Focus on
The Mural VOL. 24 NO. 4 WEDNESDAY, May 1, 2019 • 75¢ incl. HST
Mother’s Day
See Page 8
Focus on
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Focus on
Red Canoefest Gardening See Page 10
See Page 9
Athens District High School students recently walked out in protest to the proposed government changes to education. See story and photo page 7.
Easter at the Rockport Rec Hall Story and photo by Catherine Orth
Finnley, 2 (L) with sister Paisley Allen, 4 (far R) with TLTI Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke, at the Rockport Easter Egg Hunt on April 20, 2019.
Meg Mallory, Tracy Smith and the other volunteers of the Rockport Rec Hall aren't saints, nor are they the Easter Bunny, but they're something pretty close. On the Saturday before Easter Sunday they did just about everything that could be done to organize and create Easter fun for kids. The rainy weather didn't keep the community away. It poured outside, however the Easter Egg Hunt and the Parade still took place when the rain let up. Although the lovely Easter decorated carts and buggies were temporarily abandoned, inside the Rec Hall the action hopped along undeterred with the room abuzz with excited little ones. Spring pastels of pink, blue and green balloons lightened the hall. There were arts and crafts tables aplenty, with kids engaged in decorating eggs, creating Easter rabbit ears, and decorating cupcakes. Everyone was having tremendous fun and the day finished with a hot dog lunch. Parents loved the event too, and some families return each year as part of their family Easter tradition.
Page 2 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
The Mural EVENTS
Community Event notices are published free for non-profit organizations courtesy of The Mural and these sponsors:
Tackaberry & SonS
conSTrucTion co. LTd. Burt Hudson Real Estate Ltd Brokerage Justin Hudson, Broker of Record Burt Hudson, Broker Tracie Hudson, Sales Representative Your Hometown Realtor www.burthudson.com
Howard Campbell & SonS
Septic Tank Services & Portables
613 342-6105
Howard
Full Service Travel Agency
Ongoing Events Athens Heritage Trivia Night
Every third Tuesday at JJs. 7pm, Half-price wings. Great prizes! Sign up at the diner or on facebook. $15 for a team of 3.
Genealogy Drop-In
sponsored by Leeds & Grenville Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society at 5 Henry Street, Brockville (Brockville Museum). Drop in from 10am-noon Wednesday, May 1 and 15. Members of the local Branch will be on hand to help you. Free event. All welcome!
The Athens Museum
Open every Saturday morning from 9 - 12. Stop in to see displays or visit our archives of local history. Looking for hosts for old school house memories. Like us on facebook.
Spring Rummage Sale
St. Luke’s Anglican church, 459 Lyndhurst Rd., is holding its huge, annual spring rummage sale from May 29 to June 1. Doors open daily at 10 am. Wed. & Thurs. till 4 pm, Fri. till 6 pm, and Sat. till 2 pm. A huge variety of items, all at bargain prices!
SATURDAY, MAY 4 Yard Sale,
Lyndhurst United Church, 9am- 3pm. Large indoor sale! Featuring $1 to $5 tables. Hundreds of brand new items plus some gently used: housewares, fishing, camping,
Dale Howard 924-2720 or 342-4791 www.howardtravel.ca
small tools, electrical & misc. hardware, toys etc. Portion of sale proceeds to aid L.U.C.
Introduction to Harness & Driving
Brought to you by The Leeds County Draft Horse Club at the Lombardy Fair Grounds. (Rain date May 5th) Registration for this full-day “hands on” event is $25, includes handouts and light lunch. Registration limited to 40. For registration or info contact call 613-345-1287 or dburns24@cogeco.ca.
Women’s Spring Breakfast
Cedar Valley in Forthton. Jan Saunders is speaking on a Mother’s Day theme: “Foundations.” Buffet Breakfast $10, begins at 8:30am. Reservations: Marie, 613-9249032 by May 1. Invite a Friend! Donations will go to support World Hope.
Sunday, May 5 Soup Lunch
St. Andrew’s United Church, Toledo at noon. Homemade soups, sandwiches, desserts and beverage. Free-will offering. Everyone is welcome!
Spring Sit-Down Dinner
Christ Anglican Church, Athens, 4-6:30pm. Ham and meatballs, scalloped potatoes, baked beans, salads, pie, etc. Adults, $13, children 6-12, $4, under 6 free. Take outs available! All welcome!
Dance
At Toledo Legion, fea-
turing Jamie Forsythe. Doors open at 1pm and dancing is from 2-5pm followed by a hot supper. Cost is $15.
THURSDAY, MAY 9 Rockport Redeemer Café
2 Front Street, 10:30am, Thursday, May 9. Guest Speaker: Bonnie Park. Topic: Colombia: Past and Present. Coffee and Treats, Everyone welcome.
SATURDAY, MAY 11 Annual Plant Sale
Spring is here! Yonge in Bloom’s Annual Plant Sale, 8 am to 11 am at the Recreation Park at the west end of Peryl Road in Mallorytown. Perennials, annuals, trees, herbs, veggies and garden knick-knacks. Cash only. Refreshments available, served by Junetown Women’s Institute. Contact Catherine Blatch at 613-923-1571 for more information.
Mother’s Day Supper
5:30pm in Frankville Church Hall. Ham & meatballs, hot & cold buffet, homemade pies & desserts. Adults, $15, children 6 -12, $4, children 5 & under, free. Advance tickets only, call 613-284-0307 or 613-924-9465. Takeout is available. Sponsored by Anglican Parish of Kitley ACW.
MONDAY, MAY 13 May meeting of Leeds & Grenville branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society, 7:30 pm at the Brockville Museum. Our speaker will be Catherine Paterson, PhD. Topic: Cemetery and Monument Conservation. Find out how to research your ancestors! All welcome.
Thursday, May 16 Spring Meeting and Lunch
Retired Women Teachers of Ontario Gananoque Branch invites all retired women teachers to attend at The Junction Restaurant, Hwy 15/32. Business Meeting will take place at 11am, lunch at 12 noon. Cost $20/person. For more info and to register, call Joan Gamble at 613-928-2427 by Friday May 10. Join us for friendship, food and
fun! Bring a friend.
Potluck Lunch
Kitley Elders invite you to join us at Newbliss Church Hall at noon. Spiritual devotion & fellowship will follow, then an informational segment. Our guest this month will be Sandra Barr, OPP officer, speaking about ‘Financial & Fraud Awareness & Prevention.’ All welcome. For more info or transportation call Katherine @ 613-275-2140.
SATURDAY, MAY 18 Annual Plant Sale
8:30am – 12pm, 415 Lyndhurst Rd (by Wings Live Bait and Tackle), Lyndhurst. Fundraiser for the Lyndhurst Rejuvenation Committee. Accepting plant donations (can be brought morning of the sale, or contact 613928-2930 or jdjolliffe@ brucetelecom.com)
Annual Plant Sale
Lansdowne Association for Revitalization presents the 10th Annual Plant Sale from 8am to 2pm at the Lansdowne Fairgrounds. Huge selection of healthy homegrown plants to choose from. For information contact LAFR at lafr@ 1000island.net.
SUNDAY, MAY 19 Roast Beef Dinner
Odd Fellows Hall, 23 Main St., Lyn, from 46pm. Take-out available.
THURSDAY, MAY 23 6:30-9pm. Guest speaker at the Thousand Islands Quilters’ Guild (TIQG) will be the acclaimed quilt designer, Paul Leger, speaking on his “Journey in Quilting.” See his amazing quilts. Members and guests welcome to attend at 6:30pm at the Brockville Legion, upstairs hall. Please bring non-perishable items for our semi-annual Brockville and Area Food Bank food drive. Show & Tell will highlight members’ beautiful creations and the Library will loan books & magazines to members. $30/year, $5/ guest At Brockville Legion, 180 Park Street, Brockville (Upstairs).Contact Deidre 613-803-8373. www.thousandislandsquiltersguild.com
Happening at Athens Public Library Book and Plant Sale Sat. May 11, 8am noon. Pokemon Club Wednesday, May 15, 6:30pm Toddler Time Thursday mornings at 10:00am LEGO Club Friday, May 3 and May 10, 7pm BookClub Wednesday, May 29, 6:30pm
Saturday, May 25 Country & Western Jamboree
Toledo Legion. Doors open at 12:30pm and dancing is from 2-6pm followed by a hot supper. Featuring Harry Adrain & Friends, Dennis Whittiker This Old Heart & Country Comrades, Jamie Forsyth Good n’ Country, Cheryl Adrain Dermann. Tickets $20 advance or $25 at the door until sold out. For tickets call Greg 613275-7228 or Linda 613349-8889.
Garage, Plant and Bake Sale
9am-noon, St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Caintown Rd. (Just north of Mallorytown). Something for everyone. Please no early birds.
Spidey “Make Believe – magic for your mind”
Joshua Bates Centre stage (1 Main Street) Athens. 8-10:30pm. $30/ticket. Suitable for ages 8+.
SATURDAY, JUNE 1 Gently Used Spring/ Summer Clothing Bazaar
10am-1pm, Gananoque & District Humane Society, 85 Hwy 32, just north of Gananoque and the 401. You can try things on! Cash only. Rain date June 8. All funds go to animals in our no-kill shelter. Contact: Arlene, arleneamassey@gmail.com, 613-923-1953.
Happening at Addison Church 9007 County Rd. 29 in Addison. Call 613-924-9852 for more details Morning coffee break May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, from 8-10:30 am. Enjoy a cup of Fair Trade Coffee with a Willards donut and sometimes a home baked treat, conversation and laughter. Everyone welcome. Mother’s Day Tea Saturday May 11th, 2-4pm, in the church hall. Featuring tea room, crafts, bake sale, “older treasures.” An evening of friendly euchre May 11. Begins at 6pm with a light meal. Games start at 7pm. $5 per person. All skill levels welcome. Simple Fare Luncheon May 16, 11:30-12:30. A home-cooked meal in a friendly atmosphere for those who would normally eat alone. Donations accepted but not expected. Games Night May 18. An alternative to sitting at home alone on a Saturday night, beginning at 6pm with the sharing of a potluck meal. Come try one of our games or bring your own to share as we are always looking for new games.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12 Oak Leaf Church Social 4:30-6:30pm. Ham,
scalloped potatoes, baked beans, salads etc., homemade pies! Drive-thru Takeout. Adults $15, 6-12 yrs $5, under 6 free. 107 Holy Trinity Rd., Athens, 924-2797 or 924-2256.
SATURDAY, JULY 13 Yonge in Bloom Annual Hidden Garden Tour
18th annual garden tour in Front of Yonge from 9am to 3pm. Wide range of gardens to explore between Rockport and Mallorytown. Lunch included at Mallorytown Community Centre 76 County Road 5. Tickets at Purcell’s Freshmart, the Brockville Tourism Office on Market Street, or by calling 613-923-5159.
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 3
Mayor of Leeds and the Thousand Islands reflects on six months in Office Interview conducted by Catherine Orth Being Mayor of Leeds and the Thousand Islands is a job in itself. Add in a successful mortgage brokerage, two young active sons, a husband and you might wonder how Corinna Smith-Gatcke gets 'er done. “My family has been great. My mom has been a tremendous support. She's made a lot of meals, and she's done a lot of laundry,” said Smith-Gatcke, with an appreciative smile. I asked the Mayor how she felt about her new job, and where she thought she and Council were at after 6 months in office. “I think we've made good strides,” she said. Building trust, or rebuilding trust as she called it, was big on the Mayor's agenda. “I feel the staff was previously uneasy as there was a lot of upheaval and uncertainty. I wanted the staff to feel comfortable and to know that I was approachable and that they had access to me,” she said. She explained that they weathered some difficult times at the beginning, going through some administrative changes with the departure of CAO Greg Borduas. “For a couple of weeks I was not only Mayor but acting CAO as well. Then, we hired our new CAO, Steven Potter, and that alleviated a lot of stress. Once we got into a rhythm with him things started to move along. He's working diligently to keep us moving in the right direction and not spinning our wheels.” Smith-Gatcke said that initially the Council was under fire for a lack of transparency. “This Council is very good at getting information from the senior
The Mayor, Corinna Smith-Gatcke with her mom, Rona, attending the Easter Egg Hunt at the Rockport Rec Hall, April 20, 2019. Photo by Catherine Orth.
management team, the CAO, the Director of Operations, Planning, Economic Development, the Clerk's department and Treasury. We get answers from them before Council meetings. And then, those answers are openly discussed at Council. I don't think it's realistic to expect us to record all those conversations.” Regarding the $632,082.00 grant recently awarded to the township from the Government of Ontario, administered by the Minister of Municipal Affairs, Steve Clark, she said, “It's important that we spend this money wisely. It would be naive to think that provincial funding in
the future could not be on the chopping block.” “The Ontario Municipal fund may be less in the future. It's important to maintain a responsible budget by reducing spending and finding efficiencies,” she said. Regarding the tax rate stabilization fund, Smith-Gatcke said, “In 2016 the council of the day and the staff of the day recommended that the tax rate stabilization fund be collapsed. This fund was put in place originally so that if the casino ever left and those transfer payments ceased, there would be a reserve so we wouldn't have to jack up the tax
rate all in one move.” “We felt that it was important to put it back in place. I never want to be in a position where we are dependent on the casino. We can't assume that the casino will be around forever. For me it's very important that we utilize those funds so that they have an ongoing benefit to the residents of the Township.” Regarding the budget, Smith-Gatcke said, “The budget took us a little extra time to put through, but that was because there were questions in regards to different line items. We didn't feel that we wanted to support a 4.07% increase. The operation increase ended up being only 2.81%. We added an additional 0.5% for the tax rate stabilization reserve that we're putting back into place.” Regarding possible housing development in the future she said “We hope there will be an increase in housing in the village. We know if those houses were built, they'd sell.” Smith-Gatcke noted that the water tower that must be re-painted now, to abide by new standards and codes, will be financed by a reserve that was put in place 10 years ago. “We are very fortunate that that happened. We don't have to go looking for that money.” The pavilion at Jerry Park will soon be constructed, adding another feature to the already popular splash pad/skateboard park, she said.. Honouring legendary Councillor, Harold Emmons, who died in November 29, 2017, the new Council approved the naming of Harold Emmons Way. “There will be a street between the recreation building and the ball diamond and this will be named for Harold,” she said.
Page 4 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
The Mural FORUM The Mural
Your Community Newspaper
P.O.Box 398, Athens, Ontario, K0E 1B0 Tel: 613-774-3186 • www.themural.on.ca Editorial: editor@themural.on.ca Ad Sales: advertising@themural.on.ca Publisher: Winchester Print & Stationery Editor: Gina Radic Reporters/Photographers: Sally Smid, Catherine Orth, Christopher Lee (Sports) Advertising Manager: Angela Tyhy Production Manager: Patti Moran The Mural is a community newspaper serving Athens, Mallorytown, the Thousand Islands Parkway, Escott, Delta, Lyndhurst, Charleston Lake, Plum Hollow, Addison, Frankville, Toledo, Lyn, RR#3 & RR#4 Brockville and now Elgin, Seeley’s Bay, and Lansdowne. Copies are delivered free of charge to over 9,000 homes courtesy of the community-minded businesses that advertise in The Mural. Copies are also available at selected stores in Athens.
When not teaching or sewing, Wendy can be found cuddling one of her cats or giving the family pig, Rosie, a tummy rub.
Spotlight on
All contents © 2019 The Mural. All articles, photographs and advertisements, etc., created by The Mural may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The Mural is not responsible for errors or omissions. We reserve the right to edit for legal considerations, clarity, grammar, and length.
Wendy Desrocher: Fitness instructor Story and photo by Catherine Orth Wendy Desrocher is a woman of nuance: infectious laughter, intelligent, empathetic, hobby farm owner, accomplished seamstress, passionate animal lover. She is also the fitness instructor from heaven. She understands and knows your deep dark fears. She has the knack and professionalism to put you at ease. “I have always loved movement. I always like dancing; that has been with me since a child. We lived in Trenton, and my older sister, in her teens, found a dance instructor to teach her tap and my sister taught me. I also loved school dances.” By the time Wendy was 25, she was living on a farm in the Lansdowne area with her husband Bob and a family of pets, large and small. She commuted to Kingston to work at Dupont, where she was in research for over 20 years. “Working in research, I think, helped develop me in life. For example, if you did ten experiments and you got one right, you had a sense of achievement; a realization that failure can lead to success. This also helped me enormously in my sewing, as a lot of sewing is about ripping out and re-doing,” she said. When the aerobic craze took off in the early ‘80’s, Wendy attended classes in Kingston after work. “This was great because, now, I could dance and exercise to music.” Shortly after Wendy found a class in Lansdowne and connected with Ruth Ralph. The road to becoming a fitness
instructor began in earnest. Under Ruth’s guidance Wendy started to give some classes and though she found that pretty scary initially, she persisted. In 1984, Wendy participated in the Fitness Ontario Leadership Program, a two weekend intensive training course at Queens, which included some anatomy. “Here, I first started learning about the body,” she said. In 1997 Wendy started her own fitness business. Around that time as well, she got a chance to work part time at the Country Squire Health Club. It had a pool and she began to learn how to teach water classes. “I taught at Country Squire for 14 years. I received my certification for teaching water fitness classes through Water Art International and I am currently certified through them for both water and ground classes.” In addition to all her other certifications and courses, in 2004 Wendy took a three month program with the Canadian Centre for Activity & Aging, in Brockville, to be certified to teach seniors fitness. She has also worked with the Alzheimer Society in Perth to offer an 8 week program at Seeley’s Bay Retirement Home for its residents. Today she teaches three times a week at the community building in Landowne. She teaches a more vigorous routine at 9:30am and a gentler program at 10:4am. Wendy welcomes people to come and try before they sign up. For further information call Wendy at 613-659-2662.
Freemasons of Athens wrap up a busy winter season (Submitted by the Junior Warden of Rising Sun Lodge) The members of Rising Sun Lodge No. 85 wrapped up a long, cold winter with both regular and business meetings in February and March. The District Deputy Grand Master, Mr. Paul Weagle, visited Rising Sun Lodge for his annual inspection, and the 30 members in attendance enjoyed a banquet of roast turkey. Visitation is a large part of Freemasonry and Rising Sun members enjoyed a fraternal visit to McCoy Lodge in the Village of Lyn where they were treated to both a roast beef dinner and a Masonic history lecture. March ended on a high note as the Lodge welcomed its newest member, Mr. Rob Shannon, who was initiated on March 28th (See photo below of some of the mem-
The Next Issue of the Mural is June 5 Ad booking & Copy Deadline Wednesday, May 29
bers who were present). The business meeting in April saw the start of discussions for the schedule of meetings for the duration of the year, which will include educational meetings, the conferring of Masonic degrees and several public events. April wrapped up with our annual fish fry when we received fraternal visits from the members of Otter Lodge from Lombardy, and the members of Alexandria Lodge from Alexandria Bay, New York. The members of Lansdowne Lodge prepared the dinner so that the 32 members present could enjoy the fraternal visit. After dinner the members listened to a historical presentation during the Lodge meeting. For further information on Freemasonry and Rising Sun Lodge please feel free to contact Mr. Giles Loshaw at (613) 924-2112.
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 5
Leeds Heritage Day set to entertain and educate on May 25 Story and photos by Sally Smid Leeds County has a very rich and interesting history! No one is perhaps more excited about that than the Leeds County Heritage Network members who have a real passion for preserving and promoting its past. For over 15 years the group has met together to share ideas and challenges as they support and encourage mutual endeavours. This year the group is cooperating to showcase their respective heritage sites. On May 25, from 10am to 4pm, local history will truly come alive as LCHN announces their first Leeds Heritage Day! A dozen sites will be open without charge. The public is invited to get involved in exploring, interacting, and experiencing our unique area history. Many sites will offer refreshments, a chance to research, and even perhaps contribute to existing archival information. The event is part of a celebration of LCHN’s newly updated website and brochure. Sites include: • The local Genealogical Society in the Brockville Museum, offering free scanning. • The United Empire Loyalists, with an exhibit and research assistance at the Elizabethtown/Kiltley Library on County Road 29 at Spring Valley. • Gananoque’s Thousand Islands History Museum, featuring a Hockey Exhibit that “revisits game-changing moments and players”. • Lyn’s Heritage Place Museum, displaying the history of the area’s industrial past. A blacksmith will provide demonstrations.
• Athens Museum is expanding and invites visitors to interact with a variety of local history displays and archives. The Lions floor upstairs will also be open. • Mallory Coach House in Mallorytown, home of Canada’s 1st Glassworks, offers various displays including that of heroic veteran Tony Kall. • The Customs House, in Rockport’s “Heritage Waterfront Village”, is being renovated. • The Leeds and Thousand Islands Archives and Springfield House in Escott provides a chance to research local history. • The Old Stone Mill in Delta is always a highlight and will have a miller and blacksmith on site. • Elgin Heritage Society invites visitors to tour the Red Brick School and view sports, schools and family displays. • The Lockmaster House Museum at Chaffey’s Lock features displays about Rideau Lakes history and canal life. • Westport’s Rideau District Museum has a wealth of artifacts and history about that region. Leeds Heritage Day offers the chance to explore local interpretive signs, other historical points of interest, and local businesses and eateries in support of our rural economies. LCHN heartily invites individuals and families to come and “take a trip back in time and discover more about our fascinating history” in one of the richest historical regions in Eastern Ontario! Brochures will be available at venues. For more information go to www.leedsheritage.ca
Blacksmiths will be on site at the Old Delta Mill and at Lyn’s Heritage Place Museum on May 25.
Mallorytown is the home of Canada’s first glass works and the Mallory Coach House is home to that display, one of their exhibits for Heritage Day.
GEORGE STREET DENTAL Let’s Smile Together! Dr. Dilpreet Sidhu, DDS 67 George Street, Brockville ON info@georgestdental.ca
Several dozen participants were part of Athens’ annual Walk of the Cross on Good Friday preceding an interdenominational service that included 7 churches. “It was a time to publicly express our faith in a visual way,” commented United Pastor David Steele. “The cross in the Notre Dame Cathedral was found unharmed after the fire. It is a powerful and lasting symbol of Hope!” Photo/caption by Sally Smid.
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A flock of trumpeter swans flew overhead as the annual ecumenical Easter Sunrise Service began in the Athens Cemetery. The majestic birds flew in a V, for “victory over death” any of the 25 assembled could surmise. Spring was in the air, a season of new life, which is so connected to the Easter message, noted Pastor Dan Zylstra. The event included a light breakfast in the United Church. Photo/caption by Sally Smid
Offering complete dental care in a warm and caring environment
Family Dentistry • Aesthetic Dentistry Emergency Care • Dental Implants
Page 6 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019 (L-R) Maple View Auxiliary Chair Freda Schaafsma and Secretary Otie Vanderkloet were among those honoured at the Lodge’s volunteer appreciation event.
Maple View Volunteers were recently honoured at an appreciation tea at the Lodge.
ADHS Prime Minister Claire Baker encouraged her fellow classmates to consider becoming more involved in volunteering in the community.
Rideau Lakes Business Awards Story and photos by Sally Smid The Township of Rideau Lakes Economic Development Committee conducted their 3rd annual Business Recognition Breakfast to honour some of the Municipality’s outstanding local businesses and entrepreneurs on April 5. The event took place at Morton Community Hall and included a complimentary breakfast with goodwill donation going towards improvements at the Morton Hall and for community events. The nominations were judged by individuals from the Town of Smiths Falls and Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporation. Mayor Arie Hoogenboom addressed the audience and spoke of the importance of balanced growth with environmental sustainability. Economic Development Chair Claire Gunnewiek explained her vision for the local economy, noting the need for more job opportunities that would retain more community young people and the importance of locally owned and operated businesses as part of area revitalization initiatives. This year’s Business of the Year Award
went to the Hinton Auto Group for demonstrating a “commitment to the community and its residents, while displaying strong ethics within the business and society”. In accepting the award Hugh Colton, known for his online event promoting interviews, remarked, “We will continue to do our best to tell the stories and to promote and give back to the amazing communities that we call home!” The Business Innovation Award went to Elgin and District Cooperative Nursery School for “demonstrating innovation in enhancing its business and services”. Crystal Scott accepted the award, explaining the beginnings of the childcare business and its plans for expansion. Mark Hales of Hales Excavation and Trucking received the Young Entrepreneur Award to “honour the hard work he has demonstrated as a young businessman” who is part of the Township. Hales gave much credit to his wife in accepting the award. It was truly a time to recognize and celebrate local businesses and their contributions to the local community and consider future possibilities!
Volunteer recognition Story and photos by Sally Smid With Volunteer Recognition Week in April, it was a suitable time to note the value of community volunteers, show appreciation for them and recruit new ones. ADHS Prime Minister Claire Baker, through a Rotary Connect 2 Community initiative, organized a program involving local organizations in Athens. On April 2, the student body heard presentations by representatives from the Athens Library, Museum, Lions, Vacation Bible School and Joshua Bates Centre and Cornfest committees. This prompted a variety of students to consider serving as volunteers in the community. A highlight of the event was an inspirational address by Mayor Herb Scott about the importance of volunteerism in the community. “Without volunteers, Athens would not be what it is today,” he related. He announced that there are about 221 volunteers in Athens including firemen, committee members, sports organizers, Cornfest, Steamfair and Parade volunteers, and many others. There are so many more volunteering through various school, church and club activi-
ties, Lions, lodges, CPHC, to name a few. “It is a feeling of giving back that can’t be explained,” he concluded as he encouraged the students to find meaningful ways to volunteer in the community. On April 12, Maple View Lodge invited volunteers to a “High Tea Luncheon Celebration”. Warden Pat Sayeau thanked the many dedicated volunteers in attendance, commenting “Such a large place as Maple View requires lots of volunteers to help make life better for residents”. Andrew Brown, the Counties’ Chief Administrative Officer, told the assembly that they would be kept informed as the 192 bed expansion proceeds. The new building will be three stories and will include the redevelopment of the present building into independent living housing for seniors and a community hub area. Administrator Linda Chaplain indicated that the first resident is expected to move in by 2022. Warden Sayeau predicted, “With this planned expansion, the need for volunteers, it seems, will triple!” The elegant luncheon and appreciation gifts presented were a special message of gratitude and encouragement to the many volunteers in attendance.
Rockport Spring Art Fair - 2019 Art, music & food in the heart of the Thousand Islands May 18 & 19 – 10am – 4pm For event updates and specifics visit www.tiarts.ca or @tiarts.ca
All of the Rideau Business Award winners and nominees celebrate together at the recent recognition breakfast in Morton. MP Michael Barrett spoke at the recent Rideau Lakes Business Awards Breakfast and noted the importance of “investing in our communities”. He urged “the experts”, the small business owners, to communicate about any concerns.
THE ATHENS FIRE DEPARTMENT’S
Annual
43rd
ANIMAL DANCE
Saturday, June 1, 8 pm to 1 am Centre 76, Henry St, Athens
Live Music by Eastbound of Bytown Midnight Luncheon Animal Prizes and more!
Tickets: $15 per person Call Cheryl Lester 613-213-2419 or Rick VanMourik 613-802-1087 Or cash payment to Township office during office hours Cash payment to Sue at Transfer Station when open
ry
Anniversa
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 7
Students protest in walkout Story and photos by Sally Smid Secondary students in the area walked out of class on the afternoon of Thursday, May 4, joining others across Ontario to protest the Ford government’s proposed changes in education. A demonstration took place in front of Rideau and Athens District High Schools. ADHS Grade 12 student Bailey Giff remarked, “We are a small school, but we don't believe that our voices matter any less!” Another student leader Ashley Loucks expressed her concern about the reduction of OSAP grants. “Many students will not be able to afford to go on to school!” Others disagreed with the proposals for larger class sizes, cuts to music, arts and trades, as well as online courses. The school administration commented that it was “not a school sanctioned event and classes will run as normal
during this time. Suggestions were given to use “other ways for expressing their views rather than losing time in their classrooms”. Students are also planning to move forward with a petition. “If we don’t do something, things are not going to change,” Loucks remarked. Approximately 25 RDHS students took part in that school’s student-organized walk which lasted about four hours. MPP Steve Clark issued a statement defending the education reforms. “Our government made a commitment to parents and students to focus on the real challenges facing the education system, including the fact that over half of sixth graders are failing their math tests,” said Clark. “We’re not going to abandon our plan to fix the math and literacy problems while building a sustainable, modern, world-class education system that is truly preparing students for the future.”
Athens District High School students recently walked out in protest to the proposed government changes to education.
MEDIA RELEASES Joshua Bates Centre
Lions Speech Contest Awards
(Corrected version. The Mural apologizes for errors in the version in the April issue.)
Every Year the Athens Lions Club hosts a dinner for all of the winners of the Pineview Public School Speech Contest. Winners present their speeches and the Lions Club presents cash awards to all of the winning contestants. Speeches including everything from “cacti” to “thinking outside of the box”. This year’s winners are pictured together with Lion representatives Larry Winters at left and Kevin Barber at right. The speech winners are (L-R back) Brooklyn Lawless-Musgraves, Asia McBride, Megan Hiltz and Ryan Miller, (L-R front) Hartley Jackson, Daniella Hartley, and Abby Bell (Absent is Max McBride). Photo by Sally Smid.
SPRING CLEANUP Free Disposal of Leaves, Yard Waste & Brush ONLY
May 15th, 18th, 22nd & 25th 8 am to 4 pm
All residents of the Township of Athens will be able to drop off, at no charge, all leaves, yard waste and brush at the Transfer Site located on Montgomery Road in Charleston. Summer Hours at Transfer Site: rd June 3 to Sept 16th – Open Mondays, 8 am to noon in addition to regular hours Wednesday and Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm (Excluding: July 1st , Aug 5th and Sept 2nd )
Spidey has captivated the minds of people around the world with his tours across North America, eight international TV shows and 11+ million online viewers. Spidey has performed on the stages of the Las Vegas Rio Casino and the iconic NYC Apollo Theatre. He was named US Mentalist of the Year 2017 (despite being Canadian!) and has performed for major celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Steve Harvey, Simon Cowell, Neil Patrick Harris, Penn &Teller and many more. Spidey will perform his much-anticipated mind-reading show that has been a success on NBC’s TODAY Show, TMZ and Rachael Ray! He joined the cast of CW’s Masters of Illusion and his new NETFLIX Original Series: Brainchild is being watched in 21 countries! Spidey’s other TV appearances include FOX’s Showtime at the Apollo with Steve Harvey, Discovery Channel, Entertainment Tonight and many more. He promises to bring his popular TV tricks to the Joshua Bates Centre. A magical journey that taps into your every emotion. Spidey presents a mind-blowing and
hilarious MAKE BELIEVE performance. He’ll freak you out with his eerie mental demonstrations bordering on the supernatural! PEOPLE Magazine: “You’re a WICKED SORCERER!” US Weekly: “That was the ULTIMATE MAGIC TRICK!” TODAY Show: “SEE it to BELIEVE it!” Penn &Teller: “You KILLED us with that trick! BRILLIANT!” Entertainment Tonight: “He’ll DEFINITELY leave you in AWE!” Steve Harvey: “You and me, we’re going to Vegas Come on out to the Joshua Bates Centre and enjoy a one of a kind magic show suitable for ages 8 and up, on Saturday May 11, 2019. Tickets are $30.00 each and are available at: www.joshuabatescentre.com, Athens Municipal Office - 613.924.2044, Serendipity Haircare, or by calling Deb at 613.924.2056 The Joshua Bates Centre is located at 1 Main Street, Athens. Our hall is accessible for all, with an elevator up to the 2nd level.
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Page 8 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019 Paul George of Delta Mill demonstrates that aprons today are not just for mothers and grandmothers!
Judy Fielding, in the role of motherly figure Sarah Wiltse, appeared in a heritage presentation wearing a vintage apron.
All about the apron strings Story and photos by Sally Smid Especially on Mothers Day, many of us have an assortment of cherished memories about our mothers and grandmothers. Some of those recollections involve the aprons that were worn and the variety of purposes that they served. This was the recent theme of a presentation at Maple View Lodge by Athens Museum volunteers. An apron’s principal use was to protect the dress
Wishing all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day!
JUDSON
underneath. In days gone by, most women had few dresses and it was easier to wash aprons which served so many household purposes. It was a handy potholder for holding on to hot pans and also served the purpose of wiping a perspiring brow when working over a hot fireplace or stove. Through a variety of demonstrations residents were prompted to recollect the apron’s use in carrying in eggs from the chicken coop, gathering garden vegetables or fruits, and even transporting firewood. A waving apron was often a signal to the “men folk” that it was time to come in from the fields for dinner. An apron became a handy duster for quick clean-ups when unexpected company would arrive and also served as a place where shy children could hide in response to any unfamiliar company. It was also something they could grasp for comfort and security and was easily used for wiping tears, runny noses or cleaning ears. It seems
there was not a lot of concern for germs in those days! During the depression aprons were often made from any pieces of scrap or even feed bags. In wartime many women became part of the workforce and were not so typically in the kitchen. In post-war times, the apron became the symbol of the “typical housewife”. Eventually many women sought careers outside of the home. It may seem that the apron has gone by the wayside. However, more recently the apron has gained increased popularity as employees in the service industry wear aprons, sporting a variety of logos, for work. When we say that someone is “tied to mother's apron strings” it would seem to have a negative meaning but it could also indicate a strong influence and connection with a loving mother. Certainly the impact of a maternal figure and the sentiment and warm memories evoked by “mother’s old-time apron” are empowering, precious and lasting in many ways.
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Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 9
FOCUS ON
GARDENING Pond Gardens by
Sally Smid
Pond gardens are one of the fastest growing trends in landscaping. There is much to consider in such a project and local businesses like Ritchie Feed and Seed, Lyndhurst’s Home Building Centre and Athens Hardware can help supply needed advice and materials with many items that can be ordered. Ritchies carries suitable pond plants, pump kits, fish and more. A proper level pond site selection is important before choosing a design. If fish are to be included, a good water stream is advised and the pond should be deep enough to accommodate a healthy ecosystem. Overhanging trees can result in the collection of rotting leaves and roots can damage the pond liner. For a pond to support fish over the winter it will have to be 36” deep. A pond heater can be added. Ponds can be built simply with a prefabricated hard plastic liner and placed in a suitable hole. They can also be made by using a soft liner placed into a sand lined hole, offering a wider variety of
design options. “Plants like lily pads and reeds can absorb fish waste and oxygenate the pond but make sure that light can still get in,” advises experienced pond owner Shirley Huinink. Other plants, river stones, and decorative rocks can be included. Natural stone helps to encourage healthier enzyme growth. Your pump and filtration system should be adequate for your pond and should recycle the water at least once in two hours. A water fall, spitters, secondary ponds, or more can be added. A wide variety of plants and flowers can be included in a garden surrounding your pond. You can be creative with textures, sizes and colors. Ornaments, sculptures, lighting and more can be added. It is wise to keep in mind how the garden will look all year long. Mixing in plants that provide a fall and winter interest increases the longevity of your pond area where you can relax while listening to the sounds of flowing water and enjoy the beauty of the fish and plants in your own personal pond garden.
This large pond at 1000 Islands Village makes great use of local rocks with a waterfall providing special interest. Photo by Sally Smid
Photo by Sally Smid
Photo by Shirley Huinink
This suburban pond designed by Shirley Huinink has grown and changed over the seasons and has involved a lot of creative energies but is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the water, fish, frogs and flowers! Raised garden planters can also be created with other materials such a brick and concrete. Photo by Sally Smid
Let’s Get Planting !
Allie Carkner of Ritchie Feed and Seed displays a variety of plants and soils that are available for use in a raised garden bed project. Photo by Sally Smid
Raised Garden Beds by
Sally Smid
Raised garden beds are an easy way to get into gardening and are becoming more popular. Garden work becomes easier with less bending and kneeling. Productivity of plants can improve due to better drainage and deeper rooting. They are ideal for small spaces, result in a longer growing season and have fewer weeds. A raised bed is simply a box at ground level or on legs. A raised bed requires a minimum of 4 boards, some nails or screws and some corner braces. Reg of Athens Hardware has quite a bit of gardening training and experience and offers a few basic guidelines for building a raised bed. “Cedar lumber is a great choice, but basic spruce lumber also works and can be painted with a water based paint.” While some say that pressure treated wood is not acceptable, Reg says it is fine to use but a liner on the inside is recommended. The planter should be at least 10 - 12 inches deep. A soil mixture containing compost and peat moss is the best medium to use as regular garden soil is too heavy. Location is very important — the raised bed can be placed anywhere in your yard or even on a driveway but should have good drainage. There are a variety of plants, flowers and even vegetables that can be grown in your completed bed. Lyndhurst Home Building Centre, Athens Hardware, and Ritchie’s Feed and Seed have many of the materials needed for such a project. Raised beds can even be made of brick or cement block. Supplies and kits can be ordered and advice can be offered for your project. Raised beds are a great way to garden, and another chance to support our local businesses!
The Dullemonds of Athens discovered a creative way to make a raised garden bed with the use of rustic doors and hinges. Photo credit: Lisa Dullemond.
Tack’s
Rock Talk What is Washed Stone?
Produced from the manufacture of washed sand, washed ornamental stone is available in a variety of sizes for many landscaping and commercial uses. Sizes include 3/8 inch Pea Stone, 2-5 inch Ornamental Stone, and 3/4 inch Washed Stone.
Pickup or delivery of washed stone can be arranged through our Athens office or Sweet’s Sand and Gravel, Seeley’s Bay 613-387-3838
613-924-2634
Head Office: 109 Washburn Rd. Athens, ON
tackaberryconstruction.com
Wendy’s Country Market has a great selection of tried and true perennials, heritage tomato plants from our own seed, heritage vegetable plants, old fashioned annuals and lots of interesting herbs to choose from for your spring planting needs. PLUS NEW LOCAL SEEDS from Kitchen Table Seed House of Wolfe Island! Great Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day!
Wendy’s Country Market 613-928-2477
408 Fortune Line Road, RR#2 Lyndhurst
www.WendysCountrymarket.com
Page 10 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Ben’s
COUNTRY CANTEEN
Celebrating 40 Years In Business • 1979-2019 26 Henry Street, Athens Ontario
RIDGWAY
CONFECTIONS Fine Belgian Chocolate 159 Main Street, Seeley’s Bay
Seeley’s Bay is part of the Rideau Waterway and is a port along the beautiful Canal system.
Story and photo by Sally Smid
Come visit us! Open 7 days a week Visit us on Facebook, The Athens Chipwagon - Ben's
Saturday, June 1, 2019
11am-5pm Friday through to Sunday
613-532-4468 www.ridgewayconfections.com
RED CANOEFEST SEELEY’S BAY
Pancake Breakfast
Location: Seeley’s Bay Legion Time: 8am to noon Start the day with a pancake breakfast. Beginning at 8am (until noon), we will be serving pancakes and sausage at the Seeley’s Bay Legion. What a great way to begin your morning. Breakfast is FREE for those signed up for an event or $5 payable at the door.
Kids and Cops
Location: Seeley’s Bay Municipal Docks Time: 9am to 11am Register online at www.redcanoefest.com The Kids and Cops Fishing Derby returns for a fourth year! Hosted this year by Just Fishing Show’s ‘Big’ Jim McLaughlin! Brings the kids down to the docks to meet a local OPP Police Offi-
cer and see who can land the biggest fish. There will be lots of giveaways and prizes and the kids can enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast at the legion starting at 8am. Kids should bring their own fishing gear (fishing rod and water safety vest) and an adult buddy.
Silent Poker Run
Location: Centennial Park Paddling Station Time: 10am until noon. Registration - Online at www.redcanoefest.com Explore the Rideau Canal in the 6th annual Silent Poker Run! Paddle in your kayak, canoe, row boat raft or anything that floats and does not have a motor. Enjoy the splendor of the waterway while collecting poker cards and attempting to collect the best poker hand. Great prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd best hands. Enjoy a pancake breakfast before you paddle – starts at 8am.
Seeley’s Bay is a very suitable place for an event such as “The Red Canoe Fest”! It is known as a gateway to the world heritage Rideau Waterway, being the “first full-service port-of-call heading north on the canal from Kingston”. From the Bay’s free public wharf you can travel to four beautiful lakes, go through the canal locks, and get to “anywhere in the world by water!” The area is becoming “a destination of choice for eco-tourists who can enjoy cycling tours along the Rideau and the surrounding lakes region or hiking the Arch at Rock Dunder.” Many paddle the river routes, discover the area’s sustainable fishing, or explore the variety of local artisans, foods and green accommodations. Visitors to the Fest are finding the community to be a “safe, friendly, restful and healthy haven.” Seeley’s Bay has recently embarked on a community improvement agenda called Seeley’s Bay Steps Up, which has involved improvements to the marina area. Le Boat, the European company that offers self-driving boat cruises on the Rideau Canal, has recently decided to expand to Seeley’s Bay. With this new port of call, Le Boat guests have the opportunity to do one-way cruising on the Rideau Canal for the first time and can choose a several night tour or a one-week cruise. The company’s boats are referred to as “floating condos” that can be driven by anyone with only a bit of instruction. Many benefits are expected for the area with the addition of more boats in coming years, including the creation of additional jobs. Le Boat tourists are projected to spend $12.5 million over the next five years at restaurants, shops and stores along the canal, from Ottawa to Kingston, and Seeley’s Bay should be quite impacted. It seems that the pristine beauty of the “the Red Canoe waterfront” will be discovered by many more international visitors in the days to come!
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Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 11
MURAL
SPORTS
Skating their way at year-end ice show By Christopher Lee Athens Mural Sports Reporter With calendars flipping to the spring months, many sports are wrapping up for the winter and for the Athens Figure Skating Club, that means a year end ice show. Nearly 50 years have passed since the club hosted their first show, and while many things have changed including new faces, skills, dances and themes many have stayed the same. This year’s theme was Broadway: Our Way, creating a unique harmony between the clubs history and its present. It also allows the club to choose from a wide variety of enthusiastic music, says club coach Kim Ferguson. “It also allows the girls to learn a little bit of the musicals that have been used from the past and present, so it’s good culturally for them.” Hosting the ice show is an important part of the year, says Ferguson, because after a long and tough year of competing it is nice to be able to sit back and have
some fun in front of friends and family. “The girls work extremely hard all year, sometimes through the summer... they’re always working. And then at the end, in March, it’s their time to be able to shine and they get to show the (audience) everything they’ve been working on.” Not only did the ice show feature a unique harmony between past and present but it featured some unique skills, with Ferguson announcing to the crowd before the show that there might be a few extra falls as skaters wanted to showcase skills they were still working to master. “We really encourage the kids that they not play it safe, that they put out their most impressive jumps… we encourage them to go ahead and put those doubles in,” she says. “People enjoy seeing those rotations happen in the air and we all understand if they don’t land on that one little edge on that one little blade.” Being able to push their limits is important, says Ferguson, because it allows the skaters to be comfortable when they are at tests or competitions.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for them to learn how to handle their nerves. Being able to gather themselves and know they can do it on their own.” The ice show does create a unique platform for the skaters as well, as they are allowed to incorporate whatever elements they want into their skate, instead of being limited to the elements set out by Skate Canada for competitions. “They always have fun when they’re able to do a split on the ice or a special spin where they pull their legs over their head. That is exciting to them and they’re able to show off some of the extra skills that they don’t normally have in their normal programs,” says Ferguson. Skaters danced to 25 pieces throughout the two hour show, including group, and solo performances, and after all the hard work that went into the show, Ferguson says she was pleased with how it turned out. “I was very proud of the girls... in dress rehearsal sometimes you’re shaking your head thinking ‘oh man this isn’t going to come together’ and they always
amaze me because they’ll just pull it off. They’re such performers that they’re able to just do it in the end even if something isn’t perfect in the line.” A lot of hard work goes into putting on the ice show each and every year, and as has been the case year-over-year, the community came out in droves to fill Centre 76. Nearly every seat in the arena was full, which Ferguson and the club says they are very thankful for. It was not just the skaters and coaches who put in tremendous amounts of work over the course of the season preparing for competitions, tests and the ice show either, as many people did their part to make both the season and the show a success, says Ferguson, adding she wanted to thank parents, volunteers and board members for all their work. With the ice show now in the books for 2019, the figure skating club will turn their attention to spring school, where skaters will recharge their batteries and start working on elements for next season.
Page 12 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Melissa and John of Bramble Lea Farm keep busy each spring tending plants in the greenhouse that they constructed together. Photo by Sally Smid.
Above: Bramble Lea Farm operators anticipate a productive year at their organic farming business!
Left: This is what the Bramble Lea Farm stand looks like in the summertime.
Photo by Sally Smid.
Photo by John Ondrovcik.
Bramble Lea Farm by
Sally Smid
The excitement that John and Melissa Ondrovcik have for organic farming is quite contagious! The couple operates Bramble Lea Farm near Athens on what was Crown grant land that was first farmed in 1797. Like those original Loyalists, they came north for a fresh start. John moved from Ontario to the U.S. and taught at Harvard University and in Mississippi. Melissa, a native of Wisconsin, taught in Massachusetts colleges. In
2007 they traveled through Nova Scotia and worked as farmhands. They’ve gained a deep love for agriculture and have learned much about organic farming. With their daughter Lulu’s arrival in 2016, they decided to come to Canada. John's parents, Wayne and Emely Bennett, sold their house near Toronto and moved with the Ondrovciks to Bramble Lea Farm. Based on "community-supported agriculture”, or CSA, they have a goal of “creating long-term relationships between farmers and consumers”. Cus-
HELP WANTED
Surveyor/Grade Person
Tackaberry Construction is a local, family run business, serving eastern Ontario since 1957. We offer competitive wages with group benefits. We currently have an opening at our Athens Location for a Surveyor/Grade Person, working in the excavation and road construction industry. Primary Responsibilities: • Provide construction layout for various projects • Assist in quantity takeoff and estimate preparation • Meet customers and prepare quotes, estimates • Assist with supervision, coordination and administration of jobs on site The successful candidates should have: • Communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills • Experience with Trimble GPS and AutoCAD Civil 3D • Experience reading drawings and producing job estimates • Knowledge of road building, including asphalt paving, site work and excavation • Computer proficiency with MS Word and Excel • Superior accuracy, math ability and analytical skills • Valid driver’s license If you are a self-starter, interested in working in a fast-paced environment, please submit your resume to: careers@tackaberryconstruction.com Or in person at: 109 Washburn Road, Athens, Ontario G. Tackaberry & Sons is an equal opportunity employer. We wish to thank all who apply for this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
tomers prepay for a season of vegetables, which provides needed capital for supplies. The farm grows a wide range of vegetables without synthetic fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides. They pick, wash and package by hand to minimize any damage that shortens shelf life and affects flavours. Produce includes almost every vegetable including more unique items like okra, eggplant, kohlrabi, parsnip, chard, kale, leek, herbs and so much more! In the fall there’s lots of greens, apples, pumpkins, squash, and tubers. This spring, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, asparagus and more fruit trees are being planted. John is also a baker and plans to offer CSA breads, pies, cakes, and pastries. There are hopes of adding chickens and
livestock in the future. CSA customers help grow the business and can benefit from offered incentives while enjoying healthy, locally grown produce. Bramble Lea Farm’s stand operates on a self serve basis. Purchases of very fresh produce are available through an honour system. They also sell on Saturdays at a market in Ottawa. The Farm has launched a fundraising campaign to help advance their business. Any contribution made will also include a donation to the Brockville Food Bank. This innovative farm business is making a big difference to our community in many ways and has a promising future! To find out more, become a CAS member or to donate go to www.brambleleafarm.com
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 13
Yonge in Bloom’s Annual Garden Seminar Story and photo by Catherine Orth With four new dynamic presentations and a sold out house, Yonge in Bloom's Annual Garden Seminar has established itself as one of the preeminent go-to pre-season garden events for the area's enthusiastic gardeners. Tables creatively decorated with driftwood acted as both a desk and a luncheon area. There was a silent auction and numerous door prizes. Platefuls of sandwiches, squares and cookies, and coffee and tea were provided by the Junetown Women's Institute. The four speakers during the April 13 event at the Mallorytown Community Centre were Dr. Frederick W. Schueler, Mr. Brian Carson, Dr. Andrew Thomas and Mr. Ivan Ross Vrana. Dr. Schueler provided insight on battling for biodiversity: promoting natives and suppressing invasives. Vegetative beauty can be defined either in terms of the artificially selected blooms and foliage of plants that wouldn’t naturally be found onsite, or by the harmonious competitive mingling of species that are native to an area. Species imported for the former purpose often get away as invasive aliens, which means that striving for the latter often involves the control of escapees from the first. Dr. Schueler discussed a relatively unsuccessful 40-year struggle for native diversity in his home area, and contrasts this with more active methods of naturalization by neighbours. Mr. Carson’s knowledge and enthusiasm as he tells his wonderful stories
lecture would certainly make you consider becoming one! Dr. Thomas has a Fellowship in Family Medicine and is an Adjunct Professor of Family Medicine at Queen’s Medical School and the University of Ottawa. He did a certification in Functional Medicine and has completed Yoga teacher training at Subramanya Yoga. He now has a focused practice that involves whole person, team based approaches to a variety of needs both in health and illness. Last but not least was Mr. Vrana’s talk on cannabis. Parachuted in at the last moment as a previous speaker could not make it, Mr. Vrana clearly impressed. He covered information relating to the positive and negative aspects of both medical and recreational cannabis and answered questions in detail from the audience. He also discussed some of the associated Canadian and U.S. legalities. In attendance were the ladies of the Board of the Gananoque Horticultural Back row L-R: Yonge in Bloom’s Catherine Blatch, and guest speakers Mr. Bri- Society, who had much praise for Yonge an Carson, Dr. Fred Scheuler, Aleta Karstad and Dr. Andrew Thomas. Front row in Bloom. Alice Kendall said, “I'm very L-R: Yonge in Bloom members Pat Halbert, Annette Kaldeway and Diana Earle. impressed by the Mallorytown (Yonge in Bloom) community to put on someinstantly engage his audience. He is an received the prestigious Award of Merit thing like this. We've been looking at obsessed local plant explorer and award from them Ontario Horticultural Asso- their pictures of their community events winning photographer. He spoke of the ciation for his work with Trilliums. His and spirit. Wow, what a great little treasures of the Ottawa Valley and of the current obsessions, plant hunting and town!” many astonishing floral gems he has re- photography, have brought international YIB's next event is their Plant Sale at cently found. He enjoys astounding fel- recognition to the Ottawa Valley for its the Recreation Field on Saturday May low gardeners with his floral wonders. fancy double Trilliums, colour variants 11, 8am to 11am. And on July 13 they His career included farming, market and many marvellous mutations. host the Hidden Garden Tour, with adgardening, underwater salvaging, maDr. Thomas spoke convincing- vanced tickets $15 or $20 on the day of sonry contracting and mine supervision. ly of gardening as a part of ones total the event. He lectures frequently, leads field trips health and wellness. If you are a garSupporting the Garden Seminar was and conducts workshops. Last year he dener, count your blessings. If not, his Connie Zeran of Beyond the Arbour.
The Easter Bunny Visits Photos and captions by Sally Smid Below left: Volunteer Charlynn Lecompte got an Easter hug from a special visitor at the recent Athens Bingo night. Below right: The Easter Bunny made an annual appearance at the Joshua Bates Center to assist with the weekly bingo fundraiser for the Athens Fire Department. He assisted caller Norien Lagace and passed out candies to participants as a gesture of Easter cheer.
RESOURCES
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Residents & Businesses including cell phone numbers Affordable Year Round Advertising 10,000 Print Directories AND On Line: www.RideauLakesDirectory.ca or www.RLDirectory.ca Call or email The Wordsmith, Westport
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Please recycle this paper
Page 14 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
This photo was taken at the Front of Yonge Township office today celebrating Bill Patterson’s 35 years of service with the Township. For the last 20 years Bill has been the Township’s Public Works Superintendent. (L-R) FoY Councillor Richard Marcoux, Mayor Roger Haley, Bill Patterson, Councillor Gail Williams and Councillor Carson Massey. (Submitted)
Joshua Bates Events Story and Photos by Sally Smid Joshua Bates Performing Arts Committee is concluding a season of professional entertainment. Carl Dixon’s “Stories and Songs” event (February 23) demonstrated his talented stage presence and strong vocal and guitar skills, impressing an appreciative audience. Dixon gave a unique look into the challenges of a rock artist, having played with such groups as The Guess Who and April Wine. He went through 8 years of recuperation after a serious accident which redefined his life and is now also a motivational speaker. Some audience members described it as “the best JBC show ever!” The Jordy Jackson Band appeared on the JBC stage on April 5. The younger audience enjoyed the addition of a dance floor and a cash bar was tended by members of the local Athens Lions Club. Young and old enjoyed this performer’s superior vocals and stage presence. Spidey Make Believe, Magic of Your Mind is taking the stage on May 11. Spidey is billed as “captivating the minds of people around the world with his tours across North America, eight international TV shows and 11+ million online viewers”. He promises to bring his popular mind reading tricks to his Athens event. The JBC Performing Arts Committee will be entering its 25th year in the fall. The group gives to the community in a variety of ways, bringing world class entertainers into their historic hall, providing a bursary for an ADHS graduate and also providing concerts for the two local schools. Pineview enjoyed Brent and Sarah Magic this season. Angela Saini performed a concert at ADHS recently, which was also donated by this committee. “We are very thankful for our many sponsors and volunteers,” remarked Committee Chair Mary-Rae Knapp. “Many may not realize that singers such as Johnny Reid and Brent Kessel had their early beginnings at JBC, a real jewel in our area. We are looking for new ways to get the word out!”
The Jordy Jackson Band rocked the Joshua Bates Centre in a recent performance. Band members include (L-R) Patrick Marshall, Dan Killen, Jordy Jackson and Ted Lalonde.
A nostalgic slideshow helped Carl Dixon tell the story of the ups and downs of his musical career at his recent JBC performance.
MEDIA RELEASES
Tips for dealing with flooding on your property Recent heavy rains across the province have swollen lakes and rivers and resulted in water ponding on many properties. Flood water and water ponding around wells and septic systems can affect your drinking water and septic system. The Leeds Grenville and Lanark
Health Unit advises those whose wells are affected by these conditions to boil their water for one minute at a rolling boil before drinking the water. Have your well water tested for bacteria. If your septic system has been affected, limit water usage by taking quick showers
rather than baths, avoid using the dishwasher, garbage disposal and washing machine and flush your toilets only when necessary. Ensure your basement sump pump is not going into the septic system. Do not pump out your septic tank when the soil around the tank or the leaching bed is still saturated with water. High ground water levels may cause an empty septic tank to float and break out of the ground. • Keep your family safe by keeping family members and pets away from and out of the flood water. • DO NOT enter areas where electrical
systems have been affected by flood water as you may be electrocuted. • Building materials, clothing and furniture exposed to flood waters are likely contaminated with sewage. Some items can be cleaned and disinfected; others may need to be thrown out. • Ask for professional advice during clean up. If you try to save and clean items on your own, wear protective clothing, a mask and gloves. For information on flooding visit the health unit website at https://healthunit.org/ health-information/emergency-preparedness/personal-preparedness/flooding/
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 15
MURAL
SPORTS
Pictured (L to R) Back Row: assistant coach Tom Kirton, trainer Tim Simpson, assistant coach Sean Haggerman, and head coach Mike McCann. Middle Row: manager Kim McCann, Sylvan Dowsley, Grayson Coleman, Kurtis Morrey, assistant captain Liam Simpson, assistant captain Brock Seed, assistant captain Joe Brownson, Reagan Donnelly, assistant captain Cody McCann, Will Vander Byl, and Evan Carrol. Front Row: Eric Judson, Zack Haggerman, Chad Blanchard, Spencer McCann, Nick Larue, Mitchell Hoogwerf, Kody Kirton, and Brandin Hudson. Photo courtesy of Tim Simpson.
Chargers win championship Girls Inc. continues empowering A member of Joe’s SpencerCity Bar and Grill reaches for the puck during Girls Inc. tournament action at the Brockville Memorial Centre on March 31. Photo by Christopher Lee
women at annual tournament By: Christopher Lee Athens Mural Sports Reporter Typically hockey tournaments are a chance to grab bragging rights, but a recent tournament at the Brockville Memorial Centre was about so much more. Girls Incorporated of Upper Canada hosted their tenth annual hockey tournament March 29-31, helping raise money for support programs and workshops for local girls, aimed at inspiring them to be strong, smart and bold. Not only does the tournament provide Girls Inc. with a chance to raise money but it is a great chance to bring women together and help give back to the next generation, says Girls Incorporated of Upper Canada Executive Director Lesley Hubbard. “(It) provides a platform for them to role model women’s sport and the range of ages, body types and skill level that all deserve this opportunity to be part of the game of hockey or the world of sport.” The tournament featured more than 200 women, 14 teams, and 24 games spread across the three days, with teams and players coming from all over including one team from New York, one from Oshawa, and many players from communities including New Liskeard. Thanks to a terrific turnout and great support from local sponsors, the tournament was able to raise close to $20,000, says Hubbard, who added it was one of their strongest years. “It’s incredible,” says Hubbard of all the support. With so much support, Girls Inc. is able to use the money raised to support local girls in Leeds-Grenville, and while Hubbard does not have any specific programs or workshops for which the money will be used, she said it would go towards some of the general programming they run each year.
“(It) allows us to maintain, sustain the programs that we’re offering.” In 2018 Girls Inc. was able to support 844 girls in Leeds-Grenville through both community and school based programming, with approximately 13 school programs running over the last few months. But just what are some of those programs? “That’s a pretty big question because the opportunities are endless,” says Hubbard. “There are a couple streams of opportunities. We do programming that’s both school based and community based. We have a whole series of summer programs coming up.” Some of those programs include a girls government program, which is aimed towards high school aged girls, as well as economic literacy, violence prevention, peer-pressure and substance abuse prevention, media literacy, as well as programs focusing on math, science, and technology to name a few. “The themes of our programs change because we deal with so many different topics,” says Hubbard. “Everything that Girls Inc. does is about creating a safe, empowering space for girls to be inspired and uplifted by role models who care about helping them overcome systemic barriers to be their best.” Overall, Hubbard was pleased with how the weekend went, calling it a “great weekend.” “The feedback that we get on our tournament every year is overwhelmingly positive.” More than 30 sponsors helped make the weekend a success, donating time, money, food, drink, prizes, or other items, and Hubbard says she is thankful for the support, calling those sponsors crucial to the overall success of the tournament.
The Leeds Bantam Rep Chargers are Upper Canada Minor Hockey League playoff champions after knocking off Long Sault five points to three in the championship series. The Chargers finished the regular season with a 19-8-1 record, good enough for a second place tie with North Glengarry-Stormont (NGS). The Chargers won the tiebreaker over NGS thanks to a 2-1 head-to-head record during the regular season and took on seventh-seeded Char-Lan in round 1. Leeds wasted little time taking care of their first round opponents as the Chargers won 5-2 in each of the first two games of the series, earning a series sweep and a spot in round two. In the second round, the Chargers took on NGS in a battle between the two teams tied for second during the regular season. After tying 2-2 in Athens, the teams went back to Maxville, with each knowing a win would book a spot in the league final. After a hard-fought 80 minutes, the Chargers emerged with a 3-1 win to clinch a spot in the final. In the league final, the Chargers took on fourth-seeded South Stormont who upset top-ranked Brockville en route to the final. With home ice advantage in their possession, the Chargers struck first in the series, grabbing a 4-2 win. After tying 2-2 in Long Sault the teams came back to Athens, with the Chargers knowing a win would clinch the league title. The home side came out aggressive in the early going and grabbed a lead they would hold into the third, but South Stormont roared back scoring two unanswered goals to win 4-3, forcing a game four back in Long Sault. After giving away a chance to clinch the series on home ice, the Chargers made sure not to blow another opportunity, jumping out to a 3-1 lead and hanging on down the stretch as South Stormont pressed hard, but only managed a single goal, giving Leeds the 3-2 win and the league title. “All season long the coaching staff of Mike McCann, Tom Kirton, and Sean Haggerman told the Bantams that they had the talent to be Champions. But it would take hard work and team discipline,” trainer Tim Simpson said in an email to The Mural. “In the end that is what paid off.”
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Page 16 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
The Corporation of the Township of Athens
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The Township of Athens invites applications on behalf of the Heritage Society for an Athens Museum Summer position. $14.00/hr. for 40 hrs. a week June, July and August 2019 Training will be provided for archiving, digitizing, and organizing archives. Additional duties will include conducting museum tours, and providing program and tourism assistance.
Mayor Arie Hoogenboom, MP Michael Barrett and MPP Steve Clark served as “celebrity cooks” and then enjoyed pancakes together at the recent Delta Maple Syrup Festival.
Resumes will be received via email: athens@myhighspeed.ca Or in person, at the Municipal office 1 Main Street West, Athens ON No later than noon on Friday May 10, 2019 We thank all applicants for your interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Musical entertainer Gerry Mitchell entertained youngsters with his “Sing Every Day” program at this year’s Delta Maple Syrup Festival.
Thank You
The Board of Directors of the Delta Agricultural Society would like to acknowledge all of the Volunteers, Sponsors, Exhibitors and Patrons who supported the 2019 Delta Maple Syrup Festival.
Because of your interest, dedication and loyalty, the 52nd Anniversary Edition was a great success and fostered many memorable moments for all! Thanks again and we look forward to seeing you at the 189th Anniversary Edition of the Delta Fair: July 25th to 28th. Art Cowan President William Morris Secretary
Visiting from South Africa, young Thomas tried out the Delta Maple Syrup Festival promotion board.
(L-R) Volunteers Mariska Kriebel and Sharon Okum display the latest Delta Mill branded items at the Old Stone Mill at the recent Festival weekend.
Delta Maple Syrup Festival Story and photos by Sally Smid A festival with a longevity of 52 years is a testament to its popularity! The Delta Maple Syrup Festival, the first of its kind in the area, began with sugar shack tours to help attract visitors to the area. Then it lasted 3 days in March to accommodate school tours on Fridays and pancakes were served on both floors of the Old Town Hall. The Festival continues to draw huge crowds and now includes much more. Its success can be attributed to the continued efforts of many local and area volunteers and service clubs. It is now sponsored by the Delta Agricultural Society near the end of maple syrup season. Customer: This year’s rain, cold and mud didn’t seem to detract LOWER BEVERLY from the enthusiasm of those who came to visit with loLAKE cal syrup and craft vendors, tour the Old Stone Mill and Issue: MAY 2019 Drive-shed, browse the gigantic book sale at the Old Colour: BW Town Hall or stop by the Fire Hall Museum. Of course Size: 1/6 PG the highlight of the Fest has to be enjoying “all you can Proof #: 2
eat pancakes” and sausages. The event typically uses about 150 Liters of locally produced maple syrup to serve over 20,000 attendees. For the kids there was face painting, entertainment by musician Gerry Mitchell, bumper balls, a Rideau Library Pop-Up Play area, and more. Since it was Easter weekend, there was also an Easter Egg Hunt and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. “It is a family friendly weekend in Delta,” comments organizer William Morris, “and is always a real sign of spring!” Online marketing now seems to expand the variety of areas from which visitors travel. Visitors traveled from Kingston and even from Toronto. Many had family connections in the area and were visiting for the holiday. One member of a Toronto family remarked that it was refreshing to be in rural Delta and away from the busy city life. “It is so quiet. We would love to live here,” she said with a smile. Perhaps this is another festival to just celebrate the blessings of small town life and all of the friendly, rural people who work together to make their community so endearing.
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 17
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Page 18 THE MURAL Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Three TLTI residents honoured with a Community Volunteer Impact Award Story and photos by Catherine Orth Three people from the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands were among the honoured at the Community Volunteer Impact Awards, held at Luna Restaurant in Brockville on April 10. They were: Malcolm Kay and Owen Leakey, two Grade 6 boys from the Thousand Islands Elementary School (TIES) in Lansdowne and LAFR President, Peter Christie for his volunteer teaching assistance, also at TIES. The boys, nominated by several teachers at TIES, received the Elementary Student Volunteer Caring Award. These young boys contribute to their school community by volunteering over 10 hours each week. They act as leaders for the Grades 2 and 3 Science program, and are described as being kind, caring, patient and compassionate. They provide support for the smaller children, set up the gym, organize the students, and clean up the facilities. They help kindergarten students at lunchtime and deliver milk to students throughout the school. The teachers deeply appreciate them as they are dependable and show up every day with no reminders. They show empathy and sympathy in the needs of all students and respect the differences of the young children they work with. These boys give up their recess time daily for the betterment of the school community. Speaking to the boys on receiving their awards, Malcolm said, “ It feels good. I never knew that people knew that I was doing something good. I wanted to help out.” And Owen said, “It felt cool. I didn't think I was doing
anything special. I wanted to do it because helping people makes me feel better.” Peter Christie was nominated for the Community Volunteer Impact Award by some of the staff at TIES. Peter works with students in support of the Science program in Grades 5 and 6. Peter is a woodworker of many years and shares his skills with the students of TIES. As any volunteer who works in a school, Peter brings far more to the school than the curriculum based activity. He assists weekly with activities in the classroom, providing one on one support and encouragement to students in Math, Language and Science. He is a valuable mentor for young males with low self-esteem. He acts as a supervisor for contestants in Bridge Builders. Peter has created, with success, many science experiments, making a huge impact on the scope of science and hands on activities in the school. One teacher says, “He has been an inspiration to me. He is willing to take risks. He has taught students how to safely use tools and he has given teachers and students the confidence to design and build their own creations. This demonstrates the impact of his volunteering.” Peter said “It's great to introduce kids to tools and equipment that they might not otherwise to able to use or even know. It's fun for them to be able to change it up a bit and learn how to work with wood.” Front of Yonge Mayor Roger Haley's mother, Betty Haley was honoured as the First Executive Director of the Volunteer Centre, which opened in 1981.
Owen Leakey (L) and Malcolm Kay (R) proudly hold their Elementary Student Volunteer Caring Award, presented to them at the Community Volunteer Impact Awards, by Harold Hess, Manager of the Volunteer Centre of St Lawrence-Rideau, April 10, 2019. Marion Dalley, Coordinator of Volunteers, Event Manager for the Volunteer Centre of St Lawrence-Rideau, presents LAFR president, Peter Christie, with the Community Volunteers Impact Award on April 10, 2019, for his volunteer work with students at TIES, in Lansdowne.
CHARLESTON CHARLESTON LAKE LAKE ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION
SUMMER SERIES STILL ROCK ‘N ROLL TO ME Starring Jim Witter Celebrating the music of Elton John & Billy Joel
OPENING NIGHT GALA Saturday, June 22 at 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by HANSLER SMITH
THE BEACH PARTY BOYS The ultimate tribute to the Beach Boys. Wednesday, July 3 at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, July 4 at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by 1000 ISLANDS TOYOTA
DREAMER
The Supertramp Experience! Wednesday, July 17 at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by THE ARVIC GROUP
GREEN RIVER REVIVAL
Canada’s foremost tribute to CCR. Wednesday, July 31 at 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 1 at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by HANG UPS
Opening Night Gala Single tickets - $39.50 + HST (purchased with a 3 to 5-show package - $35.00 + HST)
Single tickets for remaining shows $35 +HST 3-show package - $89.50 +HST 4-show package $109.50 +HST 5-show package - $129.50 +HST Group rate - 10+ tickets $30 +HST
Box Office at 613.342.7122 or Toll free 1.877.342.7122 Online Sales - www.bactickets.ca 235 King Street West, Downtown Brockville Box Office Hours: Mon-Fri A tribute to the Outlaws of Country Music – 10am to 5pm; Sat 10am to 3pm Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson & Johnny Cash. Wednesday, August 14 at 8:00 p.m. bac@brockville.com Thursday, August 15 at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. www.brockvilleartscentre.com Sponsored by BROCKVILLE DENTURE CLINIC
THE HIGHWAYMEN TRIBUTE
SUMMER PROGRAMS 2019 Come out to enjoy fun and activities at
SAND BAY COUNTY PARK, CHARLESTON LAKE NATURE CAMP: July 8 – 12 (9 am – 3 pm) For children from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5, this camp has games, crafts and activities with emphasis on the environment and the natural surroundings of Charleston Lake. ADVENTURE CAMP: July 15 – 19 (9 am – 3 pm) For children from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5. discover , explore and create at this adventure packed camp.
SPORTS CAMP: July 22 – 26 (9 am – 3 pm) For children from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5, this camp has land and water sports, along with fitness activities and games with an emphasis on fun, while learning important skills. Camp programs are very affordable and subsidized by the Charleston Lake Association. Camp fees are $80 for Charleston Lake Association and $120 for non-members.
RegistRation FoRms available online at: www.charlestonlakeassociation.com ContaCt: Mary Mansworth at mmansworth@truespeed.ca
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Wednesday, May 1, 2019 THE MURAL Page 19
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Athens A.A. group in its 15th year by
1000 Islands Helicopter Tours partnered with Centennial Road Church in Lyn to provide a gigantic Easter Egg drop on Easter Sunday.
Ethan Harper found the “Golden Egg” at Centennial Road Church’s Easter Egg event. He is pictured with his sister Keisha who he decided should have his prize, a free week of My Summer Rocks Camp.
Sally Smid
Any visit with a member of Alcoholics Anonymous would reveal the tragic hurt, despair and brokenness that results from alcohol addiction. Some drink to relax or feel good, while others may use it to cope with physical or mental stress. It often leads to major personal, family, and community problems. For those who admit they need help and are seeking to change addictive behaviours, much help and support is available. A.A. began in 1935 in Akron, Ohio with Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, both alcoholics. They became involved with a fellowship group headed by Dr. Samuel Shoemaker, that emphasized spiritual values in daily living. Bill achieved sobriety and then helped Dr. Bob find recovery. Bill declared alcoholism to be an illness of mind, emotions and body that Dr. William Silkworth helped him to understand when he was his patient in a New York hospital. This was the beginning of A.A. and recovery groups began to grow with “The Twelve Steps of Recovery” at its core. The A.A. Foundation opened an office in New York to handle inquiries and distribute information. Today A.A. has become truly global and transcends barriers of race, creed and language. An A.A. group now in its 15th year meets Tuesdays at St. Denis Church. Meetings are conducted in strictest confidentiality. One member recalls his unhappy life of addiction, explaining that he drank to forget the bullying he endured as a child as a result of his facial disfigurement. He continually sought relationships to gain acceptance and escape from loneliness. His drinking was damaging his family and guilt compounded his problem, leading to fighting, brokenness and crime. He finally connected with A.A. “At first you talk about alcohol and then just about living a better life,” he explains. “It begins with admitting that your life is out of control, talking to someone and then understanding who you are,” he explains. After asking God for help, things began to turn around. He has now been sober for 25 years! Another person saved from addiction recalls a young niece that was saved through A.A. “Thousands of others have been rescued from this dreadful addiction,” she reports. “It is a lifeline for families as well.” Whole families can receive needed support and strategies as they strive to deal with addictive behaviours. Alcohol is a very real problem for so many in our communities. Members are convinced that A.A. is a valuable program that changes lives and can bring happiness, wholeness and productivity into the lives of addicts, their families and communities.
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Over 300 kids had a chance to harvest 10,000 eggs that were dropped from a helicopter on Easter Sunday on a field behind Centennial Road Church. Photos/captions by Sally Smid.
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(L-R) Family members Wyatt and Hilary Gray, Bryce Earl, and Dianne and Phil Gray all helped make the renowned Athens chip wagon such a success for 40 years.
Forty years of fantastic fries Story and photo by Sally Smid
The famed “Athens Chip Wagon” has come a long way. Beginning with a remodeled 1956 school bus, it is now the modern Ben’s Country Canteen and is celebrating its 40th year. Once placing 5th out of 80 chip wagons in an area competition, the popular canteen later had a visit from CTV News. “Ben was the name printed on an original chip wagon, and we just kept the name,” explained former proprietor Dianne Gray. Noted for its superior fries and poutines, it moved in recent years from Main Street and is located close to Centre 76. It holds many memories for area residents and visitors. Crystal Watt was the winner of the opening day draw for a $40 gift certificate. Owner Phil Gray has announced that he now has a new mobile trailer, “Farmersville Street Eats and Much More...” The mobile canteen will be appearing in a variety of upcoming locations and events. After 40 years, the business seems to be going stronger than ever!
www.leedsgrenville.com EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WEEK May 5 - May 11, 2019
Emergency Preparedness Week is a Canada-wide initiative to increase awareness of individual & family preparedness.
The Emergency Management & Civil Protection Act requires all municipalities to have a plan that outlines how it will respond to emergencies within its jurisdiction. Please check your local municipality’s website for your local Emergency Plan. KNOW THE RISKS This is an important part of being prepared during a natural disaster. Know the risks in your area & start to prepare. You should be aware of hazards that can trigger emergencies, such as bomb threats, chemical spills or infectious disease outbreaks.
WHAT DOES “SHELTER IN PLACE” MEAN? Get Inside, Stay Inside If local officials tell you to “stay put,” act quickly. Listen carefully to local radio/TV stations for instructions, because the exact directions will depend on the emergency. You should:
• Get inside. Bring your emergency supplies, & pets, if possible. • Find a safe spot in this location. The spot depends on the
emergency, and stay put until officials say it is safe to leave. For more information, visit emergency.cdc.gov/shelterinplace.asp
MAKE A PLAN It will help your family to have an emergency plan & know what to do in case of an emergency. Your family may not be together when an emergency occurs. Plan how to meet or how to contact one another & discuss what you would do in different situations. To help fill out your home emergency plan, visit emergencymanagementontario.ca/english/beprepared/beprepar ed.html
BUILD A KIT In an emergency, you will need to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Your kit needs to be easy to carry & in a location that your family knows where it is. For items in an Emergency Kit, visit emergencymanagementontario.ca/english/beprepared/beprepar ed.html USING TECHNOLOGY DURING A DISASTER • Use texting, email or social media to communicate. • If you need to call, talk briefly to conserve phone battery. • Unable to call? Wait 10 seconds before redialing to reduce network congestion. Remember cordless phones will not work in outages. Keep a corded phone in your home. • Keep extra batteries or a charger for your mobile device. • Keep your contact list updated.
ALERT READY In addition to TV & radio alerts, compatible mobile devices are able to receive emergency alert notifications from the Alert Ready system. Find out if your device is compatible at www.alertready.ca
Note: If your phone is not compatible, you can subscribe to receive emergency alerts by email, SMS texts and social media. www.GetPrepared.ca
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