Aug. 20, 2026 • Volume 40, No. 10
Next edition September 3
L’édition de cette semaine à l’intérieur...
Navan Fair avoids summer storms, almost By Fred Sherwin The Orléans Star
Two girls give the thumbs up while enjoying one of the rides at this year’s Navan Fair. TOM DEVECSERI PHOTO
It’s been a running joke for as long as the Navan Fair is old that it wouldn’t be a Navan Fair unless at least one day was temporarily interrupted by a massive downpour. And given the record rainfall the area has received so far this summer, including six major thunderstorms during the month of July, the organizers were understandably worried about a possible washout. Instead, this year’s fair went off under relatively dry conditions. Except for a brief downpour on Saturday afternoon, the rain held off during the four-day event, allowing fairgoers the opportunity to enjoy all the fair had to offer without the need for an umbrella or a poncho. Things got underway on Thursday with competition in the Heavy Horse show and the Ayrshire, Holstein and Jersey Cattle show. The opening ceremony was attended by special guest Mayor Mark Sutcliffe who cut the ribbon with the assistance of Orléans SouthNavan city councillor Catherine Kitts and this year’s Navan Fair Ambassador, McKenna Wall.
It was also announced that perennial Navan Fair Baking Queen, Dominique Deschamps, had regained the crown she lost to her son Vincent at last year’s Fair, Thursday’s main event was the mini-smash demolition derby for six-cylinder cars, which was held in front of a packed grandstand. Friday turned out to be another rain-free day as visitors toured the midway and took in a number of special attractions including the Meet the Keepers Wild Presentation Show, the Countryside Petting Farm and Pony Rides and the Capital Cowgirls Drill Team demonstration. Fans of the furry, four-legged variety were drawn to the Ultimutts Animal Actors Show which has been a must-see attraction for the past three years. Friday’s activities also included the mid-size, and semi-stock full-size demolition derby as the PowerWheels derby for the youngsters. The day was brought to a close with a performance by The Derringers and Signal Hill under the Domes.
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COMMUNITY BRIEFS Community Corn Roast set for this Thursday ORLEANS – The annual Community Corn Roast and BBQ hosted by Orléans MP Marie-France Lalonde and MPP Stephen Blais on Petrie Island is set to go this Thursday. Visitors will be able to treat themselves to free local corn and burgers cooked up by members of the local Lions Club. There will also be free entertainment presented by students from Sing House Studio and activities for the children. The event is the perfect opportunity to come out and meet your local political representatives at both the federal and provincial levels of government in an informal setting, while also enjoying the surroundings offered by Petrie Island.
Orléans Brewing Co. closes it’s doors after nine years in business
2 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
ORLEANS – In a turn of events that has shocked beer lovers in Orléans and across Ottawa, the Orléans Brewing Co. has closed it’s doors for good after serving up quality craft beer for nearly nine years. OBC owners Yann and Celia Lemieux broke the news on the company’s social media platforms on Aug. 4. “After almost nine unforgettable years, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to close our doors,” the couple wrote on their Facebook page. “This wasn’t something we wanted — but rising costs, increased rent, mounting pressures, and circumstances beyond our control have left us with no other path forward.” The Lemieux’s OBC owners Yann went on to thank their customers for supporting over the and Celia Lemieux years. “What we built together became so much more than a brewery. OBC became a place where strangers became friends, and friends became family. Every pint poured, every plate served, every late‑night laugh meant more to us than you’ll ever know. To all of you and to our wonderful staff over the years… Thank you for showing up, for cheering us on, and for letting us be part of your lives. Goodbyes hurt, but we’re walking away with full hearts — grateful for every visit, every toast, every shared moment.”
79th edition of the Navan Fair another resounding success Continued from page 1
The annual Navan Fair Parade kicked things off on Saturday, followed by a bed race showdown between members of the Navan fire station and Sunnymead Farms which was won by the first responders. New this year was the 1st Annual Navan Fair Zucchini-500 Car Race in which competitors attached wheels to zucchinis and raced each other down a track in the Navan Pavilion. Later in the day, men and machine went head-to-head in the Truck Pull to see who could pull a weighted sled the farthest. The day ended with a performance by The Road Hammers. Sunday’s events featured the always popular Baby Show for infants 10-18 months old, the Western Horse Show, the Beef Cattle show, three more Ultimutt performances and the Tractor Pull. This year’s Fair was brought to a close by The RockPhiles and doubleBack.
TOM DEVECSERI PHOTO
The Navan Fair traditionally marks the beginning of the fair season in Eastern Ontario. For a complete list of area fairs, visit https://ontarioagsocieties.com/our-fairs.
2026 municipal election set to get underway this weekend variety of branches, including the Transit Services Department. According to her website, Milburn is running out of a desire to build “a better and more inclusive Ottawa for everyone”. To find out more about the candidate and her platform visit milburn2026.ca. In Orléans West-Innes ward, incumbent Laura Dudas is being challenged by Convent Glen resident Jenna Jessop. Jessop is a Junior Program Officer at the Canada Border Services Agency. She’s running her campaign based on a Jenna Jessop desire that “public service should ultimately be about people: listening carefully, communicating openly and finding practical ways to make things better”. For more information about her campaign visit jennajessop.ca. In Orléans South-Navan ward, incumbent Catherine Kitts is being challenged by
La Ha Tacos food truck owner and operator Jason Wing, who is running on a platform primarily based on accountability and the fact he believes no candidate should run unopposed, especially if they are an incumbent. As of press time, Wing had not yet set up a website for his campaign. Jason Wing Of the four east end wards, Orléans East-Cumberland ward is by far the mostly hotly contest. As of press time, six people had filed their nominations papers for a chance to run against incumbent Matt Luloff. They are civil fraud and personal injury lawyer Sherif Rizk, former Green Party of Ontario candidate Bob Bell; computer scientist Mazhar Choudhry, who has worked for both the federal government and in the private sector; Yvette Ashiri, who ran against Kitts in Orléans South-Navan in the 2022 municipal electiong and garnered 22
per cent of the vote; Tammie Trellert who is a board executive at Treble Victor Group; and Barbara Daniela Gandolfo who is a member of both the federal and provincial Liberal riding associations and the founder of the Fallingbrook Neighbourhood Watch program. The candidates’ websites can be found at: • www.tammietrellert.ca • www.yvetteashiri.ca • www.sherifrizk.ca • www.choudhry.org • www.bobbell2026.ca • www.barbaraforcouncil.ca When Ottawa residents head to the polls on Oct. 26, they will also be voting for mayor and school board trustees. Who you vote for the latter depends on where you live and which school board you support, either English public, English Catholic, French public or French Catholic. For more information about the election including information about the candidates, visit ottawa.ca/elections.
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3 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
By Fred Sherwin The Orléans Star The 2026 municipal election officially gets underway this weekend with contested races in all four east end wards. The deadline to file nomination papers to become a candidate expires this Friday. As of press time, the incumbent councillors in Orléans West-Innes, Orléans South-Navan and Beacon Hill-Cyrville each faced a single challenge, while no fewer than six people have registered to run against Orléans EastCumberland incumbent Matt Luloff. In Beacon Hill-Cyrville ward, three-term incumbent Tim Tierney is being challenged by Cathryne Milburn who has spent the last four years representing Beacon Hill–Cyrville and Orléans West-Innes on the OttawaCarleton District School Board, while Cathryne working for the City Milburn of Ottawa across a
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Goosed It’s no secret that for the past 20-30 years, Canada geese have given this country a bad rap. Type the words “Canada geese” into the Google search bar and click “news” and see what pops up. For the sake of convenience, I did just that last week and six stories came about how Canada geese are wreaking havoc in the UK. A headline in the Aug. 9 edition of the London Telegraph reads “Canada Geese are a monstrous pest”. Underneath, the article is summed up with the words, “We should have no qualms about culling the rats of the sky”. Sounds a bit harsh, I agree, but residents in many parts of the UK are understandably upset about the damage the birds are doing there. A tennis club in Weybridge, England, was so upset that they decided to take matters into their own hands and killed eight geese and several goslings in the middle of the night. The biggest issue has to do with a Canada goose’s propensity to poop, especially in large numbers. Other issues include their aggressive territorial behavior toward both humans and other animals, and their habit of stalking and begging for food. Canada geese also regularly appear in the aviation’s Top 20 of most frequent bird-strike species. The British Wildlife Trust estimates the Canada goose population in the UK is over 250,000 and without any natural predators it is expected to continue to grow by several thousand every year. Golf courses in the upper United States and Canada spend millions of dollars every year trying to keep the geese off their properties. Way back in 1998, the Ottawa Sun sent myself and a reporter down to Nyack, New York to do a story after the town council placed a bounty on more than 1,000 Canada geese who had decided to make the community park their temporary home. When I waded into the gaggle of geese to take some pictures, they started attacking and biting me. I was barely able to make it back to the car alive. In fact, I’m still traumatized by Canada geese to this day. But I have an idea. An idea that was born out of Americans giving us grief over the smoke from our wildfires crossing the border and Donald Trump trying to rename the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of America. So why not change the name “Canada geese” to “American geese”? It’s a PR grand slam. No more, “Canada geese” this and “Canada geese” that. It’s America’s problem now. And before you start with your, “but Fred, the Canada goose is our national bird.” No, it ain’t. In fact, our national bird, as chosen by a Canadian Geographic survey in 2016, is the Gray Jay. I know, I never heard of it before either. If we are to replace the Canada goose as part of our national identity, I vote for the loon. It’s beak and tail feathers way better than the Canada goose, or should I say the American goose. – Fred Sherwin
Jody Maffett
Editor The Orléans Star
Fred Sherwin
Owner and publisher
fsherwin@orleansstar.ca
Jean-Marc Pacelli Editor L’Orléanais
The Orléans Star is a bi-weekly publication covering the east end communities of Blackburn Hamlet, Orléans and Navan. The newspaper is locally owned and operated by Sherwin Publishing Inc., 745 Farmbrook Cres., Orléans, ON. Inquiries and delivery issues should be sent to info@orleansstar.ca.
The work of community building does not stop in the summertime For those who do not follow provincial politics closely, the Ontario Liberal Party is currently choosing a new leader — and, we hope, Ontario’s next Premier. Five candidates are seeking the leadership, including two current members of the Ontario Liberal caucus and a former federal cabinet minister. One of them will soon become Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and make the case to Ontarians that they should be the next Premier of Ontario. Leadership races are important moments for political parties. They are a chance to debate ideas, set priorities and listen to the people’s priorities. That is why I am pleased that, on Tuesday, August 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., we are bringing the Ontario Liberal leadership race directly to Orléans and East Ottawa. Together with John Fraser, MPP for Ottawa South, and Lucille Collard, MPP for Ottawa–Vanier, I am hosting an East Ottawa Leadership Meet & Greet at MIFO’s temporary location at Place d’Orléans. The goal is simple: give residents an opportunity to meet the people who want to lead the Ontario Liberal Party, hear directly from them and ask questions about the issues that matter to our communities. Political leadership contests can sometimes feel distant from everyday life. Most people are focused on
work, family, paying the bills, getting around the city and trying to find a family doctor. That’s life these days. But the choice of leader matters. We are choosing the person who will shape our party’s priorities and present a vision for a change in governing Ontario. Orléans is one of the fastest-growing parts of our city. Our communities are facing major issues including health care access, affordability, transportation, schools, housing and the infrastructure needed to keep pace with growth. Residents deserve to hear what leadership candidates would do about them. The evening will include time to mix and mingle with the candidates, hear each of them address the audience and put questions to them from local residents. Whether you’re a longtime Liberal, were a member in the past and have let your membership lapse, or are thinking about getting involved for the first time, you are welcome to join us. The East Ottawa Leadership Meet & Greet takes place Tuesday, August 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. at MIFO’s temporary location at Place d’Orléans. Attendance is free, but space is limited. Please RSVP in advance at stephenblais.com. I hope to see you there.
Celebrating a remarkable community and the people who call it home
Up Front Fred Sherwin worth Apartments in Putney, which is in the west end of London on the south shore of the Thames. My sister, Michelle, who was born in London while we were there, made the same trip to Putney three years ago and took a selfie with her finger pointing at the ground floor apartment we lived in. After taking the train from downtown London to Putney, I took the same picture. I also walked down the street to the Duke’s Head pub which dad apparently frequented on his way home from work. The story goes, that my mom would often have to leave the apartment and march down to the pub to haul him back home. They didn’t have Smart phones and texting back in those days and no one in the pub would answer the phone between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. for fear that it would be one of the patrons’ wives. Entering the same pub my father frequented almost 65 years ago turned out to be fairly emotional. Even more so when I found out from the bartender that the pub hadn’t changed one iota in all that time. After downing a pint in memory of my pops and returned to my hostel to prepare for my
The Duke’s Head pub in Putney, England where my dad used to have the odd pint after work. FRED SHERWIN PHOTO
journey to Ripon, which is about two hours by train and bus from Manchester. Fortunately, I have some friends in the city who offered to host me for the couple of days I was there. Amelia is the sister of my friend Jackson in Puerto and Noel is her husband. They’re both amazing people, and as it turned out, Amelia is an amazing cook. On the first day I was there, they invited all their friends to the local pub to meet me. On day two, I started for Ripon, which is known for having a large cathedral built between the 14th and 16th centuries and is the third smallest city in the England with a population of just over 16,000 people. When I arrived in Ripon, I went straight to the old cemetery behind the cathedral and started searching for headstones with either the name Jackson or Sherwin on them It took me about 20 minutes, but low and behold among the tombstones in the back row was one with the names on it. I was so thrilled at finding the gravemarker that I had to call my brother right away to tell him the news. “Hi Mike. I’m in Ripon.” “Where’s that?” he asked. “Where mom and dad’s families are from,” I answered. “Dad’s family is not from Ripon. They’re from Whitby. And mom’s family is from Manchester.” Doh! So much for tracing my family roots. I was in the general area, but the wrong town. And to make matters worse, Whiby is another two hours by bus north of Ripon.
The centuries-old cathedral in Ripon, England where, as it turns out, my family isn’t from. FRED SHERWIN PHOTO Since it was already six o’clock when I called my brother I didn’t have the time to continue my journey. I returned to Manchester a little disappointed but determined to come back next year to finally connect the dots. In the meantime, I’m going to do a little more research to try and make my search a little easier. Stay tuned.
Yours truly outside the Kenilworth Apartments in Putney, England where my family lived from 1962-1964. FRED SHERWIN PHOTO
5 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
I recently returned from a trip to the U.K. that was supposed to be a journey to trace my my mother and father’s roots, but turned out to be a perfect example of the best-laid plans often going awry. This all started last February when I met a young man from Yorkshire, England, while visiting my favourite hostel in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, with my boys. Dylan had asked George where he was from in England and when George replied Yorkshire, Dylan followed up with, “Where in Yorkshire?”. When George answered, “Ripon”, Dylan responded, “Oh, that’s where my grandfather’s family is from.” Which was news to me. I always thought my dad’s family was from Nottinghamshire. Apparently, my sister-in-law Joanne had started an ancestry search and discovered his family was from Ripon in Yorkshire. Cool. So when my friend Anthony invited me to spend a week or so at his place in Crete, I thought, why not stop by the UK on the way home and make a pilgrimage to Ripon, which is situated in the northwest of England. But before heading to Ripon, I thought it would be a good idea to start in London where my family had lived from 1962 to 1964. My dad served in the Canadian navy and had just been stationed to London. I was less than a year old at the time and made the journey across the pond with my then five-year-old brother Michael and our mother. While in London, we lived in the Kenil-
Keeping our roads safe requires our full attention
New school year calls for a commitment to road safety
It is an exciting time for community growth! We are seeing multiple major investments across our neighbourhood, with numerous road and pathway resurfacing projects underway right across Orléans. These upgrades mean smoother drives, safer pathways, and better-connected routes that will serve us for years to come. However, as these enhancements continue, our streets and pathways are about to get much busier. With students heading back to class and more residents returning to the office this fall, we will see a vibrant surge in daily activity. Whether it is children walking to school, cyclists on the pathways, or commuters on the road, community safety must be our top priority.
It’s hard to believe we’re already talking a role to play in making the trip to and from about back to school. Summer always seems school a safe one. to fly by, and before we know it, backpacks Back to school also brings a renewed energy to our community. are packed, lunches are being made and our streets are Our schools are an important part of the comonce again filled with stuTim dents heading to class. munity and throughout Tierney Back to school is an excitthe year I have the oping time for families, but it portunity to visit classalso means all of us need to Beacon Hill-Cyrville Ward 11 rooms, meet students and see the incredible adjust our routines and pay a work being done by teachers, staff and vollittle extra attention on the road. Over the coming weeks, school zones will unteers. Their dedication helps create welbecome much busier. Students will be walk- coming places where young people can learn, ing, biking and taking the bus, often during grow and build connections. the same morning rush when many of us are To all the students heading back to class, heading to work. Please slow down, follow whether you’re starting kindergarten, entering posted speed limits and give yourself a few your final year of high school or somewhere extra minutes. A small change behind the in between, I hope you have a fantastic year wheel can make a big difference in keeping ahead. Work hard, ask questions, try something new and most importantly, enjoy it. everyone safe. To our teachers, school staff, crossing It’s also a good time to remind students and families to use designated crossings whenev- guards, bus drivers, volunteers and parents, er possible and to make sure drivers can see thank you for everything you do to help our you before stepping onto the road. We all have students succeed.
Because many of these resurfacing projects will still be active as fall traffic ramps up, extra caution is essential. This reminder follows a recent incident in our community where a construction worker was struck in a hit-and-run on site. No one should ever be put at risk simply for doing their job. Whether you are dropping off your kids, cycling to school, or commuting to the office, please slow down, stay alert, and use extra care in work zones. Follow flaggers, obey posted signage, and respect reduced speed limits. These measures keep everyone safe. As summer begins to give way to fall, I want to wish everyone heading back to the classroom a wonderful start to the school year.
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Battle for mayor shaping up to be a three-horse race The city’s light rail system has been plagued with problems for the past four years, leading to a loss in public confidence and the inability for ridership levels to get anywhere near where they were pre-pandemic. Leiper says his first priority if elected mayor would be to get the O-Train back on track, including the completion of Phase 2 of the LRT expansion which continues to face delays that have gone on for over a year. “You feel it in ways that are hard to ignore,” says Leiper. “A bus that doesn’t show up. A trip across the city that takes twice as long as it used to. A service that used to be there and now isn’t. Costs going up while reliability goes down. None of these things on their own define a city, but together they start to change how people live in it.” Leiper is running because he thinks he can do better. Meanwhile, Sutcliffe is running for a second term because he wants to build on the successes the city has achieved over the past four years in the areas of public safety, and maintaining reliable municipal services will keeping user fees and property taxes in check.
Fall service improvements start August 30 Learn more: octranspo.com/YourRide 613-560-5000
According to Sutcliffe’s election website, he wants voters to support his desire to keep the city moving in the right direction while protecting affordability, making city services more reliable, making it easier to get around the city, and protecting and strengthening the Mark Sutcliffe local economy. Sutcliffe is also quick to point out that he wasn’t around when the plan was put in place and the deals were made to build Ottawa’s light rail system. He inherited the problem from his predecessor Jim Watson and the former city council. Under his leadership, Ottawa worked out a deal with the provincial government under which the province assumes ownership and the long-term maintenance of Ottawa’s LRT through Metrolinx. The deal frees up $85 million by removing a huge amount of the debt associated with the LRT. It also eliminates any future risk to local taxpayers.
Besides Leiper, five other people have thrown their hat into the ring to run against Sutcliffe. Alex Lawson, is looked at as the next best beat to unseat the mayor, at least according to recent polling. According to a Liaison Strategies poll conducted in July, Sutcliffe is the front runner with 24 per cent support while Leiper and Lawson both trail by seven points at 17 per cent. The rest of the field is well back Alex Lawson in the single digits while 34 per cent of respondents said the were undecided. A carpenter by trade, Lawson launched his own company Capital Framers Inc, which specializes in building custom homes. You can find his campaign website at votealex.ca. The other candidates in the running for the mayor’s job as of press time are Neil Saravanamuttoo, Zed Chebib, Peter Westaway and Suraj Harish.
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7 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
By Fred Sherwin The Orléans Star After four years running the city, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe is hoping that his record of keeping Ottawa safe, affordable and reliable will get him elected to a second term. Six people are in the running to prevent Sutcliffe from getting re-elected, but only one has any real chance of pulling it off. Jeff Leiper has represented Kitchissippi Ward on city council for the past 12 years. He was first elected in 2014, and was easily reelected in both 2018 and 2022. He is running for the top job out of a desire to get the city back on track, especially when it Jeff Leiper comes to pubic transit in general and the O-Train in particular. When it comes to Sutcliffe’s claim of making Ottawa more reliable, Leiper says the mayor has utterly failed as far as public transit is concerned.
THE TRAIN THAT WILL DELIVER ON LOCAL COMMITMENTS High-speed rail and agriculture coexist all over the world, yet we know a major infrastructure project like Alto can have a real impact on farmers’ day-to-day lives. That’s why our approach to agricultural land is built on proven international models designed to minimize disruption and protect livelihoods.
8 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
Our commitments are clear: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Reduce impact at the source Prioritize negotiated agreements Provide long-term compensation Preserve local mobility Invest in agricultural vitality
Learn more about our approach to agricultural land. For illustration purposes only
Registration now open for Ottawa School of Art’s fall courses By Jody Maffett The Orléans Star Registration is now open for the Ottawa School of Art’s fall classes at both the downtown campus on George Street and the Orléans campus on the main floor of the Shenkman Arts Centre. Classes at both campuses begin on Saturday. Sept. 12, meaning prospective students are encouraged to register as soon as possible. CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AGED 6-12 YEARS Children between the ages of six and eight are encouraged to take the Paint, Play and Create! classes which is designed for young artists to explore a variety of art techniques, including drawing, painting, and crafting.
Kids age 5-7 can take the Animals from A to Z! class in which they learn how to draw various animals while going on a safari from A to Z. Other classes include: Cartoon Drawing and Storytelling for kids age 6-9; Ready Player One: Draw Your Own Adventure for kids age 9-12; and Multi Media Creations for kids age 9-13. Classes are two-to-three hours long and tuition fees include all materials. CLASSES FOR OLDER CHILDREN AND TEENS The Ottawa School of Art also offers classes for older children as well as teens. These classes encourage students to focus their attention and develop patience using a
narrower range of techniques while having fun. Courses this fall include Creative Drawing Essentials for teens age 13-17; Intro to the Art of Experimental Drawing for student age 16-20; and Teen Portfolio: Drawing Focuss in which teens age 16-19 will be able to create a portfolio of drawings using graphite, charcoal, and pen and ink. There is also a Visual Arts Porfolio class and a class in which students age 13-15 work collaboratively to create, plan and illustrate a graphic novel with graphite pencil and coloured pencils. CLASSES FOR ADULTS The Ottawa School of Art offers a number of classes for adults and seniors at three levels of instruction – introductory,
intermediate and advanced based on the individual’s abilities and experience. Courses are available in drawing, painting, printmaking, digital photography, mixed media and sculpture, as well as a number of special interest and short courses. You can get a full run-down on all the classes, including dates and pricing at registration.artottawa.ca.
FALL ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS, KIDS & TEENS OF ALL LEVELS
COURS D’ART D’AUTOMNE
Explorez la peinture, la céramique, le dessin, la gravure et bien plus encore. Orléans Campus
Shenkman Arts Centre 245 Centrum Blvd. osao.info@artottawa.ca 613-580-2765
Caravela Restaurante will be closed from Aug. 3 to Aug. 25 to give our staff a well-deserved break. 3712 Innes Rd. • 613-424-9200 • caravelarestaurante.ca
9 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
Explore painting, ceramics, drawing, printmaking & more.
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POUR ADULTES, ENFANTS ET ADOS DE TOUS NIVEAUX
Orléans couple played an integral role in building Orléans Special to the Orléans Star By Monique DesLauriers In June 2026, we learned of the passing of a couple from the village of Orléans, Bertrand and Réjeanne DesLauriers, who were both pillars of Orléans’ recreational activities from 1965 to the mid-80s. Bertrand (Bert) passed away at the age of 91 on June 7, and his wife Réjeanne joined him 20 days later, on June 27, at the age of 89. Their passing leaves a great void, but they have left a beautiful legacy and strong family values to the villagers. During their life together, Bert and Réjeanne raised five children, Bernard, Johanne, Monique, Jean, and Diane in their home on Rocque Street which Bert built himself in 1965. The couple also played an integral role in making Orleans the community it is today. In 1968, Bert and his friends
founded the Orléans Minor Hockey League, which was the first organized minor hockey league in the area. Bert was also a founding member of the Gloucester Hockey Association and for several years, served on what was then the Gloucester Recreation Committee with the late Fred Barrett. Bert also served as president of the Orléans Recreation Commission, from 1971 to 1976, while Réjeanne served as secretary It goes without saying that Bert and Réjeanne’s greatest achievement was the Orléans Winter Carnival which was held on the grounds of École Préseault, and a few years later at École intermédiaire Léo D. Côté. Almost all of Orléans’ residents, local associations, and people from neighbouring communities attended. One of Réjeanne’s major pro-
jects was organizing the parade, which included floats, majorettes and marching bands. She was also responsible for the Bonhomme Carnaval costume and the outfit worn by the carnival queen. The identity of the person behind the Bonhomme Carnaval costume was a closely guarded secret within the DesLauriers family. Their children felt very lucky to know who was behind the costume until the unveiling, which took place on the last day of the carnival, coinciding with the crowning of the carnival queen. Réjeanne also dedicated herself to organizing additional community activities for the youth of Orléans including movie nights in the basement of Paroisse St-Joseph. In addition, Bert became president of the Community Centre Committee, and the family handled the Centre’s reservations for several years. The reservation book was
Bertrand “Bert” DesLauriers
Réjeanne DesLauriers
kept next to the family phone, and all the children knew how to record the bookings. In 1977, the Orléans Chamber of Commerce recognized Bertrand’s contributions to the youth of Orléans by naming him Citizen of the Year. In his acceptance speech, he quickly acknowledged Réjeanne’s
tremendous work in organizing all the activities. Together, they made a significant contribution to Orléans’ recreational life.
Bert and Réjeanne were much more than just citizens. They were true pillars of the Orléans community and will be dearly missed.
PORTES OUVERTES Dimanche 13 septembre de 13 h à 16 h
OPEN HOUSE 10 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
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Pour vivre pleinement tous les jours !
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613-688-8281 | 150 Rossignol Dr, Orléans PromenadeSeniorsApartments.ca Vous recherchez d’autres options de soins ? Rendez-vous sur PromenadeRetirement.ca Looking for more care options? Visit PromenadeRetirement.ca
Orléans gymnastics club offers instruction exclusively en français With school scheduled to resume next week, the club will be offering day sessions for kids aged four and up during PD days. The day-long sessions are a great way to introduce your children to the sport of gymnastics which has benefits beyond the physical fitness component. It helps build self-esteem, enhances flexibility, posture and coordination, develops social skills and best of all it’s fun. The club also offers a number of camps during the winter break and the March Break and it’s a great place to organize a birthday party with a session of gymnastics and games for all the guests. You can have access to the club’s party room to enjoy birthday cake, play games and open gifts. Birthday parties are held on Saturdays and Sundays and include one of hour of gymnastics with one of their certified coaches. Gymnastics is an excellent cross-training activity for most team sports. Strength,
Gymnastics enhances strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Plus it’s a great way to make new friends. FILE PHOTO coordination, and flexibility are all great things learned through gymnastics that will help a child in the other athletic sports.
You can learn more about the club and the programs they offer by visiting www.sittelles.ca.
11 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
By Fred Sherwin The Orléans Star Established in 1980, the Les Sittelles Gymnastics Club is the only Frenchspeaking gymnastics club in the region. An accredited member of the Ontario Gym nastics Federation (GO), the club offers recreational, pre-competitive and competitive artistic gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling programs in French for kids two years old and up. Their dynamic team of coaches are GO and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) certified. The club’s fall session begins on Sept. 8. The recreation program includes miniacrobat classes for children 2 to 6 years old; artistic gymnastics for kids 6 to 14 years old; and trampoline & tumbling for kids age six years old and over. Les Sittelles also has a competitive women’s artistic gymnastics program as well as a competitive trampoline and tumbling program.
A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS
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BUILDING NEW JAILS Learn how we’re protecting the province at ontario.ca/SaferOntario Paid for by the Government of Ontario
Orléans authors publish pair of books for summer reading By Jody Maffett The Orléans Star One of Orléans best-kept secrets is that it is home to a number of accomplished authors in a variety of genres. The last authors to publish their work are Anna Maria Cervo and Anthony Ezisi . Cervo is an elementary school teacher whose first book is called Celeste’s Journey: Beyond Becoming a Butterfly, a 40-page illustrated story about Celeste, a curious young caterpillar who wanders away from home in search of a better place. Along the way, she meets new friends and a older monarch butterfly named Grace. Celeste can’t wait to grow wings like Grace and fly freely through the open sky. But when she learns about metamorphosis, she becomes anxious about the daunting trans-
formation she must undergo first. The book introduces young readers to the remarkable life cycle of a monarch butterfly while exploring themes of friendship, courage, resilience and selfdiscovery. Cervo is proud that Celeste’s Journey has found a place in schools, libraries, mental health organizations, children’s hospitals and palliative care facilities. She hopes to inspire others to embark on their own journey of selfdiscovery. The book can be purchased at indigo.ca. Anthony Ezisi’s debut science fiction novel is entitled The Chosen of the North: Book 1 : Roots of Destiny. The science fiction drama transforms the neighbourhoods of Orléans into the backdrop of a futuristic battle over artificial intel-
ligence, algorithmic bias and human connection through the immigrant experience.
Drawing heavily on his own experience as an immigrant and with a professional background in engineering, research, and project management, Ezisi’s gripping first installment of a planned tetralogy explores the heavy price of building a better world. Fans of hard science fiction, coming-of-age dramas, and speculative fiction will find The Chosen of the North incredibly engaging. The novel strongly appeals to readers who crave thought-provoking stories that tackle timely, real-world issues – such as AI ethics, algorithmic prejudice, and the complexities of the immigrant experience – without sacrificing profound
emotional depth. Readers will want to invest their time in this book because it offers a fiercely original narrative that seamlessly bridges West African Igbo heritage with Canadian Arctic lore. It transforms the familiar landscape of Ottawa and Orléans into a thrilling, futuristic battleground, challenging its audience to reflect on humanity’s relationship with technology and
the sacrifices required to build a better future. The Chosen of the North: Book 1 : Roots of Destiny is now available for purchase on Amazon, Kobo, Indigo and several other major book retail outlets.
WWW.SPRINGLIVING.CA
Spring Living Retirement Communities Presents Date: August 21, 2026 Time: 11:30 - 1:00 PM Join us for an afternoon of great food & fun with 100% of the proceeds being donated to Montfort Hospital Foundation!
370 Kennedy Lane E, Orléans 613-830-2633
6419 Lumberman Way, Orléans 613-837-1100
1510 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans 343-961-1332
1345 Ogilvie Road Gloucester 613-742-6524
480 Metcalfe St. Ottawa 613-617-7888
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FUNdraising Barbeque
Registration now open for City rec and arts programs By Fred Sherwin The Orléans Star Registration for the City of Ottawa’s fall recreation and arts programs is now open for all recreation and cultural fall activities, including PA days and winter camps. Enjoy a wide range of recreational and cultural activities in both English and French at the City’s art studios, museums, parks, play structures and indoor and outdoor features including rinks, sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, pools and gymnasiums. Dive into a swim class Learn to swim or brush up on your aquatic skills by registering for one of the City’s many swimming programs. Classes for individuals looking to achieve or upgrade their lifesaving certifications to become a lifeguard and instructor are also available.
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Embrace the arts Discover your artistic side by signing up for an arts program at Shenkman Arts Centre and enrolling in a specialized program delivered by professional instructors.
Explore science and technology Enrich your mind and explore your curiosity by registering for a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) or STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) program. Learn hands-on skills like Technic building, engineering principles, teamwork and organization. Attend virtually Want to stay active but can’t attend in person? Choose from a wide range of virtual fitness, arts, cooking classes and many more activities. The City also offers hybrid activities where you can choose to attend in-person or participate from the comfort of your home. Before registering for a recreation, arts and culture program you must first create an account at register.ottawa.ca. To do so you will need to include your email address and create a password. Next, add your family members and be sure to save your credit card information. Adding these details in advance will make checking out much easier. Once your account is set up, you can
The City of Ottawa’s fall recreation, arts and culture programs literally has something for everyone, no matter how old you are, including cooking classes, aquafitness classes and pottery classes. FILE PHOTOS register for your favourite program right away or bookmark your preferred activities in a wish list for quick retrieval and register at a later time. To help decide which program to you would like to participate in, you can explore
activities on register.ottawa.ca using sort filters, like time and day, age group, and language. You can also use the map function to look at options beyond your local area. Be sure to bookmark a few activities just in case your first choice is full.
IN MEMORIAM
COMMUNITY BILLBOARD THURSDAY, AUG. 20 ORLÉANS FARMERS’ MARKET from 11 am to 4 pm in the Orléans Town Centre Plaza, 290 Centrum Blvd. Browse 130+ local vendors, grab a bite, and discover amazing handmade and local finds. Plenty of parking available. CORN ROAST AND BBQ hosted by Orléans MP MarieFrance Lalonde and MPP Stephen Blais near the nature centre on Petrie Island. Hot dogs, corn and refreshments with live entertainment from 5 p.m. FRIDAY, AUG. 21 LIVE MUSIC at the Orléans Legion featuring Divided Highway from 7-11 p.m. Everyone welcome. The Orléans Legion is located at 800 Taylor Creek Dr. in the Taylor Creek Business Park.
SATURDAY, AUG. 22 CUMBERLAND FARMERS’ MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with a variety of local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION. QUEENSWOOD HEIGHTS FAMILY FUN DAY & MUSIC FESTIVAL from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Queenswood Ridge Park, 346 Kennedy Lane. BBQ. Drinks. Bouncy Castles. Live Music. Games. Prizes. Beer Garden. CARDINAL CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MOVIE NIGHT featuring the movie from Zootopia 2 starting at 7 p.m. in Glandriel Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, gather your
family and friends, and enjoy a great night under the stars with your neighbours. It’s sure to be a fantastic community event!. SUNDAY, AUG. 23 COMMUNITY COOK OUT from 3-10 p.m. at 255 Centrum Blvd, thanks to The Heart of Orléans BIA, Solé and Ooh - Music, Arts & Streetwear Festival. The event is free, but you’ll need to RSVP at orleanscookout.eventbrite.ca. MONDAY, AUG. 24 TRIVIA NIGHT from 7:30 p.m. every Monday night at the Royal Oak Pub Orléans. Free to play. Prizes for the winning team! The Royal Oak Pub is located at 1981 St. Joseph Blvd. near Jeanne d’Arc. For more info visit facebook.com/ RoyalOakPubsOrleans.
Jean Faucher, 64 Passed away on July 29, 2026 Conrad Drouin, 89 Passed away on July 29, 2026 Richard Sicotte, 76 Passed away on July 25, 2026
www.heritagefh.ca/obituaries
BUSINESS DIRECTORY LAWN CARE
PAINTING
CANINE SERVICES
CARPENTER & HANDYMAN Experienced carpenter and general handyman at your service! Over 35 years of experience • Home Repair and Maintenance • Small Engine Repair • Wood Working Services
Call Norm @ 613 913-6771 E-mail: normlap2591@gmail.com
INSULATION SERVICES
WINDOWS & GLASS
CHURCH LISTING
Attic Insulation is for warm weather too!
YOUR ONE STOP GLASS SHOP COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
Church of God International Canada
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M GREER GLASS SOLUTIONS
Please come and join us in worship and fellowship
Weekly Sabbath Services (Saturday) at 1:00 p.m.
DO YOU NEED PRAYER? PLEASE EMAIL US.
Please call or email for location 613-416-1533 or info@cgiottawa.ca
www.cgiottawa.ca
CHURCH LISTING
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Our team has been providing outstanding insulation services to Ottawa residents for over 10 years! Contact us today for assistance and advice. Call 613-702-8374 for your FREE insulation quote today.
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OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:
Replacement of thermal panes • Custom showers Repair & replace hardware on windows Custom glass railings • Cut to size glass & mirrors Repair damaged screens & fabricate new screen frames
1241 Cousineau St., Orléans (613) 715-3856 or (613) 824-2664 Website: www.mggs.ca Email: Marty@mggs.ca
Orleans Seventh-Day Adventist Church Please join us on Sabbaths for worship and fellowship Saturdays: Sabbath School @ 9:30 and Divine worship @ 11:00 a.m. Location: Grace Presbyterian Church 1220 Old Tenth Line Rd. • 613-834-9638
15 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
KITCHEN RENOVATIONS
Hello! PORTES OUVERTES 16 • AUGUST 20, 2026 • VOLUME 40, NO. 10
Dimanche 13 septembre de 13 h à 16 h
OPEN HOUSE Sunday, September 13 • 1-4pm
BELCOURT
613-841-2079 1344 Belcourt Blvd, Orléans VenviBelcourt.ca
HÉRITAGE
613-741-1257 624 Wilson St, Ottawa VenviHeritage.ca
PORTOBELLO
613-824-6909 691 Valin St, Orléans VenviPortobello.ca
Pour vivre pleinement tous les jours !
Live life to the fullest everyday! PROMENADE SENIORS’ APARTMENTS
613-688-8281 150 Rossignol Dr, Orléans PromenadeSeniorsApartments.ca