Issue 36 2023 September 14 ND Times

CAPP fundraising for prison legal challenge

nounced. A survey published last year in the Times (conducted without the scientific method or quality controls) suggested that 77% of North Grenville residents oppose the project.

by Brandon Mayer

An upcoming concert in November will be hosted by the local group, Coalition Against the Proposed Prison (CAPP), with proceeds benefiting the legal challenge aimed at reversing the provincial government’s decision to build a correctional facility on the site of the former Kemptville College. The concert will be headlined by Mohawk singer-songwriter Logan Staats.

The legal challenge against the proposed prison was started over a year ago on August 15, 2022, led by locals who oppose the project for various reasons.

“The Notice of Application for a Judicial Review that [Victor Lachance and Kirk Albert] filed argues that the Ford government violated their own planning rules by ramming the Kemptville prison project through with-

out consultation with the community or municipal Council,” reads a release sent to the Times.

The fact that musician Logan Staats is Indigenous sheds some light on the reasoning behind his support for CAPP. “We don’t need another prison on stolen Indigenous land,” he said. “We need land back. That’s why I’m joining forces with CAPP to stop Ford’s Kemptville prison.” North Grenville is located on unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin Anishinaabe territory.

Trevor Alguire will be performing at the concert as well. “Small town and rural Ontario needs to be respected and our voices need to be heard”, said Trevor.

“I was shocked to hear that the Ford government didn’t consult with the residents of Kemptville before deciding to build a prison in their town. Paving over farmland

to build that prison is simply irresponsible when our province is losing more than 300 acres of farmland a day. I’m joining forces with CAPP to stop Ford’s Kemptville prison”.

The concert will be hosted by former CBC News anchor Adrian Harewood, who notes “As a journalist, I’ve covered the most pressing issues facing our communities. Today, many are concerned about the future use of agricultural and environmentally sensitive lands. We all want to make communities safer for everyone. I’m honoured to be hosting the Joining Forces concert that brings all these issues into focus”.

The proposed “Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex” (EOCC – commonly referred to as the “proposed prison” or “Kemptville prison”) has been very controversial since it was first an-

“Since the Judicial Review will determine if the Province’s actions were legal, it is in the interests of all residents, whether for or against the proposed prison, to ensure this matter is heard,” said Colleen Lynas from CAPP. “At this stage of the process, municipal Council can still do something; Kirk Albert and Victor Lachance publicly asked them to match the $20,000 raised in support of the judicial review and to undertake an injunction to prevent the Province from destroying the onsite buildings until the outcome of the review is known.”

Colleen notes that an important positive milestone was reached in CAPP’s campaign recently. “Based on Superior Court Justice Robert Smith’s decision on the Province’s motion to dismiss the Judicial Review, we are understandably optimistic. Justice Smith noted that the Province failed to adhere to its own Provincial Policy Statement and the Planning Act.”

MPP Steve Clark has been a target of Colleen’s criticism. Clark was well aware of the Council's aspirations to purchase the

Now that the kids are back to school, it's time to focus a little bit on yourself.

Great things are waiting for you just outside of your comfort zone.

We have something for everyone, all ages, and all ability levels. Email us at registration@getcronkd.ca to get started.

YOU'LL BE SO GLAD YOU DID!

cont'd from front page

earmarked land, and yet kept them and his constituents in the dark,” she noted. “He failed to ensure that his government met its obligations to both consult with the Municipality and abide by its own planning laws and policies.”

The current focus of the effort is fundraising, but CAPP recognizes that contributing financially is not feasible for everyone. There are other ways to help. “People can help us by liking and sharing our social media content where we are actively promoting the concert,” said Colleen. “For people who would like

to attend the concert but are concerned about driving into Ottawa, please email CAPP. There may be others attending who can offer a ride.”

The fundraising concert will take place on November 3 at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre in downtown Ottawa (290 Lisgar Street). All proceeds will support the prison legal challenge. The doors open at 6:30pm, and the concert starts at 7:30pm. There will be a cash bar, and artist and campaign merchandise available for purchase. Tickets went on sale on September 6, and are available at noprison.eventbrite.com.

Postcards for Ukraine

Postcards to the Front (Canada / Канада) will have a table with postcards and writing tools where you can write messages of support to Front Line Defenders in Ukraine.

If you have some, bring your own postcards to write.

Save the date! We’d love to meet you!

submitted by Postcards to the Front

Since Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, over 6,000 postcards, with messages of support, have been written by Ukrainians to their front line Defenders, all because of a need seen by three young women in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine: Tamara, Marichka and Ira. An Australian branch for Postcards to the Front was launched in March, 2023, followed by the Canadian branch, Postcards to the Front (Canada / Канада) in April. How do postcards make a difference?

Postcards are an easy, inexpensive and personal way that Canadians can show their support for Defenders at the front lines in Ukraine. It is lowtech communication that reaches the heart.

We collect written cards with messages of support and encouragement, send them in batches to home base in Ukraine where they are distributed in care packages to the front lines where Defenders, medics, mechanics, drivers, cooks, drivers – all per-

sonnel – receive postcards in their care packages.

We are told directly from Ukrainians on the front lines that these little bits of happy mail make a huge difference in the psychological well-being of the front line Defenders.

What can Canadians do?

Join us to write postcards at the following Merrickville events:

When? Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 9am3pm

What? Eastern Ontario Postcard, Postal History & Ephemera Show

Where? Merrickville, Ontario Community Centre, 106 Read Street, free admission & parking

We're holding another postcard-writing event on Sunday, September 24 at the Merrickville Legion (1-3pm), 229 Main Street West, Merrickville, Ontario.

If you can’t join us in Merrickville, we ask Canadians to write up to 5 postcards (therefore, you need only one 92 cent stamp on your envelope), filling the entire back side with printed, simple and brief messages of support – maybe a drawing – and send them in an envelope to us at:

Postcards to the Front P. O. Box 184 Millbrook, ON L0A 1G0

culverts

Git er done

by Brandon Mayer

Steve Clark has resigned as the Province’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, as was announced early last week. He will continue to serve as the local Member of Provincial Parliament.

I’ve met MPP Clark, and he’s very approachable and professional. His letter of resignation acknowledges that “mistakes” were made in the handling of the Greenbelt land swap arrangements. He also states in the letter, “I need to take responsibility for what has transpired”.

Politicians royally screw up across the country every week. We at least have to respect MPP Clark for owning his mistakes, since not many politicians ever extend that same courtesy to their constituents.

How do mistakes like these happen? Even though politicians tend to make the news only for their errors in judgement rather than for the good decisions they make, we need to keep in

mind that the overwhelming majority of politicians have good intentions. It’s usually only in the movies that people who want to destroy the world get pitted against those who want to save the world. In Canadian politics, most politicians have similar goals not rooted in world destruction – affordable life, safety and security, equity for all, etc. – but differ on the best route to take to get there.

Any Liberal, Progressive-Conservative, NDP or Green politician worth their salt would tell you that housing affordability is of the utmost importance. Frankly, I don’t know how some people manage to survive in this economy with the money they make and the rent they pay. Doug Ford’s PC government has been very vocal regarding the importance of housing. The “More Homes Built Faster Act” (which was itself controversial) is ample evidence of that. Choosing to develop parts of the Greenbelt was another big move. The obvious problem, however, is

Letters to the Editor

Open letter to His Majesty the King

September 1, 2023

RE: Petition to the Crown for a new Royal Proclamation

Dear Sir, I sincerely hope that this letter finds you in good health and in good spirits. I wish to offer my belated congratulations on your excellent Coronation ceremony in May and hope it was a day of great joy for you and your family.

I am writing to you as a citizen of the Anishnabek Nation, which is a sovereign nation of Turtle Island, which is known as Canada. I am writing to share with you my relief and satisfaction following the remarks made by Pope Francis on March 30 th, 2023, in which he offered an official repudiation of the “Doctrine of Discovery”.

I find this cause for celebration, and invite you to share in my happiness. The Pope’s remarks come

that public opinion on the matter was not sufficiently researched beforehand, and consultation was lacking.

Before I go any further, let me state clearly: I believe that Steve Clark made the right move by resigning from his Minister role. Mistakes were made. But from a sociological perspective, I can’t help but have a desire to question why so many ordinary people were able to find common rage in something that a sitting government could not.

My conclusion: publicity. No, I’m not suggesting that the PC government intentionally made a stupid move to proudly bask in the resulting negative attention. Rather, the PC government wants it to be very well known that it is doing something about the housing crisis, and this one particular move backfired spectacularly.

Ahead of the June 2022 provincial election, I interviewed Nolan Quinn, who is now the MPP in the SD&G political riding to the east, and Steve Clark’s PC col-

league. Questions I asked to MPP Quinn before he was elected were largely answered with the Doug Ford mantra, “get it done”. When asked how a PC government would address housing issues, rural school closures, healthcare shortfalls, and more, now-MPP Quinn would throw that familiar phrase back at me, stating that his government would “get it done”. Considering that the PCs have formed Ontario’s government with a majority since 2018, I couldn’t help but think at the time, “what stopped it from getting done in the last four years?”

“Get it done” reminds me of “git er done”, a redneck spin on the phrase that essentially means doing whatever it takes to achieve a goal, even if it isn’t the brightest idea. Is it possible that Doug Ford’s PCs are targeting a specific voter demographic? Conservatives tend to dislike excess government bureaucracy and the so-called “red tape” seen as getting in the way of a job well done. Certainly, that’s

what the “More Homes Built Faster Act” is all about, and I believe the “git er done” mindset was also behind the Greenbelt decision making process. Part of “git er done” is a need to be loud and proud. Never mind quiet governing… a government that has endeavoured to get it done, needs to show its loyal voters that it is indeed getting it done.

Is this mentality such a bad thing? Well notwithstanding the fact that “get it done” is a cheap catchphrase that offers absolutely no useful platform or policy information, I can admire a government that really does put the work in to live up to its promises. Even more so, I can respect a government that owns its mistakes. On Tuesday of last week, Doug Ford announced that a sweeping review will now take place regarding the lands in the Greenbelt. This, combined with MPP Clark’s resignation, shows that they’re listening. Could they have listened way earlier? Definitely, and they should have. But listening

now is better than not listening at all.

If I am going to turn this article into a general political comment, then let the comment be this: governments need to be accountable to those they serve. I don’t have a problem with political parties, but I refuse to be the fanboy of any particularl party, at any level of government, at any point in time. No matter a party’s platform, when an overwhelming majority of constituents speak the same words, those words need to be taken into account. Forgetting about the party system entirely, any candidate that gets my vote will get it because they remember that their ultimate role is to represent the interests of thousands of ordinary people.

Am I an Ontario PC supporter? No comment – see above. But MPP Clark’s resignation as Minister was the right move. Accountability above all.

at an important time in the colonial history of Canada, when together the original Nations and Canada have embarked on a journey of reconciliation between Indigenous Nations and the state. This announcement marks a hopeful and historical moment for us all.

Throughout the years, we have petitioned in many fora for the repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery and we recognize that this important announcement marks a pivotal time in our history. The rescinding of this Papal Bull is important to us in our quest for full recognition of our sovereignty, rights and title as original peoples from these lands. It is a first step to a new era where we expect to live in a fair, just and peaceful coexistence with Canadians.

In 1996, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (RCAP) issued another important call for significant change in the relationship

that Canada holds with Indigenous Peoples. RCAP recommended that the Sovereign issue a new Royal Proclamation which sets out the principle elements of a new relationship to signal the beginning of important changes in how Canada treats Indigenous Peoples. RCAP asked that this new Royal Proclamation invoke the Royal Proclamation of 1763, which codified and affirmed the “British Crown’s recognition of Aboriginal title and governance.”

RCAP envisioned a special celebratory gathering for the sole purpose of announcing this new Royal Proclamation which would set out greater clarity in the relationship that Canada has with the original Nations and would reconfirm Canada’s dedication to mutual respect and trust in the tradition of the Royal Proclamation of 1763.

It is fortuitous that the Pope made this announce-

ment in 2023, as we will be welcoming you as the new Sovereign and King of Canada marking a significant step forward in our history. With Canada’s adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and Canada’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, this is a judicious time to issue a new Royal Proclamation, 260 years following King George III.

I hope that with authentic aspirations for a better future for our children and grandchildren that you, with the government of Canada, and in partnership with Indigenous leaders of the various original Nations, will consider this as a unique opportunity. Please consider this request to take the next step into a new era of better relations with Indigenous peoples to truly walk side by side in mutual respect by beginning the statecraft required to make a new Royal

Proclamation a real and meaningful document that will guide the Government of Canada..

With great respect, Signed, Lorraine

Rekmans, Algonquin Territory

Dear Editor, Steve Clark bowed to the inevitable and resigned as Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. This is a step towards accountability, but Ford’s Greenbelt scandal is far from over. A corrupt process led to a corrupt decision to remove protections from Greenbelt lands with a select few developers standing to profit by $8.3 billion. The people of Ontario deserve honest answers as to how a corrupt process was allowed to happen. Ontario Greens continue to call for the protection of all Greenbelt lands and for an independent, public inquiry into Ford’s $8.3 billion Greenbelt giveaway.

The complete lack of process and oversight revealed within Clark’s ministry by the Auditor General and Integrity Commissioner reports must raise questions over other decisions made under Clark’s tenure as Minister, not least the decision to build a new prison in Kemptville. Ontario Greens remain opposed to this plan, and continue to support grassroots groups CAPP and JOG in their campaign for a judicial review into this decision.

Steve Gabell

UNITED COUNTIES OF LEEDS AND GRENVILLE COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL SERVICES DIVISION APPLICATIONS FOR QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS

The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, Community and Social Services Division, is accepting applications from qualified contractors in all trades who wish to be included on the Qualified Contractors list for available work within our public housing portfolio. Work may be required at the following locations:

• Brockville • Cardinal • Gananoque • Kemptville

• Lansdowne • Mallorytown • Merrickville

• Prescott • Spencerville • Westport

Please be advised that the minimum liability insurance and automobile liability insurance coverage is $2,000,000. Copies of insurance, WHMIS certification, WSIB Clearance Certificate, and current trade certificates must be included with your application.

Applications are available through the Bids & Tenders

Portal found at:

https://leedsgrenville.bidsandtenders.ca

Or by contacting Tammy Herbison, Housing Administrative Assistant at 613-342-3840, extension 2122

If you have any questions, please contact the office of the undersigned.

Chris Morrison Manager

Housing Department

United Counties of Leeds and Grenville

25 Central Avenue West

Brockville, ON K6V 4N6

Phone: 613-342-3840 x 2328

Fax: 833-775-0561

Public Health wants to hear from you!

submitted by LGLD Health Unit

The Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is seeking input into the development of its upcoming strategic plan. The plan is being developed this fall/winter and will set the direction for how the Health Unit does its work for the coming years.

The Health Unit has hired the consulting company People Minded Business (PMB) to steer the development of a multi-year plan.

Partner organizations will be contacted directly by Health Unit staff, and the residents of Leeds Grenville and Lanark counties and clients of the Health Unit are being asked for

Federal government releases Online News Act regulations courtesy of News Media Canada

The federal government released the draft regulations for the Online News Act late last week. The regulations will be open for a 30-day public consultation period.

The draft regulations provide some additional clarity on how the Online News Act, which received Royal Assent earlier this summer, will work to level the playing field between news publishers and tech platforms.

Based on available data, the Online News Act could result in Google having to pay news publishers $172 million per year. Facebook’s parent company Meta would be responsible for about $62 million to comply with the terms of the legislation.

The regulations also describe minimum thresholds that tech platforms must achieve in order to receive any exemptions.

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.

• 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

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

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

• Active Transportation Advisory Committee – Wednesday, September 20 at 5:00 p.m

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Engineering Co-op Student

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill one full-time (Fall semester) positions of Engineering Coop Student. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualifications in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 15th, 2023.

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)

their input through a community and client survey link below to understand their needs and priorities. Do you see anything going on in your community that you think the Health Unit should be paying attention to? What about opportunities to improve client service or community programs?

Add your thoughts to a survey and they will be considered when developing the strategic plan.

A link to the confidential, anonymous survey can be found here: https:// www.surveymonkey. com/r/LGLDHU_Client_Survey. The deadline to complete the survey is September 22, 2023.

There will also be an opportunity to provide input by virtual focus groups that will be held in

early October. Dates and times will be communicated when they are set.

If you would like to provide input but have no access to a computer, you can pick up a paper copy in any Health Unit office or service site and our staff will assist you by collecting your survey in a sealed envelope that will go directly to the PMB consultants for confidential collation with the online results.

For more information about the Health Unit and its services, visit www. healthunit.org.

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. Tax bills are due on September 29, 2023. Payments can be made in person by cash or debit. Credit card payments are only accepted when paying online through the North Grenville website.

NORTH GRENVILLE’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT

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. Join us as we celebrate North Grenville’s 25th Anniversary on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the North Grenville Municipal Centre located at 285 County Road 44, Kemptville. A reception with light refreshments will follow the ceremony.

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.

Big apple, little apple

at me for not speeding up to bridge a gap of about three car lengths in a street that was moving at a snail’s pace anyway, I couldn’t understand it. “What’s the point?” I thought… I would just be hurrying up to stop again. But then I realized, in a city where traffic congestion means that every green light may only offer the opportunity for a few cars to proceed, it’s actually quite selfish to block the path for those trying to get through the intersection behind you. Every unwritten rule has its purpose.

narrowly escaped being “jumped” on two separate occasions, and in a third, our entire family was targeted in our vehicle after my wife didn’t let someone cut her off. It was scary indeed. We have since decided that NYC prices aren’t so bad!

It seems that after every rendition of my own travel musings, I reach the same conclusion: visiting other places is great, but there is no place like home!

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

by Brandon Mayer

“There are many apples on the tree, but only one big apple.” So the old saying goes in show business, and the reason why New York City – the largest city in the USA, home to 1 out of every 38 Americans – is sometimes called “the Big Apple”.

Late last month and early this month, my family and I took a bite out of the Big Apple and visited NYC for a week.

Being a lifelong rural dweller currently living in a town of about 500 people (which is in fact larger than the town I grew up in), visiting a city of almost 9 million people was quite something. It’s a different way of life, but it works… well, most of the time.

Our first time in Manhattan, my wife pulled over the car and had me switch with her within the first 10 minutes. I was the designated NYC driver from that point on. My wife cited the fact that NYC drivers are “mean” as her reasoning. While I wouldn’t dare disagree with my wife in print,

I think that I can safely shed some light on what we learned about the pace of NYC.

Much like we would get angry at big city drivers travelling down our county roads, blowing past tractors and tossing litter into cornfields, NYC drivers have a very low tolerance for those who add to the already nearconstant congestion in their packed streets. I learned some things: 1) Don’t bother signaling, just merge. 2) Never wait for a pedestrian to fully cross the street before proceeding, if there are a few inches of space, that’s good enough. 3) People riding bicycles can do so opposite to the direction of traffic and even diagonally across intersections – deal with it or go home! 4) In reference to rule #1, if someone is merging, let them merge. 5) Stay right on the backside of any car in front of you, even if you anticipate you will just end up waiting with them at the next red light. 6) Honk your horn incessantly.

As much as these unwritten rules are not what I’m used to, I understand them. A different pace requires different rules. The first time someone honked

We saw all of the places that one would hope to see in NYC – the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the High Line, the 9/11 Memorial, Times Square, and more. These are things for which pictures just don’t tell the whole story. You need to see it for yourself. We met lots of interesting people and adjusted relatively quickly to the pace, though even the kids had sore legs from all the walking which NYC residents are no doubt well accustomed to. We even got a couple of opportunities to ride in a classic NYC yellow taxi and the underground subway system.

Besides NYC, we also had a few experiences in another US state – New Jersey (shall we call it “Little Apple”?). This is where our hotel was located, just 15 minutes from Manhattan in good traffic, accessible via the Lincoln Tunnel which lies some 97 feet below the Hudson River. New Jersey was able to offer something that NYC could not – a hotel swimming pool and queen sized beds at an affordable price. Unfortunately, there were points when it also offered more than we bargained for. I felt that I

Forecast: Ontario corn, soybean yield record

courtesy of Farmers Forum

The prognosticators with the Great Ontario Yield Tour are projecting record corn and soybean yields in Ontario this year. Based on data collected during the 8th annual Tour, Ontario growers will have an average yield of 203 bu/ac for corn and 53.5 bu/ac for soybeans.

Oxford, Brant, Wentworth, Haldimand-Norfolk and Niagara are projected to lead the Province with a corn yield of 213 bu/ac, but with a lower soybean yield of 51.9 bu/ac. The rest of Southwestern Ontario is projected to yield a corn crop of more than 205 bu/ac and soybeans of 54 bu/ac. Eastern Ontario’s corn yield is predicted to be 197 bu/ac, but the east is projected to lead the Province with a soybean yield of 55.9 bu/ac.

“Overall, everything looks good,” said Bryce Ruppert, Maizex territory manager for Western Ontario’s Southeast. “But we still need a good September,” noting that crop maturity “is a little bit behind.”

OMAFRA soybean specialist Horst Bohner agreed, saying that the start of the soybean harvest is likely to be pushed into October as that crop was 10 to 12 days behind the average as of September 6. Corn, however, was about 25 days behind, he said. Blame it on more overcast days this summer and a cooler than average August. Crop heat units are below average, he said.

Statistics Canada is not as bullish, predicting an Ontario corn yield of 169.7 bu/ac and a soybean yield of 50.5 bu/ac.

Birds of Prey

Sat, Sept 16th 11:00 & 2:00

Ferguson Forest Arboretum

$5 suggested donation

Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre

Kemptville District Hospital welcomes a new specialist

joining and expanding the KDH team to enhance the gynecological services provided to the local community and the Ottawa region.”

The new Gynecology Clinic is the natural next step following the introduction of gynecology surgery at KDH in the fall of 2022 under the leadership of Dr. Sony Singh, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at The Ottawa Hospital (TOH), and KDH’s Surgical Leadership team.

Who has the most dangerous job?

with infections.

submitted by Jenny Read Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) is pleased to announce a new specialist providing services in its outpatient clinics: Dr. Tammy LeRiche, a highly respected obstetrician/gynecologist, has recently established a Gynecology Clinic.

Dr. LeRiche will be seeing patients from the local communities KDH serves as well as those undergoing Gynecology surgery at KDH. She will be providing services related to contraception, fibroids, polyps, dysfunctional bleeding/menstrual irregularities, post-menopausal bleeding, and ovarian/adnexal masses.

Dr. Tammy LeRiche earned an undergraduate degree in Science at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia before earning a Master of Science degree in Bioanalytical Chemistry at the University of Ottawa. She worked as a research chemist for three years before deciding to go to medical school. Dr. LeRiche completed medical

school at the University of Ottawa, graduating in 2007. She subsequently finished her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Ottawa in 2012.

Shortly thereafter, Dr. LeRiche began practice in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Brockville General Hospital (BGH); through its affiliation with Queen’s University she was appointed assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Dr. LeRiche was head of the Women's and Children's Program at BGH for a number of years and received several teaching awards for her mentorship with medical students and residents.

“KDH is very fortunate to have Dr. Tammy LeRiche join us as a surgeon and program lead for gynecology services, said Dr. Colin Sentongo, KDH’s Chief of Staff.

“She is an accomplished surgeon who has led the way to develop and enhance surgical services in ORs and community hospitals such as KDH. “

Dr. LeRiche responded, stating, “I am excited to be

“With the new Gynecology Clinic and gynecology surgery, we continue to expand our strategic partnership with The Ottawa Hospital to help us achieve our longer term goal of bringing back Gynecology and Women’s Health services to the communities we serve,” explained Frank Vassallo, KDH’s CEO. Vassallo was referring to the hospital’s former Obstetrics program, which closed in 1990.

While KDH’s Gynecology Clinic will see a variety of patients and patient conditions, KDH will strive to build capacity for laparoscopic hysterectomies (on both an inpatient and day surgery basis), which will build upon the successful day surgery laparoscopic hysterectomy service model that Dr. LeRiche established in Brockville. Planned investments in additional equipment for the operating rooms and outpatient clinics will increase surgical capacity and offer services closer to home.

Physicians may fax referrals for the new Gynecology Clinic to 613-258-4997.

We often advise readers not to be foolish – not with your health, money, relationships, or other vital aspects of life. Some risks are unavoidable, like crossing a busy intersection. Yet there’s little sense in choosing a career as a test pilot if you want to live to 100. Now, new research suggests we might have that wrong. Dangerous jobs with a high safety consciousness may be the better bet!

What are some of the most dangerous jobs? Ambulance workers are near the top of the list. People working at skiing facilities and correctional institutions are in the top ten. So are couriers and people in water transportation jobs.

Leave it to personal injury lawyers to know the facts. What does one law firm say is the most dangerous profession? To our great surprise, veterinarians claim the title for the most dangerous job in North America! But how could Fido, who loves you more than you love yourself, and who would never betray you, be such a hazard?

found that over half of veterinarians in a two-year period reported work-related injuries, with nearly eight percent requiring hospitalization. Animalinflicted injuries are a risk of the job, but there is more trouble in the profession.

It is a sad fact that veterinarians, who give new life to animals in distress, are two and a half times more likely than the general public to die by suicide.

The organization, Not One More Vet, reports that one in ten have contemplated suicide. In the UK, a study found that nearly 70% of vets have lost a colleague to suicide. In Australia, sixty percent of vets have sought professional help with their mental wellbeing.

There’s another cruel irony. It’s exhausting to get into the profession. Would-be vets need to be academic superstars and ruthless competitors in the high-stakes quest for a position in veterinary schools. If lucky enough to get in, they can count on spending a lot of money on tuition.

In California, a proposed bill would allow vets to initiate care for animals using telehealth. There are fierce debates about the merits of such an approach. But for the sick or injured dog who needs a consultation but would prefer death than a visit to the vet’s clinic, this might be a sensible solution. Plus, Fido won’t bite a computer monitor. Will it lead to inappropriate treatments and medication for pets? Will it ease the burdens of driving animals to clinics for minor problems? This remains to be seen. But it sounds like good common sense to us.

Regarding career choices, what should we advise the people who we love? Accountants take the prize for the job with the lowest risk of injury. Number crunching might not be sexy, but it is, apparently, safe.

We should have given it more thought. Fido has sharp teeth and a powerful jaw. Inserting a needle can unleash these weapons. Woe be the veterinarian working on larger, more unpredictable animals.

A study by the US National Institutes of Health

What’s driving these horrendous statistics? The industry, it seems, has some issues. Vets can often work 12-hour shifts, frequently responding to emergencies at all hours and lacking the back-up support of other medical professions. Building a practice can involve years of low earnings. It’s physically demanding work, with long hours standing and restraining agitated animals. Even if the animals behave, human clients can be abusive, contributing to chronic stress on the job. Vets also risk exposure to waste anesthetic gases, radiation, and airborne contaminants. They see plenty of close-up work

Seasonal vaccinations information

submitted by LGLD Health Unit

The Health Unit has been receiving a number of calls and emails about fall COVID-19 boosters and Influenza vaccinations. Information to clarify what is available and where to get seasonal immunizations has been updated on the Health Unit website at: Immunization - Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

This information will be updated once more details are received from the ministry of Health. The Health Unit will use all available ways to make sure that the public know how and when to get their

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@ docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @docgiff and @ diana_gifford_jones. immunizations.

Influenza (Flu Shots)

As in previous years, Influenza vaccine will be available at your local pharmacy or health care provider in late October/ early November.

More information about Influenza and how you can protect yourself is found here: https://healthunit.org/health-information/infectious-diseases/ influenza/

COVID 19 vaccines (and Fall Boosters)

The Health Unit has changed its approach to providing COVID-19 vaccine. We no longer have the capacity to run large community clinics. In-

stead, we will provide COVID vaccines to priority groups who may not be able to get immunized elsewhere. We will have appointments available at our Health Unit clinics for children under 12 and those over 12 who are unable to receive an mRNA vaccine. We are directing all others to go to their primary care provider or local pharmacy.

Our clinics provide other vaccinations for adults and children including school catch up vaccinations.

You can call your local pharmacy to see when they are receiving vaccine for the fall.

If you or your child needs initial COVID-19 vaccine doses (not booster doses), please call the Health Unit to discuss options at 1 800 660 5853. There will be a new version of the COVID vaccine made available in the coming months at pharmacies and primary care providers. As with any new version of the COVID vaccine, it will be distributed to the highest risk groups first, including Long Term Care residents and others with similar health challenges to protect those most vulnerable.

Dr. LaRiche stands outside the entrance to the Clinics at KDH.

Council meeting takes place in South Gower Park

by Brandon Mayer

As part of an ongoing tradition celebrating the Municipality’s 25th anniversary, the September 5 Council meeting took place outdoors in South Gower Park, instead of the usual setting in the North Grenville Municipal Centre in Kemptville. Over the last several months, Council has visited several places for meetings outside of their usual location, celebrating North Grenville as a whole.

Following the normal introductions, the meeting opened with a presentation from Steven Paterson regarding the upcoming Terry Fox Run that will be held locally this Sunday, September 17.

Next, as part of the ongoing amalgamation anniversary celebrations, Dr. David Shanahan gave a brief talk on the history of the former South Gower Township, explaining that it had been in existence for nearly 200 years prior to being amalgamated into North Grenville. David explained that the area was and is the traditional home of the Anishinaabe nation. He

further explained that even though the former Oxfordon-Rideau Township was surveyed first, South Gower was settled first since it was accessible. Oxford-on-Rideau was then “colonized” – in a manner of speaking – by several important figures who had settled in South Gower.

A video shown at the Council meeting, taken 70 years ago in South Gower, showed locals settling down for a feast after a harvest. David talked throughout the video, explaining the historical significance of what was being shown. “This was a time when the community was very closely knit,” said David. “It was one of those times when South Gower had a real identity, and people knew where they were from in that regard.” The video also shows a woman storing produce in mason jars for the winter, showing how self-sufficient the community was. The video ends with snippets of a party, showing how young South Gower locals of the day enjoyed their free time.

Another video shown at the meeting gave a glimpse into the Town of Heckston decades ago, depicting a

town that is both “familiar and not”, as David pointed out. Finally, a video with some familiar scenes from Kemptville – though in a very different era – was shown, while David pointed out all of the well-known landmarks and discussed the historical significance of the scenes.

Following David’s presentation, Lorraine Rekmans spoke to Council on behalf of the Indigenous Advisory Circle to discuss some recommended changes to the terms of reference in the Municipality’s declaration of allyship with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, Lorraine pointed out that Indigenous locals want to have relationships with their neighbours, not just with the Municipality, and so a wording adjustment to reflect this would be appropriate. Lorraine also insisted that a motion of support for the allyship between Indigenous peoples and North Grenville be passed during the meeting, and that the statement announcing such be read publicly at two upcoming Council meetings.

“We’re living in a politically charged world,” said Lorraine. “There are

politicians who make these statements, and I think it’s important that they’re meaningful… that Canadians understand that we as Indigenous people are against the wall in these days. Your allyship would be incredibly meaningful and would demonstrate leadership to other municipalities.” The motion passed after some questions posed by members of Council were answered.

The next item of business was the declaration of September 18-24 as Rail Safety Week in the Municipality, with Mayor Peckford citing a near miss at a local railway crossing this year as a good example of why a rail safety campaign is important. Council also moved to proclaim the month of September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month locally.

Other routine business was put before Council for information and discussion before the meeting ended after 1 hour and 12 minutes. The full meeting – including the historical video clips and corresponding narration –can be viewed at https:// youtu.be/nDNu9NSbgME? si=uU1GqjjjVm8IQ4Qf.

73’s pre-season back to back with the Bears fall short

the third 3 to 2.

The Bears came out strong within the first minute at :19 when Trevor Faucher with helpers from Wasmer and Stevenson put it past Jacob Biron. Goalie changed for the 73’s as Derrick Champagne replaced the starting stopper at 7:02.

for extra attacker only to have it snuffed out by a questionable call at 19:45 to give Smiths Falls 3 - 2 victory.

The Bears outshot the 73’s 31 to 26 with 1/1 PP and Kemptville ½ PP.

Kemptville

on Friday, September 15 for a 7:30 start. See you around the boards….hockey with EDGE?

by the sportsguy

Your 73’s motored into the Den of the Bears of Smiths Falls on Friday evening for their first pre - season contest only to be used for fodder with a three goal feeding frenzy in the last twenty to be mauled 5 to 2.

Initial period the 73’s suffered a loss of their stopper Matthew Weiss with a lower body injury at the 8:08 mark to bring in Jacob Biron between the pegs. Smiths Falls struck first when Aiden Conroy assisted from McIntosh and Brown to put it behind Jacob Biron at 12:16.

Kemptville countered

with a combination from Loreto to Ben Kozyra to beat Christian Lynch at 5:33 to open the second stanza, Man advantage for the Bears as Ouellette with Faucher to Jesse Lumsden PPG in the slot for the tie breaker at 16:24. The 73’s evened it up at 17:15 after O’Doherty criss crossed with Logue to find Tyler Melvin in the umbrella to pull the trigger between the posts.

The wheels fell off for Kemptville in the final twenty as the Bears got their winning goal from Faucher to Shaymus Stevenson at :54 and then the insurance came at 5:26

from Tyson Parker with Hamady and Paquette assisting. Bleeding ceased after Martin found Jackson Heron at 17:48 to post a 5 to 2 win.

Kemptville were outgunned 37 to 21 SOG with Smiths Falls ⅓ PP and their opponent failing to capitalize with two attempts.

Coach Shawn Fensell has confidence in their nucleus and feels that overall the game was another step in implementing a lot of new structure and will take time to get everyone on the same page at game speed.

Smiths Falls Bears in the 73’s barn for a Sunday matinee to take the win in

Kemptville initiated a comeback with Fennell holding it in, back to Thomas on the line and Matthew O’Doherty rifled the garbage top shelf past Dawson Labre at 3:42 to start the second session with one all tie. Thomas with extra man sprang Trottier up the wing across to Ty Whyte PPG on the doorstep to hammer it home at 14:51 for the tie breaker.

Smiths Falls swarmed the net with Jackson Heron with assists from Dimaline and Morganti pushing it across the line at 10:45 to even it up in the last twenty. Jackson Heron PPG with helpers from Wasmer with Hamady on a similar play to push in the Bears winning goal at 12:39. Kemptville pulled their stopper at 19:20

faces the Ottawa Junior Senators on home ice

Too much of opponents stick...Sydney Loreto breaks through without success during Sunday matinee with Smiths Falls Bears.

Senior Times

Dancing into Wellness: Seniors stay active through local dance and fitness class

tional health.

Embracing the Joy of Movement

As we age, it's essential that we prioritize our physical and mental well-being. One way seniors in our community are achieving this is by participating in local dance and fitness classes right here at The Workshop Dance Studio. These classes aren't just about moving to music; they are about embracing a vibrant, healthy lifestyle that promotes longevity, social interaction, and overall well-being.

Physical Health

Physical activity is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, and it's never too late to start. Seniors who engage in dance classes like the new Sitting Tap Dancing class for beginners, or the Learn To Line Dance workshops or the Mobility Fitness classes experience a wide range of physical health benefits. Regular movement improves flexibility, strength, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Additionally, dance classes and fitness classes provide an excellent cardiovascular workout, helping seniors maintain a healthy heart and lungs.

At The Workshop Dance Studio, our certified

instructors tailor classes to suit the needs and abilities of seniors. Whether it's lowimpact dance or chair-based exercises, our programs offer a safe and enjoyable way to stay active and maintain muscle mass, ensuring that seniors can continue to perform daily tasks with ease.

Mental Well-being

Staying active isn't just about physical health; it also has a profound impact on mental well-being. Seniors who participate in any local dance and fitness classes often report improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive function. Dancing engages the mind as participants learn new steps and routines, providing a stimulating mental workout.

Moreover, group classes at The Workshop Dance Studio offer a sense of community and social connection that is invaluable for seniors. Loneliness and isolation can be significant concerns for older adults, but our classes provide an opportunity to make new friends, share experiences, and build a support network. The camaraderie fostered in these classes goes a long way in promoting mental and emo-

One of the most remarkable aspects of our dance and fitness classes for seniors is the sheer joy it brings. Exercise can sometimes feel like a chore, but our classes are different. It's a celebration of movement, an expression of happiness, and an opportunity to let loose and have fun. Many of our senior participants tell us that they look forward to their classes at The Workshop Dance Studio because it's a chance to be in the moment, feel great, and simply enjoy themselves.

The Power of Music

Music is a universal language that transcends age, and it plays a central role in our classes. Whether it's the lively rhythms of a dance class or the festive fitness beats of a Mobility Class, music enhances the overall experience. Research has shown that music can have a profound impact on mood, memory, and motivation, making it an essential element of our classes for seniors.

Join the Movement

If you're a senior in our community looking to stay active and embrace a healthier, happier lifestyle, we invite you to join us at The Workshop Dance Studio. Our dedicated team of instructors is passionate about helping you achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Whether you want to start dancing or just keep moving, there's a class for you.

In conclusion, staying active through our local dance and fitness classes at The Workshop Dance Studio offers seniors an array of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. It's a

wonderful way to improve physical health, boost mood, and connect with others in our vibrant community. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to dance your way to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Join us at The Workshop Dance Studio on Sanders Street in Kemptville and experience the transformative power of movement. Your journey towards better health and happiness starts here.

Visit our website www. theworkshopdancestudio. com or call Nancy at 613868-9062 for more information.

Rachel S. Jansen, B.Comm., J.D. Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.

OFA, industry stakeholders connect with municipalities over

common interests

tify costs and benefi ts of various land use types and support those municipalities in developing growth strategies that can provide a high quality of life for residents while also protecting natural resources.

Planning for housing affordability and long-term land use

Statement by Mayor Peckford on Firefighters’ National Memorial Day

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

Mayor Nancy Peckford issued the following statement on Firefighters' National Memorial Day:

On Sunday, September 10, 2023, the Municipality of North Grenville recognized Firefighters’ National Memorial Day, a day to pay tribute to the firefighters who risk their lives keeping Canadians safe. It is also a day to honour and remember those firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

by Crispin Colvin, Vice President, OFA

This year’s Association of Municipalities of Ontario annual general meeting and conference attracted over 2,500 municipal leaders, government officials, civil servants as well as other interested stakeholders. Among those other stakeholders were a wide range of companies and organizations which are connected to municipalities in some capacity – including the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).

The event is one of the most important public policy conferences in Ontario, and as a farmer and former municipal leader, I was pleased to be part of the OFA delegation and have this opportunity to engage with participants at the event.

OFA advocates on behalf of farmers on a wide range of issues, from rural health care and energy policy to land use, economic development and more. Building relationships with related sectors can help deepen our understanding of those issues and lets us do a better job at advocating for the agriculture industry and rural communities.

For example, I had the chance to meet delegates who aren’t from municipalities but who have strong interests in municipal affairs, such as natural gas supplier Enbridge and the Independent Electricity System Operator which deliver key services across our provincial electrical sector.

Through our advocacy work, OFA interacts with government officials, particularly at the provincial and federal levels, on an ongoing basis but this conference provides a unique opportunity to get to know many municipal representatives from across

the Province that we don’t otherwise have the chance to meet.

Many municipal delegates come from large, urban communities with little direct connection to agriculture and food production, for example, and are unaware of the many issues we have in common, from infrastructure, housing and healthcare to jobs, the food supply chain, and budgetary constraints.

They’re also often surprised at the level of farmland loss in Ontario – an average of 319 acres a day according to the latest census data – and interested in knowing more about how critical it is to all of our futures that we maintain our ability to produce our own food, fuel, fibre and flowers as much as possible.

Here are some of the main issues we were able to discuss with AMO delegates where we share common goals that support our collective economic growth:

Improving rural infrastructure and services

Ontario’s rural economy relies on well-functioning roads, bridges and drainage to support the production and transportation of goods and services. Investments into transportation infrastructure, access to affordable energy, broadband and increased social services — including schools, healthcare and community centres — will keep businesses in rural communities as well as encourage newcomers to establish themselves.

The OFA can be a key partner working with government and local municipalities to identify ways and means to prioritize, build and maintain critical infrastructure that is needed in our communities. For example, OFA has partnered with six rural municipalities on Cost of Community Services studies to help iden-

We support the government’s goals of building more homes over the next 10 years to address the housing supply shortage that affects all Ontarians including the agriculture sector. Our focus has been to encourage an approach that balances increased housing and economic growth with ensuring that we are protecting the agricultural and environmental lands we depend on for local food production and healthy communities.

Solutions include intensification of residential development within the existing urban footprint in the context of complete and liveable communities and supporting the distribution of economic development province wide.

Strengthening economic development and community health

OFA sees tremendous value in developing and encouraging policies that enable direct farm marketing and agritourism to improve urban and rural connections and provide healthy outdoor activities and access to local food for families.

Last year, OFA conducted a local food and agritourism survey, where 38% of respondents noted that although they don’t currently offer agritourism experiences on their farms, they would consider doing so.

OFA partnered with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario on the 2022 State of the Ontario Tourism Industry Report. The report provides several recommendations for all three levels of government covering topics such as the economy, labour, infrastructure, and the future of (agri)tourism.

The Government of Canada established Firefighters’ National Memorial Day in 2017. This day is recognized annually on the second Sunday of September to commemorate the courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment of all Firefighters who, whether current or past, have stepped up time and again to serve our community.

We take this opportunity to honour the over 300 firefighters who died in the deadly terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 in New York City. We also want to honour and recognize the firefighters who died this past spring during the flooding in Quebec, and battling the wildfires this summer in BC and the Northwest Territories.

On behalf of Council and our community, I also want to thank our volunteer firefighters closer to home in North Grenville for their dedication and service.

We understand the physical and mental toll on firefighters, and the stress borne by their families. We also know that some make the ultimate sacrifice with their lives in the line of duty.

I invite all residents to take a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifice of these brave individuals throughout the country and the world.

Given the significance of the occasion and to honour their dedication to public safety, flags at the Municipal Centre and Fire Hall were lowered to half-mast.

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

It will soon be time to dig up the spuds. Depending on the variety you have selected, you’ll get different sizes. For today’s recipe, you want to pick out some small and medium ones. Eating “new” potatoes is a huge treat and so is this Warm Potato Salad. It is lifted out of the ordinary with the dressing you will make and is a French technique for creating a great dish.

Warm Potato Salad

Ingredients

2 pounds of your smaller or medium potatoes

3 green onions, finely chopped

2 tablespoons of sweet Octoberfest mustard

2 tablespoon lemon juice

6 tablespoons olive oil

A splash of white wine

A shake of Worcestershire Sauce

3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon of black pepper

1 tablespoon of oregano flakes

3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation

1. Cook your potatoes as usual, drain them and slice them into quarters

2. Mix all of the other ingredients in a salad bowl except the pepper, oregano and Parmesan

3. Add the potatoes delicately, coating them with dressing but not breaking them up 4. Sprinkle with the pepper, oregano and Parm

5. Serve warm right away to accompany poultry, beef, pork or vegetarian dishes.

It is always great to hear from you as you try out these recipes. Please don’t forget to send me some of your own favourites. Best, as always from: pcormier@ ranaprocess.com.

FOR SALE

TV Stand, walker, exercise bike. Contact Terry @ 613-294-2590

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.

CROSSWORD

GARAGE SALE

Saturday, Sept. 16 8am to noon. 23 Meadowglen Circle, Kemptville

Sept 28 &29. 9am-3pm. 457 Gladstone St, Winchester. Household items, collectables, rain barrel, toys and Christmas items

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

Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month commencing September 28. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families.

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

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

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 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 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"

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.

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy Medium Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

Baldwin's Birds Let’s celebrate North Grenville's 25th anniversary!

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

This year marks the 25th anniversary of North Grenville as an amalgamated municipality, born out of the infamous ice storm of 1998 when the historic Oxford-on-Rideau Township, Town of Kemptville and Township of South Gower were merged through the Province of Ontario to create the Municipality of North Grenville.

To celebrate this notable quarter-century milestone, Council has been hosting its monthly Council meetings in the historic hamlets of Oxford Mills, Bishop’s Mills, South Gower and Burritts Rapids.

A culminating event to celebrate 25 years together is being planned in Kemptville on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. During the event, former mayors, elected officials, and community leaders will be recognised.

Delightful Friends

My! How quiet it is in the garden on this bright and hot, late summer day. There seems to be no real activity going on in the backyard or around the feeders at the front of the house. However, that doesn't mean to say that we are getting no birds at all. My hanging feeders are still attracting our regular summer visitors and delightful feathered friends at least for the moment, although at least one of them will be making its long migratory flight south in the next week or so. Of course, I am referring to the intriguing female Ruby Throated Hummingbird which doesn't have a ruby throat, but sports a lovely white breasted one, as can be seen if she happens to hover right in front of you. She has been our summer resident for the past three or four months, delighting us with her presence both at the feeder and by perching in our nearby pine tree. She has been our stalwart representative for this year's visiting Hummingbirds and will be missed when she disappears soon.

Our other delightful friend, or should I say friends, have been and still will be throughout the year, are the Woodpeckers, Nuthatches and the Goldfinches which will gradually lose their beautiful yellow plumage to adopt their duller winter one. The Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers will maintain their colours, so all is not lost for the foreseeable future when winter takes a hold once again! Until this takes place, we must enjoy them as they appear to us today, and take in their lovely colours whilst they are still residing with us here.

I haven't ventured out to any of the local riverside settings to view any of the birds that spend their summers here whilst their fish and other food supplies are readily available and can be caught easily. It isn't very long since the Osprey broods have exited their lofty perches alongside some of our highways, so I imagine that they can still be spotted hunting somewhere along the rivers as well as the long necked Blue Herons. It remains to be seen how our recent continuation of very hot weather will affect our visiting wildlife, but I hope that it isn't detrimental to their survival, should it be very prolonged, and that they can adapt accordingly, and then migrate successfully afterwards. We, ourselves, cannot all do that so we have to remain content with what Mother Nature gives us, so please do so, but stay safe and well.

Cheers, John

Baldwin

“As we embrace this milestone, Council invites all members of the community to come together and honour the collective contributions that have shaped North Grenville's character and enduring spirit of generosity,” highlighted Mayor Nancy Peckford. “We look forward to celebrating the past and envisioning the future of North Grenville — a community that remains deeply proud of our rural roots as we continue to grow and thrive.”

Celebrating North Grenville’s 25th Anniversary - Event Details

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 three townships.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

6:30 – 8:30 pm

North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 CR 44, Kemptville

The evening promises a stroll down memory lane, accompanied by special guests, speakers, and music. A highlight of the event will be the ceremonial presentation of a Mayoral Chain of Office to past and present mayors of North Grenville. This ceremonial chain will be worn in formal settings by present and future mayors as a testament to our incredible history and shared journey together.

A reception with light refreshments will follow the ceremony, offering a chance to reconnect and enjoy local cuisine.

Who Do You Know – Calling all past councillors, committee members and staff

To help us celebrate 25 years, the Municipality is issuing an open invitation to all past councillors, advisory committee members, past township and municipal staff, and community leaders from not only North Grenville, but also from the Town of Kemptville and the Townships of Oxford-on-Rideau, and South Gower to join us on Tuesday, September 26th for the formal event and reception. Spouses, family members and friends are also most welcome to join.

Recognizing that the unwavering dedication and service of so many individuals and organizations who have been instrumental in shaping the vibrant community we are today, it is our hope that we can bring together as many of those who were part of the lead up to and the amalgamation itself as we can.

RSVP by September 15th: To ensure that we can accommodate everyone, please call or RSVP to media@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-258-9569 x 184. Please reach out for inquiries or special arrangements.

For more information, visit our website at www.northgrenville.ca.

An eventful August for the Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League

was well represented. After a tie, then 2 play-off holes, it came down to the final putt, with Cathy Hall-Maur and Randy McGee bringing the Green Team in for the win! A great event, and everyone will be looking forward to a rematch next year. Some of our members also competed in the Sun Scramble. In the Ladies D flight, Cheryl Tataryn and Kelli Cumming placed third.

Birds of Prey Show returns to North Grenville

attending are kindly asked to consider a donation – a suggested donation of $5 (or more) helps Friends put on events of this type and carry out our other programming.

submitted by Joan Beauregard

August was a very eventful month for the Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League, adding tryouts for the Ottawa Valley Golf Association Seniors Intersectionals and some additional tournaments to our regular round of games.

A high point was our DePencier Tournament, a two-person low ball aggregate. The Trophy was donated to the league in the 1930’s by Canon dePencier of Burritts Rapids, and has been awarded every year since. Twenty-eight ladies in teams of two battled for

the most points. After a hotly contested round, the team of Heather Pitt and Glenda Helem won with a total of 10 points. Second place was taken by Diane Schwitzer and Linda Thompson.

Then followed the qualifiers for the Women’s Senior Intersectionals, with 11 players competing for 8 spots in this September competition to be hosted by Lombard Glen in Smiths Falls. Congratulations to the ladies who qualified and a shout out to the ladies who put themselves out there to try.

The inaugural Glen Cup was organized by Paul Frizell in August, and RGLL

For our end-of-month fun-day, the challenge was to drive with a different, randomly chosen club for each hole. Our winning twosomes were: Su Oulette and Theresa McCaig (front) and Leslie Cheal and Su Laewen (back). Closest to the Target winners were Cat McCarthy and Yvonne Lane. Play was followed by lunch, awards and prizes, and announcements.

Recognition for League members who made birdies this month goes to: Cheryle Canning, Leslie Cheal, Sheri Kropf, Laurie Howard, Brenda Lawson, Donna Lush , Cathy Maur, Marg McCornock, Janne Ritske, and Jenny Thibert.

September highlights are the club championships, Seniors Intersectionals, and some wonderful weather for lots more golf!

Municipality of North Grenville welcomes new Clerk

joring in Criminal Justice and Public Policy, with a minor in Political Science.

Ms. Preston is proud of her rural roots and is heavily involved in her community. For over a decade, she’s been a part of the Mountain Township Agricultural Society, organizing the annual South Mountain Fair.

The Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre (FFFC) have re-schedule the Birds of Prey Show with two shows on September 16th. The Show was an annual event prior to the pandemic and is now coming back. Originally scheduled for June, the show had to be postponed because of a severe thunderstorm warning. The raptors probably would have been smart enough to refuse to fly in that weather!

The Show is always a big hit with North Grenville residents, watching the different raptors plunge and soar and performing free flight demonstrations before re-

turning to their handlers. It has been immensely popular in the past and makes a wonderful outing for the whole family. FFFC is very pleased to bring it to our community again.

A variety of birds of prey will be in the Show which will feature The Eyrie Birds of Prey centre, whose goal is to instill a respect, sense of wonder, and knowledge of raptors in the public.

The Birds of Prey Show will take place in the arboretum of Ferguson Forest (entrance from County Road 43). Signage and volunteers will help direct visitors.

There will be two performances, one at 11 am and one at 2 pm. Those

Rotary update

The Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre is a non-profit, volunteer organization that exists to preserve, protect, maintain, and enhance the Ferguson Forest trails and other public-use areas, in partnership with the Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation, for the educational benefit and enjoyment of the public, and to promote the Ferguson Tree Nursery’s historical and ongoing significance to the Ferguson Forest Centre and the local community. The Friends of FFC hold a number of activities over the year open to the public, including interpretive walks in the Forest and educational events (https://www. friendsofthefergusonforest.ca).

The Municipality of North Grenville is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Chloe Preston as Municipal Clerk, effective September 5, 2023.

Chloe Preston brings a wide range of public administration and municipal experience, most recently as the Deputy Clerk with the Township of North Dundas.

Prior to that, Ms. Preston worked for a general practice law firm in Kemptville. She studied at the University of Guelph, ma-

“On behalf of Council and the Municipality of North Grenville, I wish to welcome Ms. Preston to the Municipality,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Her past experience represents a tremendous asset to North Grenville and the people we serve,” added Mayor Peckford.

The Municipal Clerk provides administrative and legislative support to members of Council and Committees. In addition, the Clerk will lead municipal licensing, regulatory and statutory by-laws, records management, Freedom of Information Requests, and municipal and school board elections.

“I’m looking forward to working with staff and the community to continue to make North Grenville a wonderful place to live and work,” emphasized Ms. Preston.

Ms. Preston was publicly appointed at the September 5, 2023 Council meeting.

submitted by Anna Van Adrichem-Rochon Rotary members are people of action. In spite of the fact that the Rotary Club of Kemptville is made up of fewer than 15 members, we get a lot done in our community and internationally too.

On Tuesday, September 19th, we will be getting an early start on the day with a breakfast meeting at the Long Reach Restaurant on County Rd 44. We are meeting at 7 am and invite anyone else who is interested in making a difference to join us to learn more.

One of the things that we do is ensure that we provide four $1,000 bursaries to graduating students from local high schools. We work with the Kemptville Youth Centre in all of their fundraising efforts. We host a special meal event at Camp Merrywood, we provide funds to purchase smoke free stoves to families in Central America and we took a leadership role in raising money in this community for the people in Ukraine. There are many times that we assist community groups with their efforts – pancake breakfasts, Kemptville Live, and parades. Look around at any special event in our community and you will likely find a Rotary member making a difference. Please join us and find out more about how Rotarians are people of action.

DePencier Tournament winners Heather Pitt and Glenda Helem

submitted by Lynne Tyler

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG