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STARTING OCTOBER 1
CLEAR VISION. A BRIGHTER YOU.
Vol.14, Issue 37
September 24 2026
Oktoberfest comes to Kemptville
submitted by Herb Cloutier (Jamming Around Man) Get ready to raise a stein and celebrate Bavarian style as Oktoberfest comes to Kemptville on Saturday, October 3. The Kemptville Oktoberfest will take over the W.B. George Centre for a full day of music, food, dancing, beer and Bavarian-inspired fun. The event is being presented by 4 Degrees Brewing & Distilling and JAM Productions and runs from noon until 11:30 p.m.
September 24, 2026
ences with German and European folk music for decades. Their repertoire includes polkas, waltzes and tangos, making them a natural fit for an Oktoberfest celebration. Rounding out the musical lineup is Bird King, an Ottawa group offering a mix of classic rock, pop and R&B favourites designed to keep the dance floor busy. And, of course, no Oktoberfest would be complete without beer. 4 Degrees Brewing & Distilling is producing
Music will be a big part of the celebration, with three acts scheduled throughout the day and evening. Headlining the entertainment are the Mudmen, the Canadian Celtic-rock group known for their high-energy performances and signature bagpipes. The band is scheduled to take the stage in the evening, with their performance listed for approximately 8 p.m. Also appearing will be The International Set, which has been entertaining Ottawa area audi-
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a special Märzen style beer exclusively for the Kemptville celebration. Märzen is a traditional German-style lager associated with Oktoberfest. Food will also be available throughout the event. Oktoberfest has its roots in Munich, Germany, but the tradition has spread around the world. In Ontario, perhaps the best-known celebration is the annual Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, which began in 1969 and has grown into a major celebration of German-Canadian culture. Kemptville's version takes some of those traditional elements, music, food, beer and dancing and brings them closer to home. The event is 19+, with free parking available at the W.B. George Centre. Tickets are currently listed at $45. So whether you arrive in lederhosen, simply come ready to dance, or just want to experience something a little different in North Grenville this fall, Kemptville Oktoberfest promises a day of music, food and plenty of Gemütlichkeit. Kemptville Oktoberfest takes place Saturday, October 3, from noon to 11:30 p.m. at the W.B. George Centre, 48 Shearer Street, Kemptville.
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North Grenville Arts Guild welcomes new president
e a r t b e a t H OF OUR COMMUNITY
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by Marguerite Boyer The North Grenville Arts Guild is welcoming Jayne Couch Molony as its new president. Jayne brings a wealth of artistic experience to the role. A classically trained artist, she has studied art in Canada, Europe and the United States, including at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, the École
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des Beaux-Arts in Paris, and Parsons School of Design in New York. Her career has spanned both the fine arts and the film and television industry, where she spent 25 years heading art departments across Canada and the United States. Today, drawing remains at the heart of her artistic practice, with her work ex-
ploring geometry, observation and the expressive power of the simple line. Jayne has also spent more than a decade sharing her knowledge as an anatomy and drawing instructor at the Ottawa School of Art and through workshops throughout Eastern Ontario. Working from her studio in a restored 1855 Methodist church along the Rideau Canal, Jayne continues to draw inspiration from the rural landscape and communities around her. As she takes on the leadership of the North Grenville Arts Guild, Jayne hopes to bring her experience, enthusiasm and belief in the importance of art to the local arts community.
NGCommunity Steps Up Support For Parkinson Canada SuperWalk
613.258.9720
ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)
submitted by Chris Turnball Wow! Thank you to everyone in the NG community who enthusiastically participated in the first North Grenville Parkinson Canada Superwalk on Sunday, Sept. 13th!! The Blake Williamson Memorial Hall was filled with friends and family members from across North Grenville and beyond. There were over 100 who attended and walked, had lunch and listened to music by Stella Blue, as well as Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours. The SuperWalk was made possible through generous contributions from community businesses and organizations: B&H, Rotary Kemptville, Rush Truck Centres, Workshop Dance Studio, Bubba & Bugs, Kemptville Lifestyles, Anytime Fitness Kemptville, Canadian Tire, Grahame's Bakery, Nature’s Way, CIBC, Cross Fit Kemptville, Leeder Agriservices, Younited Nutrition and Honey Bar. We were grateful for the support of our Parkinson September 24, 2026
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Canada national sponsors Right at Home, Chartwell, Burnbrae Farms, and Rexall Care Network. We had strong support from Nancy Morgan of Workshop Dance Studio, who held three cardio drumming sessions to fundraise, and also made sure word of the SuperWalk circulated widely via social media posts. Moose FM and the NGTimes also helped spread the word. At the SuperWalk, wonderful volunteers helped with set-up and take-down, welcomed people at the door, and took on various registration tasks. They cheered on walkers from the circuit, and assisted with lunch options and snacks, among many other things. Thank you!! Local band Stella Blue was excellent; they were situated half way along the circuit, and walkers could pause and listen to their music and songs. Popular group Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours played in the Memorial Hall over lunch, and their good energy and music
had people clapping along. Rotary Club served lunch with subs donated by B&H Grocers. The event was well supported by Griffin Patterson of Parkinson Canada, and the North Grenville Parks and Recreation staff were also a great help with facilities management and clean-up. North Grenville is a generous community. We raised over $51,000.00 (and counting) toward research, therapies, and future developments of medical treatments for Parkinson disease. Thank you all so much!! If anyone wants to continue to raise funds, the Parkinson Canada SuperWalk’s fundraiser continues until December 31st. The organizing committee (Nancy MillerMcKenzie, Diana Tallman, and Chris Turnbull, with Griffin Patterson of Parkinson Canada) would like to thank everyone who supported friends, family, and the NG and area community at the first North Grenville Parkinson SuperWalk. See you next year! www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
National Seniors Day to Shine in Downtown Kemptville Celebrate, Connect & Shop: A Community Event Honouring Older Adults On October 1, Downtown Kemptville will become the centre of a community-wide celebration as Seniors' Community Services (SCS), in partnership with the Downtown Kemptville BIA, hosts a special National Seniors Day event designed to recognize, celebrate, and connect older adults throughout North Grenville. The event, themed “Celebrate, Connect & Shop," will transform Downtown Kemptville into a welcoming and age-friendly destination where older adults can enjoy a fun and engaging day exploring local businesses, reconnecting with friends, participating in activities, and taking advantage of special Seniors Day promotions. The initiative was
developed to recognize the tremendous contributions seniors make to our community while encouraging greater social connection, healthy living, and community participation. National Seniors Day is observed across Canada each year on October 1 and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the experience, wisdom, volunteerism, and leadership that older adults bring to our communities. For many local residents, seniors are the volunteers, caregivers, mentors, neighbours, and community builders who help make North Grenville a vibrant and welcoming place to live. The idea for the event emerged through collaboration between SCS, local businesses, community partners, and downtown stakeholders who wanted to create a daytime celebration that
would be both social and accessible. Planning has included a variety of features intended to make the day enjoyable for seniors of all abilities, including volunteer supports, entertainment, transportation assistance, and opportunities to visit participating merchants throughout the downtown core. A key attraction will be a community-wide shopping passport program encouraging participants to visit multiple downtown businesses while learning more about the products and services available locally. Organizers hope the initiative will not only celebrate seniors but also strengthen connections between older adults and the local business community. Beyond shopping, the event is intended to foster meaningful social engagement. Organiz-
ers envision a day where seniors can meet friends for coffee, enjoy entertainment, discover new businesses, and celebrate together in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Community partners have worked to ensure the event highlights Downtown Kemptville as an inclusive, agefriendly destination where older adults feel valued, respected, and connected. Seniors' Community Services Executive Director Frank Rockett noted that creating opportunities for seniors to remain active, engaged, and connected is central to the organization's mission. "National Seniors Day is about recognizing the important role seniors play in our community every day. This event gives us an opportunity to celebrate their contributions while bringing people together in a fun, welcoming environment that supports local businesses and strengthens community connections."
The Rotary Diamond Gala comes to North Grenville
submitted by Anna Van Adrichem-Rochon
The Rotary Club of Kemptville is preparing to launch a new holiday tradition with the inaugural Rotary Diamond Gala, taking place Saturday, November 28. Guests can look forward to an elegant evening of exceptional dining, live band music, dancing and fellowship, all set against beautifully decorated holiday surroundings. The Gala will raise funds in support of the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation and other Rotary community initiatives, helpSeptember 24, 2026
ing to strengthen and enrich the North Grenville community. Local businesses, organizations and community groups are also invited to become part of the celebration through Gala sponsorship opportunities or by participating in the Gallery of Giv-
ing Trees. Participants can purchase and decorate a special holiday tree that reflects their business, organization or group. The beautifully decorated trees will be displayed at the Gala and auctioned that evening, with each winning tree delivered to its new home the following day. It is a wonderful opportunity for local businesses and organizations to showcase their creativity, support the community and help make the inaugural Rotary Diamond Gala something truly special. For information rotarydiamondgala@gmail.com or Phone Anna 343-5482706
Working together with the DBIA, Seniors’ Community Services celebrates the outpouring of support that the downtown merchants are providing for this event and also thanks the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce and the Municipality of North Grenville for their support and guidance. Organizers encourage residents to mark October 1 on their calendars and watch for additional event details, participating business announcements, and activity schedules in the coming days. As North Grenville continues to grow and evolve, events like National Seniors Day serve as an important re-
minder that strong communities are built on inclusion, connection, and appreciation for the generations who helped shape them. For more information about National Seniors Day activities and Seniors' Community Services, visit seniorscs. ca or follow SCS on social media for updates.
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The Voice of North Grenville
Guest Editorial
Reflecting on Council's journey over the past 8 years
by Nancy Peckford When I ran for Mayor in 2018, I knew why I wanted to serve in elected office. At that time, I was a mother of three elementary kids and I spent a lot of time in parks, rinks, soccer fields and at community events. I realized very quickly that there is no better place to hear about what people want for their community. The more I listened, the more I heard that our
town's leadership needed to evolve with the energy of the people living here, including young families. I felt that energy. I was part of it. My path to public service was - in part- inspired by a splash pad. It was a sweltering July afternoon and a group of us at Riverside Park reflected on how helpful a splash pad would be, particularly for young kids who cannot swim. When we were told a splash
members. These volunteers do a great job representing the many voices of North Grenville. They push us forward. They also remind us about what must be preserved. We, ultimately, turned all of that engagement into a Community Strategic Plan in 2021, the creation of which engaged staff and over 2000 residents. Then we turned the plan into action. Together, with our dedicated municipal staff, we have achieved real change: • long overdue improvements to a variety of rural and urban parks and recreation. • Investments to attract the family physicians and ER doctors we need • the current conversion of Bell Hall, a former College dorm, to 62 seniors’ apartments, with a 25 milion grant from CMHC • established North Grenville’s on demand transit system • introduced municipal wide composting, • increased grants to community groups to amplify their impact - was crowned by Participaction as Canada's Most Active Community in 2021 - and won a $100,000 to invest in recreation • honoured our agricultural roots by hosting the 2022 International Plowing Match, and • perhaps, most of all,
pad was out of reach for North Grenville’s busiest park, I began to think about how I could be part of that change. Here we are, eight years later. We built the splash pad (and the outdoor rink) at Riverside. But we didn’t stop there. We opened the doors to more civic leaders. Back in 2018, my Council colleagues and I established an additional 10 advisory committees populated by community
Letters to the editor Dear Editor Health concerns I am writing in regards to the application for a pit at the corners of O’Neill Rd. , Patterson’s Corners Rd. and county Road 20. The ramifications of this project could not only affect the people in the East Oxford area, but also flow right through the heart of Kemptville. The applicant has requested to remove Aggregate from below the water table. As well an aggregate recycling facility. These processes which will create an exorbitant amount of dust from the extraction of material below the water table and the crushing of construction debris, concrete trick in from other areas. This dust will contain small particulates Crystalline Silica which could penetrate deep into the lungs, PM10 and PM2.5 which triggers or worsens, asthma, bronchitis, and wheezing, and also increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes as well as lung cancer and liver disease. September 24, 2026
Additionally, the crushing and storage of used concrete and asphalt materials could result in seepage, elevating pH levels, lead, cadmium, mercury, sulphites and chlorides. The applicants response to dust concerns, raised by local residence, was met with a response that they would just spray it down. The spraying down and everyday rain showers as well as the the stock piling of this waste materials as well as the everyday operation has the great potential of having all this toxic materials flowing into the wetlands that is directly west of the proposed pit and it is a short 900 metres from there to the Kemptville Creek, which will eventually flow through the town of Kemptville and right on into the Rideau River! There are so many health risks associated with this application and many just like it,that every resident of not just North Grenville but all of Ontario should be alarmed. by John Paterson
Dear Editor It’s hard to find the right words to adequately thank everyone on the Municipal staff and the NG Times, who made the Don Munz memorial tree planting ceremony last week happen! Don’s energy and skills were directed at what he perceived as the endless possibilities for Kemptville to become an envied model of successfully planned growth. People here are so kind and generous that he would tell you, with enthusiasm, that this town is the best place he ever lived in. Sincere thanks to all of his friends and colleagues for the signature honour of the memorial tree and the warm hearted gathering at the library for the ceremony. It was ‘over the top’! from Mary Lou Munz
secured funding for the urgently needed expansion and rehabilitation of CR 43. But governing isn’t just about pursuing a plan. We also devoted a lot of effort to making the best of challenging situations: The COVID-19 Pandemic. Inflation. Unexpected provincial policies. Pressures to grow. The Trade War. There is no way to insulate North Grenville from the events of the world. But we can make sure we manage their impacts in ways that support the residents and business leaders in North Grenville. Today, I spend even more time listening. And though my kids are now all teens, I still spend a lot of time at soccer fields, and rinks and even more time at community events. So do my Council colleagues. The success Council has enjoyed is directly related to our shared values, and to the positive working relationships we have built with each other. It hasn’t always been easy but we have been wholly dedicated to making sure we get along and modelling good behaviour for our constituents. We committed from the outset to be collaborative, and to remain collegial and connected to what the community expected of us. With this mind, I owe a debt of gratitude to the
Fatal single-vehicle collision in North Grenville
One person is deceased following a single-vehicle collision in North Grenville. On Thursday, September 17, 2026, just before 7:45 p.m., officers from the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), North Grenville Fire Department and EMS, responded to a singlevehicle collision on County Road 43 near Burritts Rapids Road. The 44-year-old driver from Ottawa was pronounced deceased at the scene. County Road 43 was closed in both directions between Burritts Rapids Road and County Road 25 for several hours while investigators were at the scene. The roadway has since reopened. Members of Grenville County OPP are continuing the investigation with support from the OPP East Region Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement (TIME) team. Anyone with information or dashcam footage relevant to the collision is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. 4
hard work of all current Council members, including outgoing Councillors Kristin Strackerjan and Doreen O’Sullivan, as well as those seeking to serve again - Deputy Mayor John Barclay and Councillor Debbie Wilson. They have assumed their responsibilities in the true spirit of public service. Council’s success has been built on a culture of effective decision-making. Stability on Council will continue the momentum and progress in the next term. The values that have made us stronger - team work, humility, courage and connectedness align with the values in the community. This is a quick paced developing town with a storied history and the decisions we make in this next term will have generational impacts. I can’t wait to begin the new term. There is so much more to do in order to leverage the energy and vision of those who share in the commitment to this remarkable place.
TIMES Contact 613-215-0735 ISSN 2291-0301
Editor David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735 Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0
Reporter Talia Hreljac Talia@ngtimes.ca Marketing/Sales marketing@ngtimes.ca 613 215-0735 Graphic Designer Mary Moore graphics designer 613-215-0735 Accounting cfo@ngtimes.ca
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The Voice of North Grenville
Wandering juvenile Water Snakes they haven’t been seen before, and springtime snakes around a little temporary pond. In the early springs from 2012-2022 we saw adults and yearlings around a little temporary pond, 506 m from the creek, as if they were near a hibernation site. Perhaps one or a few pioneering individuals found a place to hibernate in the fissured limestone near the pond, were then followed by others in subsequent years, and the tradition died out because of mortality or finding better sites elsewhere. It’s well studied that larger snakes over-winter in “hibernacula” where they can get below frost without drying out, but the hibernation of small snakes, both the juvenile Water Snakes, and the common Redbelly Snakes (Storeria occipitomaculata) hasn’t been studied. If there was any gumption to “true north” Canadian patriotism, it would be a major national project to understand how ev-
2025/252/l, Nerodia sipedon (Northern Water Snake). 1 juvenile, alive-on-road, photo. WAYPT/Y030, actively HEADING:E – 537 m from the creek. 24 Sept 2025, TIME: 10h59 – Jig St, 916 m WNW Bishops Mills intersection. (20m waypoint), 44.87565° N 75.71168° W. AIR TEMP: 21°C, sunny, Beaufort moderate breeze. HABITAT: Aspen/Basswood/Buckthorn roadside with Grape vines, across from homesite at outskirts of village. – Aleta Karstad photo. Frederick W. Schueler – Fragile Inheritance Natural History Last year I summarized our data on Water Snakes, testing the notion that juveniles were found hundreds of metres from water, while adults were always near a stream or marsh (Schueler, Frederick W. 2026. Terrestrial activity by Nerodia sipedon in eastern Ontario. The Canadian Herpetologist Winter 2025-2026 15:17-19). This publication summarized Water Snakes (Nerodia sipedon) found
over 10 years (2016-2025) within 100 km of Bishops Mills, and strongly supported the previously-formed impression that juveniles are found much farther from the water than adults. So far this year, we've had two road-killed adults, both on roads right through or beside wetlands, and on 14 September there were two road-killed juveniles on the streets in the centre of Bishops Mills, 380 m from the nearest water. Understanding what these little snakes are do-
ing away from water, what they eat, and how they hibernate would take a fully dedicated research project, on the scale of a PhD thesis, but it is unlikely to be studied, because, like so many late summer and autumnal phenomena, it overlaps the awkward interval when summer internships are ending and university classes are getting underway. Our other findings of this species through the decades are that in drought years the adults are sometimes seen in places where
www.northgrenville.ca What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca Need additional information? Visit us:
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Take notice that the Corporation of the Municipality of North Grenville will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the North Grenville Municipal Centre (285 County Road 44) to consider the following item: A proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, File # ZBA-10-26, under Section 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as amended, will be considered at that time.
Keeping Rowan’s passion for sport alive
The purpose and effect of this application is to make a series of changes to Comprehensive Zoning By-law 50-12, correcting oversights and errors and clarifying the intent of certain wording. The main changes being proposed are clarification of the definition of adult entertainment parlour, clarification of setbacks from watercourses and floodplains, allowance of shared commercial parking lots, establishment of landscaped buffers adjacent municipal parks or trails and allowance for school bus parking on residential properties. There are several changes being proposed to the text and land use schedules of By-law 50-12.
It has been two years since the North Grenville community lost Rowan Dean, a young man whose passion for sports touched the lives of those around him. In honour of Rowan’s short life and his love of athletics, the Run for Rowan will take place on Saturday, October 10. Participants are invited to run or walk in memory of Rowan and to help keep his passion for sport alive in the community. All proceeds from the event support the Rowan Dean Passion for Sport Athletic Award, which is presented to graduating students at North Grenville District High School. The award helps recognize students who share Rowan’s enthusiasm for athletics and encourages them to continue pursuing their passion for sport. Whether you choose to run, walk, or simply support the event, the day is an opportunity to come together as a community, remember Rowan, and celebrate the difference that sport can make in the lives of young people. To register for the Run for Rowan, visit Trackie – Run for Rowan registration. For more information, follow @RunForRowanDean on Instagram.
A key map is not included because this amendment is deemed to be a general amendment which applies to all lands throughout the Municipality. Additional information regarding the application will be made available to members of the public when requested. For more information about this matter, contact the Planner in one of the following manners during regular business hours from Monday to Friday: For more Information about this matter, including information about preserving your appeal rights, contact the Planning and Building Department’s Office during regular business hours from Monday to Friday by telephone (613-258-9659 x 116), e-mail (planning@northgrenville.on.ca), in writing (285 County Road 44, PO BOX 130, Kemptville, ON, K0G 1J0) or in person.
He a r t b e a t
Dated at the Municipality of North Grenville this 23rd day of September, 2026.
OF OUR COMMUNITY
September 24, 2026
the winter freeze-tolerance of frogs and of Goldenrod Gall Fly larvae and expanding to various other species. It would be nice to see this as a wide-ranging goal, rather than individual projects, and the destinations and hibernation of small snakes would be an important element of such a project.
Municipality of North Grenville Notice of Public Meeting Concerning a Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment
Run for Rowan:
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ery species gets through the winter, with adequate funding and a dedicated September-to-March field season. We worked for forty years with Ken & Janet Storey’s lab at Carleton University, providing specimens and natural history guidance for their studies of the biochemistry of inactivity: starting with
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Getting to know the Candidates There are six candidates seeking the four Councillor seats on the North Grenville Municipal Council for the next four years, two are returning, and four are brand new. From next week, the NG Times will be publishing articles on each candidate, based on interviews conducted with them since the election was officially called. The plan is to publish pieces on two candidates each week, chosen at random. It is unclear as yet whether there will be an all-candidates meeting held at the Municipal Centre this time around. Two Community Association, those of Bishop’s Mills and
Burritt’s Rapids are joining forces to hold a meeting of candidates at the Bishop’s Mills Community Hall, 38 Main Street, on October 20 at 7p.m., though this will be a more informal “mingle with the candidates”, rather than the traditional format used in previous years. The Oxford Mills Community Association will also be contributing to that gathering. Given te situation, the articles here in the Times may be an alternative way of getting to know something about the candidates, their background, policies, and what makes them run this time. Should a more formal all-candidates
meeting be arranged in the coming weeks, it will be announced in these pages as well. The municipal and school board election will be held Monday, October 26, 2026. Eligible electors will be mailed a Voter Information Letter in October that provides voters with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) as well as a website address and a telephone number that will be available for casting ballots. Electors will be required to visit the website or phone the telephone number and enter the provided PIN as well as their date of birth. The system will match the
PIN to the date of birth confirming elector identity and the appropriate ballot will be provided. Eligible electors who prefer to vote by traditional voting (paper voting method), may visit the
Municipal Office located at 285 County Road 44 in Kemptville on Election Day between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. to cast their vote.
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109 New Co-operative Homes Under Construction in Kemptville
A New Chapter for the Ferguson Tree Nursery
The Municipality of North Grenville and the Ferguson Forest Centre Corporation (FFCC) are pleased to announce that they have agreed to work together on a new path forward for the Ferguson Tree Nursery. The Nursery, a business operation of FFCC, grows and ships more than 1.5 million tree seedlings annually to customers across Ontario. Historically, Nursery revenues have supported FFCC's broader community and stewardship activities. Following detailed discussions between the Municipality and the FFCC Board, responsibility for the Nursery will be transferred to the Municipality. This will occur as soon as the necessary arrangements can be completed, helping to ensure the Nursery's long-term viability. This initiative responds to ongoing operational and financial pressures affecting the Nursery, as well as the increasing complexity of sustaining it under its current structure. September 24, 2026
The proposed transition provides a path to preserve the Ferguson Tree Nursery and its role in the community, while establishing a new municipally led model for its future operation. Both the Municipality and FFCC recognize the importance of the Nursery to its employees, customers, suppliers, partners, and the broader North Grenville community. For many residents, the Ferguson Tree Nursery is more than a business operation; it is part of the community's history, identity, and connection to the Ferguson Forest Centre. "The Ferguson Tree Nursery has benefited from the dedication and professionalism of its employees over many years," said Wes Herring, President of the FFCC Board. "We thank them for their continued commitment and look forward to supporting a smooth transition." "This agreement marks a significant change," said Mayor Nancy Peckford. "But it also creates the op-
portunity for a new chapter for the Ferguson Tree Nursery, one intended to revitalize an important community institution while establishing clearer responsibility for its future." During the transition, the Municipality and FFCC will work closely together to provide as much continuity and clarity as possible for employees, customers, and other stakeholders. Additional information will be shared as transition arrangements are finalized. Importantly, no changes to Veteran's Way Memorial Park, Ferguson Forest Dog Park, the Arboretum, Anniversary Park, Kinderwood, Mino-jichaag Mtigwaaki (the Good Spirit Forest), or the nature trails are being announced as part of this Nursery transition. The governance and stewardship of these lands, amenities, and programs remain subject to their existing lease agreements. 6
Reuben Crescent Housing Co-operative and New Commons Housing Trust today celebrated the groundbreaking for a new 109-home co-operative housing community now under construction in Kemptville, an unincorporated community in the municipality of North Grenville, south of Ottawa. North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford and MPP Steve Clark joined housing partners and co-operative sector leaders to mark an important milestone for the new co-operative community. The $55.4 million development is supported with combination of financing and grants, including the Municipality of North Grenville's targeted property tax abatement program, the Province of Ontario's development charge waiver program, and an investment of over $3 million from New Market Funds. “I congratulate everyone, including all three levels of government, whose work made today’s groundbreaking possible. The need for new affordable housing is not just a big city issue. It’s a challenge in growing small and rural communities, too and this 109-home co-operative housing community gives young people, families, and seniors in Kemptville the opportunity to find a home they can afford,” said Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau
Lakes. “I’m pleased our government is helping get more co-operative housing projects like this one built in Eastern Ontario by taking action that includes exempting affordable and non-profit housing from municipal development charges.” When complete, the new community will expand access to affordable, community-owned housing for moderate-income households in Kemptville village and includes 16 studio, 43 on-bedroom, 32 two-bedroom and 18 three-bedroom apartments. Monthly carrying charges (rents) will range from approximately $1,600 to $2,900. Construction began in April 2026 and is to be completed by September 2028. Mayor Nancy Peckford shares that “as North Grenville continues to grow, we need more housing choices, and co-operative housing is an important part of that mix. New Commons Housing Trust's Reuben Crescent project will bring 109 new rental units to Kemptville, creating more options for individuals and families, including muchneeded deeply affordable units. We welcome the significant investment from New Market Funds, as well as both municipal and provincial programs that has made it possible.” Reuben Crescent Housing Co-operative is developed by New Commons Development, a non-profit development
company that is affiliated with New Market Funds, a charitably owned fund manager committed to investing private capital into community projects. “New Market Funds is pleased to have the opportunity to support the Ruben Crescent Housing Co-operative in a pivotal financing role and increase access to affordable housing in the community,” said managing partner Derek Ballantyne. “Kemptville, like many smaller communities, has the need for permanently affordable housing to support the community and its future growth.” The project also marks another step in the resurgence of co-operative housing in Canada. After decades of limited new co-op construction, new investments are helping expand a housing model that provides secure tenure and long-term affordability. “Reuben Crescent is another example of the resurgence of co-operative housing across Canada, in communities both large and small,” said Tim Ross, CEO, Co-operative Federation of Canada. “New investments are helping to expand the co-op housing model, which provides security, affordability and fosters strong and inclusive communities. CHF Canada is committed to growing co-op housing to meet the significant demand for this unique housing model.” www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Reconciliation: more than one day a year
by David Shanahan September 30 is the official National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, introduced by legislation in 2021 in response “to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s call to action number 80 by creating a holiday called the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which seeks to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors and their families and communities and to ensure that public commemoration of their history and the legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process”. Aside from the one day set aside annually for the purpose, the intention of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s [TRC] call to action was to encourage Canadians to learn and understand the history and legacy of residential schools in the history of Canada and the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island. How far we’ve progressed in learning that history, much less understanding the legacy is not encouraging. Meeting with representatives of the various Anishinabek communities affected by one particular residential school recently, it was pointed out that truth can be hard; not just the terrible facts and the multi-generational impacts of what boys and girls experienced in the schools, but also facing the truth that many children actually enjoyed their school days. The structure and friendships September 24, 2026
experienced fitted well with their personalities. For many others, school was hell on earth. What has always impressed me over many years has been the resilience, the strength of so many survivors, as they tried to break the cycle of trauma that impacted them and their families. Boys and girls caught for as long as a decade or more in an environment that denied them love, warmth, family, went on in time to become parents with their own children. Many found it impossible to express love, provide warmth and support to their own children because they had never known such things themselves. Others found themselves passing on to the children the same negative behaviours they had learned in residential school. Generations suffered long after the schools themselves closed. There were positive aspects too: education opened doors that would otherwise have remained closed; but at what cost? Children spent time in school, then returned home to find a barrier had been raised: some no longer understood their own language, and found it hard to communicate with their parents and siblings. They were even unable to join in prayers and ceremonies. Others discovered that a level of education denied to their ancestors was another barrier that they found difficult to overcome. For non-Indigenous people in this country, there has been an awak-
ening to these truths, and a growing desire to help in the reconciliation that is needed on both sides in order to heal the wounds of the past. That can also be a problem, as well-intentioned people have acted without truly learning the full truth of the past. Misleading media reports are accepted without question, especially if they paint the darkest picture of the past, and produce a simplistic viewpoint that fails to see the details, the variations in the experiences of Indigenous children across time and geography. There can be no reconciliation without truth: that is a basic fact. How can we be reconciled when we have an incomplete or inaccurate picture of what we need to be reconciled about? This is something that all of us, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, have to do: the “history and the legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process”. People may know nothing of the history beyond the one oft-repeated quote about “killing the Indian in the child”, not the same as killing the Indian, but reflective of a policy which sought to, as D. C. Scott stated in 1920: “I want to get rid of the Indian problem…Our object is to continue until there is not a single Indian in Canada that has not been absorbed into the body politic and there is no Indian question, and no Indian Department.” That may, or may not be considered a defini7
tion of “cultural genocide”, but it is a far more nuanced approach than what is often understood as the Crown’s assimilisation policy, or, as it was known from 1830, its “Civilisation Policy”. In other words, while the effects of Residential Schools have been generally disastrous for Indigenous communities, creating serious and deep-rooted trauma for generations of people, Canadians still don’t “get
it”. The general level of knowledge and understanding about Indigenous history overall is still remarkably, and appallingly, vague and confused. So, rather than just marking National Day of Truth and Reconciliation once a year, let’s make it an incentive to learn and inform in a more complete and deeper way. Canada’s Indigenous peoples are not simply victims of colonisation, though they are that:
they are also peoples with varied and rich cultures and traditions. They have proved themselves to be resilient, unbelievably patient and strong; deserving of respect and toleration as much as any other ethnic communities in Canada, but with deeper roots in the land, perhaps a greater sense of our place in the environment. Mutual respect and understanding is the goal, and the way to get there is through knowing the truth – the real truth. It is said among Indigenous peoples that healing takes seven generations. We all need to find and enable healing, understanding that this will take much more than marking one day a year and thinking we’ve done our bit. So many false ideas dominate the conversation; so many deep-rooted racist and unconscious assumptions need to be exposed and corrected. But, as someone said, “the Truth will set you free”.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Join the North Grenville Indigenous Advisory Circle, Indigenous Leaders, Council and members of the public as we come together in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Saturday, September 26th 12:00 pm (Noon) Mino-jichaag Mtigwaaki 241 Honour Way, Ferguson Forest
Event will include speakers, drumming, food, and companionship. Everyone welcome!
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Mourato Carlos
Member South Mountain Lodge #425 Independent Order of ODD Fellows Carlos passed peacefully at Kemptville District Hospital Sunday August 30, 2026, at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Lise Mourato (nee Vezina) Loving Father of Jackie Mourato and son Jason Mourato (Becky) Cherished Poppy of Terrell, Vesta (Zack), Emma (Owen), Owen, Austin, and Quinn. Special Great-Grand Poppy to Ivy and Willow. Survived by his brother Tony (Tina). Predeceased by his parents Joaquim and LouisaMourato. He will be missed by dear friends Greg and Josée. Special thanks to the nurses and Dr.’s who gave Carlos excellent care while at the Ottawa General Hospital. A very special thank you to Kemptville District Hospital nurses and Dr.’s for the explementary care, compassion and professionalism shown to Carlos during his stay. A very heartfelt thank you to John from the KDH kitchen, who showed compassion to Carlos and myself. You are not forgotten. Thank you. Family and friends are invited for a Funeral Mass that will take place at Holy Cross Church, 505 Clothier St. West, Kemptville on Monday September 28 at 11 am. Followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers those who wish may make a memorial donation to the Holy Cross Church or Kemptville District Hospital. Reception to follow at the Kemptville Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 805 Prescott St., Kemptville, from 12:30pm to 2pm. Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435
Ingrid Cornelia Bohm (Buttner) Peacefully at the Ottawa General Hospital on Sunday September 13, 2026. Ingrid Bohm age 67 of Ottawa. Beloved wife of Ricardo “Ric” Bohm. Proud mother of Franziska (Stefan) of Alberta, Christian (Mickerra) of Ottawa & Samantha of Ottawa. Ingrid was very quick on the draw to show off her grandchildren Bentley, Macie & Rhett. Survived by her sister Lori Reason (late Brian Cassidy) of Kemptville along with two other siblings. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews and the Bohm Family. Predeceased by her parents Franziska (Hornung) & Wilhelm Buttner. She learned how to swim during their many camping/portaging trips to Algonquin Park. They would just be getting back & she would be planning their next excursion. When the children were young they would spend the winter weekends snowmobiling & ice fishing at their cottage on Heney Lake, Quebec. Their last trip was exploring Western Canada & they made it as far as Dawson City. By family request, there will be no funeral & a burial at a later date. The family would like to Thank everyone that had a part in taking care of Ingrid. Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be shared at www. byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
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ROMA celebrates the people, communities and opportunities that make rural Ontario strong First-ever Rural Ontario Week recognizes the vital role rural communities play in Ontario’s future The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) is celebrating the first-ever Rural Ontario Week, taking place September 20–26, and recognizing the people, communities, businesses and industries that make rural Ontario an essential part of the province’s success. Designated unanimously by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, Rural Ontario Week will take place annually during the third full week of September. This year’s theme, Celebrating Community, Economy and Opportunity, recognizes the people and places that make rural communities strong, the businesses and industries that help Ontario grow, and the opportunities shaping rural Ontario’s future. “Rural Ontario is a critical part of Ontario’s
September 24, 2026
story—and its future,” said Christa Lowry, Chair of ROMA. “Our communities are home to people who are growing businesses, creating jobs, producing food, building things, caring for their neighbours and finding new ways to strengthen their communities. Rural Ontario is innovative, resilient and full of opportunity.” Rural municipalities also play a critical role in supporting Ontario’s growth and prosperity. They deliver essential local services across large geographic areas, maintain roads and infrastructure, support housing and economic development, and work to ensure residents have access to health care, reliable connectivity and other services. “Rural municipal leaders understand what our communities need because we are on the ground every day,” said Lowry. “But rural communities also face unique challenges.
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Smaller tax bases, vast service areas, higher infrastructure costs, health care shortages and gaps in connectivity can make it harder to deliver the services and infrastructure that our residents and businesses need.” ROMA is advocating for policies and investments that reflect those rural realities, including long-term and predictable infrastructure funding, better access to primary care, solutions to rural housing and homelessness, improved broadband and cellular connectivity, and a modern provincial-municipal fiscal framework. “Celebrating rural Ontario means more than recognizing what makes our communities special,” said Lowry. “It means making sure rural municipalities have the tools and resources to build on our strengths and seize the opportunities ahead.
ROMA will continue to work with our members and partners to ensure rural voices are heard as Ontario plans for its future.” ROMA is encouraging municipalities, community organizations, businesses and residents across rural Ontario to participate in Rural Ontario Week by sharing local stories and celebrating the people and places that make their communities unique.
Baldwin’s Birds
Immature female Baltimore Oriole
Orange Delight
My quandary, as to how to keep up continuity, in my article writing for you, whilst still being deprived of my means of communication, with the outside world, i.e.no Wi-Fi, hence no internet, telephone etc, goes on!! My avian friends haven’t been too forthcoming either, with providing me with current picture-taking opportunities of themselves. In fact there don’t seem to a lot of birds flitting about in our front garden, or back yard, at all! The Bluebirds haven’t appeared at all, in their customary way over the past years, to nest in my nesting boxes, not even for a cursory inspection of them, or just to say hi! Fortunately the House Wren didn’t disappoint, although not until very late in the season and has now departed, or seemingly so, I haven’t heard it recently. Our backyard water feature has attracted a few Goldfinches and Chickadees to partake of a drink, on the sunnier days, but other than that everyone seems to be away, even the neighbors’ cats, which, I suppose, is to be expected, because of the lack of birds to catch! Talking of birds that we rarely see, but know are summer inhabitants in this area, I was lucky enough to catch a fleeting glimpse of the bright orange color of a male Baltimore Oriole recently. Luckily my camera was to hand and I was able to get a couple of pictures of it, before it was gone! Prior to seeing this fellow, a couple of months back, we had an immature one trying to feed on the Hummingbird Feeder. Unfortunately it didn’t have much success, so soon disappeared, leaving us with just the memory of its visit! Being, nearly, at the end of the summery season we will soon be witnessing the departure of some of our summer visitors and, hopefully, the arrival of our Fall and Winter ones. The latter sets many of us up for our winter feeding routines and the provisioning of a grateful means of survival for some of the birds to persevere, during the colder weather spells. Brrr! I don’t want to dwell on them right now,--I’m enjoying the warmth whilst it lasts! I hope you are too, Stay fit and well. Cheers, John Baldwin
Get Ready to Vote: Check the Voters’ List The Municipality of North Grenville is reminding eligible voters to confirm that their information is included on the voters’ list for the 2026 Municipal Election. The voters’ list has been prepared using information from a variety of data sources. If your information was not included in those sources, you may not appear on the list. Eligible voters can contact the Municipality of North Grenville to confirm that they are on the voters’ list and that their information is correct. Please note that, as of August 14, 2026, any changes or additions to your voter information for the 2026 Municipal Election must be made through the Municipality of North Grenville, rather than through Elections Ontario. If you are unsure whether you are on the voters’ list or need to update your information, please contact the Municipality for assistance. 8
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eQuinelle Winter Village Market Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 3 PM 📍 eQuinelle Clubhouse – 140 eQuinelle Dr, Kemptville, The eQuinelle Winter Village Market returns for another festive and community‑focused celebration of local creativity. This annuSeptember 24, 2026
al event brings together a curated selection of artisans, makers, small businesses, and direct sales vendors from eQuinelle, Kemptville, Ottawa, and surrounding areas. Each vendor is thoughtfully selected to avoid overlapping product categories, en-
suring a fresh, diverse, and engaging shopping experience filled with handmade goods, seasonal items, and unique holiday gifts. Admission is FREE, and guests are encouraged to bring a donation for the Salvation Army Food Bank to support
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families in need during the holiday season. The venue offers complimentary parking, full wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and a circle drive for convenient drop‑offs before parking. This event is not run by eQuinelle, but lov-
ingly organized by a small volunteer team. We extend our appreciation to eQuinelle for making the clubhouse available for this special community market. Invite your friends, share the event, and come support incredible local creators while en-
joying a warm, welcoming market atmosphere. Follow for updates: Facebook: facebook. com/groups/equinellevendormarket Instagram: instagram.com/equinellemarket LinkTree: linktr.ee/equinellemarket
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73’s open the 2026/2027 season on a high note with four points
into the hole...Riley Streska places a beautiful backhand during Sunday matinee with Renfrew Wolves. By G.J. the sportsguy Kemptville put their Main Camp behind them and Pre-Season tucked away as they ventured into their home opener to face the Raiders of Nepean to start the regular season with a 7 to 2 win. Municipality Mayor Mary Peckford with Councillor Deb Wilson were on hand for the official puck drop to start the evening’s entertainment. Kemptville dominated the initial frame hemming their opponents in their end when Venance dished it to Hennesy to Thomas Dickey driving the net through Evan Grant at 10:07. Dickey on his horse with D’Arienzo to Jay Zeus Mbarushimana on the flank to hammer it home for 73’s power play
September 24, 2026
goal at 13:39. The second verse was the same as the first with Kemptville controlling the Raiders, but a D miscue allowed a PPG from Hunter Ncwana with helpers from Baker and Smith squeezed it under Jacob Turpin pillow at 6:00. 73’s AP Cameron Kealy assisted from Dougherty and Streska pummeled a rocket from the point through traffic at 12:19. At 12:31 Kealy held the line with Bonin to blast the rubber off the stopper and Riley Streska hard on it and punched it home to maintain a three goal lead. Nepean, showing their frustration, flooded the sin-bin and D’Arienzo cycling with Dickey to find Jay Zeus Mbarushimana in the weeds for his second PPG of
the evening at 13:49. Morgan Henderson launched a howitzer off the line with helpers from D’Arienzo with Mbarushimana into the back of the net for 73’s PPG at 15:51. Mbarushiman with D’Arienzo copied previous play to Morgan Henderson for his second PPG just prior to the horn at 19:59 to make it a seven one romp. Kemptville took their foot off the gas in the final twenty as Baker combined with Pettipas to swarm the blue paint and Ryan Kinghan buried the spoils for the Raiders PPG at 17:14. Kemptville peppered Nepean with a 51 onslaught SOG to 19 with 4/9 PP to 2/3 PP. The Coach thought it was a solid start for the
group this year, with a quick executed transition from our end up the ice to allow our forwards to use their speed. Lots of good things to build on in the future. Renfrew Wolves were tripled down 6 to 2 by Kemptville 73’s in a Sunday matinee homestand. The first twenty was end to end action with a stellar performance from each stopper to close out the initial period scoreless. Kemptville came out hot in the second when Clookey on his bicycle dropped it to Karon that found Cameron Kealy in the slot to blast it past Mason Costa at 3:21. Tic Tac Toe from Mbarushimana with Venance attacking the zone to Riley Streska in the rocking chair backhanded through the five hole at 4:24 for 73’s two goal lead. Renfrew countered when Almstedt stormed the net and Mikayil Khariman pushed the rubber under Cesare Lucas Della Santina pillow to alleviate SO on a power play at 9:20. A deflection off 73’s body after another PPG from Alex Gagne with helpers from Kahriman and Houde knotted it up at two. Game winner in the third when Kemptville found an extra gear with combo cycling low with Mbarushimana to Dickey and Zachary Venance pumped home the spoils at
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8:50. Streska on the prowl with Barakat set up Julien Kemp on the doorstep for Kemptville’s insurance at 10:25. Dickey out of the trenches to Mbarushimana over the middle to Zachary Venance for his second marker in 19 seconds at 10:40 to continue the bleeding. Nichols maintained the zone with Mbarushimana to Thomas Dickey in overdrive to stench the blood bath at
13:35 for a 6 to 2 victory. Kemptville posted 43 to 31 SOG with 0/0 PP and 2/2 PP for Renfrew. Navan Grads grace Kemptville 73’s barn on Friday evening and then your team get on the bus for a trek on Saturday evening meeting with the Ottawa Junior Senators. Hockey with EDGE…CU around the wall.
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Cade Campbell Nickname:Soups Born: Toronto, ON 3/14/2009 Position: Defense Previous Team: Kemptville 73’s Hockey Hero:Bobby Orr Most Inspiring Person: My mom Favourite Food:Mangos Favourite Musician: Drake Favourite Sport (beside hockey):Golf Best Hockey Moment: Last year’s playoffs Life of 73’s: : Fun One Word that Describes Me: Dedicated
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Help an animal find a loving home during the Ontario SPCA’s Fall Adoption Days Adoption fees reduced by 15 per cent for adult cats, dogs and rabbits during two-day event Brockville, ON (Sept. 21, 2026) – With a record number of animals in its care, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Leeds and Grenville Animal Centre is hosting Fall Adoption Days on Friday, Sept. 25 and Saturday, Sept. 26. During the special twoday event, adoption fees for adult cats, dogs and rabbits will be reduced by 15 per cent to help as many animals as possible find loving homes. The Ontario SPCA is currently caring for more than 650 animals at is 13 animal centres across the province – the highest number of animals in its care at one time in the past five years. Animal numbers have increased as more ani-
mals have come into the Society’s care following the wildfires in Northern Ontario, along with an increase in requests from families looking to re-home their pets. “Every animal deserves the chance to find a loving home, and right now, there are more animals than usual waiting for that chance,” says Shawn Aaron, Manager, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Leeds and Grenville Animal Centre. “Fall Adoption Days are an opportunity for people to open their hearts and homes to an animal in need, while helping us make space for other animals who may need our support.” There are many great
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In October, the McGahey Family Remember and Celebrate
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On October 14th, we remember our beloved Terry, who was with us for only 8 short years, but whose memory has lived on in our hearts always. Loved and remembered forever.
We celebrate!
Paul and Marion married on October 1st, 1966. 60 Years! 60 years of family, farming and Insurance along with love, laughter and faith. Feel free to send good wishes to the young couple at Box 1337, Kemptville, On K0G 1J0 September 24, 2026
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The Story of our Schools - 4
The Circle Game
Consolidation to amalgamation
Photo: Jean Joyner teaching music at one of the six schools she visited each week. by David Shanahan Although the Department of Education’s campaign to consolidate the rural one-room schools largely failed to gather support after 1919, it did not cease. The population of the rural districts continued to decrease as people moved to the jobs and opportunities of the urban areas. Many of the one-room schools in North Grenville found their enrolment dropping, in some years it was impossible to open a school because of the shortage of both pupils and certified teachers. The advantages of a consolidated school seemed obvious to many in the Department, but resistance to change ran very deep in the rural areas. Parents and taxpayers alike opposed any loss of local control over their school and how it was to be run. That became the rock on which the entire consolidation scheme was foundering.
So, in the early-1940's, a compromise position was set forth by the Department, one which, they hoped, would appeal to local taxpayers and parents. Rather than close the oneroom schools, it was proposed that the administration of the schools in each township be unified under a single Board, which would make more efficient use of facilities, equipment and teachers in the township. This would mean, for example, that music classes could be provided in each school by one music teacher, who would travel from school to school in turn, to provide a wider curriculum for all the schools in the township. It was left to the Public School Inspector for Grenville County, Harvey Knight, to address the ratepayers of the townships to convince them of the advantages to be gained. In 1944, he sent an Open Letter to the ratepayers of Oxford Township in which
Literacy in Youth
by Anika Modi I wearily skimmed the page as I let out an exasperated sigh.My eyes indifferently darted past the flood of letters. September 24, 2026
I felt my mouth twitch just as I set the book down. A disturbing realization crossed my mind whilst the book lay sloppily upon my bed. I had read the same passage numerous times, yet I couldn't recall a single word. My attention had strayed like stragglers. Perhaps the book was too tedious. Or perhaps I had grown accustomed to videos that provided instant entertainment and consumed merely fifteen seconds of my time. In a world filled with A.I generated pas-
(North Grenville edition)
he laid out the financial and administrative benefits that would flow from the change. But, first, he was very anxious to assure people that consolidation was not the aim: “It should be understood here that a Township School Area does not mean consolidation of schools, nor does it mean that any schools will be closed necessarily. It is simply a more efficient unit of school administration”. He claimed that “It is a simple matter to have one formed. The Township Council merely passes a bylaw stating that certain school sections shall be united into a Township School Area. If a Township Area were formed this year, each school joining would receive a grant of $150 extra this year”. Inspector Knight and his colleagues were very persuasive, as the proposition was adopted and the first radical change in school administration in Oxford and South Gower was introduced by 1946. It was a province-wide success: before the Township School Area system was introduced, there were 5,747 School Sections in Ontario, each with its three trustees trying to maintain a building, provide an adequate curriculum and hire qualified teachers, based on local taxation. By 1948, there were 499 Township School Areas in operation, sharing equipment, facilities and staff, and attempting to give rural area students something close to what the urban and consolidated schools were providing. Jean Joyner, later Jean
Newans, was a young teacher of music who now found herself travelling from school to school throughout Oxford, South Gower and Kemptville, giving classes in six different schools every day, three days a week. This was the kind of benefit that came from the Township School Area approach to education: a wider curriculum for children, a sharing of assets and facilities among the old school sections, and an integrated administration that allowed for more efficient and cost-effective operation. The benefits of the Township School Area were obvious to many, and the first breech in the dam protecting local control of each school had been made. The school buildings themselves were getting run-down and harder to maintain. Enrollment was dropping and the inequality of opportunity for children living in the more remote school sections was blatant. Between 1948 and 1960, the one-room schools were being consolidated across Ontario at the rate of between 150 and 200 one-room schools being closed per year. The end, when it came, was quite fast, in fact. In 1960, half of all elementary schools in the province were the old one-room variety, employing 10% of all teachers and educating almost 10% of the pupils. By 1964, they were almost all gone, closed down in favour of large Public Schools. The day of the old oneroom schoolhouse was over.
by David Shanahan (This may also be called “Which way you goin’ Billy?”. With all of the existential dangers facing us these days, from AI going rogue, to Trump just being Trump, I hate to break the news that there is yet another, possible, serious danger coming at us. Having waited for what seems like generations, the four-lane County Road 43 is almost upon us. Why is this a threat to life and limb? Let me ask you: have you traversed the many roundabouts (traffic circles in some,,, eh, circles) recently? You may have noticed that there is an alarming number of vehicles on the roads of North Grenville with defective electronics. It seems many, if not most cars and trucks don’t have working indicators. You know, those flashing orange lights that are meant to let other traffic know which way you intend to turn. They fail to work when a vehicle is about to turn a corner, or else they only start working as the vehicle starts the actual turn. This can result in the turning vehicle getting rammed from behind by an unsuspecting driver who was, idiotically perhaps, expecting that flashing light to inform him of the other driver’s intentions. Roundabours have really become a circle game: which way you goin’ Billy? Who knows? Are they going straight through the roundabout, or are they going to turn right imme-
sages and compact reels do we even take the time to enjoy a novel or write passionately? Platforms such as Instagram and Tiktok supply us with fulfilling entertainment and dopamine spikes that keep us watching for hours on end. Although these videos are gratifying, they promote short spurts of information rather than sustained intentness. Furthermore, recent government analysis has noted a significant descent in literacy skills regarding teenagers within
Canada. An acclaimed evaluation known as OECD PISA had results demonstrating mediocre outcomes for 15 year old Canadians. Even mentioning that the latest performance was the lowest level recorded in Canada However,there are several ways we can combat this issue including: joining reading clubs, dedicating at least 20 minutes to reading per day and visiting libraries more frequently. Our local North Grenville library offers many programs such
as engaging book clubs for teens and tweens as well as a reading program for younger ages. Additionally this year, they hosted a literature competition within our community . These opportunities encourage youth to develop a taste for literacy. Although these proficiencies are degrading, there is still time to reform these competencies and promote them further.
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diately, or go three-quarters round and then turn off? It’s a fun game trying to decide, especially when you’re waiting to join the circle, but don’t know if or when it may be safe to do so. Believe it or not, there are rules, even laws, which explain precisely when you need to let others know your intentions. They also point out that those on the roundabout have the right of way, and that vehicles wishing to join the circle fun have to wait until the coast is clear. Here, again, is when not signalling causes confusion for the would-be entrants into the circle game. It’s hard to tell if that car careening around the roundabout is going to keep coming, or suddenly veer off on a side road. Exciting, isn’t it? Not really. At least people have stopped turning left at a roundabout, instead of going around the thing. For a while, that was yet another amusing aspect of the game. But think what’s coming when those same roundabouts contain four lanes of traffic. Which lane should you be in if you’re going straight through? Which one is for those going three-quarters of the way around, etc.? If people aren’t using their indicators, this could be tricky. If they don’t know when or how to use them, it could worse. When the time comes that we are blessed (?) with the open four-lane 43, we can publish a guide for those eager to play the game according to the rules. That should make it safer, perhaps. Of course, I’m not yet convinced that some of the stretches of four-lane are really wide enough for four lanes. I’m assured that they are, and time will certainly tell. Another wrinkle in the Circle Game North Grenville edition.
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Youngsters of Yore. Meet every Thursday at NG Library September 17th, Chris Morgan Musician September 24th Roger and Janet Stark NB Trip NORTH GRENVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB Meets from 7 - 9 PM on the 1st Wednesday of each month (Sept - June) at Grenville Mutual Insurance, 380 Colannade Dr., Kemptville. Welcoming photographers of all skill levels. Email contact@ ngphotoclub.ca for more info. Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company presents the Tony award winning musical Something Rotten Sept 26 Oct 10 at the Urbandale Arts Centre in Kemptville. Come out and see this fantastic show with some amazing talent. KEMPTVILLE LEGION BINGO, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 1-3 pm. Doors open at noon. NEW - Kemptville Legion Evening Bingo, every third Sunday of the month from 6:30-8:30 pm. Doors open at 5:30 pm 2ND ANNUAL LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET taking place at the Kemptville Legion on October 25 from 10-3. Both the Upper and Lower floors of the Legion will be filled with local artisans, and everyone is invited to come and support our local artisans.
KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE is open Monday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm daily for drop-in programming. Ages 11 to 19. Jr. Youth Night 2nd Monday of the month from 6pm to 8pm. Ages 8 to 11. No pre-registration required. All programming at KYC is FREE. Follow us on Facebook to view other scheduled events and programs. KEMPTVILLE LEGION: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome NG DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptivlle, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155 FRIENDSHIP LUNCHES are offered to everyone every Friday. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship and fellowship at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome. NG COMMUNITY MEALS ASSOCIATION Every Tuesday, 4-7 PM Free or by Donation Dinner ( serving dinner until 6:30 pm) Where: Pvt. Blake Williamson Memorial Hall, (Old Fire Hall) 25 Reuben Cres.Everyone is welcome. Bring clean indoor shoes FRIENDSHIP CAFÉ is open to the community Tuesday's from 10 to noon. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a hot beverage, a sweet treat and some friendly conversation all at no cost. At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. TUESDAY COMMUNITY HUB hosted by the House of Lazarus All are welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, community services assistance are just a few of the weekly September 24, 2026
programs. Stop by and visit or contact House of Lazarus directly at 613-9893830 for more details. Upstairs at St. John's United Church at 400 Prescott St. MODERN SQUARE DANCING in Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:00 - 9:30pm. North Grenville Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Robert Taylor (613) 853-5634, or email grenvillegremlins09@gmail. com. NORTH GRENVILLE MEN’S SHED We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 8:30 to 10:30, at 2 Oxford St. West. Contact northgrenvillemensshed@gmail.com for more information. KEMPTVILLE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. They are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church. NG PRIDE: 2SLGBTQAI+ Seniors and allies meet 2 - 4pm the first and third Sunday of each month at the NG Library. Join us for coffee, chat, cards and shenanigans. Looking to stay connected, informed, and inspired in retirement? JOIN THE PROBUS CLUB OF NORTH GRENVILLE a friendly group of retirees who meet monthly for conversation, laughter, and thought-provoking presentations. Gatherings take place the third Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Hall. For details, email n.g.probus97@gmail. com CAREGIVER COFFEE is a welcoming monthly drop-in for caregivers to pause, connect, and feel supported. Join us the last Tuesday of each month from 1–3 PM at Beth Donovan Hospice. Free, casual, and open to all caregivers. JOIN NORTH GRENVILLE TOASTMASTERS! Build confidence. Improve communication. Become a better leader. We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., in person at 215 Sanders Street, Suite 200, or via Zoom. Guests are always welcome. Come discover your voice! EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, August 4, 18, September 1, 15, 29. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, July 28, August 11, 25, September 8, 22. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. SPEED EUCHRE 10X10 at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, September 20. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m. 10x10 means you play 10 games with as many euchre hands as you can within 10 minutes per game, for unlimited points. Stick the dealer: if everyone passes, the dealer must call a trump suit.
ACROSS 1. Whoopsie 5. Kiss and cuddle 9. Standard 13. Pesky insect 14. Glacial ice formation 16. Component used as fertilizer 17. Diversion 18. Spin 19. Blue-green 20. School assignment 22. Astronomer's tool 24. "Oh dear!" 26. Tropical vine 27. Shade of red 30. A crucial stage 33. Excess 35. Canvas dwellings 37. Stitch 38. Lacquer ingredient 41. Soak (up) 42. Exchange 45. Despot
48. A cruel ruler 51. Without hesitation 52. Evade 54. Trudge 55. Has 59. Fad 62. Absorbed 63. Medieval sword 65. At the peak of 66. African sheep 67. Soft leather 68. Zero 69. Millisecond 70. Celtic language 71. Tall woody plant
8. Tasty clove 9. Crank 10. Black-and-white cookie 11. Harvest 12. Not female 15. Cloudless 21. Tug 23. Agitated state 25. Anagram of "Site" 27. Lion's share 28. Forestall 29. Ever last one 31. Provoker 32. Milker's seat 34. Light Emitting Diode 36. Agile 39. Soviet space station 40. Frosts, as a cake 43. Forceful 44. Roof overhang 46. After-bath powder 47. One who adores 49. Snouts 50. Powder room paper 53. Discourage 55. Baby buggy 56. Paddles 57. Eject 58. Mats of grass 60. Area 61. Type of sword 64. C
DOWN 1. Brute 2. Duty 3. Corridor 4. Robber 5. Supersonic transport 6. Colorful salamander 7. Bay window
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
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The Voice of North Grenville
Making Nutrition Less Complicated at Kemptville Health Hub nutrition and other rehabilitation and wellness services. For Krystin, joining the Health Hub is an opportunity to work with local residents and help make nutrition feel less complicated and more achievable.
Kemptville Health Hub is bringing a multidisciplinary approach to health and wellness to the community, with services that include chiropractic care, nutrition, rehabilitation, acupuncture, soft-tissue therapy, exercise prescription and more. One of the newest members of the team is Krystin Paquette, Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer, who is passionate about helping people develop a healthy and sustainable relationship with food, fitness and overall well-being. Krystin brings an interesting combina-
Her background in both nutrition and exercise allows Krystin to take a well-rounded approach with her clients. She recognizes that nutrition, movement and lifestyle all play an important role in helping people feel their best.
support athletic performance, manage a health condition or simply become more confident and comfortable around food.
Outside of her professional life, Krystin is an avid equestrian and enjoys spending time at her farm in North Gower.
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tion of education and personal experience to her work. She holds a Bachelor of Kinesiology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science, specializing in Dietetics, from the University of Alberta. She has also competed at the highest level in sport, winning national titles in both wrestling and powerlifting.
She looks forward to becoming part of the Kemptville community and helping people take positive steps toward better health — one step, one meal and one habit at a time.
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Rather than offering a one-size-fitsall approach, Krystin works with individuals to develop realistic habits that can be maintained over the long term. She also provides meal plans and recipes designed to make healthy eating enjoyable — including recipes delicious enough that you might actually look forward to eating your vegetables!
Family Quality * Pre Owned Items
QUALITY FAMILY CONSIGNMENT
* Childrens New
207 Sanders Street, Kemptville 613.258.0166 www.tbcconsign.com
* Helium Balloons
Gift Ideas,
Pelvic Health & Whole-Body Care 28 Clothier Street East, Kemptville Tel:613-215-0400 Fax: 613-215-0994 Email: info@nestwellness.ca Tel: 613-215-0400 Fax: 613-215-0994 info@nestwellness.ca
Kemptville Health Hub, located at 148 Prescott Street, brings several health At Kemptville Health and wellness serHub, Krystin provides vices together under e v i d e n c e - b a s e d , one roof. The clinic personalized nutri- was established by tion care. Her clients Kemptville native Dr. McGahey may be looking to Michael improve their every- and offers chiropracday eating habits, tic care alongside
Registered Dietician Chiropractic Care Orthotics / Acupuncture 613-215-1495 or visit kemptvillehealthhub.com 148 Prescott St. Unit A, Kemptville September 24, 2026
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The Voice of North Grenville
Common Sense Health by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Last week we gave you a recipe for Marinated Tur- You can lose weight The Food Corner
Specializing in Residential House Beautification Weekly, Bi-Weekly, or One-time Cleans Servicing North Grenville and surrounding areas.
Jennie Childs Owner, CEO
613.314.6866
brightshinyspaces@gmail.com @BrightShinySpaces
Parks, Recreation, and Culture 10-Year Master Plan 2.0
Let’s Talk! Faciliti
receptors respond when the stomach expands, regardless of high-calorie or low-calorie food. Distending the stomach activates neural pathways involved in feeling full. It’s the intestines that are keeping track of nutrients. This is an old piece of biology. Other mammals have the same basic gutbrain communication system. Mice and rats are routinely used to study it, and similar mechanisms have been demonstrated in other mammals. We should pay it our respect. If you’d like to lose weight naturally, step on the scale and record the number. For two weeks, serve smaller portions at every meal. Then, eat slowly. Give the body time to send signals. Two weeks later, step on the scale again. This column offers opinions on health and wellness, not personal medical advice. Visit www.docgiff.com to learn more. For comments, diana@docgiff.com.
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GLP-1 and related signals also slow the movement of food through the digestive tract. The new generation of weight-loss drugs exploits this natural system. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, activates GLP-1 receptors, reducing appetite and slowing the emptying of the stomach. Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, reducing appetite and food intake while also slowing gastric emptying. One way or the other, the sensation is familiar to everyone who has pushed away a plate. Enough! But a person can eat a lot of food before those signals have had time to arrive and be interpreted. A fast eater can finish a big meal in ten minutes and still feel hungry. Another ten minutes and it would be different. Research has also revealed that the stomach responds to volume as well as calories. Stretch
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Ingredients • 5 cups of dried bread cubes • 1 tablespoon each of dry parsley flakes, sage and thyme • 2 apples, peeled, cored and cut into cubes • 12 chestnuts, split, boiled, peeled and cut into four pieces • ¼ cup of salted butter, melted • ¼ cup each of finely chopped green onions • 1 egg, beaten with a bit of milk • A dash of Worcestershire sauce • One container of unsalted chicken or turkey broth Preparation • Grease a baking dish (preferably glass) • Sauté the onions in a tablespoon of butter • Mix the onions and the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl • Heat the chicken or turkey broth to boiling point • Add enough chicken broth to moisten the mixture but not make it mushy • Supplement your broth with water, if needed • Place your mixture in the greased baking dish and cover the top with foil • In the last hour of cooking your turkey, cook in the oven covered for 30 minutes • Remove the foil and cook for another 15 minutes, to brown the top Bring the pan as is to the table or turn out into a favourite serving dish to accompany your turkey. Next week, we will look at some variations on Cranberry Sauce. All the best of the fall season from pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
don’t know it. Maintaining a trim waistline is a very good goal. Yet, many have let the middle region grow! But three times a day or more, we have opportunities to reduce the risk of developing a long list of diseases. The human body possesses mechanisms designed to prevent overeating. But a fast-paced and convenient lifestyle doesn’t give the mechanism a chance. Here’s how it works. As food is eaten, the walls of the stomach start to stretch. Sensors in the stomach detect that stretching and begin sending signals to the brain. These signals travel through the vagus nerve, a major communication highway between the gut and brain. As food reaches the small intestine, additional hormones including cholecystokinin, peptide YY and GLP-1 are released. These hormones have several jobs, but one is to tell the brain that nutrients have arrived and that more food is not required.
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Chestnut and Apple Stuffing
b Lynne Clifford-Ward Pills, pills, pills. Any doctor not encouraging patients to protect health with their own fortitude first is a doctor who has underestimated the patient. Don’t be complacent if this is your doctor. An astounding majority of North Americans are dismantling their health. I won’t quibble with definitions of what constitutes being overweight or obese. But I am comfortable saying that about seven in ten of us are carrying extra pounds. And I have zero concerns with saying that extra pounds take their toll. Furthermore, with few exceptions, we each have what it takes to shed those pounds. But people like to complain. They abandon their willpower. They don’t learn what they can do to get back in better form. And now they just pop another pill. When a large majority of people are succumbing to quick and artificial fixes, our society changes, and not for the better. I want to live in a world where the basics are held sacred, including moderate, clean, sustainable and healthy consumption of nutritious food. We need to fight back against trends undermining our personal responsibility for our own health. If the medical community won’t do it, then let’s explain basic physiology to children, teens, and any adults who
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key. You may have noticed that we didn’t stuff it. That’s because we much prefer stuffing that is cooked outside of the turkey. This makes for much easier carving of the bird, serving that is less messy, and also, the possibility of having stuffing with any turkey leftover. Stuffing that has been cooked inside a bird is not safe to consume the next day due to the possibility of salmonella. Here is our recipe for Chestnut and Apple Stuffing. Just adjust for the number of people you have at your Thanksgiving table.
il s a r s T Park
Share your perspective on priorities in parks, recreation, and culture facilities and services as we plan for the next 10 years! Public Input/Open House Sessions
Thursday, October 1st 2-4 pm and 5-7pm
North Grenville Municipal Centre, Suite A
Take the survey!
Community Survey available online now at:
northgrenville.ca/prcmp Closes Nov 1
September 24, 2026
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The Voice of North Grenville
Local Optometrist joins campaign to help ensure access to eyecare available to Who knows where the Times goes everyone worldwide Dr. C.L.Eamon in Kemptville is joining optometrists across North America this October 8th for the 2026 World Sight Day Challenge — and bringing their community along for the ride. Now in its 20th year, the World Sight Day Challenge is Optometry Giving Sight's signature annual fundraising campaign, uniting practices, students, and supporters around a startling truth: more than 1.1 billion people in the world live with vision impairment that a simple eye exam and a pair of glasses could correct. The Campaign runs September 1 through October 31. On World Sight Day (October 8th), Dr. Eamon will donate to raise funds for OGSsupported programs that deliver primary eye care to communities where access has never existed. "I have supported Optometry Giving Sight for 20 years," says Dr. Eamon. "Preventable blindness is exactly what it sounds like—preventable. Every time our practice participates in the World Sight Day Challenge, we're putting that belief into action. This is why we became optometrists." Optometry Giving Sight Executive Director Donna J. Mikulecky sees the Challenge as a defining expression of what this community stands for. “This group understands, in their bones, what clear vision makes possible: the education, the independence, the opportunity. They see it in their patients every day. And they carry that understanding outward, into a world where more than a billion people have never had access to an eye exam or a pair of glasses. Their generosity is year-round, but during the World Sight Day Challenge it becomes something electric. We are deeply grateful to have them in our corner," she says. For more information about Optometry Giving Sight or to make a donation, go to givingsight.org. Dr. C.L Eamon’s clinic is located at Unit 3, 212 Van Buren Street, Kemptville, ON K0G1J0. Call 613-258-7438 or visit www.drcleamon.com to schedule an appointment.
September 24, 2026
Angela and Kelly Kennedy were visiting Vimy Ridge and, as our copy of the Times featured a photo of our Mayor, we also visited the Newfoundland Menorial in BeaumontHamel.
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