running a two-week campaign to get drivers back to being student and school aware. The campaign will cover all Grenville County schools in our area and we will be conducting strict enforcement starting with the first day back to school on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023.

Please remember the following:

Obey speed limits and stay alert, especially in school and playground zones.

Avoid using cell phones and other distractions while driving.

When a school bus is flashing its alternating red lights, traffic in both directions must stop and not pass. Failure to do so could result in a fine. For the first offence, fines range from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. Each following offence ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 and six demerit points and possible jail time up to six months.

When pedestrians are crossing the street, come to a complete stop and do not block the crosswalk with your vehicle. Make eye contact with the pedestrian and ensure that they have cleared the road before proceeding.

Always follow the direction of the crossing guards. Crossing guards are there to keep children safe.

Keep an eye out for children, especially during school operating hours. Kids can easily become distracted and do not always understand the rules of the road.

Unload child passengers away from traffic and congestion or in a designated drop-off area.

We want to make sure the start of the school year is a safe one. By practicing safe driving behaviours in our school zones, we can each do our part to reduce roadway risks this September.

toward the Kemptville College Alumni scholarship fund which had been raised at their 50th reunion event held on April 27. This generous donation, in combination with the evening's auction results, saw $6,036.00 raised in total for the Alumni scholarship fund.

Year '68 turned out in force, with 56 for dinner including 35 grads. Once again, they claimed the 'spirit award' until 2024's gathering decides the next year’s trophy holder. All Kemptville Alumni are welcome

and encouraged to attend each annual celebration, not just their honour 5-year increment. It is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new friends, and keep abreast of Alumni developments.

Mark August 17, 2024 on your calendar now. Years ending in '04 and '09 will be honoured, but remember everyone is welcome to attend. 2024 Scholarship forms will be on the web shortly. Check out www.kcalumni.ca.

The Weather with Connor

ing towards the City, and when I got to about North Gower, started to realize what was about to happen. A flash flooding event would start to unfold.

Hello, everyone! Welco me back to another week of The Weather with Connor. This week, I’d like to talk about another chase that I need to catch up on writing about. This column will be about the August 10th, 2023 flooding event in Ottawa.

This day was a bit of a weird one, as the day turned into something models were not showing at all. I knew that storms were going to fire up early in the day, which ended up being the morning, and move to the east. This is what happened, but I didn’t expect storms to form into what they did.

As storms started to strengthen and evolve, it all formed into a line and cluster, and headed into Ottawa. I started driv-

That line of storms wasn’t similar to other lines that typically move southeast or just straight east. This line was something I like to call “training thunderstorms”, a line of storms that continuously moves over one area over a period of several hours. It arrived in Ottawa early in the afternoon and reports of flooding were quickly coming in as the torrential rain wreaked havoc on the city.

I started by going onto Prince of Whales out of Manotick where the rain was so heavy, I couldn’t even see where the road was in front of me. It was flooded over too, on fresh pavement without lines, which made it even more difficult. At this point, I started to hear rumours about Merivale Road, so that was my next destination.

Merivale Road was a disaster, both northbound and southbound, around the Hunt Club area. The

road had completely flooded over, about waist deep, underneath a bridge at Merivale and Colonnade Road. Five cars were submerged underneath and had to be towed away. Obviously, both directions of the road were closed, which sent the area into chaos as people had to go down small roads to get back onto another route to take them where they needed to go. All of this after only about one hour of rain.

Next, I headed over to the Walkley Road area as I had heard that some residential streets were deeply flooded near Canterbury High School. Along the way, I found an intersection that was flooded at the Food Basics on Walkley. Cars were struggling through it, but it wasn’t bad enough for trucks to struggle as they just went flying by, spewing water everywhere. I watched that little flood fix itself as the drain caught up.

Next, I headed into the Elmvale Acres neighborhood. This was the worst area of my flood coverage journey. The parking lot at the Hillcrest High School

was flooded deep, with a car submerged and water going inside the school itself. Water was running out of the parking lot and quickly down Hamlet Road. It flowed quite far, all the way to Saunderson Drive, which is the lowest point of the neighborhood. This area was also about waist deep, but water was going up driveways and touching houses, flooding some basements in the area.

When all was over, it rained heavy for about 5 or 6 hours straight. Some parts of the City saw over 100mm of rain in 3 hours (I had a report of 120mm in the Bank/Heron area). This was one of the wildest flash flooding events in the City of Ottawa in a long, long, long time. And since this day, there really haven’t been any storms at all. Mother nature has been giving Ottawa the break it needs after the crazy summer it’s had.

The Class of ‘68 , the honour year that won the Spirit Award

Featuring Connor Mockett

Fall Car Care

Thinking ahead is the best investment

by Brandon Mayer

It typically doesn’t take more than hour or two of highway driving before the average motorist will come across a broken down vehicle. Sometimes the problem is unclear just from looking at the car, as would be the case with a dead battery or faulty fuel pump, for example. But sometimes, the problem is obvious even to the untrained eye.

Have you ever seen a vehicle on the side of the highway with a missing wheel or a badly blown-out tire? What about a vehicle with one of its wheels twisted completely out of alignment with the other three? Most of us have. It happens far too often. My first thought is always “how lucky is the driver that this didn’t end up being a total wreck”. It’s probably true that driving skill also has something to do with these situations not turning out much worse.

The statistical problem lies in what we don’t see. How many “single vehicle accidents” are the result of a malfunction in critical mechanical parts, such as the wheels, axels, ball joints, or bearings? How many occur because of ignored warnings, when a vehicle was giving its driver ample clues that it was experiencing engine trouble only to shut off unexpectedly at highway speed? Some estimates place the implication of mechanical failure in car accidents as high as 10-15% of all accidents.

What can you do about it? Trust your senses! A shake, a rattle, a squeak, a thump… these new or worsening symptoms are a cry out for maintenance from your car. This also goes for strange engine noises or behaviours, a steady pull to one side or the other, vibrating noises that change depending on which way you are turning, maintenance lights on the dashboard, dimming lights or electrical abnormalities – really, anything unusual.

When it comes to your car, thinking ahead really should be the first investment for your safety and for the safety of those who ride with you, such as your children. Our local area is lucky to have honest and hardworking mechanics working in garages that are well equipped to serve you. Be confident that you can trust them for your routine maintenance, and repairs when something goes wrong. It’s a decision that could – literally – save your life.

43 Auto

43 AutoWorks offers complete car repair and maintenance for your foreign and domestic vehicles. Your vehicle is important to you and that's why keeping it well maintained is our top priority. We know a thing or two about cars and trucks. 43 AutoWorks is a family owned and operated with a combined 60+ years of experience with strong ties to the community.

Celebrating 10 years of serving North Grenville and beyond

Newly renorvated building

OGILVIE’S AUTO & FLEET SERVICE

The staff at Ogilvie’s can handle any repair you need. The technicians are always improving their abilities and expanding their capability to serve their clients’ every need. We got you covered with the Napa 12 month / 20,000 km "Peace of Mind Warranty". Ogilvie’s uses only the best products to enhance your vehicle’s performance. Industry trusted. Check out our Used Car Selection. All our Cars are safetied and E-tested.

G&S AUTOMOTIVE LTD

We treat your car like a Ferrari so it will PEFfORM like a Ferrari! One of our specialties is high quality tires to keep you and your family safe on the road. Service specialist for front and rear brakes and Anti-lock braking system repair; suspension and steering repair as well as wheel alignments; Exhaust repair including custom pipe bending & fabrication. State of the art computerized engine diagnostic & tune up

R. ROSE AUTOMOTIVE

Whether you're coming in for a routine inspection or a repair service, we promise that you will be completely satisfied with our work. We provide 12-month warranties with all of our services for your peace of mind. We're committed to providing a stressfree experience to both new and returning customers. Our shop only uses parts from reputable brands to ensure that your vehicle is always ready to drive.

It has been our honour and privilege to serve the people within our great community since 2008. We have built our reputation on listening to our customers’ needs and working within their budget, all while keeping them safe on the road. It is our mission for 2023 to provide the same great service. Keep us in mind for all your future Automotive, 24/7 Towing and Autobody needs.

ROCKING THE HOUSE FOR 10 YEARS IN NORTH GRENVILLE

Stay tuned for more information about our anniversary celebrations!

Music therapy is a major part of Rock My House Music Centre programming. At Rock My House, we believe that music is for everyone. Our strong focus on bringing music to men, women and children with special needs sets us apart from other, more traditional, music schools.

Rock My House founder Kevin Eamon is very passionate about the benefits of music therapy for a very personal reason. For Eamon, undiagnosed and unknowingly suffering from ADD, drumming became his salvation. Playing drums for hours upon hours eased his social anxiety and depression. Music became his own form of therapy. He called it his Drum Therapy. Who would have thought all these years that Music Therapy would become a recognized form of therapy, supported by a wealth of scientific research. Music and Drum Therapy has been used to treat various disorders such as substance abuse, cardiac conditions and Alzheimer's

As leader of Rock My House’s therapy programs, Kevin personally works closely with local community-living organizations, giving half hour semi-private classes throughout the week. Students join him in the Rock My House events room where they are encouraged to play various rhythm instruments and listen to some of their favorite music.

NEW THIS YEAR

Rock My House is offering semi-private group drum lessons for up to 3 students at a reduced rate. Call or email to inquire about this unique opportunity.

TEACHERS NEEDED

Do you have a passion for music? Rock My House is seeking teachers for various instruments to help inspire the future generation of musicians.

669 South Drive (South Gower Park) Kemptville

613-258-5656

kevin@rockmyhousemc.com

12-9 Monday through Friday

Temporarily closed on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays.

The 168th Spencerville Fair

The Spencerville Agricultural Society is very excited to bring you this year’s fair which will host new experiences, new attractions, and the same family-fun that you’ve all come to know and love. Come check out and participate in your fair favourites, including our Baby Show, Pet Show, Livestock Show, Royalty Show, as well as all of our exhibit building competitions, with tens of thousands of dollars in prize money to be won! For details about all of our shows and exhibits, please see our 2023 Fair Book online.

This year, in addition to our classic attractions, including our Touch a Truck, Parade, Demolition Derby, Midway, and Vendor Show, you can also expect some changes that we know will bring even more fun to our fair:

· Due to high demand, our Truck Pulls and Tractor Pulls will be separated, with Truck Pulls appearing on Friday night and Tractor Pulls on Saturday.

· Our Purebred Beef and Cattle Show has been moved

to Sunday at noon, and now includes a simmental class as a point show for the Ottawa Valley Simmental Association.

· The Barn of Learning has been relocated to our historic cattle barn, and will be host to this year’s Farmer’s Olympics, happening all weekend long.

· FREE admission to the entertainment arena with your fair ticket on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday of the Fair.

· Revamped exhibit building classes to bring you more variety to look forward to.

New to this year’s fair, we are excited to announce the following:

Entertainment on every night of our 4-day fair, including, for the first time ever, an Open Mic Night on Thursday, September 7.

· On Friday night, we will be opening our new Trackside Tavern for spectators of legal age to enjoy a drink while

they watch our Truck Pulls.

· Partnering with the Spencerville Optimist Club, we will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, September 9.

· The Baker’s Building will host our first ever Antique Showcase, which will display classic and traditional farm equipment used throughout Canadian history.

· The Spencerville Fair Tasting Experience, which will showcase our brand-new Spencerville Fair Vodka!

Finally, we will also be joined for live performances by Twin Turbos, Little Bones, Amanda Keeley, Ty Wilson, Teigen Gayse, Colby Drummond, Gail Gavan, and George Fox. More announcements to follow as we work through all of the details. For updates regarding the fair, please visit our website at www.spencervillefair.ca, or find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Come Home to Your Fair!

Summer Spotlight Dairy Show

by Kelly Fawcett-Mathers

The Summer Spotlight Junior Dairy Show was held on August 26 in conjunction with the Chesterville Fair. The show was spearheaded by Hugh and Dianne Fawcett who were extremely pleased with the turnout of exhibitors and quality of animals presented. This show brought together youth from as far west as Napanee and as far east as Ormstown, QC. Those participating were extremely keen and brought a great energy with them, many stating how much fun they had and the great vibe felt within the barn.

Judge Curtis McNeil from Goderich commented

on the “tremendous group of showpeople. Everyone should be very proud of these young people; it takes a lot of work at home, as we all know."

He went on to congratulate the exhibitors, their parents and leaders for the work that they put in. Taking Champion Showmanship honours was Taylor Mathers of Winchester. Reserve Champion Showperson was Emily Smygwaty from Russell, followed by Felix Loiselle from St-Stanislas de Kostka, QC for Honourable Mention. In the afternoon,

Judge McNeil placed the confirmation classes, winning with Sunnylodge SL

Sidekick Jade, the entry of Taylor Mathers for Champion Calf. Reserve Champion Calf was the entry of Hailey Smygwaty with Hodglynn Alligator Barbie, and Honourable Mention Calf was entry of Emily Smygwaty with Weeberlac Tennessee Whiskey.

Local businesses were appreciated for their sponsorship of the show and the jackpot prizes awarded to the champion and reserve showpeople and calves. Show sponsors included Rutters Elevators Inc, Sunnylodge Farms Inc, Sybrenson Farms Inc, Fawcettview Farms Inc, Brugline Farms Ltd, O'Farrell Wealth & Es-

tate Planning, TD Agriculture Services, and Dundas Feed & Seed. Special thanks to Chesterville Fair for being gracious hosts for this event.

Show Results:

Novice Showmanship:

1st: Ethan Velthuis (Mountain, ON); 2nd: Ashton Bryson (Ormstown, QC)

Junior Showmanship:

1st: Emily Smygwaty (Russell, ON); 2nd: Felix Loiselle (St-Stanislas de Kostka, QC)

Intermediate Showmanship: 1st: Taylor Mathers (Winchester, ON); 2nd : Lydia De Vries (Sydenham, ON)

Senior Showmanship: 1st : Samantha Hildbrand (St. Albert, ON); 2nd : Kate

McEwen (Metcalfe, ON)

Champion Showperson: Taylor Mathers; Reserve Champion Showperson: Emily Smygwaty; Honourable Mention Showperson: Felix Loiselle

Spring Calf: 1st: Weeberlac Tennessee Whiskey (Emily Smygwaty); 2nd: Riverdown Alt Thats Time Out (Aubrey Moodie)

Winter Calf: 1st: Winright SL Sidekick Jade (Taylor Mathers); 2nd: Hodglynn Alligator Barbie (Hailey Smygwaty)

Fall Calf: 1st: Beslea Lambda Aberdeen (Joelle De Vries); 2nd: Strathburn Beslea Victorious Esquire ET (Lydia De Vries)

Summer Yearling: 1st: Sunnylodge Diamondback Kinsely (Ryan Smygwaty); 2nd: Rosenhill Brayden Cali Red (Samantha Hildbrand) Spring Yearling: 1st : Archo Chief Dakota (Keith Quinn); 2nd: Rapid Bay Reviresco Lady Belle (Maeve McIntyre)

Champion Calf: Winright SL Sidekick Jade (Taylor Mathers); Reserve Champion Calf: Hodglynn Alligator Barbie (Hailey Smygwaty); Honourable Mention Calf: Weeberlac Tennessee Whiskey (Emily Smygwaty)

by Fred Schueler and Aleta Karstad

Fragile Inheritance natural history

It's getting to be the time of year when clothing and dogs may come back from outings knotted and bunched up with the hooky fruits of Burdock plants. These are species of the genus Arctium, native to Europe and Asia, but widely introduced across North America. The Burdocks are huge

rhubarb-leaved, biennial herbs in the Aster family. "Arctium" is from the Greek word for bear and refers to the appearance of the flowers, which are bristly spheres instead of ordinary daisy-like Asters. The flowers mature as balls of hooked bracts that allow them to cling to clothing and animal fur. Bats and small birds are sometimes fatally trapped on the burrs, and the hooked burrs inspired the invention of Velcro in the early 1940s.

Locally, we have two species of Burdock, Arctium minus and A. lappa. A. minus, "Lesser Burdock," credited by Wikipedia with 1.8 m height and 30 cm roots, was the only species around in the 1970s, but through the years we've tracked the regional spread of A. lappa ("Greater Burdock)" in Eastern Ontario, wikied at 3 m tall,

with a 1 m root. The species are hard to tell apart until they flower, but the "Greater" burrs are larger and flatter-topped and the plant is more sprawling. The "Lesser" burrs are smaller and more spherical, even somewhat pointed to the top at times, and the growth of the plant is more upright and conical. Once you know the differences in the burrs and in the way they're deployed, you can pretty well identify fruiting plants while driving past at highway speeds.

We've recently engaged with Burdock because when Fred protested that it wasn't an invasive species in eastern Ontario, he was put on the Burdock "Best Management Practices" team of the Ontario Invasive Plants Council. This plan is being funded by the city of Toronto, and being on the team has

triggered us to notice that the Burdocks are much more abundant in Ottawa than in rural areas. This fits our idea that turkeys, the only birds that go after the Burdock seeds, may be controlling their abundance in rural areas. We don't have Burdock observations from before turkeys arrived in the 1980s, but when we're in New Brunswick, where Burdock is abundant all over the landscape, we record where the stands are to see if they decline as turkeys become abundant there.

Besides controlling the burrs as nuisances, we mostly relate to Burdocks as vegetables, and in the Orient they're domesticated for this, and called "Gobo." The huge taproots are delicious both after the plant dies back in the fall, and before it shoots up in the spring, with only three problems:

the roots are so long that no matter how deeply you dig, you only seem to get half of the total volume of the root, the skin is so rough and dirty-looking that it's unappealing to peel, and in some older roots the fl esh contains so much tough fibre that it has to be peeled to the more tender core. They're best when cooked grated or sliced.

In the early spring, the first-emerging shoots can be cooked as greens, or used fresh as a salad ingredient. In May and early June, as the stems get thick and tall and begin to leaf out, before the flowers form, we harvest the stems and peel them while the stem centre is still full and tender, before it becomes hollow and pithy.

The thick outer layer of even the heaviest young stems peels easily with a paring knife. We

steam them, or boil them in just enough water to cover for about ten minutes. They have a slightly sweet flavour and are marvelously adaptable and nutritious in all kinds of dishes. We cut them up and toss them into stir fry, and they're very nice used cold in bean salads. Of course, they're great hot out of the pot with salt, butter and pepper, or mixed with cooked leafy greens.

So far, Burdock hasn't taken over our Eastern Ontario garden, and we harvest the first-year plants or cut most of the taller second year plants before their burrs are mature and ready to snag passersby. That way we can keep them to ourselves to admire and harvest, and they don't get "shared" with those who haven't yet learned to manage and use them.

Champion Showpeople: L to R: Mark Smith (Sponsor, Sunnylodge Farms Inc), Felix Loiselle (Honourable Mention Showperson), Emily Smygwaty (Reserve Champion Showperson), Taylor Mathers (Champion Showperson), Curtis McNeil (Judge).

Champion Calves: L to R: Garry Brugmans (Sponsor, Brugline Farms), Kelly Fawcett-Mathers (Sponsor, TD Agriculture Services), Curtis McNeil (Judge), Emily Smygwaty (Honourable Mention Calf), Hailey Smygwaty (Reserve Champion Calf), Taylor Mathers (Champion Calf), Kylene Barton and Michael Aube (Sponsors, Rutters Elevators) Photo Credit: Lyndsay Berry Photography

Burdockery

Fred with a 53 x 64 cm

Burdock leaf

FOR SALE

Mens Ten Speed Bike for sale, gently used and in great condition. $50.00 firm. Send email to fraserrj670410@ gmail.com

Pair of 6 inch aluminum I-beams. 16 ft long. $150 (613)282-1836 phone calls only please

Sawmill for Sale

Heavy duty dimensional sawmill (Southern) for sale. Equipped with two 20-inch edger blades and a 32-inch main blade, which produces a finished board with each pass. Ideal for quarter sawing hardwood flooring. Max cutting size is 6” X 12” x 20 ft. This mill is in good operating condition and is equipped with a 4-cylinder, 60 hp diesel engine The mill is located near Merrickville, ON. Phone 613-258-3854

Cedar posts and rails for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

4X4 round bales of hay and straw for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

Dry firewood for sale $110 a cord plus delivery fee. Call or text Jon 613-2273650

MISCELLANEOUS

HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritts Rapids!

Start a book club in time for cooler weather in a hamlet near walking trails and parkettes. Our hall is well equipped for any gathering or celebration, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids.com

WANTED

Used license plates wanted 613 302 6288

Looking to harvest cedar trees for hedges off acreages from landowners. Please call Joanne 613-799-0958

Experienced+local farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com.

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

FOR RENT

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment. Laundry, appliances included. 1 block proximity to all amenities. Immediate occupancy, $1975/ month. Call Jeff at 613978-4700

CROSSWORD

GARAGE SALE

Sept. 8 & 9 from 9 - 3 at 755 County Rd 44. Home decor, antiques, tools, collectibles.

FOR SALE SOON

Right in Kemptville on Somerville Rd., half a block from the Creek.

If you need parking YUP this is the place where you can park your motor home, race car trailer, backhoe, dump trailer, boats, 4 wheelers and still have room for a jag of visitors to the pool. AND a 24 X 30 garage 10 foot ceiling insulated and heated. OH it also comes with a high ranch bungalow

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT - PART TIME

Afternoon and evenings, weather dependent Light duty work. Must be a resident of Kemptville, Transportation provided.

$20 An hour to start. No experience required CALL 613 894 5210

COMMUNITY EVENTS

RECURRING EVENTS

FISH FRY October 21:St. Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall, 319 Prescott Street, Kemptville, 4:30 - 7:30 PM. Eat in or Take Out. Tickets: $20.00 for adults, $15.00 for children 12 and under. For tickets or details: leslie@claxondirect.com or call 613-258-0384.

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

BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, doors open at noon

NG Duplicate Bridge Club Bridge, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

EUCHRE on Tuesday, September 19 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ ymail.com.

BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, September 12 and 26 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Modern Square Dancing, Free Open House; Monday September 11 and 18, 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the NG Municipal Centre, Free! FOR MORE INFO, Call Debbie at 613-795-3032 or Google "Kemptville Square Dancing"

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

holder

Easy Medium Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

Terry Fox - what a true legacy looks like

across the country to collect money for cancer research".

by Brandon Mayer

Quite often in this country, and in many countries around the world, we tend to idolize certain people. Sure, there are actors and musicians and authors who are very adept at their respective crafts, but for me it raises a simple question - what warrants fame?

If simply being good at one's job was a reason to be famous, there would be far more famous people in the world. Have you ever had a proud moment at work, when you performed a task with great skill, or handled a tricky situation with utmost professionalism, and wondered for a fleeting moment

how cool it would be if everyone in the world had seen it and saw how great you are? Average people seldom get recognized for what they do, but everyone does great things.

Most kids value fame. At some point or another, they dream of becoming movie stars or famous singers. Humans are attention-seeking creatures. Attention fills our cup. So what happens when someone who never wanted to be famous gets famous anyway? Well, we like him even more.

The best part of Terry Fox's legacy (no introduction needed) is that he wasn't interested in fame. His own website still refers to him simply as "just a guy running

Historically speaking

This remains his description more than 40 years after his death and following decades of international recognition, streets named after him, and literally millions of people participating in events in his name. Forty years and $850 million later, "just a guy running across the country".

It has been said that "Canadians prefer modest heroes", and I think that is absolutely the case. Personally, I cannot overstate how much more respect I have for someone like Terry Fox than I do for any "famous YouTuber". I hope that young kids today feel that same thing in their hearts. A respect for Terry Fox does not need to come solely from a respect for the global fight against cancer. Too often, people shirk responsibility for their own goals, their own happiness, and their own shortcomings. Terry Fox didn't have wealth, fame, or extensive resources behind him.

He simply made a decision to do all he could to help an important cause, and a more important decision never to quit. That attitude should be an inspiration for all Canadians.

One of the most striking things for me about the Terry Fox story is what became of the now-iconic camper van. The Ford camper van that acted as a touring vehicle for the small Marathon of Hope crew on the road was actually loaned to Terry Fox by the Ford Motor Company. After Terry's passing, it was returned to Ford, and subsequently owned by a few average families over the course of 20 years. It has since been found and restored, but I believe the simple fact that the vehicle spent decades in regular circulation exemplifies the Terry Fox movement perfectly. It was never about fame and glory - that vehicle was simply a tool as part of an important endeavor. Nobody stopped to think,

"holy cow, this is a rare and valuable artifact" in the years after Terry's passing. It was just a van.

Terry Fox has a true legacy to his name. Perhaps the type of legacy most worthy of glory and fame is the legacy of those who never wanted glory and fame.

Upcoming "Terry Fox Run"

This year's official Terry Fox Run will take place on September 17. Schools and individual organizations often organize their own fundraising events and schedules for these events. The Terry Fox Run began over 40 years ago after Terry Fox endeavored to run the entire way across Canada in 1980 to raise awareness about cancer and to raise money for cancer research after a battle with cancer that cost him most of his right leg.

Terry was from Port Coquitlam, BC, and he began his journey by dipping his leg in the Atlantic Ocean on

Canada's East Coast on April 12, 1980, with the goal of running all the way home.

Terry's journey was tragically cut short on September 1, 1980 in Thunder Bay, after running a remarkable 5,373 kilometres. His cancer had returned - this time to his lungs - and on June 28, 1981, Terry passed away, but not before insisting that his Run and the fight against cancer must continue.

Supervised by the Terry Fox Foundation, the Run has raised over $850 million in Terry's name to fund cancer research, with the amount increasing every year. Events are held both in Canada and internationally, with money being raised in other countries usually used to fund research in the host country.

Those interested in learning more about Terry Fox and his legacy can visit https://terryfox.org.

Sweet support for NG Community in Parkinson's Canada SuperWalk

by Donna Ross, MDHS Lecture Series Coordinator

The Merrickville and District Historical Society ever-popular Lecture Series resumes after the summer break. Please join us on Tuesday, September 26, at 7 pm at the Merrickville Legion for an illustrated talk, "The City That Didn't Die: The Legacies of the Halifax Explosion December 6, 1917" presented by Dr. Della Stanley. It is now 106 years since the then world's largest human caused explosion, prior to the bombing of Hiroshima, hit the cities of Halifax and Dartmouth, Nova Scotia in the early morning of December 6. The lecture will explain how this tragedy happened, and what was learned in the aftermath of the devastation and the recovery of Halifax that took place.

The presenter, Dr. Della Stanley, received her master's and PhD from the Uni-

versity of New Brunswick in Canadian History. As a professor of Canadian History and Canadian Studies, she taught at Queen's University, Kingston and Saint Mary's University, Halifax. Then in 1986, she returned to her first love, interdisciplinary Canadian Studies, becoming the Director of Canadian Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University where she remained for 24 years. Upon retirement, she was named a "Professor Emeritus" at MSVU.

Della continues to be involved in Canadian his-

tory through her volunteer advisory and consultant roles such as archivist at the Ottawa City Archives and Club Historian at the Rideau Club. She often speaks at schools and public venues on Canadian topics.

We hope to see you on September 26 to hear Dr. Stanley recount the story of the explosion itself and of the many legacies of that horrific event. It promises to be a true Canadian history lecture complemented by sweet treats, courtesy of Violets on Main Bakery!

Kemptville LEGION

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Men's Darts -Tuesdays - 7pm

Bingo 1 & 3rd Wednesdays - 1-3pm

Klub 67 Euchre 2 & 4th Wednesdays - 1-3-pm

Mixed Darts -Thursdays - 7pm

Friday Sept 1, 8 & 15 - open 3-9pm

Saturday Sept 16th - Breakfast 8-10am

Sept 20th - General Meeting -7:30pm

Friday Sept 22nd - Open 6pm - Karaoke 8-11pm

Sept 24th - Open Mic - 2-5pm

Sept 30th - Doug & Pam Champagne Band 8-11pm

The Parkinson's Canada SuperWalk is an annual event held in both large and small communities across Canada. The Ottawa date for the SuperWalk is September 9, 2023, and it is held at the Ron Kolbus Centre. Parkinson's Canada also offers a virtual option. The SuperWalk is an opportunity for anyone living with Parkinson's Disease, and their families and friends, to raise funds for advocacy, research, and support for the condition.

Parkinson's Disease is the fastest growing neurological disease in Canada. It has many facets. Treatments range from medical interventions, such as Deep Brain Stimulation or Focused UltraSound Therapy, and/or medications to assist with the effects of the condition. Exercise and diet are also recommended for body and mind health.

The Boxing 4 Health fitness centre in Ottawa (www.boxing4health.com) focuses on exercise classes (onsite and online), nutritional guidance, and other supports for individuals with Parkinson's; it has helped to foster and support an engaged community of people with similar conditions. The fitness centre also offers exercise opportunities for individuals without PD.

Each year, the B4H SuperWalk Team participates in the Ottawa Superwalk; the team includes members of the Boxing 4 Health gym and their families, friends, and supporters.

This year, Ottawa's Merry Dairy is supporting the Boxing 4 Health SuperWalk Team by offering a percentage of ice cream sales toward their Parkinson's Canada SuperWalk fundraising efforts. To support members of the North Grenville community involved in the SuperWalk as part of the Boxing 4 Health (B4H) Team, or to support Parkinson's Canada's research and advocacy generally, ice cream can be ordered and picked up (in Ottawa, also delivered) through this link: https:// shop.themerrydairy.com/products/b4h. The Merry Dairy ice cream truck will be onsite at the Ron Kolbus Centre on September 9 from 12:30-2:00 pm for ice cream cones, pickup of orders, and sales.

If participating in the Parkinson's Canada SuperWalk at the Ron Kolbus Centre is of interest, the schedule is as follows:

Event Day Agenda:

Registration - 9:00 am to 10:00 am

Opening Ceremony - 10:00 am to 10:45 am

Warm-Up Exercises - 10:45 am to 11:00 am

Start SuperWalking - 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Lunch and Mingle - 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm

Preventing diabetes risk due to COVID-19 infection

Will COVID-19 and the complications associated with this disease ever vanish? Never bet on it. Virus experts say COVID-19 will rise its ugly head again this fall. With it, they add, the complication of both types of diabetes will increase. It's the last thing we need when obesity is already causing a worldwide pandemic of type 2 diabetes. So, how can you reduce the risk? It's easier than you think.

First, type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin. Lifelong replacement and management of this hormone is the only option. With the more common type 2 diabetes, the body does not respond normally to insulin. We call this "Lifestyle Diabetes". Why? Because it is preventable by avoiding obesity. Some cases can be reversed by losing weight.

What causes these two types of diabetes in COVID patients? At this point, no one is certain. Some point out that patients with infections have higher blood sugar. Other experts believe chronic infection may play a role. But it is the consensus that patients with severe COVID-19 have a higher risk of developing these two types of diabetes. Fortunately, they report that the risk is small.

What do experts advise to lower the risk of being struck by the virus again? For good reason, they urge everyone to keep up to date on vaccination. Look at history to know how vaccination has saved many lives.

The other advice must be repeated over and over with or without a pandemic. Follow a sound lifestyle. Start early in life and stick with it. Maintain a healthy weight to escape degenerative diseases like type 2 diabetes. Remember that during a pandemic it's the obese who end up in the intensive care unit fighting for air and their lives.

Stop smoking. Damaged lungs will mean more smokers die. How could it be otherwise?

Get into better shape. It does not matter how. Start slowly if running or weightlifting. Ergometric exercises are easy and effective. Put palms facing and push together for 10 seconds repeatedly. You will be surprised how the bicep muscles strengthen. Never let your arms and legs become so weak you cannot get up from the toilet seat!

The big message is to improve immunity. It’s mind-boggling why one vital fact is rarely mentioned by experts. That is, a few inexpensive, safe, and effective vitamins and minerals enhance immunity.

Vitamin C is the "forever vitamin". Why? Because it involves so many health benefits. For instance, researchers report that during an influenza epidemic, elderly patients suffering from pneumonia were treated with only 200 milligrams daily. It decreased mortality by an amazing 80 percent.

Vitamin D provides another boost to immunity. The starting dose is 5,000 international units (IU) daily for two weeks then decrease to 2,000 IU daily. It's also prudent to add 400 mg of either magnesium citrate, malate or chloride, zinc 50 mg, and selenium 100 micrograms daily.

Vitamin C is water soluble and lost in urine, so it should be taken in divided doses 3 times a day. During times of stress, vitamin C in the blood quickly depletes and so does your immunity. The solution is to keep white blood cells loaded with C so they can immediately pump virus fighters into vital organs.

Start preparing for the next pandemic. It will come as sure as night follows day. Make vitamin C and the other suggestions a daily habit. Compared to prescription drugs that may have lethal problems, these natural remedies have never killed anyone.

And remember, the voyage of a thousand miles begins with the first step.

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Mental Health Matters

What is bullying?

Community Volunteers

support local health care

Many adults over a certain age commonly talk about how much worse bullying was when they were in school. These adults will tell you that their childhood took place during the days of stolen lunch money, massive wedgies, relentless teasing and intimidation and full on beatings. It would be wrong to suggest that bullying no longer exists in the school system, but it’s certainly nothing like it used to be. Schools now have zero tolerance policies which ensure that consequences for the bully are essentially mandatory, and supervision is far better than it used to be. Attitudes have also shifted heavily away from the nonsense that being bullied is a "right of passage" to adulthood.

Bullying, by definition, is a repeated action over a period of time. Not minutes or hours, but days, weeks, months, even years. Kids are kids - they will be mean sometimes, and a single instance of hitting or name-calling does not constitute bullying. Misrepresenting a single incident as "bullying" can muddy the problem for those who are truly experiencing it.

Kids are naturally inclined to use strong words to make sure that they are taken seriously. It is very common for kids to say that someone is "bullying" them, or that they are "being bullied", after just one or two incidents of someone being unkind. It's absolutely important for all instances of unkind treatment to be dealt with, but

don't be afraid to ask your child for more details so that you can properly present the facts to your child's educators for a follow up.

Bullying has signs, but some bullying victims feel very intimidated and may try to hide what's going on. This is why family time is important. Depending on a child's age, there are certain times when important topics like school are more likely to come up, such as during dinner time or at bedtime. It's important to stick to a routine to ensure that these important parts of the day are not rushed. If your child has always had a good experience at school but suddenly hates school this year or is having behaviour problems, don't be afraid to ask questions.

If you do suspect bullying, remember that educators are dedicated people who care about the children they work with. They will handle incidents swiftly, thoroughly, and with discretion. It is understandable that you will be upset about what your child is going through, but the best way to handle it is to work with school staff on a solution.

The bottom line? Bullying is less of a problem than it used to be, but it remains one of parents' top concerns when sending their kids off to school. This back-toschool season, be reassured that schools are safe, and that you can help by maintaining a strong connection with your child and their school so that you can stay informed about their educational experience.

by Jane Adams

The newest members of the Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) Board of Directors say they want to learn and contribute to local health care. Andrea Jewell and Tamara Williams are ready to get to work!

Andrea Jewell says that joining the WDMH Board is bringing her back to her rural roots. She was born and raised in Shawville and spent the first ten years of her career at Shawville Community Hospital. She is a Registered Nurse who has also worked in Pembroke and more recently at The Ottawa Hospital and Bruyère. She served two terms on the Board of the College of Nurses of Ontario and says she’s at the point in her career where she wants to give back.

“I saw the recruitment ad online, noting that WDMH was looking for a new member with a healthcare background,” she says. “I didn’t know a lot about Winchester Hospital but everyone I talked to said ‘you have to go and see it - it’s amazing!’. So I did. It felt like coming home.”

Andrea, her husband and dog Abby live in the south end of Ottawa. She loves to travel, read and dabble in acrylic painting.

Tamara Williams likes talking about data and quality. She began her healthcare career in 1999 as a Physiotherapist at a community clinic and The Ottawa Hospital and moved into a role implementing data collection procedures for the regional joint replacement registry. From there, she worked at the Canadian Institute for Health Information and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. “I enjoy looking at system data and quality indicators,” says Tamara. “It’s all about the patient experience and making it the best it can be.”

Tamara has used WDMH’s Emergency Department since she moved to Metcalfe more than 20 years ago. When her husband suffered a significant head injury, Tamara saw first-hand how important it was to help patients navigate the health system. “It’s good to know our community hospital is there. The service has always been great.”

Tamara and her husband live in Metcalfe. She has a health coaching business and volunteers with the Russell Running Club and the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre. She is also an avid knitter.

Two other Board members have completed their full terms on the WDMH Board. Thank you to Renee Belhumeur and James Pitruniak for their commitment to local health care. For the 2023/24 fiscal year, the Board will be led by Chair Bruce Millar, Vice Chair Jennifer Milburn and Treasurer Annik Blanchard.

WDMH is governed by a Board of Directors made up of volunteers from local communities. Board members share their time and expertise and are responsible for the oversight and accountability for the Hospital’s mission, vision and values, quality and performance monitoring, strategic planning, financial stewardship and relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

“Thank you to all the Board members who share their time and expertise and bring diverse skills to the table,” notes WDMH CEO Cholly Boland. “They help us fulfill our commitment to compassionate excellence.”

If you would like to provide comments or suggestions about hospital services, please contact Cholly Boland, President and CEO, Winchester District Memorial Hospital at 613.774.1049 or by email at cboland@wdmh.on.ca.

Director Andrea Jewell Director Tamara Williams

by Brandon Mayer

OFA and partners searching for sustainable solutions for deadstock

by Paul Maurice, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

For livestock farmers, it’s an unfortunate reality that sometimes, animals die on the farm from causes beyond human control. When that happens, it’s important that those animals are handled and disposed of responsibly and properly, and without impact on human or animal health, or the environment.

In Ontario, the livestock industry depends mostly on rendering – a highly regulated process that turns deadstock safely into new, useful products – as a solution, but increasing restrictions and challenges are making management challenging for both farmers and rendering companies.

That’s why the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) joined together with provincial livestock organizations to request help from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) to address the livestock mortality issue with both short and long-term options that will result in practical and sustainable solutions.

The study recommends the setting up a coordinating body, ideally led by an existing organization, to ensure ongoing development and implementation of solutions that respect geographic differences and the needs of the various livestock sectors in Ontario.

Continued investment in sustainable deadstock management is another recommendation, particularly ensuring ongoing, uninterrupted collection, and building a business case for the value deadstock could offer a circular economy, including to waste management companies.

The report also recommends a review of existing deadstock regulations to ensure they’re based in science, avoid overlap and allow the industry to take advantage of new opportunities presented by sustainable circular economies.

In the winter, OFA hosted a presentation of the initial study results to farmers and industry stakeholders as part of our annual Research Day. Following that, OFA also took part in a stakeholder meeting, where farm organizations, government, renderers, waste disposal companies and others discussed the study’s findings and concluded that a working group should be formed to work towards a more coordinated approach to deadstock management and develop next steps.

It should also be noted that the challenge of sustainable deadstock management is not unique to Ontario. The international scan conducted as part of the study showed that not only is there no single solution that works for all farmers or all livestock species, but countries around the world are looking for answers to the same problem.

Deadstock is a serious concern that our agri-food system needs to deal with collectively so that we can avoid impacts on human health and the environment and minimize risk to Ontario’s livestock herds.

Join us as we Celebrate North Grenville’s 25th Anniversary!

The 25th Anniversary Event will bridge the past, present, and future of our beloved Municipality, marking the significant moment when North Grenville was officially formed through the amalgamation of the Town of Kemptville and the Townships of Oxford-onRideau and South Gower.

Who Do You Know?

We are looking for all Past Councillors, Advisory Committee Members, Past Township and Municipal Staff, and more, from the Townships that created North Grenville.

Help us bring together as many of those who were part of the history as we can!

North Grenville’s 25th Anniversary Event

Date: Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 CR 44, Kemptville

A reception with light refreshments will follow the ceremony.

RSVP by email media@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-9569 ext. 184. Feel free to reach out for inquiries or special arrangements.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Celebrating Years

Kemptville and area Cadets participate in the Cadet Activity Program

United Way and 3M Canada Host Heartwarming Harvest Lunch

As dedicated advocates for community well-being, United Way Leeds & Grenville and 3M Canada are excited to announce the upcoming series of Harvest Lunch events, initiatives aimed at providing a wholesome meal to those in need within our community.

The aim is to provide 1,500 free lunches to the most vulnerable in our local community. As we embrace the bountiful harvest season, we recognize the importance of coming together to support our neighbours who are experiencing hunger.

The 3M Harvest Lunch is a heartfelt effort to provide nourishing food, foster connections, and raise awareness about the critical issue of food insecurity.

"We believe that every person in our community deserves access to nutritious food and a sense of belonging. The 3M Harvest Lunch is a symbol of unity and compassion where we can all contribute to making a difference," said Jane Hess, Interim Executive Director United Way Leeds and Grenville.

We extend our gratitude to our event partners for their generous support in making this event possible.

Help contribute to one of our events as we celebrate the spirit of giving and create lasting memories during this heartwarming occasion. Together, we can sow the seeds of change and cultivate a more nourished and

connected community. About United Way Leeds & Grenville United Way Leeds & Grenville is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving lives and creating lasting change within the community. Through collaborative partnerships, the organization addresses critical issues in areas such as mental health, food security, housing poverty, and financial stability. United Way Leeds & Grenville relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community leaders to drive meaningful impact and create a stronger, more resilient community. For more information, visit www.uwlg.org.

submitted by Lt(N) Ronald Holla

Canoeing, Canadian Armed Forces engagement, sports, and an aborted Treetop Trekking experience were among the highlights of two Cadet Activity Program (CAP) serials which took place at North Grenville Curling Club from August 1 to 14, 2023.

CAP 1 was for first-year cadets and involved four days of activities with cadets returning home each night while CAP 2 was for second-year cadets, lasting for seven days and including three days of Field Training Exercise at Cadet Training Centre Connaught. Air, Army, and Sea Cadet units from Brockville, Prescott, Smith Falls and Kemptville were included in this year's serials in Kemptville.

CAP provides unique summer experiences and opportunities for youth to engage with cadets from outside their own corps or squadron. They develop valuable life skills such as self-confidence, communication and teamwork while having fun and building lifelong friendships. These community-based summer programs also provide opportunities for cadets from all three elements to participate in shared activities, such as dynamic citizenship, fitness, team building, and CAF engagement activities linked to Cadet Program aims and objectives.

From September 14 to October 6, the 3M Harvest Lunch Team will work with six different United Way agencies and hold ten events across Leeds and Grenville to serve and deliver lunches being provided by local businesses. We're asking our community to show their local love and purchase a lunch. Every $10 ticket sold buys a meal for a neighbour in need in our community. Meals can be purchased on the uwlg.org website. Simply click the yellow 3M Harvest Lunch banner! Note: a tax receipt will be provided.

The 3M Harvest Lunch is a result of the dedicated efforts of numerous volunteers, local businesses, and community members who have come together to make a positive impact. By uniting around a shared goal, we hope to not only fill empty stomachs but also fill hearts with a sense of belonging and care.

Members of the Coast Guard Unit on Hill Island welcome CAP cadets to view their boat during a joint presentation with the OPP River Unit.

CAP cadets and their staff engage in a game called Octopus during one of the team building exercises in Riverside Park, Kemptville.

Cadet Ashley Carrigan of RCSCC Defiant (Kemptville) tries one of the challenges at the TreeTop Trekking on the Thousand Island Parkway.

OPP Constable Michael Carrigan welcomes CAP cadets on board the Marine Unit boat of the OPP River Unit during a joint tour with the Canadian Coast Guard.

emptville CAP2 cadets from the four feeder communities try out the obstacle course at Cadet Training Centre Connaught during the CAP2 Field Training Exercise. No cadet fell in the water.

The following photos provide a brief overview of some of the activities at this year's CAP serials.