Manotick Messenger October 6, 2023

Popular Ottawa drag queen Eden Moore entertains the crowd during A Taste of Manotick Sat., Sept. 23. Moore was a one of the many entertainers on Manotick Main Street and throughout the village. The annual Manotick BIA event is one of the largest of the year, as it offers businesses in Manotick a chance to showcase their goods and services, offer samples, and hold workshops. For more photos, see our Shop Local pages beginning on page 16.

Private Member’s Statement recognizes two women making a difference in Carleton

When the Ontario Legislature resumed on Monday, Sept. 25, I was honoured to make a Member’s Statement. I decided to recognize two women who have become crusaders in the ongoing local battle to get school buses back on the road in many parts of the Carleton riding.

The following is my Member’s Statement from Monday, September 25, 2023:

I would like to acknowledge the tireless and relentless work of two moms who live in rural Carleton.

Cheri Nixon of Osgoode and Jennifer Bugden of Munster are among the many moms in rural Ottawa who has had the lives of their family – and their community – turned upside down because the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority was unable to secure

a school bus contract for thousands of students living in suburban and rural West Ottawa.

Now, many families are facing difficult circumstances. They have a commute into the city of at least an hour for work, but they are left with no way to get their children to school.

I am proud of Cheri Nixon and Jennifer Bugden for wanting to do something about the problem. They organized Facebook groups, started petitions, and spoke with class, dignity and passion at my Community Barbecue on Saturday, September 9th.

They have stepped up and become valuable leaders in the community, joining me in the fight to get this situation resolved. They met with Minister Lecce in a Zoom call to make him fully aware of what families in rural Ottawa are facing.

In addition, Jennifer Bugden has been engaging with the community to re-open Munster Elementary School, which was shut down by the OttawaCarleton District School Board in 2015. The school’s closure put a village full of children on school buses while a beautiful and wellmaintained building has sat empty, with the exception of some weekly community events.

Jennifer and I have had opened discussions with other school boards about buying the building and re-opening the school, as

well as with the OCDSB regarding what it would take to re-open this school.

Every riding, and every community, needs people like Cheri Nixon and Jennifer Bugden. The heart and soul they have transcends the villages they live in. What they have both accomplished in a short time sets an example of dedication, determination and selflessness.

Right now, they are inspiring everyone in their community. And as their MPP, they are also inspiring me.

Connecting Ontarians to The Tools They Need to Stay Healthy This Respiratory Illness Season

Ontario is reminding everyone to stay safe this respiratory illness season and prevent unnecessary

visits to the hospital by staying up to date on vaccinations. Ontarians are encouraged to get their flu and COVID-19 shots as soon as they are available to them.

Starting this month, flu shots will be available for the most vulnerable highrisk populations, including hospitalized individuals, hospital staff and residents and staff in long-term care homes, followed by those in retirement homes and other congregate settings. Free flu shots for the general public aged six months and older will be available starting October 30th at doctor and nurse practitioner offices, some public health units and participating pharmacies. To learn more about the flu shot, visit Ontario. ca/flu.

It is safe and convenient to receive both the COVID-19 and flu shots at

the same time, reducing the need for multiple visits to a doctor, nurse practitioner or local pharmacy. The province was expecting to receive doses of Moderna’s updated SPIKEVAX XBB COVID-19 vaccine in late September, which better protects against the new Omicron XBB variant. This vaccine is Health Canada approved for people aged six months of age and older, however initial doses will be prioritized for higher risk populations and more details will be provided once doses are distributed to Ontario. The current COVID-19 vaccines will also continue to be available for Ontarians, as long as it has been a recommended six months since their previous dose.

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goldie continues from page 2

Ontario is also rolling out its first publicly funded vaccination program of the first Health Canada approved RSV vaccine, Arexvy for those 60 years and older living in long-term care homes, Elder Care Lodges, and for some retirement home residents. New changes will soon allow pharmacists to administer the vaccine, which will allow homes to hire pharmacists to administer the vaccine on site and help vulnerable populations receive their dose more conveniently without leaving their home.

Ontario continues to provide convenient access to antivirals through physicians, nurse practitioners and pharmacists, with virtual care options available through Health 811. The Ontario government is also working on changes that will allow pharmacists to prescribe the flu antiviral, Tamiflu, making it faster and easier for people to get timely care. Individuals can also continue to access rapid

antigen tests through their local Public Health Units. As of September, health care providers across the province can order rapid antigen tests to share with patients free of charge. Using the PCR testing locator, eligible individuals can also access COVID-19 molecular (PCR) testing at pharmacies and assessment centres.

With Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care and all of these additional initiatives, the government is providing Ontarians with the tools they need to stay safe and healthy this fall and winter, and avoid any unnecessary visits to the hospital. The ministry will continue to monitor trends closely and adjust as necessary.

Quick Facts - Vaccination to protect against flu and COVID-19 continues to be the best way for people to remain protected against severe outcomes, including hospitalization.

- Ontario will also offer respiratory virus testing to eligible, higher risk individuals, including those in long-term care homes and retirement homes.

- To ensure workforce capacity in the event of future emergencies, as of August 31, 2023, all 26 health regulatory colleges are required to have an emergency registration process that can be used to facilitate faster registration of health care workers during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

- Once available, you can book a COVID-19 vaccine via our website or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007 toll free) from Monday to Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time.

- For information on accessing a flu shot, please contact your health care provider, participating pharmacy or local public health unit.

- Visit Health811 online or call 811 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007 toll free) for health advice and information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ontario Strengthening Cultural and Economic Prosperity in Francophone Communities

The Ontario government announced the recipients of the 2023-2024 Francophone Community Grants Program (FCGP). Through this $2-million program, Ontario supports community organizations and small businesses that contribute to the vitality and wellbeing of the province’s Francophone communities.

Francophone businesses and community organizations are the driving force behind initiatives that fuel the growth, prosperity and well-being of our thriving Francophone community. Ontario is a proud partner of its

Francophone community. So, it’s fitting that, on Franco-Ontarian Day, we are announcing our investment of $2 million in the Francophone Community Grants Program. Our government’s commitment to the projects of 51 francophone businesses and social partners demonstrates our strong resolve to build Ontario with them and for them.

In 2021, the province doubled its funding for the Francophone Community Grants Program, one of the flagship programs under Ontario’s Francophone Economic Development Strategy that supports non-profit and for-profit organizations delivering products and services to Francophones.

Quick Facts

- Under the 2023-2024 Francophone Community Grants Program, 45 projects will receive funding from the Community and Culture stream, and six will receive funding from the Economic Develop-

ment stream.

- Forty percent of the projects selected are located in eastern Ontario, 28 percent in central Ontario, 18 percent in western Ontario and 14 percent in northern Ontario.

- Since 2017, 283 nonprofit organizations and small businesses representing a diversity of sectors, such as health and social services, have benefited from the program.

- The 2024-2025 Francophone Community Grants Program application deadline will be announced in early 2024.

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.

Your voice at Queen’s Park

Goldie

City’s Auditor General

The City of Ottawa’s Auditor General is investigating the Manotick BIA over expenses incurred in 2021 and 2022.

On Friday, Sept. 22, Auditor General Nathalie Gougeon tabled two reports stemming from an investigation of the Manotick Business Improvement Area. The reports are an investigation of the Manotick Business Improvement Area Expenses; and an investigation of the of the Manotick Business Improvement Area – role of the City of Ottawa.

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) conducted the investigation into allegations of potential inappropriate expenses incurred by the Manotick BIA that were raised through the City of Ottawa’s Fraud and Waste Hotline Program.

The investigation identified a need for the MBIA to strengthen controls over the approval and reimbursement of expenses and petty cash. The investigation highlighted several instances where expenses lacked sufficient and appropriate documentation

to confirm that the expenses incurred were reasonable and related to Manotick BIA business. The investigation also identified expenditures that the Auditor General has classified as inappropriate.

“While the MBIA Board is independent and responsible for managing the affairs of its Business Improvement Area (BIA), through our investigation we also identified areas where the city can play a greater role in supporting BIAs and enabling strengthened expenditure management and governance”, said Gougeon.

Gougeon’s report summarized the role and procedures of the BIA.

Each year, the Manotick BIA Board prepares an annual budget which is approved by the BIA members at the Annual General Meeting and by City Council. Upon approval of the annual budget by the Board and by City Council, the BIA tax rate is calculated to produce the levy amount that is needed to fund the annual budget. The levies are collected by the City through the BIA members’ property tax

bill and are administered by the City.

As the Manotick BIA does not have a bank account, all expenses incurred and approved by the BIA are paid through the City’s standard payment process.

Members of the BIA expect that the funds collected by the City are spent in accordance with the BIA’s approved annual budget and for expenses directly related to the MBIA’s business activities, and for the mutual benefit of its taxpayers within the geographical boundary. Therefore, it is important that appropriate controls are in place so that expenses incurred undergo a sufficient level of scrutiny to ensure they are reasonable, in the ordinary course of business and within budget.

In June 2021, City Council directed each BIA Board to adopt and provide mandatory governance documents to City staff by March 31, 2022, including policies with respect to the procurement of goods and services. Following City Council’s direction, City staff notified the Manotick BIA of the new documentation re-

quirements and, to an extent, provided policy language guidance and templates to facilitate the implementation.

Investigation of Manotick BIA Expenses.

Gougeon’s report summarized that rom an expenditure management perspective, “this policy document does not provide sufficient direction on the acceptable types of expenses in the ordinary course of business. This is necessary to ensure that spending is appropriate and allows approvers to ensure that the expenses are directly related to MBIA business and in line with the MBIA’s budget. Such a policy would enable the MBIA to effectively monitor costs.

Lack of supporting documentation

As noted above, the MBIA does not have a comprehensive policy that outlines the nature of acceptable expenses and expected documentation requirements to support the expenses incurred. In the absence of a policy that clearly outlines what would constitute an appropriate expenditure,

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we applied our professional judgement in the conduct of our work.

The investigation examined a total of 23 purchases of goods or services based on the nature of the allegations that were brought to the auditor general’s attention. Fourteen (61%) of the expenses reviewed lacked sufficient evidence to conclude whether the expenses directly related to Manotick BIA business activities. Examples included restaurant receipts that did not indicate the purpose of the expense or the attendees,

and some credit or debit card receipts that did not have detailed information.

“We also observed gifts of a personal nature without sufficient evidence to link back to MBIA business,” the report said. “Without appropriate supporting documentation, the OAG was unable to determine if the transactions were aligned with the spirit of the BIA Governance By-law or aligned with the MBIA’s mandate.”

Carleton MPP says OSTA funding gap

already

As the 2023-24 school year is into its fourth week, Goldie Ghamari, MPP for Carleton, says it is “unacceptable” that there are still many students in the western rural and suburban areas of the city without school bus service.

In the early summer, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), and the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) informed the Ministry of Education about transportation funding for the 2023-24 school year. OSTA had then threatened route closures in Ottawa if additional funding wasn’t provided.

Throughout the summer months, the Ministry of Education worked with the OCDSB and OCSB on supporting the boards with additional funding for the 2023-

24 school year.

“Our government committed an additional $1.8 million to OCDSB and OCSB on top of our student transportation investment of $75M for the 2023-24 school year. This also includes a commitment from the two school boards to address remaining transportation pressure needs to ensure that transportation services are stable for parents, students, and school communities,” said Ghamari.

OSTA’S website which states on July 25th confirms this commitment with the following: “Over the summer, we worked with our partners at OCDSB, OCSB, and the Ministry of Education to address the expected $6M funding shortage for the upcoming school year.”

“School transportation is funded in the same way across the province,” Gha-

mari explained. “Yet about 75% of current route cancellations occurring in the entire province are still in Ottawa’s two English school boards, with the vast majority affecting children at the OttawaCarleton District School Board.”

“This is unacceptable,” said Ghamari. “While students are back in class and getting back to the basics of reading, writing and math, through OSTA’s mismanagement with the school boards, families in Carleton and across Ottawa have experienced unnecessary duress.

“I look forward to the Ministry of Education’s directed third party review of the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority so that there is a better long-term sustainable solution to ensure this does not happen again,” said Ghamari. “In addition, I would encourage parents to

contact their local trustees to let their voices be heard.”

OSTA has been able to provide OC Transpo vouchers for students 12 and over in urban and suburban areas where city bus service is available, but that is not an option for most rural families.

“We expect better financial management from Ottawa’s two school boards and OSTA so that students can benefit from a stable and enjoyable school year with the full school experience of extracurriculars like clubs, band, sports that build real life and job skills that go beyond the classroom,” Ghamari added.

“I am encouraging parents and children impacted by this situation to share their experiences with me directly through my contact form: https://goldiempp.ca/ contact”

investigating

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Inappropriate gifts

Gougeon said the investigation revealed instances in which the MBIA incurred expenditures approved by the Board that, while in the absence of prescribed definitions of appropriate expenses, we would deem inappropriate as they do not appear to align with a BIA’s mandate.

“One example included a retirement gift of $2,400 in the form of a gift card that was approved by the Board for a staff member,” Gougeon wrote. “While the MBIA does not have prescriptive guidance that stipulates the types of eligible expenses and allowable amounts, using the City of Ottawa’s Employee Recognition Program Guidelines as a guide, this type of gift (i.e., a gift card) and the dollar value would not be acceptable.”

“Other examples included expenses for flowers and salon/spa accessories

that were gifted to Board members or their family members for compassionate reasons. While MBIA representatives indicated that these types of gifts are provided to support those within the community and their past contributions to the BIA, it is our professional opinion that such expenses are inappropriate and not aligned with the MBIA’s mandate.

It is important to have a comprehensive expenditure management policy that defines acceptable types of expenses, dollar limits, and documentation requirements. Keeping detailed records ensures that adequate supporting documentation is available for an approver to assess that expenditures are appropriate, reasonable and directly related to MBIA business prior to being submitted to the City for payment.”

A follow up report is expected in the weeks to come.

Metroland’s departure will strengthen community newspapers

The demise of the Metroland newspaper chain in no way reflects the health of the community newspaper business in Ontario.

For the past few years, the community newspaper industry has seen growth in Ontario. There is a thirst for hyperlocal content with relevant news that relates directly to the community in which we live. There is also a thirst for the credibility of journalism that must adhere to standards. When you read news in a newspaper, it is real because of the rules and parameters that newspaper must operate within.

The models that most community newspapers have seen success with is not the same model that Metroland was operating under. It is not even close.

Metroland was the community newspaper division of the Toronto Star. Their image in many

of the communities they were in was of a Torontobased corporate and distribution oriented company.

The experience we had with Metroland locally, and the experience that many community publishers have told us over the last few years, was that there was not enough focus on the community, and too much focus on building a product for the sole purpose of inserting sales flyers into it. That is not entirely true and is likely exaggerated, but when publishers across the province are sharing the same experience, you have to pay attention.

A few years ago, Metroland went on a shopping splurge and purchased many community newspapers in Ontario. For some reason, they turned around and shut down many of the newspapers they purchased within two years. The result was

that communities and small towns that relied on their local newspaper, both print and digital, lost them. Some of these publications were more than 100 years old and were cornerstones in the community.

One thing that we have always been proud of is that the Manotick Messenger is one of the only newspapers in the province that ever took Metroland on in a community newspaper turf war and won. Do you remember corporate publications like the Manotick Review, Manotick EMC and Manotick News? They were, at one time or another, owned by Metroland.

They made it very clear to anyone who would listen, particularly in the business community, that their mandate was to put us out of business in Manotick.

They didn’t, and those

publications shut down long ago.

So what made the Manotick Messenger unbeatable against the corporate giants?

That can be summed up in two words: quality and community.

There were some very good journalists that worked for Metroland locally, but the focus was not local. Most of their reporters never lived in the area, many weren’t from Ottawa, and they didn’t have a feel for the community.

For us as a small and flexible company without the huge overhead, layers of management in expensive suits, and numbers to hit as a publicly traded company, we had all of the competitive advantages we needed. We produced good, awardwinning newspapers with local, relevant stories and features. Also, we were

local. When businesses advertise with us, they are supporting local. When they advertised with them, they were supporting the Toronto Star.

We live and breath local. We shop local. We eat local. We understand local. We build local relationships. The Metroland newspapers in our community did not.

As for the communities that lost their newspapers? We have seen many new newspapers by small and flexible and passionate independent publishers pop up across the province at a record pace over the past few years. Within the next six months, many of these communities will get new newspapers.

Now, instead of the Toronto Star, we are battling Meta. The Barrhaven Independent and Manotick Messenger Facebook pages can no longer carry local news as Meta has

blocked us in their quest to kill the Canadian news industry. That’s okay. We don’t need them. We can reach way more people through newspaper and online ads for the same cost as a Facebook post and boost.

Thank you to everyone for reading our newspaper in print or online, and thank you to our loyal advertisers for keeping us alive.

And please support your community and shop local.

rene S taron MVC a P reSIdent

Presidents Message

The fall season has arrived bringing long awaited milder days and cooler nights to enjoy Village life. Be it taking in the Taste of Manotick, the seasonal harvest at Manotick’s Farmers Market, or burst of colour emerging in our parks and river shorelines, this is a season to reflect and give thanks.

Our congratulations to the Manotick BIA for hosting another successful Taste of Manotick on September 23, attracting large crowds to experience the Village vibe provided by local businesses. The MVCA was there offering complimentary popcorn to the many visitors who stopped by our booth to meet your Board members. Our thanks to Theresa Roberts, Leeanne Van der Burgt, Peggy St.John and Karen MCRae for keeping that popcorn coming! It was a great opportun-

VILLAGE VOICE

by Irene Staron, President, Manotick Village and Community Association (MVCA)

ity to speak with many of you and hear your personal stories about the benefits of MVCA membership. Your outreach makes a difference. Read on to learn more about how the 175 ft pathway on Century Road has been resolved thanks to your efforts. On the larger issue of removing heavy trucks off Bridge Street, the MVCA made a positive step forward in our presentation to the Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee and received encouraging news on the results of the City inquiry requested by Councillor Brown. Between August 8-23, 2023, MVCA volunteers collected a total 100 hours of data on heavy traffic in Manotick and Vimy Bridge. The prelim-

Grade: 12

Parents: Heather and Dennis Wyche

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

by Phill Potter

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.”

inary results of this work are currently available on the MVCA website.https:// www.manotickvca.org/ truck-traffic-and-speeding

Name: Melita Wyche

Age: 17

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

School: Osgoode Township

High

Grade: 12

The MessengerFOCUS ON YOUTH

bers and your families quality time together in this season of reflection and thanksgiving.

Activities/Interests:

FOCUS ON YOUTH

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

Parents: Heather and Dennis Wyche

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

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.”

Your membership makes a difference. For an annual $10 for individual or $15 for family, you increase the strength of our voice when dealing with the City, help keep our newsletter and website live and offset costs such as printing posters and flyers to promote the community events you’ve come to enjoy. As an amendment to the previous newsletter, the chairman for planning the Soap Box Derby is Theresa Roberts. Theresa spends countless volunteer hours organizing events sponsored by the MVCA. We wish you, our mem-

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

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

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

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

by Phill Potter

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.”

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.”

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.”

“Both inside and outside of school, I enjoy participating 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.”

Truck Traffic UpdateInquiry Results are In

On September 15th City Council received a response from City Staff to an inquiry requested earlier in the year by Councillor Brown regarding the issue of trucks in Manotick. One of the questions specifically asked by the Councillor was what measures would be necessary to remove Manotick Main between Bankfield and Century, and Bridge Street between Manotick Main Street and River Road from the City’s Truck Route Network.

a difference in my school, and to get a different perspective on all aspects of 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.”

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

• 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

In the past, staff argued

Why did you get involved in what you do?

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

that a truck route review just in the City’s south end was not possible. As a result of this inquiry, terms and costs for a local truck route review have been clarified, including what additional infrastructure might help create the necessary connections to divert trucks from Manotick. This will include the opportunity for our members and community to express their views. To continue making progress, Councillor Brown has asked the Mayor and City staff to include a south end truck route review as part of the 2024 budget. The review is estimated to be completed within 12 to 18 months of being funded.

After suffering numerous concussions, Melita Wyche turned to coaching.

In the interim, to relieve pressure on the Village

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.”

After suffering numerous concussions, Melita Wyche turned to coaching.

PHILL POTTER PHOTO

core, the Councillor will continue working with the Mayor, the MVCA and City staff toward interim measures such as adding Century Road permanently to the truck route network so that Manotick Main can be fully removed between Bridge and Century. The MVCA presented a number of recommendations to make Manotick safer for all road users in our August 25th meeting with the Mayor and Councillor Brown. The Councillor has committed to the MVCA that he will work to secure these improvements and continue fighting on our behalf until heavy trucks are finally removed from Manotick.

voice continues on page 10

• 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.

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

• 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.

Youth of Manotick Association (YOMA) offers a safe, inclusive place for local youth (Gr 4-12) to go on Friday nights. Regular programs return in September. PreTeens (Gr 4-6) have fun, themed activities from 6:30 - 8 pm. The teen Drop-In runs from 7:30 - 9:00. Both are at the Manotick Community Centre (Arena). See the website for more information and to sign up. https://www.yoma.ca/

• 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.

Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS) - ROSSS provides services, supports and social programs for older adults, seniors and adults with disabilities in rural south Ottawa. For more information go to https://rosss.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.

• 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

Ottawa Public Library - Manotick Branch – check out the Library’s schedule of interesting and fun activities for all age. .https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/program

• 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

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

• 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.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, most community have been postposed or cancelled. For updates community, please visit the Manotick Messenger page and the RichmondHub.ca website.

Throwing rural money at OC Transpo won’t help transit problem

With OC Transpo conducting a route review, City Council is debating public transit. It’s an important issue – after Community Services, OC Transpo represents the second largest funding portfolio of the City. It is a vital service for many residents.

The problem is that, even setting aside the issues of our unreliable LRT, the situation over at OC Transpo looks quite bad. Some residents have reached out to express their frustration with the system, and I wanted to take a moment to share what the issues at hand are, and why I believe more substantive, structural changes are needed.

The first major prob-

David Brown, Councillor , Ward

the federal public service returning to work in the office full time, the level of ridership needed to fund the system will not materialize.

This is because OC Transpo is intended to be funded 50% by tax levies and 50% by fares. Currently, it is funded about 70% from taxes and 30% from fares due to decreased ridership. During the pandemic, funding shortfalls were covered by the federal and provincial governments. However, that funding is no longer available, yet OC Transpo is still expected to run a major deficit once again – a deficit of close to $40

Another challenge we face is the sheer size of the municipality. Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton and Toronto all

fit within Ottawa’s boundaries and we still would have space to spare. Our ward alone is larger than the City of Toronto, and Rural Ottawa is four times larger than urban Ottawa. Ward 21’s geography is larger than all the urban and suburban parts of Ottawa combined.

The challenges of budgeting and geography have created an unfair situation for our communities. Residents in our ward contribute more than $2.75 million in transit taxes annually. Additionally, roughly a third of all development charges in rural Ottawa go toward funding transit. However, the cost of running transit to and from Ward 21 costs OC Transpo $490,000, and the two most well-

used routes in the Ward only attract about 75 average daily users when their riderships are combined.

That is to say, our ward pays more than its fair share to support the transit network City-wide despite half of the ward having limited commuter routes and the other half having no access at all. And those who can access the system choose not to use it.

Given that OC Transpo received more tax funding in 2023 than it has in any previous year of operation, throwing more money at an inefficient service won’t solve the issue. We know that because that is essentially what the City is already doing.

There is no municipal transit service in the world, irrespective of tax-

rate funded service, that provides effective service to 2,800 square kilometers of area of which 80% is rural. Likewise, residents in rural Ottawa should not be asked to pay more for services that they do not and will not receive; simply demanding more money from residents who do not receive services is not reasonable. We need to face facts. Transit is in bad shape, but constantly bailing out a system that needs a complete overhaul is not helpful. The old model isn’t what Ottawa needs anymore, and upper levels of government are unlikely subsidizing it.

To increase efficiency, I am asking City staff to consider returning rural Ottawa to a private transit

model, similar to the one we had at amalgamation. This would reduce cars on the road, provide more options for residents, and may allow for a reduction in the tax burden. Every village around Ottawa has private bus services that bring residents into Ottawa; our 26 rural villages should do the same.

Ultimately, urban Ottawa needs transit, and rural Ottawa, despite paying into the system, does not benefit from the services that OC Transpo provides. Any proposal that simply accepts this amalgamated formula is doomed to continue to fail. New solutions are needed, and in my view, private options provide the best option for taxpayers and rural transit users alike.

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

*All churches wheelchair assessable*

ACCESSIBLE Manotick ..United .Church

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

We welcome all, who with

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

Committee approves new by-law for outdoor clothing donation boxes

The City of Ottawa Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee today approved a new by-law for outdoor clothing donation boxes in Ottawa, including a mandatory permit system and regulations, to come into effect January 31, 2024.

Clothing donation box owners would need to obtain a City permit and follow regulations around box placement, signage, safety and maintenance. The proposed annual permit fee is $500, plus $150 per box operated by the permit

voice continues from page 8

City

holder.

Boxes would need to display the owner’s name and contact information. Charities and not-for-profits would need to display their valid registration numbers while non-charitable organizations would need to indicate clearly that they are not a registered charity. Box owners would be responsible for ensuring their boxes are regularly emptied and maintained, are safely designed and are placed in safe and secure, well-lit areas.

Donation boxes at City fa-

Budget UpdateHave Your Say!

In the coming weeks, residents will have the opportunity to inform the City’s draft budget for 2024 to be tabled November 8. Your feedback is integral to the development of the City’s budget and can be provided through social media, 3-1-1, and contacting your local Councillor. Visit https://engage.ottawa.ca/citybudget-2024 today to complete a survey of your budget prior-

ities, view important dates and deadlines.The survey will close at the end of October. Results will be posted on Engage Ottawa. https://ottawa.ca/en/cityhall/city-news/newsroom/getinvolved-draft-budget-2024

ARAC Presentation

On September 7, the MVCA presented its 2023 Truck Traffic findings to the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. Standing in for Irene Staron, President, (who was out of the

cilities will also be included under the new permit system; however, only registered charities could place boxes at City facilities, and only at specific, pre-approved locations.

The by-law would allow the City to prevent and address common concerns about outdoor clothing donations boxes. These include donated items left outside of boxes, waste and debris left at box locations, incorrect or misleading information on boxes, boxes placed on private property without consent, potential safety risks,

country at the time) was Grace Thrasher, Past President. Attending with Grace was Bruce Fanjoy, Director of Transportation and Community Well-Being. Our thanks to both of you for speaking on the MVCA’s behalf. To view this presentation, go to Agriculture and Rural Affairs Commitee — 2023/09/07 and fast forward approximately 32 minutes.

Century Road Pathway -

theft, vandalism and illegal dumping. It would also help inform future initiatives to divert more textiles from the City’s landfill, by collecting donation data from permit holders annually.

The Committee also received an overview of Ottawa Fire Services’ activities in 2021 and 2022. Despite demand increasing significantly, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers, the service met standards for response times in all categories, in both years. In 2021, the service responded to 23,875

Update

With the assistance of Councillor David Brown, the MVCA and concerned residents made a significant improvement to pedestrian safety on a 175 foot stretch of Century Road where an adjacent multi-use path veered onto the shoulder of the road in order to cross a wetland area. This section of road exposed community members using the path to undue risk. Thanks to the ‘call to action’ by the

incidents, up six per cent from the previous year. In 2022 that response went up again to 28,633 incidents, an increase of 18 per cent from 2021. False fire alarms increased significantly and, in 2022, firefighters responded to 10,478 false alarms, up 17 per cent from the previous year. Medical-related incidents increased more than 30 per cent during the same period.

In 2022 Fire Services launched a new recruitment and hiring strategy aimed at increasing the number of quali-

MVCA and these residents, the city has added hi-visibility flex posts to define and separate the space for users of the path, increasing pedestrian safety.

Uniform SubdivisionUpdate

Following the August 29th public consultation regarding the proposed Uniform development at the south west corner of Rideau Valley Dr. and Bankfield Rd., the MVCA has posted a transcript of Qs

fied individuals from diverse backgrounds. Women made up 17 per cent of successful applicants and new recruits that year. The service responded to several large-scale incidents in 2022, such as the Merivale Road explosion, the illegal occupation of the City’s downtown core and the derecho storm. Beyond emergency response, the service continues to focus on fire prevention, code enforcement and education outreach to reduce the number of fires and raise awareness about fire safety.

& As provided by Councillor Brown’s office. Visit https:// www.manotickvca.org/planning-development.

In the meantime, a group of concerned residents met privately with Councillor Brown to discuss further issues related to this development. Our Councillors Brown and Darouze encourage our members and residents to meet with them one-on-one to discuss your concerns. Thank you one and all for keeping us in the loop!

Local Artists Gear Up for Annual Stonebridge Show & Sale

Come and discover the incredible artistic talent within the Barrhaven community! Join us for Paint the Town, the 13th annual Fall Show and Sale presented by the Artists of Stonebridge (AOS), a Barrhaven-based group of local visual artists. The event will take place on October 21-22 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Cedarhill Golf and Country Club, 56 Cedarhill Drive.

AOS is a not-for-profit group that was started 14 years ago by a group of artists who had a common desire to promote visual arts in the community. The group has now grown to over 50 visual artists and it is very active. You may be familiar with their ongoing exhibits at the Minto Recreation Complex, the RBC Royal Bank at 4120 Strandherd Drive, the TLC Legal Office at 240 Kennevale Drive, the Cedarhill Golf Club, and Councillor David Hill’s office at 100 Malvern Drive.

The annual AOS show is Barrhaven’s largest sale of local visual art. It’s a must-see

event if you are decorating your walls, looking for that special gift, or just want to be inspired by beautiful art. The show features a wide variety of original artwork in many

different styles and sizes, and the artists will be present to meet you and chat!

What’s more, this year’s show will include door prizes and a silent auction of sev-

eral stunning paintings. AOS deeply believes in giving back to the community, and auction proceeds will support two local charities: the Canadian Guide Dogs for the

Blind (CGDB) and the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre.

AOS is also grateful for the support it receives from local businesses in the Bar-

rhaven community. The Fall Show is sponsored by BMO Nesbitt Burns, Royal Lepage Team Realty, Braces Haven, Barrhaven Auto Centre, and TLC Legal.

The Artists of Stonebridge will be hosting an art show at the Cedarhill Golf Club Oct. 21-22.

Thanksgiving season in Canada reminds us of how fortunate we are

It is the Thanksgiving season in Canada, and tonight the sun showed its presence only by a thin line of orange, after all-day of grey clouds scattered over our quiet town. The winds are sleeping, but somewhere someone is burning leaves and our village is “adrift” with the smoke, acrid and haunting. Long

by Larry Ellis

ago an Algonquin brave remembered the campfire smells during the cool moon, along the banks of the Rideau River. It’s like I hear the stealthy rustle of a moccasin in fallen leaves; I am taken back in time, trying to imagine what it may have been like many

years ago right here!

It is time to harvest –after all, the first lovely place in the world was a garden and perhaps when the dew hangs, we feel a closer kinship with the beginning of all things. From ancient Rome came lettuce and turnips, Mexicans gave us maize/corn, beans from Europe, the smart Iroquois gave us the squash, pumpkins and potatoes. The age-old miracle has happened again, and Thanksgiving will be celebrated with thankful Canadian hearts.

The birds, urged by ageold instinct, are collecting, holding meetings, circling and drilling, for the trek

southward. The geese can be seen in flocks in a long vee, orderly and straight and noisy but sometimes quiet and wobbly with occasional stragglers. The wonderful Canada Geese, handsome, aloof, wise, are a noble site, and their honk is the spirit of the wilderness.

My favourite poem“Indian Summer” with the lines - “Along the line of smoky hills the crimson forest stands, and all the day the blue jay calls throughout the Autumn lands. Now by the brook the maple leans with all its glory spread, and all the sumacs on the hills have turned their green to red.”

Wilfred Campbell was the poet who lived nearly a century ago, in a stone house near Merivale Road in Ottawa.

And so we celebrate another Thanksgiving, how fortunate we are; we give thanks. There are millions who would trade places with us, even just to witness our season of fall. Look at the scarlet torches of the maples; listen to the sighing of the bulrushes as the wind whispers and the music of the river as it flows over the dam at Watson’s Mill, my favourite place!

Here is a tip: do not eat turkey without dressing –you might catch cold!

The Kiwanis Club of Manotick was out in full force serving up popcorn and volunteering during A Taste of Manotick Sat., Sept. 23.

Due to staff vacations, the next Manotick Messenger will be published Friday, October 27.

602 Filmworks becomes sponsor of Richmond Legacy Pavilion

The Richmond Legacy Community Association is pleased to announce another partner in its fundraising for the construction of a multi functional community pavilion for both public and private events in the Village of Richmond.

602 Filmworks was started by Robin Lepine (pictured) in 2022 and is extremely proud to join other local businesses in supporting the Richmond Legacy Pavilion.

As an avid photographer for over 20 years and a graduate of videography since 2006, it has become a true passion for me capturing the moments that mean the most to the client. After working in many environments with video, including underwater cinematography, I realized that what I truly want to capture, is people.

People who work hard each day in their jobs. By showcasing your team’s professional progression through video or photos, your employees will feel appreciated when they see images and videos of themselves working safely.

The goal of 602 Filmworks is to provide your company with videography/ photography services that will help with overall team morale and ensure the safety of your project. For more information click on 602filmworks.com.

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

602 Filmworks has become a partner of the Richmond Legacy Pavilion.

Starting at $3,650/mo all inclusive!

Highland Mist Pipe Band opened up the parade.

was a thrill for local children to be in their first parade.

Lawn and Order had the task of showcasing the outhouse used for the great Richmond Potty Caper fundraiser for the Richmond Legacy Pavilion.

Richmond Community Legacy Association

hosting

Oct. 14.

The Grinch made an appearance to promote a tennis dome.

The Tunis Shriners had a big presence in the parade.

The sound of bagpipes filled the air as the Sam Gordon Pipe Band played.

If you have any questions for our area professionals, email us at: garyhcoulombe@gmail.com

PHARMACY

Q: What is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus?

A: Respiratory Syncytial Virus also known as RSV is a respiratory virus. It is a common virus that can affect all ages, and tends to peak in the fall until early spring. RSV usually causes mild illness with cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, fever, and cough that resolves within 1-2 weeks. Symptom management is the main treatment when it comes to mild illness. Severe illness can occur with RSV, but is more of a risk in infants and older adults. Your health care provider such as your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information on the virus, symptom management, and vaccination.

Paul’s Pharmacy 990 River Road, Manotick, ON 613-692-0015

Richmond’s Girl Guides were part of the parade.

Carleton MPP Goldie Ghamari was one of several local politicians in the parade.

Above: Highland Mist marches in front of Danby’s Roadhouse.

Left: Doug and Pam Champagne provided the music on the Richmond Lions float.

PART TIME EMPLOYMENT: Rideau Non Profit

Housing is looking for a qualified individual to assist with the daily operations of an independent living apartment building for seniors. Candidates must have excellent interpersonal, organizational and problem solving skills. Strong computer skills are required. Experience with bookkeeping and Sage/Simply accounting is an asset. Approx. 6 hours per week. Vulnerable Sector Police check required. Please forward resumes to rideauhousing@rogers.com

On Friday September 22 Youth of Manotick Association held a spaghetti dinner at the Legion in Manotick to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Youth who are part of YOMA helped serve dinner and had a great time doing so. Councilors Brown and Darouze joined in the fun.

YOMA would like to thank Angelina’s for sponsoring the event. Thank you also to Lollies & Scoops for donating the cupcake decorations and Farm Boy for donated ingredients. A huge thank you also goes out to all who attended and gave donations. It is your generosity that helps YOMA provide the youth with the support and activities they need.

YOMA has been an important part of the community over the past decade. It began because of the loss of a youth to an overdose in 2012. Parents and community partners attended public meetings then, expressing needs for all youth. It became clear that there was a lack of programs, services and unstructured activities for youth and their families here. Local resident Janice Domaratzki and her family were determined to make sure things changed.

It began with youth handing out flyers to their friends inviting them to activities at the Arena. Now, a decade later, YOMA offers regular programs for Pre-Teens in Grades 4-6 and a Drop-In for youth age 12-17. They have occasional workshops and outings and their staff direct youth to resources when needed. The intent of YOMA is to offer what youth want and need while encouraging them to try new things, meet new people and engage with the community. Janice is still President of the Board and her family is still involved.

Youth who have been a part of YOMA share stories of the connections they have made with people from different schools. Youth who were part of YOMA at the start are still close friends with people they met at YOMA. They talk of how they looked forward to Friday nights and how the support they received through YOMA saw them through some challenging times.

Parents have reached out over the years as well, thankful for the environment YOMA offers; friends, fun, resources and opportunities. The Board will say that it is the youth who make the magic happen. YOMA just creates the space for them to do it.

YOMA is a registered not-for-profit organization. Funding comes from donations, fundraising and occasional grants. It is the generosity of the community and the dedication of the Board and staff that have made YOMA what it is. YOMA is happy to celebrate 10 years in the community and excited about what the future holds for youth in the area.

yoma.ca Follow us on Facebook, Instgram and X

Chili-heads filled the EY Centre for the third annual hot sauce expo

Ice cream was available to cool down those taste buds.

some

From hot sauce, to salsa to even spicy cookies, there were enough samples tor everyone all day.

Angela and Haico of Barrhaven pose for a photo in front of this year’s hot sauce winners. Haico and Angela are the founders of Heating up the Capital as well as owners of Haico Hot Sauce. Skyler Fr A S e r P H oto S

Nakita Gomes of Capital Cookie Company was selling

spicy baked goods.

Michael Corvese is back again with Purple tongue Hot Sauce.

Nathalie Des rosiers was on hand with lady killers hot sauce. each bottle of hot sauce is inspired by a different female serial killer.

Gabriella Salera celebrates her victory of the pepper eating challenge. Salera recently moved to the valley from Melbourne. this is the second pepper eating competition she has won. Salera was the only one who ate the last two peppers, as everyone else had tapped out.

Jordan leal from Hastings of the Hub Sauce Co. started the business in January 2023. their Gold Metal Mustard took first place for medium hot sauce as well as king of Sauces which is the best hot sauce at the expo.

Nico Serum with kar y-Ann Deer of the Capaicn Cartel is back again with the heat. they took first place in the hot category with their Umami Drago sauce.

Five OSU players suit up for Canada’s U17 women’s soccer team

Five girls from the Ottawa South United soccer program joined the Canadian national U17 women’s team for the CONCACAF (The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football) qualifying tournament last month.

Annabelle and Isabelle Chukwu, Bianca Hanisch, Reese Kay and Mya Angus were all part of the Canadian team that dominated its group at the tournament.

The Canadian team began its journey in the Dominican Republic for the 2023 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers on Sat., Aug. 26. The 2023 Women’s Under-17 Championship qualifying competition was played in four different countries with six different groups in the qualification competition. Canada coach Emma Humphries selected a group of 21 players to face group F opponents Dominica, Guyana and Bermuda.

The Canadian team opened up with a 9-0 win

over Bermuda. That was followed by a lopsided 21-0 win over the Dominican Republic. Guyana pulled out of the tournament, citing funding difficulties to travel to the tournament to compete.

“I am really looking forward to getting this group together,” said Emma Humphries, Canada Soccer’s Women’s U-17 National Team Head Coach before the tournament. “This will be our first camp and the start of this next FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup cycle. It is a great opportunity to assess the player pool across the country and also gain valuable experience in a World Cup qualification tournament.”

The six group winners advance to the 2024 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Championship, joining Mexico and the United States, who have been seeded directly into the Championship’s group stage. Mexico is ranked first in CONCACAF with the United States second. Canada is ranked third in CONCACAF for women’s

U17 soccer.

Canada are Olympic champions (Tokyo 2020), two-time bronze medal winners (2012 and 2016), and two-time CONCACAF champions (1998 and 2010). In all, Canada have participated in eight consecutive editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup (1995 to 2023) and four consecutive editions of the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament (2008 to 2021). At Tokyo 2020, Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team became the first Canadian team to win three consecutive medals at the Summer Olympic Games and just the third nation in the world to win three medals in women’s soccer.

Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Youth Teams, meanwhile, have won four CONCACAF youth titles: the 2004 and 2008 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship, the 2010 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship, and the 2014 CONCACAF Girls’ Under-15 Champion-

ship. Canada have qualified for eight editions of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup

(including a silver medal at Canada 2002) and all seven editions of the FIFA U-17

Women’s World Cup (including a fourth-place finish at Uruguay 2018).

Ottawa South United was well-represented as the Canadian women’s U17 team competed in the CONCACAF U17 qualifying tournament.

South Carleton Storms back to win season opener against Titans

The South Carleton Storm senior girls basketball team opened their National Capital Secondary School Athletic Association season with a win, as they beat the visiting St. Mother Teresa Titans 4437 at the South Carleton gym. The Storm took an early lead and were ahead 12-3 at the end of the first quarter.

Trailing 14-6 midway through the second quarter, the Titans went on a run and scored 14 straight points, as Maeve McSwiggan hit a couple of threes and scored 10 points in the frame. South Carleton was held to just one early basket by Corinne Yantzi in the quarter.

In the third quarter, the

Storm turned on the offense.

Samantha Hemeon and Ava Pelton both hit three pointers, while Chelsea Hemon led the Storm fast break offense.

In the fourth, Chelsea Hemon and Jane Case hit three pointers, and the Storm defense tightened up as they won by seven points.

Chelsea Hemon had 12 points for South Carleton with Samantha Hemeon adding 11 and Corinne Yantz scoring eight. Ava Pelton had five points, while Meghan Watt and Jane Case added three each.

Maeve McSwiggan scored 16 points for the Titans with Reegan Woods adding nine, Mary McAnany had six, and Sophie Levesque, Gabu Rivas and Ella Grant had two each.

In other senior girls basketball action Monday, Sept. 25, St. Mark was at home for their season opener and fell 34-32 to West Carleton.

South Carleton’s Chelsea Henon drives to the basket against St. Mother Teresa’s Sophie Levesque.

South Carleton defenders Emily Dempsey (8) and Corinne Yantzi (26) wrestle the ball away from St. Mother Teresa’s Reegan Woods.

carleton continues on page 23

carleton continues from page 22

Irish top Lions

On the football field, the St. Mark Lions hosted the powerful St. Patrick’s Irish in their season opener Fri., Sept. 22. The Irish rolled to a 30-6 win over St. Mark.

Purpose Alovor had a big game for St. Pat’s as he ran for three touchdowns on the day. Bethel Abioye caught a touchdown pass. Elias Ginblat kicked three converts and added a fourth quarter

field goal.

For St. Mark, Mateo Larose scored a touchdown in the second quarter.

Boys Soccer

The South Carleton

Emmanuel Onyemali (94) of the St. Patrick Irish and Palmer Schmidt (27) of the St. Mark Lions chase a loose ball after a fumble during the NCSSAA season opener at St. Mark.

Storm senior boys soccer team opened the season with a pair of wins. On Mon., Sept 25, the Storm coasted to a 6-1 win over visiting Omer-Deslauriers.

Two days later, South Carleton was at home

again and earned a 4-1 win over Pierre-de-Blois.

A header on a corner kick provided the Storm with their third goal in their 4-1 win over Omer-Deslauriers

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winning both games 2-0. The Storm junior boys team also opened up their season as they split a pair of games. The Storm beat Paul Desmarais 4-3 at home before traveling to Merivale and losing 4-1. 5582 Manotick Main Street Manotick, Ontario K4M 1E2 1-613-695-6065

Rorwick has five points to lead Royals to win in

It did not take long for Dylan Rorwick to pick up where he left off last season.

The veteran Royals forward had a five-point night as the Richmond Royals beat the Embrun Panthers 6-4 in their Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League opener Sun., Sept. 24. The Royals played their first two home games at the Goulbourn Rec Centre in Stittsville before the ice was put in at the Richmond Memorial Community Centre.

Rorwick scored from Connor Platt and Tyler Hames just 31 seconds into the first period to give the Royals a 1-0 lead, but the Panthers notched two in the first and then another in the second to take a 3-1 lead.

Danny Marsden scored from Jackson Dallaire to pull the Royals to within a goal, and then in the last minute of the period, Connor Buffam scored from Rorwick and Hames to tie the score at 3-3.

In the third, the Royals took a 4-3 lead as Sam

McElheran scored from Rorwick and Hames, but Tommy Auger scored for Embrun to tie the score at 4-4.

Midway through the third, Rorwick went to work. He scored the gamewinner with 9:07 left to play from McElheran, and then added an unassisted empty netter with 13 seconds left to clinch the win and complete the hat trick.

Richmond goalie Cooper Lennon, facing his former team, picked up his first win as a Royal, making 33 saves.

On Wed., Sept. 27, the Royals improved to 2-0-0 on the young season with a 6-2 win over the Smiths Falls Bears.

Connor Buffam was out of the line-up as he received a two-game suspension for a check to the head against Embrun. Connor Platt was also out, as he was serving a one game suspension.

Remo Marcantonio, Tyler Cutts, Tyler Hames, Sam McElheran, Jackson

Dallaire and Reid Johnston all scored Richmond goals in the win. Drew Russett had three assists, Ryan Sullivan and Tyler Hames had two, with single assists going to Tyler Cutts, Sam McElheran and Leo Kluchert.

Things got a bit truculent with seven-and-a-half minutes left to play as the players paired up to sort things out. Reid Johnston, Mayson Sam and Parker Stretch of the Royals were sent off for roughing. For Smiths Falls, Keenan Woods, Owen Traynor, Aslam Samy and Jake McLean all picked up roughing minors with McLean getting an extra 10 minutes for inciting an opponent.

Sam Nolan made his first start in goal for the Royals and made 39 saves for the win.

Dylan Rorwick had five points in the Richmond Royals season-opening 6-4 win over Embrun in EOJHL Junior B action.