Manotick Messenger December 2, 2022

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We are the right choice because we give you choice. Local philanthropist Lynn Roy is an angel with a heart of gold

By Manotick Messenger staff

There are people who take, and people who give. And then there are people like Lynn Roy.

For the past eight years, Roy has been driven to make a difference in the lives of a group of people that others see as invisible. She sees them as special and filled with potential.

Every year, Roy takes a month away from her job at the LCBO and heads to Manila for a month. She helps run a school for some of the most underprivileged people on the planet. Every penny from every paycheck she collects at the LCBO goes toward funding the school.

“We were living in the Philippines,” she said. “I was part of a group of five women who started a project. We wanted to make a difference.”

Roy accompanied the woman to the southside dumpsite in San Pedro Laguna in Manila that was home to more than a thousand families.

“They are the poorest of the poor,” she said. “They have no water, no electricity, and no opportunity. They are the forgotten children.”

After seeing the extreme conditions that the people in the dumpsite were living in, they decided to do something to make a difference. They decided to open a school to help children in the dumpsite and founded HALMS. The name was taken from the initials of the first names of the women –Helen, Astrid, Lynn, Maria and Sabrina. Two of the women are from Sweden, one is from the Netherlands, and one is from Switzerland. Roy is the lone Canadian. They did some research, came up with a plan, and connected with Miriam del

Lynn Roy, right, is a founder and director of the HALMS school in Manila, in the Philippines. The school gives children who live as scavengers in a dumpsite the opportunity to get an education and change their lives.

Rosario, founder of Birthright Educators Foundation.

With charitable donations and help from friends

PAUL’S PHARMACY

Manotick’s only locally owned Pharmacy

and family, volunteers constructed the building with mostly recycled material from the local recycle depot.

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and rest area on the second floor. These cards accepted Mon. - Fri: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sun: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 613-692-0015

Ontario Government proposes to extend gas tax rate cuts through 2023

It seems like winter arrived almost overnight last week. In a matter of days, we went from residents scrambling for a final round of golf to scrambling to book an appointment for their snow tires.

Another sign that winter is on its way is the number of Christmas celebration events. My team and I are looking forward to the Manotick Santa Claus Parade Fri., Dec. 2 and the Metcalfe Santa Claus Parade Sun., Dec. 11. The Osgoode Village Parade of Lights also takes place Fri., Dec. 2, while the Richmond Christmas Parade is a drivethru parade at the Richmond Fairgrounds Sat., Dec. 3.

Extending gas tax cuts

As part of its plan to help keep costs down for Ontario families and businesses, the government’s 2022 Fall Economic Statement proposes legislation that would, if passed, extend the current

gas and fuel tax rate cuts to December 31, 2023.

The proposed extension of the gas and fuel tax rate cuts for an additional year would save Ontario households $195 on average between July 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023. This extension follows legislation passed this spring that cut the gas tax by 5.7 cents per litre and the fuel tax by 5.3 cents per litre for six months, from July 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.

The proposed extension to the gas and fuel tax rate cuts builds on the government’s other measures to help keep costs down for families and businesses, including:

- Cutting costs for mil-

lions of Ontario vehicle owners by refunding licence plate sticker renewal fees paid since March 2020.

- Enhancing the Lowincome Individuals and Families Tax (LIFT) Credit to provide claimants of the credit up to $875 in tax relief, as of 2022.

- Providing additional tax relief for workers, families and seniors through the Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit, the Ontario Jobs Training Tax Credit, the Ontario Childcare Access and Relief from Expenses (CARE) tax credit, and the new Ontario Seniors Care at Home Tax Credit.

- Delivering both nearterm solutions and long-term commitments to build more homes faster to put home ownership within reach for all Ontario families, through the government’s housing supply action plans.

Ontario Preparing More Students for Careers in the

Skilled Trades

The Ontario government is investing $4.8 million to expand the dual credit program, helping prepare more students for the jobs of tomorrow by better connecting learning in the classroom to good-paying jobs. The expansion of the program will create opportunities for an additional 2,200 students to earn college credits and take apprenticeship training while still in high school and help to build interest in skilled trades as a rewarding career.

Ontario’s dual credit programs support eligible secondary students to take college courses or apprenticeship training that count towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and a postsecondary certificate, diploma, degree or a Certificate of Apprenticeship. High school students taking dual credit courses benefit from a variety of college supports and services as well as

the supervision and support of their dual credit teacher at their school. Additional Training Delivery Agents, including trade unions, will now be included in the delivery of Dual Credit Level 1 Apprenticeship training programs.

With one in three journeypersons today being over 55 years of age, the next generation of workers must emerge to fill critical labour shortages. Currently, 100,000 construction trades workers will be needed by the end of the decade to deliver Ontario’s ambitious $160 billion plan to build critical infrastructure, housing and transit.

The government is also expanding the dual credit program to attract 420 students over two years into Early Childhood Education career pathways, which is critical to ensuring qualified workers enter the sector as demand rises following the implementation of Ontario’s

plan to improve affordability and accessibility.

For the 2023-24 school year the dual credit program expansion will include:

- An additional 400 students in apprenticeship inclass training

- An additional 400 students in technological education college courses

- An additional 180 students in Early Childhood Education college courses

Since 2019, the Ministry of Education has taken action to increase awareness of and exposure to technology, the skilled trades and the apprenticeship pathway by:

- Modernizing curriculum, including the revised Math, Science, and Career Studies courses including mandatory learning about the skilled trades.

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- Providing early and ongoing exposure to skilled trades through experiential learning, like co-op education.

- Delivering job skills programs, like Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), in high schools for students to apply their learning across 19 economic sectors including construction, food processing, manufacturing and transportation.

The expansion of the dual credit program is part of the next steps in Ontario’s Plan to Catch Up and ensures students have exposure and access to learning opportunities to consider skilled trades as a future career.

Governments Strengthen Biosecurity at Ontario Poultry Operations

The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $1.5 million through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership to help eligible non-supply-

managed poultry operations and related agri-businesses increase biosecurity efforts to reduce the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza.

The Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative is a new, cost-share initiative to assist eligible non-supplymanaged poultry and waterfowl farmers, meat processors in the sector and other related businesses in taking a variety of actions to increase biosecurity and reduce the risk of disease. Eligible poultry and waterfowl farmers are those non-supplymanaged operations with flocks of at least 300 birds.

This program was developed following discussions with poultry farmers and is intended to support farmers in their biosecurity efforts. This initiative builds on other actions the government has taken to support the sector, such as educational webinars for farmers, orders to prohibit co-mingling of poultry and expanding ac-

cess to farmer mental wellness programs.

Examples of eligible actions for support under this initiative include:

- Adding equipment designed to enhance on-farm biosecurity, such as the installation of a security gate for controlled entrance or purchase of security equipment and biosecurity signage.

- Adding cleaning and disinfecting equipment such as hot water pressure washers and constructing wash stations, anterooms and segregation walls; or

- Enhancing protocols or practices to mitigate interactions between wild and farmed birds.

Applicants can receive up to 70 per cent cost share for eligible expenses (retroactively to April 1, 2022), up to $100,000 per enhanced location, for up to $500,000 per business.

Eligible businesses can

apply for support through this initiative starting in January.

Since June 2018, both the federal and provincial governments have committed over $140 million in support to more than 6,500 projects through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

This funding has provided eligible Ontario farmers, processors, businesses and sector organizations with the ability to innovate and grow.

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 was joined by Baxter the amazing Golden Doodle and the Firefighting Ghostbusters during the 2021 Christmas parade in Manotick.

It is also used as a place of refuge for the children, if the need arises. In fact, three of the children attending HALMS had lived there for over a year.

“Night time at the dump is very dangerous,” Roy said. “It is a different world. The school is a safe haven for the students when they feel threatened or in danger.”

The school opened its doors in June, 2014, and welcomed 12 boys and girls, aged 13 to 16. For some, it was the first time they had attended school. For others, they had been away from school for over two years. The children had all been evaluated with most being graded with a kindergarten or grade one level.

The school provides children with an academic curriculum, a safe schooling environment, a healthy lifestyle that includes two meals per day, school supplies, a school uniform and shoes, transportation, cooking classes, arts and craft activities, and gardening and culinary classes for the mothers.

Roy said that even turning the life of one of these children around through education would make the entire effort worthwhile.

“There was no way we could make a school big enough for all the children,” Roy said. “We had to be realistic about how many children we could help.”

The school transitioned from teenagers to younger children.

“To be in the program, they had to be attending school,” Roy said. “It was difficult with teenagers. There are other things going on in their lives, and many of them are out there trying to provide for their families. The poverty they live in is something you can’t imagine until you see it. They are

scavengers – they have to do that to survive.”

The five women left the Philippines, and four of them moved on from the school. Roy, however, stayed involved in the school and took on a greater role.

“The kids are getting an education, and we are also working with the mothers,” she said. “We are teaching them about nutrition, and teaching them how to prepare food.”

Although Roy is the sole

remaining founder involved in the school on a day-today basis, she does rely on the help of people whom she says are extraordinary.

Full line of pressure treated spruce, #1 pine, plywood, insulation, caulking, and builders’ hardware supplies.

Children proudly hold up their certificates during their end-of-year ceremony at the HALMS school.

Lynn Roy, left, was part of the group that founded the HALMS school and took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony when the school opened in 2014. roy

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“Miriam del Rosario is the Mother Teresa of the Philippines,” she said. “She is incredible. Her husband, Jun, is a pastor who also plays a key role in the school.”

Roy said it was important that they hire a teacher who understands the children. Danielle del Rosa Abrasaldo, the daughter of Miriam and Jun, is a certified teacher and delivers the academic program. Her teacher’s assistant is Helen Martinez, who also lives at the dump.

“It was important for us to have local teachers who can relate to the teachers and their families,” she said. “We wanted the kids to feel comfortable. It was important that they learn in Tagolog, not in English.”

Food classes

While the Del Rosarios are working at the school in the Philippines, Roy is busy working on things here. She is able to gather sponsorships and supplies to send to the Philippines. She has also made connections to help feed the families of students.

“We have made a connection with the Ontario Christian Gleaners in Cambridge,” she said. “They have become a big partner and supplier for us.”

The company takes fresh vegetables that may have blemishes or imperfections.

“Even though the food is perfectly good, the blemishes on the food make them undesirable for grocery stores or restaurants,” Roy said. “The food is cleaned and then dehydrated and put in bags.”

The company will add ingredients like barley to the

bags. Roy secured a donation of dehydrated food in bags that will provide between five and ten thousand meals.

“Not only do we have help coming from them, but we are also teaching women about gardening,” she said. “It is very empowering for these women to be able to grow food and then create meals to feed their families.”

While Roy is undertaking this project, she continues to work at the Manotick LCBO. Every dollar she makes goes to the school.

“I guess I work for the school,” she says with a smile. “The school needs the financial help. A lot of people ask me about the school and how things are going when they see me. Some people in the community have taken an interest in the school.”

Roy is humble and almost

embarrassed when people praise her for the work she does for the school. She sees herself as someone who is just trying to make a difference and give some kids a chance in life they would never have. Others, from her friends to her co-workers and even people

who hear her story for the first time, see her as more than that. Words like ‘angel’ and ‘saint’ are tossed around.

“I won’t be able to do this forever,” she says. “Hopefully we can get everything in place so that the school will have enough support to keep go-

ing when the day comes that I can’t do this anymore.”

There are people around the world hoping that day does not come for a long, long time.

To donate to the HALMS school, visit https://www. halms.org/donations/donation-give-2-2/ .

Lynn Roy, left, gives every dollar she makes from her job at the Manotick LCBO to the HALMS school in the Philippines. Roy is the only one of the five original founders who remains actively involved in the operation of the school.

Traffic light and crosswalk a blatant waste of taxpayers’ money

The Editor,

Prior to completing his final term, former Council lor, Scott Moffatt finds that his operating budget still has some $200,000 in unused funds. Rather than letting these funds lapse, he decides the money could be used to install a new traffic light and crosswalk on Perth Street,

which is a major artery in and out of Richmond. This decision apparently gets ap proved by the City Staff, with a little or no formal assessment of either traffic patterns, pedestrian needs, or location. The new traf fic light and crosswalk has now been installed midway between the existing light at

Huntley Road and Gamble Drive, where it serves virtu ally no purpose for vehicle or pedestrian traffic and will likely never be used by either.

A much more obvious need was some form of traf fic control at the junction of Shea Rd. and Perth Streets, which is a major access point

Richmond Christmas Parade taking place Dec. 3 at Fairgrounds

For the third straight year, the Richmond Christ mas Parade will be a drivethru event, taking place at the Richmond Fairgrounds.

The parade pivoted to a drive-thru event in 2020 and has been very success ful over the past two years. ‘Floats’ are stationary along

the route, and families drive through and exchange waves with those set up. Last year, a steady stream of cars drove through the route for more than three hours in the warmth and comfort of their vehicles.

This year’s parade begins at 5 p.m. at the fairgrounds

with a plan to be finished by 9 p.m. There will be no handouts from the floats to the visitors in the vehicles. However, if you are looking for lights and music, this pa rade will not disappoint.

For more information on the parade, visit richmond village.ca.

to and from the shopping plaza, often with traffic line ups waiting to access and exit from both the plaza and the adjoining gas station.

It’s hard to understand how the City of Ottawa, could proceed to install a new traffic light and cross walk totally isolated from any junctions, (simply on

the former Councillor’s sayso) without any formal as sessment of traffic patterns, needs and location. Surely this is something the City of Ottawa is functionally and technically responsible for, across the whole breadth of the city, along with related analysis and understanding of both traffic and pedestrian

patterns.

As it is, the new traffic light and pedestrian cross ing will likely be virtually unused, a blatant waste of some $200,000 from pander ing to the request of a former City Councillor, who has no further interest whatsoever.

Bill Williams Richmond

Local children will have the opportunity to have Breakfast with Santa at the Man otick Legion Sat., Dec. 3.

The breakfast will take place from 8-10 a.m., and will be free with a donation.

Breakfast with Santa at the Manotick Legion Sat. Dec. 3 Shop Local - Shop Manotick

On the menu are some of Santa’s fa vourites, including pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, fruit salad and a drink.

To register, please call (613) 692-3243 or sign up at the Manotick Legion.

Eastern Ontario Mayors Support CA Concerns About Housing Bill 23

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority says more than 30 Eastern Ontario mayors have endorsed a letter to the province expressing concerns with provincial Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act.

The letter, written by 10 Eastern Ontario CAs, was sent to Premier Doug Ford and relevant cabinet ministers this month.

“We are overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for the support we have received from local municipalities,” said Sommer Casgrain-Robertson, General Manager of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. “It was disheartening that this bill only had a 30-day consultation period given the magnitude of the proposed changes and that this short consultation period fell during the turnover of municipal councils.”

In their letter, the Eastern Ontario CAs outline six key concerns with the bill and how the changes will negatively impact lo-

cal development review processes, download new responsibilities to municipalities, increase costs to taxpayers, increase the risk of flooding, erosion and slope failure and damage the local environment.

But the CAs also provide recommendations to the province of how to improve Bill 23 and call for meaningful consultation with CAs, municipalities, and the development and agricultural sectors to identify real solutions that will increase housing without having unintended and irreversible consequences.

“It is well understood that water flows across municipal boundaries –and so do the impacts of development. That’s why over the past 70 years, municipalities have formed 36 CAs across Ontario to assess and understand the cumulative impact of development within each watershed. At a time when climate change is causing more frequent and intense storm events, the role of

CAs has never been more critical,” said a press release issued by the RVCA.

In order to deal with the housing shortage and lack of vacancy in the province, the Ontario government introduced the More Homes Built Faster Act, which takes bold action to advance the province’s plan to address the housing crisis by building 1.5 million homes over the next 10 years. They say the proposals in the More Homes Built Faster Act would, if passed, ensure that cities, towns and rural communities grow with a mix of ownership and rental housing types that meet the needs of all Ontarians, from single family homes to townhomes and mid-rise apartments.

“For too many Ontar-

ians, including young people, newcomers, and seniors, finding the right home is still too challenging. This is not just a big-city crisis: the housing supply shortage affects all Ontarians, including rural, urban and suburban, north and south, young and old.” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Our Housing Supply Action Plan is creating a strong foundation on which 1.5 million homes can be built over the next 10 years. Our government is following through on our commitment to Ontarians by cutting delays and red tape to get more homes built faster.”

The plan puts in place actions to support the development of “gentle density” – housing like

triplexes or garden suites – that bridge the gap between single family homes and high-rise apartments. For example, it would remove exclusionary zoning, which allows for only one single detached home per lot. Instead, it would allow property owners to build three units without lengthy

approvals and development charges.

The plan, which contains around 50 actions, addresses the housing crisis by reducing government fees and fixing developmental approval delays that slow down housing construction and increase costs.

Sunday Worship at 10 am Office hours are: Mon, Wed-Fri admin@manotickunitedchurch.com www.manotickunited.com 613-692-4576

ST. JAMES’ ANGLICAN CHURCH

Sunday Worship 8:15 & 10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Protocols in place see website for details)

Live & Posted via YouTube

“A Christian community joyfully serving & growing in God’s love” (Elevator Access Provided)

Church Office 613-692-2082

The Reverend Kerri Brennan e-mail office@stjames-manotick.ca Web site: www.stjames-manotick.ca

ST. LEONARD ROMAN

CATHOLIC CHURCH

5332 Long Island Road, Manotick Pastor: Rev. GeRaRd Plant

Mass tiMes

Saturday 4:30p.m., Sunday 9a.m. 11a.m Weekdays Wed., Thu. 9a.m., Fri. 9:30a.m. Office: 692-4254 www.stleonardsparish.ca Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. EMAIL: office@stleonardsparish.ca

It will take a while for Lauren Pederson to catch up on her sleep and get back into a routine.

“I’m completely exhausted,” the Manotick-area native said of competing as Miss Ottawa in the Miss World Canada pageant. “It was a real eye opener. I had never been exposed to anything like this. It was difficult, but it was an incredible experience.”

Pederson had never been in a pageant and knew very little about them before entering the Miss World Ontario pageant earlier this year. She had done some modelling in the past, but had never even thought of entering a pageant. She was intrigued by the Miss

World “Beauty with a purpose” agenda, and the prize money that could become available for charity work or organizations.

“I am really not a pageant purpose, and at the Miss World Ontario pageant there were times when I didn’t fit in,” she said. “A photographer suggested I do this, and because I am raising money for a children’s mental health program at CHEO, it became an opportunity.”

Pederson is a child youth councillor, and helping kids with mental health issues at CHEO is a cause that is very close to her heart. She has been hosting trivia nights at the Mill Tavern in Manotick

to raise money for her program, which purchases supplies for CHEO’s patients struggling with mental health. Despite never having been in a pageant in her life, she placed fifth at the Miss World Ontario Pageant and earned a spot in the Miss World Canada Pageant, which took place in Toronto in November.

Competing against some of Canada’s top pageant veterans, Pederson placed in the top half of the event. She won the fitness category, and she was among the top three in all speaking challenges. She was also second in Miss Congeniality.

“I had a real shot,” she said, laughing. “We had a walk on the Friday evening and I messed up a few tow points. It knocked me down to 22nd. I think that’s where not being experienced in the pageant world really showed for me.”

To say the week was grueling is an understatement. Pederson said she averaged about three hours of sleep per night, and the days were long. There were, however, some positives came with the challenge of the long, hard days and nights.

“By trying to become the best versions of ourselves, we made some amazing bonds,” Pederson said. “Everyone was exhausted, and I think we all felt a little vulnerable because of it. But we all got to know each other for who we

are beyond the pageant. I was able to connect with so many people.”

While the Miss World Canada adventure is behind her, Pederson will still be active fulfilling her duties as Miss World Ottawa until April. There will be appearances at different events and she will continue to advocate for children’s mental health.

“I will continue to do what I am doing, and focus on getting my second degree,” Pederson said. “Being Miss World Ottawa will give me a platform to make a difference in the lives of some children who are struggling with mental health problems.”

As she represents Ottawa locally and provincially and crusades for the cause that is close to her heart, Pederson vows to put her best foot forward.

And you know her toes will be pointing the right way.

Lauren Pederson entered the Miss World Ontario and Miss World Canada pageants as a way to advocate for children’s mental health issues.

Lauren Pederson competed in the 2022 Miss World Canada pageant in Toronto in November.

The Advent Wreath teaches us about the meaning of Christmas

The Advent wreath probably originated during the Renaissance in the Middle European countries of Austria and Hungary. The making of the wreath was a family custom using evergreen boughs, grains, berries and fruit. Advent begins the fourth Sunday before Christmas; a purple candle is placed in the wreath and lighted signifying the “waiting period”. On the second Sunday another purple candle is placed on the wreath and both are lighted. On the third Sunday a rose candle signifying “joy” is placed in the wreath and the three candles are lighted. On the fourth Sunday another purple candle is added and all four are lighted. The period of spiritual preparation reaches a climax on Christmas morning when a white candle, signifying the Christ Child, is lighted and used to light the

THis week, THIS MONTH

by Larry Ellis

other four, then placed in the center of the wreath.

The use of the Advent wreath today teaches the true meaning of Christmas. When

the lighting of the candles on Christmas morning is complete people are prepared for the religious event – the birth of the Christ Child. In this way, Christmas means more than gifts, Santa and colored lights. These traditions are important but they should not obscure the significance of Christmas as represented in the Advent wreath.

Christmas Market at Watson’s Mill continues weekend of Dec. 3-4

By Krysia Kurylowicz

My friend Sandy Sharkey posted on her Facebook page that her famous Sable Island Wild Horse Calendars were available. I live nearby and thought I would save the official administrative staff (husband Rob and Big Dog Dude) the effort of dragging my copy to the post office. Sandy let me know she would be selling her stunning wild horse images and calendars at the Christmas Market at Watson’s Mill during the weekend. Not sure why this Christmas Shopping opportunity wasn’t on my radar, but I’m so glad I made the effort to check it out!

We all know that shopping to support local businesses is key to the success of our community. To my delight, the old Mill (always wonderful to visit from a find the ghost perspective) was jam packed with wonderful cre-

ations from local artisans and talented inventive people. We are so hung up on click and deliver “must have” items online that we neglect the appeal of hand made quality choices sure to please even the hardest to buy for person! When you purchase something from a Christmas Market Vendor, you are buying a piece of that person’s passion and effort. Much better that anything mass produced.

I toured around and spoke to everyone set up there. Here’s a little synopsis of what to expect:

Sandy Sharkey Photography—Sandy is passionate about the fate of wild horses all over the world and has spent countless patient hours waiting for just the right shot. She offers images of these stunning creatures that would make a beautiful addition to any wall. If you’re not in the market for this, she has many cards and smaller items for

you to purchase.

Christmas Wreaths by Sue Hiltz—These are truly gorgeous and very reasonably priced! Sue really has a great eye and the wreaths and swags are fresh to last for many weeks on your front door.

Elizabeth Radmore—Here is a lovely collection of painted whimsical rocks and other items perfect to adorn someone’s kitchen windowsill.

Salty Mermaid Soap House—No Christmas show can be without handmade soap. The perfect hostess gift or stocking stuffer.

Mel-Lo Designs—Lorraine and Melissa have a lovely collection of jewellery and decorator items made from earth stones. Beauty and healing in one!

Blainecrafted Household Items and Décor—Here you’ll find beautiful handmade, customized and unique items from new and re-

claimed wood. Lovely wooden Christmas decorations.

Lift Flavours Inc.—Try Leigh Stevenson’s assortment of spices and mixes sure to please every palate!

Patti’s Pantry—Fresh baked goods made with a little taste of Heaven. Yummy!

Heavenly Honey—Purveyors of fine gourmet Canadian beehive products. Who doesn’t want to support bees? 100% pure and unpasteurized.

AB Woodworking—John produces stunning and unique wooden boards that involve an intricate process of combining naturally beautiful wood to make serving boards for those with decerning taste.

Julie Taylor—Santa figures with handcrafted faces made from reused items. Truly unique!

A la c’ART by Chrysula— Colourful little paintings and Christmas decorations sure to bring a smile!

Insomnia is defined as difficulty sleeping, and is one of the most common sleep disorders. Insomnia can include difficulty staying asleep, going to sleep, or going back to sleep after being awaken too early. Insomnia can be caused by drugs such as nicotine, caffeine, and amphetamines. Insomnia can also be caused by medical conditions. Therapy for insomnia includes both non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods. Strategies that don’t involve medication include avoiding large meals or exercise prior to bedtime, avoiding caffeine or nicotine near bedtime, and avoiding daytime napping. Medications for insomnia include over the counter (e.g., melatonin) and prescription medication..

Pharmacist

990 River Road, Manotick, ON 613-692-0015

Community spirit makes Rideau-Jock Ward 21 a special place to live

It has been a whirlwind two weeks for my team and I, as we settle into our new roles.

I am pleased to say that I have met with seven local community associations, have attended a few bake sales and Christmas markets and have been meeting daily with residents who are looking for support on a variety of city issues. A great start to what I hope will be a successful four years.

Many local volunteers, service clubs and not-forprofit groups have been quick to reach out to highlight the

Rideau-Jock Report

By Councillor David Brown

good that they are doing in their respective communities. As we head into the holiday season, I thought I would take this opportunity to highlight the tremendous work that is done and which often goes unacknowledged.

If you are reading this article, you are likely interested in the comings and goings within our community.

From family movie nights, church dinners, bingo and euchre tournaments, farmer’s markets, Christmas bazaars, concerts in the park, lighting of community parks, fairs and festivals, local dances, parades, Remembrance Day ceremonies and coming up shortly, breakfasts with Santa!

All of these are organized by volunteers in our community. Every one of them is our neighbour who cares about the community, who wants to make it the best place in Ottawa to live. With so much going on, we sometimes forget how lucky we are to live

in such a busy and vibrant community. Throughout the year, there is scarcely a weekend or weekday evening in one of the towns, villages or hamlets across rural Ottawa that doesn’t have some activity on the go, all being put on by local volunteers looking to make a small difference in their own way.

This has been highlighted for me over these past two weeks as each of these organizations has reached out to me, looking for support, requesting I attend one of their meetings or simply to invite me to come and enjoy

myself. It’s no exaggeration to say that thousands of collective hours every year are spent organizing these community building activities for us to enjoy.

Many of these events happen without support for any level of government, a testament to the determination of these community volunteers and a reminder that our sense of community comes from within.

I hope to do everything I can over these next four years to support, promote, attend and enjoy as many of these wonderful community-led ac-

tivities as I can, and hope you will too!

Within the next week, I hope to have my website up and running where you will be able to find a calendar of events showcasing these activities and other information that will keep you informed. If you would like something included on the website, in my weekly newsletter or if there is something I can do to help, you can connect with me through email at ward21@ottawa.ca or call 613-580-2491.

David Brown Councillor Ward 21

The origins of ChrisTmas Caroling

The festive nature of the holiday season makes it an ideal time to sing, especial ly in groups. Perhaps it’s no surprise then that caroling, a tradition that dates back many centuries, ultimately collided with Christmas.

Caroling and Christmas caroling are two different things. According to His tory.org, the origins of mod ern Christmas caroling can be traced to wassailing, a term that has evolved for

more than a millenium. What started as a simple greeting gradually became part of a toast made dur ing ritualized drinking.

Time magazine notes that the word “wassail,” which appeared in English litera ture as early as the eighth century, eventually came to mean the wishing of good fortune on one’s neighbors, though no one can say for certain when this particular development occurred.

During medieval times, farmers in certain parts of Britain would drink a bev erage to toast the health of their crops and encourage the fertility of their animals. By 1600, farmers in some parts of Britain were still engaging in this ritual, and some were by now taking a wassail bowl filled with a toasting beverage around the streets. These wassail ers would stop by neighbor ing homes and offer a warm

drink, all the while wishing good fortune on their neigh bors.

During this period, was sailing had nothing to do with Christmas, but that began to change in Victor ian England, when Christ mas became more com mercialized and popular. It was during this time when publishers began circulat ing carols, forever linking the tradition of wassailing with Christmas.

Christmas caroling as Victorian Englanders knew it might have fallen by the wayside. But while carol ers may no longer go doorto-door singing Christmas songs and wishing their neighbors good fortune, those intent on seeing the modern manifestation of this tradition that dates back more than a millenium may be able to find some carol ers at their local mall or church.

The holiday season is a great time to make any home a bit more merry and bright. Most individuals let their personalities show through their home decor, and holiday decorating is just as personal as decorating throughout the rest of the year.

The main living areas of a home get the most decorating attention, with a Christmas tree or menorah taking a prominent position in the front window. Garlands, candles and other accoutrements also may dress up spaces. However, when it comes to holiday hosting, attention also should

8 easy holiday centerpiece ideas

be given to the dining table - which can benefit from a festive centerpiece.

Premade centerpieces are undeniably attractive, but adding a homespun touch can be a fun creative pursuit and become a family tradition. Explore these eight simple ideas to dress up your holiday table.

1. Frosted pine cones: Take advantage of a crisp winter’s day to venture into a forest or park that is rich with evergreen trees. Gather pine cones from the forest floor and, if possible, a few evergreen boughs. Give the pine cones a touch of winter whimsy with a

little faux snow in a can or even white paint. Nestle the boughs and pine cones into a wide-mouthed vase or bowl in the center of the table. Individual pine cones can later be turned into place cards for seating guests.

2. Holiday thanks: Cut many strips of paper roughly 6 inches in length from various colored pieces of paper to match the holiday theme. When guests arrive, ask them to write a favorite holiday memory or two, or what they’re thankful for. Twirl the paper strips around a pencil to curl them, and then place the

curlicues into a decorative bowl in the center of the table. Later in the evening, the host or hostess can read some of the sentiments.

3. Magical forest: Use green and silver conical party hats to turn a table or sideboard into a veritable evergreen forest. Arrange them on a blanket of faux snow or white confetti.

4. Freshly cut: Select attractive flowers in vibrant holiday hues from a florist or even the supermarket floral section. Cut the stems and place them into an unusual display container, such as holiday themed mugs or a punch bowl.

5. Glass baubles: Who says ornaments should be exclusive to the tree? A crystal or glass cake stand can be transformed into an icy delight when topped with silver and clear glass ornaments.

6. Birch wood: The crisp white coloring of birch bark is right at home with holiday decor. Go stark with pieces of the cut wood in varying heights intermingled with white candles that mimic the shapes and scale of the wood.

7. Fruit and vegetables: If guests are coming over and the race is on for a fast centerpiece, look no further

than the kitchen. Lemons, artichokes, pears, or pomegranates look festive in a bowl interspersed with some greenery and baby’s breath.

8. Cornucopia: The horn of plenty can be customized to any holiday. Purchase a horn in wicker or woven grapevine and fill with flowers, fruit and greenery, or even painted gourds or miniature pumpkins.

Holiday hosts and hostesses should not neglect the dining table when they decorate. Festive centerpieces can be handmade without much effort on the part of hosts.

Manotick Culture, Parks & Recreation Association looking for volunteers

By Anne RoBinosn MCPRA

Manotick Culture, Parks and Recreation Association (MCPRA, or “Manotick Parks and Rec”) is a group of volunteers working on local parks and recreation projects and programs. Past capital projects include the expansion of the Manotick Community Centre/Arena, the Mahogany dock/landing, and the new outdoor rink and basketball courts at Centennial Park.

MCPRA also installed the interpretive panels in the park across from St. Leonard’s School and the water access signs at public rightof-ways to the Rideau River.

Manotick Parks & Rec

also operates on-going recreation programs including the Walking Group at the Manotick Community Centre and Chic Time in the ‘Tick which will hopefully make a post-COVID return in 2023. A Friday Family Skate Night was introduced in 2021 at the Centennial outdoor rink and will continue, weather permitting, in 2022-23. We also help maintain West River Park and the Centennial Park Gateway Garden, and operate Manotick’s two outdoor rinks at McLean Park and Centennial Park.

Manotick Parks & Rec is also currently working on a couple of significant community projects: Centennial Park Enhancement Project Phase 2 (the up-

grade to the northeast corner including a new skate park and a new pump track which is targeting completion in late 2023) and new and improved pathways for Centennial Park.

This work and these initiatives take time, effort, collaboration, and fun! Manotick Parks & Rec often works in partnership with other groups – the Kiwanis, Manotick Village and Community Association, Manotick BIA and others, and, as the saying goes, many hands make light work.

The community is so much richer when you dig in and lend a helping hand. If you are interested in joining the Manotick Parks & Rec team, in any capacity,

contact any of the following:

Outdoor Rink – Tom Hollinger, Jason Purcell, manotick.ODR@gmail. com

Family Skate Night –Chris Veh, cvehconstruction@gmail.com

Chic Time in the ‘Tick – Darlene Donnelly, dardon956@gmail.com

The Walking Group –Darlene Donnelly

Centennial Park Pathways – Alexa Ives, lex. ives@rogers.com

Park/ Garden Maintenance – Tom Plant, tomplant54@gmail.com

MCPRA Board of Directors – Anne Robinson, anne@annerobinson.ca Make Manotick the village you want it to be.

Manotick’s outdoor rinks are a highlight of living in the village during the winter for local children.

Strategies to identify what your customers want

Defining what customers want is something all successful businesses must do. No two customers are the same, so determining their needs and wants requires flexibility and a fluid approach that leaves room for business owners to adapt as their customers’ needs change.

Adapting to changing customer demands was perhaps never more important than during the COVID-19 pandemic. The outbreak of the deadly coronavirus in late 2019 forced both consumers and business owners to change how they shop and sell products, respectively. Those changes were made seemingly overnight, as governments across the globe placed restrictions on businesses and individuals in an effort to curb the spread of the virus.

As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, business owners must once again determine what their

customers want. That’s as significant a challenge as ever, as how consumers find the products they need has changed considerably since the onset of the pandemic. The financial experts at JP Morgan note that the pandemic drove more shoppers online. By the end of 2020, e-commerce accounted for 16 percent of all sales in the United States. That marked a nearly 5 percent increase since the first quarter of 2020.

Business owners may face a challenge in determining what customers want after the pandemic, but they can utilize various strategies to help that process go smoothly.

· Solicit customer input. Though vaccination rollouts have gone smoothly so far, many consumers are taking a cautious approach to getting back to normal. Soliciting customer input can be a great way to gauge their comfort levels as well as what they’re

looking for in a post-pandemic climate. Customer surveys can shed light on the psyche of your consumers and what they’re looking for from the businesses they trust. Once customer feedback has been analyzed, business owners can then tailor their offerings to meet the shifting nature of consumer demands, making every effort to appeal to as many customers as possible.

· Lean on sales teams. Sales teams interact directly with the customers, be it in person, via Zoom calls, emails, or other channels. Business owners can lean on their sales teams for input regarding how customers are feeling and what their goals for the future are. Instruct sales teams to speak directly with customers about their short- and long-term goals, and then utilize their feedback to inform decisions going forward.

Identifying what customers want may require some creativity and flexibility as

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

the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Royals fighting for first in Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League

The Richmond Royals continue to battle for first place in the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Martin Division.

Heading into the weekend, the Royals were 11-5-1 for 23 points, just one point behind first place Embrun with a game in hand.

On Sun., Nov. 13, the Royals won what could easily be called a statement game, as they edged the Casselman Vikings 8-6 in front of a boisterous Richmond crowd.

While 46 minutes in penalties is not too far above the league average, consider that 36 of those minutes came on 18 minor penalties, mostly for roughing, in the second period.

The Vikings jumped on the Royals for four first period goals, but the Royals chipped away at the lead. Cameron Donaldson had an unassisted

goal for the Royals, and then Dylan Rorwick, the game’s first star, scored an unassisted shorthanded goal. Tyler Hames got a goal from Rorwick and Tyler Cutts with less than a minute to play in the period to make the score 4-3.

In the second period, it was the Royals’ turn to score four as they took a 7-4 lead. Cutts scored a pair, Hames netted his second of the game, and Declan McCarthy added one with four seconds left in the period.

In the third, the Vikings took over and peppered Royals goalie Gabe Arrigo with shots. Nico Pozzebon scored his second and third goals of the game to make the score 7-6, but Rorwick iced the Royals win with an empty net goal in the final minute.

The following Friday night, the Royals headed to CharLan. Richmond led 4-2 in the

third period, but the Rebels scored three unanswered goals to take a 5-4 win.

Giulio Carulli, Drew Russett and Tyler Hames scored in the first period for the Royals, with Sheldon Lyons added one in the third. Russett, Jackson Miller and Simon Yang had Richmond assists.

Tyler Branchaud scored twice for the Rebels with Jeremy Chenier, Nolan MacMillan and Devon St-Jean scoring third period goals to cap the comeback.

Mavric Welk took the loss between the pipes for Richmond.

On Sun., Nov. 20, the Royals took on the first place Embrun Panthers in Richmond and earned a 2-1 overtime win.

Gabe Arrigo stopped 35 of 36 shots, and Tyler Cutts bounced back with a big game. Cutts wet up Jaidon Genereux’s

Richmond Royals forwards Tyler Cutts and Declan McCarthy scramble for a loose puck in front of Cassleman Vikings

power play goal in the second period, and then notched the unassisted winner in overtime.

Sheldon Lyons also had an as-

Racine during their Junior B tilt Sun., Nov. 13.

sist on the Genereux goal.

On Tuesday at the Earl Armstrong Arena, the Royals left a point on the table as they

lost a 3-2 battle with the Ottawa Junior Canadians in overtime.

royals continues on page 23

goalie Zachari

royals continues from page 22

Richmond took a 1-0 lead as Dylan Rorwick scored from Shane Sullivan and Drew Russett with 13 seconds left in the period.

In the second period, Cutts got his 13th of the year, scoring on the power play from Simon Yang, but the

Canadians pulled even on goals by Max Lacrois and Tyler Vezina.

After a scoreless third period, Vezina netted the overtime winner from Patrick Larkin.

The Royals visit Char-Lan Sat. Dec. 10 at 8 p.m. before

returning home for a Sunday afternoon game against the Winchester Hawks. The following Sunday, they entertain the Casselman Vikings. Both games have a 1:20 p.m. puck drop at the Richmond Memorial Community Centre.

a 1-0

G A ry Cou Lo M BE phoTo

Area bars and restaurants were busy last Wednesday afternoon as Canada played its first World Cup game in 36 years. The Mill Tavern drew a large crowd of cheering fans to watch the game against Belgium. Although Canada dominated play against the number-two ranked team in the world, a missed penalty by Alphonso Davies and an inopportune break for the Belgique led to

Canada defeat. Above, servers Dorene Moody and Madison Dandenault, and Mill Tavern GM LeeAnne Elliott made sure that no soccer fans went thirsty throughout the exciting match.