The Voice of North Grenville
The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 8,900 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca
October 1, 2026
Vol. 14 No. 38
Local Gymnastics Coach Wins Top Provincial Coaching Honour
OKTOBERFEST
BRUNCH & DINNER Sunday, Oct. 11th Seating 10:00, 10:30 12:00, 12:30 & later ADULTS $45 12 & UNDER $22
DINNER BUFFET 4:30 - 8PM 2110 County Rd 20, Oxford Station, ON Live Music
Follow Us
@lindenleafrestaurant
(343) 961-5065
October 1, 2026
Kemptville gymnastics coach Amanda Leang has been honoured with the 2026 Ontario Coaching Excellence Award, one of the province’s top coaching honours. Amanda was among 15 coaches recognized by the Coaches Association of Ontario, the Ministry of Sport, and Hydro One during National Coaches Week, which ran September 14–20. She was recognized for her dedication and thoughtful approach to coaching in gymnastics, ninja and cheer. Amanda is known for meeting athletes where they are, celebrating their progress and helping them build resilience, teamwork and self-confidence. Her creativity and commitment to safety have earned the trust of athletes,
life skills that can last a lifetime. With nearly two million people coaching sport across Ontario, and about 75 per cent volunteering their time, National Coaches Week provides an opportunity to recognize the many coaches who give their time to help others succeed. For Kemptville, Amanda's recognition is a reminder of the positive impact local coaches can have on young athletes and the wider community. The North Grenville Times would like to extend our congratulations to Amanda Leang on receiving the Excellence Award. We have had the pleasure of watching Amanda grow up in this community and seeing, over the years, the commitment she has made
parents and fellow coaches, while her willingness to mentor other coaches has strengthened the organization as a whole. The awards were presented September 19 at BMO Field in Toronto during the CFL game between the Toronto Argonauts and Edmonton Elks. Each recipient also receives funding to purchase new equipment to help keep sport safe, accessible and affordable. This year's recipients were selected from nominees representing more than 32 sports and 46 communities across Ontario. The Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards recognize the important role coaches play not only in developing athletes, but in helping young people build confidence, resilience and
1
to helping others. Volunteering and giving back to the community have always been an important part of the Leang family, something Amanda has clearly inherited from her mother, Mary Anne Leang, who has also given countless hours to community activities over the years. Amanda has been a familiar face to the North Grenville Times for many years. She has often reached out to us with stories and articles about local activities and the organizations and people she cares about. It has been wonderful to watch that young community volunteer grow into a coach who is now making such a positive difference in the lives of young athletes. Her award recognizes not only her skills as a coach, but the patience, encouragement and commitment she brings to the young people she works with. For a community newspaper, there is something especially meaningful about seeing someone we have watched grow up go on to achieve something like this. Congratulations, Amanda. We are proud to have watched your journey and proud to call you one of our own.
2 1 CLEAR VISION. A BRIGHTER YOU.
FOR
TWICE THE STYLE Choose one. Get another.
*See store for details. Terms & conditions apply.
QUALITY BRANDS
STYLES FOR EVERY YOU
EXPERT CARE
PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
Kemptville Mall (613) 258-2700
"Proudly serving our Community"
Dan Pettigrew Owner & friendly neighbour T: 613.774.1958 Dan.Pettigrew@sobeys.com foodland.ca 12015 Main Street Winchester, ON
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Shalom Small Homes, Kemptville announces raffle winner by Marguerite Boyer It was a lucky morning for Diane Rioux of Ottawa, who is the winner of the latest Shalom Small Homes raffle The draw was held September 19 during the Kemptville Legion breakfast. Diane purchased her ticket at B&H while passing through the area — a reminder that sometimes a quick stop in our community can lead to a very happy surprise. Shalom Small Homes is grateful to everyone who bought a ticket and
helped support its ongoing work to provide safe, affordable homes for older members of the community. The project has already brought four small homes to Kemptville, and the organization is working toward building more. And the fundraising fun continues. The next Shalom raffle will feature a life size heron, perfect for adding a little character to your garden. This one is a collaboration between myself and Sharon Dean.
Congratulations to Diane, and thank you to everyone in the community who continues to support Shalom Small Homes. Every ticket, donation, volunteer hour and word of encouragement helps move this community project forward.
The Royal Canadian Legion: a Century of Service
The opening of the Legion Hall in 1957 by David Shanahan The Royal Canadian Legion is celebrating 100 years of servcie to veterans and the wider community in 2026. After the First World War, when over 650,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders served and distinguished themselves in key battles, including Ypres, Vimy Ridge, and Passchendaele, the returning veterans naturally wanted to stay in touch and honour their camrades who did not come home. There were so many wounded, physically and mentally, and support available to them was limited. Sp veterans came together in their own associations, some by regiment or local region, others with a shared concern, such as war amps. Of all of these, the most numerous and widespread across the country was the Great War Veterans’ Association (GWVA), which eventually led to the creation of the Royal Canadian Legion in 1926. A branch of the GWVA was established in Kemptville in the Fall of 1931. In April, 1932, a report appeared in the local newspaper that a Social Night and election of officers in
Art in the Garden MAG Studio Tour October 3,4 10am - 5pm
Fall Clearance Sale 30-50% OFF!
Open to October 31 9am-5pm Everyday 613-258-3797
rideauwoodlandramble.com
7210 Burritt’s Rapids Road, Merrickville October 1, 2026
2
a new branch of the Royal Canadian Legion would be held at which the charter for the new branch would be presented. Branch President T. H. Pearson invited all veterans in the district to come along to the charter night and bring another veteran along with them. Kemptville Legion No. 212 received its Charter from the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League, as it was called back in 1932. The branch had gradually gathered members from the region and was officially chartered on April 16, 1932, but it was some months later before the formal presentation of the Charter took place at a special banquet in the Armouries, now the Pte. Blake Williamson Memorial Hall, on October 24, 1932, when the thirty members of the Branch were joined by representatives of the national and Ottawa branches of the Canadian Legion to mark the event. The Charter was formally presented by Captain W. P. Grant to the President of the Branch, Walter Tuck. The newly-chartered Branch held the first Poppy Day that November. But the aim
was to have a dedicated building for the Legion in Kemptville, and the town’s municipal council donated a tract of land across from the Armoury for that purpose. Roy Brown, historian of the Legion and local veterans, noted in one article how the Branch worked to bring about their new home: “A group of Legion members began sourcing materials and building supplies to commence erecting the building. It is interesting to note that the majority of the lumber and other building materials came from a military “H” hut at a former Canadian Army Camp in Brockville, Ontario. The building was dismantled piece by piece and transported to the Kemptville Legion site. Volunteer labour, in-kind donations and fundraising were essential in covering the costs to erect the Legion Building.” The new building was officially opened on July 6, 1957, both the anniversary of D-Day in World War Two, and part of the Town of Kemptville’s Centenary Year celebrations. Over the years, majoe atlerations have been made in the original building to increase its capacity and to provide what was called an Auditorium along with kitchen facilities. The Auditorium was later renamed the Upper Hall and, in March, 2024, was officially designated the “Veterans Memorial Hall”, It has been a place of commemoration, celebration, and fellowship for almost 70 years, fulfilling the mission of the Royal Canadian Legion. www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
OKTOBERFEST BRUNCH & DINNER ADULTS $45 12 & UNDER $22
Live Music
HOT TABLE
TURKEY, STUFFING,GRAVY Bratwurst Sausage, Bacon, Schnitzel, Sauerkraut, Gravy
FRESH TO ORDER
SALAD STATION
Apple Strudel, Tiramisu, Cheesecake, Assortment of Cakes, Fresh Fruit
Devilled Eggs, Fresh Greens Assorted Salads Salmon
Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, Omelettes, Eggs your way
DESSERTS & FRUIT
Sunday, October 11th Seating 10:00, 10:30 12:00, 12:30 & later DINNER BUFFET 4:30 - 8PM
2110 County Rd 20, Oxford Station, ON • (343) 961-5065 • Follow Us @lindenleafrestaurant More than a Legion
Andrew Wilder, MOM, CStJ, FRSA, receives a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of the Kemptville Legion, presented by Councillor Kristen Strakerjan on behalf of the Municipality of North Grenville.
by Marguerite Boyer The Royal Canadian Legion is approaching an important milestone, but its story is about much more than looking back. The organisation was officially formed in 1926, bringing together veterans' groups from across Canada. Its orginal purpose was to support Veterans and their fami-
lies, advocate for those who had served and ensure that the sacrifices of those who served their country would never be forgotten. Six years later, in 1932, Kemptville received its own Legion Branch 212. Over the decade, the Legion has become part of the woven fabric of our community. While Remem-
brance remains at the heart of its work, today's Legion is also about helping people, supporting local organizations and providing a place where the community can come together. Over the years, the North Grenville Times has had many opportunities to work with the Kemptville Legion. We have covered their events, shared their news and worked with their volunteers on stories and community activities. Each time, we have found the people at the Legion welcoming, helpful and genuinely interested in their community. They do so much. That personal experience has given us an appreciation for something that can sometimes be overlooked, much of what the Legion does happens quietly. Donations, fundraising, the support for
local causes, help for Veterans and their families, community events and countless volunteer hours add up to a huge contribution to North Grenville. For many people, however, the Legion may still be seen simply as Veterans Way or as the place we visit on Remembrance Day. There is much more to it than that. The Legion is made up of people who believe in giving back. It provides a place for Veterans to connect, but it also welcomes the wider community through events, activities and partnerships with local organisations. As we look at the history of Branch 212, we also want to look at the Legion as it is today, the people behind it, the work they do and the difference they make in North Grenville. I can't stress this enough. Because perhaps the best way to honour the Legion's history is not simply to remember what it has done, but to make sure our community understands what it is still doing today. The Legion is open to all. So please feel free to drop in and say hello. Get to meet these wonderful volunteers who are and have shaped the past and shaping the present.
World Sight Day Challenge Raffle
You Could Win: 1) A Pair of Maui Jim Sunglasses: NON-Prescription or 2)A Complete pair of Glasses Centennial Encore Labpack: Progressive or Single Vision, Index 1.64 & under with High End Scratch Resistance, Anti-reflection & UV Coating with Blue Blocker or Transitions or 3)A Pair of Prescription Lenses Riverside: Progressive, Office or Single Vision Persona Pro Lens Anti Fatigue, Index 1.64 & under with High End Scratch Resistance, Anti-reflection & UV Coating with Blue Blocker or Transitions $10.00 per Ticket, Friday October 30th, 2026 Exceptions Apply: See Staff for more details. World Sight Day Challenge GUESS the Number Of Jellybeans $2.00 per Ticket Dr. C.L. Eamon, Optometrist 212 Van Buren Street Kemptville, ONT. K0G 1J0
culverts
Marketing / Sales CONTACT marketing@ ngtimes.ca
613.215-0735 The Voice of Our Community October 1, 2026
3
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Editorial
Where do the children play? by David Shanahan As I write this, I can hear the sound of kids laughing as they kick a ball about on a green space outside the house I’m in. It seems like a long time since I heard that kind of sound. I don’t know about you, where you grew up, or when, or where (or even if you have), but when I was young, we played out in the street, chasing around, playing games like Relievio, or Red Rover, activities that are probably long forgotten now, like the old nursery rhymes and chants kids used to sing when skipping rope. No, this is not a nostalgia piece. It just got me thinking about how different the lives of kids are to what they were for other generations. The rash of laws being introduced around the world to limit access to social media in all its forms to children under a certain age undermines the fact that we, as a society, have finally started to realise how damaging out neglect of the topic has been to children and grandchildren.
When was the last time you saw kids kicking a ball around in a field, or playing in a playground, aside from in organised sports or when out with their parents? Sitting in a coffee shop, or riding on a bus, how many people are reading an actual book or newspaper, and how many are staring at a screen? Even at home, each person has their own screen in which to become absorbed. In public, we have stopped being able to have conversations about what we all saw on tv last night, because we’re all watching something different on a different streaming network. What was once seen as a wonderful freedom we were given, no longer chained to a few networks that chose what we got to see. Now we can watch anything we like, but we all seem to like different things at different times, with some rare exceptions. Life has become more scheduled. Very little spontaneous play, more organised sports and activities through leagues and clubs. That’s great if you’re into, or good at, sports. In the past, everyone could get to play, regard-
less of how good or bad you were. You just may have been picked last for a team, but you got to play. But, if you’re not good, you won’t get involved in a formal team, in case you’re rejected as not being good enough. Life has its moments. But it’s not just kids and sports. I’ve been amazed at so many people visiting beautiful places, watching historical events, or seeing magnificent scenery, but they’re not realy there. They’re taking a picture, or a video, remaining at one remove from the moment. I understand wanting to keep a record, but how often do they actually watch the video again? I know I have thousands of photographs that I have rarely looked at more than once, and some I forgot I even had. I think it’s called “being in the moment”. I saw a great example of that here in Dublin the other day. The band U2 were celebrating 50 years together (50!) And went back to the school where they formed to play for the pupils and staff and friends. It was unexpected and quite remarkable. But
Before we cast our votes by Marguerite Bpyer As we approach this year’s municipal election in North Grenville, I believe it is important that we get to know the people who have put themselves forward to be elected. But perhaps even more important, we need to know whether they understand the issues facing this community, particularly the rapid growth we are experiencing. There is a lot to understand. And while there are certainly many residents who are frustrated with what is happening in North Grenville, frustration does not necessarily give us the whole picture. It is easy to sit behind a keyboard and criticise County Road 43, development, traffic, council, and just about everything else that we find wrong with our community. But how many of us have actually taken the time to understand how we got here? I have lived in North Grenville for more than 30 years. And because I live with a historian who has written many articles for October 1, 2026
this newspaper over the past 14 years, I have had the opportunity to learn a great deal about the history of this community and the decisions that helped shape the North Grenville we know today. That history matters I also remember a very different North Grenville. There was a time when microphones at council meetings could be turned off when the mayor did not like what was being said. I remember when David Shanahan challenged council on this, his microphone was turned off and, when he continued to speak, he was escorted from the meeting by police. I remember a council that later sent a letter to the public stating that our newspaper had no right to criticise council and that members of the community did not have that right either. Those are not things I have forgotten. I also remember when community grants were cut off by a previous council. So, when I look at North Grenville today, I don't only see the things
that are wrong. I also see things that have changed for the better. The present council has made itself accessible to the community in a way that I believe is important. Community groups have been able to approach council, and community grants have once again become an important part of supporting local organisations and initiatives. I would like to see that continue, regardless of who sits around the council table after this election. Being accessible to the people you represent should not be considered a special achievement. It should be part of municipal government. And criticism should not be treated as an attack. A newspaper's job is to ask questions. A community's job is to ask questions. And elected officials should be prepared to answer them. That does not mean every criticism is fair or every complaint is correct. But people have the right to question their government. Growth did not begin with the current council. It has been hap4
one journalist, writing about the gig, made the point that, because cell phones have been banned at the school, no-one was looking at the band through a screen. They were all present in the moment, and their energy and participation made it something really special. William Wordsworth wrote about this in 1802, which, I suppose, means that it is a much older malady than I thought. In his poem “The World Is Too Much With Us”, Wordsworth bemoaned the fact that we have cut ourselves off from the natural world. We’ve replaced concrete for nature, the sight, sounds and smells of sea and wind and water for artificial things. In our day, we are in danger of losing even that slender link to reality as we sink into the unreality of Artificial Intelligence. What Wordsworth wrote, in part, was: “The world is too much with us; late and soon, Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers;— Little we see in Nature that is ours;” That, I suppose, is what I’m really concerned about.
We began by playing, then we started watching others playing instead. Then we organised the playing and took much of the spontaneity and, possibly, much of the fun out of it. Then, instead of just watching, we put a phone or camera between us and the watching, not seeing the “live” event, just the recorded memory of it, a memory we might never revisit. But a direct experience, that is completely different. And it was Wordsworth again, in a different poem, “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”, who describes how the sights and sounds of the beauties of the world are relived afterwards, not through a lens of glass and not through technology, but through the “inward eye”. He had been entranced by the simple sight of a field of daffodils, much as many recently have been entranced by a field of sunflowers, and he says: “For oft, when on my couch I lie In vacant or in pensive mood, They flash upon that inward eye Which is the bliss of solitude;
pening for years. North Grenville has changed from the community I first knew, and many of those changes were welcomed. We wanted more businesses, more services, more shopping and more housing. I am sure many of the people who now complain about growth have also enjoyed some of what that growth brought us. We have to be honest with ourselves about that. It is easy to criticise a new development, or complain about traffic on County Road 43. It is more difficult to understand the planning decisions, infrastructure requirements, provincial rules, economic pressures and previous decisions that brought us to this point. And that is one of the reasons we have been interviewing the candidates running in this election. Because municipal government is complicated. If we are going to ask people to make decisions on behalf of this community, they need to understand the rules and responsibilities that come with municipal
government. They need to understand infrastructure, development, housing, taxation, roads and the financial realities of a growing municipality. And they need to understand the history that brought us here.That does not mean we should stop questioning council. We should question council. We should challenge decisions we believe are wrong and demand answers when we don't understand something. But we should also challenge the people asking for our votes. Over the coming weeks, the North Grenville Times will continue introducing you to the candidates. We will give them an opportunity to tell you who they are, what they believe and what they would like to accomplish if elected. All interviews have been approved by those running before going to print. We have no specific order of preference when publishing their articles. We are not here to tell you who to vote for. That is your decision. But I do
And then my heart with pleasure fills, And dances with the daffodils.” Yes, we’ve made great progress with technology and opening the world to more experiences. But Cat Stevens, to give him the last word, asks the question and it’s worth going back and listening to the song: “I know we've come a long way, We're changing day to day. But tell me, where do the children play?” Just a few thoughts on life, the universe and everything.
Letter to the Editor Dear Editor A wonderful community After a serious fall at home and spending 12 days in the KDH, I would like to commend the compassionate and professional Staff. The nurses, meals,and cleaning services in the isolation section laboured to maintain a level of care second to none. Reaching home the kindness continued when members of a local congregation unexpectedly arrived at the door with a fresh bouquet. We are so fortunate in North Grenville Maureen Harrison believe that before we cast our votes, we owe it to ourselves and to this community to become informed voters. North Grenville is growing. That is a fact. Whether we like the pace of that growth is another question. But blaming the current council for everything that has happened over the past several decades will not help us understand where we are going. Nor will social media posts, angry comments, or repeating something we heard from someone else. We need to look at the facts, we need to understand our history, and we need to listen carefully to the people who are asking us to put their names on the ballot. After 30 years of living here, I have learned that North Grenville is a complicated place with a complicated history. There are no simple answers. But there are people willing to ask the questions. And as voters, I believe that is where we should start.
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Where to meet the Candidates Oct 13
Municipal election 2026. Interviews with the candidates for council
John Barclay
Burritts Rapids / Oxford Mills All-Candidates Meeting Time: 7:00 PM Location: Burritts Rapids Community Hall, 23 Grenville St., Burritts Rapids Organizer: Drew Avis, Chair BRCA
Oct 15
Meet the Candidates Time: 6:00 PM Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville Organizer: Downtown BIA
Oct 20
Bishop’s Mills All-Candidates Meeting Time: 7:00pm Hosted by the Bishop’s Mills Community Association, the event will follow a structured format with candidates being given a time to speak and questions from the audience. The event will include a moderator and a timekeeper, and end by approximately 9:30 pm, followed by refreshments and visiting. Location: Bishop’s Mills Community Hall, 38 Main Street, Bishop’s Mills
bt David Shanahan John Barclay has quite the resume in terms of community involvement. Having served as Chair of the Oxford Mills Community Association, Executive Director of the BIA, and sitting on the 2014 Economic Development Advisory Committee, among other things, he was elected to Council and has served two terms, the last as Deputy Mayor. He sat down with the Times and spoke about his priorities in running for a third term. “What planks am I running on? Community cohesion, building connections between people. That’s what the small-town feel is all about. It’s not about looking down the street and seeing a quaint little village, it’s about being able to meet people at the Farmers Market, or at the Community Dinner, speaking to people at the store, those are the
Terry Byrd private sectors.
by Marguerite Boyer For Major (Ret’d) Terry Byrd, CD, MA, North Grenville is not an unfamiliar place. His grandparents lived in Oxford Mills, on a farm in around Oxford Station, he recalls visiting them frequently as a young person. Those memories, he says, are part of what eventually brought him back to the community. He recently retired from 32 years of loyal service to the Crown, and deployments to Afghanistan and Middle East. During his career, he worked in financial management and strategic program management in both the military and October 1, 2026
Terry moved on to complete his education at Carleton and other educational institutions, and worked full time in the Private Sector. After living in Barrhaven, Terry became increasingly concerned about the pace and scale of development there. In November of last year, he moved to North Grenville and purchased a home in the first phase of Oxford Village. It was not simply a return to a community he loved, but one where his parents were born. His grandfather Sandford operated his own buses and grandmother Cora, worked at the Ferguson Tree Farm. Today, Terry is concerned about the amount and pace of development taking place in North Grenville and questions whether growth is being planned carefully enough. It is natural to grow and prosper, but planning and building must keep to the country narrative of a modern community where green grass grows, farmers feed us, and business thrives because our heritage can be
things that are top of mind for me. But Community cohesion is not just about those spaces where people can meet one another, and get to know one another, it’s also about physically connecting. Different things in North Grenville are growing at different rates, and what we haven’t done a good job on is physically connecting those subdivisions.” After serving on five advisory committees in his first term, he decided to focus during the second term on Arts, Culture, Heritage, and the Downtown. “Then I threw in drainage, as there’s still lots to do in that area to be prepared for extreme weather events. There’s a lot of concern about droughts and floods, and I think there’s lots we can do to mitigate that by building more rural infrastructure for drainage.” What about the apparent emphasis that is being placed on Kemptville, as distinct from the rest of North Grenville? “All our branding material says ‘Kemptville and the Hamlets,’ and I think this council has really paid attention to the rural parts of the municipality, especially when it came to spending
that $100,000 ParticipAction money, we decided that all the recreational amenities in the hamlets needed either to begin or be refreshed or upgraded. And we have a Rural Affairs-Agricultural Advisory Committee: we didn’t have that prior to 2018. “And there are so many other committees that we didn’t have that are meeting on a monthly basis and executing a workplan. And what we’re hoping to see over the last weeks of this council are reports from those committees on their accomplishments over the last four years. What was your workplan and what were your successes, and what still needs to be done. “Near and dear to my heart is the Oxford Mills Township Hall, and I’m grateful that I’ve had support from Council and from staff on that. I want to see that through. Sometimes, given all this emphasis on the economy, Arts and Culture is sometimes devalued. But it is an economic driver. I’ve seen it. “I’m quite proud of the work that was done by the Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee. It produced more policy, more welldeveloped funding opportunities for Arts and Culture. This council has done great
things in supporting the heritage community: the Historical Society, for sure. A little bit of seed money for an independent Arts Council for North Grenville will hopefully provide a clearing house for ideas, sharing of resources. This is what I discovered when I moved here: there’s so much happening in arts and culture, but there was no coordinated central clearing house, fund raising expertise, an Arts Council, basically for music, theatre, writing poetry, etc.” NGT: Housing is a huge issue for this community. What has been done to provide better rental and affordable housing for residents, beyond single family homes? “There’s still a market for single family homes and the profit margins are still good. One thing I’m proud of is the Task Force on Affordable Housing that led to the Housing Strategy, and the fact that we are making great progress with providing the community with a housing mix, single family homes, and apartments. Before that we had, what, about seven rental apartments? The Housing Strategy identified 7% of our housing stock were rental units, and we’re fast approaching 12%, almost double that. And more
coming on-line too. We’re making this a place where more and more working class people can live.” NGT: What is the working relationship between Council and Municipal staff? “Council doesn’t interface with staff as much as people think; and when we do, it’s mostly at the Director level, the Senior Leadership Team. We rely on the CAO to manage things, like the corporate culture. We can make great progress on that by communicating effectively with the general public on all the various platforms by which people get their information. It is important that we, collectively, work at improving customer service through training and communicating, adopting integrated planning. We were the “Change” council, and we need to keep that change going, keep the momentum. Some change is easier, or more successful than others. For example, our aggregate policy hasn’t changed since the start of this century. Things take too long, the same Official Plan is in place, and the recent Interim Control Bylaw is going through the process. It takes time, and I’d like to get back on Council and finish more things.”
our greatest asset. He recognizes that North Grenville needs additional housing, but believes development should be considered with the municipality's long-term needs and taxpayers in mind. “I don't want to stop progress,” Terry says. “But infrastructure needs to keep pace.” He questions the trend toward increasingly dense development and says he would like to see more consideration given to greenspace. “We have a lot of area, so why do we need to pack all the lots together and cram in as many houses as possible?” The community's natural areas are one of the things he values most about North Grenville. He particularly enjoys the trails and Limerick Forest. At the same time, he recognizes that growth is inevitable and believes the challenge will be maintaining what residents value about the community while accommodating that growth in a managed way. He also points to North Grenville's history and the importance of preserving its connection
to the area's early settlers. Terry would like to see tourism given greater attention and believes his business background and experience working within government could be useful in pursuing economic opportunities for the municipality. He also points to relationships he has developed with politicians at other levels of government. Terry believes those relationships, and familiarity with each tier of government, will go a long way to help North Grenville meet its needs by having good relationships with all levels of government. One issue he raises is the Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex. He questions how the costs associated with the facility and related infrastructure will affect local taxpayers and believes the municipality should ensure that the province meets its long-term responsibilities. The provincial government has committed funding toward infrastructure associated with the facility, including up to $21.8 million for the expansion of North
Grenville's wastewater treatment plant. At the same time, questions about the municipal costs associated with provincial facilities have been raised in North Grenville for several years. Terry would be prepared to advocate for the municipality when dealing with other levels of government, “because I am not opposed to provincial investment, I am opposed to provincial responsibilities being downloaded as municipal liabilities”. Growth is clearly one of the issues driving his decision to run for council. He refers to surveys conducted by North Grenville where projections state this municipality could grow 70% by 2046. North Grenville needs to think now about what that growth means for infrastructure, roads, services, and the character and values of the community. He also believes the municipality needs to examine how its advisory committees are structured and whether the people serving on them have the appropriate experience
and qualities for the work involved. This is something he would want to look at if elected. He also has some ideas about how the community's history should be recognized. This means tourism must have a narrative that expresses who and what we are, and is the reason Terry would like to see portraits representing the King of Canada displayed prominently in government, municipal and educational buildings. Terry Byrd is seeking a seat on North Grenville Council at a time when the municipality is facing continued growth and decisions about infrastructure, housing, taxation and the preservation of community character. His campaign is centered largely on ensuring that growth is accompanied by careful planning and that North Grenville's interests are strongly represented when dealing with other levels of government.
5
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Municipal election 2026. Interviews with the candidates for council
Robert Leach
by David Shanahan The obvious question to ask anyone seeking a position of the North Grenville Council is: why are you running? Robert Leach has a definite and immediate response to the question. He was raised here, went to school at Oxford-on-Rideau, and North Grenville District High School. He has raised his family here and has been involved in his community all his life. As he put it: “I’ve grown up in the community, I have spent all my life here. I’ve raised my family here and I want to give back to the community”. That may seem easy to say, but Robert has the track record to prove it. His involvement local sports is a case in point.
“I played minor hockey growing up, then I got into the organisation later on as an equipment manager, and as vice-president for Storm hockey when my daughter joined Storm. My sons also went through minor hockey, so sports are all around me. My Dad used to work with the 73's for years. He used to run the clock for them. I’ve always been around sports, and always part of sports, within the community too.” He’s on the board of the Kemptville Warriors Basketball Association, where he serves as Treasurer. He is hoping that, should a Sportsdome arrive as planned, that it will provide more activities for young people in sports. “There are more families with kids moving into the area, and we need more space for them. And it’s not only for the kids, it’s for the adults, adult pickleball and things that are played in the gym and even now, with basketball, I notice it’s harder to get gym time for the kids and unfortunately, there’s only so many gyms here in North Grenville”.
As for being on council and working with other councillors and municipal staff, Robert believes his experience of working with the City of Ottawa would serve him well. “A lot of my background is in construction, development, so I have that to call on. I work in team environments all the time, whether through work in construction, or in sports. On a construction site, we are a team, project management, we are a team.” He understands that members of Council will disagree with each other on some issues, but, as he says, “we’re professionals, we get something done and move along”. His main point is that Council works for the people, not to push their own ideas. If the public wants to move in a specific direction, Robert believes that Council should move that way in response, relying on municipal staff to support and guide them along. “Obviously, I’ll have my own opinions on it, but, ultimately, for me, it’s the taxpayers we’re representing. So, if they want me to
push in a certain direction, then I’m going to push in that direction, even though I may not personally feel that way. But that’s what I’m there for, is the way I look at it.” Robert looks at the way in which his community has changed over his lifetime and wonders about the future growth that he feels is inevitable. “That has been a big issue, and it’s something I know is going to happen. I’d like to see the community stay small, but I’m realistic. It is going to grow. We can’t really stop it from growing, all we can do is help guide it and grow in the right areas, so we can keep that old heritage style of Kemptville and keep that small town feel. But I do feel that there are ways in which we can keep that old town feel as well as get the growth, which I think we also need, because we need tax dollars too.” The main questions he believes the next Council has to answer are: which areas do we want to grow in? How do we want to shape our community? Having seen some of the
problems North Grenville has experienced in the past, often due to poor planning by previous councils in the past, he thinks it is essential that Council continue to think seriously about these questions, identify what infrastructure needs are going to be in place to cope with future growth, and ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place before the growth happens. His work in construction and project management with the City of Ottawa, he feels, gives him a strong background and expertise in this area. At the centre of Council’s work in this field is the role of staff. Working with staff in a respectful and collaborative way is important. “I can’t tell them what to do. I can advise, make requests, communicate with them and get a good rapport with them. I understand that from where I work for the City of Ottawa.” But, ultimately, as Robert Leach says, the future holds its surprises too. “You don’t know what’s coming up, so you have to take it as it comes.”
TIMES Contact 613-215-0735
www.ngtimes.ca
ISSN 2291-0301
Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0
Editor David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735 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
Save the HST on your cremation pre-arrangement We're going EVEN MORE places!
Only until October 31. Save the equivalent of the HST on a Simple Choice Cremation pre-planning contract until October 31, 2026. What you get for that is simple: one price, agreed to now, paid on your terms — and peace of mind for your family. Cremation is the choice most Canadians are making. Making it in advance costs less and asks less of everyone in a time of need. To learn more, call:
Three ways to book rides:
343-321-6196
or scan this QR code.
On the Blaise app (found in the Apple or Google Play stores)
Limited Time Offer
Online: ride.blaisetransit.com Or call: 613-368-5620
simplechoicecremation.ca Owned and Operated by Arbor Memorial Inc.
northgrenville.ca/transit 6
October 1, 2026 CLIENT:
Arbor Memorial
BLEED:
NA
DOCKET:
D031730
TYPE SAFETY:
NA
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Tanya Deans
by Marguerite Boyer Raised in Burritt’s Rapids and a graduate of North Grenville District High School, Tanya returned to North Grenville to build her career and raise her family. A registered nurse and Manager of Clinical Programs at Kemptville District Hospital, Tanya has been involved in the hospital's clinical and surgical programs and has worked in healthcare leadership for many years. Her community involvement has also included the Municipality of North Grenville's Health, Wellness, Fitness and Active Transportation Advisory Committee, where she has served as a co chair for the last two terms. It is that combination of healthcare leadership experience, community involve-
ment and municipal committee work that Tanya says she would bring to Council. One of Tanya’s concerns and priorities is the rapid growth North Grenville is experiencing. Rather than looking at the issue in isolation, she has recently reached out to other communities that have experienced similar growth to learn how they managed it, what worked, what did not, and what they might have done differently. She says this research will help her better understand the challenges North Grenville is facing and the decisions that will be required as the community continues to grow. Another area she would like to see move forward is creating a more age friendly community. “There are some age-friendly initiatives that we can implement here,” she says, noting that ideas have already come forward through the advisory committee. But before deciding what should be done, she believes the municipality needs to hear directly from residents. “We need to engage with the community to find out where the gaps
A moment in time
by David Shanahan For the historian, a document will come along that provides a unique opportunity to look at a particular moment in the past and a snapshot of a society at a particular point in time become visible. Thanks to a man named Samuel Casey Wood, such a snapshot North Grenville in 1880 is available. Samuel Wood was the Commissioner of Agriculture for the Province of Ontario from 1875 to 1883, as well as being Provincial Secretary. In his Annual report to the Provincial Assembly in 1879, he suggested that a commission be established "to inquire into the agricultural resources of the Province of Ontario, the progress and conditions of Agriculture therein, and matters connected therewith." An Order-in-Council was passed on April 3, 1880, and the Commission got to work compiling an amazing set of statistics on the state of agriculture in each of Ontario’s counties. Questionnaires and circulars were mailed out to muOctober 1, 2026
nicipal offices requesting statistical data, and open hearings were held across the province in order that the committee might gather views and opinions. The commissioners also obtained evidence from the other provinces, the United States and Great Britain. The final Report, presented in 1881 gives that snapshot of the state of affairs in Grenville County in 1880, and it makes for fascinating reading. At the time, North Grenville was still separated into the Townships of Oxford-onRideau and South Gower, as well as the Village of Kemptville. The Report shows that Oxford had a population of 3,333, South Gower had just 883 residents. Wolford Township had almost 2,000 inhabitants, although residents of that township will be upset to note that the Commission referred to it as “Watford”, not Wolford.. It is interesting to note that, almost 80 years after the first settlers arrived, Oxford had only half of its land cleared for agriculture, although it was be-
are, identify where we can improve, and develop an action plan. I think that is our first step.” For Tanya, community planning also means looking at how people will move safely through North Grenville as the municipality grows. She has concerns about the proposed pit and the potential impact of increased heavy truck traffic on local roads. She says maintaining a good relationship with the United Counties will be important, particularly because County Road 20 is an important route through the community. The issue has already come before the advisory committee, she says, which has recommended that the Counties consider widening the road to improve pedestrian safety. “My focus is to keep our community safe as we grow.” Tanya also sees the proposed sports dome as an important addition to a rapidly growing community. It could provide residents with an alternative to hockey and skating during the winter, while also offering an indoor space for walking and other
activities. With provincial grants available for community infrastructure, she believes North Grenville should look at opportunities to make such projects possible. . Tanya is particularly proud of her involvement in the Health, Wellness, Fitness, and Active Transportation Advisory Committee's working group for the ParticipACTION Community Better Challenge. She says the community's wholehearted participation resulted in funding that could be returned to residents, and is thankful for recognition through a civic award. She believes the experience demonstrates the importance of having strong leadership within the advisory committees. “It is important to have engagement from advisory committee members to move things forward,” she says. She also feels the committee itself has continued to improve as its members learn from their experience. Asked how she would deal with differences of opinion around the Council table, Tanya says she is prepared for the challenge. Her
approach, she explains, is to look at decisions through three lenses: risk, financial impact and safety. “I would apply that same lens At the Council table, Tanya says she would bring that same thoughtful and practical approach, asking a straightforward question: “What best serves our community?”
SEND IN YOUR LETTERS TO editor @ngtimes.ca
lieved that about half of the uncleared land would be suitable for cultivation, if cleared. South Gower was even less cultivated, with only 3,629 of its 22,000 acres cleared, again with half of the uncleared land suitable for cultivation. Only half of the cleared land in South Gower was free of tree stumps. It was calculated that land could be cleared of stumps at an average rate of 1 acre per year. Perhaps it is a surprise to note that Oxford had more sheep than cows, almost a thousand horses, and 680 hogs. South Gower had more cows than sheep. The Commissioners asked what market facilities the townships enjoyed, and Kemptville is listed by both Oxford and South Gower as the nearest market. For South Gower, the Village was just half a mile away, and Oxford noted that Kemptville itself was just half a mile from the railroad, meaning the station at Bedell. As for local industries, South Gower reported that
they had “No industries excepting one cheese factory, situated at a place called Heckston”. Oxford was in a slightly better position, being able to boast of two cheese factories, “located at Oxford mills and Bishop’s mills”. Sadly, Wolford’s answer to what local industries they enjoyed was simply: “None”. Another interesting statistic from the Report is that both South Gower and Oxford remained wellcovered with trees. Oxford had 20,000 acres under trees, about one-third of the land, made up mainly of ash, elm, cedar, beech, maple and tamarack, which is described as good for “fencing and building purposes”. South Gower had about 8,000 acres of trees, much the same kind as Oxford, which were also used primarily for “firewood, fencing, and sawed into lumber”. Of the cultivated land, Oxford’s main crop was hay (8,000 acres), oats (7,000 acres), and Rye (5,000 acres). There were 1,000 acres each of potatoes, buckwheat, and peas.
The main crops in South Gower were oats (2,500 acres), spring wheat and barley (2,00 acres each) and hay (1,500 acres). Neither the farmers in Oxford nor South Gower used “salt, superphosphate, lime, plaster, or other artificial fertilizers” on their land. In both townships, 75% of farmers were using “improved farm machinery, reapers, mowers, seed drills, and sulky rakes”, whatever they were. The farms were progressive, it seems, and the farmers’ homes were 60% brick or stone in Oxford. However,
in South Gower, 92% of the houses were still log or “inferior frame” in construction. It is good to remember that, behind the dry statistics, lies innumerable stories of real people; men and women and children who lived and worked on the land we now share. With no electricity, no tv or internet, and very few modern luxuries, they were, at the time of the Commission Report, turning a forest into farms, building roads and communities that became the Municipality of North Grenville. Snapshots can tell many stories.
7
www.ngtimes.ca
The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville In the past couple of weeks, we have looked at recipes for Marinated Turkey and “out of the bird” Chestnut and Apple Stuffing. Cranberry Sauce usually accompanies your Thanksgiving offering and why not? The sweet and tart flavour of Cranberry offsets the rich foods usually drenched in gravy. So, here are a couple of options for Cranberry Sauce. Cranberry-Orange Sauce This is one of the easiest sauces to make: no cooking is needed. It simply involves rinsing one or two packages of cranberries, frozen or unfrozen then grinding them with two or three oranges with the rind on. You then simply mix in two to four cups of white granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add the sugar slowly to your mixture and taste as you go along. Some folks like their sauce sweeter, others more tart. Pour your sauce into sterilized Mason jars, refrigerate as much as you will need for Thanksgiving Dinner and freeze the rest for future use. Easy, peasy... Simple Cooked Cranberry Sauce For making up a cooked version of Cranberry sauce, place a package of cranberries that you have , thawed and rinsed in a largish sauce pan. Mix in a cup of orange juice and a cup of sugar. You can add just a smidgeon of nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let the cranberries break down. Eventually, the mixture will thicken. You can then pour into your sterilized Mason jars and refrigerate or freeze, same as for the uncooked version. Cranberry-Maple Sauce For being really Canajun, you can thaw and rinse a package of cranberries, dump them into your largish sauce pan and add ½ cup each of maple syrup and water. You can then mix in ¼ cup of orange juice and a couple of squirts of lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer as above and let the cranberries break down. Eventually, the mixture will thicken. You can then pour into your sterilized Mason jars and refrigerate or freeze, same as for the uncooked version. If the sauce isn’t sweet enough for you, just add some white granulated sugar. This sauce is lovely, served warm. I’ve never had any issues with brand-name cranberries but if you want to be extra careful, rinse them in a large pan and pick out any that don’t look right to you. The rest is up to you... Next week, we will look at Thanksgiving desserts. Cheers from pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
Common Sense Health
Who wants room temperature water? by Diana Gifford-Jones Have North Americans become accustomed to excessively sweetened beverages? That’s my theory after hosting guests from both Europe and Asia recently. Almost without exception, upon taking a sip of bottled iced tea, they remark on how sugary it is. One child declared it tasted “like syrup.” It’s no small concern that North Americans have come to prefer sweeter foods and beverages. We also tend to go for colder drinks, not those at room temperature, and that’s not helping. It’s a lesser-known fact that cold temperatures reduce the perception of sweetness. The colder the drink, the less sweet it seems. At corner stores where people shop for refreshment, it’s no small challenge to find selections not full of sugar. I have been in enough convenience stores around the world to be frustrated at October 1, 2026
what they offer in this part of the world. Zero nutrition. Garbage drinks, candy, chips, and fatty fast food. In a typical North American convenience store, stretches of refrigerated space are given over to soft drinks, sweetened iced teas, sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit drinks and flavoured beverages. Fifty per cent of the store may seem like an exaggeration, but it’s not far off, and the other half contains chips, candy and other highly processed food. By contrast, a convenience store in Japan offers a very different experience. You will find some sweetened drinks, but you will also find an astounding assortment of unsweetened green tea, barley tea, oolong tea, black coffee, sparkling water and plain water. Unsweetened tea is not a niche health product. It is a regular beverage. It’s a public health disaster that the North Ameri-
Baldwin's Birds
Northern Flicker red neck
A Northern Flicker of an eye
The Voice of North Grenville
Plein Air, painting to inspire
“Jack in the Pulpit” oil on birch panel 11x14 inches, by Aleta Karstad
What a lovely surprise on a sunny, rather much cooler, mid September 19th day. I was bewailing the absence of our Hummingbird, from her feeder, now dominated by wasps, and glanced down to look at our freshly mown grass. There, before my very eyes, was the bird I have been waiting to see all summer,- a very striking and distinctively marked Northern Flicker! Wow! There he was down amongst the grass, presumably picking up some of the seeds distributed there by the mower. He is of the Woodpecker family of birds, so insects and other bugs are more to his liking than seed is, so probably not too enticing for him to stay very long. His lovely colours were caught in the brightness of the day and made identifying him quite easy. What a plethora of colours there are too, when you look at them really closely. The bold black chest and black spotted white belly, along with the pinkish neck and face, as well as the red head/neck vee marking, not forgetting the lovely back wing feathers makes this a truly remarkable sight to see and one I’m glad I haven’t missed this year either! I presume that he, like the Hummingbird is on his way to warmer climes too. He only graced our garden and us, with his presence, for a very short time before disappearing, so that is my assumption, as to why he has only shown himself now. He seems to be alone and, in past years, when we have had them call in, it has been earlier in the year and there have been at least two, or three of them, and not just a “loner”! It would be nice to see more of them, but I doubt very much that we shall be so lucky, we can only hope, and see what comes our way and yours too. Having now reshuffled my bird feeders, minus the Hummingbird one, Yes, yet another season has flashed us by and the Hummingbirds have left us and are gone until next year. The Chickadees, Nuthatches and Woodpeckers soon caught on to the fact, that changes had taken place and are now enjoying the various feeders, at their will! At least with the sugar water source gone, so are the Wasps, so feeding can go on relatively unthreatened, for them all, thank goodness! Stay safe and well. Cheers, John Baldwin.
by Aleta Karstad Plein air means “fresh air” to the artist. Every outdoors painting is an adventure, from finding the right scene, to adapting my equipment and supplies to the physical features of the spot (making a temporary outdoors studio) and then coping with the conditions of weather, changing light and shadow, and INSECTS! My middle-distance and close up scenes are very labour-intensive. Being more complex than a distant scene, they are intimate, engaging, and challenging! But I guess the way I look at life, it’s hardly worth living unless there are challenges, and the self-imposed ones are the most gratifying :) Each on-the-spot painting teaches me something new, I notice how the light affects colours, and how to make a subject stand out more by applying light effects while dealing with the challenges of naturally changing light and shadow. After years of painting en plein air, now whenever I am constrained to paint in the studio, I am able to apply
what I’ve learned outdoors. After being tutored by real life subjects and situations, I’m better able to overcome the limitations of two-dimensional reference photos. I believe that onsite, plein air painting speaks loudest because it’s a real-time dialogue with the subject itself. The outdoors artist is immersed in time and place, and the work produced inspires the viewer in a way no studio landscape painting could. "In-spire,”- to breathein. Fresh air. It’s there in the painting! On October 5 at 7:00 pm, for the “first Monday of the month” Fragile Inheritance nature talk at the Community Hall in Bishops Mills, I will be giving a presentation on how I paint, show my equipment and supplies, and display some of my paintings. All are welcome, admission is free (donations are appreciated) and Fragile Inheritance memberships will be available. For a preview of my work, you can visit my blog, https://karstaddailypaintings.blogspot.com/
can beverage environment has become saturated with sweetness. And we should do some finger pointing, because taste is trainable. If someone gets sickly sweet drinks often enough, that level of sweetness becomes familiar. Reduce the sweetness and, for a while, the drink may seem tasteless. But the palate adapts. What is astonishingly sweet to a child visiting from afar can become unremarkable to a local who has been drinking it for years. We have become accustomed to beverages that are essentially liquid candy. The consequences involve high caloric intake and increased risk of obesity, type
I would like to see thousands of consumers join me in writing to the chief executives of the big beverage companies and convenience store chains. And to government regulators, too. For their absence of care, I have a strong message: shame on you! But we all should change our habits of our own initiative. Do not buy those awful drinks. The far better choice comes freely out of our faucets. Drink good old-fashioned water. Make your own unsweetened tea. Drink your coffee black. To the beverage executives, I’ll add more scorn. You know exactly how
much sugar you are putting into these products. You know that taste preferences can be shaped by repeated exposure. You know your customers include children who have not yet learned to question what they are drinking. The profits earned by making people unhealthy are ill-gotten gains. *** This column offers opinions on health and wellness, not personal medical advice. Visit www. docgiff.com to learn more. For comments, diana@ docgiff.com.
2 diabetes, dental cavities and everything that follows from these gateway diseases. Consumers need to get angry. Why should we have to navigate aisles filled with brightly packaged sugar water before finding plain water or unsweetened tea? Why should we have to decipher labels only to discover that the beverage is loaded with sugar? And why, when governments are spending enormous sums dealing with obesity, diabetes and dental disease, are we so reluctant to challenge an industry that profits from selling the products that contribute to those problems? 8
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Declines 5. Equipment 9. Be necessary 13. Certain something 14. Mistake 16. Chills and fever 17. Origin 18. Female demon 19. Shade trees 20. Harmony 22. Self-absorbed sort 24. Masticate 26. Adjust again 27. Plans 30. Scarcity 33. Sudden collapse 35. Devoted 37. Choose 38. Warble 41. Regret 42. Joint of the lower arm 45. Heartfelt
48. Towards the rear 51. Natural abilities 52. Assumed name 54. Horse color 55. Debutante ball 59. Wife-to-be 62. Similar 63. Arm joint 65. Decorated, as a cake 66. Garden tool 67. Sows 68. What we're called 69. Not the original color 70. Illustrated 71. Secluded valley DOWN 1. Hearing organs 2. Brightly colored marker 3. Throat infection 4. Small bag 5. Gooey stuff 6. Ages 7. Knight's protection
8. Stirred up 9. Master 10. Type of fruit 11. Totals 12. Exam 15. Lift 21. Stitches 23. Reverberation 25. Cried 27. Put away 28. Genus of goats 29. Mister 31. Despotic 32. A frequently visited place 34. Bite 36. Allows 39. Fate 40. Teller of untruths 43. Sullied 44. Confess 46. Amorphous shape 47. Approaching 49. Angers 50. Attached 53. Serious 55. Piece of identification 56. Alright 57. Kiddie 58. Connecting point 60. Greek district 61. Biblical garden 64. West southwest
Youngsters of Yore. Meet every Thursday at NG Library 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 Legion Euchre - every 3rd Sat. of the month. Cost $5.00, and 50/50 available
KEMPTVILLE LEGION: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome 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.
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
Easy
Hard
October 1, 2026
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 programs. Stop by and visit or contact
Medium
Solution to last week’s Crossword
9
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! CARDS AT PIERCE'S CORNERS (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road In severe weather conditions, cards will be cancelled For information, contact debiar@ymail. com EUCHRE: Tuesday, October 13, 27, November 10, 24, December 8, 22. Registration starts at 6, play starts at 6:30 p.m. BID EUCHRE: Tuesday, October 6, 20, November 3, 17, December 1, 15, 29. Registration starts at 6, play starts at 6:30 pm SPEED EUCHRE 10X10: Sunday, October 18, November 22, December 20. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m. WIZARD CARD GAME: Sunday, October 4, November 8, December 13, January 10. Aged 18 and over. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1.
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
South Gower Business Park
In Memory of
We ’r e H e r e To S e r v e Yo u
Rosemary Faye Dolan
KWK is known for The best quality products in the area Excellent workmanship for all installations Friendly and knowledgeable staff Founded in 1989, Kemptville Windows and Kitchens is a family owned and operated business serving homeowners and fellow contractors in Kemptville and surrounding areas, from south west Ottawa to Prescott, Winchester, South Mountain and Merrickville.
God took a little more time when He created you God wanted to give you beautiful blue eyes that looked deep into mine A smile that brightened even my darkest moments Soft kisses to tease my lips A kindness that touched the hearts of far more people than just me A personality that aroused all my senses sight, smell, touch, hearing, taste God, thanks for taking the time to make a special angel named Rose I even liked her little imperfections, they made the Rose even more perfect for me The Rose and the Beaver A Love Story Always in my Heart, Jim
Our sales and design personnel are experienced professionals that take pride in working with our clients from start to finish, providing them with more than just quality products and workmanship, but with a helpful in depth knowledge of industry codes, standards and current trends. We do onsite visits to measure and work with you from start to finish, that way you get what you want. We supply, or supply and install kitchen cabinets, countertops, bathroom vanities, windows, doors and much more, for renovations or new construction in North Grenville and surrounding areas.
Come visit our show room Monday to Thursday, 9am-5pm Friday 9am-4:30pm Saturday 9am-1pm
You can also visit us at www.kwandk.ca Like us on facebook, just look for Kemptville Windows and Kitchens
2 Industrial Rd. Kemptville, ON 613‑258‑7464 kwandk@bellnet.ca
Robert Hossie - Sales & Service James Hossie, Sales & Service
Terry Vandemheen, Sales/Office
Closed Saturday on holiday weekends
Dare to Dream ...
•Kitchens •Vanities •Planning & Design •Countertops •Replacement & Installation •Windows & Doors
CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS
Ron's
South Gower Industrial Park
Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720
ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville
#2 Industrial Rd.,
613-258-7464
kwandk@bellnet.ca
(across from old Bingo Hall)
Marketing / Sales CONTACT marketing@ngtimes.ca
613.215-0735
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of Our Community
October 1, 2026
March 13, 1955 to October 8, 2019
10
The North Grenville Real Estate Market: More choice and a slower pace
submitted by Geraldine Taylor, Realtor The North Grenville real estate market has changed noticeably over the past year. Comparing August 2025 with August 2026, buyers have more properties from which to choose, while sellers are facing greater competition. Active residential listings increased from 98 to 116, a rise of approximately 18%. At the same time, August sales declined from 29 to 24, a decrease of approximately 17%. Year-todate sales were also lower, falling from 222 in 2025 to 198 in 2026- a decline of nearly 11%.Prices present a more nuanced picture. The year-to-date average selling price increased by approximately 2.7%, from $670,130 to $688,064. However, the year-todate median declined by 1.4%, from $659,250 to $649,950. Because averages can be influenced by a relatively small number of expensive sales, the median may provide a better indication of the experience of a typical seller. The August figures show more noticeable price softening. The average selling price declined by 4.2%, while the median fell by 6.8%, from $643,000 to $599,000. These statistics do not indicate a collapse in North Grenville property values. They do, however, show a slower and more com-
petitive market. Buyers have more selection and potentially greater negotiating power. Sellers must respond with realistic pricing, thoughtful preparation and patience. The current municipal election may be contributing to a degree of hesitation as residents and investors await greater clarity about local leadership, taxation, planning and development. However, affordability, borrowing costs, economic confidence and increased inventory are also influencing the market. North Grenville remains an attractive community in which to live and invest, but the market is no longer moving at the same pace. Success now depends upon understanding current conditions rather than relying upon the expectations of previous years. Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB), Sold Statistical Summaries for North Grenville, August 2025 and August 2026. Statistical analysis and commentary by Geraldine Taylor, REALTOR®.
The information is believed to be accurate but should not be relied upon as a prediction of future market performance. Average and median prices may be affected by the composition of properties sold during each reporting period.
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Good Fortune and Good Works: Kemptville Lions Give Back to the Community
The first winner of the 2026–27 Kemptville Lions Club Trip of the Month has been crowned, and this time fortune smiled on Susan Dennett. Congratulations, Susan! Susan won a five-night vacation for two valued at $4,100. One of the destinations featured in the Trip of the Month package is beautiful Portugal, but Susan is not necessarily bound for Portugal. She has the option of choosing a destination of her own, with her travel voucher available for a vacation of her choice within
one year of the date her ticket was drawn. Shown with Susan are Lions President Wendy Gallinger, Bill Neil and Gail Osborne, along with Lions Jason Beck and David Doyle. There is a little extra story behind Susan's win. Lion Jason Beck was the Lion who persuaded Susan to buy the ticket. We suspect Jason may be receiving a few requests for investment advice now that his recommendation has produced a $4,100 vacation! The final draw of the
previous Trip of the Month series also brought good fortune. Andrea Howard won a $2,682 vacation for two to Banff National Park, Alberta. But while the Trip of the Month brings excitement to ticket holders, the money raised through Lions fundraising goes toward something much bigger: helping the community.
Turning Fundraising into Community support
The Kemptville Lions recently presented a cheque to the North Grenville Community Meals Association (NGCMA) to help establish a permanent kitchen at the former Breakaway Pub premises on Sanders Street. Since December, NGCMA has been serving a free community dinner every Tuesday evening at the Armory on Reuben Street. The Armory provides a wonderful place for people to gather, but it has no kitchen. That has meant
relying on the generosity of local commercial kitchens to prepare the meals. Catered Affairs and St. John's United Church have both been exceptionally generous, providing kitchen space at reasonable rates. Their support was instrumental in helping NGCMA get its Tuesday dinners underway. But, understandably, both kitchens eventually needed to return to their regular use. The Lions' donation will help NGCMA take an important next step: establishing a kitchen of its own and creating a permanent home
73’s record three points at home and on the road
Issac Arsenault marks his first goal during Friday evening home fans as Brody Clookey with Morgan Henderson show their elation. Just one of many to come. by G.J. the sportsguy Navan Grads were in Kemptville’s domain on Friday evening not prepared for the speed and skill of the 73’s as they were schooled with a 4 to 2 loss. Kemptville came out
feisty, fast and furious to draw first blood in the initial twenty when Tym walked the line to Dougherty with a howitzer from the point that Darius Nichols tipped past Finn Wilson top shelf at 16:35.
www.northgrenville.ca What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings
Tic-tac-toe from Henderson behind the net unto the tape of Dickey on the doorstep across to Zachary Venance in the slot to find the five hole to open the flood gates for 73’s in the second at :17. Water kept rising as Dickey with Venance cycled high to Morgan Henderson on the line to launch a rocket into the netting for a PPG game winner at 1:58. The tenacity of Barakat with Henderson found Issac Arsenault driving hard to the net for the insurance and placed it under the pillows of Grads stopper for his first goal of the season at 6:05. Navan spoiled Della Santina’s SO when Michael Rutledge with helpers from Packalen and Lindsay blew it through traffic sky high at 7:14. The Grads counted another marker in the third with a combination from Young to Liam Hayes as he swarmed the blue paint at 18:06. Navan pulled Finn Wilson for a final push at 19:33 without success and Kemptville doubled down
with a 4 to 2 victory. Kemptville peppered Navan 47 to 18 SOG with 2/3 PP to 0/2 PP. Trekking into Ottawa on Saturday evening to duel with the Junior Senators was a strange confrontation as stellar stopping power from Jacob Turpin and John Reburn closed out sixty minutes scoreless to force OT. Ottawa Junior Senators on attack at :33 OT with Molloy and Cambpell to Evan Graham who caught Jacob Turpin flat footed. Kemptville only posted one point although outshooting Ottawa 32 to 19 with both clubs recording 0/1 PP. Over to Carletton Place to face the Canadians on Wednesday evening and then homestand with Nepean Raiders on Saturday evening before a Sunday matinee bus ride to meet Hawkesbury Hawks. Hockey with EDGE… see you around the wall.
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:
www.northgrenville.ca
October 1, 2026
Darren Dwyer
for preparing these community meals. Emily Farrell, Treasurer, and Jennifer Gaw, Secretary of the Board, accepted the cheque on behalf of NGCMA. The Kemptville Lions are pleased to play a small part in helping make this happen. Behind Every Fundraiser Are the Doers Successful Lions projects don't happen by magic. They depend on members who give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make fundraising events successful. Representing that team are Lions Paul Thivierge, Bill White, Treasurer Wayne
Vachon, Jason Beck and David Doyle. For every community project, there are the doers and the sideline cheerleaders—and truthfully, the Lions need both. The cheerleaders support the Club by buying tickets, attending events and encouraging its work. The doers are the ones who roll up their sleeves and make things happen If you are one of those people who likes to be part of making things happen, there is a place for you in the Kemptville Lions Club. ome join us. There are plenty of community projects to get involved with, plenty of people to meet and plenty of opportunities to make a difference There is always room for another Lion! kemptvillelionsclub@gmail.com Lion Alan: (613) 406-9976
Who knows where the Times goes
Sarah Herring reading the Time just south of Halifax at Herring Cove
#5
Konrad Karon Nickname:Kon Born:Windsor, ON 11/23/2008 Position: Defense Previous Team: Kemptville 73’s Hockey Hero:Quinn Hughes Most Inspiring Person: My dad Favourite Food:Sushi Favourite Musician: Zac Brown Favourite Sport (beside hockey):soccer Best Hockey Moment: U16 Playoff Game Winner Life of 73’s: : Exciting experience, balancing personal Life with Hockey One Word that Describes Me: Easy Going
Certified utility arborist
613.531.1544
DWYER
Tree Service
TRIMMING & TREE REMOVAL FREE ESTIMATES . FULLY INSURED
11
www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Marathon of Hope - Terry Fox by Anika Modi My eyes drifted aimlessly as my fingers tapped on the desk. I glanced up at the drab board. It was vacant aside from a sole name written in bold vivacious marker. A name inscribed in history forevermore. “ Terry Fox.” As youth,we are often told we have our whole future ahead of us. We aspire for future careers and opportunities to aid the world,to perhaps leave it better than how we found it. Nevertheless every dream begins with a premise. Hope. Hope serves as a foundation for countless things: innovation, perseverance or remarkably a 5373 kilometre run across the country. At the mere age of twenty-one Terry Fox initiated the Marathon of Hope. An astounding 143 day
endeavour commencing from an ambition to cross Canada. Despite suffering from cancer himself, Terry chose to serve others who were afflicted by the illness and dedicate his efforts to raise awareness and funding for cancer research. At eighteen,whilst teenagers were anticipating graduation and polishing resumes, Terry was confronted with devastating news: He had been diagnosed with a type of bone cancer known as osteogenic sarcoma. The cancer was located in his right leg, and he later had his leg amputated above the knee. While undergoing treatment, Terry met others who were suffering from cancer as well, including young people who , like him, had future yearnings themselves. This experience influenced
tion. Then just outside Thunder Bay, Ontario, on September 1st, 1980, tragedy struck as Terry was forced to cease his run. His cancer had come back, and this time it had spread to his lungs as well. Although he returned to his home to continue treatment, he continued to aid the development of cancer research in whatever ways he was able.
him greatly and motivated him to begin the renowned “ Marathon of hope.” Terry trained relentlessly in advance with the hope to ultimately collect a single dollar from every Canadian. In 1980, April 12th, Terry began the pursuit in St. John's Newfoundland and started towards the west, covering around forty-two kilometers per day. Eventually his motive began to galvanize others and crowds would gather near him whenever they spotted him running along the road. Canadians from across the provinces were supporting him and contributing towards his noble goal. Financial support for cancer research was increasing due to a single young man and his courageous determina-
Then at 22 years old, on June 28,1981,Terry succumbed to his disease, however his venture was not without success. The Marathon of hope had raised over twenty-four million dollars. Terry’s perseverance teaches us that making a positive impact doesn't have to require waiting.
he had with the hope that his efforts would reach one and all. This is what we all need to carry forward, not just Terry’s name but his determination, his belief and lastly his hope.
It can begin with a local fundraiser, volunteering in hopes of assisting others, or potentially, participating in a school run in the name of Terry Fox, and carrying on his unalterable principle in ourselves. Terry Fox did not wait; he began with what
Priority Pump Service &
Water Conditioning 613.882.7867 Sales, Service, Installations
FOR ALL YOUR PUMP NEEDS
Well Pumps - Submersible & Jet Pressure Tanks Water Conditioning Sump/ Effluent / Sewage Pumps Heated Water Lines Pump & Electrical Motor Repair Well Extensions and Conversions www.prioritypumpservice.ca
prioritypumps@gmail.com
Notice of Commencement Bridge Street Sewage Pumping Station Municipal Class Environmental Assessment – Schedule B
Let’s get growing, North Grenville!
The Municipality of North Grenville is undertaking a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment to explore options for increasing the capacity of the Bridge Street Sewage Pumping Station in Kemptville. The study follows recommendations from the North Grenville Water and Wastewater Servicing Master Plan Update, completed in March 2026. Options being considered may include upgrading the existing facility or constructing a new pumping station at the existing site or another location within the study area. Study Area: 3 Bridge Street N, at the intersection of Bridge Street North and Curry Street, and adjacent municipal property.
Planting and protecting trees in our communities.
We want to hear from you! Public consultation is an important part of the Environmental Assessment process.
Join us!
For more information or to be added to the project contact list, please email: BridgeStreetSPS_ EA@rvanderson.com or call 613-258-9569 ext.139.
For more information visit: www.canadasforesttrust.ca/north-grenville
Visit: www.northgrenville.ca/projects October 1, 2026
12
www.ngtimes.ca