Manotick Messenger March 8, 2024

Annual Carleton Women’s Day Breakfast to take place March 8

“The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

- Gloria Steinham

Once again this year, I will be hosting a breakfast at Danby’s Restaurant in Richmond for International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Each year, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made toward gender equality. It also serves to remind us of the work that still needs to be done.

More than a year before the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas, I was

speaking out against the need for women’s rights in Iran, which is controlled by the terrorist Iranian Revolitionary Guard Corps. Their track record has taken women’s rights back not just generations, but centuries.

When 21-year-old Iranian Mahsa Amini was captured and then killed for improperly wearing her hijab in public, it was the straw that broke the social and political camel’s back. It triggered worldwide demonstrations about the rights of women in Iran, and around the world. It exposed the IRGC on exactly what they were, and where women stand under their

regime.

As the first IranianCanadian woman elected to Queen’s Park, I had a responsibility. I had the gift of a platform. I had to balance my responsibilities to the people of Carleton with providing a global voice to the rights of women in Iran and other oppressed countries. I did this in my spare time to ensure that it did not conflict with my work locally.

I was asked many times in the months after Mahsa Amini’s death why I was taking this on as it had nothing to do with Carleton. I did it because it had to do with being human. I did it because I knew that this was only the beginning.

The first pro-Palestinian march that took place in Ottawa took place in the Carleton riding. The Palestinian Youth Movement

organized a protest that closed down Limebank Road in Riverside South for a morning as students from St. Francis Xavier High School less than four months before the killing of Mahsa Amini.

So, even then, this was indeed already a local issue to Carleton.

It was the IRGC, the group I had been speaking out against, who trained and funded Hamas, and helped them plan the October 7 attack on Israel that saw innocent women being raped, murdered and mutilated in what looked like some sort of sick form of sport for Hamas terrorists.

Standing up for women’s rights around the world has never been as important as it is today. That’s why events on International Women’s Day are so important.

The International

Women’s Day Breakfast I am hosting March 8 will have nothing to do with politics, and there will be no heavy themes. It’s just a day to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of women locally, and to thank them and recognize them for everything they do.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is Inspire Inclusion. The campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. It calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected. Inspire Inclusion encourages everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 and reflect on the theme of Inspire Inclusion, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where all women are empowered, valued, and included. By working together to break down barriers and foster diversity, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society for generations to come.

International Women’s Day facts

• In the United States, the first National Women’s Day was observed on Sun., Feb. 28, 1909. There had been great unrest leading up to this day. The year before, 15,000 women marched through New York demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights.

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• Following the decision agreed at Copenhagen in Denmark, International Women’s Day was honored the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on March 19, 1911.

• More than one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination.

• On the eve of World War I campaigning for peace, Russian women observed their first International Women’s Day on February 23, 1913.

• On the last Sunday of February, Russian women began a strike for “Bread and Peace” in response to the death of over 2 million Russian soldiers in World War 1. Opposed by political leaders, the women continued to strike until four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the

right to vote.

• In 1916, women in Manitoba became the first women in Canada to win the right to vote.

• Canadian women Louis McKinney and Roberta MacAdams Price became the first women elected to a legislature in the British Empire in 1917 as they earned seats in Albert’s legislature.

• Some Canadian women were granted the right to vote in the 1918 Canadian federal election.

• In 1921, Agnes Macphail became the first woman elected to the House of Commons.

• In 1929, women were declared to be “persons” and could therefore be appointed to the Canadian Senate.

• In 1941, the Canadian Women’s Army Corps and the Royal Canadian Navy Women’s Division were established with more than 45,000 women volunteers re-

cruited for full-time military service.

• In 1960, all Canadian women were given the right to vote.

• In 1975, International Women’s Day was marked for a first time by the United Nations.

• In 1981, women’s rights in Canada were enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

• In 1983, Jeanne Sauve became the first Governor General of Canada.

• In 1992, Dr. Roberta Bondar became the first Canadian woman sent into space.

• Kim Campbell became Canada’s first female Prime Minister in 1993.

• In 1996, the UN announced their first annual theme “Celebrating the past, Planning for the Future” which was followed in 1997 with “Women at the Peace table”, in 1998 with “Women and Human Rights”, in 1999

with “World Free of Violence Against Women”.

• In 2001, following a year of planning and collaborative conversations, the internationalwomensday. com platform was launched with the specific purpose of re-energizing the day and inviting mass participation - a focus which continues to this day - by celebrating and making visible the achievements of women, while continuing the call for accelerating gender parity.

• 2011 saw the 100 year centenary of International Women’s Day - with the first IWD event held exactly 100 years ago in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. In the United States, President Barack Obama proclaimed March 2011 to be “Women’s History Month”, calling Americans to mark IWD by reflecting on “the extraordinary accomplishments of women” in

shaping the country’s history.

• Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, launched the “100 Women Initiative: Empowering Women and Girls through International Exchanges”. In the United Kingdom, celebrity activist Annie Lennox lead a march across one of London’s iconic bridges raising awareness in support for global charity Women for Women International.

• The world has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women’s and society’s thoughts about women’s equality and emancipation. Many from a younger generation may feel that ‘all the battles have been won for women’ while many feminists from the 1970’s know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy. With more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass

of women’s visibility as impressive role models in every aspect of life, one could think that women have gained true equality. The unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women’s education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men. However, great improvements have been made.

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

Singer-songwriter James Leclaire gets everyone singing along with ‘Are You Ready?’

Manotick -based folk artist James Leclaire released his sixth single “Are You Ready?” from his ambitious and unique project where he is releasing a new song each month for the next three years.

After the shocking end to his 23-year marriage in 2020, Leclaire recorded an astounding 37 songs that encapsulate his heartbreak and journey as he navigated through many new life experiences.

“My sorrowful songs were always written from a fictional place or as a witness to others pain. Now it was my sorrow, my pain, my wound, and it caused my pen to bleed ink and my guitar to cry chords,” says Leclaire.

To assist on the project, the Manotick folk singer-songwriter amassed an all-star team of seasoned musicians that have worked with artists such as Norah Jones, the Doobie Brothers, and Neil Young. The contributors include guitarist Kevin Breit, drummer Ed Toth, guitarist and pianist John Fraser Findlay, harmonicist Mickey Raphael, and many other local musicians.

“Are You Ready? describes all the ups and downs that one will face while chasing the thing that they love. It enforces the idea that good things are always worth fighting for. Am I ready? I sure am.” says Leclaire.

With a chorus highlighted by backing vocals inspired by 80s metal, combined with the grounded folk and alt-country sensibilities of the musicianship and Leclaire’s life experiences, “Are You Ready?” creates an acoustic driven track with melodies that make it impossible to ignore. Leclaire’s gruff vocals add a sense of urgency and emotion that expels his emotional lyrics like a memorable punk sing-along.

Leclaire’s newest work comes after a hiatus that saw him not perform or

record new music for over five years. After his life was turned upside down and finding new life experiences and a new relationship, Leclaire had an overflow of inspiration which resulted in kickstarting his return to music.

The first monthly single, “Things That I Said”, was released in August 2023. Each new monthly song has a different surprise and “Are You Ready?” is one that will get audiences singing and moving.

With Change Comes Challenges

Like everyone, James has had his share of challenges. He was an energetic and creative child who was always daydreaming and displaying his imagination through acting and drawing. That of course was challenging for James’ academics. He struggled in school, expect in art class, in which he excelled. His imagination really sparked when, at 16 years old, a friend put a guitar in James’ hands.

Right from the start, James didn’t take lessons and didn’t want to learn other people’s songs. He wanted to write his own songs, create his own characters and tell his own stories.

Although a happy individual, he enjoyed writing about life’s struggles. James would pull from experiences that he saw happen to people around him. Stories of love, determination, cheating, abuse, and heartache.

“Creating a song from nothing, then performing it with the same passion as the characters you wrote about, and then seeing how those songs touch others, is unbelievably rewarding.”

After barely graduating high school, James’ drawings got him accepted into an Animation program. This was another huge challenge for James; he was one of the weakest.

After a laborious two years he completed the course

but due to his skill level he was unhireable on a professional level. Another challenge to face, which he did. After working his day job, James worked on his portfolio at night for a year and a half and eventually squeaked into a position at an animation studio, where again he was the weakest. Challenge accepted. James focused and his skills sharpened.

While still passionately writing, recording, and performing his own music, James’ storytelling skills, along with his evolving drawing abilities, lead him to a successful career as a Storyboard Artist. His hard work paid off. From there, in 2007 he ended up cofounding Jam Filled Entertainment, an animation studio that now has 700 employees with offices in Ottawa, Toronto and Halifax.

“Storyboarding has so many similarities to songwriting. The writing, the acting, the timing; all of which kept sharpening my songwriting skills.”

Shortly after the release of his third solo album in 2015, These Weights, James took a long hiatus from recording and performing music for personal

reasons…Reasons he now regrets. But in January 2020, James was slammed with the biggest challenge he had ever faced; his 23 year marriage came to a shocking and devastating end. How did James make it through? James dug deep and wrote songs that were from a place he had never been before. He wrote with new eyes, new ears, and new emotions. His songs now became personal as opposed to observational.

“My sorrowful songs were always written from a fictional place or as a witness to others pain. Now it was my sorrow, my pain, my wound, and it caused my pen to bleed ink and my guitar to cry chords.”

That healing process, along with new experiences and eventually a new relationship, caused James’ song writing well to overflow with material that has amounted to a staggering 68 songs.

James headed into the recording studio with and recorded with producer, Phillip Victor Bova. The new recordings boast the talents of guitarist Kevin Breit (Norah Jones), drummer Ed Toth (Doobie Bros), guitarist/pianist John Fraser Findlay (Juno

nominee), harmonicist Mickey Raphael (Nelson/ Dylan/Young/Stapleton, etc) and other talented local musicians.

The first single, Things That I Said, was released Aug 4th, 2023 followed by a song a month until the well goes dry. But with the down pouring of inspiration he has felt since the

2015 damming, the flood of new material will not reside for a long time.

The next challenge is to have these songs heard.

“Things That I Said is not only my first new single in eight years but it’s also a rebirth and return to doing what I love, the challenge of telling a good story.”

Things That I Said is James Leclaire’s first new single in eight years.

Manotick singer-songwriter James Leclaire plans to release 36 songs in 36 months.

Rural firefighters’ change in status will entitle them to benefits, pension

When the bell tower at St. Philip Catholic Church in Richmond was on fire, the volunteer firefighters at the Richmond Fire Station were on the scene just three minutes after the 9-1-1 call was placed.

They did an outstanding job in containing the fire, preventing it from spreading to the rest of the church and minimizing damage.

The timing of the Richmond church fire was coincidental to the discussions going on at City Council. Rural firefighters were at the forefront as City Council voted to change their employee status from volunteer to casual part time.

The move was first discussed at the Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee. After passing there, the motion to change the status of rural firefighters was passed.

Although they were considered volunteers, firefighters at rural village fire stations such as Manotick, Richmond and Osgoode went through the same training and testing, and wear the same uniforms, as their suburban and urban counterparts, who are considered full-time employees.

The change in status, which will cost the city close to a half million dollars, will make the volunteer firefighters eligible for the pension plan and will also entitle them to vacation time and benefits.

Ottawa Fire Services’ rural firefighters are responsible for fire suppression, fire rescue, tiered medical response, water and ice rescue, auto ex-

trication, wildland fires and incident management services. Emergency situations, such as floods, severe wind, extreme heat and cold events, and wildfires responses require skilled firefighter personnel. Ottawa’s rural firefighters are well trained and have the most current equipment and apparatus at their disposal to ensure the best chance of a positive outcome during any situation.

Rural operations firefighters represent 40 per cent of OFS resources and provide service to 80 per cent of Ottawa landmass in partnership with urban operations. The rural division is comprised of almost 500 rural firefighters and includes 16 rural and four composite fire stations. Rural firefighters include officers, lieutenants, captains, auxiliary personnel, and firefighters.

Rural firefighters are comparable to City of Ottawa employees in many aspects. They are paid hourly rates and receive economic increases. They wear an Ottawa Fire Services uniform that is indistinguishable from career firefighters. Both rural and urban firefighter recruits must pass the same physical testing as part of the qualifications. The City of Ottawa maintains ground insurance coverage for accident and sickness. This will not change as a result of the recommendations. There are annual performance reviews and in cases of promotions, they are assessed on the basis or attendance standards. They are subject to all City of Ottawa policies including

discipline in accordance with the City’s disciplinary policy. The policies and procedures of OttawaFire Services also incorporate references to resigning, retiring, or termination.

Currently rural firefighters are not designated as employees. The City of Ottawa classifies rural firefighters as volunteers. The City has other volunteer positions which are unpaid and do not require an equivalent level of qualification as compared to rural firefighters. Rural firefighters in Ottawa Fire Services are National Fire Protection Association trained and certified to the same standard as urban firefighters. Relevant legislation defining volunteer firefighters include the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, the Ontario Labour Relations Act, 1995, and the Employment Standards Act.

Rural firefighters deliver city-wide fire education and prevention programs like the Wake up! Get a Working Smoke Alarm program door to door, the Fire Smart program, and the After the

Richmond firefighters battled a blaze at

St.

Philip Catholic Church in Richmond on Valen-

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MESSENGER EditoRial Farmers have reached a breaking point with city slicker ‘values’

We have reached a breaking point.

Essentially, as incomes stagnate in many sectors, costs related to water usage are on the rise, taxes on diesel and other fuels are accumulating, and the use of pesticides and herbicides is becoming more restricted.

The list of challenges farmers face is extensive. Over the years, elected officials who have chosen to prioritize the concerns of city dwellers, often disconnected from the realities of farmers, are pushing for changes that erode farmers’ control over their farms.

I remember where I was when man walked on the moon.

I remember where I was when Paul Henderson scored.

Why did they take so long? from the other side

I remember where I was when I heard that Elvis died, and when John Lennon was shot and killed.

I remember where I was when I heard the McRib was coming back.

scientist Roger Mandigo, who had been funded by the National Pork Producers Council. Using Mandigo’s techniques, McDonald’s developed the McRib patty using small flakes of pork shoulder meat.

Are you more Canadian than a fifth grader?

As farmers’ frustration becomes increasingly evident, society remains deeply divided.

Urban discontent is not primarily directed at farmers themselves. After all, farmers often rank high in terms of public trust, alongside firefighters, teachers, and healthcare professionals. Instead, it’s farming practices that are under scrutiny.

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?

I was watching TV and I saw the commercial. As soon as the narrator said “the four greatest words in the English language”, I knew what he was talking abut.

The. McRib. Is. Back.

The McRib has come and gone, and come and gone again. Rarely does it appear in Canada. We waited for a decade. When it goes away, I don’t think I can wait another decade. They make Shamrock Shakes an annual thing. Why can’t they make the McRib an annual thing?

Those cruel McBastards.

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.

The urban-rural divide is widening because governments are imposing urban-centric values without considering the realities of agriculture. The fervent opposition to glyphosate, despite clear scientific evidence, and the introduction of additional environmental taxes without viable ecological and economic alternatives for farmers are just a few examples.

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 a long time, it has been evident that urban residents are not particularly concerned about farmers and are inclined to listen to certain alarmist interest groups, some of which are state-funded. It’s quite perplexing.

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.

While supply management exists in Canada, the farmers involved are often vocal but are not the ones in most need of assistance. They are simply better organized. Supply management works for dairy, eggs, and poultry, but the situation is more complex for other agricultural sectors, such as pork, beef, crops, grains, and horticultural production. These sectors struggle to make their voices heard and, more importantly, to be understood by city dwellers.

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.

“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.”

Yes, the McRib is back for a limited time. I stopped what I was doing, staring at the huge McRib on my giant screen in some sort of Pavlov’s Dog-like trans. I salivated. On cue, my stomach growled.

‘I have to get one,’ I thought. ‘I’ve got to drive to McDonald’s. It’s 12 minutes away, and it’s in Walmart. That’s not far. It might be my last one ever. What am I thinking? I’m hungry. I’m getting two.’

After my McRib sandwiches, I went back home. When I got in the car, I adjusted the mirror. I noticed I had McRib sauce smeared all over my face. I looked at my hands. They were covered in McRib sauce. It was under my finger nails. It was on my wrists. It was everywhere.

“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.

Sometimes it’s best just to say nil

Governments, whose representatives primarily hail from urban areas, rely on voters who believe, for the most part, that food magically appears on grocery store shelves. Since 2015, this has become a reality in Ottawa. The lack of understanding about the hard work behind the safe and abundant food we are privileged to purchase every day affects public perceptions. We want to buy locally, free of hormones, additives, and other concerns, but these demands often come at a high cost, a fact well-known to farmers.

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.

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.

This ignorance has led us to this point and has, over time, provided us with short-sighted policies.

Granting our farmers the benefit of the doubt is crucial for developing more effective food policies. Unlike our grocery stores, which should be more attentive to our needs, farmers bear the brunt of fluctuating prices and have no control over the market.

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.

FROM THE OTHER SIDE

We have lost sight of that reality in our pursuit of often excessive demands while preaching virtue.

Before the situation escalates further, let’s not forget that farmers are the foundation of our food systems.

© Troy Media

News

Publisher: Jeffrey Morris Managing Editor: Jeffrey Morris Reporters: Bev McRae Jeff Esau Marketing Mgr: Gord Logan Office: Angie Dinardo Photographer: Mike Carroccetto

Editorial: manotickmessenger@gmail.com

Website: www.manotickmessenger.ca

Publisher: Jeffrey Morris Managing Editor: Jeffrey Morris Reporters: Bev McRae Jeff Esau Marketing Mgr: Gord Logan Office: Angie Dinardo Photographer: Mike Carroccetto We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

1165 Beaverwood Rd., P.O. Box 567, Manotick, Ontario K4M 1A5 www.manotickmessenger.on.ca The Manotick Messenger is published every Wednesday in Manotick, Ontario. The Manotick Messenger is mailed to bona fide subscribers in Rideau and Osgoode Townships for $36. The publication is available by carrier for $36 or at newsstands for $1.00 per copy. Letters will be edited for length, clarity and libellous statements. Display, National and Classified rates are available on request. The Manotick Messenger is not responsible for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photos or other material used for publication purposes. Advertising deadlines: DISPLAY, Monday 3 p.m.; CLASSIFIED; Monday 4 p.m. All layouts and composition of advertisements produced by employees of Manotick Messenger Inc. are protected by copyright invested in the publishers of the Manotick Messenger.

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.

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

Staff/Contributors: Kelly Belair, David Brown, Gary Coulombe, Larry Ellis, Skyler Fraser, Goldie Ghamari, Melissa MacIsaac, Jeffrey Morris, Greg Newton, Irene Staron, Ralph Tweedie.

Bev Member, Ontario Community Newspaper Association Canadian Community Newspaper Association

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.

I got to McDonald’s, ordered on the big giant employee-replacing tablet, and waited anxiously like a kid at the front of the line at the mall when Santa decides to take a pee break just before it’s his turn.

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.”

That caught my attention.

Arr-hayne-TEE-na?

Are you kidding me?

But a McRib. This was better than Christmas. This is the sandwich that I grew to love through my teenage years and beyond. It was perfect. As I would say when I was at Carleton, it was sandwich adroitness bordering on superfluity. I spent a lot of money to go to school there just to learn words like that. If only I knew then that I would only use expensive words when the McRib was back.

“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.

“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.

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.

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.

The McRib was developed by McDonald’s executive chef Rene Arend in 1981. He is from Luxembourg. Arend also invented the Chicken McNugget. He may be the most influencial creator in quick service restaurant history.

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.”

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

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

I was at Walmart. Why didn’t I get a shower curtain and rubber boots to wear while I was eating?

I took a deep breath through my nose. I may have had McRib sauce up my nose too.

‘I’m basically wearing McRib cologne,’ I thought to myself. ‘Why don’t they have that? What if Old Spice made McRib Body Wash?

That one was absolutely not a stupid question.

When I got home, I knew what I was in for.

“Look at yourself!” the Diva said, in disbelief yet not in disbelief. “Of course you would come home covered with McRib sauce. I will do a laundry, and I want you to go have a shower because you’re not going to bed smelling like a McRib.”

So much for the cologne idea.

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

Chicken McNuggets became so popular that other QSR chains quickly rolled out their own versions. As a result, there was a chicken shortage in the food supply chain. The McRib was an alternative. Arend said the sandwich would have been cheaper and easier to produce if it was a round patty on a hamburger bun. But he is an executive chef. He wanted the McRib patty to look like a rack of ribs on a bun. It even had ridges. I wonder if anyone ever thought they would think there were bones in the sandwich and that they would chip their teeth? I guess when people say, ‘there is no such thing as a stupid question,’ we just blew up that theory.

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. 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.

“Who is your team?” she quipped, condescendingly. I did the only thing I could do, shouting as loud as I could.

“USA! USA! USA!”

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.

“Would you like plastic bags?”

“Yes please,” I replied.

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

The McRib patty is made from restructured ground pork shoulder. Meat restructuring was a process developed by the US Army to deliver low-cost meet to its troops in the field. The process was not patented, and McDonald’s used the work of meat

I was just about to drift back into ADD world and

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.

As I was in the shower, my mind wandered. Don’t they take what they call Canadian bacon from the park shoulder? And that’s where they get the meat for the McRib too? Why didn’t they promote Canadian pork McRib or something?

I thought to myself some more. My favourite food at McDonald’s, besides the McRib, is the McGriddle breakfast sandwich.

Has anyone at McDonald’s ever thought how incredible it would be to have little round McRib patties smeared in McRib sauce and put them in a maple McGriddle sandwich bun?

Maybe if I call ahead they can custommake one for me.

In the meantime, I will be at Home Depot looking at freezers.

“Blah blah blah,” the salesman will say.

“That’s nice,” I would reply. “So how many frozen McRib sandwiches will it hold?”

By the way, did you hear that Tim’s brought back the blueberry fritter?!?

Loblaw decision to maintain 50% discount on expiring food a win for local families

By Sylvain CharleBoiS

It all started with an email from Loblaw last month announcing its plan to reduce the discount on soon-to-expire fresh food items. They intended to lower the discount from 50 percent to 30 percent in stores where the previous discount policy was still in place.

This adjustment was scheduled to be rolled out gradually over several weeks across the country, impacting a range of Loblaw’s store banners.

It’s worth noting that many other stores had already abandoned this practice years ago. However, the timing of this decision, in January 2024, when many consumers are grappling with financial challenges, did not sit well with Canadians. Not one bit.

Fortunately, Loblaw eventually reconsidered its decision and opted – in the face of the concerns voiced by the public –to maintain the 50 percent discount on expiring food items. It’s not the first time Loblaw

has reversed a decision in response to public sentiment.

In 2016, Loblaw reversed its decision to stop carrying French’s products after facing a significant public backlash, famously known as the “Ketchup Wars.” During that time, consumers boycotted the stores, driven by a sense of patriotism and a desire to support tomato farmers in Leamington, whose Heinz plant had recently been saved by a contract with French’s – a major competitor to Heinz – to produce tomato paste. Loblaw saw its sales plummet within days.

This time around, however, the public outcry was driven by sheer desperation.

While some called for a boycott in response to Loblaw’s discount decision, the company’s rationale for the change prompted many to reconsider. Loblaw argued that it was aligning its discounting policy with competitors, a common industry practice. However, the concern was that consumers would now see

similar discounts everywhere, with 30 percent becoming the new benchmark. Some politicians even called on the Competition Bureau to investigate the matter.

Another peculiar aspect of Loblaw’s strategy this time was its decision not to engage with reporters. Instead, the news of the policy change came from Dalhousie’s AgriFood Analytics Lab, which received confirmation from Loblaw about the adjustments to its discounting approach. This lack of communication raised questions about corporate transparency, a crucial element of corporate compassion.

Loblaw may be hesitant to communicate with the public due to the widespread negative sentiment towards the leading grocery chain. However, why the company would make such a decision remains incomprehensible, especially now.

Discounting expiring products has traditionally been a win-win situation for consumers and retailers. Consumers

save money, while grocers reduce food waste at the retail level – a straightforward benefit for all. The policy can lead to significant savings for consumers, with the 20 percent difference between a 50 percent and a 30 percent discount translating to $10 on a $50 piece of meat, a common scenario in today’s market.

Before the change, Loblaw had planned to encourage its customers to use the FlashFood app, which had recently been revamped and saw a triple increase in downloads this week after Loblaw’s decision became public, according to the company. Food-rescuing apps like FlashFood, FoodHero, and Too Good To Go are valuable for those looking to save money, but they lack the tactile experience of inspecting expiring products in a physical store. Many consumers prefer the advantage of personally assessing expiring food items in-store before making a purchase.

It’s never too late to do the

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

right thing, and Loblaw eventually showed its compassion by reversing its initial decision. Most Canadians can appreciate that retailers have the flexibility to adjust their discounting policies to stay competitive.

However, this decision had the potential to generate a significant public relations crisis, as it touched upon issues of food affordability, food waste, and Loblaw’s reputation. And

it did. The initial decision itself was flawed, and the timing couldn’t have been worse. Thankfully, the company ultimately made the right choice for all of us.

Now, if we can encourage other grocers to follow Loblaw’s lead by offering a 50 percent discount on expiring food items, that would truly be a welcome development.

© Troy Media

Sometimes Braid hits the nail, but in his last letter he hit his thumb

The Editor,

Once again, letter writer extraordinaire Andy Braid has racked his brain to come up with a spin to criticize any and all things and people Conservative.

Sometimes, his hammer hits the nail. In the last issue, however, his hammer missed the nail completely and whacked his thumb.

We all agree that Ontario’s family doctor shortage is in a critical state. There are 2.3 million Ontarians without a family doctor, and Mr. Braid references an Ontario Medical Association report that indicates that the number of people without a family doctor is ex-

pected to double over the next two years.

What Mr. Braid neglected to mention was that the family doctor crisis hit us hard during the McGuinty-Liberal Government era, and continued through the Wynne-Liberal Government era. The FordProgressive Conservative inherited the mess, so it’s not like this is something that the current government created.

The family doctor crisis is also not just an Ontario problem. It is a problem that is plaguing every single province in the Dominion, including – gasp – provinces not under the tyranny of a Conservative Government.

Another conveniently omitted fact involves the record level of immigrants and refugees being absorbed by Canada, and more specifically, Ontario. The latest figures estimate that 700,000 people landed in Ontario from other countries last year. I think we can all agree on that adding that many people, most of whom end up in the GTA, is not realistic. I’m no math genius, but I would estimate that putting 700,000 immigrants and refugees in Ontario would increase the number of Ontarians without a family doctor by approximately 700,000 people.

Where Mr. Braid goes off the rails of common sense,

however, is his criticism of local MPP Goldie Ghamari and the Progressive Conservatives for some of the positive things they are doing in other areas. The Progressive Conservative Government has introduced a new back to basics education program for kindergarten students, which he called “fiddling while Rome burns.” He was also critical of the fact that Premier Ford has eliminated the need for people to renew license plate stickers.

Mr. Braid seems to think that just because there is a healthcare crisis, the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Education are not allowed to do their jobs to make

our province a better place to live. I don’t remember a world without having to spend meaningless dollars for a meaningless sticker, but I would think that getting rid of this cash grab is a good thing.

I won’t speak for other parents, but I, for one, welcome the fact that our children will actually be learning when they go to school. Our young people have the lowest rates of reading, writing and math proficiency since these things began being tested and measured.

But are we supposed to tell our teachers not to teach kids how to read or add or subtract because there are not enough family doctors?

That makes no sense.

MPP Ghamari and Premier Ford, along with the other MPPs and the Cabinet Ministers, are all probably extremely aware of the healthcare crisis in Ontario. It is not an easy nor instant fix.

Despite the family doctor shortage, they still have to do their jobs in other areas, like building more schools, building more roads, improving our education system, and supporting the farming and agricultural community.

To think all of that should stop because we don’t have enough family doctors is absurd.

Cindy Ferguson

LGBTQ+ reader disappointed in letter defending ‘transphobic rant’

The Editor, It really saddens me to see a community as warm and colorful as Manotick, where various citizens of all differences can come together and celebrate, has hypocritically not given the same grace to our LGBTQ+

citizens. I saw in last issue’s Letters to the Editor that there was a transphobic letter that read “Reader Applauds Nick Morabito for standing up to public school board”, where someone defended a trans-

phobic rant about bathrooms at a school board meeting under the guise of “freedom of speech”.

Boys are not using girl’s restrooms: transgender girls are using them. Transgender girls are not boys. To publish

this story days after the murder of Nex Benedict, a non-binary teenager in Oklahoma who was forced to use the bathroom assigned to their birth sex and was beaten fatally by three non-transgender girls, is sickening.

By giving attention to transphobic content, we dehumanize our LGBTQ+ citizens and give justification for hate crimes and murders like Benedict’s. As a young member of the LGBTQ+ community who loves Manotick, it breaks my

heart knowing there’s people in town that do not welcome me. I hope the Manotick Messenger highlights more positive LGBTQ+ stories and letters in the future. Stand strong, and in love.

Claire Aimée Spencer

Expiring food discounts at Loblaw stores were lowered from 50 to 30 per cent before being restored back to 50 per cent.

YOUTH

by Phill Potter

Grade: 12

School: Osgoode Township High

Grade: 12

Parents: Heather and Dennis Wyche

by Phill Potter

Parents: Heather and Dennis Wyche

By DaviD Brown riDeau-Jock councillor

By now, many readers are aware that Ottawa is hosting a rural summit this year. As I have written about frequently, it is an opportunity for rural residents to have their voices heard on the issues that matter most to them. It is also chance for rural Ottawa to strike a better deal with the urban areas of the City.

It’s about time if you ask me. For too long, our communities have been unable to have our priorities reflected adequately around the Council table.

At the core of this issue is how rural affairs is structured and what authorities are granted to the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee (ARAC). In my view, many of the issues that our communities grapple with – including truck traffic in Manotick, speeding in villages, poor infrastructure, a lack of access to services, and more – all stem from this common set of governance challenges.

When it comes to ARAC, at present, the Committee does not have much authority on its own. Our meetings tend to be quite short because issues that we discuss are items that require common sense and are rarely contentious. However, matters that are extremely important to rural Ottawa are often decided upon by other Committees or Council as a whole. There are only 5 rural Councillors; this often means that rural interests are effectively sidelined in favour of urban priorities.

Despite rural Ottawa representing 10 percent of Ottawa’s population and 80 percent of its geography, ARAC only gets to deliberate on a paltry sum of money; only about $10 million went through ARAC for approval in the 2024 Budget. By way of comparison, the City’s overall budget was around $5 billion. With so little authority over how our tax dollars get

Rideau-Jock Report

David Brown, Councillor , Ward 21

spent, it’s no wonder why the City’s decisions often do not reflect our priorities.

The second issue is that “rural affairs” is not a priority within the City’s organizational hierarchy. If you looked at a City organizational chart, the group that primarily deals with rural affairs is neither a department nor a directorate. It is merely a team – a small part of the City’s structure, buried underneath a broader economic development portfolio, and with little say in the overall structure of the City.

Civil servants who handle rural files across the full spectrum of municipal authority are rarely centralized in the City; they are spread across departments where their managers are unlikely to intimately appreciate rural considerations and interests. The City governs for the 90 percent of residents who are urban, and by consequence, the 10 percent of residents who are rural are often left behind.

The issue is not the intelligent, dedicated, and hardworking public servants, it is a structure that they operate under that simply does not get things done. Fixing that structure is therefore crucial.

I am currently developing a proposal that would fix that structure, centralizing more of rural authority under a dedicated team at the City and providing ARAC with greater authority over the matters that are within rural jurisdiction. It is my belief that through the rural summit, we can make meaningful progress on these important files.

Sisters: April (20), OTHS, UNB Fredericton. Violet (20), Canterbury (vocals), Carleton University. Ivy (22), St. Mark, Algonquin College.

Sisters: April (20), OTHS, UNB Fredericton. Violet (20), Canterbury (vocals), Carleton University. Ivy (22), St. Mark, Algonquin College.

Pets: Two dogs, Ewok and Pixie, and a cat.

Part-time Work: “Cheerleading and tumbling coach at Kemptville Infinity in Kemptville.)

lem solving. Since the concepts are not broad, and there isn’t much interpretation to be done, it’s more just problem solving, which is what makes me enjoy those classes the most.”

I have been greatly encouraged by working with the Mayor and his office on these concerns. He shares

lem solving. Since the concepts are not broad, and there isn’t much interpretation to be done, it’s more just problem solving, which is what makes me enjoy those classes the most.”

the school. I was a cheerleader for 10 years, but I could no longer continue due to concussions, so I turned to coaching. It has given me an opportunity to continue in the sport, even though I can no longer participate in it.”

due to concussions, so I turned to coaching. It has given me an opportunity to continue in the sport, even though I can no longer participate in it.”

Rural Ottawa deserves better from the City of Ottawa

our view that rural Ottawa deserves its place as a distinct part of the municipality, and he fully understands that there is no “one-sizefits-all” solution that works for Ottawa. Mayor Sutcliffe is a champion of rural Ottawa, both in public and in private, and I am confident that he takes these long-

Pets: Two dogs, Ewok and Pixie, and a cat.

Favourite Subjects: “Math and Chemistry. I enjoy doing labs and prob-

Part-time Work: “Cheerleading and tumbling coach at Kemptville Infinity in Kemptville.)

What is your Greatest Accomplishment? “Earning the title of Student Council President at my school. The process was not easy, but I persevered and made it through, even though there were setbacks along the way. It has also been a very rewarding accomplishment, as I’ve gained so many opportunities, and gotten to network with other youth like myself.”

Favourite Subjects: “Math and Chemistry. I enjoy doing labs and prob-

standing governance challenges seriously.

pating in several different sports. These include soccer, futsal, volleyball, coed volleyball, and touch football. I also enjoy traveling and learning about different locations and cultures. I’ve travelled to many places and I find it very interesting how every culture has unique traditions and subcultures. My favourite place is Norway, because there is such beautiful places all over the country and amazing hiking. The next location I wish to travel to is Iceland, because it’s a very open country, with very kind citizens, and lots to see.”

Why did you get involved in what you do? “I got involved in Student Council because I saw it as an opportunity to make

I know that it might not be exciting to read about the idiosyncrasies of municipal governance. But it is nonetheless vital. If we want to fix issues in a structural fashion so that we may address the challenges that have plagued our commun-

What is your Greatest Accomplishment? “Earning the title of Student Council President at my school. The process was not easy, but I persevered and made it through, even though there were setbacks along the way. It has also been a very rewarding accomplishment, as I’ve gained so many opportunities, and gotten to network with other youth like myself.”

Career Goals: “After high school I hope to go to university somewhere near the east coast; hopefully in kinesiology. My top choice schools are University of New Brunswick in St. John, and Dalhousie in Halifax. After that, I hope to pursue a career in either athletic therapy, or education.”

volleyball, and touch football. I also enjoy traveling and learning about different locations and cultures. I’ve travelled to many places and I find it very interesting how every culture has unique traditions and subcultures. My favourite place is Norway, because there is such beautiful places all over the country and amazing hiking. The next location I wish to travel to is Iceland, because it’s a very open country, with very kind citizens, and lots to see.”

ities for years with far too little progress being made, then we must attack these problems at their common root: a system of governance that does not work.

After suffering numerous concussions, Melita Wyche turned to coaching.

What we need to go back to is that “small town efficiency” that existed before we became part of the big city.

PHILL POTTER PHOTO

Why did you get involved in what you do?

“I got involved in Student Council because I saw it as an opportunity to make

Career Goals: “After high school I hope to go to university somewhere near the east coast; hopefully in kinesiology. My top choice schools are University of New Brunswick in St. John, and Dalhousie in Halifax. After that, I hope to pursue a career in either athletic therapy, or education.”

I would encourage residents to stay tuned to the Rural Summit engagement process by going to engage.ottawa.ca/ruralsummit-2024 and signing up for updates. You can also share your thoughts on your priorities for rural Ottawa directly by emailing ruralsummit@ottawa.ca.

After suffering numerous concussions, Melita Wyche turned to coaching.

Community Calendar

PHILL POTTER PHOTO

Community Events & Activities

Manotick Family Skate Night - Every Sunday 4-6pm until the end of February, the Manotick Culture, Parks, & Recreation Association is hosting family-friendly skates (weather permitting) at Centennial Park. For regular updates go to https://www. facebook.com/events/3649349838680239?ref=newsfeed

Chic Time in the Tick Returns with The Enchanted Garden Gala in May 2024

• Ottawa Futsal Club entering their 29th season indoor soccer. Youth boys & girls, women, men & coed. Players / teams wanted. All skill levels. League starts October ends April 2020. Please go online at www.futsalottawa.com. Early bird ends September 21st

• Ottawa Newcomers Club - For women who have recently moved to this area; (and those who have experienced a significant life change), and would like to meet new people of similar interests by joining our many group activities. More information at: ottawanewcomersclub.ca or by contacting newcomersclubottawa@gmail.com.

• Old Time Fiddle Music & Dance - East Osgoode Greely Assoc, First Friday of each month, invites & welcome all Musicians, Dancers & Listeners. Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Drive, Greely. For additional info call 613 489-2697.

Save the date! Friday, May 10, 6 pm-11 pm - Chick Time in the Tic presents a Night in an Enchanted Garden Gala at the Manotick Curling Centre, 5519 South River Drive. The longawaited return of a popular fundraising event for our community through the Manotick Culture, Parks and Recreation Association (MCPRA). $95 /person - buffet dinner & dancing. Great night out for the ladies! For tickets and more information go to www. mcpra.org. Tickets sell out quickly - buy yours today!

• Ottawa Futsal Club entering their 29th season indoor soccer. Youth boys & girls, women, men & coed. Players / teams wanted. All skill levels. League starts October ends April 2020. Please go online at www.futsalottawa.com. Early bird ends September 21st

• Ottawa Newcomers Club - For women who have recently moved to this area; (and those who have experienced a significant life change), and would like to meet new people of similar interests by joining our many group activities. More information at: ottawanewcomersclub.ca or by contacting newcomersclubottawa@gmail.com.

NEW! Buddy Check Coffee -10am - Manotick Legion at 5550 Ann St. Everyone welcome! Now running every second Wednesday of every month. For more information contact: Terry Hunter at peilighthorse@hotmail.com

Tickets are on sale now. For more information and to purchase tickets go to https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/chic-time-in-the-tickpresents-an-enchanted-garden-gala-tickets-718834522407

• Thursday Fun Night for adults and children. An optional supper at 5:45 pm. Indoor soccer/games, crafts, or nursery for ages 0-11. Parenting course, Alpha course, or Growing in Faith/Hearing God course for adults, 6:30 - 7:30 pm. To try it out contact, discipleship@trinitybiblechurch.ca

• Friday Night Country Music & Dance Club The Greely Legion the fourth Friday of each month. Bring along an instrument to play, or come in to sing, listen and dance. Admission is FREE. Greely Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road, ON. Information: 613-822-1451 or 613-826-6128.

Youth of Manotick Association is a registered not-for profit organization offering safe, social, inclusive programs and activities for youth in our community. Friday nights

Pre-Teen Program for youth in Grades 4-6 6:30 - 8:00 pm / Youth Drop-In for youth age 12-17 7:30 - 9:00 pm. See the website for more information https://www.yoma.ca

• Tuesday Dance Party The Greely Legion hosts live music on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Bring along an instrument to play, or come in to sing, listen and dance. Admission is FREE. Greely Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road, ON. Information: 613-822-1451 or 613826-6128.

• Old Time Fiddle Music & Dance - East Osgoode Greely Assoc, First Friday of each month, invites & welcome all Musicians, Dancers & Listeners. Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Drive, Greely. For additional info call 613 489-2697.

have been postposed or

The Manotick and Area Centre for Arts & Wellness focuses on intergenerational connections for seniors through arts and wellness. This includes a multitude of activities such as Tai Chi, yoga, art, music, and dance classes as well as community dances. Their popular concert series focuses on our local singers and musicians. For more info go to https://www.manotickmacaw.com

• Thursday Fun Night for adults and children. An optional supper at 5:45 pm. Indoor soccer/games, crafts, or nursery for ages 0-11. Parenting course, Alpha course, or Growing in Faith/Hearing God course for adults, 6:30 - 7:30 pm. To try it out contact, discipleship@trinitybiblechurch.ca

STEVENS CREEK SHUTTER CO

Progressive Euchre Tournament - First Saturday of the month at the Legion- Register at 12:30 pm; play at 1 pm. For more information, contact: danspitzig@gmail.com

613-692-0015

• Friday the fourth play, Greely 613-822-1451

SHADES SHUTTERS DRAPERY

Ottawa Public Library - Manotick Branch

& more

Free shop-at-home service

The Manotick Library has many activities for children and adults, including an Adult French Conversation Group, Family Literacy Day on January 27th, and story and craft programs. To discover all the events happening at the Manotick branch go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/

• Tuesday the 1st pm. listen Mitch 826-6128.

613-706-1250

stevenscreekshutterco.ca

By Ralph Tweedie ManoTick kiwanis cluB

As Kiwanians, we have pride in our community. Often, Kiwanis members support their neighborhood as individuals or as members of other community service organizations.

One such member is Jim Stewart, in partnership with his wife Sheila. They have been actively involved in our community for over 50 years. Jim and Sheila moved to Manotick in 1972.

On moving to Manotick, Jim joined the Manotick Curling Club and soon served as its treasurer. He held that position for seventeen years as well as 10 years as treasurer for the Ottawa Valley Curling Association. The Ontario Curling Association honoured Jim with its Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedicated service.

Jim, in partnership with Karl Bilyj (another Kiwanis member) had a key role in launching the Little Rocks Curling Program for ages 6 to 11 and purchasing their equipment. Office Pro has helped sponsor many of the Little Rock teams and this program has produced multiple champions.

Jim played Old-timers Hockey and in the 1975-76 season was a founding member of the Manotick Old-timers League.

In 1978, Jim was the first president of the new Kinsmen Club of Manotick. Sheila was the first president of the Kinettes. The Kinsmen soon

ber Award.

Ralph Tweedie

In 1983, Jim and Sheila purchased Manotick Office Pro. Over the years, their business has supported the community. They stock books from local authors, sell tickets for fundraisers and promote charitable events. They sell our Kiwanis Cook Book, Christmas cakes, shortbread cookies and chocolate truffles. They often donate their time, efforts and prizes for local teams and events.

During the 80’s, Jim served for 6 years as a Rideau Township councillor and was Mayor of the township from 1991 to 1997. He also served as councillor for the Regional Municipality of Ottawa-Carleton. Jim was a Chief Election Official twice for the province and served as second in command federally on seven occasions.

Jim has had a long association with the Miller’s Oven Restaurant. As mayor, he was involved in fundraising and purchasing the building from the Rideau Valley Conservation Association (RVCA). He was chairman of the Miller’s Oven volunteer board for seventeen years and seven years as treasurer. He is a Chartered Accountant and has volunteered as treasurer/auditor for several local groups including the BIA.

Church Directory

*All churches wheelchair accessible*

Manotick ..United .Church

As former mayor, he is most proud of bringing city water and the fire hydrants to the village. Subsequently, land was purchased and the fire station

Jim and Sheila proudly support the local businesses that help make Manotick such a

5567 Manotick Main Street, Manotick, Ontario, K4M 1A5

We welcome all, who with God’s help, work to build a better world.

Rev. Paul Whynacht

Sunday Worship at 10 am

Office hours are:

Wed 9a.m.-4:30p.m. Thurs-Fri 1p.m.-4:30p.m. admin@manotickunitedchurch.com

www.manotickunited.com 613-692-4576

ST. JAMES’ ANGLICAN CHURCH

1138 Bridge Street, Manotick

–Serving South Barrhaven, riverSide South and Manotick–

Sunday Services

Holy Eucharist at 8:15 & 10 a.m.

“A Christian community joyfully serving & growing in God’s love”

(Elevator Access Provided)

Church Office 613-692-2082 Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 9-4

The Reverend Kerri Brennan e-mail office@stjames-manotick.ca

Web site: www.stjames-manotick.ca

The Catholic Communities of St. John the Evangelist

ACCESSIBLE

2540 Stagecoach Road, Osgoode and St. Brigid 2015 River Road, Manotick

Pastor: Rev. Michael Wright

ST. JOHN: MASS TIME

Saturdays 4 p.m., Sundays 9 a.m.

ST. BRIGID: MASS TIME

Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Telephone: (613) 821-0761 Email: stbrigid.stjohn@gmail.com

Office Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 9am–3pm Friday. 9am-12pm

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

Jim nd Sheila Stewart of Manotick Office Pro are also big supporters of the community.

Large crowd shows gratitude at local Farmers Appreciation Breakfast

A crowd of close to 200 people squeezed into the St. Philip Catholic Church Hall for the annual Carleton Farmers’ Appreciation Breakfast hosted by Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari Sat. Feb. 24.

The free breakfast

featured pancakes and syrup, sausages, eggs, baked beans, coffee and juice. Many members of the farming community in the Carleton riding were present to enjoy the breakfast. Guests included Rideau-Jock Councillor

David Brown and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. Local members of the 4-H Club were volunteers at the breakfast. Osgoode’s popular and versatile entertainer, Dr. Kaboom, was on hand to make sure that children in attendance received balloon animals or balloon swords.

“We have all seen the signs that we will randomly drive by in the Carleton riding: Farmers Feed Cities,” Ghamari told the crowd. “The signs are a reminder to our suburban and urban neighbours of the importance of farms locally, throughout Ontario, and nationally. But as poignant as the signs are, they only scratch the surface.”

Although when Ottawa is talked about nationally it is usually in reference to Parliament Hill, one of the little known facts about the city is that it has the largest farming and agricultural economy of any city in Canada. The Carleton riding alone is larger than the

City of Toronto. Ottawa is so vast geographically that the cities of Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary can all fit within the Ottawa boundaries.

Ghamari spoke to the audience about the importance about the local farming industry.

“In Carleton, farming is the backbone of our lo-

cal economy,” she said. “It is responsible, by far, for more jobs than any other industry in Carleton.

A team of volunteers made sure that the crowd of close to 200 was well fed.

The Carleton Farmers Appreciation Breakfast gives MPP Goldie Ghamari a chance to meet and greet local residents. breakfast continues on page 11

breakfast continues from page 10

“Last year, Ontario Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Honourable Lisa Thomson, gave us a tremendous presentation at this breakfast about the future of farming in Ontario and the global markets being opened up to the province’s food suppliers. Food from Ontario is being consumed globally.

“Maybe the Farmers Feed Cities signs need to be updated. Maybe they should read Ontario Farmers Feed the World.”

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe thanked MPP Ghamari and Councillor Brown for the work they do and the representation they provide to the community. The mayor

emphasized the strong working relationship he had with both local representatives. He also thanked the farmers in attendance for the work they do in the city.

“Ottawa is such a fascinating city because 80 per cent of Ottawa is rural,” said Sutcliffe. “I know at times you feel that’s overlooked at City Hall and that your voice is not heard at City Hall. I want you to know that we are

working on that and that your voice is very much important to me.”

Sutcliffe added that the City of Ottawa will be hosting a rural summit.

“The agricultural economy is very important to our city,” he said. “We want to preserve the character of rural villages and communities, and continue to build on this tremendous strength that we have – the commun-

ity spirit like we have in this one.

“We will continue to listen and I will continue to spend as much time as I can in your community and throughout the rural and agricultural parts of our very large city.”

Councillor David Brown, a graduate of the 4-H program, acknowledged the 4-H Club members working as volunteers at the breakfast.

“They really are the next generation,” Brown said. “As Richmond grows and we start to become a little more

urbanized, it’s really important for me, because I grew up in this village working on farms, that we don’t actually lose that history and our past.

“It’s really important that we remember that we’re still agricultural, we’re still communities based on agriculture, and there is still a future for folks that want to go into that.”

Ghamari will be hosting a breakfast for International Women’s Day at Danby’s Restaurant in Richmond Fri., March 8.

Councillor David Brown shares a lighter moment on stage with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and MPP Goldie Ghamari.

MPP Goldie Ghamari and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe discuss agricultural challenges with one of the farmers in attendance at the breakfast.

Dr. Kaboom was busy making balloon animals, hats and swords for the children in attendance.

The removal of Imam Dr. Zijad Delic blindsided many members of the South Nepean Muslim Centre earlier this month.

Imam Delic has been the spiritual leader of the Muslim community for Barrhaven, Riverside South, Manotick and the surrounding area since before the SNMC was built, dating back to the days when prayer sessions were held at Jockvale School.

A couple dozen demonstrators protested the imam’s sudden departure in front of the SNMC, wearing “Bring Back Imam Zijad” t-shirts. Signs posted on Woodroffe Ave. called for the SNMC to “Bring back Imam Zijad.”

Abdallah Bayaa set up a GoFundMe page to assist Dr. Delic.

“This fundraiser is to help Imam Zijad deal with his affairs in the immediate term. I would also love nothing more than to see this support the effort to restore him as the Imam of SNMC. If you are already donating to SNMC, I urge you to consider supporting this cause directly, at least until circumstances change,” wrote Bayaa.

Bayaa set a goal of $10,000 and as of Fri., Feb. 23, he was 85 per cent of the campaign’s goal.

“On a personal level, I’m not appealing to the world, I’m appealing to the people of Barrhaven first and foremost. You have seen with your eyes and experienced Zijad’s character first hand for many years. We benefit the most from his presence. And it would be nice for my kids to have a Sheikh they think is cool too!,” Bayaa wrote.

Bayaa was one of the protestors on Woodroffe Ave. He told CBC that “a lot of us don’t exactly know what’s going on. What we do know is that he was removed from his position. This is a well-known imam, well-respected within the community, and here for a long time.”

Dr. Delic is prohibited from speaking to the media or making social media posts about his dismissal.

On Sun., Feb. 11, the SNMC issued a statement to the CBC.

“This matter is governed by labor laws. Following the recommendation of SNMC legal counsel, we cannot comment on it.

“We serve over 10,000 very diverse community members. We are one of the most active and welcoming religious institutions. We have members of other faith groups who participant in some of our programs as well, which we are happy to see. With that much diversity it is normal to have differences, we respect the right of people to express their views.

“The board of SNMC is an elected board that makes decisions in the best interest of SNMC. The board follows the different laws and Acts that govern charitable organizations, including following SNMC bylaw, which the organization is founded on.”

In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, there are also to change.org pages dedicated to the reinstatement of the popular imam.

A page started by Mehran Khan had more than 3,100 signatures by Fri., Feb. 23.

“Our beloved Imam Zijad has been unjustly fired,” Khan states in the petition. “He’s been with the Barrhaven community for decades and has impacted everyone deeply. This decision is not being taken lightly and as the SNMC community, we would like answers. Our input in such important decisions matters.”

Mohamed Salem was among the first to sign the petition.

“In times when the Muslim communities struggle adequate, modest, and well educated leadership, firing a long well-established and trust-

worthy leader like Imam Zijad Delic by the SNMC board without proper justification to the community and in complete disregard of its will, only compromises the trust in this board and serves to weaken the Muslim community and its strive for unity. If the board does not reinstate the Imam, the community could call to stop donating to the Masjid until the board resigns and reelection takes place.”

While the SNMC did not offer reasons for the dismissal of Dr. Delic, CBC reported that it received an emailed statement that it was “an internal matter that is being solved quickly.”

Imam Dr. Zijad Delic talks to Conservative Party of Canada leader and former local MP Pierre Poilievre in a meeting last year.

X P h oto

Investment will help Ontario build rural community leaders

The Ontario government is investing up to $836,250 over three years to increase the capacity of rural volunteers and organizations across the province. The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies is partnering with the Rural Ontario Institute to build upon the good work done by agricultural society volunteers by providing training and workshops that will enhance leadership and governance skills as well as management practices.

“Ontario’s agricultural societies play an important role in leading amazing, annual rural community activities. This educational initiative will enhance the leadership, governance skills and best management practices in important rural organizations, and by extension our agriculture and food industry across the province,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “By investing in people who give so much to

maintain our rural traditions and communities, we are showing our appreciation for their commitment and leadership.”

This funding will help the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies partner with the Rural Ontario Institute to provide educational supports focused on leadership, governance, and community engagement to more than 200 agricultural societies across the province. It will also aid the development

of other resources that will help agricultural societies hold fairs and events promoting agriculture and the agrifood industry.

“This support is an investment in the future of agricultural societies across Ontario by developing strong leaders and ensuring the vitality of the agri-food sector and rural communities,” said Vince Brennan, Executive Director, Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies.

Agricultural societies are

run mainly by volunteers and play a critical role in educating people about the importance of agriculture and celebrating a rural way of life. Supporting this important sector will ensure the long traditions and economic contributions of agricultural societies continue to thrive and attract new talent. By building leadership capacity and involvement within the agriculture and food industry, this investment will further benefit rural communities

while maintaining an important tradition at fairs where the ‘best of the best’ in community, the homecraft division, and agricultural competitions continue to be celebrated.

The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies has been in operation for over 175 years. Ontario’s agri-food industry generated over $48 billion in provincial Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employed one in ten Ontarians based on 2022 data.

Warm temperatures and rain to cause early melt across Rideau Valley Watershed

Unseasonably warm temperatures combined with significant rainfall are expected to trigger a widespread melt across the Rideau Valley Watershed.

Although snow conditions are considered below normal for this time of year, the warm temperatures and added rain will trigger an accelerated melt. Water levels and flows

are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures over this period. If additional rainfall occurs, flooding is possible on smaller creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed, including Stevens Creek and any connected creeks or ditches (near North

Gower) which are highly susceptible to spring flooding.

This short-term forecast does not suggest flooding will occur along the Rideau River, however the elevated water levels and flows will make the region more susceptible to flooding if another storm event occurs in the near future.

While significant flooding is not anticipated at this time,

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it is advised that residents adjacent to smaller tributaries and streams take precautionary measures to protect their property, including:

- Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve

- Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump

- Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 metres from the dwelling

- Securing items that might float away as flows increase

- Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding

- Keeping emergency phone numbers handy

- Familiarizing yourself

with your municipality’s Emergency Preparedness Plan

- With the expected temperature shift over the coming days, ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers will be unstable. Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.

Starlight synchronized skating team wins national championship

Starlight Intermediate synchronized skating team placed first at the Skate Canada Cup competition, beating out teams from across the country for the top spot. Winning this competition, held in Waterloo from February 25-26, represents the first time ever that an Ottawa youth team has taken home the title of national champion. It was also the pinnacle of a perfect season for the Starlight team, who earned gold medals at every competition leading up to the Canada Cup.

The Starlight Synchronized skating club is based out of Ottawa’s west end and features a team figure skating sport where 8-16 skaters skate in unison, performing elements such as blocks, circles, lines, intersections, and spins. The team has a number of skaters from the Manotick Messenger coverage area.

The Starlight Intermediate team made a name for itself at the 2023 Canada Cup, held in Calgary, with a second-place finish. Starlight was able to build on this momentum and its reputation for skating to sophisticated and technical programs. It started off the 2023-24 season strong with a gold medal win at the Invitation Synchro Nova St-Hubert in Quebec in December and never looked back.

“This team was special from the very beginning. The skaters trusted the process, put in the practice, and believed in

each other – it was a coach’s dream,” said coach Susan Chouinard. “This team surpassed my wildest expectations with an undefeated season.”

The team’s program, with the theme “Overcome”, is about overcoming obstacles and is an emotional and powerful program designed to feature the skaters’ strength and flow on the ice. The program also

contains technically challenging moves and elements. This blend of artistry and technical difficulty was a winning combination for the team.

In Waterloo, the team earned a season best score of 88.96 for its second skate, and claimed its first place victory with a combined score of 131.90. Nexxice of Burlington finished second with a

score of 127.28 and Edge from Oakville took the bronze with 122.87. While Ontario teams dominated the podium, the category was comprised of teams from Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Starlight Synchronized Skating is hosted by the MarchKanata and Goulbourn Skating Clubs. The Intermediate team

has skaters from age 16-19 and practices a minimum of 5 hours a week, 4 hours on ice and 1 hour off-ice.

The Starlight Intermediate team shows off their Skate Canada Cup gold medals. Front row left to right: Ella Naughton, Cadence James, Rachel Heuchert, Aimee Zhang, Malea Kulkarni, Taylor Glover, Abigail Levac, and Angela Zheng. Back row left to right: Chloe Leclaire, Hayley Smith, Kadynn Morrison, Tess Overvelde, Knox Marshall, Olivia Goldie, Keke Qiu, Emily Qin, and Chloe Wilkes.

Jr. B Royals blow four-goal lead but come back to beat Renfrew

The Richmond Royals survived a scare as they earned a 5-4 win after blowing a 4-0 lead against Renfrew in a Junior B hockey elimination game.

After sitting in first place for the first half of the season, the Royals hit a big slump in January and finished the season in third place in the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League Richardson Division. Carleton Place and Arnprior finished first and second and earned a first round bye, leaving the Royals to battle with the sixth place Renfrew Timberwolves in a best-offive series.

The Timberwolves dropped the first game but won the next two. The Royals fought off elimination with a close win Wednesday in Richmond to set up a Game 5 Fri., March 2 in Richmond. The game was played after the Messenger deadline, however coverage of the game is available on richmondhub.ca.

The Royals opened the series with a 4-2 win over the Timberwolves Feb. 23 at the Ma-Te-Way Centre in Renfrew.

The Royals jumped into a 2-0 lead in the first as Redi Johnston scored from Jackson Miller, and Tyler Branchaud notched a power play goal from Dylan Rorwick and Tyler Poitras.

Jackson Dallaire scored in the second from Cameron Donaldson and Zac Soifer to give Richmond a 3-0 lead.

Kosta Kastanias and Andrew Carter scored for the

Timberwolves in the third, but Rorwick’s marker from Tyler Hames put the game out of reach for the Royals.

Sam Nolan stopped 30 of 32 shots for the win.

On Sun., Feb. 25 in Richmond, the Timberwolves bounced back in a big way and earned a 6-3 win.

Dylan Rorwick, Jackson Dallaire and Sam McElheran scored for the Royals. Dallaire, Giulio Carulli, Mayson Sam and Cameron Donaldson all had assists. Colton Lux scored a pair for Renfrew with one each going to Simon Kobylecki, Joshua Lalonde, Ryan Ladouceur and Andrew carter scored one each.

The Timberwolves took a 2-1 series lead the following night as they beat the Royals 4-1 in Renfrew.

Drew Russett had the Royals goal from Tyler Branchaud. Kosta Kastanias had the hat trick for Renfrew with Connor Jackson also scoring.

Wednesday Feb. 28, the Royals were facing elimination as they hosted Renfrew in front of a large and vocal crowd. They took a 4-0 lead but then allowed Renfrew to tie the score before escaping with a 5-4 win.

Christian White had an unassisted goal in the first to give Richmond a 1-0 lead.

In the second, Jackson Dallaire scored from Donaldson and White; Rorwick scored from Russett and Simon Yang, and Branchaud scored from Hames and Rorwick. Connor Jackson

and William Herrick scored power play goals for Renfrew to make the score 4-2 after two.

The Timberwolves rallied in the third as William Herrick and Connor Jackson scored to tie the game at 4-4. With less than five minutes remaining, Trent Poitras netted the winner for Richmond from Hames and Rorwick.

Richmond goalie Ethan Dinsdale stopped 32 of 36 shots for the win and was named first star.

Game 5 was scheduled for Friday night with the

results,

winner advancing to the division semi-finals. A Rich-

mond win would put them up against the Arnprior Packers. For

visit richmondhub.ca.

The Richmond Royals bounced back for a 5-4 win Wed., Feb. 28.

Collaborative initiatives between community groups and businesses strength community bonds

By Kelly Belair ManoticK Bia

In the heart of every thriving community lies a spirit of collaboration and mutual support, where local businesses and community groups join hands to tackle shared challenges and pursue common goals. This synergy between commerce and community not only fosters economic growth but also nurtures a sense of belonging and solidarity among residents. As we navigate through the intricate tapestry of community life, it becomes increasingly evident that collaboration between community groups and businesses is essential for building a resilient and vibrant community.

Collaborative initiatives between community groups and businesses can take many forms, ranging from joint events and fundraisers to cosponsored programs and initiatives. These partnerships leverage the unique strengths and resources of both sectors, creating a powerful synergy that amplifies their impact and effectiveness.

Manotick BIA News

Kelly Belair

and businesses is the ability to address complex social issues and community needs more effectively. By pooling their resources and expertise, these partnerships can develop innovative solutions and implement initiatives that have a meaningful and lasting impact on the community.

For example, local businesses can partner with community groups to support initiatives aimed at addressing food insecurity, such as organizing food drives or sponsoring community gardens. By leveraging their resources and networks, businesses can help amplify the reach and impact of these initiatives, ensuring that no member of the community goes hungry.

Collaborative initiatives also have the power to foster a sense of belonging and connection among community members. By working

for residents to come together, build relationships, and strengthen social bonds.

Moreover, collaboration between community groups and businesses can have significant economic benefits for the community. By supporting local businesses and investing in community-led initiatives, residents contribute to the local economy, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

Collaborative initiatives between community groups and businesses also have the power to enhance the overall quality of life in the community. Whether it’s beautifying public spaces, supporting local arts and culture, or promoting environmental sustainability, these partnerships can enrich the fabric of community life and create a more vibrant and livable community for all residents.

In conclusion, collaborative initiatives between community groups and businesses are essential for building a resilient, vibrant, and inclusive community. By leveraging their respective strengths and resources, these partnerships

connection among residents, and drive economic growth. As we continue to navigate

the challenges and opportunities of community life, let us embrace the spirit of collab-

oration and work together towards a brighter future for our community.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8

Some readers may remember that a story like this was in this column last year. Much has changed since then including women learning and teaching computer skills to provide the online learning for their children. Juggling home life with family, layoffs and stay at home regulations. Covid-19 has changed so many lives in so many ways.

Women do give so much! They are caregivers, managers, leaders, providers, front line workers in so many ways and situations. They often provide for the physical, emotional, and spirit-

THis week, THIS MONTH

by Larry Ellis

ual needs of others. They pour themselves into their friends, families, and vocations. Many women are involved with organizations, groups, and churches. I would encourage the women to take some time for themselves this month. Find a place or time to meet with other women, perhaps online, share some of your joys and sorrows, be honest.

Get out and enjoy the weather as it slowly changes from Winter to Spring. You might not be able to take your shoes off and walk barefoot quite yet but at least turn your face to the warmth of the sunshine as it beams. And while you are out, look for signs of new life as trees bud and birds chirp, plant some seeds. The season for singing has nearly arrived, the cooing of the doves is heard, and there are signs of blossoming vines.

Many women wear their heart on their sleeve, others keep their feelings private. It seems many do not want to get in touch

with their emotions so keep themselves occupied with other things instead of listening to what their hearts are saying. We

were created with emotion for a reason - emotions are like a release valve for the heart. Need a local event to

remind you of how much local Women are involved in our community? I suggest “Chic Time in the Tick”.

Local nurses asked to participate in first-ever workforce census

The College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is asking Ontario’s nurses to participate in a first-of-its-kind census.

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) launched its first Workforce Census. The census, which is being sent to about 200,000 nurses in the province, includes questions that will provide CNO with key insights into both the demographics of Ontario nurses and their experiences.

“The census is an opportunity for Ontario’s registered nurses to share their experience within the health care system,” said Brent Knowles, CNO’s Director of

Analytics and Planning. “It will also provide us with a baseline to track progress toward advancing more equitable and inclusive policies.”

The Workforce Census, which has three parts, asks nurses questions about their identities; nursing practice and employment; and their experiences in the nursing system and with CNO.

CNO knows that nurses have different experiences at work and with their regulator based on their identities. The census allows CNO to understand more about these experiences, including barriers and discrimination, by asking nurses to share information around how they self-

identify.

“CNO is using the highest standards of confidentiality and privacy to conduct the Workforce Census,” added Knowles. For instance, nurses will not be asked to provide their name or registration number, and any responses cannot be linked back to them.

“The data we collect will provide CNO and our system partners, including decisionmakers in the health care system, with the information we need to improve nurses’ experience and patient safety,” said Sandra Porteous, CNO’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “We believe this is an important step to-

ward creating meaningful change.”

To create the census, CNO collaborated with valuable partners. We developed all questions in partnership with community leaders and experts in diversity, equity and inclusion who specialize in collecting data in health systems.

CNO would like to thank the Black Nurses Task Force, Canadian Black Nurses Alliance, Indigenous Primary Health Care Council, and the Pan-Canadian Association of Nurses of African Descent (Ontario Black Nurses Network and Canadian Black Nurses Network) for their support.

“It was very exciting to participate in developing the survey since it needs to be done,” said Dr. Angela Cooper Brathwaite, RN, MN, PhD, Co-Chair of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario’s Black Nurses Task Force and Past-President of RNAO. “There is a great need for this kind of data to make changes to address racism, exclusion and lack of support in the system.”

CNO will use the results to inform its diversity, equity and inclusion activities in the future. “Developing the Workforce Census is an opportunity for CNO to learn and improve,” explained Porteous. “We will continue

to apply our learnings as we develop future iterations of the census.”

“CNO taking this step is an example for other organizations,” added Cooper Brathwaite, who is also a Member of the Order of Canada, recipient of the Order of Ontario and Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. “I am encouraged that CNO is collecting this information and sharing it with other organizations. Having this data will support changes and make a difference.”

Nurses have until Thursday, March 7, 2024, to complete the Workforce Census. For more information, visit www.cno.org/census.

Summer camp options abound

Summer camp season will be here before parents know it. While children anxiously await the last day of school, adults know that it can be challenging to keep kids occupied and mentally stimulated when they aren’t in the classroom. Although it may be alright to enjoy a few days lounging around and playing video games, too much sedentary behavior is not good for anyone, even children. Families turn to summer camp to provide children with activities to occupy their time when school is

not in session.

Camps catering to a variety of interests are open to youngsters, so there’s likely one out there to excite every child. Each year, more than 25 million children and adults take part in the camp experience, says the American Camp Association. Summer camp gives kids a chance to spread their wings and enjoy new adventures. When seeking camps, families can consider interests, proximity, cost, and other variables. Here are some of the different types of camps

families can consider.

Day camp Day camps are a popular choice. Day camps tend to be general recreation camps that offer an array of activities. Campers are dropped off (or bussed) in the morning, and arrive home early evening. These camps are readily accessible and run by various organizations. Some camps enable you to pay by the week, rather than committing to an entire season.

camps continues on page 21

camps continues from page 20

Sleep-away camp

Like the name implies, sleep-away camp hosts campers overnight, typically for several weeks. This may be children’s first extended time away from home, and there’s bound to be a few nerves that spring up. Roundthe-clock activities and chances to bond with their peers can help kids overcome fears of being away from home.

Academic camp

Academic camps focus their attention on various

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subjects, putting likeminded children together. Academic summer programs ensure children’s brains stay active, helping students avoid that dreaded “summer slide.” Some of these camps mimic a school day so they are familiar to kids. Academic focus may vary from general academia to specific subjects like STEM to astronomy to the arts.

Scout camp

Boys and girls participating in scouting

programs often have the option to attend summer camp. During camp kids will have an opportunity to earn badges and advance their rank. Many scout districts have relationships with a specific scout campsite where troops from all over live and advance together for a week or so during the summer.

Fitness and sports camps

Fitness-minded campers or those who play particular sports can inves-

tigate camps that focus on fitness and sports performance. These may be more rigorous than other types of camps since they involve lots of physical activity. Wilderness preparation camp is another type of camp that may fit into this category. It will highlight survival training and help mold active hikers and campers.

Summer camp options abound. It’s only a matter of identifying a path for children and then seeking a camp that offers the desired program.

We’re so excited to see you all. Thank you for your constant support over the last years. You have no idea how much it is appreciated. Cheers to you all!

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The Ottawa Police announces new two-toned cruiser design

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is proud to announce its new two-toned cruiser design.

The cruiser consists of an all-blue vehicle with white vinyl panels installed on the front and rear doors. The Heraldic crest and “police” logo appear across the front and rear doors on both sides, with the “Ottawa” logo on both sides near the back of the vehicle. There are reflective decals on all sides to ensure public and officer safety. The new cruiser decals cost the same as the vehicles we currently have in circulation.

This new two-toned de-

sign follows what many other police services across the country have adopted, like York Regional Police, Halton Regional Police and Toronto Police. Based on recent academic research, two-toned cruisers (e.g., black and white) are more recognizable as police vehicles. The new design’s dark blue colour was selected after research by the project team and to align with the OPS’ branding.

During the OPS’ strategic consultations last year, we heard that Ottawa residents wanted more police visibility in their communities. The new design will increase public recog-

nition and visibility and allow for quick identification of OPS cruisers, helping with public/officer safety.

Within Ottawa, this design will also help differentiate Ottawa Police cruisers from other local policing and municipal partner vehicles.

Until the rollout is complete, the public will see both the new two-tone and white cruisers on the road over the next four to five years.

Ottawa Police Service’s newly designed vehicles are intended to increase visibility and public recognition.

Driving with love: ROSSS looking for more volunteer drivers

By Melissa Macisaac, ROsss

Recently, Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS) had the privilege of being featured in the newsletter of one of our biggest local supporters, Lagois Design·Build·Renovate, based in North Gower. The multi-award renovation company, this year named Renovator of the Year, raises funds each year with Ride for ROSSS, a motorcycle ride. Lagois, recently achieved the first-ever Net ZeroReady renovation in Ottawa. Founder Herb Lagois sits on the ROSSS board and has long been a wholehearted fan.

As a result of Herb’s commitment to ROSSS, we recently were the gracious recipients of a generous donation from Scotia McLeod.

“Herb Lagois told us about ROSSS,” says Bea Vanderwal, Investment Associate at ScotiaMcLeod, which then became instrumental in sizeable fundraising for ROSSS. “[Our funding] was a no-brainer, because he was so passionate about it.”

Allow me to take the opportunity to share with you the lovely article that was written by Francie Healy for the Lagois newsletter. Enjoy!

“Sam is a chatty sort of fellow. Chatty, that is, when he has someone to chat with.

Sam has lived alone near Metcalfe, Ont. since his wife,

ROSSS News

Melissa MacIsaac

Edna, died. He doesn’t drive anymore, and the days are long in his big old farmhouse in the country.

Sam will face some surgery in the next couple of months and needs to attend several medical appointments. He would have no way of getting to them if it were not for Rosemary, his reliable volunteer driver.

Rosemary drives for Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS). Sam calls her an angel. He’s not the only one who thinks she is. Rosemary brings three other seniors to medical or hair appointments, to the grocery and drug store, to social engagements and to ROSSS social drop-in programs.

It’s more than transportation. Rosemary and her fellow ROSSS volunteer drivers, like Jeff Doll, are sunshine on grey days. They’re friends. They’re good listeners. They’re company.

Jeff, a retired engineer, says his volunteer work as a driver for ROSSS gives him focus, especially after the death of his wife two and a half years ago. It helps alleviate some of his own loneliness.

He understands his clients well, because so many are widows or widowers

themselves. “We understand each other,” he says.

Jeff likes meeting new people all the time. He averages about two or three drives a week. Most of the trips are into the city. Jeff picks up clients at home, takes them to their appointments, and waits for them. He always brings something to read, and he might go for a bowl of soup. “It’s productive time for me,“ he explains. “I always find something to do.”

He speaks highly of the team at ROSSS. “They’re there because it’s where their heart is. It’s good to know there’s that much care and love in the world. And you know, what you give gives back to you.”

ROSSS provides affordable, quality health and social programs for older adults, adults living with disabilities, and their caregivers in rural communities south of Ottawa.

Because of ROSSS volunteers, many older adult members of rural communities can live independently and well at home.

ROSSS is currently in need of more volunteer drivers. They’re looking for people who:

• Would like an opportunity to meet new people

• Want to make a difference in the community and increase their own sense of purpose

• Enjoy working in a team environment

• Have good communication, listening, patience and “people skills”

• Have knowledge of best practices for working with seniors and cognitively impaired adults

• Are reliable and punctual

• Have knowledge of minimal-assist techniques to help clients with mobility challenges

• Are able to maintain confidentiality.

Training is provided.

If you own your own vehicle and would like more information, please get in touch with Della Hart, della. hart@rosss.ca; or at 613-6924697, ext. 228.

Retired engineer Jeff Doll is a ROSSS driver who offers friendship and compassion, as well as a ride.

Nominate a woman that has made a difference in your life who has shown strength, resilience, and kindness.

The chosen 30 females plus their nominators will be invited to a glamorous luncheon, filled with gifts and prizes.

Let’s pay tribute to these amazing woman on March 8, 2024!