Barrhaven Independent August 4, 2023

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lengthy rain

lightning

before edging Quebec champion Diamond Baseball of Boisbriand, QC 3-2 to win the Canadian Senior League championship. The national tournament for 15-16 year-olds was played at Hamilton Yards at the Nepean Sportsplex. With the win, the Eagles earned a trip to the Senior League World Series in Easley, South Carolina. For the full story, see page 14.

The Nepean Eagles endured three

and

delays

Save the date: YOU’RE INVITED – Carleton Community BBQ set for Sept. 9 at Richmond Fairgrounds

For the last three years, it has been difficult for anyone or any organization to plan and organize a community event.

Fortunately, the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic have been lifted, and things are getting back to normal.

The good news for us is that we can finally hold our free community BBQ!

This year’s event will take place Sat., Sept. 9 at the Richmond Fairgrounds. Volunteer firefighters from Richmond will be manning the grill and cooking up hamburgers and hot dogs, while we will also be serving up cobs of corn and vegetable samosas.

The most entertaining and multi-talented man in all of Carleton, Dr. Kaboom, will be joining us. We will also have a bouncy castle, face painting, and entertainment and activ-

ities that will be announced closer to the date.

I also want to emphasize that this is a non-partisan, non-political event. This is an event to celebrate Carleton, and to celebrate our best summer in years.

I hope to see you there!

Joshua’s Law

The media, both locally and around the province, has been very kind in promoting my Private Member’s Bill. If passed, Bill 93, 2023, An Act to enact Joshua’s Law (Lifejackets for Life) would make it mandatory for any child aged 12 years or younger to wear a life jacket or a

PFD while on a pleasure boat nine metres in length or less that is under way or while being towed behind a boat: for example, waterskiing, wakeboarding or tubing.

Even though it is not yet the law, please be sure to wear lifejackets while on the water and stay safe.

Ontario Simplifying Process to Authenticate Official Documents Required for International Use

The Ontario government is making it easier and more convenient for people and businesses to authenticate documents such as birth certificates, corporate powers of attorney and diplomas for use outside of Canada. The province is expanding this vital service to four additional Service Ontario locations across the province.

In-person document authentication services are now available locally at the Service Ontario location in Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West.

When a public document is to be used in another country, proof of authentication for documents such as birth and marriage certificates, educational diplomas and corporate documents is often required for people doing business, studying, or travelling abroad, people applying for international visas or people participating in international adoptions.

This expansion of authentication services adds to the services already available in-person and by mail at the Official Documents Services office located at 222 Jarvis Street in Toronto.

This change enables

more individuals and businesses to have their documents authenticated via same-day service in addition to the standard mail-in options which often require up to 15 business days to complete.

Expanding services also lays the groundwork to respond to an anticipated surge of document authentication requests as a result of Canada joining the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024. Once the Convention comes into effect, the province will be solely responsible for authenticating Ontario-issued public documents.

Quick Facts

- Customers can use the online document authentication portal to check if their document is eligible for authentication at any in-person location or by mail before proceeding.

- Between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, the Official Documents Services office processed nearly 67,000 document authentications and served more than 29,000 in-person clients.

Governments Strengthening Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability

Through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), the governments of Canada and Ontario are committing more than $68 million in the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Initiative (OASI) to fund three programs designed to support farmers in making their agricultural lands more productive and resilient.

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This Initiative includes the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) a $56.7 million, five-year program that will make funds available to eligible farmers to complete projects such as reducing tillage, creating water retention ponds and other projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and sequester carbon.

The Agricultural Stewardship Initiative (ASI) will complement the RALP program by providing a supplemental $5 million, this year, for farmers to modify and adapt their equipment and operating practices.

In addition, the On-Farm Applied Research and Monitoring (ONFARM) program will be expanded and enhanced by an additional $7 million over five years. This program is a continuation from the Canadian Agricultural Partnership and will

help farmers understand and communicate best on-farm practices to address and improve their soil health and water quality.

All three programs (RALP, ASI, and ONFARM) will be delivered by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA). Note that program details for the land-use RALP categories will be made available this summer and applications will be accepted later this fall.

Sustainable CAP is a fiveyear (2023-2028), $3.5-billion investment by federalprovincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared

60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by the provinces and territories.

Quick Facts

- Applications under the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Initiative will be considered until funding has been allocated or the closing date for the application period has concluded. More information on support for specific best management practices will be available via the OSCIA.

- Additional intake periods and details about eligible projects for those intake periods, under the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Initiative, will be communicated when they are finalized.

- A verified, complete, fourth edition Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) will

be an eligibility requirement for funding under this initiative. Information on options to complete the EFP is available through the OSCIA.

- ONFARM is supported by various organizations including Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, multiple conservation authorities, specialized service providers and a network of farmer cooperators. Activities led through the initiative include soil health and water quality monitoring and examining the effectiveness of different farming best management practices and how this translates to productivity.

- Sustainable CAP will help enable the goals outlined in Ontario’s Grow Ontario Strategy, which include increasing the amount of food grown in Ontario by 30 per cent over the next 10 years.

- Tackling climate change

and environmental protection to support greenhouse gas emission reductions and the long-term vitality of the agri-food sector were among priorities set for Sustainable CAP by the federal-provincial-territorial agricultural ministers in The Guelph Statement. The new Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program was designed to help achieve these goals.

Office Notice:

My office is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm. If you require assistance on any matter, please contact me at any time. My staff and I will be happy to assist. Even if it’s not a provincial issue, I’ll make sure to connect you with the proper office.

Ford announces children and youth healthcare increase during CHEO

visit

$330 million annual boost in spending expands pediatric services in communities across the province

Ontario Premier Doug Ford made the most of his visit to Ottawa, which included a stop in Nepean for a Progressive Conservative Party Caucus barbecue hosted by Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod.

The Premier announced during a visit to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario that the Ontario government is investing an additional $330 million each year in pediatric health services to connect children and youth to more convenient and high-quality care close to home at hospitals, clinics and community-based health care facilities across Ontario. With this new investment, over 100 high-priority initiatives will be quickly implemented to ensure children and youth in every corner of the province can connect to emergency care, surgeries, ambulatory services, diagnostic imaging, and mental health services.

“This new funding will provide our frontline health care partners with the tools they need to immediately provide more children with the care they need close to home,” said Ford. “We’re tackling wait times, adding new beds, and building up our health care workforce to ensure everyone in Ontario, including and especially our children and youth, have access to the care they need, when and where they need it.”

This consistent and stable funding increase will also allow pediatric hospitals to make significant increases to staffing to ensure they have the people and resources needed to prevent backlogs and improve access to care.

“Our record investments are making it easier and faster for Ontarians of all ages to connect to the care they need closer to home,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

“Increasing our investments for pediatric services will ensure children and youth in Ontario can depend on a strong health care system that is there for them now

and in the future.”

Some examples of the over 100 initiatives across the province include:

- hiring more pediatric surgical staff to increase the number of additional day surgeries and increase access to diagnostic imaging for children;

- increasing the number of people that can be seen, triaged and cared for onsite in emergency departments by investing in rapid access clinics that people can access instead of going to emergency departments during respiratory illness season;

- reducing wait times for children and youth to connect to mental health services in hospitals and community settings, including indigenous youth mental health programs and adding eight new youth wellness hubs to the 14 that are already operating in communities across Ontario to help fill the gap in youth addictions services and deliver a range of other services, such as vocational support, education services, housing and recreation and wellness;

- increasing access to both

psychosocial supports for kids with cancer and eating disorder programs in hospitals and community settings, and expanding intensive live-in treatment programs for children with complex mental health issues; and

- implementing an immunization catch-up program for children and youth in Eastern Ontario with the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario and Ottawa Public Health.

This investment includes up to $45 million from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for children’s rehabilitation services, including occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language services. The additional funding will also help providers hire and retain more staff to reduce wait times to give children and families more timely access to clinical assessments, early intervention and school-based rehabilitation for children with special needs.

“Our government’s significant investment in expanding pediatric care across Ontario demonstrates our dedication to the safety

and well-being of children and youth,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. “This funding will reduce waitlists, enhance access to critical services, and ensure families receive the specialized care their children require when they need it most.”

Through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is providing significant financial support to hospitals, clinics and communities to improve how they deliver pediatric care –ensuring that Ontarians of all ages can access care easier, faster, and closer to home in their communities.

“Ontario’s hospitals thank the Government of Ontario for the pediatric health care investments, which will help ensure that children and their families receive faster access to emergency department care, surgery, diagnostic imaging as well as mental health services,” said Anthony Dale, President and CEO, Ontario Hospital Association. “As hospitals continue to recover from the COVID-19

pandemic and prepare for an anticipated fall and winter surge, Ontario’s hospitals are grateful for the Government’s continued commitment to addressing longstanding capacity challenges across the health care system. Hospitals are here to serve, and targeted investments will equip hospitals with the resources needed to plan for new and growing demand.”

Ronald McDonald House, which is adjacent to CHEO, is receiving funding that will assist in a major renovation. They are receiving $3.1 million, which will enable them to nearly double the number of yearly stays for families with a child receiving treatment at CHEO.

“Today’s funding announcement from the Government of Ontario is a critical step forward in prioritizing the health and wellbeing of children and families from across the province,” said Kate Horton, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities. “It is through strong and essential partnerships that we can better care for our most vulnerable families. At Ronald

McDonald Houses across Ontario, we are proud to stand alongside our pediatric hospital partners and be part of the network of support for sick children and their families when it’s needed most.” Recently, Ontario has also expanded One Stop Talk, a virtual walk-in mental health counselling service for children, youth and families. Twenty-two SmartStart Hubs are already operating across the province. SmartStart Hubs provide improved access to front-line rehabilitation services for children and youth, including speech and language pathology services, occupational therapy and physical therapy.

“Ontario’s doctors welcome this significant investment in health care for our children, which will help clear the backlog of surgeries and other pediatric care built up during the pandemic,” said Dr. Andrew Park, OMA President. “The past three years have been especially challenging for children who are still developing physically, mentally and socially, so the new funding for mental health supports is particularly important.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford was joined by members of the Progressive Conservative Caucus at CHEO in late July to announce an increase in funding amounting to $330 million per year for pediatric health care in the province.

Bridge replacements on Queensway an investment for local commuters

The Ontario government has completed work to replace six bridges at three locations along Highway 417 in Ottawa. The new bridges are part of the government’s plan to build Ontario with investments in highways, roads and bridges, improving safety, reducing gridlock and supporting economic growth across the province.

“These rapid bridge replacements will help ensure that we can keep people and goods moving throughout the Ottawa region for years to come,” said Premier Doug Ford. “As our population and economy grow, our government is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in Ottawa’s road and highway system. We’re getting it done, building the infrastructure this region needs to reach its full potential.”

The Ottawa bridges improvement project includes the rapid replacement of both eastbound and westbound bridges at five locations along Highway 417 from Island Park Drive to Kent Street. To date, the Booth Street bridges, Rochester Street bridges and most

recently, the Bronson Avenue bridges, were successfully replaced using rapid replacement technology. Work to replace the Percy Street Bridges will take place in August, followed by the Preston Street Bridges in 2024.

“Eastern Ontario is one of the fastest growing regions in the entire province and it has never been more important to build the critical infrastructure we need for our future,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “The work our government is doing to build new bridges along Highway 417 is another step forward in our plan to fight gridlock and get goods to market faster in communities across Ontario.”

The Ontario government is investing approximately $425 million toward highway and bridge improvements in the Ottawa area. Since 2018, 10 infrastructure projects have been completed, with another five underway to improve safety and keep roads and bridges in a state of good repair.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the significant investments our government is making to improve local trans-

portation infrastructure right here in Ottawa,” said Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod. “Highway 417 is a critical link for the region and by ensuring it remains in a state of good repair, we are growing the economy, alleviating gridlock and reducing commute times for residents.”

Approximately 184,000 vehicles travel along Highway 417 in Ottawa every day.

“Highway 417 is a pivotal provincial corridor for Ottawa residents and I’m grateful for the support, funding and col-

laboration of the Ontario government to achieve these important bridge replacements,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “These investments are a once in a generation opportunity to improve key transportation infrastructure for our growing population, bolster our local economy and better connect our communities.”

The bridges replacement work is being completed by Kiewit-Dufferin Midtown Partnership and includes operational improvements such as noise barrier replacement

and construction, lighting, and storm sewers along Highway 417 from Island Park Drive to the Kent Street overpass.

“Ottawa is a world-class city that deserves a reliable transportation network to help people get where they need to go. By continuing to invest in vital infrastructure, our government is delivering on its promise to the people of Ottawa to improve road safety and build strong communities for generations to come,” commented Goldie Ghamari, MPP for Carleton.

Highway 17/417 is part of the TransCanada Highway and the longest provincial highway in Ontario, stretching for more than 1,900 kilometres from the Ontario/Manitoba border to the Quebec border in eastern Ontario.

The ministry is undertaking a Preliminary Design and Environmental Assessment (EA) study for the rehabilitation/replacement of seven additional bridges at four locations along the Ottawa Queensway (Highway 417) between Metcalfe Street and Main Street.

The Ontario government is investing approximately $425 million toward highway and bridge improvements in the Ottawa area.

INDEPENDENT EDITorIal

Randomly inspecting grocery receipts is not conducive to building trust

According to a recent report by Community Food Centres Canada, the poverty rate among working-age single adults in Canada is three times higher than the national average.

In terms of grocery expenses, purchasing the same quantity of food as compared to the previous year would require an average of over $1,100 more. Consequently, individuals would need to allocate over $8,000 to maintain the same quality of life.

Some Canadians, academics, and political leaders have lost sight of the primary purpose of food companies. These companies must generate profits in order to fulfill their mission and continue operating. Profit generation is essential. Striking the delicate balance between profit-making and maintaining a food-secure market is unique to the food sector and sets it apart from other industries.

The concept of the experience curve aptly demonstrates that as a food company expands, it accumulates greater experience and achieves improved performance, particularly in terms of cost-effectiveness. This surpasses what individuals or small communities can achieve.

Large-scale farmers, for example, excel in their craft due to the experience curve. Companies also exhibit remarkable adaptability, enabling them to navigate sudden market shifts caused by climate change, labour disputes, or other socio-technological disruptions. By relying on food companies with an innovative mindset, food systems can enhance their resilience, a perspective that many Canadians have overlooked.

However, numerous market failures have been observed over the years, encompassing various issues such as the manipulation of bread prices, the imposition of “black-out” periods, the exploitation of low-paid employees, the timing of corporate bonuses, the exercise of supply chain bullying by certain grocers, and the remarkable volatility of food prices.

While making food free or implementing a windfall tax may seem tempting, it is unlikely to effectively address any of these problems. Instead, a more robust and authoritative Competition Bureau, in conjunction with establishing a Grocer Code of Conduct, holds greater potential for success in enhancing accountability within the food industry. While challenges will inevitably persist, the elimination of abusive practices within the supply chain and toward consumers is certain to contribute to their mitigation.

And abuse can be quite real for consumers. For instance, Loblaws recently implemented receipt verification in numerous stores across the country without providing a rationale for this decision. In contrast, Costco has been practicing receipt verification for several years as a means of validating memberships.

However, it is worth noting that Costco’s approach differs, as they verify receipts for all customers. Randomly inspecting grocery receipts as customers exit stores is not conducive to fostering a social contract that can build trust between Canadians and the food industry.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. © Troy Media

BARRHAVEN

Life in plastic, it’s fantastic

I remember being in the car with the kids. Ours was a world of sippy cups and using the vacuum at the gas station to clean up Cheerios that fell in the crevices between the car seats in the back seat.

from the other side

Radio Disney would be playing on the radio. Barbie World, a song that could only be created by a Scandanavian Euro-dance band like the Danish-Norwegian one-hit wonder Aqua, seemed to be played every hour on the hour. It seemed when that song wasn’t playing, we were listening to Blue (Da Ba Dee) by Italian Euro-dance one-hit wonder Eiffel 65.

Now, here we are nearly 25 years later. The world is an uproar over the new Barbie movie. I haven’t seen it yet. I don’t intend to. But if you look through the news feeds and see all of the boycotts and controversy surrounding the movie, brace yourself for the absurd.

If you thought Donald Trump made the Republican Party look bad, reaction to the Barbie movie might just stick a fork in the GOP.

Thank Gawd for the wisdom of Donald Trump’s main rival for the party leadership, Senator Ted Cruz. Had it not been for his insights, we probably would not have known that this movie contained pro-Chinese Communist Party propaganda.

In one scene, an inaccurate cartoon map of the “real world” is shown as Barbie considers a trip from Barbie Land to the Real World on a journey of self-discovery. The cartoon map, as Cruz points out, includes the ninedash line, which reinforces China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea.

For the record, the map also shows England next to Asia, with a crown on it. And the line has only eight dashes and in no way represents the real nine dash line. But it was enough to get the movie banned in Vietnam.

A spokesperson for the Warner Brothers Film Group heated up the kettle and poured some scalding hot water to quell the controversy in a statement make to entertainment site variety.com.

for the occasion. They both got slammed on social media after Ginger tweeted that this was not the Barbie she grew up with, and that Ken had a disappointingly low testosterone level.

Some from the far right then went on a public rampage about there being no faith in the movie. Come on, it’s a Barbie doll with a camper and a dream house. There is no Barbie Dream Chapple. About 90 per cent of Hollywood movies have no faith at all, so why would this one?

Themonestary.org quoted Pastor Ivan Tuttle of Tennessee said the movie was full of demonic influences, and that parents should not be surprised if their children suddenly starts to behave differently after seeing it.

The site then says that Christian preacher Kent Christmas took it one step further.

“I curse in the name of the Lord this new Barbie movie that has been released full of transexual and transgender and homosexuality,” he said, in a fire and brimstone style sermon. He then called on God to render “holy judgment” upon the film.

One of the stars of the film is transgender actor Hari Nef. Director Greta Gerwig wanted the LGTBQ community to feel represented in the community, so obviously some are boycotting the movie, claiming it is promoting the transgender movement.

Controversy is nothing new to Barbie. In 1959, there was backlash about the doll when it was introduced. Ruth Handler, who founded Mattel with her husband Elliot in 1945, came up with the idea when her daughter, Barbara, would play grown up with teen age paper dolls, and to frequently change her outfits.

Spoiler alert. The Handlers also had a son. His name was Kenneth.

It took six years for the designers at Mattel to create Barbie, and many disapproved of the plastic, curvy doll that was not the normal baby or little girl doll.

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Staff/Contributors: Gary Coulombe, Larry Ellis, Skyler Fraser, Goldie Ghamari, David Hill, Wilson Lo, Jeffrey Morris, Greg Newton, Irene Staron.

The Barrhaven Independent is published every other FRIDAY in Manotick, Ontario. Letters will be edited for length, clarity and libellous statements. Display rates are available on request. The Barrhaven Independent is not responsible for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photos or other material used for publication purposes.

“The map in Barbie Land is a child-like crayon drawing,” the spokesperson told Variety. “The doodles depict Barbie’s make-believe journey from Barbie Land to the ‘real world.’ It was not intended to make any type of statement.”

But wait, there’s more.

Matt Gaetz, a Republican House Representative form Florida, is a proponent of the far-right who seems to leave a trail of controversy behind him everywhere he goes. The New York times reported last Tuesday that Gaetz is under investigation by the Department of Justice concerning the possibility that he had sex with a 17-year-old and paid her to travel with him. So why would he not attend the red carpet reception and movie premier of Barbie hosted by the British Embassy in Washington last week?

Gaetz and his wife Ginger dressed in pink

Despite the controversy, Barbie became one of the best-selling toys of all time. And despite the controversy, the Barbie movie may be one of the top-grossing movies of all time.

Even the song by Aqua created controversy, with Mattel and Aqua embroiled in a bitter lawsuit until a US judge told both sides to “chill.” He actually said that. Who would ever have imagined that the two sides would mutually benefit from the avalanche of money through royalties that is headed their way?

When we all go back to taking kids and grandparents back to school next month, just look for the kids with laser red Satanic eyes or anyone rolling around on the floor and speaking in tongues. Then we’ll know who saw the movie.

Cue my Spotify Eurodance playlist.

The ‘L’in LRT shouldn’t stand for laughingstock

By Wilson lo, Barrhaven east CounCillor

Our LRT has become exemplary for other Canadian cities of what not to do.

Calgary took our lessons from contract and project management for their Green Line LRT (which previous Council here interestingly ignored when approving the Stage 2 contract).

Montreal studied our challenges with ice on the overhead catenary system during freezing rain events for their soon-to-open REM.

Metrolinx and Québec City are paying close attention to our current experience with the Alstom trains, as they are also set to receive those trains for the Finch West LRT (Toronto), Hazel McCallion Line (Mississauga), and Québec City Tramway.

The Confederation Line has become a case study and a profile piece by schools of project management and media publications across the continent.

The only bright point has been General Manager Renée Amilcar’s leader-

East Barrhaven

Ward Report Wilson Lo, Councillor

ship in navigating the hot mess inherited by her and the current Mayor and Council.

Responsibility for the construction and current maintenance of our LRT is through a public-private partnership (P3).

As we’re all aware, there were months of delays in construction of the LRT and the initial system testing continuously failed.

Political pressure applied by the former Mayor changed the pass/fail criteria of that testing, allowing the system to open prematurely, before thoroughly evaluating every element of the train.

But the issues started way before that.

Based on the findings of the public inquiry report, I’m of the opinion the situation we are in started before the signing of any contract—it started with the $2.1 billion price tag.

The report states the price, which became for-

mer Mayor Watson’s campaign promise in 2010, was based on a preliminary staff estimate with a margin of error of half a billion dollars and did not factor in inflation.

The firm price tag also meant elements of the project had to be costed out or cheapened.

We can continue blaming previous decisionmakers and administrators, but I don’t think it does any good to look to the past. Wherever the blame may lie, the reality is we have inherited it and it’s now our job as your current city Council to fix it for good.

What’s most disheartening is that for the period preceding the July service suspension the LRT service was particularly good. Despite bad decisions on Canada Day, the LRT successfully transported thousands of Bluesfest attendees without issue.

That would have been worth celebrating and could have marked an inflection point in our relationship with the train, but it went the other way.

The issue that caused the latest service suspension is the same as the cause of the

first derailment in 2021.

Earlier this year, RTG and Alstom proposed a plan to increase the frequency of inspections. OC Transpo rejected this plan, as it did not solve the problem.

Alstom agreed to redesign the axle assembly completely at their expense. Assuming the design, building, and testing goes smoothly, it should take 12 to 18 months. In

Fall Fair time is just around the corner in rural Ottawa

I believe that the country fair is a cornerstone of Canadian culture! It is a magical event that must be experienced by everyone at least once. Just the sweet smell of cotton floss or the sound of the merry-goround can stir up childhood memories of the country fair. It may take you back to a time when life was simpler, when there was an appreciation for things created by hand or nurtured in earth by the sweat of the brow. For many fair goers, the grandstand shows are the highlight of the fair, and people plan their holi-

THis week, THIS MONTH

by Larry Ellis

days around this event.

The first destination for many entering the fairgrounds may be the building that displays artists, crafters, experts in culinary arts that challenge judges. One display may be an array of colorful handmade quilts that have taken many hours to create

stitch by stitch. After being displayed some move on to national competitions. The organizers work hard to add new and exciting events every year to keep the show fresh.

Visit the stables in the crisp air of a fall morning and watch as owners meticulously groom majestic horses, readying them for many equine events. Maybe next-door roosters crow, and rabbits, ducks, geese and fluffy chicks nestle in the straw of their cages, also on display for visitors to critique are the fruits, vegetables, flowers,

grain crops and harvest crops. Many dollars in prize money are given out for pickles, pastry, carvings, and other things –First Place Prize Winner ribbons are a treasure to the contestant!

Fall Fairs in this area include - opening dates –Navan August 10 - Richmond September 16– Carp

September 21 – Metcalfe

September 28 – Russell

August 11 - South Mountain August 17 – Spencerville September 7.

Visit a fall fair, there really is nothing like them, you will be glad you did!

the meantime, the frequency of axle inspections and replacements will increase.

The time until then, plus bespoke testing afterwards (standard practice for the manufacturer and the customer) means the fix won’t be quick, and could take years, but I believe the increased inspections and replacements will be good for the meantime.

Confidence in the system will not come back

right away. Residents may have given up altogether and purchased vehicles and/or parking passes. In fact, my wife and I bought our first car after the second derailment. I won’t sugar-coat it. Once we implement a permanent successful fix, winning back customers and the public will be an uphill battle with weights tied to our legs. But for now, let’s focus on the fix.

Church Pianist/Organist

The Joint Charge of Merivale and Fallowfield United Churches is seeking to fill this part-time position, which entails providing music for Services on Sundays and special occasions, such as Good Friday and Christmas Eve, and working with the choir and vocal/instrumental soloists. Hours of work will vary depending on time of year and special events. Remuneration will be based on qualifications and experience.

For further details regarding the requirements for this vacancy, please visit www.merivalefallowfield.org. Applications should be sent to fmmusic2023@outlook.com by August 14th, 2023.

Barrhaven East Councillor Wilson Lo says Ottawa’s LRT has created a template for other cities in what not to do.

OCDSB recognizes local students for leadership and excellence in equity

Four students from Barrhaven’s two public high schools were recognized as the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board Student Recognition Awards celebrated excellence in student leadership last month.

Each year, the. Students are chosen by their principals and vice-principals for their demonstration of initiative, supported by the will to succeed, the dedication to finish what they started, and the commitment to achieve their personal best.

In addition, the Excellence in Equity Student Recognition Award recognizes the initiative students have taken to achieve a positive, safe, and inclusive school climate.

Please note that the OCDSB did not disclose last names of the award winners.

Naylah A. John McCrae Secondary School

Naylah A. is a formidable force of positivity at John McCrae Secondary School. She has a warm smile and never hesitates to share a happy greeting with anyone she meets. Naylah has taken on many leadership roles at the school with enthusiasm, practicality, and warm assertiveness. When the Threadworks teacher advisor needed to be away for several months, Naylah stepped right into the role of leader, organizer,

mentor, and teacher. She ran the Threadworks club of 30 students, keeping track of community service hours, ordering supplies, teaching new students how to knit and crochet, planning fundraisers, and managing the equipment. The group is very diverse, and Naylah welcomed everyone with maturity and empathy. Her generous spirit and kind nature have truly left an impact on the staff and students at John McCrae!

Mahmoud H. Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School

Mahmoud H. dynamic personality and strong leadership skills have truly uplifted the people around him at Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School. He has had an immensely positive impact on younger students, who look up to him, respect him, and consider him a role model. His care and respect for the school environment and community values have set a great example for all students!

Mahmoud has also served as club president for the Muslim Students Association, where his numerous contributions have demonstrated integrity and a high level of dedication towards serving his peers and ensuring their needs are met. He has never hesitated to give up his personal time to ensure events and activities are prop-

erly organized, and to provide support and knowledge to anyone who needs it. This promising young leader has developed and strengthened his character through team work and significant responsibilities, and he has carried each one with a great deal of maturity. Mahmoud has been a wonderful asset to the school, and his presence will be greatly missed!

Excellence in Equity Student Recognition Award nominees

Mariam S.

John McCrae Secondary School

Mariam S. has been involved in many activities and initiatives in order to promote inclusion and a positive school environment at John McCrae Secondary School. She has been an active member of the school’s LINK crew, has hosted the Remembrance Day assembly and talent show, and has served as an executive member of the Diversity in STEM Club. In all of these roles, she has been an excellent and welcoming representative of the school. As an executive member of the Diversity in STEM Club, Mariam has created a variety of fun and engaging activities to help foster students’ interest in STEMrelated fields. She has also worked to encourage all peers that they can pursue further work in a STEM field regardless of their background. She

has also demonstrated positive leadership skills in her work as an executive member, particularly by valuing their

June

contributions and strengths in the planning of activities for the club. Mariam is resilient, determined and confident, always willing to take risks and

faces challenges head-on. She readily displays an eagerness and willingness to learn, and shares her knowledge with her peers by assisting them!

July

August

September

Mariam S.

Naylah A.

Mahmoud H.

Barrhaven residents whose homes were damaged in tornado eligible for tax break

Residents of Barrhaven whose homes were damaged by last month’s tornado are eligible to get a break on their property taxes.

The City of Ottawa has posted information on what Barrhaven residents should do if their homes were damaged.

Tornado-impacted homeowners in Barrhaven may be eligible to cancel, reduce or refund part of their property taxes for the year where:

- The structure was completely destroyed by the windstorm and tornado.

- The structure on your property has been destroyed or damaged to the point that it is substantially unusable.

- Tornado-related repairs prevent its normal use for at least three months.

Homeowners must submit an application form by Thursday, February 29, 2024. They can apply online at https://ottawa.ca/ en/living-ottawa/taxes/ property-taxes/tax-adjustments-rebates-and-deferrals/ property-taxes-cancellation-

reduction-or-refund#sectioned6047bf-2f49-4027-b9fee93d6c2fe354.

They can also apply by email by contacting: taxadjustments@ottawa.ca; or by mail at:

City of Ottawa Revenue Services c/o Tax Adjustments Section

100 Constellation Drive, 4th Floor East Ottawa, ON K2G 6J8

Forms are available online, Property taxes cancellation, reduction or refund | City of Ottawa or by contacting Revenue Services at 613-580-2444. Homeowners will have to provide details about the damage and repairs, including pictures and insurance reports.

The city says it realizes the paperwork that impacted property owners are facing can be difficult to manage. If you have any questions, contact:

Revenue Services – 613580-2444 (TTY 613-5802401), Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm or Monday to

Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm (as of Friday, September 1).

The city’s Public Works staff have been working to make roads, parks and right of ways safe again. All known hazards have already been addressed, however the City continues to ask that residents report any tree, road or parks related hazards to 3-1-1 for follow-up.

Roadside sweeps are now complete. Contractors engaged by insurance providers or by residents directly are responsible for the proper disposal and diversion where possible of construction and house related debris.

Please ensure that any debris is kept separate when placing tree and yard debris related to the storm at the curb for pickup. Find details on how to package tree and yard debris here.

For any questions or for information on other cityrelated services, call 3-1-1.

Property damage and insurance

If your property was dam-

aged by the storm, please contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you have insurance questions, please contact your insurance rep or contact the Insurance Bureau of Canada by calling 1-844-2275422 or emailing ConsumerCentre@ibc.ca.

Most home and business insurance policies cover damage caused by some emergency situations such as a windstorm or tornado.

If you are a renter, contact the property owner and your renters’ insurance company. Your insurance company will give you direction on your

next steps and assist with clean up and debris removal. Protect yourself and coordinate everything through your insurance company. Document and take photos of any damage. Keep all receipts related to the storm, such as for hotels, food, pet boarding and supplies.

More than 125 homes in Barrhaven were damaged in last month’s tornado.

Register soon for City of Ottawa fall recreation and culture programs

Starting Monday, July 31, browse register.ottawa. ca to start planning your fall activities and PA days for the 2023-2024 school year.

Registration opens for:

Fall swimming lessons on Monday, August 14 at 9 pm

All other fall activities and PA days on Wednesday, August 16 at 9 pm

Take fun to new heights by sharpening your skating, swimming or fitness skills. Try a group sport and learn leadership and fair play skills on and off the rink, court or field. Nurture your love of the arts through painting, dancing, music or cooking. Improve your social wellbeing and mental health through yoga, Pilates, martial arts and other mindfulness practices.

The City has programs for all ages and skill levels, in English and French, inperson and virtual.

Discover the arts

Bring the arts to life this fall with art courses at our two professional arts centres!

At the Shenkman Arts Centre, register to taste or dance your way through the world. Experience the flavours of Thailand, Europe and Latin America with a cooking class, or choose from a var-

iety of dance classes for all ages, including belly dancing, Argentine tango, ballet and ballroom.

At the Nepean Visual Arts Centre, children and adults alike can discover a variety of techniques, from learning how to paint and draw with watercolors and acrylics, to working with clay in a pottery class.

Attend virtually

Want to stay active but can’t attend in person? All you need is reliable internet and a computer or tablet with video and microphone capabilities. Choose from a wide range of virtual fitness, art, martial arts, cooking, junior science and technology programs for children and many more activities. Starting this fall, try our new hybrid classes offered at the Routhier Community Centre. Join online or in-person and find that balance you’re looking for.

PA days and before and after school care

When school’s out, keep kids between the ages of 4 to 12 busy with crafts, games and the opportunity to make new friends. Register for the upcoming school year PA days on August 16. Regis-

tration for before and after school care is already open.

New for September, parents can book single days for after school programs. And for children who need a little extra help, the City’s Inclusive Recreation team provides integration support. Visit Inclusive Recreation to learn more about Shared Care 1:1 support.

Tony Graham Recreation Complex –Kanata

Looking for activities at the Kanata Recreation Complex? The facility’s name has now been changed thanks to the generous sponsorship by Tony Graham Automotive Group. Starting July 31, search for “Tony Graham Recreation Complex – Kanata” to find all the programs offered there this fall.

Registration tips

To create an account, visit register.ottawa.ca, submit your email address and create a password. Next, add your family members and be sure to save your credit card information when creating your new account. Adding these details in advance makes checkout much easier.

Once your account is set up, bookmark your preferred

activities in a wish list for quick retrieval on registration night. 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 recreation centre. Be sure to bookmark a few

activities just in case your first choice is full.

For more information visit Ottawa.ca.

Never miss a registration date and get the most up to date information on City recreation and culture programs by subscribing to DiscoverRec.

For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with the city through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Learning how to paint is one of many activities you can do this fall in Ottawa.

SHOP and dine LOCaL

Cold hard facts on the melting popularity of ice cream in Canada

By Sylvain CharleBoiS

Ice cream, widely regarded as a beloved treat for the masses, is experiencing a steady decline in demand within the Canadian market. Although retail ice cream sales are on the rise, the overall demand, encompassing both retail and service outlets, displays a concerning trend of diminishing popularity.

Over the past few decades, the quantity of available ice cream in Canada has experienced a significant reduction, serving as a surrogate marker for individual ice cream consumption. Statistics Canada indicates that approximately 40 years ago, the average Canadian consumed around 12 litres of ice cream per year. This figure has decreased to a mere 4.5 litres, signifying a substantial shift in the demand landscape.

Notably, the present level represents less than half of the per capita consumption recorded in 1970, when each Canadian had access to 12.71 litres of ice cream annually. A similar trend in the United

States indicates broader implications for North American ice cream markets.

The observed decline in ice cream consumption may be attributed to evolving dietary preferences and health-related apprehensions. An increasing awareness of food allergies and intolerances has prompted individuals to re-evaluate their consumption of ice cream, leading some to eschew traditional ice cream retail outlets altogether.

Furthermore, the perception of ice cream as a caloric indulgence characterized by high sugar and fat content has positioned it unfavourably among health-conscious consumers. The advent of healthier treat alternatives has further diminished ice cream’s allure, and the 2019 iteration of Canada’s food guide, with its reduced emphasis on dairy products, including ice cream, may have compounded these effects.

2020 witnessed a transient surge in ice cream demand, colloquially termed the “COVID ice cream bump,” wherein ice cream consumption spiked by over

a litre per person within a single year, primarily attributed to in-home indulgence during pandemic-related lockdowns. Nevertheless, these levels have since returned to pre-pandemic figures, suggesting that the pandemic’s influence on ice cream consumption was fleeting.

Demographic changes are instrumental in shaping ice cream consumption patterns. With a decline in the number of children and the prevalence of smaller households, the conventional appeal of ice cream parlours as family destinations has diminished. Conversely, adults continue to enjoy occasional treats, albeit with greater health consciousness influencing their consumption behaviour.

Additionally, the ice cream market faces heightened competition from an array of frozen dessert options, such as frozen yogurt, gelato, and sorbet, which cater to evolving consumer preferences. The diversification of ice cream offerings, featuring elaborate toppings and ingredients, further complicates consumer choices compared to the more straight-

forward options available in the past.

The contemporary lifestyle, characterized by time constraints and a preference for convenience, may also contribute to the declining demand for ice cream, as consuming ice cream requires a significant investment of time and attention.

Moreover, while overall consumer prices have risen

since June 2022, ice cream prices have witnessed a surprising decline of 3.4 percent since the onset of summer, as reported by Statistics Canada’s recent Consumer Price Index. Despite this favourable pricing trend, the demand for ice cream has yet to register a significant resurgence.

The declining demand for ice cream in Canada em-

bodies a nuanced interplay of factors, encompassing shifting dietary preferences, health concerns, demographic dynamics, intensified market competition, and the brief impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. But it is the summer, after all; there is nothing wrong with treating yourself to some ice cream.

© Troy Media

CLUES ACROSS

1. Indicates tire pressure

4. Request

7. Clairvoyance

10. 007’s creator

11. Adult male

12. Scandinavian god of battle

13. Cloths spread on a coffin

15. Breeze through

16. Ladyfish genus

19. It’s good to take them

21. Noble-governed territory

23. Members of U.S. Navy

24. Card game resembling rummy

25. Affected by injury

26. Member of a Semitic people

27. Left

30. Woman’s cloak

34. S. American plant

35. Prohibit

36. Offense

41. Dish soap brand

45. Ottoman military commanders

46. Ancient Greek City

47. Makes unhappy

50. Discuss again

54. Medical instrument

55. Promote

56. A beloved carb

57. Tag the base runner to get him out

59. Prehistoric people

60. Large African antelope

61. Vehicle

62. Georgia rockers

63. Scientific instrument (abbr.)

64. A major division of geological time

65. Attempt

CLUES DOWN

1. Plant of the nettle family

2. Fit to be sold

3. Rather

4. Collected

5. A baglike structure in a plant or animal

6. Patella

7. Ageless

8. Lists of course requirements

9. Pokes at

13. TV network

14. They __

17. Cooking hardware

18. U.S. Army title

20. Iron-containing compound

22. Swiss river (alt. spelling)

27. Former French coin

28. Electronic countermeasures

29. Taxi

31. Helps little firms

32. Woeful

33. Midway between northeast and east

37. Glowing

38. Tasks which should be done

39. An informal body of friends

40. Intrinsic nature

41. Neural structures

42. Brews

43. Where ships unload cargo

44. Singer

47. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.)

48. Southwest Scotland town

49. Most worthless parts

51. Viscous

52. Put to work

53. Old world, new

58. Swiss river

Eagles at Senior League World Series after winning Canadian championship

Barrhaven may not have world class transit, but we have a world class baseball team.

The East Nepean Eagles are in Easley, South Carolina this week for the Senior League World Series. They will be competing against the top teams of 15-16 year olds from around the globe.

“Obviously we are playing every game to win, but I told the boys that winning is not the most important thing here,” said Eagles coach Matt Beelen. “The most important thing is for the boys to really enjoy the week and to have the time of their lives. How many people in Barrhaven, or anywhere, get to say that they played in a World Series? They are going to meet people and make friends from around the world. They will remember this week for the rest of their lives.”

The Eagles earned the trip to the World Series by winning the Canadian championship last week at Hamilton Yards at the Nepean Sportsplex. After round robin play, the Eagles beat the Quebec provincial champion Diamond Baseball from the Montreal suburb of Boisbriand 3-2 in a game

that featured three different weather delays.

To advance to the final, the Eagles beat Ontario champion Oakville in extra innings.

“We were District 2 champions, but we were not allowed to play in the provincials,” Beelen said. “As the host team for the nationals, we got an automatic berth.”

Beelen said there were advantages and disadvantages from going straight from the West Ottawa district level to the Canadian championships.

“It would have been a good tune up for us to play in the provincials,” he said.

“But the advantage was that we could watch the other teams play and get to know them, while they did not get a chance to see us before the tournament.”

Beelen’s son Nolan pitched the Eagles to a 7-1 win over Oakville in the round robin game. The two teams faced each other in the semi-finals.

It was in the semi-final that the Eagles showed their grit and character. Oakville rallied for four runs in the top of the fourth inning off starter Charlie McDougall.

The Eagles fought their way

back into the game. Because there is a pitch count with each pitcher only allowed to throw so many pitches in a game, the Eagles used a strategy of taking Oakville’s starting pitcher deep into the count in every at bat.

The Eagles took advantage of walks and errors in the bottom of the fourth inning for a pair of runs. They tied the score with a pair of runs in the bottom of the sixth inning as Oakville walked in both runs with the bases loaded.

“They committed a few errors and they were walking batters,” Beelen said.

Oakville pitchers walked seven batters in the game.

With the score tied 404 after seven innings, the game went into extra innings. McDougall had exhausted his pitch count, and Reid Maika same in to pitch the eighth. He gave up a two-out single but struck out the next batter to set the stage for the Eagles.

In the bottom of the inning, catcher Justin Morris singled and stole second base to get in scoring position. Maika singled to left centre field and walked it off with an RBI single.

The win set up the final

between the Quebec champions and the Eagles. Dia-

mond Baseball had gone undefeated in the round robin.

Charlie McDougall makes contact for the Eagles. He was a standout both on the mound as a pitcher and as a third baseman during the Canadian championships. Barr

nolan Beelen follows through on a pitch against oakville. Barr

after three delays, the Eagles finally came out on top, defeating Diamond Baseball for the Canadian championship.

eagles continues on page 15

eagles continues from page 14

“They scored a lot of runs and the other teams were intimidated by them,” Beelen said. “We had already beaten them twice in tournaments this year.”

In their round robin game, the Eagles and Diamond were tied 6-6 when rain suspended the game and forced them to continue it the next day. Diamond won 9-6.

“At that point in the tournament, we already knew we would finish either second or third in the tournament and that we would be playing Oakville,” Beelen said. “We decided to save our starting pitchers and they scored three runs.”

In the final, the weather was a challenge as there were three long delays. Lightning caused a 45-minute delay, and then a downpour of rain caused

another delay. More lightning caused another long delay.

Beelen did not want his players focused on the weather, as both teams were dealt the same situation,

“I didn’t want the weather to be an excuse,” he said. “They stayed loose and upbeat through the delays. They handled it very well.”

The Eagles took a 1-0 lead in the second inning. Starting pitcher Nolan Beelen walked, stole second, and then scored on Owen McBane’s double into the gap in left-centre.

Diamond rallied in the third, loading the bases with the heart of their order coming up. They scored two runs, but Beelen reared back and served up three ground balls.

“We were only down 2-1 at that point, but it could

have been 4-1 or 5-1,” coach Beelen said. “Our team is built on pitching and defense. When we got out of that jam, it gave us momentum.”

In the fourth, Reid Maika walked and Evan Tao singled. Cam White drove in one run on a ground ball, and Owen McBane drove in the go-ahead run with a base hit to put the Eagles up 3-2.

Diamond loaded the bases in the fifth and sixth, but pitching and defence helped the Eagles hold onto their one-run lead.

With Nolan Beelen out of pitches, Maika came on in relief. He got out of a sixth inning jam, and then earned the save after a popped up bunt attempt, a sacrifice bunt, and a ground ball back to the mound.

For Matt Beelen, the win brought back personal

memories of playing in a World Series. He grew up playing for the Eagles, and

went to the Big League (u19) World Series with the Ottawa West Crusaders.

“I am a lot calmer going as a coach,” he said.

Beelen pitched and played third base as a player. His team was coached by his father, who has remained close to the team and was the groundskeeper at Hamilton Yards for the tournament.

“He was there every step of the way with us,” Beelen said of his father. “We are a baseball family, and this week was special for us.”

The Eagles represent Canada in South Carolina and will face a team from the Netherlands in the first round, It is a double knockout format, meaning your team is eliminated after two losses.

The Nepean Eagles rush the field to celebrate their semi-final win. Fac E b ook phjoTo/N E p E a N Eagl E s

Eagles second baseman jacob Elyea fields a throw on a stolen base attempt against oakville. b a rrhav E N I N d E p E N d E NT phoTo

pm Disco Party

Scavenger Hunt with prizes

Sunday, September 17th

9:00 am - Gates Open

9:00 am - Miniature Horse Show

9:00 am Children’s Entertainment (Kiddyland)

9:30 am Open 4-H Horse & Pony Show

10:00 am Homecraft / Agriculture Awareness Open

10:30 am Non-Denominational Church Service

10:30 am Sheep Show

11:00 am Robertson Amusements Midway Opens

11:00 am Open Junior Beef Show

1:00 pm Simmental & All Other Breeds Show

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Afternoon Entertainment Tent

Scavenger Hunt with Prizes

***Events schedule subject to change without notice***

ADMISSION General $15.00 per day

Ages 7-12 $5.00 per day

Kids 6 and under FREE!

Midway provided by: RobertsonAmusements.com

Midway Ticket Pricing Single coupons $1.75

16 coupons $25.00 26 coupons $40.00

Bracelets are available on Friday only for $40.00

For more information check us out at: richmondfair.ca facebook.com/richmondfair