Issue 51 2020 Dercember 23 MG Times

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

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from our family to yours

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December 23, 2020

Merry

Christmas &

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New Year The North Grenville Times will be closed for two weeks. Next issue comes out on January 13, 2021

From our family to yours,

Happy Holidays!

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WISHING YOU A SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON

Christmas Greetings from St. John’s United Church, Kemptville.

From our Kemptville Physiotherapy famliy to yours

PHONE

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Christmas will be different this year given the realities of the Covid-19 pandemic. We will miss being together in person in the sanctuary. An invitation is extended to all to join virtually for the Advent and Christmas services. https://www.kemptvilleunitedchurch.org/news/daily-updates St. John’s has been busy developing creative ways of delivering our Christmas message. Our traditional cantata, recognizing Covid-19 restrictions, will be a part of our December 20 online service.

Christmas Eve worship will be online as well. “Pippin the Christmas Pig”, used with permission and shared by our youth and young families, is a heartwarming story of hope, wonder and the true Christmas spirit.

May the music, messages and prayers during Advent and Christmas convey to you the hope, peace, joy, and love of God’s abiding love.

And so the time has come.....

After 15 enjoyable years of continuing with the tradition of Albert's Meat Shop, we will be closing our doors on January 23 2021.

We want to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the loyal support from our customers over the years and for the friendships we have shared. Thank you for making it possible for us to be a part of this amazing community!!

Most of all we will miss our daily interactions with our customers that were always entertaining and heartwarming. We hope that we have been successful in our aim to offer exceptional quality and maintain excellent customer service.

Again our thanks!! It has been our pleasure to serve this community!!

Mike and Susan Simpson Owner/Operators Albert's Meat Shop

Blessings, Your friends at St. John’s United.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Proposed 65.0 Meter Telecommunications Tower Site OBK3013 Located at 26 Tophmar Road, North Grenville ON Freedom Mobile Inc. has proposed a 65.0m tall steel lattice style telecommunication tower and related radio equipment toward the rear southwest corner of private property at 26 Tophmar Road, North Grenville, ON. The proposed structure will enhance wireless coverage for the Municipality; specifically, this site will provide enhanced coverage for Kemptville in the vicinity of Highway 416, County Road 43, Prescott Street and the surrounding area.

Local business supporting local people

The geographic coordinates for the proposed site are as follows: Latitude: (NAD 83) N 45° 01’ 10.4” & Longitude: (NAD 83) W 75° 37’ 18.8”. The facility is proposed in an Industrial zone and will occupy a ground compound area of 15.0m x 15.0m.

THIS NOTICE serves as an invitation to any interested members of the public to submit comments or requests for additional information to the individuals listed below by Monday January 25, 2021.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the approval of this site and its design is under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Government of Canada through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). For more information on the federal process pertaining to these installations please contact the local ISED office at: ic.spectrumenod-spectredeno. ic@canada.ca OR Tel: 1-855-465-6307 SITE LOCATION MAP FORBES BROS LTD: Sean Ogilvie Real Estate & government Affairs Unit 130, 482 South Service Rd E Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2X6 Tel: (647) 224-4399 Fax: (888) 622-4939 Email: sogilvie@forbesbrosltd.ca Municipality of North Grenville: Don Lewis, Building Department 285 County Road 44, PO Box 130 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: (613) 258-9569 ext. 130 Email: dlewis@northgrenville.on.ca

by Claire Larabie The North Grenville Community Service Council [NGCSC] wishes to thank all who stepped up to help so many in our community have a special holiday. The NGCSC is made up of representatives from the Lions Club, Kemptville Kinsmen, the Kemptville Rotary Club, the Royal Canadian Legion

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Branch 212, and the Knights of Columbus, all working together to ensure that noone in North Grenville is left without at any time of the year, but especially over the Christmas season.

Thanks go to Randy Cavill at Walmar Ventilation Products, along with his family and staff, who have been donating gift cards for

Freshly baked goods Homemade frozen meals Pizza & subs LCBO/Beer Store convenience outlet

Happy Holidays • • • •

Happy Holidays

Vehicle repairs Class “A” Mechanic Sale Phone of Quality PreOwned Vehicles 613 258 6402 Flat Bed Tow Truck

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

families in NG at Christmas for some time. They started by donating one box of candy canes for each family years ago. Over time, Randy decided they could do better, so he sent Grocery Cards to meet some special needs and to a few seniors. A few years ago, staff came on board, enabling them to help more, including helping older students. One program helps those with cancer, other illnesses, or special needs kids, who are the hardest to find help for.

A loud shout out for the many years that the staff at Kempville Rona Building Centre have been providing for families. Hulse, Playfair & McGarry give Canadian Tire and Subway cards. MNR staff arranged a $500 donation from their Union, and sent funds to the Community Fund and Community Service groups.

Many thanks to the staff at Canadian Tire, who each year have made Christmas special for a few families struggling with illness in the home. We have the kindest people in North Grenville.

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"No Job Too Small"

Kemptville Christian Reformed Church holds COVID-friendly Christmas event

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Ina Dykes, Gordon Dykstra, Evelyn Dykstra own character and unique Local Journalism Initiative Reporter activity for kids to do.

Tori says they first decided to do something for The Kemptville Chris- Christmas because many tian Reformed Church children and their famiheld a special family event lies were really missing on Sunday December 6 in the programming that the the spirit of the Christmas Church usually provides.

Tori found the template for season.

Organized by Youth the event from a churchMinistry Coordinator Tori based organization called De Shiffart, the event was Group and adapted it to be set in Bethlehem and in- COVID-19 safe.

The original event was cluded five stations each with a different theme. The meant to be group-based, fisherman’s peer, toyshop, but in order to ensure parwool trader, spice shop ticipants’ safety, they orand bakery all had their ganized the evening into

by Hilary Thomson

three different time slots.

Only five families were allowed in the Church at a time, and each family unit went through all the activities on their own.

Tori was extremely happy with how many families signed up for the event, with 14 groups filling up most of the time slots.

While the majority of the people were members of the Church, Tori said they did have two families from outside the community who participated. “We are a smaller church so that is a great turnout for us.”

Tori said it was great to see some of the children from the Church who she hadn’t seen for months because of the pandemic.

She felt it was important to hold some type of event at the Church this year to lift people’s spirits and allow them to have fun and be social in a safe way. “We wanted to make a space for families in this time to create a Christmas COVID memory.”

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Editorial

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And so this is Christmas...

by David Shanahan Everyone has a favourite Christmas carol or two.

Some are older, religious ones, like “Away in a Manger”, or “Joy to the World”.

Others are secular and more recent, like “Silver Bells”, or “White Christmas”. For me, every year, when I think of songs for the season, John Lennon’s “Happy Christmas (War is Over)” is what comes to my mind. I think it’s the question he asks that really speaks to me: “And so this is Christmas, and what have you done?”

I don’t take this as a threat, or a guilt thing: it just makes me think about the year that has passed and wonder what I have done with it. The years are passing more and more quickly now, and there are not as many left to me as there were, so the question becomes ever more relevant. Each of us have to answer it for ourselves, but there is something about this issue of the Times that is so encouraging for me, and, I hope, for you too.

In this strange and challenging year of Covid, the

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world has learned just how vulnerable we are, and how quickly and easily things can fall apart. In the world in which we live, good news is sometimes hard to find.

Cynicism and pessimism often seem the predominant attitudes, and there are too many times when such negativity seems justified.

Whether you are a Christian or not, Christmas is one time of the year when the negativity can be put aside for a few days or weeks. If you can ignore the commercialism and greed, not always easy to do, there is so much positivity around. People smile more, take pleasure in finding the right gifts for loved ones, and look forward to relax away from the day-to-day stresses of life, even in socially-distanced and keeping-to-your-bubble ways. And that can’t be a bad thing, can it?

People like to talk and write about “the true spirit of Christmas”, but I find that not many seem to know what that is. For Christians, it is easier to define, I suppose. It means that God showed his love for us by being born into human nature and sharing

our humanity in order to tell us about himself. More than that, he provided a way for each of us to know him and to discover why we are here, and what the meaning of life really is. That is quite a gift.

It always amuses me to think that the birthday of Jesus is celebrated every year by other people receiving gifts.

But that is God for you: wise men still seek him.

This is our last issue of the Times before the end of the year. No paper next week, I’m afraid, we’re taking a week or two off. The next copy will be on January 13, marking the start of another unpredictable year. To continue the John Lennon quote: “Another year over, and a new one just begun”. What will 2021 bring? Who could possibly guess, given what we’ve already been through?

I suppose we can’t escape politics, even in this Christmas season, as the articles and letters relating to the Kemptville prison story in this issue can attest. The provincial government has really messed up with the way the whole thing has been handled, and I don’t think we’ll be hearing the end of

the story for many months to come. But, for now, let’s take some time to breathe, to relax and enjoy a well-earned holiday. There is not one of us who hasn’t deserved it, given the year we’ve had.

“And what have we done?” A good question. We have been through tumultuous times. Fake news. Mad times in the Excited States.

New stores in Colonnade.

Businesses opening and closing, and hopefully, reopening. Buildings built and demolished. All the normal life of a small community going about its daily life. We have fought over issues, grieved over losses, rejoiced over successes, and celebrated festivals and accomplishments. It has ever been thus, and will, no doubt, continue to be so in the year ahead.

I hope and pray that we can continue to do so as a community, caring and compassionate usually, but angry and divided on other things. Because that is what life is, the little, day-by-day triumphs and failures. We sometimes take ourselves too seriously, and take others not seriously enough. Or vice versa, even! But, as year

after year, Christmas after Christmas, goes by, maybe we can get some perspective on all of that. One day, we will have forgotten much of what we now find so important. One day, we, too, may be forgotten. So let’s not get too worked up over things and try and relax, at least for a few days over Christmas.

You may not believe it, but God loves you, and time passes.

So, on behalf of all of us at the Times, may I wish you all the best and leave you for 2020 with John and Yoko’s words: “And so this is Christmas, I hope you have fun. The near and the dear one, the old and the young.

A very Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Let's hope it's a good one, without any fear”. [lyrics © Peermusic Publishing]

mental degradation.

In reaction to the Ford government ignoring expert opinion, the Greenbelt Council resigned. Steve Clark’s comments regarding this shows how little he cares about the opinions of others.

He has been showing his true colours of late, and appears not to mind at all the job of being Doug Ford’s hatchet man, already having over 30 Ministers Zoning Orders under his belt.

The policies of the Ford government have nothing to do with democracy, and everything to do with ideology.

They are systematically destroying our laws governing social and environmental protection, paving over farmland

and wetlands, in order to cut the “red tape” of the laws that were in place to protect ourselves and our natural world, the latter of which we are more dependent on than this government wants, or cares to, believe. Then again, their focus is on money, and not the protection of the society that they are supposed to serve.

Their mantra is business, small government, and lower taxes. Everything is done for the former, which leads to smaller government as they abolish the laws that protect us all and help business. And as for lower taxes, well, I have yet to see that. One of Ford’s favourite things, when he talks about taxes, is Hydro bills. Have you noticed how

much of your bill is subsidized by this government?

Have you ever wondered just where that money is coming from?

As for business being top of the Conservative agenda, the Kemptville jail debacle is a case in point. Ford has already admitted that this project is more about financial recovery than it is about the actual need for another jail.

As the recent webinar on this subject has showed, the need for a jail at all could be negated by fixing the remand system, where currently 66% of all inmates are those on remand, that is, charged, but not convicted. This government is not interested in fixing the system, nor listening to other points of view that show that there is a better way to handle this problem without perpetrating more of the inhumane treatment that currently goes on in our prison system, and I’m not just talking about the prisoners, but the prison staff as well.

None of these, and the many other abuses of power, would have happened if we had a proportional representation election system, often promised, but that promise never fulfilled. If a party gets less than 50% of the electoral vote, as is often the case, then they would need to get support from others in order to pass legislation. Instead, we cling to our outdated first past the post system, and then get a government with only 40% of the vote getting 100% of the power. The abuses that this system has heaped upon the people of Ontario are legion, but it works well for the two main parties in our electoral system, which is why we still have it. If ever we get a referendum on proportional representation, just remember what dinosaur politics in government looks like, and consider using your vote elsewhere.

Colin Creasey Kemptville

NG Times nominated The North Grenville Times has been nominated in the Best Community News Web Site category in the Canadian Online Publishing Awards [COPAs] for 2020.

The COPAs are open to any company that publishes in Canada and we are one of just five community newspapers to be nominated.

All credit for the nomination goes to our on-line guru, Christine Boyer, who keeps our site, Facebook page and all web-related stuff up to date, in order, and looking great. So, congratulations to Christine and the Times on a well-earned acknowledgment.

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, The Ford government has betrayed the citizens of Ontario by passing Schedule 6, which rewards the worst developers and land speculators by incapacitating the system that protects source water and guards Ontarians against flooding, landslides, and other environmental disasters. The government of Ontario ignored a deafening chorus of experts, warning that we need to retain the mandate of the province’s 36 Conservation Authorities. The changes will let developers dump, build, and excavate largely unchecked in high-risk areas, risking impaired water quality, property damage, and environ-

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 December 23, 2020

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

OFFICE 613-215-0735 Production Manager production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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Dear fellow Kemptvillians: It was very good of you, if you were this person, to look up my name and find my street address, walk out into the cold, and deliver my credit card to my side door after I had dropped it somewhere on a walk. Thank you so much!

And Merry Christmas!

Stephen Eric Dear anonymous woman Thank you for taking the time to drop off a cheque addressed to me that had been mistakenly placed in your mailbox.

From the lady on George Street, Merry Christmas and God bless.

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Accounting cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

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UPDATE UPDATE

Notice of Online Public Information Centre Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study for Northwest Quadrant Water Distribution System Expansion

For updates related to COVID-19 visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus

LA Developments is initiating a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) to increase the groundwater supply capacity of the existing Kemptville Water Supply System to accommodate the anticipated development by the build-out year of 2034.

NORTH GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public between the hours of 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Residents and businesses can continue to access the Municipal service by phone, email and online.

This study is being conducted in accordance with the requirements for Schedule ‘B’ projects under the Municipal Class EA document as set out by the Municipal Engineers Association (October 2000, amended in 2007, 2011 and 2015).

HOLIDAY CLOSURE

Please note the Municipal Offices will be closed for the holidays on Friday, December 25, 2020 and re-open Monday, January 4, 2021. Please be safe over the holiday season!

Public consultation is critical to the success of the study.

Given the current COVID-19 Pandemic restrictions, an online Public Information Centre (PIC) has been scheduled to commence on Monday, January 28, 2021 to provide information about the project, activities completed to-date, and obtain your feedback / comments. The online PIC will be accessible for a period of two weeks.

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2021

PIC presentation boards will be available for review, on the Municipality’s website at www.northgrenville.ca.

You are encouraged to review the PIC material and provide your feedback/ comments, and these will be considered in finalizing the preferred servicing strategy.

Please contact one of the individuals listed below if you have any questions or comments or would like to be included on the Project Contact List.

Contact List.

Anne Anderson Administrator, LA Group Kemptville, ON 613-271-9644 anne@lagroup.ca

Hugues Bisson Project Manager CIMA+ 613-860-2462 ext. 6660 hugues.bisson@cima.ca

Thomas Rapley, PMP Class EA Study Lead CIMA+ 905-695-1005 ext.5789 thomas.rapley@cima.ca

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

This notice was first issued on December 23, 2021.

ways to keep our roads and highways safe."

RIDE grant funding will be used to cover the overtime of sworn officers and paid duty RIDE activities over 2020-21 and 2021-22. All municipal and First Nations police services and OPP municipal contract locations are eligible for funding under the RIDE grant program.

"Ontario has among the safest roads in North America and we are committed to making them even safer," said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. "There is no reason anyone should be driving a vehicle after they have been drinking. There are plenty of alternative ways for people to avoid drinking and driving, including the use of our excellent public transit systems."

As Ontarians prepare to celebrate the holiday season,

This meeting will be live streamed at https://www.northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes.

To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please provide your comments no later than 2 hours prior to the start of the meeting to clerk@northgrenville.on.ca *NOTE: To facilitate further discussions concerning the proposed building fee schedule changes, this matter has been rescheduled. Originally scheduled to be heard December 9, 2020, it has been rescheduled to January 12, 2021.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

New funding for RIDE program The Ontario government is investing $4.8 million through the Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) grant program to help 171 police services across the province keep impaired drivers off streets and highways. Police services will receive funding to carry out important yearround road safety initiatives such as education campaigns and roadside spot checks.

"Driving impaired, whether from drugs or alcohol is not only illegal, it can be fatal. Making alternate plans to get home safely only takes a minute, and it can save your life and the lives of others," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. "With the holiday season upon us, education campaigns and roadside spot checks are vital tools in the police arsenal to inform people about the dangers of driving impaired and the

While members of the public are invited to attend the meeting, seating has been arranged to facilitate physical distancing and accordingly is limited. Pre-registration at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca is required. Persons arriving without pre-registering will be accommodated where there is sufficient seating capacity to permit attendance while complying with safety protocols. All attendees will be required to self-screen and masks must be worn when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

If you require accommodation, please advise the Clerk when pre-registering so that we may best assist you.

Agriculture and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 4:15 pm

they are reminded to make plans to get home safely. They can arrange for a designated driver, order a taxi or rideshare, or take public transit. They should also take immediate action if they see someone who may be impaired by arranging a ride for them or even calling 911 if someone is a risk to themselves and others.

According to provincial data, more than 1,700 people have died and over 25,000 people have been injured in collisions involving an impaired driver in the last decade in Ontario. Drivers found to be driving while impaired will face penalties immediately.

They will also face additional consequences if convicted in court. Impaired driving penalties can vary depending on the driver’s age, licence type, the amount of alcohol or drugs in their system, and how many times they have offended.

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Heritage Advisory Committee – Thursday, January 7, 2021 at 4:30 pm Community and Economic Development Advisory Committee – Monday, January 11, 2021 at 1:00 pm Health, Wellness and Fitness Advisory Committee – Monday, January 11, 2021 at 4:00 pm NEW WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM BEGINS FEBRUARY 2021 Green Bins and the new Waste Management Guide will be delivered to each household in January 2021.

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Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

THIS CHRISTMAS

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285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: 613-258-9569 x204 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

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Reed, Shirley Teresa (née Domenico)

Shirley passed away peacefully at the Bayfield Manor, Kemptville on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at the age of 86 years. Beloved wife of Donald Reed.

Loving mother of Wayne Reed (Belinda), Dawn Bouchard (Vince), Todd Reed (Patricia) and Debbie Lee (Stephen).

Cherished Grandma of Jenna (Jordan), Christopher, Lindsay, Andrew, Harrison and Amanda. Great-Grandmother of Austin. Predeceased by her parents, Francis and Josephine Domenico; and her sisters, Frances, Patricia, Mary and her brother, Samuel. Shirley will be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews. A special thank you to the staff of the Bayfield Manor and her physician Dr. Loan Luong for their care and compassion. A Graveside Service will be held at South Gower Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada or Girl Guides of Canada would be appreciated.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435

Kemptville District Hospital Foundation 2020 Community Tree of Lights Acton, Hattie – In memory of Gerry & Helen Acton Angus, Lis & Ian – In memory of Margaret Angus Birtch, Grant & Ryan – In memory of Nellie Birtch Boucher Family – In memory of Gussie Abbott and Percy & Rhonda Boucher Brown, Peter & Vicki – In memory of Fred & Thelma Brown, Ernie & Winnie Stokes and Phyllis Stott Carson, Beverly – In memory of Colin Carson Casselman, Janice, Pam & Lisa – In memory of Sergey & Ruby Schurigin and Cynthia Winsor Desroches, Linda & Victor - In memory of Melanie Desroches, Julia Finnie, Alpha Desroches and Rheal Bisson The Dillon Family – In memory of Tyler Dillon, Randolph & Betty Dillon and Charlie & June Spiruda The Grahame Family – In memory of Ken & Rose Grahame

An open letter to MPP Steve Clark

I want to start by saying “Greetings from beautiful Kemptville, the small town with a big heart in North Grenville”. We decided to move here some five years ago and have had no regrets. This community, with its sense of community spirit and support for fellow residents, is an amazing place to live! We are a growing community, yes, but we are still a small town, and our infrastructure is adequate for what we are at present. Nonetheless, we cope with the growing pains of our town getting bigger.

My point is that we are a small town of approx. 4,000 people. We do not have a public transportation system, no hotels (two small motels), our hospital is adequate for now, and our downtown core can easily get congested when traffic increases, and lacks parking areas. I could go on, suffice it to say there is not room enough to add a 235 bed - to be built to maximum security standards - jail/prison.

With its daily strains, it alone will add to the infrastructure for water and sewer and voluminous traffic it will bring.

I listened in on the Zoom presentation given by the Solicitor General’s office on November 26. I was dismayed by their arrogant attitude that this deal is a “fait accomplit” and we have to accept it. Now they want to consult with the residents - not much of a democratic process here. It was apparent there was a lack of preparedness on their part for some of the questions that were brought forward. For the most part, they gave carefully crafted sugar-coated answers and portrayed their new complex to be something that December 23, 2020

would fit in with the chosen landscape, and be similar in appearance to that of a hospital. They emphasized they did not want to impact negatively on the town’s resources, and that they would fund the necessary upgrades to the infrastructure, roadways, and hospital resources that would be impacted by, and needed for, their facility. All well and good; however, governments lately have developed the habit of saying one thing then finding some hidden way to download costs to municipalities.

When the subject came to jobs and employment, it fell far short of any indication of permanency to any of it. Reality is that some large contractor from outside would get the contract to come in and build and then be gone. Left would be some seasonal work, like snow clearing, grass cutting, and maybe maintenance as well - not much full time employment there! As well, the unit’s employees would be transferred in from other units in the province, but there is no requirement for them to actually live here. While there was a reference made, we were we not told what the criteria were for the unit to be located in Kemptville, other than the Province already owned the land in question.

There was some suggestion that the SolGen’s office had looked at hundreds of other places in their workup, but no specifics given.

The big question remains.

Why does this government want to put half a billion dollars into building a new jail in the middle of a worldwide pandemic, when the health services are screaming for

Groskopf, John & Elaine – In memory of Nona Price, Charlie Price,

financial assistance, and yet there seems to be no money for them?

Who is the jail for? Currently, we have been told that approx ⅔ of inmates in correctional facilities in Ontario are on some sort of remand and awaiting bail or trial.

Again, apparently, a fairly large portion of these have been released during Covid times because of the restrictions imposed on society to help prevent the spread of the virus. I applaud the efforts to reform our broken justice system, it is long overdue. However, I believe that building such a facility, as proposed for Kemptville, is not the way to go. Better to focus on building re-hab centres, where proper treatment can be offered, rather than building more lock-up facilities.

I can only surmise that our current government wants to plant this complex in a small, politically safe, Conservative riding, where there would be little resistance and it could be touted to be a good benefit to the area. Not so Mr Clark, we are seeing a growing awareness that folks here about are starting to realize this is not the right place, nor the right time, let alone the right kind of facility. Representing your constituents is more than appeasing the political agenda of what seems to be a government leaning more and more to a totalitarian process (Bill 222, Schedule 6 is another example). Let us remember that Canada is a democracy. Time to start thinking of a change, particularly in this riding!

Rodger Parnell Kemptville

and Rosemary Dolan Gursby, Diane & Family – In memory of Jim Gursby KDH Auxiliary – In memory of Gerald Loughlin and in honour of Jean Knapp’s 100th year Kinnear, Bill & Jane – In memory of family members Legate, John & Beulah - In memory of Margaret Legate, Ruby McKibbon-Mohr and Emile Martin MacEachern, Dougald & Family – In memory of Helen MacEachern Maloney, Anita – In memory of Pat Maloney Martineau, Winston & Vivian – In memory of Delia Martineau, Leo Martineau, Willis Chambers, Muriel Cooper, Ralph Cooper and Mary Workman MacLennan, Angela – In memory of Rod MacLennan, Hermann Helms and David Simon Newans, Jean – In memory of Keith Newans Norenberg, Margret – In memory of Karl & Christa Norenberg Parnell, Bob & Cheryl – In memory of Wilhelmina & Ernie Heaphy and Bill & Audrey Parnell Render, Susan & David – In memory of Joyce & Budd Baltzer, John Baltzer, and Arthur Render Turcotte Family– In memory of Sylvia Turcotte, Jeffrey Turcotte, Kyle Turcotte and TJ Turcotte Van Allen, Margaret – In memory of Glen Van Allen, Irvine & Alice Hough, Jean & Ken Ficko and Elizabeth & Bill Hutchins Whalley, Terry & Dwayne – In memory of Irene Whalley White, Nancy – In memory of Don White

Thank you for your support through 2020.

We wish you a safe and peaceful holiday.

Merry Christmas from our Board and Staff

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Council recognizes community volunteerism through Civic Awards

North Grenville Council presents KDCA representatives Wendy Embleton and Samantha Rivet-Stevenson with the Exemplary Work in the Community (Group) award

by Hilary Thomson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Council presented a few deserving North Grenville residents with awards for their volunteerism and dedication to the community at the last Council meeting of 2020.

The North Grenville Civic Awards has been a tradition in the Municipality since 2009. Since its inception, more than 40 individuals and seven groups have been recognized for their efforts.

With a very busy Clerk’s office, the Municipality was not able to send out a call for nominations last year, therefore this year’s awards took into consideration the work of both individuals and groups in the community for 2019 and 2020. “I’m so pleased, obviously, that we can do this right at the end of 2020 because it’s been and incredibly challenging year and community organizations of all kinds have risen to the challenge,” Mayor Nancy Peckford said. “We have busy lives and there are increasing restrictions which have really called for creativity and ingenuity when it comes to bringing our

December 23, 2020

community together.”

Three out of the five civic awards were presented at the Council meeting last week. Barbara Lacelle was presented with the Arts and Culture Award for her dedication to the Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company which enables young people (ages 12-18) to take to the stage and develop musical and performing arts interests. “Barbara has supported the performing arts and been a strong influence in the lives of many youth over the past 20 years, helping them find their voice in music and theatre,” Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan said. “As a result of her contributions, youth theatre productions have been enriched beyond measure and beyond North Grenville.” Not only has Barbara put on countless quality youth musical theatre productions over the years, but she is also an active member of the Municipality’s Arts and Culture Committee.

“Barb’s enthusiasm and zest for the performing arts makes the culture in North Grenville evident time and time again, as demonstrated through her knowledge and input to

Council as a valued member of the Arts and Culture Committee,” Councillor Barclay said. “Barb has created an amazing and inspiring production company and we thank you for your many years of dedication in bringing joy to the community through your love of the arts.”

This year, North Grenville’s Exemplary Work in the Community (age 26-55) Award went to Jess Wilson. Jess was the driving force behind this year’s “Barbells for Boobs” fundraiser which raised over $5,000 for breast cancer research. Jess brought in many local businesses to support the fundraiser which helped bring the community together in this successful online event.

“This was all done on her own initiative with great effort to coordinate the event to ensure it was conducted under public health guidelines during the pandemic,” Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman said. “Breast cancer affects so many of us in the community,” Mayor Peckford added. “Were incredible grateful for your initiative.”

The Kemptville District Community Association (KDCA) was honoured this year as a group that has done amazing work in the community, particularly during the pandemic.

Members Samantha Rivet-Stevenson and Wendy Embleton where at the meeting to accept the Exemplary Work in the Community (Group) Award on behalf of the KDCA. The relatively new community association is focused on fostering collaboration

and cohesion in the community and its very active and enthusiastic members look for opportunities to work with other groups to strengthen what already exists in the community and to fill gaps. The KDCA clearly demonstrated their value and dedication by pivoting quickly to put together a COVID-friendly Canada Day event for the entire community. “Thank you Wendy, Samantha and the rest of the team,” Councillor Kristin Strackerjan said. “We’re excited to see what’s next.”

Two awards were not officially presented at the meeting, as their recipients couldn’t be there. Nick Charman is this year’s recipient of the Recreation, Sport and Leisure Award for his volunteerism and leadership in fitness in North Grenville through community involvement, sport and fundraising efforts. He has spent countless hours volunteering as a coach with Kemptville Warriors basketball, and as an overall health, wellness and fitness leader and advocate in the community.

Nick is employed full time with the Canadian Armed Forces and is currently deployed overseas, so he could not be at the ceremony to receive his award last week. “We wish him well there and we’ll defer this award until her gets back here safely,” Deputy Mayor McManaman said.

Brian Wilson is this year’s recipient of the Exemplary Work in the Community (56 and older) Award. While he was unable to be at the ceremony, Mayor Peckford highlighted the fact that 7

North Grenville Council presents Jess Wilson with the Exemplary Work in the Community (age 26-55) award

North Grenville Council presents Barbara Lacelle with the Arts and Culture award Brian has been an integral part of youth activities in North Grenville for over three decades. Brian is an advocate for children and youth in recreation through bowling, lacrosse, hockey and Cub Scouts and has been involved in many fundraising efforts.

People may also recognize his voice as the announcer for the Kemptville 73s, and he has also doubled as Santa Clause over the years, bringing joy and laughter to young and old alike. “Brian has a long list of volunteerism and is very deserving of the support; he was quite sad that he couldn’t join us this evening,” Mayor Peckford said. “So we’ve assured him and his family that in the new year we will welcome him with open arms and ensure that he gets the recognition that he deserves.”

Mayor Peckford congratulated the winners and all those who were nominated for this year’s

awards, adding that choosing the recipients was a challenge because of all the dedicated and passionate volunteers there are in the North Grenville community. “I think we can all agree that we are collectively amazed by the wonderful spirit of volunteerism in our community as well as their innovation and ingenuity,” she said.

“Thank you to everyone who has come forward to face the challenges COVID or no COVID, but obviously for this year especially, we appreciate all the volunteers in North Grenville and we thank everyone who not only just received an award this evening but who have been a force behind our incredible organizations and incredible efforts.”

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Gardening through the Seasons & Garden Musings

A Year of Challenge

by Peter S. Milsom, President, Kemptville Navy League In our past nine articles, we strived to introduce the Navy League of Canada Cadet Programs in Kemptville to our Community. Cadet parents and relatives are well aware of their value, and of the benefits, they contribute to the cadets in individual development and growth, both personally and as citizens. In our articles, the cadets have told you in their own words just how rewarding an experience the Program has been for them.

For cadets and all of us alike, this COVID year has been hard on everyone, and for those of us with families grown and living away, we miss our close, hug-rich family time, especially those of us blessed with amazing and delightful Grandchildren.

FaceTime helps, but doesn’t really cut it! After all, it is a hug-deficient environment!

Sitting down in this Season to write Christmas cards brings forcibly home how this strange and challenging Pandemic year has caused us to become sadly out of touch with family and close friends.

The year has also dislocated our accustomed comfort zones. It is requiring us to work at home, or certainly to work very differently, or school our children at home, take virtual lectures, and live with all circumstances of our daily lives ruled by unrelenting directives about masks, gloves, social distancing protocols, answering surveys, or giving names and phone numbers wherever we go.

And then we have the misfortune of being confronted with alarming daily reports

in the media about spiralling levels of infection, and where the heck is the promised antidote anyway? The constant barrage of negative vibes is enough to drive one into HUMBUG mode, just before our Season of Joy! But, thinking about it, life here in North Grenville has been very good to most of us – the family is all well, are succeeding wonderfully with their lives in spite of CoVID, and we have, so far, mostly remained untouched by the virus. Our Cadets in our Kemptville corps – RCSCC DEFIANT for girls and boys aged 12–18, and NLCC ASSINIBOINE for the boys and girls aged 9-12, - have shown themselves to be remarkably resilient, flexible, and adaptive. Though not able to meet safely in person, of the 60 Branches in Ontario, our cadets are way up there in the percentage of active participation by cadets in virtual training. Thanks to the innovative and creative programs created by their excellent officers, they are continuing to make real progress with their training and development goals. In all, a hugely positive performance certain to blow away the HUMBUG impulses!

And we live in an amazing town - a town full of the nicest people! We meet them every day! Great stores, restaurants, medical and dental services, a superb hospital, community-sensitive and top-line food stores, excellent fire and police services, many new stores and services, and more coming. The incomparable Ferguson Forest complex, with miles of sculpted forest trails, bike paths, a superb dog park, veteran’s

memorial drive, and wideopen spaces away down to the river, all in range by foot from many of our homes, has been a wonderful gift in a time when getting out to exercise and staying out of crowds has been both physically and mentally beneficial.

As the Navy League is a truly effective educational youth charity, offering services to children without cost to parents, and based 100% on contributions and the effort of dedicated volunteers, perhaps our readers will spare our cadets and their best interests some careful thought during the Christmas holiday period.

In January, many Executive positions will be turning over – we are looking for a new Treasurer (on-line QuickBooks), a new Secretary, a Vice-President Navy League Cadets, a new Fundraising Team Chair, and Team Members, and several other portfolio Directors. Nothing arduous, a 1.5 hour meeting one Saturday morning each month, and a wonderful opportunity for an ex-military, a retired person, or a person who likes working in support of children, to give back to the community, doing something truly meaningful. I would be happy to talk to those with talents and/or experience who are interested in giving back or paying ahead. It’s all about these wonderful cadets!

In the meantime, very best wishes to all from our Navy League family for a safe and healthy, HUMBUG-free Christmas with “in-bubble” family members, and for a rapid emergence into a pandemic-free and rewardingly successful 2021!

by Claudia Sutton Over the last number of years, it has caught me by surprise how fast the seasons change, and here we are almost at Christmas! With the gardens now put to sleep, and the garden ornaments stored away, the sensitive and tender perennials are brought inside, including Eucalyptus, Lemon Verbena (our favourite for a relaxing tea or ingredient for Christmas sugar cookies), Stevia, Wasabi, and Scented Geraniums, to name a few, as well as trusty garlic. It is the time in our home to utilize all of these, whether by a warming soup, tea, or bath salts with dried lavender flowers.

We are all thinking immunity right now, and how we can protect ourselves and loved ones from a virus or cold that our children and/or grandchildren bring home to us from school or play. Quite a number of herbs can assist us with this conundrum.

What comes to mind is Rosemary, the wonderful fragrant Mediterranean herb, known as Rosemary Officinalis, which has three active components that can give the immune system a boost; anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and anti-carcinogens.

Rosemary can help one avoid becoming ill at this time of year, when colds and flu run rampant. You can add dried or fresh Rosemary to tea with honey, which we especially enjoy, particularly if one of us feels rundown. Rosemary may also help reduce coughs and the accumulation of phlegm in the respiratory

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system. One may also be inclined to diffuse rosemary essential oil, which lends a lovely fragrance at Christmas.

Of course, an added bonus is that Rosemary is helpful for memory; hence named 'Rosemary for Remembrance’.

In addition to supplements of Vitamin C and Rosemary, any one of these herbs can also boost one's immunity; Elderberries, Elderflower, Astragalus, Ginger, Cardamon, Cloves, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Spruce, and Garlic. We have been known to use Oil of Oregano at the first tickle in our throats. It is not for the faint of heart with its taste, but it definitely keeps germs at bay and works quickly.

Warming Ginger Tea: This tea will help your body retain warmth and improve

your mood! You will need: 2 tsp freshly ground ginger, 4 Cardamon pods, One stick of freshly ground cinnamon, 3 cloves.

Directions: Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Add honey or milk, according to taste. Enjoy!

There are many natural ways one can use the herbs that our ancestors used to keep our immune system strong and, at the same time, keep us cosy and warm during the long winter months to come!

Wishing you a Healthy, Happy Holiday season!

Grenville County OPP Inspector charged

by David Shanahan Inspector June Dobson, Detachment Commander of the Grenville County OPP has been charged with fraud as a result of investigations into the theft of Wayne Gretzky memorabilia worth more than $500,00. Inspector Dobson is not linked directly to that theft.

Rather, she is charged with “misrepresenting the authenticity and origin” of a hockey stick, which she is alleged to have claimed had been used by Gretzky in a game. The stick was his, but not used as she claimed. Her claim inflated the value of the stick, and so is considered fraud.

While the hockey stick bore an authentic Wayne Gretzky autograph, she tried to pass it off as a stick Gretzky owned when he was young, according to Brantford Police Staff Sgt. Keith Tollar, who noted that: “It’s alleged that, because of her title and her office, (it) added some credibility to the item”.

The stick was sold to a collector for $6,000.

The possible fraud was discovered by the Brantford police into the theft of the memorabilia from the home of Gretzky’s father, Walter, a family friend of Dobson. After a three-month investigation, police arrested a man in Oakville and charged him with theft over $5,000. Memorabilia of all kinds can be big business, as was show just last week, when a mint condition Gretzky rookie card recently sold for just under $1.3 million U.S. However, it should be repeated that the arrest and charging of June Dobson was not directly connected with the theft from the Grezky house. She was on duty at the time the alleged incident took place for which she has been charged, and is currently on what the OPP are calling “unrelated leave”.

Because of privacy considerations, the OPP spokesperson, Brian Dickson would not comment on the reason for her leave.

A separate investigation to that of the Brantford police is being undertaken by the OPP into Inspector Dobson’s actions, as is usual in such circumstances, once the criminal investigation is concluded. The OPP Professional Standards Unit opens a parallel, non-criminal investigation into any officer charged with an offense. In a statement, the OPP noted that: “OPP officers are held to a higher standard of behaviour than other citizens. Officers found to have broken the law/behavioural standards will be subject to additional disciplinary proceedings, including possible demotion and dismissal, depending on the circumstances.” www.ngtimes.ca

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A Christmas or Easter Oratorio?

by David Shanahan Performances of Handel’s great Oratorio, “Messiah”, has become a traditional Christmas favourite in recent decades, but that is not how it was first celebrated.

In fact, the very first public performance of the work took place in Dublin just after Easter in 1742. George Frideric Handel had been living in England for some time, but his popularity had waned

somewhat by 1841, so he accepted an invitation from the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to settle in Dublin and present a series of concerts there.

So it was that one of his most famous compositions, completed around the time he left for Dublin, had its premiere performance in the Great Musick Hall in Fishamble Street on April 13, 1842, attended by 700 people of the best social class. The expected attendance was so large that a public notice was

of admission to the Hall was half a guinea, or about $117 in today’s prices, quite a large amount and the reason only the upper classes could afford to attend. But £400 was raised for the charities, the equivalent to around $9,500 today, a very welcome windfall for prisoners and hospitals in Dublin in 1742, and securing the release of 142 indebted prisoners.

The premiere of “Messiah” involved the two cathedral choirs, a total of 16 men and 16 boy choristers; several of the men were allocated solo parts. Two women sang the female solo parts: Christina Maria Avoglio, and Susannah Cibber, an established stage actress. The orchestra comprised strings, two trumpets, and timpani.

Handel had his own organ shipped to Ireland for the performances; a harpsichord was probably also used. The orchestra was led by Matthew Dubourg, who had come to Ireland as the Lord Lieutenant’s band master.

A second performance of “Messiah” was held on June 3, 1742, this time the proceeds went directly to

issued before hand requesting women not to wear the fashionable hoops in their dresses, and that men would forbear wearing swords.

It may seem strange that the great sacred Oratorio was first performed in a Music Hall, of all places, and there was a certain unease felt by the Anglican clergy in Dublin, especially since it was the two choirs from Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral that were used in the performance. The Dean of St. Patrick’s at the time was Jonathan Swift, author of “Gulliver’s Travels” and “A Modest Proposal”. In spite of his reservations about using his choir, which he personally picked and supervised, in a public music hall, Swift was in no doubt about Handel himself. When the two men met, although Swift was in his last confused years, he remarked: “O! A German and a genius. A prodigy! Admit him.”

The first performance of “Messiah” was a fundraiser for three Dublin charities: prisoners' debt relief, the Mercer's Hospital, and the Charitable Infirmary. Cost

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County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario Handel. He stayed in Ireland for another two months before returning to London in August. It was not until the following year that “Messiah” was performed there, and, surprisingly, it was not a success. It was not until 1750 that it was performed to an appreciative audience in England. The tradition of standing during the Hallelujah Chorus was said to have begun when King George stood at a performance, but there is no evidence that he ever attended a performance and the first reference to standing at that point comes from 1756.

That first “Messiah”, some 277 years ago this week,

is celebrated in Dublin to this day. The Musick Hall in Fishamble Street is long gone, though a plaque on the site records the historic concert of April, 1742.

Illustration: The Great Music Hall in Fishamble Street, Dublin. Reproduced from The Musical Times, December 1903.

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Christmas tells us we matter

by David Shanahan Christmas is one time in the year when something “religious” is acceptable to most, though not to all. Surely, when the entire marking of time is based on the birth of one man, that’s news?

There has been a tension about Christmas over the past couple of decades. The move away from “Merry Christmas” to “Happy Holidays”, the refusal of certain businesses to allow their employees to even use the word “Christmas”, the outlawing of manger scenes in some public areas, all these have brought a nasty tone into what used to be a happy and joyful time of year. And what lies behind this change? It is the demand by certain groups that anything “religious” should be banned, in case it causes offense, or something. The thing is, without that “religious” aspect to it, Christmas doesn’t make sense.

Rather than compromise its meaning, should

non-Christians not simply give up “celebrating” it?

(Do you notice how political correctness, secularism, etc. demands the use of quotation marks all the time?). I actually think that Christmas, specifically because of what it means, should be held on to as a vital reminder of who we are as human beings in this universe. Christmas, as we Christians believe, commemorates the birth of Jesus. This, however, is not the same as Buddhists celebrating the birth of Buddha, or Moslems celebrating the birth of Muhammad. This was, rather, God himself becoming a human being in order to restore us to our lost relationship with himself.

Now, whether you believe that or not, it is still something to cherish in this increasingly strange secular world. Christians believe God created everything in the universe, and that the human race is the high point of that creation on this planet. We are, we believe, made in the image of God. But we have fallen away from that, and that is why

the world is the way it is.

We have lost our way, our destiny, our real meaning.

The alternative view of life, based on an evolutionary set of beliefs, is that the universe and everything in it is the result of random chance, bringing together proteins and cells to accidentally bring about all the amazing variations of organic and inorganic life in the cosmos.

If that is true, then, logically, humans are no more important than chimpanzees, or rats, or microbes, or trees. We are all alike the result of chance, with no purpose, no ultimate value, no destiny beyond this short lifespan on a miserable world of hunger, war, and disease. There is no basis for morality, no explanation for traits such as love, honour, self-sacrifice, or generosity because, again logically, there is nothing to give value to these things in a meaningless world. As we have seen over the past decades, it is harder and harder to define terms like “good”, “evil”, “right and wrong”, and that is why we need to use those quotation

marks all the time. That is why we are destroying the planet, manipulating and contaminating our own food supply, accepting as normal the fact that governments, politicians, and others in authority lie and deceive. It is why we either have lower standards, or increasingly no logical reason for having standards at all.

This is why Christmas is important, even to those who don’t altogether accept Jesus and Christianity and all that kind of thing.

It is because Christmas is about more than a babe in a manger, shepherds, gifts, angels and Wise Men. It is about God becoming man and living here as a human being in order to remind us that we are made in the image of God, and are therefore of value, have meaning and purpose,

and, ultimately, matter. The entire Christmas thing may just be a myth to some, but at the very least it is a story, a celebration that reminds us that there is more to us than what some would have us believe. That love, joy, generosity, integrity, ethics, all of these are real and must be within us and valued by all human society for a reason. And that is, that behind all of cynicism, arrogance, selfishness

and greed, there is also a glimpse of the eternal, the ultimate, against which we measure our lives, our beliefs, our existence. These things are not accidental byproducts of meaningless chance. They are gifts that remind us of who were are, and who we were made to be. And Christmas is all about gifts. There is, as they say, a reason for the season. And wise men still

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Local mask maker makes ďŹ nal donation of the year to local food banks

Season's Greetings www.natureswayselect.ca 2676 County Rd. 43, Kemptville 613.258.7772

A Brave Soul

photo by Marguerite Boyer Debbie Amirault presents Salvation Army food bank manager Esteban Castillo with a cheque for $800 to support the food bank.

Despite the freezing temperatures last week Donna Adams kept manning her bucket, every aftertoon at the LCBO. She conceded to take her mask o for me. Just look at that smile! ...Kudo's to you!

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Joyeux Noël et bonne année!

1910 Christmas hints

En cette période des fêtes, la Table politique, l’administration et le personnel du CECCE vous souhaitent un joyeux Noël, ainsi que leurs meilleurs vœux de bonheur, de santé et de prospérité pour la nouvelle année.

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Merry Christmas

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South Branch students make handmade Christmas cards for Bayfield residents

South Branch kindergarten students making cards for Bayfield residents

by Hilary Thomson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Students at South Branch Elementary School in Kemptville come together this holiday season to create handmade Christmas cards for all the residents of

Bayfield Manor.

The initiative was spearheaded by Makayla Barrette, one of the early childhood educators (ECE) at the school, whose grandmother lives at Bayfield. One of her favourite holiday traditions in past years has been visiting her grandmother with

new ones, and Makayla says that adding the resident’s names on the cards created a meaningful connection for their students. They also talked about how lucky they were to be with their families this Christmas, and how there will be many residents at Bayfield who may not have the same opportunity.

“Our students loved this activity,” Makayla says, adding that one of her kindergarten students said: “It made me feel good, because I like making things for people.”

Makayla will be getting a COVID-19 test so that she can visit her grandmother before Christmas and hand deliver the cards to the Bayfield residents. “It is always a pleasure for our residents to receive Christmas wishes, especially from children,” says Bayfield’s Executive Director, Gerry Miller. “This year, these gifts are treasured all the more, given the COVID restrictions. Our heartfelt thanks to all the South Branch schoolkids and their teacher.”

her family for a potluck, and Christmas carols in their dining room. “Singing with my grandma and all the residents at Bayfield brought everyone so much joy,” she remembers.

“Looking around the room, you couldn’t miss all the love and happiness.”

Makayla is devastated that this tradition can’t happen this year due to COVID-19, not only for her own family, but for all the residents who look forward to it. Knowing she couldn’t let the year pass by without doing something special for the seniors at Bayfield, she thought it would be a nice gesture to have each of them receive a handmade Christmas card.

After getting in touch with Bayfield’s Director of Care, Jane Johnston, she was able to get first names for all the residents. With the help of her colleagues at South Branch, she divided up the 113 names between the kindergarten, grade one, and grade two classes at the school. They recycled old Christmas cards to make

It is a magical time of year!

Mer�� Christ�as and stay safe

Makayla Barrette with her grandmother, Shirley Bolton, at a past Christmas celebration

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The Food Corner

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by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Finger foods really help make the season bright. Grandma Beth and Liane go out of their way to make toothsome sweets this time of year. The recipes below are two of their favourites.

I’m pretty sure that any number of you have tried them in the past. For those who haven’t they are heavenly…

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Chocolate Cherry Jewel Bars

Ingredients: 1 ¼ flour ⅔ cup firmly packed brown sugar (divided in thirds) ¾ cup margarine 1 egg 1 ½ cup of mixed nuts 1 ½ cup halved candied cherries 1 cup chocolate chips Preparation: Combine flour, 1/3 cup of the sugar. Cut in margarine till crumbly. Press evenly into bottom of 15x10 cookie pan. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Beat egg slightly. Stir in ⅓ cup of the sugar and a little salt. Add nuts, cherries and Chipits. Toss to coat. Spoon fruit over baked layer. Press firmly to adhere. Bake another 20 minutes. Cool and cut into 2 inch bars.

Peanut Butter Noodles Ingredients: 1 small package of butterscotch chips ½ cup of chunky peanut butter ½ package of Chow Mein noodles 2 cups of miniature marshmallows If not using chunky peanut butter, add peanuts to taste Preparation: Melt butterscotch chips and peanut butter in double boiler.

Remove from heat and add Chow Mein noodles and mini marshmallows.

You are sure to enjoy making these, particularly if the kids can get involved. Best to all for the festive season and please continue keeping in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

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Have a Safe & Happy Holiday!

Robin Chinkiwsky Broker of Record 613.302.8852

Head office: 613.269.2222 email: admin@3point5.ca www.3point5.ca

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Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

275 County Rd. 44, Kemptville, Ont. K0G 1J0 Ph: 613-258-0110

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Merry Christmas

215 Prescott Street, Kemptville December 23, 2020

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Happy Holidays!

Salamanders Restaurant

Peace & Joy throughout the Holidays and into the New Year!

28 Clothier St E, Kemptville

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613.258.5745

2895 Highway #43 Kemptville www.cranberryhill.ca staff@cranberryhill.ca

Christmas fun from 1910 Little Mary’s father had denied her a Christmas gift which she had confidently expected. That night, when she said her prayers at her mother’s knee, she concluded with this petition: “And please don’t give my papa any more children. He don’t know how to treat those he has now!”.

“Did you see the watch you got for Christmas stop when it dropped on the floor?”, asked one man of his friend.

“Sure”, was the answer. “Did you think it would go through?

“You admit, then”, inquired the Magistrate severely, “that you stole the pig which this poor widow was saving for Christmas?

“I have to, boss”, said the prisoner.

“Very well”, returned the Magistrate, with decision, “there has been a lot of pig-stealing going on around here lately, and I am going to make an example of you, or none of us will be safe”.

“I saw your mother going to one of the neighbours just as I crossed the street”, said the Christmas caller. “Do you know when she will be back?”

“Yes’m”, answered the truthful Johnny; “she said she’d be back just as soon as you left”.

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Shop and support local small business

Brian & Christine Dillon

613-878-2069 or 613-806-0944

www.timelytouchups.ca December 23, 2020

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A heartfelt thank you goes out to our clients, our local community and businesses for all the support we have received during this difficult year.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Cheers to better days ahead!!

639 Van Buren St.

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wishing you a

Happy Holiday

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Santa's reindeer resting before the big day Photo supplied by the North Grenville Photography Club

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A visit to Omega Park, in the Winter, is magical!’ Photo by Scott Elmore

Wishing Everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday

Season's Greetings from George Tackaberry and Family and the Staff of G. Tackaberry & Sons Construction Co. Ltd.

613-258-3612 Kemptville

Tel: 613.258.3479

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CANADIAN TIRE STORE 311 Ryan's Well Drive, Kemptville December 23, 2020

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Logs To Lumber

790 Patterson Corners Rd., Oxford Mills

613.850.4203 www.logs-to-lumber.ca

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Wishing You a Safe & Merry Christmas

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613-258-9492 www.solutionone.ca 3 Clothier St E, Kemptville, ON December 23, 2020

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SOUTH GOWER INDUSTRIAL PARK

#2 Industrial Rd., Hwy 43 - 3km east of Hwy 16

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Contact us for more information on all our free services: Contact us for more information • Equipment Lending on all free services: • our Grief & Bereavement Counselling • Day Hospice • In-Home Visiting Equipment Lending • Lending Library Grief & Bereavement Counselling • Day Caregiver HospiceSupport Contact Donovan Hospice at program In-HomeBeth Visiting Lending Library @bethdonovanhospice.ca or 613-258-9611 ext. 0.

Caregiver Support

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A holiday season reminder to support local

by Louis Roesch, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture This year has been a whirlwind of hurdles and challenges, oftentimes with rules and regulations changing by the hour. The holiday season is another reminder that the pandemic continues to change life as we know it.

In true farmer fashion, no obstacle can hinder your values of community, kindness and generosity.

There is no doubt that every single one of you has helped your neighbours in some way during these challenging times. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has been overwhelmed by the tremendous acts of kindness from Ontario’s farm sector that have flooded social media platforms, newspapers and news outlets this past year. For Food Freedom Day 2020, the Kent Federation of Agriculture, with the financial support of many local farm suppliers, were able to process and deliver 3000 pounds of ground pork to the Salvation Army and local food banks. Collectively, our sector has selflessly donated to food banks, hospitals, community members in need and has been a beacon of positivity in difficult times.

As we close this chapter on a fantastic year of giving, we have one more ask of Ontario’s farming community.

Our ask is that you continue to support your community by purchasing locally this holiday season. Supporting

Christmas wreaths are Christ symbols.

The Christmas wreath originated as a symbol of Christ. The holly represents the crown of thorns Jesus wore at his crucifixion, and the red berries symbolize the blood he shed. So when you see a wreath this season, you'll remember the reason for the season.

First recorded in 1038, old English provided the word Christmas from Cristes mæsse, which means “Christ Mass.”

The Bible indicates a plurality of wise men, but it is tradition that says there were three, probably as a result of three gifts being given – gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

The three traditional colors used for most Christmas decorations have religious significance. Red for the blood of Jesus Christ, green symbolizes His resurrection, and gold His status as the King of kings.

local can make a world of difference to your fellow entrepreneurs. Supporting local goes full circle by also supporting the agriculture sector.

Celebrate the strength and resilience of Ontario’s agrifood sector by filling your holiday plates with nutritious, local, affordable produce and meats. If possible, purchase directly from your local grower and producer or look for the Foodland Ontario logo when shopping at the grocery store. Source freshly baked goods from the local bakery, spirits from local wineries and meats from the local butcher.

When decorating for the holidays, consider purchasing your evergreen arrangements and poinsettias from your local greenhouse or florist.

Visit your local tree farmer if looking for a live Christmas tree to brighten up your home.

When getting in the giving spirit, look to locally-owned stores for unique and personal gifts for your loved ones.

Your region likely boasts many woodworkers and artisans available to make custom pieces. Give the gift of local food with a gift certificate to your favourite restaurant or farm store.

The provincial government has emphasized that supporting local will be instrumental for Ontario’s post-pandemic economic recovery. With the creation of the Ontario Made website, consumers can browse 750,000 products proudly made in our province. Products range from clothing,

food, beverage, accessories, home, garden, technology and more.

Last week Minister Sarkaria launched the “Support Local” Holiday Campaign to encourage Ontarians to support local businesses this holiday season. The campaign urges consumers to order takeout from a local restaurant, shop online, use curbside pickup, buy gift cards and shop locally as well as safely by wearing a mask.

The goal of the campaign is to help small businesses regain revenues lost due to COVID-19 and help main streets stay local.

Personally, I am overwhelmed by the support and encouragement our family farm has received from the local community throughout COVID-19. Our familyowned farm produces feed for our hog and layer operation, processes our pork and grades and sells our eggs to consumers at the farm gate.

We want to thank all Ontarians who made the conscious decision to support local.

Ontario’s farming families can’t thank you enough for your kindness, patience, support, and word of mouth that brought new patrons through our doors.

Every farmer is an entrepreneur. We know the risks and rewards of owning and operating our own businesses and are grateful for the customers who support us. This is a perfect season to pay it forward.

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A most special festive gift of one million dollars

Lois and Dale Keyes and their generous cheque.

by Jane Adams Lois and Dale Keyes don’t look at all like Santa and Mrs. Claus. But they’ve just delivered the most wonderful present to Winchester District Memorial Hospital – and the patients we care for.

On December 11, Lois and Dale visited the WDMH Foundation to present a cheque for one million dollars ($1,000,000) This incredible gift will be directed toward the purchase of a new CT Scanner for WDMH. In a letter to the WDMH

Foundation, Lois and Dale shared why they are making this incredible gift: “We are very thankful and feel very blessed to be able to do this for our community at this time in our lives. We have given this a great deal of thought and decided to make Winchester District Memorial Hospital our charity of choice.

This not only touches many in our close local community, but reaches out a long way.

We are so fortunate to have this great facility in our rural community. It is important

that everyone understands that special equipment is not supplied by our Provincial Government, but is done through fundraising by our very dedicated and capable people here at WDMH.” Both Lois and Dale have a strong connection to the community. Dale’s family has farmed in the Hulbert area since 1830. And when Lois stands in their backyard, she can still see her childhood home. Their rural roots are deep – and so is their support of health care close to home.

They are also longstanding supporters of the WDMH Foundation. Last year, they served as the Honorary Chairs for Boots & Bling. At the event, they talked about the importance of health care close to home: “We are all very fortunate to have the hospital nearby, with all of the great people who work there. And we need to support them.”

At the presentation, Dale recalled his stay at WDMH when he was just seven years old: “I broke my leg, and I stayed for a month and a half.

I still remember being well

cared for by the doctors and nurses – especially Mrs. Malloy. Those memories last.”

“This donation provides an amazing kick-off to our fundraising efforts for the new CT Scanner,” noted Foundation Managing Director, Kristen Casselman. “We are so grateful to Lois and Dale for their incredible support.”

“This milestone gift is incredible. I want to thank Lois and Dale on behalf of our current and future patients,” added Cholly Boland, CEO. “We can’t wait to welcome them back for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new CT Scanner!”

“By giving this donation, help may be available for someone in your family when the need is there,” summed up Lois and Dale. “It could be critical for one’s health.

We are very happy to be able to do this, and are doing it in the most humble and modest way. God bless.”

In 1955, Sears tried to put the phone number of one of their stores, where children could call Santa Clause and tell him what they wanted for Christmas, in the newspaper. However, the number printed was for the NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) hotline. Thus, “Santa Tracker” began. NORAD still provides flight updates on the internet, TV news, and a special iPhone app each Christmas.

Letters to Santa Clause from the millions of kids all over the world go to a Canadian Post Office if the postal code is HOH OHO (“Ho, Ho, Ho”).

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the STAFF at 43 AutoWorks

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Christmas 2020

by Laurie Hicks For the night before Christmas it was awfully dead, Nothing to do so we’d just gone to bed.

The stockings were hung, of course they were clean, Nobody wanted to risk Covid-19.

The children were nestled 2 meters apart, Hoping Santa would get a head start.

The adults were a little bit down in the dump, For once their woes weren’t caused by Trump.

Christmas is almost here, would you believe?

How we’ll celebrate I can’t conceive.

This year the yule will be far from the norm, Since corona virus took us by storm.

It’s impossible to feel festively merry, When the news is all so morbid and scary.

And my jolly bells can’t possibly jingle, If we’re not allowed to mix and mingle.

No carolling, that takes a crowd, And larger gatherings aren’t allowed.

No Stitch party to give the things that we made , There wasn’t even a Santa parade.

The symphony’s quiet there’s no Christmas shows, When they’ll resume, nobody knows.

The Nutcracker Suite won’t be danced, Contamination just can’t be chanced.

No hugs of greeting to those you know, No kissing ‘neath the mistletoe.

And there’s always the threat of quarantine, Please Lord, we need a good vaccine!

But somehow this Christmas must occur, I’m sure that everyone would concur, That Santa, your duties can’t be neglected, Unless you’ve somehow got infected.

But Santa I know that you’ll be wise, And before you touch, you’ll hand sanitize.

Don’t come in if you have a sniffle or wheeze, And cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze.

And I know that you’ll keep social distance, It seems to help with germ resistance.

Christmas Back On The Farm to the living room, which was heated with an old coal stove, and remained warm all night. We opened our gifts, which usually were one book or toy, plus a shirt or socks, and, occasionally, maybe a new hockey stick.

No time to play, though, as we headed to the barn at 6 to milk and start the chores, and by 8 would be in to enjoy a hearty breakfast.

We returned to the barn and, since it was Christmas, added a little extra oats to the horse feed, meal for the cows, wheat for the hens, and corn in the pig slop. We rushed through this, as we then headed to the field east of the barn where, in a low area, we often had a small pond that we could shovel off the snow, or in some years we went to the Nation, just west of Cass Bridge.

Others might be turning the crank on the icecream maker to have a treat with our dessert later.

By noon, we had worked up a good appetite and went to the house, where many of

by Dwayne Holmes As I pondered about the celebration of Christmas this year and our isolation due to Covid, I remembered the big family gatherings over 70 years ago. Like most families, we were a large group and I was 9th of10 kids, meaning that I had many nieces and nephews who were also close in age.

After weeks of studying the Sears and Eaton catalogues for possible gifts we would like, the day approached. Christmas Eve was often spent helping make the traditional brown bags of candy, nuts, and the one orange that we would ever get all year. In later years, the number climbed to about 50, as the family added new kids and in-laws.

The old kitchen table was just a mass of open bags into which we dropped the goodies.

Christmas morning, around 5 am, we were awakened by the sound of sleigh bells as Santa took off from the roof. We hustled down

my older brothers and sisters with their kids had arrived to enjoy dinner. Mom had put the 25-30 pound turkey in the oven of the wood stove before we got up, and it was cooked along with a duck or goose. The door between the summer and winter kitchens was opened, and some heat poured out into the uninsulated area. Thus, close to 20 adults sat around the great kitchen table, and the 10 or so younger kids ate at a makeshift table in the summer kitchen. What a feast that always included all the fixings and 6 or 7 different kinds of pie and cookies. The kids might get a little rambunctious, with tricks like putting a pickle in somebody’s milk, but the words “That’s enough” from my dad quieted things in a hurry.

After lunch, we headed to our rink, and 10 to 15 kids from age 5 to 50 played shinny for a couple hours. Back to chores at about 4 pm, and then another almost as big a meal, as some people had

stayed since lunch, and those of the family who might have gone to in-laws made their appearance. Milking called again at 6, and after all chores were done, we were glad to just enjoy our gifts before heading to bed early, as we had to be up at 6 again the next day.

The family has continued to grow, and seven of my siblings are still living and healthy, with the oldest now 95 and two others in their 90’s. A planned reunion of the clan at brother Stu’s farm in Dalmeny last July had to be cancelled, but it is hoped we can gather this summer. If only half of the crew of almost 300 leaves on our family tree arrive, the potluck dinner should be grand. Though alone this Christmas, I am sure that the phone will be ringing, and the zoom calls will keep me company, although my cooking may not rival the wonderful cooks we have enjoyed over the years.

But there’s one more thing I need to ask, Santa, please just wear a mask.

We don’t know when this will be finished, But Christmas should not be diminished.

We must find a way to keep traditions, Though these are very tough conditions.

So fill the stockings, especially mine, With all the things you bought online.

Thanks so much, Santa dear, We’ll see you in another year.

As for friends and family, We send you hugs virtually.

Our warmest thoughts could fill a room, Even though they’re sent on email or Zoom!

613-258-0294

r bubble u o m o r “F e wish w , s r u o to y e ce for th a e p u o y ason & e s y a d i hol righter b a or f hope ead. year ah m mas fro t s i r h C Merry ends at i fr r u o y ectric” l E l l e w Ho

info@drhowellelectric.com www.drhowellelectric.com 15 Precision Drive, Unit 1, Kemptville December 23, 2020

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Stay with the happy people

This year, the holidays aren’t what they should be.

At least the vaccine’s roll-out brings anticipation that 2021 will see a return to normal.

Until then, what would be our health advice to cooped up readers in this unusual holiday season? Here are a few suggestions: Say hello: Connecting with extended family by phone is our best option for now. It’s a great time to reach out to old friends too. Behavioural scientists at the University of Chicago and UC Berkeley report that we underestimate the positive impact of connecting with others, for both our own and others' well-being. Their research shows that we tend to abhor a conversation with a perfect stranger until we have it. So, when the pandemic subsides, say hello to whomever sits beside you on a park bench.

Try social media: There are important cautions about

social media. Health promotion is not always the norm, for instance for children accessing adult content. But having a strong social network is associated with positive mental health and wellbeing. Harvard researchers have shown that using social media as part of everyday routine, and responding to content that others share, is positively associated with social well-being, positive mental health, and self-rated health. (We invite you to connect with us on Instagram!)

Visit a museum: University of Melbourne researchers have investigated the experiences, motivations and needs of older museum visitors, and found these spaces can play an important role in building social and inter-generational connectedness, and in supporting general health. Research by the University of Leicester in the UK shows that museums provide a sense of optimism and hope, self-

helps fight depression, cuts stress, and reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Share a recipe: Connecting online this holiday to share a recipe, or even cook together, creates bonds, supports self care, and creates a space for conversation. Even baking tasty treats can boost self-esteem. Donna Pincus, professor of psychological and brain sciences at Boston University, says, “Whether it’s painting or it’s making music [or baking], there is a stress relief that people get from having some kind of an outlet and a way to express themselves.”

Go for a walk in the woods: “Forest bathing” is

esteem and resilience, rest and sanctuary, and a safe, rich environment to access arts and culture. If you haven’t experienced a virtual exhibit, or an online performance, during the pandemic, it’s not too late. Give it a try over the holidays.

Read a book: Reading fires up neural pathways.

Studies show it improves memory and empathy. Immersing yourself in books

The Voice of North Grenville good for the soul. But even a walk around the block is worthy. Get outside daily.

Try a natural remedy: Read the archive of columns on our website to learn why you should consider natural approaches as your first line of defence against common health problems.

Hug somebody: Within your household this season, we hope you have somebody to hug. Mutually reciprocated embraces relax muscles, increase circulation, and release endorphins in your body that elevate your mood. One study exposed 400 people to the common cold, and found that those who reported more hugging in their lives fared

better, a tribute to social connectedness.

Be happy: The research is overwhelming: happiness is good for your health. Your heart, immune system, stress response, and pain management all improve in performance when you are happy, and the effects are lasting.

So, as Doris Day sings, “Stay with the happy people”!

Healthy holidays to all our readers.

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Follow our new Instagram accounts, @docgiff and @ diana_gifford_jones.

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by David Shanahan Christmas has a fascinating effect on people in all sorts of situations. The famous “Christmas Truce” in 1914 is one example. As Christmas Day dawned on the Western Front, just a few months into World War I, German and British soldiers, sitting in their trenches just 100 yards from each other, began to sing Christmas carols. In many places along that long front line, men on both sides began to slowly leave their positions and venture into no-man’s land to shake hands and swop food.

It was an extraordinary thing to see in war, and in most places it didn’t last long. In other parts, no firing resumed until the New Year.

Some soldiers said afterwards that, if they had been left alone, no firing would ever have resumed; but military leaders were not happy with the fraternisation, and specifically forbade any further incidents of Christmas peace. By the following December, life and death had hardened attitudes on both sides, and no further attempts were made to repeat the 1914 event.

But the very fact that it happened once, that Christmas tradition could overcome even in the midst of war, was an indication of how deeply the so-called Spirit of Christmas runs.

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the Jonsson Family to yours during these difficult times.

Please stay safe and well.

Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant

Kemptville Mall

Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

Highway 43, West, Kemptville

December 23, 2020

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Wishing all of our members and audience the gift of peace, happiness and a very Merry Christmas and Safe and Happy New Year The members of Kemptville Players decided to give back this holiday season by donating to #NGgives and The House of Lazarus Watch for some virtual theatre coming in 2021

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by David Shanahan In 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono were in the middle of a peace campaign. They arrived in Toronto on December 15, and, on the same day, billboards were unveiled in cities around the world, with the simple message: “War is Over. If you want it. Happy Christmas from John & Yoko”. Simple, possibly simplistic, but it made the point. The campaign was launched in 12 major cities: New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Rome, Athens, Amsterdam, Berlin, Paris, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Helsinki. In Toronto, more than 30 billboards were set up. Two years later, John and Yoko released their famous Christmas single: “Happy Xmas (War is over)”.

December 23, 2020

'Twas in the moon of winter-time When all the birds had fled, That mighty Gitchi Manitou Sent angel choirs instead; Before their light the stars grew dim, And wandering hunters heard the hymn: "Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."

Within a lodge of broken bark The tender Babe was found, A ragged robe of rabbit skin Enwrapp'd His beauty round; But as the hunter braves drew nigh, The angel song rang loud and high...

"Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."

The earliest moon of wintertime Is not so round and fair As was the ring of glory On the helpless infant there.

The chiefs from far before him knelt With gifts of fox and beaver pelt.

Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria.

O children of the forest free, O sons of Manitou, The Holy Child of earth and heaven Is born today for you.

Come kneel before the radiant Boy Who brings you beauty, peace and joy.

"Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria."

The "Huron Carol" (or "Twas in the Moon of Wintertime") is a Canadian Christmas hymn (Canada's oldest Christmas song), written probably in 1642 by Jean de Brébeuf, a Jesuit missionary at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons in Canada. He was one of the Jesuits killed by the Iroquois, on 16 March 1649. Brébeuf wrote the lyrics in the native language of the Huron/Wendat people; the song's original Huron title is "Jesous Ahatonhia" ("Jesus, he is born"). The well-known English lyrics were written in 1926 by Jesse Edgar Middleton.

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by David Shanahan In late November, 1984, Irish musician, Bob Geldof, of the band, The Boomtown Rats, was watching television when he saw a report on the dreadful famine that was sweeping through Ethiopia. Feeling deeply that he had to do something, he decided that his main talent was as a musician and song writer, so he contacted Midge Ure, of the band Ultravox, and between them they wrote the song, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”. By November 25, they had convinced forty musicians from other bands and solo artists to come together on a Sunday in London, where the song was recorded, produced and, within twenty-four hours, had been pressed.

The single was released on December 3, an amazingly quick turnaround for a recording. Musicians, singers, engineers, radio dj’s, record labels, and record stores, all gave their time and talent free of charge, and the song became the UK’s No. 1 Christmas single, traditionally a coveted spot. The single raised $24 US, and similar records were recorded in Canada (Tears Are Not Enough) and the US (We Are The World), as well as France and Spain.

It didn’t end there. In 1985 came Live Aid, twin concerts in London and Philadelphia. It was the start of a series of charity recordings and concerts, and all started when Bob Geldof realised that Christmas was the perfect time to call on people’s generosity and goodwill. He even managed to get Margaret Thatcher to donate to the cause. Band Aid and Live Aid combined raised about $150 million (USD) for the famine relief effort in Ethiopia.

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Stay in the know about Ward 21 in Ottawa! Visit TeamT w e nt yOn e .ca to subscribe to my e-newsletter!

Scott.Moffatt@Ottawa.ca (613) 580-2491 Follow us on social! @Team_TwentyOne @TeamTwentyOneFB _TeamTwentyOne December 23, 2020

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A Message from North Grenville’s Council This past year was unlike we could have imagined. As Council headed into its second year, we were full of passion and spirit, ready to build on the success from the year before.

And of course, who could forget our beloved Van Turken, the local turkey who stole our hearts and imagination! The lone turkey who chased a municipal employee in the parking lot during a snowstorm, caught on video, that generated national media attention.

Named by the community, mugs, T-shirts and bumper stickers were created out of his/her legacy.

There is even a Facebook group and Twitter account! The Ministry of Natural Resources was called in to safely capture and relocate the genderless bird. With all the fanfare and by the request of the community, Council declared the second Saturday of February Van Turken Day. When the Coronavirus arrived in March, the Municipality acted promptly to protect the community.

Mayor Peckford, with the support of the Emergency Control Group, declared a State of Emergency for the Municipality of North Grenville on March 25, 2020. This allowed North Grenville’s municipal government to respond quickly to the pandemic, particularly in the early weeks.

While there have been lots of challenges, we can certainly count our blessings: We are grateful that our long-term care homes have not experienced

a COVID-19 outbreak, thanks to the swift action and diligence of the hardworking staff at Bayfield and the Kemptville Retirement Home.

Up until this point, while other regions in the Province were experiencing high transmission rates, North Grenville and most of the eastern region within our health unit had low cases of COVID-19. And of course, the recent transition from Green-Prevent level up to the YellowProtect level, highlights just how quickly the virus can spread when precautions are not in place.

• Early in the lockdown, with massive economic disruptions and closures, we knew small businesses would be struggling. The Municipality invested $100,000 in a COVID-19 Business Response program to support our local economy. This provided small grants to assist local businesses to pivot their business model to a stronger web presence and adapt to the changes as a result of the pandemic.

We were so fortunate to have access to so many nature trails in Ferguson Forestry Centre and Kemptville Campus, particularly early on in the pandemic, where we saw a significant increase in use, which contributed to the physical and mental health of so many residents.

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we come together and celebrate as a community, it has not dampened our collective spirits. In the spring, many local churches, inspired by a Burritt’s Rapids resident who lives in what was an

old church, began ringing the church bells to cheer on and thank our frontline workers every Monday at 5:30 p.m.

On Canada Day, the Kemptville District Community Association worked alongside its neighbouring community associations to host an outstanding virtual celebration that captivated families and seniors alike.

Although many of the fundraisers for local charities were not able to take place as planned, we saw the community come together creatively and support the organizations and causes they represent. Many groups held virtual events, including the Neon Night for childhood cancer, the Terry Fox Run, the Santa Shuffle for the Salvation Army, and the #NGGives Initiative that raised $10,000 for the House of Lazarus. Despite the additional challenges brought by COVID, our community showed its hometown pride and generosity, and helped raised more money than ever before!

On Halloween, residents and community associations went above and beyond to offer a safe trick or treating option for families who wished to venture out, and our local BIA organized a wonderful pumpkin parade for everyone else.

As part of our ongoing strategy to support local and #LoveNG, we introduced a new local currency, NG Green, that can only be used at North Grenville’s participating businesses as a way to keep our dollars in the community.

In early December, North

Grenville saw its first community Christmas tree going up in Rotary Park, a park which was lovingly cared for in the summer months by so many volunteers.

There is no doubt that our community has shown tremendous resilience. We have relied on each other to follow precautions to keep North Grenville safe, especially those at risk.

Council is proud of the creativity and innovation so many have shown, as we all found new ways to connect virtually or at a safe distance.

Looking to 2021: The pandemic has also highlighted some critical areas for focus: 1. improvements to rural broadband (internet) throughout the Municipality; 2. the limits and opportunities for virtual fundraising; 3. the increased pressures on the Municipality’s bylaw services; 4. the urgent need to upgrade CR 43 (scheduled to begin in 2021 now that the funding is secured); and 5. the value of investing in our local trails, pathways and

waterways to keep people moving and outside.

And while the pandemic will not be over when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, there is much to look forward to.

The recent news of the approved COVID-19 vaccine gives us much hope. We know it will be a phased approach, with those most vulnerable at the top of the distribution list. Until then, we must continue to be vigilant and follow public health guidelines.

It may feel like a long time, but this, too, shall pass. The more we sustain our efforts and follow public health protocols, the sooner we can all enjoy so many of the things we took for granted a year ago.

On behalf of Council and the staff at the

Municipal ity of North Grenville, we would like to wish residents of North Grenville a safe and wonderful holiday, and a healthy and prosperous 2021.

Your Council, Mayor Nancy Peckford Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman Councillor John Barclay Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan Councillor Kristin Strackerjan

THIS CHRISTMAS

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TIMES Gord Logan

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Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman

Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan

Mayor Nancy Peckford

Merry Christmas from all of us at the Kemptville Legion

Councillor John Barclay

The Legion is closed this Christmas. There will be no New Years Day Levee.

Councillor Kristin Strackerjan

On behalf of North Grenville’s Council, we wish you a wonderful holiday a safe and healthy New Year!

&

Kemptville Legion Branch 212 December 23, 2020

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December 23, 2020

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Oxford on Rideau Public School

Wishing all my Past, Present & Future Clients, Family & Friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Cell: 613-852-4313

Gerry Seguin Sales Representative

Affiliates Realty LTD., Brokerage Independantly Owned and Operated

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Dr. C. L. Eamon Optometrist December 23, 2020

613.258.7438

212 Van Buren St. 28

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Season’s Greetings!

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From all of us at Clear Cut

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Happy to be part of the Community, we're here to serve you.

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A winter scene on Clothier Street in Kemptville, December, 1911

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas Wishing you and your family, friends and loved ones, the very best of the Holiday Season!

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The gift that keeps on taking

by David Shanahan

In a season of giving, there’s one thing we really don’t want to give or receive. The covid-19 situation in this region has become more worrying over the past month, and it is really difficult to see how it will

improve over the holiday season unless we take better care of each other.

December was not a good month in that regard.

At the end of November, there had been a total of 480 confirmed cases of covid in the UCLG East sector of the Leeds Grenville Lanark Health Unit area [LGLHU], which consists of the mu-

nicipalities of North Grenville, Merrickville-Wolford, Augusta and EdwardsburghCardinal. By December 18, that number had risen to 628.

As of last Friday, there were 50 active cases in the region, all of them in the community, rather than long-term care homes.

Fortunately, in that time period, there have been no

further deaths. Of the 53 fatalities since the pandemic arrived, all but four were in long-term care homes or seniors residences. Worryingly, however, the number of confirmed cases in rising sharply. Between December 17 and 18, there were 12 new confirmed cases, compared to six the previous day, and four between December 5 and 6.

Around half of all cases are between the ages of 20 and 64, with 41% of cases in the over-65 age group.

As of December 18, as can be seen in the map, there were 90 cases in the UCLG East sector, 7 of which were active. This does compare well with UCLG West, where there are 22 active cases, but it is about average for the rest of the region. The Health Unit issued the following statement when the area was put into the Yellow-protect category: “Following a sharp increase in people infected with COVID-19 over the past week, Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is urging residents to carefully consider their actions at this critical time. ‘We have seen a surge in the number of people newly infected from one or two new cases each day in previous weeks to up to eight new cases each day over the past week. This is affecting local businesses, workplaces, and schools,’ explains Dr.

Stewart. ‘The move from Green-Prevent to the Yellow – Protect level in our region over the past two weeks highlights how quickly COVID-19 can spread when precautions aren’t in place. Our staff are working diligently to follow-up and isolate all people with COVID-19 and their high risk contacts to prevent transmission in our community. We are relying on the residents, businesses, services and workplaces in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark to follow precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19 in their settings. It is in our hands to protect our communities, and prevent further restrictions at levels beyond yellow.’”

This is usually a time of family gatherings and group celebrations; but this year is different and we have to adapt. Better to miss out on some fun this season and remain safe and healthy until the vaccine arrives. Covid is the gift that keeps on taking: don’t be complacent and stay safe for everyone’s sake.

Here’s to a better New Year!

We have great news to share soon!

December 23, 2020

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Council signs on to another year of The perfect Christmas presents accessible transportation with ATS Places in the Past

North Grenville Council has agreed to renew its contract with Allegiance Transportation Services (ATS) to provide accessible transportation in the Municipality.

This partnership was originally forged when North Grenville Accessible Transportation (NGAT) asked the Municipality to take over the accessible transportation service in the Municipality back in 2019. NGAT was a volunteer-run organization that had been providing service to the community for over 20 years. “At the end of the day they were getting a little bit burnt out,” Economic Development Officer Matt Gilmer told Council at the meeting. “It was time that somebody else took it on, and here we are.”

The total budgeted amount for the 2020 contract with ATS was $101,000 with an expected $51,400 coming from user fares and other funding including a United Way grant. Due to COVID-19, ATS and the Municipality made the decision to suspend all non-critical transports from March to September. This caused a dramatic decrease in fare revenue which is estimated to be down 70% by the end of the year. The United Way also had to shift its programs due to

COVID-19 which resulted in the Municipality not receiving the anticipated $15,000 grant.

The Municipality has been working with the Province to try and help offset the lost revenue and cover the cost of increased cleaning practices and PPE. To date, the Municipality has received $20,400 from the Province to help with transit related costs, and ATS has also lowered its monthly service fee to reflect the drop in service.

The estimated total cost to the Municipality for the ATS contract in 2020 less revenue and funding will be $43,000.

Despite a difficult year, ridership is on the rise.

Matt told Council that in January that ATS had about 71 people using the service and while this number dropped to zero in March and April, it is slowly coming back up with 15-20 users in August and September. “In November and December, we had 20 people using the service,” he said. Since midSeptember, ATS has been

operating at full service levels and estimates that its numbers will go back up to pre-COVID levels early in the new year.

The cost of the new contract with ATS for 2021 is $101,700 reflecting increased cost of living.

ATS is expecting to collect about $25,000 from fares and will be depending on funding from the Province to help cover costs. In 2020, it did receive some funding from the gas tax, which the Municipality is automatically eligible for because it has a transportation service. However, the amount is based on population and ridership which, as previously mentioned, is down significantly. “In discussions with the Province we are definitely not alone,” Matt told Council.

“Every single city and every single municipality that’s offering a transit system is hurting.”

Because of this, Matt believes that there will be some funding from the Province available to help municipalities with transit service costs in 2021.

By David Shanahan

Get into local history with Dr. David Shanahan’s new book, “Places in the Past”, and his collection of “Stories from the South Branch”.

Available from the NG Times office at 215 Sanders Street in Kemptville. E-mail production@ngtimes. ca, or call 613-215-0735.

“Places”, $25, and “Stories”, $20.

Ontario expands "Support Local" Campaign after complaints

by David Shanahan

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A new marketing campaign by the Ontario government, designed to "show your love for local by exploring new and creative ways to reconnect with the unique small businesses and places that make the province's communities special”, has run into some rather angry sectors of the community. Local print media, such as the Times, found it rather annoying that Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, was claiming to “recognize the importance of supporting Ontario's entrepreneurs during this very difficult period”, while, at the same time, bypassing local newspapers. The plan set forth by Minister McLeod envisaged the “new campaign will launch on TV, radio, digital and social media starting mid-December and run until mid-January 2021. Advertisements will focus on the close-knit relationship between local businesses and the communities they serve.

The cry went up from community newspapers and larger print media sources: “What about us? Of course, everyone in print media recognises the urgent need

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

236 St. Lawrence Street Merrickville

December 23, 2020

33

for such a marketing campaign. Lisa McLeod cannot be faulted for her diagnosis of the crisis which affects so many small, local businesses in a time of Covid.

"COVID-19 has been a challenge for many local businesses that make up the fabric of our communities - we've all seen the anxiety in their eyes when we visit our favourite restaurant or artisan shop.

We need local, as much as local needs us," said Minister MacLeod. "That's why this new marketing campaign is so important - it reminds us that there is an incredible community right outside our doorstep that we can safely explore and reconnect with.

Clearly, we need to support our locally owned businesses now, when they need us the most."

As a member of the Ontario Community Newspaper Association [OCNA], the Times joined with our colleagues to point out to the Minister that she had neglected a major platform through which she could carry on the campaign. There was also a sense of irony that she had expected newspapers to print her press release about the campaign free of charge, when she was ignoring the same effective means of carrying on the campaign. After hearing the complaints, her

officials contacted OCNA to say that they would be in touch this week with a “constructive solution”. It is hoped that, by the time you read this, something has been done to fix the problem.

Community newspapers have been at the forefront of promoting and supporting local businesses right through this pandemic, and understand only too well the challenges faced in trying to survive in this unique time of crisis. Encouraging people to shop locally and support local restaurants, stores and other retail outlets is what is at the core of this new "show your love for local” campaign.

"Local community businesses are the heart of what makes a destination special," said Lisa LaVecchia, President and CEO, Destination Ontario. "We recognize these businesses need Ontarians' support right now to ensure the charm and wonderful experiences of these communities are there to welcome visitors back long after the pandemic."

For more information on the campaign, or Destination Ontario's efforts to promote tourism in Ontario, please visit their website: https:// www.tourismpartners.com/ en/home.

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Council looks forward to new year at last Council meeting of 2020

says that this is what most Local Journalism Initiative Reporter of the surrounding municipalities are doing, especially Merrickville-Wolford in light of the area moving Council held its last meeting into the yellow zone a few of the year last week, with weeks ago. The Mayor says Mayor Doug Struthers wish- that although their rinks are ing everyone a safe and happy outdoors, physical distancing and contact tracing would Christmas.

There were a few items still need to be observed as that came up at the meeting they are considered confined that Council and staff will spaces. Staff will continue to be looking into in the new monitor the pandemic and the year. Right now, both of information put out by the the Municipality’s outdoor health unit to see if they will rinks remain closed due to be able to open them in the COVID-19. Mayor Struthers new year. “We would love to

by Hilary Thomson

open them and if we’re able to meet the guidelines of the health unit we will certainly do so because they are so valuable,” Mayor Struthers said.

Deputy Mayor Michael Cameron also brought forward a motion that will be considered in the new year.

He suggested that some of the community grant money that was not doled out this year due to the pandemic be donated to the Emergency Food Cupboard. Treasurer Kirsten Rahm estimates that

there is about $10,000 left under the community grants line item for 2020. “Maybe not all the money but a good portion of it would go a long way for some people in our community,” Deputy Mayor Cameron said.

Councillor Bob Foster thought it was a great idea; but said the needs of the Emergency Food Cupboard would continue well into next year and it might be a good idea to wait for the financials in January and make a decision at that time. Mayor Struthers also suggested that they defer the motion to 2021 but that they make the commitment that Council will look into donating to the Emergency Food Cupboard in next year’s budget process.

“It sends a very positive message from this council to the people in our community that we are looking to give some support as best we can in 2021 for the food cupboard,” he said.

Council received at report from Forbes Simon of Jp2g Consultants Inc., about the development of McLean’s Landing Phase 2. The report outlined comments made by the public, as well as some issues in the proposal that require clarification or more attention from the applicant.

This includes the issue of

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12m in the subdivision. “We need to look at what kind of development we want at the end of our village. Do we want Barrhaven on the corner of Read Street and County Road 16?” he asked. “I don’t think we do and what I can read from some of the comments, most of our residents don’t want it either. They want a more spacious development.”

Mayor Struthers suggested that they wait until the applicant responds to Jp2g’s report before they have any further discussion on the potential subdivision. “It would be wise to have those conversations when we see what they bring back in terms of how they respond to this,” he said. “Who knows, they may not even reply.”

Finally, Council adopted the dates for the 2021 council meetings. Mayor Struthers brought forward a request made by Councillor Don Halpenny earlier this year to have some or all of the times changed for Council meetings. Most of them are on Mondays at 7:00pm; but Councillor Halpenny had suggested that they move some of them into the afternoon. “We should have that discussion; I would suggest at our first meeting in January” Mayor Struthers said.

Pilot project offers virtual COVID-19 support in North Dundas and Merrickville A study being conducted by the Bruyère Research Institute is offering virtual pandemic support to the Merrickville-Wolford and North Dundas communities.

The Access to Resources in the Community (ARC) program is a patient-centred navigation model developed to help individuals access resources to address their health and social needs. The ARC project has been in progress since 2015 and after several years of research and demonstrating that the program is highly valued by participants, they are now studying how this navigation model can be rolled out in the context of the pandemic. In August 2020, they randomly selected the Merrickville-Wolford and North Dundas regions as the study focus areas.

The project is focused on addressing needs that may have come up as a result of stress and disruptions cause by the COVID-19 pandemic. “We address any need that the individual has because of the pandemic,” says ARC team member Carolynn Warnet. “There is a big mental health portion because there have been increased levels of anxiety and depression amongst the population.”

Once contact is made with the ARC team through a primary care provider, self-referral through their website, or by contacting the team by telephone or email, the individual is put in touch with an ARC Navigator who is skilled at identifying services in the community, including virtual services and government programs that address the person’s needs, and helping them overcome barriers to care. The ARC Navigator will assess the person’s needs through video chat and suggest supports like mental health services, social supports, financial support services, food security and personal safety.

The purpose of the study is to assess the feasibility and potential efficacy of the ARC program when it comes to helping people access services related to the pandemic. The pilot project will be running until April 2021. For more information or to get in contact with an ARC Navigator, visit the website at www.arcnavigatorproject.com or call Nicholas Kathen at (613) 227-6704.

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December 23, 2020

traffic, lot frontage size, the use of unopened road allowances, housing affordability, pedestrian walkways in the subdivision and serviceability when it comes to hooking up to the Municipality’s wastewater treatment facility.

According to the report, the applicant indicated that the Municipality’s wastewater treatment facility has enough capacity to service the 48 planned units, however this has not been confirmed by municipal staff. Considering the establishment of the Merrickville Grove Subdivision in the village, it is possible that the wastewater treatment facility will not have the capacity to service these new homes, however CAO Doug Robertson could not comment on this at the meeting, referencing discussions that were held during an in-camera session. “Part of the process at some point would be verification that there is capacity at the plant for whatever their plan of subdivision might be as we move forward in the process,” Mayor Struthers said.

Councillor Timothy Molloy mentioned that Council needs to have some discussion about the applicant’s zoning amendment request to have the minimum lot frontages lowered from 18m to

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Evergreen angels raise $600 for local food bank

Angel in Blockhouse Park If you have been to Merrickville over the past few Local Journalism Initiative Reporter weeks, you may have noticed some gorgeous evergreen angels scattered throughout the village. This is the secby Hilary Thomson

ond year that Robyn Eagle has spearheaded the angel project in the village. Last year, she was part of Merrickville’s “Decorating Divas” for Christmas in Merrickville,

and she and another member of the group, Joy Barber, built 12 angels and put them up throughout downtown.

“We built the frames, and all the greenery was taken from our property, and we just put them up throughout the village,” Robyn remembers.

“They were on battery operated lights, so that was part of our brightly lit village, keeping with the Victorian theme.”

This year, Christmas in Merrickville was toned down due to COVID-19; however, with the success of last year’s angels, Robyn committed to building and placing a few angels throughout the village for the event. Her friend, Brent

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Barber, donated his time and the greenery, and Christmas in Merrickville donated the lights to make sure the angels still shone brightly at night.

“We took it upon ourselves to put up six, and I named them all,” Robyn says. “They all had special names.”

This year’s angels were even more special, because they were used to raise money for Merrickville’s Emergency Food Cupboard through a silent auction. The angels were put up at the end of November, with bidding sheets placed strategically throughout the village, and the auction ended on December 6, after the Christmas in

Merrickville weekend. All six winners were locals, with Jennifer Ritskes, Elaine Cote, Yves Grandmaitre, Janet Starkey, Sheila Cook, Stuart Jackson, and Elena Venables all claiming angels. A total of $600 was raised for the Emergency Food Cupboard.

Robyn asked the winners to leave the angels in their places until December 19, and two of the six winners have committed to leaving the angels in the village throughout the holiday season. The angel at the Cenotaph was generously donated to the Village

by Elaine Cote of Cote Chiropractic, and Elena Venables donated her angel to Holy Trinity Anglican Church.

“It was just something to keep the festivities going and to brighten people’s spirits,” Robyn says about the initiative. “There’s such positive feedback about them.

Everywhere I go people say – oh they’re just so wonderful – and so it’s nice that people appreciate them.”

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Happy to be part of the Community, we're here to serve you.

MERRICKVILLE DRUG MART

112 WELLINGTON ST E. • 613 269 4737 December 23, 2020

35

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Ecole Ste Marguerite Bourgeoys, Merrickville

In the spirit of the holiday season, we would like to thank our community for your ongoing support and encouragement.

Ecole Rivière Rideau

The holidays will look different this year, but we hope the important things remain: connecting with your loved ones and experiencing the joy and peace of the holiday season.

Warm wishes from everyone at Kemptville District Hospital

2675 Concession Road, Kemptville, ON www.kdh.on.ca

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CROSSWORD

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41. Demise 43. Snouted animal 44. Misprint 46. Pearly-shelled mussel 47. To make a fool of (archaic) 49. Anagram of "Ail" 50. Collections 51. Mysterious 54. Tuft 56. Equipment 57. Bandoneon 63. Against 64. Diva's solo 65. Proprietor 66. Encounter 67. Gave temporarily 68. Cuts into cubes 69. Askew 70. Balcony section 71. Ancient Greek unit of length

UCDSB Director of Education announces retirement

DOWN 1. Stinging remark 2. Iridescent gem 3. Nurse shark 4. Relating to urine 5. Feed a fire 6. Absolute 7. Settle 8. Heavy, durable furniture wood 9. View 10. Similar in meaning 11. Tropical vine 12. Not lower 13. Untidy 21. Heroic tales 25. Dry 26. Garret 27. Dwarf buffalo 28. Cease 29. Unity 34. Copy 36. Common hop 37. Module 38. Prima donna problems 40. Weightlifters pump this 42. Clamor 45. Gaping sleepily 48. Summon to return 51. Small terrestrial lizard 52. Regenerate 53. Provide food for 55. Goads 58. Chocolate cookie 59. Blockhead 60. Ancient Peruvian 61. Require 62. Backside

Upper Canada District School Board Director of Education, Stephen Sliwa, has made the challenging decision to retire from his role within the school board, effective June 30, 2021.

“I am grateful for the privilege of serving students, the Board of Trustees, and the local community during my time as the Director of Education,” says Director Sliwa.

“I have enjoyed the opportunity to provide leadership to staff, who have significantly elevated the operation of our schools and have generated a greater range of partnerships in our community that enhance the experiences of our students.”

The Director has pointed out that the school district has had a number of challenges that the Board has needed to confront over the past several years, with the largest of these being the vital need for the delivery of student programming during the pandemic, and keeping students connected to learning. “This has not been an easy time for anyone within our school board, but I give credit to all UCDSB staff for going above and beyond the call of duty while fully

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attending to students during this historic time. It’s been my pleasure to work alongside you to navigate this complex time for our families. I am proud of all the work we have accomplished, and I know that you will continue this great work.”

Stephen Sliwa has devoted 35 years to public education. He began his career in 1985 as an educational assistant in the Peel District School Board, working with students in day treatment programs. From there, his journey took him to work in three different school districts as a special education teacher, guidance counsellor, vice-principal, principal, and school board executive.

In 2004, he became a Superintendent of Education in the Renfrew County District School Board, transferring over to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board in 2010, where he served as a Superintendent of Instruction.

In 2015, he was appointed by the Upper Canada District School Board as its Director of Education, following an extensive year-long process to hire a new Chief Executive Officer for the school district.

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Stephen is active in the community beyond the school board as a member of several local not-for-profit organizations, as well as an executive member of the Council of Ontario Directors of Education, and currently serves as the Chair of the Ontario Institute for Educational Leadership.

His ongoing association with the Eastern Ontario Staff Development Network (EOSDN) led to mentoring the next generation of school superintendents, many of whom are working across Ontario in key leadership assignments in the K to 12 education sector.

“It has been a real pleasure to work with Stephen, and I’m looking forward to continuing this collaboration until the end of June. His calm and collected manner and his seasoned leadership are exactly what this school district needed, especially over this past year, which has had many struggles. Stephen has helped us, as Trustees and me as Chair, to become better in our respective roles. I want to thank Stephen for all the work he has done to move this board forward. His dedication to his work and our students has never gone unnoticed,” says Chair of the Board John McAllister.

The UCDSB Board of Trustees will begin a formal search process for a new Director of Education. That process will be confirmed early in the new year. The Board expects the new Director of Education to be in place by no later than the summer of 2021.

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Food Labelling

by Marie Traynor, Registered Dietitian and Public Health Nutritionist at the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit This holiday season will be very different for many of us. But, with some food labelling information, we can still choose the healthiest and tastiest products possible, whether we are shopping for our families, or choosing foods for others.

Health Canada has introduced changes to food labelling based on consumer feedback. The food industry has been given until 2021 to make these changes. The Nutrition Facts table and the ingredients list are two sources of valuable information on food packaging.

The ingredients are still listed with the most by weight at the start of the list, but now you’ll start seeing similar ingredients grouped together.

For example, all sugars-based ingredients will appear in brackets after the word ‘sugars’, to help identify all of the sources of sugars added to a food. Also new, you’ll start to see food colours listed by their individual common names.

Nutrition Facts Tables are changing slightly and in a

good way. This is where you find the information on how much of a nutrient is in the described serving size. They are also very useful when comparing products. You’ll find the Nutrition Facts Table on all packaged, bottled or canned food items.

When comparing two products, start by comparing the serving size. Use the serving size described in milliliters (mL) or in grams (g). As the food industry begins to catch up with the changes, you will see the Nutrition Facts Tables using similar serving sizes for similar products.

Use the % Daily Value (% DV) to see if a serving size has a little or a lot of a nutrient. Keep in mind that 5% DV or less is a little, and 15% DV or more means a lot. This important message will appear at the bottom of the revised Nutrition Facts Tables. For example, if you are trying to reduce the sodium in your diet, you might choose a product that has 5%DV or less of sodium. Or, if you are trying to increase your calcium, look for a product with 15%DV or more of calcium. Nutrition claims are often the first piece of nutri-

tion information one sees on packaged food. They must follow Health Canada rules.

Nutrient content claims highlight the amount of a nutrient in a food such as ‘very high source of fibre’. Diet-related health claims highlight helpful effects of a certain food on a person’s health, such as ‘a diet low in saturated and trans fat reduces risk of heart disease’.

Nutrition claims are optional. Just because there isn’t a claim on the package, that that doesn’t mean it’s not a good choice. Use the Nutrition Facts table and the ingredients list to make food choices that are best for you.

Also know that the words ‘lite’, or ‘light’, can refer to the taste, texture, or look of a food, not just calories. The words ‘lower’, or ‘reduced’, mean the nutrient is lower than in the original. And ‘no sugar added’ does not mean sugar-free. Natural sugar may still be present.

Other information on food packages can include how much is in the container, how to reach the manufacturer, the expiry date or the best before date, recipes, how to store the product after opening, and, of course, lots of marketing stuff!

For more information, go to www.healthunit.org and see the Healthy Eating and the Food Safety sections. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook (@LGLHealthUnit) or call 1-800-660-5853.

The Voice of North Grenville

Health Unit Holiday Hours The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit will continue to provide essential services related to COVID-19 throughout the holiday period. The Health Unit offices are closed to the walk-in public but phone lines, case and contact management, and emergency on call services will continue throughout the holiday period. As well, local Assessment Centres will continue to operate throughout the holiday period, with varying hours. Some non-COVID-19 services will be unavailable during the stat holidays De-

OPP Report

STOLEN VEHICLE (NORTH GRENVILLE, ON) On December 8, 2020 at around 11:30 p.m. officers from the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received notification of a vehicle on fire on Spruit Road, North Dundas. After an investigation, it was revealed that the SUV had been stolen from a residence near Boundary Road, North Grenville earlier that evening. The investigation is ongoing DRIVER REFUSES TEST

cember 24, 25, 28, 31, and January 1.

Our surveillance report will be available online at 4pm on December 23, 28, 29, 30 and then will resume Monday to Fridays on January 4, 2021.

Our website will provide a complete list of services: - Health Unit phone lines – including questions about symptoms, isolation, testing and school issues (Call 1-800660-5853 ext. 2222) - Hours of operation of Assessment Centres – Centres have varying hours over the holidays.

- Well water bottle pick up and drop off - Sexual Health Clinics To book appointments, please call 1-800-660-5853.

- Immunization Clinics To book appointments, please call 1-800-660-5853.

- Smart works harm reduction services - For a public health emergency, call 613-345-5685 For information about recommendations for holiday gatherings, visit: https://healthunit.org/health-information/ covid-19/gatherings-socialcircles/

On December 8, 2020 at around 10:00 p.m. officers from the Grenville County Detachment of the OPP were conducting a RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) check at French Settlement Road in the Township of North Grenville. As a result of a police investigation, a 22 year old male, of North Grenville has been charged with Failure or Refusal to Comply with Demand, contrary to the Criminal Code s. 320.15(1).

The accused was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville on January 8, 2021.

MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISION On December 9, 2020 at around 10:00 a.m. members from Grenville County OPP

attended a residence west of Johnston Road in North Grenville for a report of a single motor vehicle collision. An unoccupied vehicle had been set in motion inadvertently by a dog inside. The owner sustained minor injuries attempting to stop the vehicle.

If you have any information on the above investigations or any other please contact Grenville OPP on 1-888310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-(TIPS) 8477 or submit your tip on-line at www.ontariocrimestoppers. ca. Crime Stoppers does not want your name, you don't go to court, and you could earn cash reward.

Roger Haley sworn in as Leeds Grenville Warden

Roger Haley, Mayor of the Township of Front of Yonge, was sworn in as Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville for the term December, 2020 to November, 2022. Warden Haley has been Mayor of Front of Yonge for four terms, including the last two by acclamation. He has been a member of municipal council dating December 23, 2020

back to 2002.

In his opening address, Mr. Haley said it has been a difficult year for everyone due to the pandemic, and that issues related to COVID-19 will continue well into 2021.

He commended area longterm health care workers, paramedics, public works, and social services staff for their continued dedication to

concern, we will have difficult the area.

“We have all been doing choices to make in terms of business in different ways, but spending our dollars wisely. what hasn’t changed is our Our residents demand that mandate to provide services and rightly so,” Warden Haley to the people of Leeds and said. He noted there are ongoGrenville, whether that be ing major projects continuing health care, emergency care, into his term, including the good roads, safe housing, expansion at Maple View economic development, com- Lodge, Highway 43, immunity, or social programs,” proved broadband, affordable he said. He also noted that housing, and improved recommunication is key, and sponse times for paramedics.

Outgoing Warden, Pat Samunicipalities need to work yeau, Mayor of Edwardsburg together.

“Sometimes, in our pas- Cardinal, welcomed the new sion for our own communi- Warden and passed the Chain ties, the ‘W’ in the word ‘We’ of Office, following social gets tipped on its side and distancing rules.

“I want to thank the staff leans toward turning into the word ‘Me.’ When we are here, here at the United Counties at Counties Council, we have for all the assistance they to remember we are wearing have extended to me during two hats,” he said in support- my term of office. I have ing all Leeds Grenville com- appreciated their help very munities working together, much. I also wanted to say to including the separated mu- members of Counties Council nicipalities of Brockville, that it has been a pleasure and an honour to serve as Warden Prescott, and Gananoque.

“As unexpected costs for the past two years, and continue to rise and remain a I’ve appreciated the support 38

that I’ve received throughout that time,” Mr. Sayeau said.

Counties Council representatives joined the inaugural swearing in of the Warden via Zoom, due to COVID-19 restrictions. The number in attendance in the council chambers was held to a minimum. John Doran, Justice of the Peace, administered the Oath of Office. Also present were CAO Andy Brown, County Clerk Lesley Todd, and Deputy Clerk Andrea Bolton.

Kimberley Heath, of Wall Street United Church, delivered the invocation via Zoom.

Several special guests also joined virtually, including Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lake MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, City of Brockville Mayor Jason Baker, and Prescott Mayor Brett Todd.

Warden Haley was first appointed to municipal office

for a one-year term due to a vacancy on council in 2002.

He was successful in his first election as councillor in 2003.

Three years later, in 2006, he was successful in his bid for Mayor. This is his fourth term as Mayor, having been acclaimed the last two terms.

He worked as a negotiator for the Ontario Public Service Employees Union for 27 years before retiring in 2015.

THIS CHRISTMAS

SHOP LOCAL

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Don't Feel Like Cooking? ....call a caterer!!!

Helping Hands Commitment Award honorees announced Curbside Family Meals

613.860.2539

Menu#42

Mon Dec 28th - Wed Dec 30th

www.dialachef.ca

The 11 Days Of Christmas

Includes choice of soup or salad and choice of dessert. Meals come with homemade baguette.

Apple cider onion soup Or Turkey vegetable noodle soup (available after Christmas) Or Hot Bloody Mary Soup *** December 24 & 25: Turkey dinner, includes stuffing, sweet potato mash, carrots, Brussels Sprout, cranberry sauce & gravy.

December 26: Roast prime rib of beef, creamy scallop potatoes, carrots, broccoli, horseradish and le gravy au jus.

December 27: Duck leg confit, Salardaise potatoes, green beans. (limited quantities, order fast).

December 28: Salmon fillet poached in red wine, with mushrooms and glazed pearl onions, steamed potatoes.

December 29: Roasted Cornish hen, orange cranberry sauce, wild rice & vegetables.

December 30: Shrimps, scallops, clams and mussels ragout in a light creamy cari sauce, rice.

December 31: Surf & turf ( Beef tenderloin peppercorn sauce, broiled lobster tail in garlic), croquette potatoes, vegetables.

January 1st: New year day brunch: assortment of croissants and muffin, Cinnamon oatmeal, French toasts, poach egg with red wine mushroom sauce, home made sausages, home fries, apple syrup crêpe.

January 2nd: Roasted chicken with red wine and mushroom sauce, Duchesse potatoes & vegetables.

January 3rd: Slow braised lamb shoulder with winter vegetables and potatoes. *** Chocolate mint trifle, Or Mince meat tart Or Pumpkin cheesecake $42.50 per person, plus HST $5.00 delivery fee.

Snow Removal - Small Driveways, Walkways & Steps - Decks

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant

Meals for a family for 2 $35.00 or 4 $65.00 + HST. Order online www.cateredaffairs.ca

Catered Affairs Chinese Takeout Sweet n sour chicken balls, Beef & Vegetable Stir Fry, Vegetable Fried Rice & Crispy Pork Egg Rolls w/ Plum Sauce, Wonton Soup (Chicken wontons) Chicken Tikka Masala Tender Boneless Chicken in Curry Coconut Sauce, Basmati Rice, Vegetables, Samosas & CIlantro Dip & Flat Bread Swedish Meatballs Beef meatballs in sourcream sauce, whipped mashed potatoes, Buttered egg noodles, veggies Beef Chimichangas with Taco Salad Kit Fried flour tortillas stuffed with Beef, peppers,onions & cheese, Mexican rice & beans, Pico de Gallo (chunky salsa), Sour cream, Cheddar, House Fried Corn Tortilla Chips & Salad Greens 4 Course New Years Eve Dinner Available Dec 31st 11am - 2pm Meal for 2 $65.00 or for 4 $120.00.

Please select One Menu Item for your order for Curbside Pick up Soup | Salad | Main | Dessert Sweet Potato & Coconut Soup (GF/DF) Beet & Pomegranate Jewels on Local Greenhouse Salad with Honey Citrus Vinaigrette Slow Roasted Rib Eye with red wine sauce, Yorkshire Pudding, Roasted Potatoes & vegetables OR Crisp Chicken Breast stuffed with Cheese & Prosciutto, White wine herbed cream sauce, roasted potatoes, Vegetables N.Y. Style Cheesecake with Raspberry Sauce & Brittle Or Chocolate Ganache Tart with 5yr Rum Caramel Sauce Holiday Entertaining Appetizer Packages (Available Till December31) (5-8 pieces per person Minimal Home Chef assembly required with heating instructions).

Asian Affair - Platter for 4 $65.00 Mexican Fiesta - Platter for 4 $70.00 Middle Eastern Platter for 4 $65.00 Indian Platter for 4 $65.00 Fun Fare Platter for 4 $65.00 Seafood Lovers Platter for 4 $90.00 Charcuterie Board for 4-6 $65.00 Wishing you all the best for the holidays and we are gracious for you continued support

N.G. Catered Affairs will be closed Jan 4 - Jan 8th for maintenance.

Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca December 23, 2020

39

The latest Commitment Award recipients are (l-r): Volunteers Faye McCurdy, Judy Little, and Marilyn McCurdy; Physiotherapy Aide Suzie Brown; and Dr. Crystal Doyle, Chief of Emergency. (Missing are Volunteers Dave Black, Feras Balbous, Chris Spring, Bill Pollock, Madeline Bourbonnais, Chris Hudson, Marg Merkley, Anita McGuire, Joan Farlinger, Marie Steele, and Nancy Farley-Holmes.

by Jane Adams Every morning at Winchester District Memorial Hospital [WDMH], Physiotherapy Aide Suzie Brown arrives early at work to prepare coffee. She also regularly brings in treats from home, including home grown produce. Then she gets to work supporting three Physiotherapists and the patients we serve.

“From her encouraging words during patient interactions on the phone, to the time she takes to actively listen and engage with in-patient concerns, Suzie’s presence is truly uplifting, and she embodies the team player role,” say her colleagues.

At the heart of the pandemic operations and planning group, Dr. Crystal Doyle continues to work tirelessly to protect her department and all WDMH staff from COVID-19. As Chief of Emergency, she has shown leadership to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the community. “Her collaborative approach and out-of-the-box thinking have resulted in new ideas for everything from personal protective equipment to ER follow-up clinics,” explain her teammates.

It’s one of the most-high traffic areas of the hospital, but our volunteers didn’t hesitate to step up to serve as screeners at the front door. Other volunteers have helped to support administrative staff behind the scenes. We have been thrilled to welcome back a few of our amazing volunteers for these important roles at WDMH. “All of the volunteers have always gone above and beyond living our Commitment Statement. But during the pandemic, they have really lived the one team approach to care,” confirm WDMH staff. Thank you to Dave Black, Feras Balbous, Chris Spring, Bill Pollock, Madeline Bourbonnais, Chris Hudson, Marg Merkley, Anita McGuire, Joan Farlinger, Judy Little, Marilyn McCurdy, Fay McCurdy, Marie Steele, and Nancy Farley-Holmes.

Recently, Suzie Brown, Dr. Doyle, and our pandemic volunteers were presented with The WDMH Commitment Award.

It shines a light on individuals or teams that demonstrate the values that result in compassionate excellence.

Congratulations to all the nominees! www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

John Howard Society ready for Kemptville prison

by David Shanahan One of the arguments that has been used against siting the proposed correctional facility (prison) in Kemptville has been the lack of support services in the area. However, the John Howard Society has been involved in talks with the municipality, as well as provincial officials, about providing those services to inmates once the prison opens in a few years time.

In a conversation with the Times, Julie Langan, Executive Director of the John Howard Society of Kingston and District, commented: “We share the community’s focus on public safety in Kemptville, and have been providing effective bail supervision and re-entry support services to incarcerated and recently released populations in Leeds and Grenville for almost five years. We have supervised over 300 people in Leeds and Grenville, many of whom were released from the Brockville Jail, helping them address the reasons they have come in conflict with the law and deal with their charges.

We are keen to similarly support Kemptville by providing the new correctional institution and the community the supports it needs to facilitate the safe reintegration of its inmates.”

For over 60 years, the John Howard Society of Kingston and District has been working towards effective, just, and humane response to crime and its causes. Their frontline staff serve at-risk and justice-involved clients in correctional institutions in Kingston and surrounding areas, including Leeds and Grenville.

Ms. Langan pointed out to the Times that those housed in provincial correctional institutions are those sentenced to two years or less, or those awaiting trial. Those sentenced for crimes that are far more serious tend to be housed in federal correctional institutions. “63% of all admissions in the 2018-2019 were for non-violent offences, according to the Auditor December 23, 2020

General’s report (2019).”

In support of her contention that the presence of a prison in a community does not of necessity lead to an increase in crime rates, Ms. Langan used the example of the City of Kawartha Lakes.

“The Central East Correctional Centre was built in 2002, and since then the City of Kawartha Lakes has seen a steady decrease in their crime severity index. This cannot

be attributed to the building of the institution, it can be used as an example of an institution having been recently built in a smaller community, not increasing violent crime in the area. Kawartha Lakes’ crime rate has been under the provincial average most of that time.”

With the involvement of the John Howard Society, it is to be hoped that some, at least, of the concerns raised in

this community about the proposed prison may be eased.

Preparations for the eventual presence of the prison in our community will continue between the Society and the Municipality. Ms. Langan confirmed that: “We have had discussions with Mayor Nancy Peckford on how we can best support the Kemptville community, and look forward to continuing these conversations.”

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