Issue 4 2022 February 2 NG Times

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Vol. 10 No. 4

The Voice of North Grenville

February 2, 2022

Truck convoy passes through North Grenville

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Truckers rallying with the so-called “Freedom Convoy 2022” passed through North Grenville on Friday and Saturday on the 416. The convoy was actually comprised of several different groups of trucks coming from different parts of the country, with some truckers from the USA even crossing the border to join. The convoy started in response to mandates which were introduced in January requiring all those crossing the Canada-USA border (in either direction) to either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or to isolate for a set period of time before entering the country. Since

isolation periods would cause significant lost income for unvaccinated truckers, the new rules effectively constitute mandatory vaccination requirements for any truckers who move goods between Canada and the USA. Since its inception, the convoy has evolved into a movement that is intended to be the voice for all who are against government instituted COVID-19 pandemic mandates and restrictions, including mask-wearing, vaccine passports, and gathering limits. The rally has drawn the attention of both supporters and critics globally.

The convoy has been the first movement to apply significant pressure on the Canadian and provincial governments

in the two years since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The original goal of the rally was to force the government into submission by gridlocking Canada’s capital until all pandemic restrictions and mandates were lifted.

It is not clear as of the time of writing whether convoy organizers and supporters have achieved anything by the time of publication. Police agencies were warning of the need for supporters gathering on overpasses to be careful, given the dangers posed by vehicle traffic when busy roads and large groups of pedestrians mix. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke out against the convoy, calling it a rally by the “fringe minority,” and maintaining that the only

way for Canadians to regain lost freedoms is for everyone to get vaccinated. He also referred to the views of the protestors as “unacceptable”, in a media conference. Locally, reactions to the convoy online have been mixed, with many vocally against the movement, and others going so far as to sport lawn signs of support. East of the Municipality, in North Dundas, a smaller convoy of mostly passenger vehicles showed support by trekking down Hwy 31 from Winchester.

Like nearly all aspects of the current COVID-19 pandemic, opinions about the merits of the “Freedom Convoy” are unlikely to ever to resolve into one conclusion.

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Enjoy Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids this weekend

by Linda Clouthier, Community Engagement Officer, Easter Seals Ontario Snowmobilers will hit the trails on Sunday, February 6, 2022 for the Kemptville Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids. The annual event takes place on Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) groomed trails and encourages winter enthusiasts to raise funds for children and youth with physical disabilities.

Now in its 47th year, Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids combines a passion for winter activities with community participation for a worthy cause. This year, snowmobilers from 10 communities across Ontario will take part in this enjoyable, family-friendly affair, including those from Morrisburg, Sudbury, and Kemptville.

Everyone, snowmobiler or not, is welcome to come out and enjoy this year’s Kemptville Snowarama, which will take place at the Kemptville Snowmobile Club House, 1505 O’Neil Rd., Oxford Mills. The Rally will be approximately 150 kilometres.

All riders must have a trail permit.

“Easter Seals is our lon-

gest running preferred charity, and we encourage all of the snowmobiling community to support Snowarama in their area this year,” said Murray Baker, OFSC president. “It is particularly important for our support in this pandemic year, by registering online at Snowrama.org and getting pledges to help this worthy cause.”

Donations to Snowarama help provide funding for essential mobility and accessibility equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, ramps, and bathing equipment, as well as offering kids opportunities to experience fully accessible Easter Seals camp.

Easter Seals owns and operates two fully accessible camp properties, and is recognized as an industry leader in providing specialized camping experiences for kids with physical disabilities.

For more information on this event, you can contact Linda Clouthier, Community Engagement Officer, Easter Seals Ontario at 613-3833240 or by email at lclouhtier@easterseals.org.

“For over four decades, Easter Seals has benefitted from the support of the Ontar-

The Voice of North Grenville

NG Poetry Guild photo contest

io Federation of Snowmobile Clubs,” says Kevin Collins, President & CEO, Easter Seals Ontario. “We have a deep sense of gratitude for the participation of local sponsors and riders who contribute to the success of Snowarama events across the province year after year.”

A trusted partner and champion since 1922, Easter Seals Ontario is proud to be marking 100 years of changing the world for kids with physical disabilities in 2022.

Forging the way for enhanced care and services for children with physical disabilities over the past century, Easter Seals Ontario has had a profound impact on the development of treatment, care, services, and advocacy initiatives for these young people. Today, Easter Seals Ontario continues to offer life-changing programs that enable kids with physical disabilities to experience greater independence, freedom, and dignity, made possible through the generosity and dedication of donors, sponsors, local service clubs, volunteers, and staff. For more information or to donate, visit EasterSeals. org.

by Chris Turnbull Grab your cameras and phones…the North Grenville Poetry Guild is hosting its first photo contest and LOVE is the theme! Community members are invited to submit 3-5 photographs to admin@ experienceartfest.com; photo submissions will be judged by visual artist and curator, Christina Chrysler. Submissions will only be received between February 1 and February 25, 2022.

Chris’ art has been exhibited in both Canada and the United States, and her works are held in private collections around the world. She is currently Professor and Program Coordinator of both the Visual & Creative Arts - Fine Arts program and 1000 Islands Summer School of the Arts program at St. Lawrence College. She is the former curator of the Marianne van Silfhout Gallery in Brockville.

The contest rules are as follows:

Contest opens February 1, 2022 and closes February 25, 2022.

Top 5 photos will be announced on February 28, and each one wins $50.

The top 5 photos will be presented at the Experience Art Festival, June 25, 2022, and compete for the $250 prize. Final judging will be done by the public and announced at the festival.

Please submit from 3-5 original photographs (Name, #entry, Title of photo, Date submitted).

Please submit a short bio (max. 250 words) with your photo(s).

Email your submission to admin@experienceartfest. com.

Despite being a new community group in North Grenville, the NG Poetry Guild

has been holding photopoetry workshops at the Kemptville Youth Centre, or online, once a month since September. In January, the Guild hosted a launch of the documentary “Planting Stories, Feeding Communities: Knowledge, Indigenous Peoples, and Film”, by Métis academic, actor, singer, composer, filmmaker and poet, Paul Chaput.

The film was followed by a Q & A with Paul Chaput.

For those unable to attend this event, Paul Chaput’s documentary, and information about it, is available online www.plantingstories.ca.

For more information about events, registration, and other news, the North Grenville Poetry Guild has a website at www.experienceartfest.com; it also has an active Facebook page.

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NAVY LEAGUE NEWS

Chief Petty Officer 1st class Churchill receiving a promotion following the Merit Review Board in early December of 2021

by PO1 Dilan Yildirim Ambitious cadets receive promotions every year for completing their training.

But, after they reach the rank of Petty Officer 1st class, advancing becomes a bit more challenging. They may obtain

experience, both in and outside the program, their qualifications, and their resume.

During the Board, just like in an interview, cadets must be dressed to the nines, with shiny boots, creased pants, and their white top placed two fingers above the brow.

Board members ask them a vast array of questions pertaining to the knowledge the cadets have accumulated in their years at the corps and throughout their life. CPO2 Larmour’s piece of advice to cadets like myself preparing for the Merit Review Board is to answer every question in as much detail as possible.

Afterwards, the points are tallied and the Commanding Officer renders a decision.

In early December, the Merit Review Board convened for those wishing to obtain the rank of Chief Petty Officer 1st class. The President of the Navy League, Peter Milsom, Slt Aimee Stoodley from our own corps, and Municipal Councillor, Kristin Strackerjan, were the board members in charge of

the rank of Chief Petty Officer 1st and 2nd class through a special evaluation to obtain higher ranks. As a Petty Officer myself, I decided to ask one of our town’s senior sea cadets about his experience, to learn more about the process we call the Merit Review Board.

What is the Merit Review board? It is an evaluation of a cadet’s performance throughout the years and a test aimed at determining if they are ready to become leaders at our corps. When I asked to participate in the Merit Review Board, they gave me a stack of papers titled, “Merit Review Board Handbook”. Needless to say, I felt a little intimidated flipping through the pages. When asked about preparing for the Merit Review Board, senior cadet CPO2 Larmour said: “It’s very similar to preparing for a big job interview”.

In fact, the process does have a lot in common with that of an interview. Beforehand, the members of the Board examine the cadet’s

North Grenville awarded Highest Level of Certification by the World Council on City Data North Grenville awarded Highest Level of Certification by the World Council on City Data The Municipality of North Grenville has been awarded ISO 37120 Platinum Certification for 2021 by the World Council on City Data (WCCD). The certification was presented to Council virtually, during the regular Council meeting on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

With this accomplishment, North Grenville has achieved the highest level of certification, joining a select group of 100 data-driven cities worldwide, including thirty cities across Canada.

Through this WCCD ISO certification, North Grenville demonstrates its commitment to harnessing data to drive community-focused service delivery improvements.

“On behalf of Council, we are thrilled that North Grenville has been awarded the highest level of certification from the World Council on City Data. This achievement reflects the significant leadership offered by Municipal CAO, Mr. Gary Dyke, and his staff team to develop and use world-class standards to drive and measure our service delivery to community members,” stated Mayor Nancy Peckford. “In fact, Mr. Dyke February 2, 2022

may be the only Municipal CAO in Canada to ever lead the certification of two different Municipalities over his career.

“As one of the smallest communities globally to obtain WCCD’s ISO 37120 certification, the certification process revealed that the Municipality of North Grenville stands out for its extremely educated workforce, outstanding air quality, and generous access to green space.”

Key data points in which the community excelled across the WCCD Canadian and global network: A highly educated population - North Grenville is a leader in Canada and the world with residents holding, collectively, more than 7,900 post-secondary degrees (48,021 per 100,000 thousand population); A place to be active - With over 719 square metres per capita of outdoor recreation space, North Grenville has twice as much space as any other WCCD certified Canadian city, and ranks 2nd globally; only Reykjavík, Iceland, has more outdoor recreation space than North Grenville; Over 14,000 hectares of green space (private and public lands) throughout the municipality (82,427 hectares per 100,000 popula-

tion) - North Grenville offers ample space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy a cost-effective way of keeping physically active while enjoying the great outdoors; Air quality: North Grenville has better air quality than most other ISSO certified Canadian and International communities, including Charlottetown PEI, Corner Brook NFLD, and Vila do Bispo Portugal.

Low total water consumption, with only 267 litres per capita used daily – which positions the community as a leader, both in Canada, and globally.

In her message to North Grenville Council, President and CEO of WCCD, Dr. Patricia McCarney noted: “The WCCD is so pleased to welcome the Municipality of North Grenville to our Canadian and global network. The commitment of North Grenville to a more data-informed – and datadriven – future is underscored by achieving the highest, Platinum-level of WCCD ISO 37120 certification. Congratulations to Mayor Peckford, Council, and the hardworking, dedicated staff, led

by CAO Gary Dyke, for this exemplary accomplishment.”

Access to WCCD Global Network allows the Munici-

pality of North Grenville to collect and share better data to inform decision-making.

It can measure the quality of life and service delivery using a common international standard, share local experiences, learn about policies that have the biggest impact, and track progress for the recently adopted Community Strategic Plan.

“The Municipality of North Grenville is consistently working to improve our overall operations through data-driven decision-making - and by leveraging partnerships for collaboration and advocacy to improve the lives of our residents. By receiving our ISO 37120 Platinum-level certification, we are becoming a leading municipality that will advance Council’s priorities and continue to make North Grenville a great place to live,” said CAO Gary Dyke.

Developed by the Toronto-based World Council on City Data, with the input of Canadian and global cities, ISO 37120 is the first international standard for cities by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in Geneva. Its 104 key performance indicators across 19 themes enable cities to set internal baselines according to standardized definitions,

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The Voice of North Grenville

assessing Chief Petty Officers Larmour and Churchill. CPO Churchill was awarded the rank of Chief Petty Officer 1st class, and received his promotion and new badge shortly after. He says he decided to participate to further his “role and responsibilities in the cadet corps”, and because it is a “good learning experience”.

There will be another Merit Review Board later this year for cadets hoping to become Chief Petty Officer 2nd class, including me. Wish me luck!

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Council networks at ROMA Conference

The work of NG’s Chamber of Commerce

by Brandon Mayer

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two members of North Grenville’s Chamber of Commerce, Megan McDonald and Terri-Lyn McEvoy, are highlighting the important work the Chamber does to support local businesses. Some of the Chamber’s goals include providing advocacy, networking, and visibility opportunities for local businesses, as well as providing accurate and up-todate information about what is happening in the community.

Networking opportunities have been fewer and far between during the pandemic, but the Chamber has acted as a “vehicle of information” for businesses, according to Terri-Lyn. Changes in the Chamber and in the way local businesses run have not been static since the pandemic began. Terri-Lyn pointed out that, when COVID-19 first hit, there were a lot of video chats and webinars taking place, but people have become “Zoomed out”, and so the situation has shifted back to touching base personally with businesses.

When asked how local businesses are feeling the impact of COVID-19 nearly two years since pandemic restrictions began, Terri-Lyn pointed

out that some business owners are just plain tired. They are increasingly unable to take days off and to have a proper personal life, because of staffing and financial constraints.

Some businesses, however, have used the pandemic as an opportunity to make positive changes.

“Successfully, a lot of businesses did shift to an online space,” Megan said.

Both women talked about how one of the challenges many businesses have faced is confusion about the changing pandemic mandates. The Chamber has worked with both the Ministry of Health and other business organizations to ensure they deliver accurate and up-to-date information. They have provided guidance and direction for businesses to help ensure that the business community felt confident and knowledgeable about the changes and funding opportunities available.

Business owners have been worried about the health unit showing up and faulting them for violations they did not even know they were making. The Chamber has been able to make the information more understandable for business owners. Some business owners are holding out hope that the pandemic

will switch to endemic status soon, though others are disheartened that, so often, progress is made and then lost.

Megan pointed out that this is a difficult subject for many businesses. Some business owners will likely keep some of the changes brought about by the pandemic, such as virtual meetings for efficiency, paid sick leave, and a greater recognition of when a staff member is simply too ill to come to work. On the positive side, the Chamber has worked hard to promote the #iLoveNG campaign, using money obtained from a grant. #iLoveNG has been a way for locals to express why they love North Grenville, and to show their support for shopping locallly, and has also been used to show “behind the scenes” aspects of many businesses.

The grant has allowed the Chamber to work with local creatives and other supporters of local business. Other initiatives have also supported businesses, such as rapid test kit training and distribution throughout North Grenville.

This pandemic has certainly shown that the Chamber of Commerce – and local businesses – have the strength to handle just about anything.

NG Council and CAO Greg Dyke’s virtual meeting with Minister Lisa Thompson

by Mayor Nancy Peckford On Monday, January 23 and Tuesday, January 24, members of Council had the opportunity to participate in three Ministerial delegations at the Rural Ontario Municipalities Association [ROMA] virtual conference on behalf of our Municipality to discuss key priorities for our community.

Minister McNaughton: Alongside senior representatives from the Upper Canada District School Board [UCDSB] and Kemptville Campus, I led a delegation to a meeting with Ministers McNaughton and Clark on Monday, January 24, to advocate for the expansion of apprenticeship programs at Kemptville Campus. In 2020, Kemptville Campus was granted Training Delivery Agent approval to offer the Level 1 Commercial Vehicle and Equipment Ontario under the auspices of the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.

Will food supply chain issues impact North Grenville?

by Brandon Mayer

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

There have been growing concerns recently that food shortages, which many people are noticing in the form of empty grocery store shelves, will only continue getting worse. A local voice, however – co-owner Jim Beveridge of the B&H grocery store in Kemptville – told the Times that the supply chain issues have been going on for quite some time, even pre-pandemic.

“Locally, yes, it’s an issue. But it’s been an ongoing issue since before COVID,” Jim said. One major reason for this that Jim identified is a February 2, 2022

shortage of truck drivers that has been ongoing for years.

Jim estimated that there is a shortage of about 20,000 drivers, based on information he has heard. Another problem is that many food manufacturers have moved toward a model of scrapping smaller regional plants in favour of fewer, much larger plants.

“That works really well, until you run into a shortage of drivers, or even a mother nature event,” Jim said. He also pointed out that significant weather can impact grocery deliveries. “One day makes a big difference in how groceries are stocked.”

Many consumers are likely accustomed to seeing grocery

Most sources are blaming the current worsening of supply chain issues on this large volume of trucks being out of service, as well as thousands of others, the drivers of which cannot ship products from the USA without being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Jim believes the link between the convoy and the supply chain issues is weak, but that the shortages are because of the increasing challenges in transporting goods, such as wildfires and traffic accidents.

He proposed a simple solution to the complex problem: we should simply look at producing more of our food right here in Canada.

store shelves consistently full, so seeing many totally empty shelves can come as a shock, but it is not unheard of. For example, the recent strike by workers at four Kellogg’s plants in the USA ended over a month ago, but, Jim said, stores are only now starting to be able to put Kellogg’s products back on the shelves.

One aspect of Jim’s B&H store that gives it an advantage, is that it stocks a high volume of local products, which do not depend on the trucking industry to keep in stock. A truck rally, consisting of tens of thousands of trucks, began a cross country journey last week to protest federal vaccine mandates.

4

In doing so, we leveraged the resources of Kemptville Campus and the UCDSB’s TR Leger School of Adult, Alternative and Continuing Education. The first group of students from all four local school boards were enrolled in the Fall of 2021, and there is currently a waiting list for the next intake. Due to the high demand and critical labour shortages in several related industries, the Campus and UCDSB is now seeking to expand its apprenticeship offerings.

Minister Elliott: Council met with Minister of Health, Christine Elliott, to advocate for the creation of two hospice beds in North Grenville, thereby reducing pressure on the very limited capacity at our local hospital – and leverage opportunities elsewhere. These beds would reduce the significant expenditures on local and regional hospitals for end-of-life care, and decrease the travel and logistical burden for families who are travelling to access palliative care elsewhere.

We also flagged the urgent

doctor shortage, given that our community has, unfortunately, lost five physicians in our community since 2019, and North Grenville is no longer regarded by the Ministry of Health as an “Area of High Physician Need’. We are in conversation with KDH and several family health practices on immediately improving doctor recruitment and retention.

Minister Thompson: Given the explicit commitment by the Ministry of the Solicitor General to transfer provincially owned ‘excess surplus farmlands’ to North Grenville, Council took this opportunity to brief the new Agriculture Minister, Lisa Thompson, and seek her support for the potential establishment of accessible community gardens, vertical growing, and equine facilities, among other possibilities. As host of the 2022 International Plowing Match, there is a lot of momentum in the community to ensure community driven agriculture and related initiatives become a reality.

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FOOD BANK

The Knights of Columbus in Kemptville offers a food bank service to those in need in the community of North Grenville We provide a selection of canned, packaged and dry goods

For more information, please call Dave at 613 258 3683 Pick up at Holy Cross Church Hall preferred – delivery can be arranged if required

This service is supported by the community of North Grenville

Knights of Columbus feeding the community Essential Services the Kemptville Hospital, the tion of food – decisions about and I just spend it.” David available from LGL

by Brandon Mayer Beth Donovan Hospice, se- who gets food are never made credited Jim as one of the niors groups, and the Le- based on religious beliefs or most active fundraisers for the North Grenville has seen gion. Deputy Mayor Jim other such factors.

Knights. When it was pointed Health Unit Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

many significant changes in the last few decades, but some things – like the Knights of Columbus food bank and their Sweetheart Brunch fundraiser – have stood the test of time.

The question of what makes a food bank tick, particularly when it has been in operation for three decades, is one that was posed to three Knights who spoke with the Times.

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic organization that supports area parishes, churches, priests, and the community as a whole.

Grand Knight, Michel Blais, told the Times that, as a charitable organization locally, the Knights provide resources non-denominationally, supporting a variety of organizations, including

McManaman, who is also a Knights member, noted that the organization also provides bursaries and donations to smaller charities that may not get as much exposure, such as Ryan’s Well.

“I think our overhead is peanuts,” Jim said. “All the money that comes in goes, basically, back out.” Fellow Knights member, David Habberjam, is dedicated to the food bank, which is run by the local chapter of the Knights.

Food is donated, and money is raised in the form of donations and fundraisers. David takes on much of the work involved in distributing food resources to those in the community who need it the most.

There is no discrimination when it comes to the distribu-

A richness of birds

by Nick Brooks I follow John Baldwin's weekly bird reports with interest.

I am looking out now, Friday, January 28, from our porch and seeing dozens of robins, my estimate is around 50 birds. We have also had a lot of starlings here. Both species are feeding on wild grape vine and mountain ash berries. I don't remember seeing as many robins or starlings wintering over as there are this year. They picked the wrong year to be staying North of the border - perhaps they haven't been double vaccinated - just saying!

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The Knights’ food bank does not strictly ration resources – those who call are given enough food to last about two weeks, but they are free to call back if they run out. David is continually adapting the way the food bank is run to meet the needs of the community. For example, donations of less common items, such as feminine hygiene products and pet food, occasionally come in, and while they are not usually included in food deliveries, those who need them can certainly ask for them.

And, while food banks normally only give out items that they are given, David is working on “feeding the demand” for those with specific health requirements, such as gluten-free items. This is a relatively new initiative this year, and David is hoping to use fundraising money to purchase specific lists of products as requested by patrons. One point to make, however, is that it is a joint effort.

“Just to be clear, I don’t do fundraising,” David joked.

“These guys go and get it,

out that there is a perceived increase of food bank operations around Christmas time, Jim was able to provide a simple explanation for this.

Some families who would not normally need supplies from the food bank, but who are living on a very tight budget throughout the year, may suddenly have an extra need for help during the Christmas season because of extra expenses, such as Christmas gifts for their children.

Many readers may be wondering about the Sweetheart Brunch, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the community over the years. Last year’s live event was cancelled, as is this year’s, due to pandemic restrictions; but donations are still sought in the spirit of the event. Last year marked the 23rd annual Sweetheart Brunch, raising over $18,000, and the Knights are hoping for a similarly positive result for this year’s 24th annual event, since, if one thing is certain, it is that all funds raised will go right back out into the community!

North Grenville Arts Guild thanks the community The North Grenville Arts Guild wish to thank everyone who purchased a copy of our first colouring book. This fundraising initiative was created to support our local Big Sky Ranch, and your support made it possible for NGAG to donate more than $1,000.

A big thank you also goes out to the North Grenville Public Library, B & H Your community Grocers, and Pet Valu (Kemptville) for supporting the sale of the books. This project would not have been possible without them.

We sincerely appreciate the continuing support shown by the community through our many plans and ongoing ventures. We look forward to another Artful Year here in North Grenville!

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As of January 31, 2022, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Health Unit has re-opened some essential services that were paused in order to be able to effectively manage and contact trace positive cases of COVID-19 in high risk settings within our communities. There are still some services that are paused to effectively manage our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Smart Works services continue to be available at our Brockville and Smiths Falls, offices; please contact us if you need service at another site.

Coolers and sample bottles for well-water testing continue to be available in Kemptville at the Municipal Centre, and at Brockville, Smiths Falls and Gananoque Health Unit officesd.

Here are some services that are available again as of January 31, 2022: Sexual health clinics remain open by appointment only at most of our offices. No walk-ins; screening before entry.

Infant feeding clinics are open by appointment in Smiths Falls, Brockville, Almonte and Kemptville.

Immunization clinics (non-COVID) are resuming in Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and Almonte with limited capacity.

Regular school immunization clinics are on-hold currently during our pandemic response. For more information visit our School Immunizations page.

Dental: The Healthy Smiles Ontario program and Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program are available for children age 17 and under, or eligible seniors age 65 and up. Call 1-800-6605853 extension 2315 or click the links for more information on these programs.

Our phone lines remain open: 1-800-660-5853 Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm General COVID-19 inquiries extension 2499 School/Parent line: 1-866-236-0123 – open 7 days a week.

Health care providers or high risk settings reporting symptoms or positive test results: extension 2222. This extension is open 7 days a week.

Businesses inspected by the Health Unit: extension 2308 Emergencies after hours: 613-345-5685 For details on what services are available, visit: https:// healthunit.org/service-changes/ COVID-19 Services Available: Case and Contact staff continue to complete case management and contact tracing for positive cases of COVID-19 in high risk settings Outbreak staff continue to manage suspect and confirmed outbreaks of COVID-19 in high risk settings Public Health Inspectors continue to complete high-priority inspections and respond to complaints COVID-19 vaccine clinics continue to operate as scheduled – Visit our website for more information about eligibility and booking appointments.

Assessment Centres are open for testing for those eligible Health Unit offices in Brockville and Smiths Falls are open to the public. All visitors MUST complete a self-assessment before entering the building. Please follow the guidance in the screening tool as well as any signage upon arrival.

For information about Health Unit services, call 1-800660-5853 or visit our website at www.healthunit.org.

Keeping our clients and families safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is very important to us. We thank you for your ongoing understanding. www.ngtimes.ca

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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 area.

Come visit our showroom, open Monday to Friday, 9-5 pm and Saturdays 9 am- 1 pm You can also visit us at http:/www.kwandk.ca Like us on Facebook, just looks for Kemptville Windows and Kitchen.

James Hossie, Manager/Sale and Service Terry Vandemheen, Sales/Service Robert Hossie, Sales/ServiceSELECT SIRES GENERVATIONS INC. PO BOX 489 Our Philosophy: Quality products, quality service, fair prices.

Kemptville, Ont K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-3800 Fax: 613-258-7257 selectsiresgenervations.com

Ron's

Small Engine Repair

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT

Robert Walker, CPA, CA Bradley Mehlman CPA Dinah Boal Stephanie Turcotte Crystal Lang T: 613.258.3282 F: 613.258.4391 2 - 4 Industrial Rd, Kemptville, South Gower Business Park

613.258.9720 fffftigti

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT

titimp

ronssmallengines@outlook.com fftitititi Ftifftibtid 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville

Utititititi Rtititi-tiff (across from old Bingo Hall) tititititititititi ffffffffffffffffff tititititititititititi ffffffffffffffffffffffffffff

Baldwin's Birds August 12, 2020

The “Upside Down Bird”.

February 2, 2022

tititi.titimptiti.tiff 6

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6

2 - 4 Industrial Rd, Kemptville, South Gower Business Park

613-258-9085

The sunny, bitterly cold day following the snow fall has meant that the birds were in need of some food for warmth, and the feeders were in demand to do just that.

Many of them just groundfed, but the Nyjer seed and peanut eaters were glad of the hanging feeders in front of our main living room window. A couple of Gold-finches enjoyed Nyjer seed as the sun showed up their winter plumage to the maximum, and were joined by one of our particular favourites, the "Upside Down Bird"!

Yes, that's what we call the Nuthatches, and this one on the peanuts was the White Breasted one, as opposed to the Red Breasted variety.

by John Baldwin If you think your world is upside down!

Wow! Winter sure gave us quite the snow stormy blast the other day, didn't it; but life still has to go on!? So, once more, the trusty old snowblower was forced to make a somewhat reluctant appearance and, when it did, would only operate on small bites at a time! It did, however, work well enough to eventually clear me a high banked path to my bird-feeders, much to the relief of both them and me! At -20 deg C today, I wasn't about to fiddle about with it to improve its performance, despite having added a second heater to my garage workshop!

Robert Walker, CPA, CA, LPA Bradley Mehlman CPA Dinah Boal Clare Deans Crystal Lang T: 613.258.3282 F: 613.258.4391

What jolly little fellows they are too, who, when not upside down on the feeders, can be seen on the tree trunks and branches as they "Beep-beep" around the garden, a most distinguishable and enjoyable sound.

They go about their task of obtaining a tasty peanut with amazing enthusiasm, and never once have I seen them wince at having missed a hole in the metal feeder! They never miss, and neither do any of the Woodpeckers, when they come too. Their eyesight and beak co-ordination are always "right on the money", so such incidents never occur, - amazing! They never seem to be put off from coming and clutching onto the metal type

of feeders either, even in the most extreme cold, where we have to be wary of sticking to them with our bare hands!

Gives rise to yet another question, doesn't it; but I don't know the answer, so I'll leave it up to you to do the research.

Until the next time, stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

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

The North Grenville Times

North Grenville adopts 10-year Community Strategic Plan At last week’s meeting, Council had the opportunity to review and adopt the Municipality of North Grenville’s 10-year Community Strategic Plan.

“We are delighted that nearly 2,000 residents took the time to respond to our community survey this past August and September, and grateful for all of the conversations that our Municipal team led with stakeholders, advisory groups, and individuals, as well as feedback from several community associations,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford.

This Community Strategic Plan was developed to reflect - to the best of our ability- the shared insights of survey respondents, staff, management, Advisory Committees, community groups, and Council.

“There is no doubt that one of the key challenges that North Grenville currently faces, and has for nearly two decades, is how to balance a strong rate of growth with the preservation of a high quality of life that many of us have come to enjoy. Maintaining the rural character of our community, while protecting natural assets, needs to be a significant priority,” emphasized Mayor Peckford.

The plan aims to advance the following community vision statement: “North Grenville is a caring, vibrant and cohesive community, where

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS Support the local businesses that support your local newspaper.

growth is sustainably managed to enhance the quality of urban and rural life for all”.

In order to improve how the Municipality manages growth, new planning and oversight tools are required.

“We are thrilled that we can get to work right away on this plan, thanks to over $400,000 in modernization funds from Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing,” added Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman.

“These dollars will be immediately used to update records management and IT systems, as well as asset management tools.

The plan is based on a foundation of five pillars: Balanced & Environmentally Sustainable Growth A Strong Connected, and Vibrant Community Diverse and Resilient Economic Development Efficient Governance and Service Delivery A Caring Community With this in mind, preserving natural assets and the environment, supporting economic development opportunities, improving Municipal operations and efficiencies, building on previous efforts to ensure an inclusive community, are key priorities.

“Our municipal team is fully committed to working together with members of the community and stakeholders to achieve the goals set out

••

in the Strategic Plan. We are equally committed to publicly reporting on, and evaluating, our progress as we move forward,” added Chief Administrative Officer Gary Dyke.

Under Mr. Dyke’s leadership, the Municipality was recently certified as an ISO 37120 community, the third smallest municipality in the world to receive this platinum designation. This means the Municipality will bring a systematic approach to regularly benchmarking municipal services, quality of life, and sustainability efforts. Further, the Municipality’s progress in advancing these goals will be reliably and consistently measured and shared with the community.

The World Council on City Data (WCCD) was founded in 2014 and exists to help communities of all sizes - in Canada and across the globe - to embrace standardized, independently verified, and globally comparable city data to become more sustainable, resilient, prosperous, inclusive, and smart.

To review the plan and see future updates, visit www.northgrenville.ca/vision. North Grenville’s last strategic plan was completed in 2013. In the Fall of 2018, residents elected a new Council which committed to completing a new strategic plan in 2020. In the interim, Council created a Work Plan in 2019.

UPDATE

For updates related to COVID-19 and the North Grenville Municipal Centre visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

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

Please visit the Municipal website at northgrenville.ca for more information regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic and re-opening of other Municipal facilities – including the Municipal arena.

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

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom.

For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please pre-register with the Clerk's Office at the same e-mail address. Please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting. If you require accommodation, please advise the Clerk’s Office when pre-registering so that they may best assist you.

Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/featured and on the Municipality’s website at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes.

Council agendas are available at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes.

• Council Meeting (Open) – Virtual – Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.

This Council meeting will begin with a virtual presentation of the Civic Awards.

• Council Meeting (Open) – Virtual – Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committee meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting, pre-registration is required by e-mailing the Clerk’s Office at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca.

• Heritage Advisory Committee – February 3, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

• Community and Economic Development Advisory Committee – February 7, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.

• Health Wellness and Fitness Advisory Committee – February 14, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

BUDGET

Budget meetings and presentations will be conducted virtually via Zoom. For any members of the public wanting to attend the any of the budget meetings, pre-registration is required by e-mailing the Clerk’s Office at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. · Public Consultation Session – February 14, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. · Public Consultation Session – February 16, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. · Presentation of Draft Budget (Council Meeting) – February 22, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. · Presentation of Final Budget (Council Meeting) – March 2, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.

ACCESSIBLE TRANSIT

North Grenville Accessible Transit is available seven (7) days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The service is available for anyone who meets the definition of having a disability in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarian with Disabilities Act or Seniors 65+.

Visit www.northgrenville.ca/transit to register for the service or call 613-258-9569 ext. 133.

Kemptville man killed in snowmobile crash

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for updates on volunteer and employment opportunities.

Seasonal Student Positions 2022 - Parks, Recreation and Culture The Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is currently accepting applications for full and part-time spring/summer student positions. Please visit northgrenville.ca/careers for a list of the positions available.

Please send resumes to hr@northgrenville.on.ca no later than 4:00 p.m. on March 14, 2022.

by Brandon Mayer

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A Kemptville man tragically lost his life last weekend in a single vehicle snowmobile crash near the town of Limoges in Prescott-Russell. The victim was revealed by the Ontario Provincial Police to be 51-year-old Richard Mclean, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. The incident happened mid-afternoon on January 22, with police, paramedics, and firefighters all responding.

Limoges is located approximately 50 km northeast of Kemptville along provincial highway 417. According to Statistics Canada, an average of 73 people are killed annually due to snowmobiling accidents. The majority of these fatalities involve men between the ages of 20 and 64, and most involve a single vehicle collision (such as a rollover, or a collision with a stationary object).

A post-mortem examination has been ordered, and the exact cause of Saturday’s crash in Limoges is still under police investigation.

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca www.NorthGrenville.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca 613-258-9569 x211 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

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Editorial

The North Grenville Times

Truckin’

by David Shanahan Let’s see now, what’s happening these days? Well, there’s a problem with the supply chain because there aren’t enough truck drivers available to get food and parts to stores and factories. Not a new problem, but certainly made worse by the pandemic restrictions. What else? Well, we’re about to get away from those restrictions, as more and more countries lift their various regulations. Of course, things in the US are still pretty bad, with only 63% of the people fully vaccinated, and more than 882,000 deaths, with around 3,000 new deaths every day. Not a place you would want to be, all things considered.

And so, a certain number of truck drivers decide this is a perfect time to take hundreds, if not thousands of trucks off the delivery system so they can drive all the way to Ottawa to demand their freedom. Freedom! That’s the cry. Personal choice, not mandatory vaccinations for those crossing the US border. Of course, even if the Trudeau government give in

to their demands (mob rule!), it would make no difference, since the US government have the same law in place.

But let’s look at this plea for freedom. They are against mandatory vaccinations. But were they against mandatory training in order to be allowed to drive those trucks?

Were they against mandatory licences to be allowed on the road? Were they against mandatory regulations governing how long they could drive before taking a break, or how far they could drive in a shift? Were they opposed to regulations, laws, dictating how carefully their rigs have to be maintained? Were these mandatory impositions on their freedom not serious enough to drive them to Ottawa to demand freedom?

The thing is, that this convoy is composed of more than those objecting to the laws designed to keep them and their fellow citizens safe.

There are others who want all covid restrictions removed immediately. The fact that this is happening anyway seems to be make their journey to Ottawa a little less urgent. Then there are the real crazies, as one truck-

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, The Battle of evermore

by David Shanahan in the January 19, 2022 delivered important viewpoints about preserving our heritage and history.

I offer no new insights, but with a view to encouraging interest, I will reiterate widely held ideas applicable to the conservation of North Grenville’s remaining legacies. The safeguarding of our historic environment is essential to our sense of community identity. Protection given to our diverse cultural assets expresses our community values.

Despite the ill-considered rush by previous councils to urbanize North Grenville, we are fortunate to have significant standing architecture in our communities and along our byways. Apart from our parks and recreational areas, sections of our substantial greenspaces and wetlands have suffered ecological

degradation through development. We must proceed with caution to preserve our archaeological, architectural, and natural heritage.

Other than the commitment of the citizens of North Grenville, a step to preserving our heritage is tourism.

Visitors need not travel a great distance to explore history and heritage. Preserve it, promote it, and they will come, and inject money into our local economy. However, beyond their enjoyment of history, tourists expect restaurants, shopping, accommodation, and seasonal recreation options.

Visitors patronize local businesses, and encourage new ventures. Beyond downtown Kemptville, cyclists, paddlers, and those in automobiles will seek convenient rest stops with refreshments.

The hamlets of North Grenville have little to none, and the critical mass of visitors to encourage these well-

ing association leader called them: the ones who want the Senate and Governor General to somehow get involved and remove the Trudeau government. Sounds like a coup, and there are those who have expressed a hope that this rally in Ottawa could be “Canada’s January 6".

The official organisers of the convoy dissociate themselves from such ideas, and encourage others to report them to authorities. That’s good, and necessary, and maybe even more helpful than most of the Conservative Party’s comments on the situation. But here’s the thing: organisers cannot always keep control of what they start. I am all for protests, as long as there’s a rationale and a clear and achievable end result.

But I am also someone who has been on their share of protests, and I know how easily a crowd with genuine grievances can be manipulated by a small fringe group of extremists. Coincidentally, last Sunday was the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in Derry, Northern Ireland, when the British 1st Parachute Regiment shot into a peaceful civil rights march,

killing 14 completely innocent people. In response to that, we in Dublin marched on the British Embassy to protest, about 200,000 of us. In the emotional context, some extremists from the IRA firebombed the Embassy, which burned to the ground as we all cheered happily. Later on, we could appreciate how we had been used. Organisers cannot always control what happens to their protests.

At the time of writing, no-one knows how this whole convoy thing will work out.

Will it simply be a peaceful occupation of Ottawa’s downtown? No problem there: people have a right to protest, no matter how vague and unrealistic their demands may be. But if it turns into something else, if the crazies have their way, then thousands of people will have been used, manipulated.

Look, it’s easy to shout for freedom, and some local businesses have gone public with their support of the truckers.

But, to repeat the questions above, why is this mandate so much worse than all the other mandates truckers acquiesce in? We can actually see the end of the pandemic restric-

tions coming soon, so why this demonstration of anger and grievance now?

Part of me is concerned that there are some, maybe many, Canadians who envy the Americans their January 6 Insurrection. They look to the south and want to mirror what they see there, to have their own right-wing militias, their own Fox News fans, their own Trump conspiracy theories in a Canadian context.

This is not a ridiculous idea, because that fringe has been happy to spout their rhetoric and hatred throughout the pandemic, and before. Waving the Canadian flag (some upside down) does not make this event any more Canadian.

But this is not the Excited States of America. This is a country with a very different history, different culture, different political system.

There is absolutely nothing that Canadians need to envy about other countries

located amenities has not been achieved. Of course, inundations of visitors can overwhelm the existing infrastructure of small communities. Good planning is a balancing act of a variety of needs and wants locally and the community-at-large.

North Grenville (and I mean more than the municipal government) can improve the ways through which we promote our heritage to ourselves and visitors. We have a challenge to see our community known beyond the profile-raising Web Pages that tout our 22 designated heritage buildings, walking tours and trails, athletes, notable veterans, and more. As an attraction and repository of our heritage, a community museum is frequently suggested. A planning committee is necessary to meet the established provincial standards for a local museum.

North Grenville’s heritage is more than advantageously conserved old buildings in attractive street scapes. For more information, visit north-

grenville.ca, explorenorthgrenville.ca, and kemptvillesportshalloffame.ca. A Google search will reveal more about our communities.

Michael Whittaker Bishops Mills

by the Municipality that specific criteria are needed to enter premises. There was no indication as to permission to enter a home/building being requested. As a side note, we do have rules and regulations regarding truck traffic and sign sizes on buildings and roads in the downtown core.

Respectfully submitted, G.D. Bungay Kemptville

Dear Editor, Recent news articles concerning two different fatal fires in the U.S.of A prompted me to see what rules and regulations we would have in N.G. to possibly save lives down the road.

Contact was made with Fire and Protective services to find that no direct By-law is needed, because we fall under The Ontario Fire Code, (a 210-page document), and residents are always responsible to check their own detectors. We are responsible for our own safety.

In my opinion, N.G. should do some random checking of detectors, and have results published in our local paper to bring attention to this possible lifesaver.

Notwithstanding a statement

the north grenville

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc.

Marketing/Sales Hayley Bedford hayley@ndtimes.ca 343 777 2702

February 2, 2022

The Voice of North Grenville

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

TIMES Editor David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

OFFICE 613-215-0735

Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

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Staff Reporter Brandon Mayer brandon@ndtimes.ca

and their ways. It may seem more exciting. It may seem that they can adapt American ways to Canadian contexts, but that is a dangerous and damaging belief. Mandatory vaccinations have saved us from polio, for example, even within the lifetimes of people living free as a result.

We all put up with mandates, whether it’s speed limits, driving licences, age limits on voting, limitations on foreign travel with passports and visas. We usually accept that these are necessary to keep us safe, to provide security and prevent chaos and accidents and death. We accept them because we know they keep us, and our friends and neighbours safe. We consider those limitations a price we’re willing to pay for that reason.

None of us are completely free, as a result, and that we accept. Is that concept so hard to grasp? the north grenville

TIMES

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca

Dear Editor, As the past Chair of the North Grenville Police Services Board, I am writing regarding the policing needs of the proposed Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex (EOCC) and my ongoing concerns regarding the resultant property tax increases should this facility be built.

Prison communities in Ontario have historically been responsible for covering all policing costs associated with the provincial correctional facilities in their jurisdictions.

Unless there is a reversal of this long standing provincial policy, the taxpayers in North

Grenville will be on the hook for the policing costs of the Kemptville correctional facility.

Mayor Peckford's news release, issued on December 10, 2021, is confirmation that she understands that the problem exists. Unfortunately, based on what has recently happened in Penetanguishene and other prison communities, her assumption that North Grenville will be an exception to this policy is simply a fantasy. A fantasy that in the end will cost the taxpayers of North Grenville a significant sum of money.

Further, after reading her news release, I certainly question the province’s commitment to pay all crucial costs associated with the proposed Kemptville prison.

Don Sherritt Past Chair North Grenville Police Services Board

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Production production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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2794 County Rd 43, Kemptville The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Humans of North Grenville

by Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan One of the greatest assets that North Grenville has is its residents. Sure, we have wonderful natural assets, forests, and rivers, meadows, and farm fields, we have big city conveniences and small town coffee shops and many diverse businesses.

By far the beating heart of our caring community are the people, the humans. We are very proud that we are a diverse and an inclusive community. We have lined the streets to proclaim that Black Lives Matter. We have painted a crosswalk in rainbow colours, raised the Pride flag, and held a Pride parade. We have welcomed refugee families from war torn countries, and helped them make a home here to rebuild their lives. We

welcome a large number of people with various disabilities as our neighbours.

Most recently, we have invested in learning about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and its Calls for Action. We fly the Every Child Matters Flag year round at the Municipal Centre. We are also very aware that our humans have a range of different social and spiritual needs.

We seek to ensure adequate and affordable housing. We embrace, and welcome, and look out for each other. That has become even more evident during the pandemic, when you could feel the love in our municipality. No matter what your age, sexual orientation, ability, creed, or colour, North Grenville offers you freedom and safety.

Soon, we will host another group of human beings in our community, those who have found themselves in conflict with the law. When the Eastern Ontario Correctional Centre (EOCC) opens in Kemptville, there will also be a group of human beings who work at the facility in a

variety of occupations. Some of them may already live here among us, some may commute here, and some will eventually move here. There will be visitors, family and friends of the inmates who are in the correctional facility.

Many of the inmates find themselves in conflict because of social circumstances, poverty, mental illness, addiction, and a history of domestic abuse. Some simply got mixed up with the wrong crowd and ended up in trouble with the law. I have, personally, had a friend who was in that situation. Parole wasn’t enough to turn his life around, and he ended up in a prison.

After serving his time, he got his life back on track, got a skilled trade and a decent job, married and raised a family.

I also have friends who have been Registered Nurses working in the Correctional Facility in Ottawa. Many have worked there for over 20 years. For them, it has been a rewarding career; but they often expressed concern about the overcrowding and lack of mental health and addiction

supports for the inmates.

I ran for Council because I believe that where we live is a social determinant of our health, and I wanted to advocate for a safe and healthy community. My position regarding the EOCC is based on the same belief. Where, and how, inmates serve their time is a determinant of how they live when released. There is no doubt that the justice system needs improvement in the processes and programming.

As your Councillor, I commit to advocating for an improved justice system, where the facility treats the inmates as humans. They should have single accommodations, where they are safe and have appropriate health care and programing to treat and manage mental illness, addictions, and which provides opportunities to turn their lives around.

I also commit to advocate for my fellow taxpayers in North Grenville. The Solicitor General’s office must pay for the costs associated with this facility's construction and operation, including the policing

and security. I am a taxpayer, like most of you, and believe that the province must maintain responsibility for this institution. I do not want the costs downloaded to us. I support municipal involvement in the site plans. I also support the transfer of surplus lands to the Municipality of North Grenville for agricultural and community use.

The “Heads in Beds” tax, which the province pays to municipalities in lieu of property taxes for institutions like universities, hospitals, and correctional facilities, must be reviewed and increased.

The per capita amount has not been increased since the 1980’s. We all know that that is way out of date.

Dear Editor, An open letter to the Mayor & Councillors for the Village of Merrickville-Wolford Could any member of Council explain to me why the current Council for Village of Merrickville-Wolford has decided to still go ahead with the contentious fireworks on Family Day as of Monday night’s Council meeting? How can you justify being a Partner of the Merrickville-Wolford ECO Champions initiative and then release fireworks into a Federally protected Migratory Bird Sanctuary?

This raises the following concerns: Did the Village of Merrickville-Wolford consult with their lawyer regarding the current Migratory Bird Sanctuary Regulations, as spelled out in the "Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994" (amended current to January 12, 2022), as to whether the lighting of fireworks in a Federally protected area will be seen, and have the same effect on disturbing wildlife, as discharging a firearm in a Federally protected area? And if so, do they need a permit from the multiple appropriate Federal departments prior to commencing with the lighting of fireworks?

Could the Village of Merrickville-Wolford be liable

for not following the current Migratory Bird Sanctuary Regulations, as spelled out in the "Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994" (amended current to January 12, 2022)?

The Rideau River Migratory Bird Sanctuary was Federally designated and gazetted in 1957. It commences at the intersection of the northerly production of the westerly limit of Reed Street in the town of Merrickville. This means all Migratory Bird Sanctuary Regulations of the Federal designated Migratory Bird Sanctuary apply if the Village proceeds to light fireworks within that area.

This boundary encompasses the whole Merrickville Agricultural Grounds and Public Library. www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/migratory-bird-sanctuaries/locations/rideau. laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/ PDF/M-7.01.pdf.

Looking forward to your response, Chuck Willemsen

Dear Editor, An open letter to the Premier.

Premier Ford, Do you agree with the Solicitor General’s guarantee?

13 million dollar contribution for a water treatment for a 235 bed prison facility to be put in Kemptville, on top of $235 million to build the prison?

And then the roads may need a contribution and staff on top of that! Is this good management of Ontario Tax Dollars?

And, it will destroy historic arable farm land, when food instability is increasing!?

My sense of humour just won over an angry response when I read the announcement of the contribution guarantee. And, apparently, the bill for ongoing water consumption by the facility will also be paid. Does the Solicitor General and our MPP, Steve Clark, have a bottomless budget, that apparently such a guarantee can be made? Or are there plans to expand this facility in the future? Who knows?

Well I hope that guarantee was in writing! A facility for a mere 235 people increasing a community project by 32.5 %? The population of North Grenville is just over 18,000 people; a large number on septic, owner-financed infrastructure. The town of Kemptville has a population

of 3,911, according to the 2016 census, perhaps now somewhat over 4,000 people.

Does it make sense to you that Ontario will support such an expenditure for 235 people in prison, while for about 4,000 people increasing with new developments, the expenditure is 62.5% of the total? The cost: “The current estimated capital cost of the project is $39,390,000” (remember the context of this extra expenditure is the gigantic provincial debt, and is just shy of double the figures presented for the plant in the 2015 plan).

If Taxpayers Dollars will not be used, where will Ontario, the Solicitor General, North Grenville, and the proposed prison project get their dollars from?

That is the point where I am confused! The last time I looked, the residents of North Grenville and area are Ontario Tax Payers. All Ontario tax payers, as far as I understand, pay into the Ontario Treasury. The residents of North Grenville also pay municipal taxes. So, does the announcement mean municipal tax and Ontario tax dollars will not be used? How will the various government levels go about paying the $10 million loan +++ etc?

I know that my question sounds absurd, but then, is it, in the face of the explanation?

services

Joe Gauthier Master Electrician

613.802.4608

joe@oldschool-electric.ca

"No Job Too Small"

Letters cont'd Dear Editor, You are a grade 12 student and in Ontario that means you are a high school leader. Sometimes, you just have to do the right thing.

Sometimes you have to lead.

Today, the school bus company called, for the second day, to say that they couldn’t drive you to school. There aren’t enough bus drivers.

So, what are you going to do? What do you aspire to be in life? What education do you need to get where you want to go? How long are you going to let bureaucrats make decisions about your future? About when you can and can’t go to school?

Sure, the new semester starts next week and maybe this week isn’t so important. But, what about the week after, when the buses don’t run, the teachers go on strike, or the health unit or government close down schools? In the past, I have seen high school students organize, for what I consider to be many stupid things. Sometimes, you just need to do what is right for you.

Pamela Gordon

February 2, 2022

9

I believe that there will be financial benefits to our municipality in the form of more jobs, more business opportunities, and more spending at our existing businesses.

Let's accept the EOCC in North Grenville, along with all the humans who will come with it. As a fellow resident I say, why not here? We are a community of Caring Humans.

Does your business go further than North Grenville?

Advertise in our sister paper The North Dundas Times!

Contact Hayley!

Marketing Consultant Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ ndtimes.ca Is this prison project logical and good management of resources? It failed the criteria for placement in Kemptville, but Solicitor General and MPP Steve Clark continue to insist it is as first announced, “unalterable”; and seemingly will cost $235 million, plus $13 million, plus other unknown inflation amounts.

Do you, as I do, find it absurd that this historic farmland in 2022 is the site of the Ontario Ploughing Match and Agricultural Expo, and then destroyed and put under an unbelievably expensive prison / correctional facility for 235 prisoners/inmates?

I end with a strong sense of disappointment at the destruction of the agricultural possibilities of this land, without prior consultation with the affected residents of North Grenville!

Mr. Premier and MPPs, please take a serious look at this project.

Best wishes, Nadia Gray

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Winter Car Care

We’re smack dab in the middle of winter now, and your car has already weathered some foul conditions with more to come.

Winter driving can be tough on your car, but the most important thing is that you and your passengers stay safe.

Keeping your vehicle maintained throughout the winter will ensure it’s running at its optimum levels and you can be confident you’re taking the most important precautions Follow the recommendations below before the winter season to make sure your car can handle winter road conditions.

Battery – Battery power decreases as the temperature drops, meaning that it takes more power to start your car in the winter. If your battery is already having problems, your risk of breaking down increases. It is recommended that your auto care provider installs a battery at or above 600 CCA for optimal winter performance.

Cooling system – It is recommended to maintain a ratio between 50/50 and 70/30 of antifreeze to water. Ask your technician what antifreeze should be used for your vehicle and the appropriate coolant-to-water ratio to prevent against corrosion and potential freezing.

Brakes – While cold weather doesn’t necessarily hurt your brakes, a thorough inspection can ensure the best performance when driving in winter conditions.

R. Rose Autmotive is "Family Owned, Fine Tuned". The

Belts, hoses, spark plugs, wires and cables – These can go bad at any time of year, but if they go bad during the winter, you could be stranded in a very cold place for a very long time. .

Maintain tire pressure - Every 10° change in ambient temperature could mean a gain or loss of 1 PSI. This means you should check pressure more regularly during winter and refill your tires as needed. Appropriate pressure for your tires can be found on the tire placard in the driver’s side door jamb or in your vehicle owner’s manual.

Keep washer fluid full - Replace your windshield wiper fluid often. A single snowstorm can exhaust a large amount of this fluid, so refill the washer reservoir frequently with windshield wiper fluid formulated for winter conditions. If you’re unsure if your washer fluid is the right formula for low temperatures, add a bottle of washer fluid antifreeze to the reservoir. You’ll find it at most auto parts stores.

mechanics at our shop have over 60 years of experience between them. They are dedicated to providing high-quality repairs to keep you safe and happy.

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Office:

Keep the gas tank at least half full - Fill up often! Keeping gas in the tank is more important in winter than in summer.

Why? For one thing, a full tank reduces condensation, which can prevent gas line freeze ups. Not only that, but if you’re ever stranded, your engine may be the only thing to keep you warm until help arrives.

Keep your rear-window defroster in working order Being unable to see behind you could create unsafe driving conditions. That’s why several states have laws stating that all your windows must be clear of condensation and debris.

When winterizing your car, check your rear-window defroster before cold weather arrives to be sure it’s working properly.

Keeping your vehicle well maintained is our top priority

• Trailer Parts and Accessories • Tires Sales and Services • 24/7 Roadside Assistance • Auto Glass Repair • Engine and Transmission Service

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Cell: Towing: 613-880-1654 We now service 2 Goldfinch Fleet Dr., Kemptville vehicles

Experience the Difference at 43 AutoWorks Kemptville

It has been our honour and privilege to serve the people within our great community since 2008. We have built our reputation on listening to our customers’ needs and working within their budget, all while keeping them safe on the road. It is our mission for 2022 to provide the same great service. Keep us in mind for all your future Automotive, 24/7 Towing and Autobody needs.

4062 County Rd. 43., Kemptville Office: 613-258-5209 Cell: 613-864-6762 Towing: 613-850-6902 February 2, 2022

10

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The North Grenville Times

Check for changing temperatures that could affect

PACK A WINTER SAFETY KIT Before heading off on a trip, store common tools and supplies in your car in case of an emergency.

Rekmans Automotive

would like to take this opportunity to introduce the newest member of their team, Shannon Moloughney. Shannon is a Kemptville local and is looking forward to serving the community she lives in as the new Service Advisor at Rekmans.

Rekmans Automotive was established in 2004 and has built a reputation based on 'good, old fashioned customer service'.

Before going out for a long winter drive, check to see how temperatures may change while you’re out. Changing temperatures can affect both your traction and driving ability if there is a sudden change that you’re not prepared for.

For all your Service needs, visit us at Rekmans Automotive We like to keep you and your car safe We carry out all safety protocols to keep us all safe from COVID-19

• Brakes • Air Conditioning • Mufflers, Exhaust • Wheel Alignments • Winter Tires • Summer Tires • Windshields • Trailer Hitch Installation • Batteries • Tune-Ups • Vehicle Maintenance

Ogilvie's Auto & Fleet Service hosts an

experienced team of service advisors and technicians ready to meet all your needs.

Ogilvie's uses only the best products to enhance your vehicle's performance. Our products are industry tested, and you can be sure to rely on quality and craftsmanship to meet your service needs.

February 2, 2022

Gerry and Lorraine Rekmans are pleased to introduce their new Service Advisor, Shannon Moloughney

REKMANS AUTOMOTIVE INC. SERVICE AND SALES 624 HART'S WAY

Call us at 613-258-9888

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY: 8:00 A.M. UNTIL 5:00 P.M.

11

The Voice of North Grenville

Op-Ed Section

Yet more serious questions raised about the proposed prison

by Colleen Lynas News of proposed prison’s wastewater treatment requirements opens up another series of concerning questions. Appreciating that the need for expansion of North Grenville’s water pollution control plant (or wastewater treatment plant) has been known for many years, it was striking to recently read about the additional expansion requirements linked solely to the proposed “Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex”.

Media reports note that between $10 million and $13 million, or up to 33% of the total projected $39.4 million cost of the expansion, is attributable to the needs of the proposed Kemptville prison. The Ministry of the Solicitor General is reportedly committed to paying those additional costs. How could they possibly justify not doing so? However, it is a rather mindboggling number, given the provincial government’s repeated justification for building on the former Kemptville College farmlands – that utilizing the publicly owned site represented ‘value for money’ for the taxpayers of Ontario.

“Building the complex on this site provides good value for taxpayers, as it avoids the need to purchase privately owned land elsewhere”, wrote Minister Steve Clark in one of his submitted responses to a series of questions provided to him by the North Grenville Times and published on September 23, 2020. This assertion, reiterated repeatedly by government representatives in public forums and media comments, was always misleading, given that Infrastructure Ontario has noted that the new prison will cost up to $500 million over the life of a 30-year publicprivate partnership to design, build, finance, and maintain the facility. This enormous price tag does not include the costs associated with the public operation of the prison.

And then, there are all the unanswered questions regarding the pressures the prison’s significant infrastructure requirements will place on the system as a whole, and on the municipality’s bottom line. Large infrastructure projects regularly go overbudget. Has the province committed to funding their portion of any additional costs associated with the expansion of the treatment plant? Will the construction of the prison require any upsizing of sanitary sewers to service the development? If so, is this cost reflected in the province’s portion of the expenditures? Are there risks of aquifer depletion, given the increased demand imposed by the prison? Is there a formal contract in place between the province and the municipality, and, if so, will the municipality release it publicly? Assuming a contract exists, has it incorporated the province’s cost obligations should it choose to expand the prison?

The reality of future property tax increases associated with policing the prison came to light by the sheer due diligence of local residents. Site selection details (scant as they are) were brought to the public through a Kemptville resident’s freedom of information request, which is currently under appeal to have more information released. A group of residents have recently submitted freedom of information requests to the province to obtain the results of due diligence activities being performed at the Kemptville College farmlands, including the report on the anticipated local transportation impacts, land surveys, and environmental assessments. Committing to a plant expansion 33% larger to meet the needs of the proposed prison appears imprudent when these basic facts are not yet publicly known.

And then, there is the upcoming provincial election. In a context where it is possible that the Liberals, New Democrats, and Greens will have more seats than the Progressive Conservatives, and that the former have all had candidates, riding associations, or sitting members raise concerns about the selection of the Kemptville College farmlands as the site for a new prison, would it not be wise to await the outcome of the election before binding municipal taxpayers to an expansion that is substantially larger than needed should the prison not be built?

This latest news about the water pollution control plant raises another series of critical questions, and the residents of North Grenville deserve answers. How will our elected representatives choose to respond? www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Classifieds eds Classifi FOR SALE

Triplex, waterfront, downtown Kemptville. Email redmondjg52@gmail.com for details.

Old used POS system along with two cash drawers, two receipts printers AS IS. $500 OBO. Contact dqkemptville@gmail.com Dust Free N #1 Horse & Cow Hay. Round or small square bales...call Jim 613.258.3561 Horse drawn machinery for horse or small tractor, all types...call Jim 613.258.3561 John Deere residential model 1028E two stage walk behind snowblower with snow cab and owners manual. $600.00. snowblower@cogeco.ca Elvis Gold LPM#4 VG+ & Lightning Hopkins (Blues) LP Sealed , $100, #613-2150835 Firewood for sale. Cut, split, seasoned, mixed hardwood. $105/face cord. Call Ken 613 323 5503

BMW Rims. 205/55R/16 Continental run flat snow tires with working pressure monitors $600. Talk/Text 613-325-0845 WINE BOTTLES, Empty, about 60 of them, suitable for brewing your own wine; $0.50 each. 613258-5558 or gilliantrojan@ gmail.com.

4 x 225/65/17 snow tires on rims V.g.c. $425 o,n,o,; 613 258 6631/613 297 3329 Triple Crown steel hay feeder, 46 W X 74 L X 70 H $350. Contact Reg Smith 613 853-1442.

Used steel farm gates: 4 ft $80, 8 ft $150, 10 ft $175, 12 ft $200. 50 gallon water tub $30. Contact Reg Smith 613 853-1442

CROSSWORD

FOR RENT HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritt's Rapids!

Start an art, musical, or book club to beat the winter blues.

Our hall is well equipped for gatherings or celebrations, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids.com/ WANTED Local young farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail. com.

SERVICES RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repair.

Call George at 613 462 7637

Firewood for sale - mixed hardwood, 3 cord minimum for delivery, $110 per cord, call Jon 613-227-3650

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

The Voice of North Grenville

HANDYMAN SERVICES Call Bill 613 774 2922

INCOME TAX SERVICE in Merrickville John Harris jgharris@sympatico.ca 613-297-7553

ACROSS 1. Negate 6. Double-reed woodwind 10. After-bath powder 14. Unpaid 15. Strike heavily 16. Nanny 17. A river through Paris 18. Carry 19. Go on horseback 20. Traverse 22. Anagram of "Sage" 23. Streetcar 24. Renter 26. City in Peru 30. Card with one symbol 31. Emote 32. Anagram of "Dome" 33. Strong and sure 35. Indemnify 39. Renters

41. A small guitar 43. Clobbered 44. Bit of dust 46. Low-fat 47. And so forth 49. Lie 50. Beers 51. Surge 54. Antiaircraft gun 56. Reasonable 57. Denizen 63. French for Finished or Done 64. Jacket 65. Not inner 66. Boats 67. Solitary 68. A loud sleeping sound 69. Whip 70. Concludes 71. Silk-cotton tree

DOWN 1. Pear variety 2. Pitcher 3. 53 in Roman numerals 4. Hotels 5. Excrete 6. Exclusion 7. Flower 8. In baseball, 3 per inning 9. Excrements 10. A lively whirling dance 11. Girlfriend (Spanish) 12. Burdened 13. Thorax 21. Skill 25. Beige 26. Permits 27. As just mentioned 28. Not stereo 29. Inept 34. Mangles 36. Rind 37. Wings 38. Cravings 40. Catches 42. Souvlaki 45. Impromptu 48. Gum-like substance 51. Viscera 52. Nigerian monetary unit 53. Skating areas 55. Sales booth 58. Midday 59. Bluefin 60. At the peak of 61. Infamous Roman emperor 62. Journey

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Most of us are wanting to lose those extra pounds caused by all of the great treats we had over the festive season. Usually, by the end of January, we have kind of given up and are back to the foods we need to sustain us through the winter. This where you can have some tasty food without paying a high fat or calorie price in the form of Chicken Cutlets.

This recipe is very tasty, and benefits from being accompanied by any of The Big Three: Brussel Sprouts, Broccoli, or Cauliflower. Because of the low fat and calorie count of the cutlets and veggies, you can make up a nice, light cheese sauce to add extra flavour to the vegetables.

Send in your letters to the editor toeditor @ngtimes.ca February 2, 2022

Chicken Cutlets (for 4): Four 5 to 6 oz boned and skinned chicken breasts 5 tablespoons of Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon of soya sauce 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (you should keep some of this around the house) 1 teaspoon of minced ginger A pinch of cinnamon ½ cup Panko Drizzle: 1 teaspoon of Dijon Mustard 1 teaspoon of soya sauce 1 teaspoon of sesame oil 2 tablespoons of lemon juice 2 tablespoons of minced shallots and lemon slices (both for garnish and optional).

Preparation: Place your chicken breasts between 2 sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper, and flatten to a quarter to half inch thickness with a rolling pin, meat mallet, or empty wine bottle; Mix the Dijon mustard with the soya sauce, sesame oil, ginger and cinnamon;

Sprinkle with half of the Panko; Place the chicken with the Panko side up on an oiled broiling pan; Broil close to the heat for 2 or 3 minutes or until nicely browned; Flip the chicken over and spread the remaining mustard mixture and Panko Broil until the chicken is done another 1 to 2 minutes (don’t overcook); For the drizzle, mix the mustard, soya sauce, sesame oil and lemon juice and drip onto the chicken; then, garnish with the shallots and/ or lemon slices (if you wish) Of course, you can be preparing the vegetable(s) of your choice in the meantime to coordinate with the cutlets.

So, the best for a lean February from Paul at pcormier@ ranaprocess.com.

12

Easy

Medium

Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

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The North Grenville Times

Mythunderstandings- An irregular column

Notice of Filing of Addendum

The big mythunderstanding

by David Shanahan Recently I notice, the high profile atheist writers have come up with a witty jab at Christians: “there are about three thousand gods to choose from. You deny just one less God than I do. You don’t believe in 2,999 gods, and I don’t believe in just one more.” On the surface of it, this is a compelling argument, but it falls apart on closer examination.

To begin with, it ignores the major differences between Jesus and Zeus, or Osiris, or Odin. Jesus is an historical figure (as was pointed out in previous articles), and there is an historical record that can be checked and supported by evidence. But what this argument by the atheist is really saying is that there are no gods of any kind, that believing in any kind of deity is equally irrational. But the existence of God is not the argument Christians are making, and the atheist is missing the point. The Gospel is not just a statement that God exists: that is just the start of the claims. As the author of Hebrews says, that kind of faith is basic: “anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. [Hebrews 11:6] Even more pointedly, James, the brother of Jesus, emphasises the status of such faith: “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.”

[James 2:19] Once again, this comes down to how “faith” is defined. True and sincere atheists believe that God does not exist. But where is their evidence? And by evidence, I mean the equivalent of the Christian’s sources: historical records, personal experience of millions from all cultures and societies over millennia, etc. Even the deist, not necessarily a Christian, can point to the overwhelming evidence of design through-

the north grenville

TIMES Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

February 2, 2022

out the universe, evidence the New Atheists agree makes it “look” as though the universe was designed. Their faith is in denying the evidence facing them, by saying that it could not be real evidence of design because there is no design!

A correspondent in this paper recently raised the idea that the New Testament documents are unreliable because of the Gnostic and other writings found in the Nag Hammadi collection, discovered in 1945. Ignoring the history of how the New Testament contents were identified as canonical, or inspired, the implication is that the documents found in 1945 somehow are as reliable as the New Testament and may even have been written

by New Testament writers such as Paul, Peter, Thomas, etc. What is forgotten in this argument is that many of the Nag Hammadi documents were well known in the early centuries, and had been dismissed as canonical back then. It was not unusual for writers to claim that their work was really written by acknowledged Christian leaders, as this gave the work credibility. Their claims were shown to be false by a simple analysis of the content and the style of their work. In places it clearly contradicted the authentic work of Paul, Peter, etc., and often was written in a style, lacking a vocabulary and favourite forms of expression found in the authentic writers of the New Testament.

What is interesting is the fact that they chose those writers, Paul, Peter, James, etc., because of the credibility it gave them. Counterfeits are only possible where the genuine exists and can be copied.

The historicity and reliability of the New Testament documents are acknowledged by academics. Roman historian, A. N, Sherwin-White has said of Luke’s work: “For Acts the confirmation of historicity is overwhelming...

The Voice of North Grenville

Municipality of North Grenville Municipality of North Grenville Kemptville Water Pollution Plantand andBridge Bridge Street Sanitary Kemptville Water PollutionControl Control Plant Street Sanitary Pump Station Optimization and Expansion Pump Station Optimization and Expansion Environmental Study Report (ESR) Addendum Environmental Study Report (ESR) Addendum

and attempt to reject its basic historicity even in matters of detail must now appear absurd”. The eminent historian Sir William Ramsey, as long ago as 1896, spent two decades doing archaeological research in the lands Luke wrote about and noted that, in referencing thirty-two countries, fifty-four cities, and nine islands, Luke had not made a single mistake in his titles, geographical references, political structures, or languages spoken in different areas.

The more time passes, the more evidence is brought to light confirming the contents, historical, archaeological, social and political of the New Testament. Questions that have been raised about whether the text as we have it is reliable, or has been altered or mistakenly copied over time, is one which has also been put to rest. The authority on ancient manuscripts, Sir Frederick Kenyon, who was at one time the Director of the British Museum, wrote in 1958: “The number of manuscripts of the New Testament, of early translations from it, and of quotations from it in the oldest writers of the Church is so large that it is practically certain that the true reading of every doubtful passage is preserved in some one or other of these ancient authorities. That can be said of no other ancient book in the world”.

As always, what is needed most is proper historical and incisive research into the objections atheists raise against the teaching of Jesus.

Honest and fair investigation is what works best in order to find answers, not a presumption about what will be found, what is possible, what can be trusted and relied upon, In other words, in what we can rest our faith. Clearing up the myth understandings and assumptions is essential to truth. Then people can accept or reject what is found, based on informed opinion, and not knee-jerk opposition.

North Grenville is currently experiencing high growth and development pressures and submitted an

Report (ESR) Addendum April 2019 address their need for additional NorthEnvironmental Grenville isStudy currently experiencing highingrowth andtodevelopment pressures and subtreatment capacity of the Kemptville Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) to service community mitted an Environmental Study Report (ESR) Addendum in April 2019 to address their need growth. for additional treatment capacity of the Kemptville Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) to Recommended Alternative and Preferred Design Concepts service community growth.

A new Addendum has now been completed to update the 2019 ESR Addendum. The Ministry of

Recommended Alternative andandPreferred Design the Solicitor General (SOLGEN) Infrastructure OntarioConcepts (IO) recently initiated planning for the

future construction of the Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex (EOCC), which is to be located on

A new has now been completed updatelands the and 2019 ESR Addendum.

The MintheAddendum provincially owned former Kemptville CollegetoCampus is expected to be operational The EOCC will connect to the existing sanitary collection system,(IO) discharging the istry by of 2027. the Solicitor General (SOLGEN) and Infrastructure Ontario recentlyto initiated Kemptville WPCP via the Bridge Street PS. The new Addendum contains details of the required planning for the future construction of the Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex (EOCC), rated treatment capacity, raw wastewater quality design parameters and WPCP upgrades scope that areon required to accommodate the former new Eastern Ontario College Correctional Complexlands whichmodifications is to be located the provincially owned Kemptville Campus (EOCC). SOLGEN will be providing the necessary funds for these accommodations. Please note and is expected to be operational by 2027.

The EOCC will connect to the existing sanitary that only the changes proposed in the Addendum are open for review. collection system, discharging to the Kemptville WPCP via the Bridge Street PS. The new By this Notice, the details ESR Addendum is being rated placed treatment on public record for a raw thirtywastewater (30) day review Addendum contains of the required capacity, quality period in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Class EA process. Interested persons design parameters and WPCP upgrades scope modifi cations that are required to accommay review this document and provide comments to the Municipality. Subject to comments received as a Eastern result of this Notice,Correctional funding opportunities, and(EOCC). the receiptSOLGEN of necessary modate the new Ontario Complex willapprovals, be providing the Municipality may then proceed with the works. the necessary funds for these accommodations. Please note that only the changes proposed ESR Addendum is available for review beginning February 2, 2022 and will be available at the in theThe Addendum are open for review.

Municipal Office, located at 285 County Road #44, Kempville, ON K0G 1J0, open Monday to

Friday, 8:30the am ESR to 5:00 pm. The ESR Addendum willon also be available theday North By this Notice, Addendum is being placed public record for for viewing a thirty on (30) review Grenville website. period in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Class EA process. Interested persons may review this document and provide comments to the Municipality. Subject to Please send any comments by March 4,received 2022 to: as a result of this Notice, funding With a opportunities, copy to: comments and the receipt of necessary approvals, the Municipality may then proceed with the works.

Mr. Mike Finley, P.Eng. Ryan Ashford, P.Eng. Senior Environmental Engineer

Deputy Director of Public Works and

The ESR Addendum is available for reviewEnvironmental beginning February Services 2, 2022 and will be available J.L. Richards & Associates Limited of North Grenville 700-1565 Carling Ave The Municipality at the Municipal Offi ce, located at 285 County Road #44, Kempville, ON K0G 1J0, open 285 County Road 44, PO Box 130 Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R1 Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

The ESR Addendum will also be available for viewKemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Phone 343-804-5297 Phone: 613-258-9569 ext. 139 E-mail: rashford@jlrichards.ca ing on the North Grenville website. mfinley@northgrenville.on.ca

Please send any comments by Comments March 2022 to: collected during the review period will With a copyinto: Any4,information be managed accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection Act. With the exception ofFinley, personalP.Eng. information, all Mr. Mike Ryancomments Ashford, willP.Eng. become part of the public record. If concerns arise regarding the ESR Addendum, Deputy Director of Public Works and Senior Environmental Engineer Environmental Services J.L. Richards & Associates Limited The Municipality of North Grenville 700-1565 Carling Ave 285 County Road 44, PO Box 130 Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R1 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Phone 343-804-5297 Phone: 613-258-9569 ext. 139 E-mail: rashford@jlrichards.ca mfinley@northgrenville.on.ca Comments Any information collected during the review period will be managed in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record. If concerns arise regarding the ESR Addendum, which cannot be resolved in discussion with the Municipality, a person or party may request that the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks make an Order for the project to comply with Part II of the Environmental Assessment Act (referred to as a Part II Order), which addresses individual environmental assessments. A Part II Order Request Form, available online on the Forms Repository Website (http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca) by searching “Part II Order” or “012-2206E”, must be used to request a Part II Order. Requests must be received by the Minister and Director of the Environmental Approvals Branch at the addresses below within 30 calendar days of the first day of posting of the ESR Addendum (up to and including March 4, 2022). A copy of the request must be sent to Mr. Mike Finley of the Municipality of North Grenville (address provided herein). If no request is received within 30 days of the initial posting of the ESR Addendum, the Municipality intends to proceed towards implementation.

Director, Minister David Piccini Environmental Approvals Branch Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Conservation Conservation and Parks and Parks 11th Floor, 77 Wellesley Street West 135 St. Clair Avenue West, 1st Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2T5 Toronto, ON M4V 1P5 minister.mecp@ontario.ca enviropermissions@ontario.ca

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classifieds@ngtimes.ca

MILTONS ESTATES LAW

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY

Wills - Probate - Estates Estate Litigation As heard on CFRA Experts on Call www.ontario-probate.ca

FIRST TEN WORDS FREE 13

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The Voice of North Grenville

The Voice of Merrickville-Wolford

Village enters Recreation Cost Sharing Agreement with Smiths Falls During its January 10, 2022 Council meeting, Village of Merrickville-Wolford Council voted unanimously to enter a 5-year Recreation Cost Sharing Agreement with the Town of Smiths Falls, so that Merrickville-Wolford residents will be able to enjoy the extensive recreation facilities at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre.

“As part of the Agreement, our local residents will be able to enjoy the indoor ice pad, or the walking track above, safely, right close to home”, said Merrickville-Wolford Mayor Doug Struthers. “The continued collaborative dialogue between the Village

and the Town of Smiths Falls has helped to forge a strong partnership between neighbouring communities, and provide enhanced services for residents to have access to this top-notch recreational facility”, Mayor Struthers further noted.

The new partnership, also approved by Town of Smiths Falls Council on January 24, 2022, is a welcome change, and the timing is just right for residents of all ages who are looking to take part in physical and social activities as the pandemic begins to ease.

Merrickville-Wolford Council’s decision to enter into the Agreement is a shift from

the last time Village Council fully reviewed the issue in 2017, when Village Council declined the opportunity.

The Agreement, based on a weighted cost-sharing assessment model, will result in collective benefits for the Village of Merrickville-Wolford, the Town of Smiths Falls, and for the four other neighbouring municipalities committed to the partnership, including Drummond/North Elmsley, Elizabethtown-Kitley, Montague, and Rideau Lakes.

During staff discussions leading up to the Agreement, the group of municipalities uniformly agreed that the weighted assessment model

in the agreement works well to equitably distribute the net costs of operating the $11.9M Memorial Community Centre and Youth Arena facility. The Village’s annual costs as part of the Agreement are anticipated to be approximately $18,000.

“The agreement represents extremely good value for Village residents”, noted a report to Council by Merrickville-Wolford CAO/Clerk, Director, Economic Development, Doug Robertson.

“The fiscal realities facing municipalities, especially smaller communities, make inter-municipal partnerships absolutely critical for pro-

Funding from the Municipal Modernization Program: The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is receiving over $150,000 from the provincial Municipal Modernization Program, which will be used for a Third Party Review of Service Delivery.

Mayor Doug Struthers commented to the Times that “Staff’s application to the Municipal Modernization Fund was successful in securing $152,640 for the cost of an independent thirdparty reviewer of our water/ waste water systems, and to provide further specific and actionable recommendations for cost-efficiencies by January 31, 2023".

Ontario is providing over $28 million to support 322 projects through the Municipal Modernization Program to help small and rural municipalities across the province find better, more efficient ways to deliver local services for residents and businesses.

Municipalities can use the funding to conduct reviews of local services and administrative operations to find efficiencies, including accelerating the creation of new housing through streamlined development approvals and working with neighbouring municipalities to share services.

“COVID-19 has highFebruary 2, 2022

lighted the need for municipalities to be as efficient and nimble as possible, while ensuring services remain financially sustainable today and in the future,” said Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes.

Library records increase in users: The Merrickville Public Library has experienced a very healthy turnaround in the number of users enjoying the library’s programs and facilities, returning to close to the same levels as prepandemic. In October, 2021, the total circulation figure was 2,083, a slight increase on the previous year, though still below the figure of 2,369 from November 2019.

However, by November, 2021, that figure had risen to 2,235, as residents returned to the library in larger numbers.

The Board noted that November is a slow time of the year; however, there are plans to increase the library’s presence on-line and in local media.

Chamber proposes Victorian Lamp Posts: The Merrickville-Wolford and District Chamber of Commerce made a presentation to Council on a project involving placing 70 Victorian-styled lamp posts mounted on blocks of Armour Stone at strategic locations throughout the core Village area, as well as in other places

The Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre reopened on Monday, January 31, with the lifting of Provincial COVID-19 restrictions.

Hours of operation can be found on the Town of Smiths Falls website at www.smithsfalls.ca. Please note that hours of operation may change in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Student Summer Employment 2022

Merrickville-Wolford report

by David Shanahan

viding efficient, effective services to our ratepayers”.

Links to the Village’s Strategic Plan 2017-2025 highlighted in the report include: - Promoting Healthy Living; - Building a Progressive, Growing Economy; and, - Ensuring, Efficient, Effective Services & Civic Engagement.

throughout the Village. The stone blocks will reflect the style of the blocks used in the Canal locks, and will be big enough to provide additional outdoor seating. The lamp posts and stone mounts will be portable and can be removed for winter storage.

This will facilitate the plowing of sidewalks through the winter season. The lamps will be solar powered, the posts will have hanging baskets of flowers, and will be used to decorate for specific public occasions, celebrations, and events.

The initial cost for this project will be around $173,000, with additional costs for replacing light bulbs and batteries. Council were asked to write a letter of support for the project, in support of an application for a My Main Street Community Activator Grant. My Main Street is a partnership between the Economic Development Council of Ontario and the Canadian Urban Institute, and is funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. Should the requested funding be forthcoming, it is hoped to begin the project on March 15 this year.

“Sons of Martha” project: In a previous presentation to Council, a group calling itself ‘The Sons of Martha”, submitted a proposal to restore the Cairn now lo14

cated in Deek’s Quarry, and remove it to a new Public Square in Merrickville [see the Merrickville-Wolford Times, January 19, 2022]. A Report to Council by CAO, Doug Robertson, has recommended that their plan be approved, noting that “it is important that the Project Team receive the approvals and support that they require to move this project ahead as quickly as possible”.

Fireworks: Controversy continues to surround the proposal by Council that Family Day be marked by fireworks in the Village. A survey of residents was held to gather public opinion on the matter, and the Environmental Advisory Committee registered its opposition to the display because of environmental pollution and the impact on the nearby Rideau Bird Sanctuary.

the north grenville

TIMES Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

Public Works Labourers (Salary $15.25/hr) Two labourers required to assist with grounds maintenance and various other activities performed by the Public Works Department from May to August 2022.

Qualifications: Must have valid driver’s licence; willing to work indoors and outdoors; previous experience with lawn maintenance equipment an asset; must be responsible, reliable and attending post-secondary school.

Sizzling Summer Camp Program 2022 Camp Director (Salary $15.50/hr)

(May-Aug) The successful candidate will be a self starter with enthusiasm and the desire to help local youth (age 6-12) experience a fantastic summer of fun and learning. The Camp Director establishes, organizes and operates a schedule of 8-10 summer programs. The successful candidate will hire assistants for the summer. At the end of the Camp, the Director prepares a written report.

Two Camp Program Assistants (Salary $15.25/hr) (July-Aug) The successful candidates must be able to take direction, work well with others, be enthusiastic and enjoy working with youth (age 6-12). The Assistants shall aid the Camp Director to operate the summer program as needed and will supervise and coach children.

For the Summer Camp, preference may be given to students involved in recreational-sportschildren’s studies at a post-secondary institution. First Aid training and previous experience working with children will be an asset. As a condition of employment, each successful candidate shall, upon being offered employment, present a “Vulnerable Sector” check from the Ontario Provincial Police.

Applications for all of the above positions will be received until 4:00 p.m. on, Thursday, March 31st. The envelope or cover letter shall clearly indicate “Public Works”, “Camp Director”, or “Camp Assistant” and be addressed to: Village of Merrickville-Wolford P.O. Box 340, 317 Brock St. West Merrickville, ON K0G 1N0 Attn: Kirsten Rahm, Treasurer Fax: 613-269-3095 e-mail : finance@merrickville-wolford.ca We thank all of those who apply but only the parties invited for an interview will be contacted. Information is collected in confidence under the Freedom of Information Act. The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is an equal opportunity employer.www.merrickville-wolford.ca

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The North Grenville Times

Merrickville’s famous Woollen Mill

by the Merrickville & District Historical Society Following the American Revolution the first Loyalists arrived in Canada, settling first along the St Lawrence and then, in the closing years of the 18th century, working their way north searching for new land and opportunity.

They were closely followed in the early 1800’s by settlers from Europe, the bulk of who were Irish, Scottish, and English. The often inhospitable terrain and environment had the new settlers fending for themselves, causing them to develop a wide variety of skills and knowledge.

The fortunate ones settled along rivers which gave them arable land and at least some access to adjacent neighbouring communities. In the Lower Rideau Settlement, a few resourceful early settlers such as William Mirick, Rufas Andrews, and the Burritts saw the opportunity to harness the power of the river to provide for mills which would serve the needs of the growing number of settlers.

These pioneers were shortly followed by the first settlers who arrived with only a few implements, perhaps an ox, cow and chickens and only the most basic supplies. The rush to build shelter before the harsh winter was the first priority.

Hastily built drafty rude log shanties were barely adequate and were clad as soon as possible with cut boards or replaced with squared logs.

Thus, the wily William Mir-

ick’s first mill was devoted to shaping logs, cutting planks and making shingles.

The first grains from the land in most cases were thrashed on the farm but soon, as production increased, came the need or at least convenience of using local grist mills to obtain flour and feed. Again Messrs Mirick, Andrews and Burritt were happy to oblige.

While much of the land adjacent to the river was highly arable, those settlers who found themselves “inland” were much less fortunate. To clear, till and produce harvest on the dry rocky uneven land was a challenge only the most hardy and determined could accomplish. Sheep were another matter. For them and other livestock, the land was generally agreeable.

Although home spinning and weaving were common pioneering practices, the first stage, the conversion of raw fleece into suitable material was a difficult and time consuming process involving sorting, scouring, raking and washing. Much better was to send the raw fleece to a “carding mill” and get in return sorted and cleaned carded wool suitable for spinning and weaving. And as the flocks grew, the surplus fleece also generated income for trade goods.

As early as 1817, William Mirick had erected a carding mill to serve these local needs, but by the late 1840’s the opportunity was seen to expand the operation

The Voice of North Grenville

NG Photography Club into a full milling operation for manufacturing woollen goods at all stages. By this time cloth making machinery was available in the US and Britain and with an eye to future woollen milling, entrepreneur Stephen H. Mirick, son of William, in 1848, made the significant investment in a full scale woollen mill and factory, the first in the area.

With improved technology and innovation and with the opening of export markets, the mill operated with growing success until the death of Stephen Merrick in 1861, after which the mill continued to be operated by the family but it missed Stephen’s vision and dynamic presence.

Thomas Watchorn, originally from Ireland, was an experienced miller who had worked for Gilbert Cannon in his mills in Almonte and had family connections to the Merricks. With the coming of the railway to Merrickville he saw significant growth prospects and by first leasing in 1874 and then buying the Merricks Woolen Mill from Henry Merrick, in 1885, Thomas Watchorn and his brother Robert became entrepreneurs in their own right. With renewed energy, the Watchorn brothers succeeded in improving and growing the business. They worked to encourage local sheep farming, and used the wool to produce flannels, sheeting, tweeds, and yarn and in later years blankets and sheets. In 1912 Thomas’ son Robert Watchorn changed the name of the mill to Watchorn and Company. In 1891 it was sold and continued to change hands several times over the next years, while remaining in the Watchorn family.

Its last successful era was during the war years when it produced woollen goods for overseas. It was hard work but the many Village employees who worked there were very loyal to the Company. A long time Merrickville resident

recalls: “We worked regular ten hours a day. . . Sometimes we would have to go back and work a couple of hours after supper, to get out whatever the quota was. If it had to be shipped, if it had to go at a certain time, we would have to go back and do it… I’ve spent many a two hours after super, hemming blankets and helping to pack them.”

After the war the business began to decline. Cotton, not easily procured in Merrickville, was replacing wool as the desired clothing material, and the mill eventually closed its doors in 1954. It was demolished in 1976 leaving only a pile of stone rubble and the still visible faint inscription, above the original entrance, “S.H. Mirick, 1848” to remind us of the great enterprise that was Merrickville’s famous woollen mill.

Enjoying the longer days. Photo by Leslie Lloyd.

JOB POSTING Temporary Planner 1 / Special Projects Coordinator The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is inviting applications for the temporary, full-time position of Planner 1 / Special Projects Coordinator for an anticipated 2-year period.

Reporting directly to the Manager, Community Development and indirectly to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)/Clerk, the Planner 1 / Special Projects Coordinator will assist with the coordination of the full range of municipal planning services and provide professional and efficient administration and project management services related to a broad range of municipal special projects and programs.

For a full job description, please visit our website at www.merrickville-wolford.ca.

Applications should be emailed in confidence to Stacie Lloyd, Manager, Community Development, at edo@merrickville-wolford.ca. Please indicate “Planner 1/Special Projects Coordinator” in the subject line of your email.

The Village offers a 35-hour work week, paid vacation, and the chance to work with a phenomenal team in Canada’s Most Beautiful Village.

Deadline for applications is Friday February 18, 2022.

We thank all those who apply but only those invited for an interview will be contacted. Information is collected in confidence under the Municipal Freedom of Information Act and Protection of Privacy Act. The Village of Merrickville-Wolford is an equal opportunity employer.

Do you know someone between the ages of 6 - 17 who is making a difference within their community?

Nominate them for an

40TH

ONTARIO JUNIOR CITIZEN AWARD DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 11, 2022

ANNIVERSARY

NOMINATIONS WANTED February 2, 2022

Brought to you by

Nomination forms are available from this newspaper, and at www.ocna.org/juniorcitizen.

Email jr.citizen@ocna.org for more information.

15

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The North Grenville Times

North Grenville’s Council announces 2021 Civic Awards recipients North Grenville’s Council is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2021 Civic Awards, which are intended to highlight individuals and groups who have showed outstanding service to the community.

“On behalf of Council, we would like to extend our sincere congratulations to all recipients and acknowledge the significant role they have played over the last year in contributing to the culture of caring and leadership on display here,” said Mayor Peckford. “We thank everyone who took the time to nominate an individual or organization.

North Grenville is very fortunate to have such motivated and talented volunteers who want to make our community stronger. These were not easy decisions, given the number and quality of nominations received.”

The 2021 Civic Awards ceremony will occur at the February 9, 2022 Virtual Council Meeting.

For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville. on.ca. Or watch the livestream on the North Grenville YouTube channel: www.youtube. com/user/NorthGrenville/

featured.

The 2021 Civic Awards were awarded to the following individuals and organizations: Agricultural Leadership (Senior, 56 years and older) *NEW*: Joyce Seguin Arts and Culture (Senior, 56 years and older): Herb Cloutier Environment (Group): Sustainable North Grenville Exemplary Work in the Community (Youth, 25 years and younger): Eliza Batchelor Exemplary Work in the Community (Adult, 26 – 55 years): Diana Fisher Exemplary Work in the Community (Senior, Age 56 and older): Neil Whyte Exemplary Work in the Community (Group): Kemptville Pride (Founder and Board) Health and Wellness (Adult, 26 to 55 years): Rebecca Cronk and OmShanti Melanie Charlebois (Joint Award) Health and Wellness (Group): Members of the ParticipACTION Working Group (Municipal Health Wellness & Fitness Advisory Sub-Committee) Debbie Allingham Nick Charman Tanya Deans Stacey Dickson

Snowmobile Drag Race on Davis Road

by David Shanahan A snowmobile drag race event is being held at 252 Davis Road from 8 am to 8 pm on February 12, 2022 and 8 am to 6 pm on February 13, 2022. Snowmobile Drag Racing Ontario is holding the event at the property of Dillabough Sales and Service, a ATV and Snowmobile sales operation.

The event has been held on six previous occasions, usually attracting around 250 people. A noise exemption was applied for from the Municipality of North Grenville to allow the event to take place.

The Municipality does not prohibit or regulate special events on private property through Municipal By-law. Considering the nature of this event, the organizer is seeking a temporary noise exemption from the Municipality’s Noise By-law where the noise may be excessive in volume or persistence. The Municipality regulates excessive noise in accordance with the provisions of By-law 2-14. Section A of the By-Law provides that the racing of any motor vehicle, other than in a lawful racing event approved by the Municipality, is prohibited.

Snowmobile Drag Racing Ontario has taken further measures to manage their event by hiring their own private security and paramedics to oversee the two-day event. This event is part of a larger circuit which hosts events in various municipalities. Three further events are scheduled for the location in March, August, and September. The latter two events will feature ATV’s and, naturally, not snowmobiles.

Details of events, rules, etc., can be found at: https:// snowmobileracing.ca.

February 2, 2022

The Voice of North Grenville

Scouts Canada help kids build outdoor skills

Rick Gerein Darryl Kielec Robert Matheson Phil Mosher Heritage (Group): Burritt’s Rapids Community Association Recreation Sport and Leisure (Adult, 26 to 55 years): Mark Robinson Recreation Sport and Leisure (Senior, 56 and over): Sarah Herring Youth (Group): The Oxford Mills Sisterhood of Guides “We hope to see many members of the public attend Council’s virtual ceremony on February 9th to learn more about the wonderful contribution of the 2021 Civic Awards recipients,” added Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman.

The Civic Awards Program was established to recognize and honour the contributions and dedication of individuals and groups who make outstanding contributions to improving the quality of life for all those living and working in North Grenville.

Since the program began in 2009, more than 50 individuals and 11 groups have been recognized for their efforts.

For more information visit: www.northgrenville.ca/ CivicAwards.

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16

by Andrea McLoughlin Cold temperatures, grey skies and unpredictable weather are hallmarks of winter, and while the instinct might be to stay indoors, getting outside can offer a wide range of benefits for young people. To inspire families get outdoors year-round, Scouts Canada and TV’s Survivorman, Les Stroud, an outdoor expert and Scouts Canada’s newly appointed Chief Scout, are sharing four creative activities to embrace winter and learn some important skills along the way.

Try a summer sport in winter. Deep-snow volleyball, winter soccer or snow golf might seem strange, but it will spark creativity and problem solving to navigate the challenges that come with changing up the games.

Build a shelter, and STEM skills. Building an emergency shelter is an enjoyable way to learn STEM skills. Follow the Scout method of learning by doing and encourage kids to discover what works, what doesn’t, and find solutions themselves. Offer guidance through questions like “how can we make it warmer?” and “how do we keep it from falling over?”

Younger kids can try building a tarp shelter using branches, a tarp and rope, while older youth can use

materials foraged in nature.

No one plans to get lost, but it happens all too often. Knowing how to build a shelter for protection from inclement weather can be lifesaving.

Practice getting lost and found: Embark on a nature walk and let kids take the lead by navigating a trail and leading the way back. Each time they’re unsure of the way, tell them to hug a tree – it teaches them what to do if they get lost, as it’s the best way for kids who get separated from their group to stay put until someone finds them.

A game of lost and find me takes hide and seek to the next level and puts navigation skills to the test. Obtain (or make) a map of the neighbourhood and split into two teams. The team hiding should leave clues about their location that correspond to the map. The second team can then use a map and the clues to seek.

Become an outdoor chef.

The ability to build a campfire to cook a simple meal is an important survival skill. Once kids perfect their fire building skills, try creating a fire with just one match. Be sure to follow fire bylaws and only build a fire if it’s safe to do so.

If you don’t have access to a space to safely cook outdoors, try a cooking challenge at home. Create a meal with-

out using power or select five unusual ingredients that must be used to inspire creativity and problem-solving abilities that would serve them well during a power outage or emergency situation where food is in short supply.

Research shows that outdoor recreation is a fundamental need for children that not only supports physical development, but also contributes to positive selfesteem, mental health and cognitive functioning. Giving kids the freedom to explore and discover is an essential part of play that nurtures imagination and creativity and enables safe risk-taking to test abilities, problem solving and self-regulation skills.

To encourage kids and youth to discover their capabilities, foster resiliency and spend more time in nature, Scouts Canada is hosting a four-week outdoor winter skills challenge, called Claim the Flame, which launched on January 31.

Through weekly challenges, youth will engage in exciting activities designed to strengthen competencies in four key areas: sports and physical activity, building and creativity, culinary, and exploration. Scouts Canada will provide the framework for young people to explore their own ideas through resourcefulness, imagination and leadership.

Canadian families who are not in Scouts can take part by accessing the weekly challenges at scouts.ca/claimtheflame and downloading the Scouter’s Guide, or viewing weekly videos released each Monday, beginning January 31. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing youth to participate as part of a Scout Group, with their families or individually at home, depending on current pandemic restrictions and individual level of comfort.

Remember to prioritize safety for all winter adventures and to Leave No Trace – ensuring nature is left untouched to protect and preserve it for generations to come. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The reality of the outdoor cat

by Janice Atkey Videto How would you have like it if all your neighbours had their dogs defecate on your lawn where your small kids play? No? But house cats, allowed to wander, use the neighbours' gardens for a litter box, so when your neighbours kneel to weed, guess what they land in? Their pets are not in your yard, why is your pet in theirs? The idea that cats need to wander to enjoy their life is outdated and false.

They injure, and suffer injury, at an astonishing rate.

Many of our beloved song bird populations are on the endangered list. The decimation that outdoor house cats wreak on these populations is significant. Contrary to popular belief, cats are not wild. They are not part of the natural order of prey and predator. They are a domesticated species.

Their impact on the natural world is real, and is tipping the scales for many species.

If your cat kills a chipmunk or bird in Spring or Summer, she likely had 2-4 babies in her den or nest who will now suffer and die a slow death of starvation and hypothermia - a horrid way to die.

House cats put outside are subject to death and injury by cars, dogs, coyotes, fishers, household poisons, automotive chemicals and, worst of all, cruelty from humans. There have been many cases of outdoor cats found lynched, or beaten to death: rarely is that put on the news.

Another threat to unattended pets are people called “Rounders”, who make a living rounding up all the “strays”, or just flat-out stealing them from unlocked cars, or outside restaurants. The pets are then sold to labs for experimentation, or used to train fighting dogs; both fates are a gruesome end to an animal for whom we

were supposed to have been responsible. It is big business and is commonplace. Some owners may think, “Oh well, Fluffy just wandered off, I guess”, and go out and get another one. This error keeps the “Rounders" in business.

In our hot, humid summers, outdoor cats suffer heat exhaustion and dehydration that can lead to brain damage and death. Our winters are severe, and delicate ears and toes can easily become frostbitten, and the cat can suffer hypothermia. Cats are not wild animals, and do not grow thick winters coats to protect them in our harsh climate.

Barn cats are the exception, in that these working cats help farmers control rodent populations and, in return for their dedicated lifelong service, are provided with heated sheltered places in which to sleep, supplemental food, and appropriate veterinary care (such as spaying or neutering). Unlike house cats put outside all day, barn cats rarely stray from their own farm, as they are provided with all they need right there.

And speaking of spaying and neutering, with a whopping 6 million adoptable animals being euthanized in shelters every year in Canada and the U.S., no one should be producing more kittens or puppies. In order to really experience what your cat experiences being outside all day (or all night) in the snow, picture yourself in a Spring coat, pants, and socks (no shoes, or boots) spending the day outside, trying to find shelter or food, and imagine how well you would fare. Not too well, I dare say: penetrating cold, wet and frozen feet, hunger, and loneliness. Outdoor cats that I have observed spend most of the day crying and crying to be let inside, holding their freezing pink toes in the the north grenville

TIMES

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone: 343-777-2702 Email: hayley@ndtimes.ca www.ndtimes.ca

February 2, 2022

air in a vain attempt to avoid painful frostbite.

Animal shelters, vets, animal rescue groups, animal control officers, all advocate keeping cats indoors and all pets confined to their yards. Why? Because these people see first-hand the horrific results of straying pets.

A rambunctious young cat can be a bundle of energy in a household, but also a joy.

Putting them outside will not teach them “manners”.

Gentle correction with a firm “no”, or “off”, will quickly teach kitty what areas he is allowed on, and which he is not. Pick the cat up from the kitchen counter, for example, with a firm “off", and place him where he can be. Then praise him like crazy. Cats are highly motivated by positive reinforcement, not scoldings.

Distract incorrect behaviour with a toy and a moment of play, then praise them up when their attention is redirected. It takes consistency, repetition, and patience, but you will be rewarded with a well-behaved snuggly cat with whom you have a deep and bonded relationship. You will learn and appreciate their own unique personality.

Remember, a dog views us as pack leader, but a cat views us as surrogate mother.

As such, it is our responsibility to demonstrate the consistency, repetition, and patience that is part of cat parenting. If you are unable to invest the time in a young cat, do consider adopting an older cat from a shelter who is more likely to look for nice places to nap, like your lap, or snuggled up against you, rather than trying to summit your curtain rods like a mountain climber!

In pleasant weather, take your cat outside in a dog crate with a floor, so they can get all the sniffs while you sit and have a coffee. Or put a body harness on, so he can wander your gardens with you when you are outside. Don’t leave him unattended in either. That only takes a bit more effort than just opening a door, and will bond your cat with you.

A happy indoor cat is provided with snuggles, love, healthy socializing, gentle training, toys, cozy private places to sleep, and is considered a full and valued member of the family. Their human will discover what complex and interesting companions cats are. Please consider this next time you open your door and send your beloved pets out into the harsh world for hours or days at a time.

Grandma took the wrong pill Unintentional poisonings are on the rise. Deaths from poisoning occur at double the rate of motor vehicle deaths.

It’s a heartbreaking fact that many deaths and injuries are completely avoidable, especially when young children are the victims.

Yet, it may be surprising to know this: while children under age 5 account for about 40% of poison exposures requiring contact with emergency services, preventable poisoning deaths are nearly entirely within the adult population. Many factors are contributing to these tragedies.

The opioid crisis is one of the problems. But there are other issues arising from increased isolation and the impact this is having on overall well-being, including among older adults.

Changes in age, health status, and many other considerations can make adjustments to prescriptions advisable. But many older people are trying to limit potential exposure to COVID-19. This, and other COVID-related issues, have reduced doctor visits to review prescription medications. Northern winter is another powerful motivator for one less trip to the pharmacy. It’s placing older adults at risk of deviating from prescriptions.

Prior to the pandemic, unintentional poisonings among seniors were largely due to drug interactions. A large percentage of adults over the age of 65 years are prescribed medications from 10 or more different drug classes, accounting for the majority of all adverse drug-related hospitalizations.

But now there is concern about seniors engaging in intentional self-harm. Even in the best of times, older adults often experience loss of purpose. Retirement, the loss of a partner, and decline in physical health and cognitive abilities are the cause. Now, poor mental health resulting from the unabating doldrums of the pandemic are a new cause for concern.

Self-harm by poisoning should be on the radar.

Past research has shown that older adults who start thinking about suicide often have relatively easy access to large quantities of potent medica17

tions.

What can be done if you fear a loved one has taken the wrong medication, or if there is any other fear of poisoning?

In Canada, more than 4,000 people lose their lives each year due to poisoning. In the U.S., about 6,000 people call poison control helplines every day. But an estimated 4,000 to 9,000 more don’t call for help when dealing with a poison exposure. That’s a lot of people taking potentially life-threatening problems into their own hands.

Why don’t they call?

Some people simply don’t like seeking help over the phone. They may be embarrassed, feel judged, or worry about scaring children who overhear the discussion. Adolescents and young adults are increasingly resistant to using the traditional technology of a phone call!

Despite statistics showing increased cases of unintentional poisonings, poison control organizations report declines in call volumes over the past decade. So, they are developing new options.

Fully automated and interactive tools may not be the same as speaking to an expert on a helpline. But these online and downloadable resources do offer a new way to get

fast assistance. One example is available at www.poison. org. It enables people who fear a mix up in medication to scan barcodes on products, use imprinted codes on pills, or even enter descriptions of the size, shape, and colour of medications. These tools can help determine if an emergency room visit is needed.

Take a look at online resources for a refresher in poisoning prevention. In addition to medication, they offer reminders about the perils of household cleaners, little batteries, and the ubiquitous hand sanitizer. Helping grandma be safe can involve keeping all these risky items out of reach of her grandchildren too.

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

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The North Grenville Times

UCDSB report

North Grenville’s Local Financial Service Professionals

Return to In-Person Learning School Operations Update:

Superintendent Marsha McNair reported to the Board that students returned to inperson learning on January 17. She confirmed that students will receive two rapid antigen test kits to use if they develop symptoms. If positive, the individual will be required to self-isolate for a period determined by their age and vaccination status.

Students started to receive kits last week.

To support ongoing monitoring and public transparency related to COVID-19 and the impact on schools, the Ministry of Education requires schools to monitor their absenteeism rates and report on student and staff absences, and school closures, each day. Schools report all absences, not just those related to COVID-19.

If absenteeism rises to 30 per cent above the school’s normal absence rate, principals are required to notify their local Public Health Unit. As an additional measure, UCDSB schools are reporting on their school websites when an individual has left for the day with COVID-19-like symptoms.

Remote Learning and Semester 2 Update : Superintendent Susan Rutters reported that while the majority of students have returned to in-person learning, the district has seen an increase in those choosing to

The Voice of North Grenville

remain in remote learning. As of January 19, 7.5 per cent of elementary students and 8.5 per cent of secondary students had chosen remote learning.

Those currently in remote learning can move to inperson learning at any point.

Superintendent Rutters confirmed that Grade 9-12 students would move to a four-course semester model starting February 2, a move that is supported by both public health units. Secondary schools will implement a district-wide timetable. This timetable has a common start time, end time and bell schedule in all UCDSB secondary schools and will support the continuing efforts to co-ordinate program delivery across the district to bring greater equity of access to program options for students.

Student Trustee-Led Equity and Inclusion Committee Proposed: Student Trustees Eshal Ali and Bradford Ward reported to the Board they have been working alongside Daniel McRae, Principal of Equity and Inclusion to create a Student Trustee-led equity and inclusion committee.

School principals will be asked to nominate students to the membership. In order to have voices from across the district and all grades, each principal will be asked to nominate a student from

Grades 7-9 and another from Grades 10-12.

Staff Share Findings on Student Wellness and Sleep: UCDSB’s Dr. David Armstrong, Chief Psychologist and Mental Health Lead, and Dr. Jennifer Curry, Chief Psychologist, presented to Trustees the importance of and correlation between a student’s sleep time and academic performance. Dr. Armstrong shared research findings that school start times that were later than at least 8:30 a.m. showed, on average, improve-

ments in academic performance, increase in sleep time and decrease in sleepiness.

Their presentation also included how UCDSB uses research-backed materials and supports from School Mental Health Ontario to support student wellness.

Staff Shortages Update: Human Resources Superintendent Chad Brownlee reiterated to Trustees that the UCDSB faces the same staffing challenges as other school boards in the province. Sixtyfive per cent of staff absences

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are currently being filled, which is a lower fill rate from pre-COVID-19 numbers.

Principals are implementing strategies at each school to mitigate these shortages and have plans in place should there need to be a shift to remote learning.

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UCDSB Board agree to keep Oxford-on-Rideau open another year The Board of Trustees for the Upper Canada District School Board [UCDSB] was presented with updated information, regarding enrolment numbers, facility, and other conditions related to Oxford on Rideau Public School, as a follow-up to a December 15, 2021 motion.

Superintendent Deanna Perry shared the report which contained enrolment data, actual and projected, for the Kemptville area schools, as well as community population statistics.

Following the presentation, Trustees elected to stay the implementation of the school closure until further consideration of the staff report can be done. Oxford on Rideau Public School will remain open until at least June, 2023.

Mechanic/Operator Join our team as a water/wastewater professional. The Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) believes in Our Communities, Our Environment and Our People. As a trusted partner to municipalities, First Nations communities, businesses, governments and institutions across Ontario, we provide our clients with total solutions in water and

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wastewater. In this permanent position, you will use your maintenance skills to perform predictive, condition-based monitoring, preventative maintenance, repairs, installations, upgrades, and major equipment overhauls, participate in capital projects, and operate all process control and other related equipment required in operating and maintaining the facilities and systems within the Eastern Region. Location: 108 Collar Hill Rd., Merrickville.

To qualify, you must have a Trades licence as a Millwright and/or an applicable skilled

Grant Eastwood Nickname: EASTY Born: St. Louis, Missouri Position: Right Wing Previous Hockey Club: Kimball Union Academy Hockey Hero: Sydney Crosby Most Inspiring Person: My Father Favourite TV Show: Walking Dead Favourite Movie: Hangover 3 Favourite Food: Chuck Wagons Favourite Hockey Moment: Winning championship at my old school Life as a Jr. A player : Super fun

trade, be willing to obtain Operator-in-Training (OIT), as specified in O.Reg. 129/04 of the Ontario Water Resources Act, hold a valid Class G driver’s licence, and be available for overtime and able to be on-call after regular working hours as part of a rotation.

Proficiency in English is required, and advanced-level oral and written French is preferred.

Salary range: $26.83 - $29.11 per hour (plus pay for water/wastewater certification) Please visit ontario.ca/careers to view detailed job information, including qualifications. Apply by e-mail, quoting Job ID 175175, by Friday, February 11, 2022, at KKlein-Swormink@ocwa.com. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.

Ontario Clean Water Agency is an equal opportunity employer We will accommodate your needs under the Ontario Human Rights Code

613 258 2902 - 3-15 Precision Drive

February 2, 2022

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www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Menu # 98 Wed Feb 2 - Feb 4, 2022 We are so close to getting out of this… we are approaching 100 weeks of Curbside menus… please email us your requests for favorite dishes for us to prepare.

1:30-4:30pm Pick up at 820 Heritage Drive. Kemptville Campus Order & Pay online www.cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136 Please Preorder the day before for next day pick up $37.50 Complete Meal for 2 + HST $70.00 Complete Meal for 4 + HST All Family Meals include Chef's choice of Appropriate Side Dishes.

Add a Dessert of the week: Sticky Apple Cake with Caramel Sauce $2.50 slice Beef Vindaloo (Vegan Option Available) (GF) Spicy Beef in Savory Onion & Chunky Tomato & Potato Curry | Basmati rice | Vegetable Samosas & Cilantro Chutney | Flatbread | Raita | Chef's choice of veggies | Salad Loaded Stromboli (Vegetarian Option Available) Housemade Stromboli - Italian Sausage, Peppers, Mushrooms & Cheese | Italian Wedding Soup - Mini Meatballs, Pasta & Spinach | Veggies | Caesar Salad Kit Lemongrass- Coconut-Green Curry Pork Tenderloin or Tofu (G/F D/F VEGAN) Tender Pork loin | Jasmine Rice | Asian veggies | Crispy Spring Rolls w/ Plum Sauce | Wonton Soup

STORE HOURS Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

301 Rideau Street, Kemptville

613.258.3014

Chicken & Waffles or Tofu & Waffles (Vegetarian) Dill brined fried chicken OR Dill brined fried tofu | Buttermilk Waffle, Honey Butter, Bourbon Spiked On The Bend Maple Syrup| Scallion | Cornbread | Market Veg | Salad Upcoming Events (RSVP ONLY & Covid Restrictions dependant): Valentines Day Menu 2022 Curbside 4 Course $80 for 2 + HST Saturday, Feb 12 & Monday Feb 14th Complete with gentle reheat instructions & a rose Course #1 Roasted Tomato Bisque with Parmesan Dusted Croustade Course #2 Crudo Fruit & Vegetable Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette in Baby Bib Lettuce Main Entree -All Meat Entrees are served with Chive Whipped Potatoes & Vegetable Bouquet Choice of: Surf N Turf - Beef Medallions with Garlic Shrimp and Red wine Demi Glace OR Chicken Marsala with Cremini Mushrooms Or Vegan Ricotta Manicotti with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Course #4 - Petite Flourless Black Forest Cake *Whalesbone (Ottawa) Oyster & Tapas Night & Live Music - Sat Feb 26 2022 *On the Bend Maple Menu March - date to be announced Catered Affairs has a beautiful venue space & creative ways to keep friends, family & staff socially distanced & safe… contact us for availability! We can now accommodate up to 50 guests inside Heritage Hall.

Book your event with Catered Affairs on the picturesque Kemptville Campus Corporate Events & Meetings, Christmas Parties, Special Occasions & Weddings 820 Heritage Dr. Kemptville Campus 613-324-3136 info@cateredaffairs.ca www.cateredaffairs.ca February 2, 2022

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The Voice of North Grenville

Canadian Farmland is a Global Oasis

by Ralph C. Martin In John Ibbitson’s Globe and Mail article “There may be an answer to the housing crisis - Let cities sprawl”, he wrongly assumes that "increased agricultural productivity compensates for land taken out of use for housing."

There is a growing awareness among agriculturalists that, as the climate shifts with a subsequent increase in heat waves, droughts, fires, floods, and storms, farm yield stability is becoming more precarious. Up to ⅓ of food production is expected to be outside the safe climate space within 60 years, especially in SE Asia with high populations (https://bit.ly/3nVXUTK ).

The market for Canadian food will grow, and Canadian farmland will increasingly become a global oasis.

It is our reasonable service to protect it.

Yields will drop when climate perturbations cause local weather variations of too much, or too little, moisture at the wrong time, or temperatures that are too high or too low at the wrong time. Now that we have tumbled into the rabbit hole of the Anthropocene, crop production realities will shift.

In the four decades prior to 2007, applications of synthetic fertilizer increased 5 to 7 times, while global food production only doubled (https://bit.ly/3rHkP6g).

Nitrogen (N) fertilizer use, the main driver of high yields, has gone up at least 8 times since 1960. Some argue that about half the global population depends on N fertilizer for food. In the last few months natural gas prices have escalated (https://bit.ly/3IBXidS). Natural gas is the source of hydrogen to manufacture N fertilizer, with added costs of energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to achieve high temperatures and pressure for the process.

Fritz Haber discovered how to make N fertilizer in a lab in 1908, and his buddy, Carl Bosch, scaled it up a few years later to fertilize German crops in WWI. Since then, many farmers around the globe have been dependent on it. N fertilizer was the engine of the Green Revolution in the 1960s. By 2015, Steffen and his colleagues demonstrated that, within a century, humans raced toward and then crossed the planetary boundary into the high-risk zone of excess reactive N in our biosphere (https://bit. ly/3fYGaCN).

Given increasing economic, energy, and GHG costs to manufacture N fertilizer, and the high-risk of continuing to flood our biosphere with nitrate, nitrous oxide, and ammonia, humans should not rely on the elixir of N fertilizer to increase agricultural productivity even more.

Furthermore, it is not ecologically nor economically responsible to “let developers flood the market with cheap housing and to lay down the highways – such as the 413 and Bradford Bypass”, as Ibbitson proposes.

Prime agricultural land is the most resilient to climatic disruptions and the most dependable for maintaining at least some production under extreme conditions. We need all the prime farmland we can preserve, including in areas surrounding the main urban centres in Canada.

The Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario is clear about their position. “Defined prime agricultural areas are where development should not occur.” Similarly, “the Ontario Federation of Agriculture believes that the Ontario government should designate all lands in Ontario that are outside of current urban boundaries as Greenbelt.”

According to Ontario Farmland Trust, Ontario loses 175 acres of farmland and productive agricultural soil every day. Stop already! We’re not in the Holocene anymore.

Even if global population peaks at 9.7 billion people in 2064, and declines to 6.9 billion by 2100, (https:// bit.ly/3fS0NR4 ), 1 billion less than today, every acre of prime agricultural land will be needed. After land is sealed by construction, its roles of providing oxygen, clean water, food, resilience based on biodiversity, and sequestering carbon will cease. As creatures of Earth, we have strained her forgiving sustenance as far as we dare.

Ralph C. Martin, Ph.D., Professor (retired), Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph. Information on book, Food Security: From Excess to Enough, at www. ralphmartin. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

CUPE Ontario calls for an unprecedented budget It’s time for the Ford Conservatives to commit to historic investments in public services with its last budget before the provincial election, said the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Ontario during consultations.

“There is only one way forward, and that is for Ontario to commit to major and historic investments in public services of all kinds, and to life-changing wage increases for public-sector workers that will make up for years of income loss and shore up a generation of desperately needed workers,” said Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario, today during his presentation to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs. “We are asking you to think about what is needed to make sure public services are not only there for us in the future but are thriving and are the envy

of the world. This is what our members demand, and it is the least that Ontarians deserve.”

CUPE Ontario’s budget submission as well as Hahn’s presentation highlighted that, while the economy and corporate profits have grown, with the latter continuing to skyrocket through this pandemic, successive Liberal and Conservative governments have enforced real wage cuts and have steadily shrunk the funding of public services.

With inflation skyrocketing, said Hahn, if all broader public sector workers who fell under the wage cap of Bill 124 were subject to it last year, that would amount to wage theft of nearly $3-billion, with the average worker losing $2,304 annually.

The Ford Conservatives have also failed to sufficiently spend on public services, according to CUPE Ontario.

Hahn’s presentation noted

OFA brings agriculture’s message to forefront at ROMA 2022

that the government’s fiveyear recovery plan forecasts that average program spending will only grow 1.5% annually when the Financial Accountability Office (FAO) of Ontario says that we would need a 3% increase to simply match inflation and population growth. That’s an annual reduction in spending of $1,281 per person across Ontario by 2029.

“Workers have borne the brunt of all these cuts, and of trying heroically to deliver vital services in impossible conditions. They are exhausted.

They are fed up. They need a lifeline. They need to be compensated and they need to know reinforcements are on the way,” said Hahn. “This is the Ford Conservatives’ last chance before our first election since this unprecedented crisis.”

by Mark Reusser, Vice President, OFA The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) attended the 2022 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference. Over a three-day period, organizational representatives were involved in productive conversations with key stakeholders about issues and priorities impacting the economic growth and development of our rural communities and the agri-food sector.

OFA recognizes that in order to keep this industry profitable and productive, we need to ensure the rural communities that support our farm businesses remain healthy and viable through necessary investments and distributed economic development. Key priorities that brought to the table include advocating for rural infrastructure investments, healthy hubs and vibrant communities, affordable and accessible mental health services, fast, reliable broadband and working with stakeholders to navigate the Conservation Authorities (CA) regulations.

It’s widely publicized that Ontario’s agri-food sector is a major economic driver in the province, contributing more than $47 billion to Ontario's annual GDP and generating over 860,400 jobs. Investments in agriculture and our rural areas has potential to increase economic productivity and prosperity for all Ontarians. However, farming and rural communities continue to experience shortfalls in funding due to the disproportionately large infrastructure base in relation to population.

A key component of our Producing Prosperity campaign is increased funding to rural municipalities for infrastruc-

Can owning a dog get your home insurance revoked? allowed to go in terms of Local Journalism Initiative Reporter gathering information and making exceptions to, or even A recent news article pub- denying, policies based on lished by the Kingstonist tells gathered information. Simthe troubling tale of a family ply put, different insurance who lost their home insur- companies will naturally have ance because their dog was different questions and policy deemed to be of a “dangerous restrictions. More restrictions breed”. The family owns an protect the insurance comAmerican Bulldog, which was pany from liability, but less considered similar enough to restrictions means a greater other dog breeds on a list of likelihood of attracting clirestricted animals at Allstate ents. Different companies Insurance, where the family view this balance differently. had their policy. The family’s One reason it is important to dog was a rescue animal and tell the truth when asked a had no history of aggression question by your insurance toward anybody. But Allstate company (or when getting an held firm that the insurance insurance quote), is that lying policy would be revoked if can render your policy void they kept their pet. Luckily, when you need it most – that the story has a happy ending is, when you want to make - another insurance company, a claim.

Some simple examples of local to Kingston, offered the family a policy for their this are: lying about whether home (this company had no you smoke tobacco in your home, or whether you have a restricted dog breeds list).

Situations such as this woodstove, and then experione raise the question of how encing a house fire. Such lies far insurance companies are could actually be just cause

by Brandon Mayer

February 2, 2022

The Voice of North Grenville

for your insurance company to refuse to pay up to cover the loss, meaning you have been paying those premiums for nothing. In the case of a dog bite, if you have lied about having a dog, you could be on the hook for the entire monetary settlement, if you are sued for the injury on your property.

Protecting yourself when it comes to insurance is usually straightforward – if questions are asked, make sure you answer them honestly, and review any policy documents carefully. If one insurance company is making an issue out of something, such as dog ownership, never lie or change your answer to get a policy. Chances are, another company will be happy to sell you a policy. Applying for insurance is, therefore, one prime example of when honesty is the best policy.

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ture improvements, including natural gas, roads and bridges, drainage and broadband.

Distributed economic development has the potential to create job growth, build affordable communities and secure a sustainable food production system for all Ontarians to enjoy. Infrastructure investments can grow existing businesses, attract new companies and boost opportunities for regional economic development. It will support economic growth for the agrifood sector and ensure we have strong and vibrant communities.

Infrastructure investments such as fast, reliable broadband connection is another vital necessity we are advocating for in rural communities. Reliable, high-speed internet should be deemed an essential service as it is vital to the continued growth and development of rural Ontario.

Reliable internet supports our farmers and rural communities. Without it, rural businesses, residents and schools are at a competitive disadvantage. Our farmers run modern businesses that require innovative technology, high-speed internet access and reliable cellular coverage.

Healthy hubs and vibrant communities are necessary, but unfortunately lacking in many rural areas across Ontario. At times, farmers sacrifice proximity to health care systems, schools and childcare due to the remote nature of their work. Over the years, we have seen many school closures which directly impact farm families.

When a rural school is permanently closed, municipalities fail to realize the potential impact on cost and education accessibility for families in rural areas. Longer commutes to the classroom can directly impact student performance, concentration, and participation in extracurricular activities. These closures also impact the community – removing children present to spend money or beavailable for after school employment.

Rural towns also experience decreased access to healthcare facilities such as doctors' offices, specialists and hospitals. OFA believes farmers and rural residents must have equal access to affordable, high-quality healthcare services, facilities and practitioners that urban Ontarians currently have. Access to local family physicians is a necessary support that should be accessible to the farming community to ensure quality of life and health.

Along with accessible healthcare facilities, mental health also remains a key priority and advocating point for OFA. The challenges associated with farming can significantly affect mental health and well-being. It is vital to recognize the unique needs of a farmer dealing with a mental health crisis. Living within rural communities has limited access to mental health services and resources, creating a deficit in support available to farmers and rural communities. Without a longterm plan for stronger mental health resources, this matter could become a significant detriment to the growth of Ontario's agriculture industry.

As Conservation Authorities are completing their watershed-based resource management strategies and reviewing their funding agreements with participating municipalities for nonmandatory programs and services, we encourage all parties to consider maintaining existing programs such as Total Phosphorous Management programs. We are pleased to have agricultural representation on the Conservation Authorities Board and are looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with stakeholders and representatives on CA regulations that impacts farm businesses.

OFA is dedicated to driving positive change for farmers, businesses and rural residents, ensuring they have equal access to the infrastructure, services and support they need. www.ngtimes.ca