Manotick Messenger December 16, 2022

Santa Claus was the guest of honour as per usual as the Manotick Kiwanis hosted the annual Manotick Parade of Lights. Organizers from the Kiwanis Club commented that this year’s parade drew the largest crowd ever for a Manotick Santa Claus parade. The parade was part of an exciting weekend in the village, which included Manotick’s Olde Fashioned Christmas

Christmas and Holiday parades bring out the best in our community

On behalf of my entire team, I would like to wish everyone in the Carleton riding a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

For three weekends, we were able to participate in several of the local Christmas parades throughout the riding. The first parade was the Toy Mountain Parade in Riverside South, while the last was the Metcalfe Santa Claus Parade which took place Sunday afternoon. There were daytime parades, parades of lights, and even a stationary parade in Richmond. But the one thing that all of the parades had in common was that they brought the people in the community together to celebrate in person.

The one thing that all of the parades reminded me of is that Carleton has the most Christmas and holiday spirit of any riding in the province!

Transit system improvements

The many commuters and park and ride users in Carleton were among those across the province who got some good news last

week.

The Ontario government is providing municipalities with up to $505 million to help ensure municipal transit systems can continue to deliver safe and reliable transit services.

The funding is being delivered through Phase 4 of the federal-provincial Safe Restart Agreement.

Phase 4 of the Safe Restart Agreement will help municipal transit systems address costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic between February 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022. Municipalities will be able to use their funding allocations to cover revenue losses, operating expenses, and provincial transit priority projects, including fare and service integration and OnDemand transit.

This funding builds on the more than $2 billion in dedicated funding for municipal transit systems

that the Ontario government, in conjunction with the federal government, has provided since 2020 to help transit systems across the province respond to the impact of COVID-19.

- 107 municipalities across Ontario have been allocated funding through Phase 4 of the Safe Restart Agreement.

- Allocations for Phase 4 of SRA funding include a base amount of $5,000 plus a remaining allocation amount based on actual impacts reported through the first three phases of SRA funding.

- The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, has made up to $4 billion in one-time emergency assistance available to Ontario municipalities as part of the Safe Restart Agreement (SRA) since 2020. This funding includes over $2 billion already provided to municipalities to support public transit across the province.

Ontario Upskilling More Nurses to Work in Critical Care

The Ontario govern-

ment is investing over $4.6 million in the Michener Institute to remove financial barriers for nurses wanting to upskill to work in critical care areas of hospitals.

The funding provides free tuition for students

and all college and hospital costs, including backfilling their current roles to ensure continuity of care, and allows nurses to train to work in critical care areas of hospitals. By spring 2023, close to 600

registered

will have completed their upskilling education and will be ready to support critical care in hospitals across Ontario.

nurses

goldie

Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari and her team were on hand for the Toy Mountain Parade in Riverside South Nov. 26.

goldie continues from page 2

In addition to the Michener Institute, the government is also investing more than $9.4 million to support accelerated critical care nursing at Centennial College, Conestoga College, George Brown College, Laurentian University, Mohawk College and St. Lawrence College.

Between 2018 and 2021, Ontario added over 14,500 net new nurses. For 2022, a record number of nurses have registered in Ontario. So far, nearly 14,000 new nurses have registered in the province, of which 6,300 are internationally educated.

Ontario Unveils Plan to Strengthen Food Supply Chain from Farm to Fork

The Ontario government is building a strong, secure food supply chain and securing the province’s position as a food leader in Canada with the release of the Grow Ontario Strategy. The strategy outlines the province’s plan to strengthen the agri-food sector, ensure an efficient, reliable, and responsive food supply and address ongoing vulnerabilities through new innovations. The sector’s vulnerabilities include labour shortages, outdated supply chain infrastructure and declining processing capacity.

The plan focuses on three key priorities:

- Strengthen Agri-food Supply Chain Stability: Increase both the consumption and production of food grown and prepared in Ontario by 30 per cent, increase Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturing GDP by 10 per cent and boost Ontario’s agri-food exports eight per cent annually by 2032. This includes opening applications for the $10 million Food Security and Supply Chain Fund which will provide funding for projects such as updated inventory software, expanded warehousing to allow increased inventory levels or automation equipment to address labour gaps. The province is also

strengthening its food processing capacity and food security to position the sector for growth through the $25 million Strategic AgriFood Processing Fund.

- Increase Agri-food Technology and Adoption: Boost research infrastructure, advance the uptake of new technologies, grow the market for Ontario innovative technologies domestically and globally, and grow the use of data to support efficiencies in the agri-food sector and value chain. The province will also begin consultations on modernizing the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario Act to fuel innovation and support efforts to provide modern, relevant research information to farmers and agri-food businesses.

- Attract and Grow Ontario’s Agri-food Talent: The province aims to increase total agri-food sector employment by 10 per cent by 2032, as well as increase awareness of modern, hightech agri-food careers, opportunities for mentorship and hands-on job training, and support efforts to increase veterinary capacity in underserviced areas of the province. This includes launching public consultations to explore opportunities to modernize the Veterinarians Act as part of the plan to increase access to veterinary care in Ontario.

The Grow Ontario Strategy was informed by the insights of farmers, Indigenous community representatives, food sector leaders and businesses. The government is also working to reduce duplication and unnecessary burden and is encouraging the agri-food sector to submit their best ideas to reduce legislative and regulatory barriers to help enable a stronger supply chain.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is expanding international trade markets for agri-food businesses by embarking on a trade mission with businesses to Japan and Vietnam in February 2023.

Ontario’s agri-food sector contributes $47 billion in GDP to the provincial economy, representing 6.4 per cent of total Ontario GDP.

Food and beverage processing is the province’s largest manufacturing sector in terms of GDP and one of the largest in North America. The Grow Ontario Strategy goal is to increase food and beverage GDP by 10 per cent by 2032.

Ontario’s agri-food sector employs more than 750,000 people, accounting for one-in-ten jobs in the province.

Ontario’s 48,346 farms produce over 200 different commodities.

Ontario Celebrating Outstanding Contributions of Volunteers

The Ontario government is recognizing 4,555 Ontarians with a Volunteer Service Award, an annual award honouring the ex-

ceptional contributions of individuals providing dedicated service to a single organization. Recipients of the award were celebrated at a virtual ceremony yesterday and will receive a personalized certificate and lapel pin to acknowledge their years of service.

Recipients of the 2022 Ontario Volunteer Service Award support a wide range of organizations and causes, including those serving families, children and youth, vulnerable people, hospitals, senior centres and food security

programs. These volunteers also help as board members, in fundraising, in promoting the arts and promoting the different cultures that make Ontario unique.

For more information about the program or to submit a nomination, please visit the Ontario Volunteer Service Award webpage.

Since 1986, more than 250,000 volunteers have been recognized through the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. Adult volunteers are recognized for five to 65+ years of continuous service in five- year

increments.

Youth volunteers are recognized for two or more years of continuous service.

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.

- Goldie Your voice at Queen’s Park

Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari and the Firefighting Ghostbusters greeted spectators at the Manotick Parade of Lights Fri., Dec. 2.

Events, Mahogany Dock among highlights for outgoing BIA Chair

There were highs, lows and an historic challenge thrown at Dr. Salima Ismail, but she is thankful for the eight years she served as Chair of the Manotick BIA.

Ismail finished her second and final turn as the BIA Chair last month. During her time as Chair, she saw Manotick’s events grow and flourish, and she saw the community rally and support the business community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Looking back over the last two or three years, it’s incredible that Manotick lost

only one business due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.

Dr. Ismail is the owner and operator of Manotick Chiromax. She had been the President of the Rideau Chamber of Commerce. When she became the Chair of the Manotick BIA in 2014, she said there was a learning curve.

“There was a lot to learn,” she said. “It took a couple years. There was a lot of back and forth with the city – what we can do and what we can’t do – and what the role of the

Chair was.”

One of the directions that the BIA went in during those eight years was to become very event-driven. The strategy of the board was to attract local shoppers and visitors alike to experience everything that the Manotick business community had to offer, from shops and restaurants to services to other amenities and attractions. While the Manotick BIA focused on five different major events each year, A Taste of Manotick emerged as a late summer showcase for everything the village had to offer.

“Focusing on events was very intentional,” she said. “We wanted to put feet on the street, and events were the best way to do that.

Rock the Dock Ismail said that in eight years, she attended every BIA event in the village. She wanted to experience the events first hand, and she loved to see them get better and better over the years.

“I think my favourite day was when we had A Taste

of Manotick and the official opening of the dock on the same day,” she said. “I remember the boats playing music and coming in to ‘rock the dock!’”

Seeing the Mahogany Dock project completed was the highlight of Ismail’s tenure as BIA Chair.

“The dock project was the white elephant in Manotick for what seemed like forever,” Ismail said. “I remember a conversation I had with Ken Gordon and he told me that

the idea for a dock had been talked about since 1965. I was really excited one day when Anne Robinson came and said, ‘let’s get your support, let’s get this going!’ We were raising money for the project through events like Chick Time in the ‘Tick. It was really exciting to be a part of it, and it was exciting to see it through and be a part of the opening ceremonies.”

The dock was officially launched Sat., Aug. 17, 2019 just before the start of the

BIA’s A Taste of Manotick promotion in the village.

The Mahogany Dock Initiative was imagined in 1995 through an extensive community visioning exercise. The journey since then was not without its challenges. It’s goal was that both local residents and visitors would come to appreciate and enjoy the amenities at the new Mahogany Harbour Landing and its many benefits for the Village.

Dr. Salima Ismail says that being a part of the Manotick Mahogany Dock project was one of the biggest highlights of her tenure as Manotick BIA Chair.

Dr. Salima Ismail shares a smile with Kris Schulz during the 2016 Manotick Santa Claus Parade. highlights continues on page 5

highlights continues from page 4

“Soon after the dock was completed, COVId-19 hit,” Ismail said. “People were not able to travel. It was incredible how many people were boating and swimming. People along the water would keep their lights on for kayakers at night. The red chairs became popular – there was even a Red Chair Society that formed. It’s amazing what spawned off of one thing.”

Surviving COVID

While communities throughout Canada and urban downtowns like Ottawa were seeing 20 to 30 per cent of the businesses shutting their doors for good during COVID, Manotick had one of the most remarkable demonstrations of resilience in any business community in Canada.

Lillian’s, a Manotick hair

dressing business, was the only business in the village that succumbed to COVID. In fact, Manotick has lost more businesses due to fire in the past few years than it did to COVID.

“Not only did we only lose one business, but we also had several businesses that opened during COVID,” Ismail said. “There is almost zero per cent vacancy for businesses that want to open in the village.”

During the pandemic, both the BIA and the Manotick Messenger focused their efforts on promoting a shop local message. While that message had marginal success in some communities, the residents of Manotick and the area were all in when it came to the message.

“The fact that the business community actually grew during COVID says a lot about Manotick,” Ismail said. “It

says a lot about the strength of the business community, and it also says a lot about the people in Manotick. The community really rallied and embraced the shop local message. The support from the community really helped a lot of businesses survive something that was devastating to businesses in other communities.”

While looking back at 2020 and 2021 can be seen as a victory for the Manotick BIA and the business community, it was not an easy time. Many businesses are still rebounding from the difficult times caused by lockdowns and a change in consumer shopping habits.

“The BIA did what we could to help local businesses through that time,” Ismail said.

“There awas a lot of anxiety and panic. We had no idea how long the pandemic and the sanctions would last. There

was an incredible amount of stress.”

Ismail said that COVID actually introduced local residents to some of the businesses and services in Manotick. With so many people suddenly working from home, local businesses had a stronger daytime customer base.

“The community really stepped up to support local,” she said. “They helped every single business in Manotick. We made sure we highlighted how important it was to shop local and support the community. Some residents did not realize what we had in Manotick and were introduced to some of our businesses for the first time.”

Salima said she is happy to have served as BIA Chair for two terms and said it was a rewarding experience.

“Eight years is a long time

to be in a leadership role,” she said. “Two terms was good. My personal goal was to have everyone I dealt with to know about Manotick and what we have in the village.

“It’s on everybody to do community service at some level,” she added. “Everybody should volunteer at some point. It’s a very rewarding way to be a part of the community.”

Dr. Salima Ismail says that being a part of the Manotick Mahogany Dock project was one of the biggest highlights of her tenure as Manotick BIA Chair.

OCDSB avoids an ugly mess by rejecting school mask mandate

Local public school trustee Lynn Scott was a beacon of reason in a two-day meeting that saw heckling, warnings, security removing spectators, and Ottawa Police clearing the room before the second session went virtual.

“People on both sides have made bullying calls and written bullying emails,” she said. “But most are not.”

Newspapers matter. They are the original pure source of news. Newspapers are held to standards. They can be trusted.

Our COmmunity

The average person would assume that internet news stories have to abide by the same rules and standards. After all, people are reading many of the same news stories online that also appear in print.

honest, I wouldn’t believe it either if I heard this a year ago. But how else do you think I have so much money to throw around on new Bentleys?

“All the money I earn from my businesses goes into a trust for my kids. The money I earn from Bit QL is my play money and I use it to buy Bentleys and houses.”

Before the first of two Ottawa Carleton District School Board meetings special meetings regarding a motion to mandate mask wearing by students, Trustee Donna Blackburn warned that the topic was divisive. She told City News that the motion put forward by rookie trustee Dr. Niki Kaplan-Myrth was “just political grandstanding.”

With Canada Day approaching next week, it is a good time for us all to reflect on what it means to be Canadian.

Do we take being Canadian for granted?

According to the Ontario Ministry of Health, the school board does not even have the authority to mandate masks in schools. The directive would have to come from Ontario’s top doctor, Dr. Kieran Moore, or by Ottawa’s top doctor, Dr. Vera Etches. Moore recently strongly recommended the wearing of masks in indoor settings, but did not impose a mandate.

Better yet, how do new Canadians feel about being Canadian? Some of us look upon immigrants and refugees as opportunists, not wanting to give but very willing to take. Perhaps, for some people, that is true, but when you attend a celebration for new Canadians, such as the one hosted by NepeanCarleton MP Pierre Poilievre at Mother Teresa High School in Barrhaven last month, you can see the excitement and the thankfulness in the eyes of every new Canadian.

During the first evening of the meeting, OCDSB Chair Lyra Evans had to repeatedly ask members in the audience to stop yelling and cheering. She eventually had to have some disrupters removed from the meeting by security. At the end of the meeting, Ottawa Police had to clear the room.

They understand, perhaps better than all of us, what it means to be Canadian.

So how can the rest of us have that feeling?

For the past month, a story has appeared on the home page of the Microsoft Edge browser that breaks every rule and standard that the print media has to follow. On the home page, there are different squares which serve as teasers for stories. One teaser with the image of Carleton MP and Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre appeared. Evidently, ‘Canadians are earning millions from home thanks to Pierre Poilievre’s latest initiative.’

What on earth is this about? How can anyone from this area not click on this?

Bev McRae photo

For the records, some deep Manotick Messenger investigative reporting has unearthed findings that Pierre Poilievre does not own any Bentleys and he does not have play money to buy houses with.

The company responsible for these fake stories is Bit QL. The Bit QL app that claims it will make you very rich, very quickly. It uses false stories on reputable websites to lure readers into whipping out their credit cards and investing an initial fee of $250.

In an interview with CBC, Evans said she had legal opinions that disputed the province’s authority and that the board does have the legal authority to implement a mask mandate.

The Conservative government has a solid idea.

Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism and Andrew Cohen, President of the Historica-Dominion Institute, are challenging middle and high school students to take the citizenship test.

At the school’s 50th Anniversary Party, Manotick Co-operative Nursery School honoured its longest-serving teacher/volunteer with a memorial garden bench, which will be installed with a plaque in the school’s playground. Left to right, MCNS Director Sandy Erler and June Hodge celebrate June’s 29 years as a supply teacher, teacher and volunteer.

While trustees, parents and experts were divided, the board’s two student trustees were not. While their votes do not officially count, both Tabarak Al-Dalaimi and Antong Hou were firmly opposed to the mask mandate. Hou presented results from a survey that noted 70 per cent of students were against mask mandates.

The Canadian Citizenship Challenge, funded in part by CIC and run by the Historica-Dominion Institute, will see students study Discover Canada: the Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship and then take a mock citizenship test.

There is nothing that hints ‘scam’, other than the content of course. The story claims to be written by William Hale of Forbes.

I’m finding myself at one of those bizarre crossroads where everything I love about sports is about to collide with a large swatch of the population working diligently to grate my nerves.

Al-Dalaimi called the mandate a strong recommendation that will cause confusion and conflict.

“This will be a fun way for students to learn about Canada and feel proud of our shared history and accomplishments,” said Minister Kenney. “As we learn about our past and the people and events that made Canada what it is today, we become more proud to be Canadian. We are inspired to see how we can defend our rights and live up to our responsibilities and we feel much more strongly how valuable it is to be a citizen of Canada.”

“This motion has divided our board, it has divided our community, and it will divide our students,” Hou said. “As the motion sits, when students go to class, not all will have masks on. During lunch, an entire grade will sit unmasked in the cafeteria. Before and after school, students will sit maskless on the bus. During school sports and other activities, masks will be off. It begs the question if this mandate will give students a false sense of security. Because a mandate with a myriad of exceptions is hardly a mandate.”

“Our schools need to be training our young people to become the citizens of tomorrow. Citizenship is not only about new Canadians, it’s about all Canadians, young and old,” said Andrew Cohen. “The Canadian Citizenship Challenge will encourage students to learn more about what it means to be Canadian and then put that knowledge to the test.”

Starting this summer, the Historica-Dominion Institute will be encouraging more than 5,000 middle and high school teachers to register their classrooms for the Challenge. Each classroom will receive a set of the new citizenship guide, along with specially designed learning activities. The teacher will also receive copies of a mock citizenship exam. Students will take the citizenship exam as a class and the teachers will return the completed exams to the Dominion Institute for grading.

It’s this whole World Cup thing. Don’t you find that people are just a little too into it? I found myself in line in front of two nouveau soccer fan moms at Your Independent Grocer the other day.

FROM THE OTHER SIDE

By Jeffrey Morris

When the dust settled, the board had accomplished nothing more than to showcase its dysfunction and give Ottawa public school taxpayers a preview the type of gong show they will be supporting for the next four years. Masks will remain highly recommended, as they should. But the school board should not have entertained a polarizing motion that did nothing but cause animosity in an emotionally fragile community, especially when it’s unclear if they even have the legal right to do so.

Results will be announced by the Dominion Institute on Flag Day (February 15) each year for the next three years. For more information about the Challenge please visit the Historica-Dominion Institute website at www.historica-dominion.ca.

CIC’s multiculturalism grants and contributions program will be investing $525,171 in this 32 month project which promotes civic memory, civic pride and integration.

I was kind of in my own little mental world in the checkout line, scanning the tabloid and magazine covers and wondering what Justin Bieber’s first major scandal would be. I was just about to reenter the world after some quality time on Planet Jeff and launch into my weekly way-to-reward-your-customers-bycharging-us-five-cents-per-bag-and-claiming-it’sto-save-the-environment rant when I unexpectedly locked in on the conversation behind me.

Advertising

“I wish some of the stores would carry the vuvuzela horns so that we could bring them to Chelsea’s games,” said the mom who was wearing Crocs.

wonder about things like how come “underneath” is a word but no one ever says “overneath” when the discussion pulled me back into soccer.

“Chelsea is learning so much by watching the World Cup,” said the mom wearing Crocs. “We are studying each country before the game. She has really become a fan of Arr-hayne-TEE-na, and she even wants us to go there on our vacation next year. Perhaps we can even go to Brrra-seeel.”

The article begins by claiming that Poilievre is worth more than $400 million and that he has started a controversial initiative to teach Canadians to be independently wealthy from home. The story claims that Poilievre has appeared on Global Morning to talk about how he made $60.5 million last year using an automated system that invests in Bitcoin.

That caught my attention. Arr-hayne-TEE-na? Are you kidding me?

According to an investigation by scamcryptorobots.com, “In reality the BitQL App is a part of a larger network of cloned websites which has recently emerged. In fact, it is a facsimile copy of the previous BitQT App which we have previously exposed here on our website. This fraudulent trading platform was designed with the explicit intent of deceiving and misleading potential investors by spreading lies and half-truths about how easy it is for people who join this program to become millionaires.

The other mom – the one with the Birkenstocks – piped in.

“They are a wonderful football nation,” she said. “My husband, of course, wears the azure and cheers for Italia, but Zachary’s favourite team has been MAY-heee-co. They did a school project on MAY-heee-co last year and he has even insisted that we go to out to eat and watch the games when they are playing.”

According to the story, “Today, I want to give back and show everyone EXACTLY how I’ve made millions of dollars over the last few months outside of my regular businesses. It’s something I’ve been doing on the side, and something anyone in the Canada can do, and it’s made enough for me to buy all my luxury cars.

“Oh, I know,” said the one wearing Birkenstocks. “Zachary has a tournament next weekend and it would have been so in the spirit of the World Cup to have all of us blowing our vuvuzela horns. They lost two-nil and then three-nil. They need all of the support they can get.”

Nil? Who says nil? Really.

“Oh, I know,” said the mom wearing Crocs. “The horns are such a beautiful part of the South African culture.”

I wanted to jump in and say something, but I refrained. I couldn’t do it.

I bit my tongue.

In an effort to keep my blood pressure down, I looked out the big window at the big parking lot and scoped it out, looking for a puppy or a bird or anything that would pry my mind out of the shackles that these two soccer moms had put me in with their conversation.

A busload of seniors from a nearby retirement home had pulled up and passengers were getting off. I was trying to, in my head, name all of their walkers as an escape.

Unfortunately, they pulled me back in.

“My passion will always be to help people. I stumbled upon a new system called Bit QL that’s made me more money in the last 6 months than any of my other businesses. And the best part is, this amazing opportunity just became available to regular folks in the Canada so I have to share it with everyone.

If you are unfamiliar with the vuvuzela horn, then you have not tuned into CBC over the past two weeks. If you stumble across a World Cup soccer game on CBC, you will hear what sounds like 50,000 bees swarming the field. They are not bees. They are people blowing on cheap, plastic, gimmicky horns.

“My cousin lives in Australia, and he was devastated when Germany beat them 4-nil,” said the mom wearing Crocs.

“In other words, the BitQL App is simply another get-rich-quick scheme which is now being heavily promoted by an affiliate network that’s closing deals behind your back with scheming offshore CFD (contract for difference) brokers. When we registered to conduct our €250 test, the broker which was allocated to us was named ‘CFD Markets’ and it has a registered business address in Sophia Bulgaria. The dots started to connect for us very quickly, when we realized that our initial deposit basically evaporated in a matter of minutes and we started receiving phone calls by the dozens.”

Poilievre is not the only celebrity used for this scam. His political nemesis, Prime Minister Just Trudeau, has also appeared in similar fake stories.

The funny thing about these horns is that they have become what has defined the 2010 World Cup.

People who have been following the World Cup and people who have only seen 20 minutes of it in passing have commented on these annoying yet relentless horns. Ironically, while the world has learned to adapt these horns as the one thing they now know about South African culture, the horns aren’t really a part of their everyday lives. South African sports enthusiasts have commented that they had never seen nor heard a vuvuzela horn at a sporting event, and that the South African people find the noise just as annoying as the rest of the world does.

At this point, I couldn’t take it anymore. Mount Patience erupted and out came sarcasm lava.

“I saw that match,” I said. “I can’t believe AusTRY-lier looked so insipid against Deutschland.”

The mom with the crocs was not impressed.

“I’ll explain what Bit QL is in just a bit. But first, to prove how amazing this system really is. Carolyn, I’m going to give you $250 to deposit and try it for yourself right now.

The mom with Birkenstock’s wasn’t either, but she did acknowledge me with a response.

“Who is your team?” she quipped, condescendingly.

I did the only thing I could do, shouting as loud as I could.

“USA! USA! USA!”

“Poilievre then wrote a check to Carolyn for $250, which she deposited into the system to try for herself. Within minutes, Carolyn’s jaw dropped open as she began making a real profit - on live television!”

They turned their heads in disgust. The next 45 seconds were incredibly silent and awkward. At that point, it was my turn. The cashier scanned my Diet Coke and V-8 Fusion, and I was all set.

Unfortunately, there will be people out there who believe that Poilievre has a fleet of Bentleys. That could be seen as tampering with any upcoming federal election.

And how can Microsoft allow this? How are they not responsible for paid content like this appearing online? How has Forbes allowed this?

Apparently, some now wealthy marketing genius came up with the idea to mass produce and market these horns as a World Cup novelty. The plan worked, and now the rest of the world must endure the shrilling sounds of his quick buck.

I was just about to drift back into ADD world and

“Would you like plastic bags?”

“Yes please,” I replied.

While there is no truth or merit to anything in this scam disguised as a legitimate story, what the story has Poilievre saying next is ridiculous.

I had never been so happy to pay five cents for a plastic bag just to get the hell out there.

“Last month, I pulled in $619,830 simply by simply letting the software do its thing. Now I know this sounds too good to be true, and to be

Jeffrey Morris was the 2008 OCNA Columnist of the Year. His book, From the Other Skide, is available at Manotick Office Pro, Barrhaven UPS Store, and Pages in Prescott.

While it makes us somewhat proud that the Manotick Messenger gives you real news –something Microsoft does not – we can’t but wonder what our friend Andy Braid would have to say about Poilievre’s fleet of Bentleys and Monopoly deck of title cards for investment homes…

The truth behind Pierre Poilievre’s Bentleys, houses and play money from the other side

Sometimes it’s best just to say nil

CTF, Poilievre’s assertions that CBC should be defunded are absurd

The Editor,

How much of this extreme right-wing nonsense must we be subjected to? I was genuinely shocked to read the editorial in the last issue by Kris Sims of the infamous “Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation” arguing for the defunding of the CBC. It’s rather ironic that the CTF bills itself as “nonpartisan” and a “citizens advocacy group” while campaigning non-stop on behalf of right-wing parties all over Canada AND getting subsidized by the Canadian taxpayer through the CTF’s non-profit status. As expected, Ms. Sim’s editorial dovetailed seamlessly with the current narrative from the Poilievre camp--that the CBC must be defunded--

while taking a slightly different tack by steering clear of Poilievre’s oft-repeated and absurd assertion that the CBC has some kind of left-wing bias. According to Sims, the problem is that the annual cost to the taxpayer of $1.2 billion is simply too much. I sincerely hope that her organization will be equally diligent in condemning the $15.9 billion in taxpayer-funded subsidies that went to the oil and gas industry last year.

The problem is, at a time where private news organizations are increasingly beholden to corporate interests and are laying off their investigative journalists, we need the CBC more than ever. I suspect that Mr. Poilievre watched the CBC’s unrelenting coverage of the

WE scandal and concluded that should he become Prime Minister, he doesn’t ever want to be subjected to that kind of scrutiny, so his answer is to get rid of the CBC. But we really do need a news organization that has the resources to get to the truth. I’m reminded of the words of Patrick Meagher, the Trump-adoring, Freedom-Convoy-supporting editor of the right-wing Farmers Forum newspaper.

“I stopped hiring summer students from the Carleton University journalism program years ago when I found them closed-minded and antagonistically leftwing.” He went on to describe how he mentioned this “lack of objectivity” to a Carleton faculty member, who explained to him that

her students work very hard to get the truth, “and in their research have found that the truth is left-wing.” Her explanation was, of course, lost on Meagher, who had misinterpreted a reluctance to leap like a trout at the latest right-wing conspiracy theory as an indication that an individual was “closedminded.”

So it’s not that the CBC has any kind of left-wing bias, the problem--as explained by a faculty member of the Carleton University School of Journalism--is that the truth has a left-wing bias, which goes a long way towards explaining the absolutely unrelenting attacks on the CBC from every rightwing advocacy group in this country. In this bizarre world we now find ourselves

in, when the truth is damaging to your party it’s not the party that needs correction, it’s the truth that has to go.

Andy Braid Kars, ON

Ed. Note – Patrick Meagher cut his teeth in journalism as an intern with the Morris newspaper chain in Prescott. He is an outstanding and talented journalist and provides an invaluable service to the community with the Farmer’s Forum. Obviously, his opinions offend anti-Conservatives like Mr. Braid, but his views and opinions are very popular among his audience.

As for Mr. Braid’s opinion that the CBC does not have a left wing bias, perhaps he missed the tasteless attempt

at a hatchet job interview by CBC Ottawa Radio morning host Robyn Bresnahan when she invited local Progressive Conservative MPP Goldie Ghamari onto her program during the provincial election campaign. According to our inbox, CBC lost a lot of local listeners that day.

To think that the truth is on the left and anything to the right is misguided is as dangerous as the thinking of extremists on either side of the pendulum. As for the CBC and what many see as social engineering through publicly funded journalism and entertainment, $1.2 billion is a lot to spend to provide Canadians with what many see as a Canadian version of Pravda with little more to offer than Coronation Street reruns.

Ghamari, pharmacy industry call access to Paxlovid a game-changer

The Ontario government is giving people more convenient access to care by allowing pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid, an antiviral treatment option used to reduce severe outcomes from COVID-19. All Ontarians are strongly encouraged to keep up to date with vaccinations, which remains the best way for people to stay healthy this flu and respiratory illness season and prevent unnecessary visits to the hospital.

Starting December 12, 2022, pharmacists will be able to prescribe Paxlovid to eligible individuals in-person or virtually (such as by telephone) at no cost. Eligible individuals should contact their local pharmacy to confirm if they prescribe Paxlovid and how to get a prescription for Paxlovid.

Eligibility for Paxlovid includes:

- Symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19;

- A positive lab-based PCR, rapid molecular, or rapid antigen test (including rapid tests done at home);

- The prescribing occurs within five days of symptom onset;

- The individual receiving the prescription is;

- 60 years of age or older

- 18 years of age or older and is immunocompromised - 18 to 59 years old and at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes including having chronic medical conditions (such as diabetes,

heart or lung disease) or inadequate immunity against COVID-19 (i.e., not up-todate on vaccines).

“In addition to getting your COVID-19 booster and flu shot, Ontarians are now able to also talk to their local pharmacist about a prescription for Paxlovid,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “This expansion of pharmacists’ scope of practice is just one more way our government is making it easier for Ontarians to access health care right in their own communities.”

Paxlovid prescriptions also remain available through any physician or nurse practitioner in Ontario as well as clinical assessment centres across the province. Individuals with complex health conditions may need to see their primary care provider or go to a clinical assessment centre for Paxlovid, based on the clinical judgement of the pharmacist.

“Authorizing pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid will expand access and offer increased protection to the most vulnerable and mitigate pressures on the province’s hospital capacity,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “I continue to strongly recommend that everyone across the province stays up to date on their vaccinations as it is the most effective way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the most serious effects of COVID-19.”

Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari said the announcement is a game-changer for residents of her riding who live in rural villages and surrounding areas.

“For the residents of the Carleton riding who qualify, this announcement will make Paxlovid as a treatment for COVID possible for some who may not otherwise be able to access it,” Ghamari said. “For Paxlovid or any other treatment, time is always a factor. Sometimes for rural residents, things like getting a doctor’s appointment for a prescription or getting into the city to a clinic may not be able to happen instantly. This announcement gives our residents more options to be treated in a timely manner.”

With COVID-19 vaccines and free flu shots available to everyone six months and older and bivalent booster doses also available to those 12 and over, Ontarians are strongly encouraged to get both their flu and COVID-19 shots as soon as possible this respiratory illness season to help restore protection that may have decreased since their last dose.

“Shoppers Drug Mart welcomes the expansion of the scope of practice for pharmacists to prescribe COVID-19 treatments like Paxlovid to patients. With over 800 locations across the province, we stand ready to support this initiative to make it easier for

Ontarians to receive this treatment right in their local communities,” said Jeff Leger, President of Shoppers Drug Mart.

“We welcome the announcement from Ontario Minister of Health Sylvia Jones today that pharmacists can start prescribing Paxlovid to treat vulnerable Ontarians with COVID-19 infection. Our Rexall pharmacists are enthusiastic to continue the important delivery of accessible health care to Ontarians during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mona Sabharwal, Senior Vice President Pharmacy Services, Rexall.

According to the province, individuals who are part of higher risk groups and who have COVID-19 symptoms should immediately seek testing and care by contacting their health care provider, visiting a clinical assessment centre, calling Health Con-

nect Ontario at 811 or 1-866797-0007 (toll-free TTY), or contacting a local pharmacist.

Individuals can access Ontario’s antiviral screener tool to help determine if they are at higher risk and should be assessed for treatment. A positive rapid antigen test, PCR or rapid molecular test is required as part of the assessment for antiviral treatment. Rapid antigen tests will remain available for pick up at no charge until June 30, 2023, from over 3,000 retail locations in the province. PCR tests are available at any provincial testing location to eligible groups.

“We are thrilled with the Government’s announcement to expand Ontarians’ timely access to effective COVID-19 antiviral therapy by enabling pharmacists to assess for and prescribe Paxlovid to eligible patients,” said Sandra Hanna, CEO of the Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Can-

ada. “This will both remove barriers to accessing care and support the overall healthcare system by preventing hospitalizations and reducing burden on other providers.

The Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada has long advocated for pharmacy’s ability to safely and conveniently provide patients with access to this critical medication in their own communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven how pharmacies across Ontario can rapidly scale up these services, and we applaud the Ontario government’s investment in another vital tool in the public health toolbox to help Ontarians get back to a new normal.”

Clinical assessment centres continue to be available to assess patients with cough, cold, flu and COVID-19 symptoms as well as to test, prescribe and dispense antivirals for COVID-19.

Christmas Crib’ is a beautiful Christmas tradition

St. Francis of Assisi gave us one of the most beautiful Christmas customs. One December a long time ago, St. Francis was living in a cave on a hillside outside of a small town called Greccio. He had a great love for Christmas, wanting to share his feelings and help the people in the town celebrate in some special way.

St. Francis asked the people in the town to bring their animals - donkeys, sheep and oxen - to the cave where he was staying, here he also set up a crib, as there had been in Bethlehem. The people came, brought their animals and celebrated Midnight Mass to welcome Christmas Day. During the Mass St. Francis and

THis week, THIS MONTH

by Larry Ellis

the townspeople saw a vision in which St. Francis reached into the crib and picked up the Baby Jesus, whom they “saw as alive and real.” Everyone was so filled with joy and love that it is said they didn’t need torches to find their way home that night because they were “glowing with love.”

This event is said to have been the beginning of the custom of setting up manger scenes, both indoors and outside, all around the world at Christmas time.

1st Manotick Scouts looking for adult volunteers for Scouts, Beavers

The 1st Manotick Scout Group was formed with community support in 1921 and has operated uninterrupted for over 100 years. They hold Charter number 32, making them one of the longest continuously running Scout Groups in Canada. Scouts learn skills for life, self reliance, leadership, active healthy living and perform community service.

In Manotick and Riverside South, 1st Manotick Scout Group offers programs for youth from 6 to 18 years old. They are looking for adult volunteers to help

youth have adventure, fun, learn new outdoor

skills

A GREAT HOLIDAY SEASON

‘The

and connect with nature. Their

World Cup enthusiasm shows cultural mosaic of community

If there was ever an indicator of the global fabric and culture that exists in the area, the 2022 FIFA World Cup has been exactly that.

Canada made its first appearance in the World Cup since 1986, and only its second appearance ever. Canada has still not won a World Cup game after losing all three of its games this year, but they did at least score a pair of goals after being shut out in all of their games in 1986. The Canadian team also brought a lot of attention and excitement to the World Cup, and to soccer.

“It has been exciting and it has brought a lot of people out to our restaurant, especially people who have never been here or who have not been here for a long time,” said Russ Arthurs of Richmond, owner of Boston Pizza in Barrhaven.

Boston Pizza and other local establishments have had soccer fans frequenting their restaurants since the tournament began. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has extended the hours of liquor sales in restaurants showing World Cup games, with service beginning at 7 a.m. There is an eight-hour time zone difference between Barrhaven and World Cup host country Qatar. The games beginning at 7:45 a.m. local time are

being played at 3:45 p.m. Qatar time. The other start times for games have been 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. local time.

“Obviously, we were packed for Canada’s three games,” said Arthurs. “But we have had people coming in for all of the games. The one thing that is amazing is that there have been supporters for all 32 countries in the World Cup coming into the restaurant. It doesn’t matter who is playing. We have had groups of local residents who are Brazilian, or originally from Poland, Croatia, Spain, Japan, Germany, France, Cameroon – literally everywhere. We were really busy for the England vs. Wales game. We always get a good crowd for the England games. And they are all local. The World Cup has shown us exactly the kind of cultural mosaic that we have here.”

Arthurs said that the World Cup has brought a lot of people back out to experience the social part of being a fan and supporting their country.

“People love going to sports events, and going to a place like Boston Pizza or one of the other sports bars is that they get a stadium experience,” he said. “Obviously it’s on a much smaller scale than the real thing, but they get to come out and watch the game with the vol-

ume up, and they cheer, and they chant, and they sing songs from their respective countries. It’s a really great atmosphere.”

Many of the people coming out are not necessarily sports fans. They are just coming out to cheer on the country of their roots and to feel like a part of something exciting.

Arthurs said that some of the casual fans are turning into soccer fans since getting a taste of the World Cup. However, Barrhaven and Manotick and the area are becoming more and more of a soccer hotbed in the province. Ottawa South United is one of the premier youth soccer programs in the province, and many of Atletico Ottawa’s growing number of supporters are from the local club.

“People are watching and following soccer more and more,” he said. “There are a lot of soccer fans here, but there are a lot of people just getting into it who maybe started following it last year when Canada was going through the qualifying process. They are the casual fans who are going to pay attention to the Women’s World Cup next year, as well as the Euros and the some of the other qualifying tournaments. There will be a lot of soccer for them to watch in the next couple of years.”

Big event at schools

While Boston Pizza had a big crowd for the last Canada game, there were also big events and viewing parties at local high schools.

A crowd of more than 600 students and teachers were in the gymnasium at St. Joseph to watch the Canada-Morocco game last

Thursday.

“It inspires the youth and it’s just a great experience and it’s amazing to see them at this stage,” said Grade 11 student Mario Frangione in a CTV Ottawa interview. “I think now that they’re in it anything is possible.”

Despite the loss, Canada’s goal late in the first

half and a great scoring opportunity in the second half brought students to their feet with loud cheers.

South Carleton High School in Richmond was also among the schools that had events and activities planned around Canada’s

The World Cup continues through Dec. 18.

Soccer fans with roots around the globe have been frequenting restaurants and sports bars like Boston Pizza to watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

ROSSS, Old Forge launch campaign for seniors, adults with disabilities

The Olde Forge Community Resource Centre (Olde Forge) and Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS) have launched Your Story. Our Care. which was supported by the $45,800 Resilient Communities Fund grant received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The awareness campaign will spotlight seniors and adults with disabilities within the community who are thriving at home with the help of these two local non-profit organizations.

“I am pleased to know that the Olde Forge will receive a $45,800 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation” said Chandra Pasma, MPP for Ottawa West—Nepean. “The work that the Old Forge and Rural Ottawa South Support Services are doing together to empower seniors and adults with disabilities is crucial, especially during a period of increased social isolation. Even amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, these organizations continue to provide this vital support. I am happy to know that, with this grant, they will have even more resources to build on this important service.”

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested nearly $209M into 2,042 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund.

Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari added: “I congratulate the Olde Forge and Rural Ottawa South Support Services on launching their joint campaign. It’s always inspiring to hear stories of seniors and adults with disabilities living life to their full potential. We know how much COVID-19 was a barrier to accessing the important services these organizations offer, and that’s why our government under Premier Ford, through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, gave funding to the Olde Forge and ROSSS to make the necessary upgrade to ensure the safety and well-being for the seniors and adults with disabilities that use these amazing services.”

A non-profit charitable organization, Rural Ottawa

South Support Services is a champion for seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers in Rural Ottawa and area. The organization offers programs such as Meals on Wheels, affordable and accessible transportation services, social programs, caregiver services and more.

“During the pandemic, we saw first-hand how support services such as those provided by Olde Forge and ROSSS can ease the effects of isolation and caregiver burnout,” says Colleen Taylor, executive

director, Olde Forge. “This funding will help offset the negative impacts COVID has had on our organizations by increasing awareness of our services and, in turn, assist our sustainability efforts so that we are here for our communities in years to come. We hope the stories of real people in our community will resonate with others and bring increased awareness and demand for the programs both local organizations offer.”

Olde Forge provides support programs to seniors and

adults with physical disabilities in Ottawa’s West End. The organization offers fitness and social programs, technology support for seniors, caregiver resources and more.

Groups like Olde Forge and ROSSS are critical in helping seniors and adults with disabilities live as independent and active members of society, particularly as Canada’s healthcare system continues to face immense pressures. Grocery support, phone wellness checks, virtual and phonebased fitness and social pro-

grams, in-home aide, transportation, and footcare clinics are just a few of the resources available to those in Ottawa and surrounding areas.

“Olde Forge and ROSSS believe in the value of independence at every stage of life and understand the importance of being an active member of society, no matter what challenges exist,” says Kelly Dumas, executive director, ROSSS.

To learn more about this campaign, visit YourStoryOurCare.com.

MTO studying conceptual design of proposed Barnsdale-416 interchange

The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) is undertaking a Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for the conceptual design of a new interchange around the intersection of Highway 416 and Barnsdale Road.

Morrison Hershfield Limited was retained by the MTO to complete the Preliminary Design and Class EA Study for this assignment. Reasonable alternatives to address the required improvements will be developed and evaluated leading to the selection of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative(s) and a Recommended Plan for the interchange.

This Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study involves the conceptual design of a new interchange around

the intersection of Highway 416 and Barnsdale Road in the City of Ottawa. Currently, an overpass carries traffic east-west along Barnsdale Road, over Highway 416. The intersection’s current configuration does not allow for any entry to, or exit from, Highway 416.

The proposed interchange improvements are to occur to Highway 416, which are intended to accommodate movements in all directions, and to address increased traffic demands, and operational and safety concerns. As such, it is classified as a Group B Project under the MTO Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000).

The purpose of the Class EA Study is to identify a Recommended Plan for a new interchange as part of the Ministry’s ongoing

review of safety and operational needs for the provincial highway network. The proposed (new) interchange would accommodate traffic movements in all directions by providing entry and exit from both the northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 416, and is intended to address increased traffic demands, and operational and safety concerns.

The details of the proposed work will be further developed as the Preliminary Design progresses and will be presented to the general public, Indigenous Communities, provincial and other external agencies, Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), municipalities, emergency services providers (i.e., fire, police and ambulance), local businesses and property owners, interest groups and utility

companies (collectively referred to as interested and / or affected stakeholders) at a future Public Information Centre (PIC). The first PIC was made available on April 8, 2022. Details regarding the timing of a second PIC will be announced on a future date.

The City of Ottawa approached the Ministry with a conceptual design of an interchange at the Barnsdale Road intersection of Highway 416, which necessitated a Geometric Feasibility Study to develop and evaluate interchange alternatives based on two-dimensional geometric design elements outlined in the TAC Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads (June 2017) and the MTO Design Supplement for TAC Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads (June 2017). The

Ministry will collaborate with the City of Ottawa in this Study to assess interim and ultimate design alternatives and establish the footprints for an efficient design of the interchange. The Preliminary Design Study results will inform the phasing and implementation of future Detail Design and construction work.

The Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study will be carried out in accordance with the approved environmental planning process for Group B Projects under the MTO Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000). A Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) will be prepared to document the development of the Preliminary Design, including the environment-

ally significant aspects of the planning and design of the Recommended Plan.

The TESR will be prepared as part of the Preliminary Design to document the Class EA process, including but not limited to the challenge/opportunity, the project and its purpose, the analysis/evaluation of Preliminary Design Alternatives to address the challenge/ opportunity, the existing natural, socio-economic, cultural and technical conditions within the Study Area (including any constraints), development of the Recommended Plan including its major features, the consultation process and results, the anticipated environmental impacts, mitigation and protection measures that will be implemented, future consultation activities, and commitments to further work.

ROSSS and Old Forge have launched Your Story. Our Care.

Toy buying tips when shopping for kids

Shopping for gifts for kids makes many shoppers nostalgic for their own childhoods. Few adults can forget the joy of finding the perfect gift under the tree on Christmas morning. Recreating that magic for a youngster can be as joyous for gift givers as it is for kids. That’s especially so when shoppers make it a point to give safe, age-appropriate gifts.

Whether shopping for their own children or their grandkids, nieces or nephews, shoppers can keep these tips in mind to ensure they give toys that are as safe

as they are fun.

· Speak to Mom and Dad first. When buying for a grandchild, niece or nephew, shoppers should first ask Mom or Dad for suggestions. Parents will know which types of toys their children like, and they’ll also know the child’s level of maturity. Some kids may not be mature enough to play with otherwise age-appropriate toys, while others may be mature beyond their years and enjoy more complex toys than their age would suggest. Parents will know what makes a good toy and

what doesn’t.

· Learn what to look for on labels. Toy labels are great sources of information, but shoppers must know what to look for. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that toy labels include information about age-appropriateness (i.e., “Ages 3 & Up”) as well as directions regarding how to use the toy. If the instructions seem a bit complex for the child the item will be for, look for something else. Children’s toy labels also include additional information that consumers may not be fam-

iliar with. For example, toys labeled “ASTM F963” meet the latest safety standards from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. An “ASTM D4236” label indicates the materials associated with the art toy have been reviewed and deemed safe by a toxicologist. More information about toy label requirements can be found at cpsc.gov. The AAP advises that electric toys should only be given to kids if they include the UL label. That means the toy has been certified by the global safety certification company UL,

LLC.

· Avoid certain features. The AAP notes that toys that are loud, shoot objects into the air or contain small pieces pose a threat to children. Especially loud toys can damage children’s hearing, while projectiles can increase the risk of eye injuries or choking. Toys with small pieces also pose a choking risk to young children who may try to put the pieces into their mouths.

· Err on the side of caution. Consumers who are uncertain about the safety of a given toy, even after reading

its label, should err on the side of caution and only give toys they’re confident won’t pose a safety risk. Even toys that may seem safe could be dangerous to kids who might otherwise seem old enough. For example, the AAP advises against giving kids under 12 hobby kits and chemistry sets. That’s because such kits may contain dangerous chemicals that even pre-adolescents are not old enough to handle safely.

Shoppers must consider a host of factors when looking for safe toys for kids this holiday season.

Prepare the fireplace for holiday decorating

A jolly holiday season can be made even more merry with a roaring fire. Homeowners often build holiday tableaus around the fireplace to serve as festive backdrops. The mantle and the fireplace itself also may be a prime spot to dedicate to decorating this time of year.

Even though Christmas tree fires are rare, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, when they do occur they’re likely to be serious. That is why trees and other flammable decorations need to be kept clear of gas and wood-burning fireplaces and stoves. In addition, many other guidelines should be heeded to en-

sure fireplaces and holiday decor safely coexist this season.

Read labels on decorative items carefully before decorating. Be sure to only select items that are flame-resistant or retardent. Cherished collectibles and other items should always be kept far away from open flames and heat.

It pays to have a fireplace inspected and cleaned for use prior to operation, advises Doherty Insurance Agency. Rely on a trained chimney sweep, and have the fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least once per year.

Even though it may be

picturesque, do not place wrapped packages or gift boxes near the fireplace, as they tend to be highly combustible. Keep presents and other flammable items at least three feet away from the fireplace.

Do not be tempted to dispose of wrapping paper, boxes or even a Christmas tree in the fireplace. Wrapping paper contains additives that make it burn at high temperatures. A Christmas tree hasn’t been properly seasoned and could be a fire hazard and potentially contribute to excessive smoke and creosote.

Keep decorations that kids will be tempted to touch away from the fire-

place so kids do not hang out near the heat and open flames.

Fireplaces are often

a focal point of holiday decorating and entertaining. Homeowners who want to incorporate their

fireplaces into their holiday decor must emphasize safety when doing so.

Craft an entire day around tree shopping

Though retailers may begin playing holiday tunes shortly after Halloween, for many people, no date on the calendar marks the beginning of the holiday season better than the day they pick up their Christmas tree.

There are many different ways to acquire a Christmas tree. Some people prefer artificial Christmas trees that can be stored and taken out each year. Others make a yearly expedition to a tree lot or a Christmas tree farm to find the perfect fir or spruce. Historians believe a man named W.V. McGallard planted 25,000 Norway spruce seedlings at his Mercer County, New Jersey farm

in 1901, essentially establishing the first commercial Christmas tree farm. By 1908, customers could visit the farm and choose trees for $1 each. McGallard helped create an entirely new industry that now accounts for 350 million trees being grown and sold in the United States every year.

Selecting a Christmas tree may not take more than an hour or two, but there are ways for families and other tree shoppers to maximize their time spent looking for a tree.

· Bring refreshments. Couple Christmas tree shopping with picnicking if the weather is amenable. Pack some foldable

chairs into the vehicle (sitting on the ground on a blanket may be too cold) and bring along thermoses of coffee or hot cocoa. Snacks like granola bars, Christmas cookies or other filling treats can keep everyone satisfied and energized while they shop for a tree.

· Pair tree shopping with a trip to see lighting displays. Find the tree lot or tree farm and then scope out potentially scenic spots to view holiday lighting displays nearby. Neighborhood Facebook or other social media groups often tout homes that put up eyecatching displays. Ask around for addresses and plan your own tours.

· Plan a night out. Everyone may be tired and hungry after a long day of Christmas tree hunting. Plus, it’s typically a good idea to wait some time for boughs to open before decorating. Use this opportunity to dine out and return home ready to decorate. Make it a regular occurrence that Christmas tree shopping is followed by a family meal at a favorite restaurant.

· Watch a classic film. Many different holiday movies are broadcast this time of year and each enhances the Christmas spirit. While putting up the tree, play a favorite film in the background. What better way to enjoy

decorating your own tree than by watching Charlie Brown adorn his meager evergreen at the same time?

Make a day of selecting and putting up

the Christmas tree each year. Doing so can enhance the holidays and make for an entertaining way to spend time together as a couple or family.

From your local Hardware Store

Richmond Legion Branch 625 donates to Richmond Community Pavilion

The Richmond Legacy Community Association is pleased to announce another major contribution to its construction of a multi functional Community Pavilion for both public and private events in the Village of Richmond.

The Royal Canadian Legion was formed in 1926 with a membership of 50,000. The Legion’s commitment to the remembrance of those who gave their lives for peace and freedom is as valid to-

day as it was then. Today the Legion is one of the largest community service organizations in Canada with more than 358,000 members and approximately 1500 branches in Canada, the USA and Europe.

As well as service to veterans and the community, the Legion has a strong and continuing commitment in promoting Canada’s contribution to world peace, the protection of Canadian sover-

eignty and the preservation of national unity.

For more information on the Richmond Legion Branch 625 click on richmondlegion.ca.

For more information on the Richmond Community Pavilion and on how you may contribute please visit richmondlegacy.ca

Pictured (L-R) are Boyd Dulmage, Sgt-At-Arms and Brian Goss, Past President with their generous $1500 partnership donation.

Four-game win streak puts Jr. B Richmond Royals in first place

The Richmond Royals are back on top of the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Martin Division standings.

The Royals edged the Ottawa Jr. Canadians 2-1 in a shootout Sunday for their fourth straight win. Richmond has 31 points, tied with the Embrun Panthers but with two games in hand.

The win streak started Nov. 25 with an 8-2 win on the road over the Alexandria Glens.

Dylan Rorwick continued on his hot scoring pace as he collected five points on two goals and three assists.

Tyler Hames and Declan McCarthy each scored two goals with Robbie Disilvestro and Reid Johnston adding one each. Drew Russett, Jaidon Genereux and Giulio Carulli each had two assists with Shane Sullivan picking up one.

Mavric Welk made 28 saves for the win in goal.

On Nov. 27, the Roy-

als were at home to face the Char-Lan Rebels. Despite outshooting the visitors 5823, Richmond escaped with a 2-1 win.

All of the game’s scoring happened in the second period. Hames scored from Genereux and Sullivan before Alex Bergeron tied the game for Char-Lan with a goal late in the period. With just seven seconds remaining in the period, Sam McElheran notched his first of the season with an unassisted power play goal.

That was all the Royals would get against red hot Rebels goalie Maxime Mayer, who made 56 saves. Gabe Arrigo earned the win.

On Dec. 4, the Alexandria Glens visited the Royals, and Richmond skated to a 6-2 win.

McElheran had two goals with Tyler Cutts, Robbie Disilvestro, Tyler Hames and Jaidon Genereux scoring one each. Dylan Rorwick had three assists, Hames had two, and Genereux and Russett

added one each.

Mavric Welk made 26 saves for the win.

On Tues., Dec. 6, the Royals visited the Ottawa Jr. Canadians and took their fourth straight win with a 2-1 shootout victory.

Both teams scored in the first period with Danik Marion scoring for the Canadians and Tyler Cutts scoring from Rorwick with just three seconds left in the period.

For the rest of the way, it was a goaltending battle be-

tween Richmond’s Gabe Arrigo and the Canadians’ Felix Schnell. Neither team scored in the second, third or overtime periods, sending the game to a shootout.

Tyler Cutts and Reid Johnston scored for Richmond while Gabe Arrigo shut down Ottawa shooters Tyler Vezina and Danik Marion as the Royals won 2-1.

The Royals host Casselman Dec. 18 beofre the league shuts down for two weeks for the holidays.

Last-minute holiday shopping tips

Some people thrive by doing all of their tasks early. Others seem to do their best work when faced with a time crunch. The methods individuals use to manage their time at work and play may extend to the ways they approach holiday shopping as well.

There’s no right or wrong way to handle holiday shopping tasks, though Christmas Eve crowds at malls and throughout shopping districts suggest that there’s more late comers than there are early birds. The following tips can help those who typically wait until the last minute to check names off their lists.

· Utilize free shipping services. Shoppers who shop for gifts online at the last minute run the risk of gifts not arriving on time. Many online retailers charge a premium for expedited shipping. Try to stick to shopping at online retailers that offer free shipping even in the eleventh hour.

· Create a budget. When

rushing around from store to store, it may be easy to spend more than you want to. Make a list of how much you want to spend on each person, and stick to that limit for each person. Move on to the next store if you didn’t find what you need in your price range.

· Establish a time limit. Stores have strategies in place to keep shoppers in their establishments longer, hoping you’ll make impulse buys. These tricks include scenting the air with inviting aromas, putting necessities at the rear of the store, failing to display the time, and putting discounted items by the registers or door to attract shoppers. Set an alarm on your watch or phone for each store so you get what you need and get out on time.

· Subdivide bulk gifts. Think about purchasing bulk gifts like gift baskets from wholesale clubs and then breaking them down into individual gifts. This way you

can gift several people on one purchase and save time in the process.

· Choose one-size-fits-all gifts. Think about a gift that can be purchased for multiple people so you can save time shopping for individualized gifts for everyone. For example, print a personalized photo calendar for several members of your family. You also can purchase multiple subscriptions or memberships to zoos or magazines for people on your list. Streamlining gifting in this way may save money as well as time.

· Choose in-store pickup. Rather than scouring various aisles, you can shop a retailer’s website and then pick up items in the store. You’ll save on potential shipping fees but still benefit by avoiding crowds.

Some people wait until the last minute to do their holiday shopping. A few tricks of the procrastinator’s trade can make last-minute shopping go smoothly.

“Thank you for supporting your community-minded, locally-owned hardware store. It is your support that allows us to give back to the community.”

Nepean Ravens player wins gold at World Ringette Championships

to

Manotick MeSSenger

For a kid growing up playing for the Nepean Ravens, winning a gold medal for Canada would be the thrill of a lifetime.

Sara Hyami got to win a gold medal at the 2022 World Ringette Championships in Finland in November. And even though it wasn’t in a Team Canada jersey, it was still an incredible experience.

Hyami, 16, took a

couple weeks off last month to play for the United States women’s team at the world ringette championships. She qualified to play for the U.S. because her mom is from Virginia Beach, Virginia.

“Three years ago, there was a local player who went and played for the United States, and her mom talked to my mom about how I would be eligible to play for the US team,” Hyami said. “We found out about the tryouts

in Michigan and there was also a tournament in Ottawa. The US is trying to rebuild their program and they are recruiting a lot of Canadian player who have US eligibility to go down and play for them. It’s exciting to be a part of it.”

Hyami thought about what it would be like to put a USA jersey on and play against Canada, but that scenario never played out. Canada and Finland are the two elite teams in world ringette, and they were alone as the only two teams in the tournament’s top tier. The United States was in the second tier, and they won gold. Hyami won an award as the Game MVP in the Americans’ win over Czechia.

“It was really exciting to go somewhere with your team and visit another country and experience everything,” she said. “Finland is a beautiful country. I loved how they had pastries at breakfast and the ice coffee was incredible.”

Hyami has been playing ringette in the Nepean Ravens program since she was six years old. She currently plays for the Ravens U-19 AAA ringette team.

Playing in the world women’s championships was big jump for her.

“It was a great experience to play ringette at that level and speed,” she said. “I know that I improved a lot as a player because of the experience.”

A generation ago, there were very few opportunities for girls and women to play hockey. Ringette was an alternative. Now, with girls and women’s hockey programs growing, ringette has taken a bit of a back seat.

“I never played hockey, but a lot of players play both hockey and ringette,” Hyami said. “In the US especially, a lot of their ringette players are hockey players as well. They are different games. Ringette is faster, and you can focus on speed because there is no stickhandling.”

While winning gold was a dream come true for Hyami, it was back to reality as soon as she returned home and back to school.

“I missed two weeks of school, so I spent the first three days back doing nothing but school work,” she said. “It took a while to get caught up.”

Hyami is hoping to go

to Carleton University next year and will continue playing for the Nepean U19 AAA team. She is also playing for Ringette Ontario in the Ontario Games. She is also looking for another opportunity to play for the United States.

“I am part of the team

now, and I have made some great friends,” she said.

“We are all talking about playing together again. It felt a little bit different to play for the US at the very beginning, but that feeling went away very quickly once the games started. We are a team, and I am all in.”

Special

Because Sara Hyami’s mother is American, Hyami qualified to play for the United States in the 2022 World Ringette Championships in Finland.

Sara Hyami of the Nepean Ravens skates past a Swedich defender while playing for the United States women’s ringette team at last month’s world championships in Finland.

2022-23 NCSSAA high school winter sports seasons underway

With a successful fall return to high school sports, the winter season is now underway for local high schools in various sports.

The junior boys basketball season started earlier than the senior circuit.

The St Mark Lions lost a pair of games last week and saw their record fall to 2-3. After losing their opener to St. Francis Xavier 73-66, the Lions rebounded with wins over Glebe (62-32) and Woodroffe (63-62). Last week, the Lions fell 55-51 to Lisgar and 61-47 to Franco Cite.

The Lions have three games scheduled before the Christmas break, as they visit unbeaten St. Patrick Dec. 12, and then host Ridgemont Dec. 14 and Ashbury Dec. 22. All games have a 4 p.m. tip off.

St. Francis Xavier dropped their season opener to St. Patrick but has since gone on a six-game win streak. Last week, they posted a 61-43 win over Ashbury and a 75-42 win over Ridgemont. The Coyotes host Franco-Cite Dec. 14.

The South Carleton Storm has a 4-2 record after splitting games last week. On Dec. 5, the Storm fell 48-47 to PierreSavard before bouncing back with a 59-52 win over Pierre-de-Blois. The Storm also has wins over Redeemer Christian, Osgoode and Gloucester. They visit Hillcrest Dec. 12 and Brookfield Dec. 16.

Osgoode earned its first win of the season Dec. 6 by beating Redeemer

Christian 38-13. The Panthers suffered tough losses to Gloucester (53-51) and Brookfield (57-40).

Hockey underway

The South Carleton Storm will play three games in a round robin format Wed., Dec. 21 as they begin their NCSSAA boys hockey season.

The Storm will play St. Pius X at 8:30 a.m., Beatrice Desloges at 11:30 a.m., and St. Mother Teresa at 3 p.m. All games are at the Nepean Sportsplex.

On the girls side, South Carleton is off to a 2-1 start after playing three games Dec. 7 at the Sportsplex. The Storm beat Pierre-Savard 7-2 and John McCrae 5-2 but lost to St. Mother Teresa 5-1. The Storm faces St. Francis Xavier Dec. 15 and Osgoode Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. in Richmond.

Osgoode sits with a 1-11 record with a 5-3 win over John McCrae, a 1-1 tie with Pierre-Savard and a 5-0 loss to St. Mother Teresa.

St. Mark is scheduled to begin their girls hockey season Dec. 15 at the Nepean Sportsplex. The Lions face Sacred Heart at 8:15 a.m., St. Joseph at 11 a.m., and Glebe at 2:15 p.m.

Curling begins

The South Carleton Storm boys team dropped their first curling match of the season as they lost to Woodroffe 8-6. The Storm will face Franco Ouest Dec. 21 and Pierre Savard Jan. 12. Both games are at the Nepean Sportsplex at 3 p.m.

St. Francis Xavier

Pierre-Savard’s Justin Choi (72) fires a cross court pass while being tightly guarded by South Carleton’s Cooper Ralph during their NCSSAA Juniro Boys Basketball game last week.

opened their season with a 7-4 win over Merivale. They play St. Paul Dec. 15 and Colonel by Dec. 22 at the Sportsplex.

The South Carleton girls were big winners in their first game, posting a 14-0 shutout over Woodroffe. St. Mark were 6-3 winners over Longfields-Davidson Heights. The Storm and Lions will battle each other Dec. 22 and Jan. 12 at the Sportsplex.

MANOTICK

For the past eight years, i have been F ortunate enough to serve as the Chair o F the Manoti C k bia . i t was a lot o F hard work F or M ysel F , the business C o MM unity, and our volunteers as we have spent nearly three years navigating through one o F the M ost di FF i C ult ti M es in Canadian history. w ith the help and support

o F the residents o F Manoti C k and surrounding area, the C o MM unity has stayed strong and vibrant. i would like to wish the new bia board all the best M oving F orward, as well as thank the F ollowing people who have supported M e over the past eight years.

Thank you to the Manotick Fire Fighters for all their support for all the events!

Thanks to Dr. Jacquline Van Heese and Gord McGregor for helping us with the BIKE RACK projects.

Thanks to our excellent Volunteers, Wendy Eberwein, Linda Reasbeck and Margot Belanger.

Thanks to our past President of the MVCA Grace Thrasher, who helped us get our grants and some funding for Manotick Projects.

Thanks to our past councillor, Scott Moffat, thank you for coming through with the last piece to the puzzle for the Dock and for all your support to the Manotick BIA for my 8 years as Chair.

Thank you to our government leaders Pierre Poilievre MP, and Goldie Ghamari MPP, thank you for always attending out events and highlighting them.

Thank You to Bill Carroll (and his wife Sylvie Lapointe) for always giving MANOTICK a shoutout and for having CFRA come to Manotick for Bill’s Big Breakfast

I would like to thank Jim Watson. Our Manotick “Rock the Dock” was his first event, which were able to publically acknowledge his coming out, which was a big deal on so many levels. Thanks to the past mayor for always being there and supporting all our events. I will never forget

having a pancake breakfast with him at the Manotick United Church, we were all having our breakfast when he pulled out his own maple syrup! Pancakes always taste better with real maple syrup!

Thanks to the MVCA, Allan Haan, and the Soap Box Derby and Picnic in the park organizers for bringing countless families to Manotick.

For many years, we had our Manotick BIA meetings at the Miller’s Oven. Sadly, during COVID we lost our volunteer Manager, Anne Mask. I would like to acknowledge her tremendous contribution to Manotick.

Also during my tenure as Chair, a great business man and my friend, Ken Gordon passed away. It was great loss to the Business Community and to Manotick as a Whole. He championed to “Get things done” and he lit the fire to finally get the Damn Dock done!

A big thank you to Jeffrey Morris, of The Manotick Messenger, for always having The Manotick BIA at the top of mind and always giving us “EXTRA”. I have really appreciated your coverage and fairness in the Manotick Messenger. Thank You.

And a big thank you and shout out to Manotick’s un’official’ influencer, Ms. Dominique Lardy Marcotte, your support of local has been second to none.

Thank you to the Co- presidents of the Kiwanis, Debbie Mulvihill and Gary Coulombe.

Thank you to Mr. Neil Usher, Kiwanis Volunteer Extraordinaire.

Thank you to all The Kiwanis for their Excellent Service to The Manotick BIA, the gorgeous family fun parades and Dickinson Days.

Thanks to the Manotick Legion for always going that extra mile for our community.

Thanks to the Manotick Art Association for bringing people to Manotick.

A big thank you to Anne Robinson and The Manotick Parks and recreation, who was the SUCCESSFUL lead on Our Manotick Dock.

Thanks to ALL the organizers of The Chick Time in The Tick for raising funds for the Docks.

Thanks to the Manotick Community for always supporting all of our businesses, especially during COVID TIMES.

The Manotick United Church for being instrumental with Black Lives Matter and for organizing the 8 minutes and 46 seconds on main street for all to attend.

I would like to thank all our High School Students who have volunteered countless hours for all our events.

I would like to thank my husband

Hafeez Janmohamed, my son Ayan and my neice Iman Abdulla, who have been with me as my cheerleaders for the past 8 years.

I would like to thank my partner, Dr. Victoria Clarke, who took over the practice countless times when I had to go and be present for the Manotick BIA.

I would also like to thank our excellent local Manotick photographer Mr. Rod Brazier. During the past few years, we have used many of his gorgeous pictures in and around Manotick.

Lastly, to all our Business in the Manotick BIA who always step up and show up! The support from was always there during my 8 years.

Congratulations to all the incoming title holders of all the different organizations and City Leaders. Manotick is an excellent Village, as you will find!

See You Around in the Village!

Regards,

- Dr. Salima Ismail,♥ Doctor of Chiropractic Owner and Chief Chiropractor at Chiromax of Manotick www.chiromax.ca