Eganville Leader - August 2023

122nd Year - No 9

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Car hauler hits rock cut

Two crashes on Hwy. 17 within 24 hours

By Leader Staff

Renfrew – Two accidents on Highway 17 almost exactly 24 hours apart saw the trans-Canada closed with detours in place and have resulted in multiple serious injuries and the death of one individual.

Both accidents were reported by police as occurring shortly after 3:20. The collision on Monday afternoon left one individual dead and five seriously injured. According to the police report from the Renfrew Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment, a 44-year-old driver of one of two vehicles involved in the collision in Whitewater Region Township has died from injuries received in the crash.

It is now the policy of the Ontario Provincial Police not to release names of people killed or seriously injured in collisions. Police are continuing their investigation into the fatal colli-

sion between two pick-up trucks which occurred just west of the village.

According to the report, shortly after 3:20 p.m., officers, along with the Renfrew County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Whitewater Region Township Fire Department responded to the crash near the entrance to the Bona Vista Campground.

The driver of one of the vehicles was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two additional passengers from that vehicle were transported to hospital with serious injuries. The driver and passenger of the second vehicle were transported to hospital also with serious injuries.

With the assistance from the OPP’s Technical Collision Investigators (TCI) and Reconstructionist, the investigation remains ongoing.

Renfrew Collision

The collision outside Renfrew on Highway 17 occurred on Sunday

afternoon, with police also reporting responding to the collision shortly after 3:20.

OPP said an 83-year-old person was sent to hospital with serious injuries.

Renfrew OPP are continuing the investigation into the Sunday afternoon crash which occurred at the O’Brien Street intersection. Both Renfrew and Horton Township Fire Departments responded to the collision.

With the assistance from the OPP’s Technical Collision Investigators (TCI) and Reconstructionist, the investigation remains ongoing.

The closure of the highway created traffic chaos on both days as the volume was extremely heavy.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, has dash camera footage or has any information from either accident is encouraged to contact the Renfrew OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Denbigh – A car carrier loaded with brand new 2023 Dodge pick-up trucks and two SUVs left Highway 41 Friday morning and collided with a rock cut, damaging several vehicles on the top of the carrier.

The driver, who was uninjured, was exiting the cab as Denbigh resident Blake Leland was approaching to see if he was injured and required assistance.

Mr. Leland and his wife, Ashley Briscoe, have lived at 22537 Highway 41 in Denbigh the past five years and while they have seen other accidents on the busy highway, this one was up close and personal as the car carrier started to veer off the road as it neared their property, damaging their lawn and laneway, before coming to rest along a rock cut.

“It was kind of on my property actually,” Ms. Briscoe told The Leader Tuesday. “We heard it and then we came running outside.

“There was a lot of, at first we thought it was smoke, but it was actually dust from him kicking up so much dirt,” she added. ‘We didn’t know if the truck was on fire or what, but it ended up settling.”

Mr. Leland ran out of their home to see if the driver was okay, but he had already exited the truck.

“The truck hit our ditch and then took out some of the driveway. It’s all cracked and everything.”

She said the carrier was northbound on Highway 41, headed for the dealership in Renfrew.

Ms. Briscoe said the driver of the rig told them the vehicle had been

in for service recently and he found that it was really pulling towards the right on most of his trip.

“He felt it pulling to the right for quite some time while he was driving,” she shared. “And then he just couldn’t control it because he was pulling so much weight.”

She said the EMS and Denbigh Fire Department were the first responders on scene, and the OPP arrived later.

“The driver was uninjured and actually was sitting on my deck,” she said.

The driver, who had told them he was from Oshawa, had just started with the company and was actually still under probation.

“We’ve lived there coming up to five years and that was the worst one we’ve seen,” Ms. Briscoe remarked, in terms of damage.

She said they live diagonally across from the Bridge Street turn onto Highway 41. Ms. Briscoe said two of the pickup trucks on the top level of the carrier were “goners”.

“A white truck went through the windshield of a red truck because it spilled off the tracks on the hauler.”

She said cranes were dispatched to the scene Saturday morning to lift the top vehicles off the carrier before it could be pulled from the ditch. All in all, it took about five hours before the transport was removed.

Traffic was reduced to one lane during the removal of the carrier.

Ms. Briscoe said their three young children were quite excited to watch the procedure taking place right in front of their eyes.

Photos by Kent Waddington

The bandshell in Centennial Park was dedicated to the late Guy Jamieson Friday night and renamed the Guy Jamieson Ceilidh Amphitheatre. About 400 people attended an evening of excellent music. Here, members of the Renfrew Highland Pipes and Drums honour Mr. Jamieson with some special Sottish tunes. From the left are Clark Smith, Jaeden Lushman, Patty Murray and Joe Graham. See Page A6.

Another reading station vandalized in Pathways Park

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Killaloe – For the second time this summer, damage has been done to one of the reading stations at Killaloe Pathways Park.

Chris Neff, the community development co-ordinator in Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards (KHR) Township, said the damage was discovered Saturday morning as preparations were being made for the Pathways of Resistance Arts Festival being held there that day.

“It’s very unfortunate to see that yet again we have had another incident of vandalism at the park,” he said. “It seems to be the same formula that happened before.

“This time, it was located about midway down the trail,” he added.

“Once again, someone has taken a large rock and thrown it with great force at the plexiglass covering and smashed it.”

While the original vandalism also resulted in wash-outs of two of the trails and also led to the scheduled grand opening of the park being delayed, the latest incident will not deter the opening slated for Saturday, September 9th

“We’re going to try and source it (new plexiglass) a little bit quicker, but it is still quite frustrating to have to see that again,” he remarked.

Mr. Neff said the people preparing for Saturday’s events were at the park on Friday evening until at least 7:30, so the damage occurred after that.

He does not believe the person(s) went to the path that night specifically to do the damage.

“Ive been trying really hard to wrap my head around why,” he said.

“Clearly the person, or persons, have nothing else to do, so they’re using the park, which is clearly an acknowledgement that it’s a useful space and it’s a place where people can go.

“But then, they’re going in and

vandalizing stuff, and in my mind, I can’t really see someone would go to the park with the intention to smash it,” he added. “What I think is likely the case is, this was a group of people and someone thought they were being cool, or going to show off, or just cause mayhem.”

He described the act as a senseless crime and the motive makes no sense to him.

“Why there? I really don’t think it was planned. I think it was circumstance, which almost makes it worse because why would you decide suddenly to smash something?”

The damaged station is one of 18 and the vandals would have walked by seven or eight other stations before they arrived at the one they chose to smash.

He feels it’s the same people involved as the previous incident.

“I’m thinking it was a teenager because it was a big enough rock that the person raised over their head and slammed into the plexiglass, which is quarter-inch thick.”

He said it’s frustrating for the volunteers who are trying to create something beautiful for the community to realize there are some people out there who don’t appreciate their efforts.

“We have the capacity to do these capital projects and we’re working on others,” he noted. “We’re trying to do stuff for the kids, and if we were the type of people to give up, it would be very easy to.

“When you’re building stuff and this is going to probably be another $100 or $150 to fix, but there’s still the time and effort,” he added. “The only thing that keeps me going is there’s a bigger picture and if we help these kids with things to do, then maybe they’ll stop doing it.”

He said kids don’t know how to play anymore, so the vandalism is the highlight of a bigger issue.

“Kids are getting so bored and they

have nothing to do, and we’re trying to make more for them to do. But they’re really kicking themselves in the foot by doing this.”

“I don’t know what the solution is,” he continued. “But we’re going to keep trying to build solutions. But it really makes it hard to keep going forward when you keep getting setbacks like this.”

When asked if he would consider installing surveillance cameras in the park, he replied he was not a real proponent of that action.

“It’s been rolled around and it’s really unfortunate if it has to come to that. It’s supposed to be a park, where people can go and find peace, and a lot of people really can’t find peace when they know they’re being observed on a camera.

“It’s kind of against what the park is for, but if we have to do that, then we’re going to have to set up cameras and these people, who are doing this, there’s going to be serious criminal consequences,” he concluded.

Cathy Lyons, who co-founded Pathways Park with her late husband, Phil Godon, was shocked to hear the news Saturday.

“It’s sad. I really don’t know what more to say about it,” she said. “If you look at it, it looks like whoever did it went right up, within a foot of the plexiglass, and rammed a rock right into it.

“It’s beyond me; I just don’t understand,” she added. “I wish I could understand what this person or persons thought they were getting out of this.”

Ms. Lyons believes the vandals went there with the intent of doing the damage.

“There’s purposefulness to it.”

She is grateful the incident will not deter the official opening, adding every time something like this happens it affects future opportunities at the park.

“It can have a very demoralizing effect on the volunteer base,” she said. “You work so hard and you know every cent and how much work and effort went into it.

“And people gave us the grant money. That makes it doubly heartbreaking,” she added. “I don’t understand vandalism. I don’t know where the anger comes from.”

As she stood looking at the damaged station, she said she could not understand what would cause a person to commit the vandalism.

Ms. Lyons said she has mixed feelings regarding the installation of cameras at the park.

“My sense is though, that until we find out who is doing this and try and understand why they’re doing

it, I’m worried that it’s just going to continue,” she stated. “And how else do you monitor it? Are we going to start sleeping overnight in the park?

“It’s such a valuable asset and we’re just now getting people to understand what it’s all about,” she added. “It’s a shame it happened again.”

Levesque releases debut single and hits the Nashville stage

Pembroke artist has been performing since she was seven

By Debbi Christinck Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Pembroke – Many aspiring musicians dream of taking to the stage in Nashville and a young musician from the Valley is doing just that as she releases her debut single.

On Monday, Sierra Levesque, a Pembroke rock/pop musician, was performing her debut single at a show in Nashville as part of a charity show with several musicians. By Friday, she would be doing her own show in Nashville and that is the same day her local and worldwide fans will be able to stream her new single on every streaming platform.

“It is so amazing,” the 18-yearold said. “This is my first time in Nashville.”

Although long familiar to local audiences, the COVID lockdown and the power of social media was able to already make her music and voice known to a wider audience. She gained a following and made some great contacts in the music world as well. This is in part how the Nashville performances were organized.

“It was all through the help of social media,” she said.

During COVID she was able to build a following pretty much around the world and those contacts were part of what facilitated her doing the Nashville performances and booking them. Her two performances pretty well bookend the week in Nashville.

“I was able to book a show with a charity event (on Monday) and I have a solo show on Friday,” she said. A very talented musician, she is also multi-faceted; she is not only a singer/songwriter, but also a guitarist, pianist, bassist and drummer.

Local audiences are very familiar with her singing and have seen her talent develop through the years as well as her own unique style. She is no stranger to performing in the Ottawa Valley and one of the first times she recalls being on stage was in Eganville.

Since then, she has become a more familiar face locally, especially in Pembroke where she is from. More recently, she has had a lot of performances in Arnprior and Ottawa.

She has had a very good reception to wider audiences and been able to showcase her vocal talents at several sporting events.

“I have sung the anthem for the Senators and Red Blacks games,” she said.

Being an aspiring musician requires a lot of dedication and commitment and Sierra has been performing as much as possible in recent years.

“I do about 60 shows a year,” she said.

Continuing Her Education

Just graduated from high school, she will be continuing her musical career as well as pursuing a degree through an online Bachelor of Art in songwriting program.

“This way I can continue performing,” she explained.

During the coming year she hopes to be performing more and enjoying singing her own single, as well as continuing to develop her song writing abilities.

Her debut single – Get Off My Stage – was written as a “dis” for a rapper who did his own “dis” song to another performer, she explained. Knowing the history behind the song makes it more enjoyable for listeners, she added.

“I started with this song during COVID,” she said. “It is my ‘dis’ song to a rapper called Machine Gun Kelly.” He wrote a dis song and now it is his turn, she joked.

“It is a fun, upbeat, angsty poprock song,” she said. Her rock side is definitely showing through in the promotional material, but she said it isn’t just about hard rock

“There was the Katie Bear Idol and then the show afterwards,” she said. “I was about seven.”

“It is definitely on the rock side, but I don’t want people to think I am a screamer,” she said. “It is catchy and rock and pop.”

The promotional material noted the “hard-rocking song” displays her classic rock influence combined with a strong sense of angsty lyrics and a memorable, catchy melody.

“This song is a call out against any musician who tries to switch into or diss the genre of rock music for attention, specifically Machine Gun Kelly ,” her promotional material cautioned.

Sierra is not only singing in the single, but her talents are heard throughout the recording. Interestingly enough, she fully recorded the song, playing every instrument in her home music studio.

As well, “Get Off My Stage” was mixed, mastered and produced with the help of renowned guitarist, producer and solo recording artist Ron ‘ Bumblefoot’ Thal (ex- Guns N’ Roses, Asia, Sons of Apollo), who also happens to be Sierra’s guitar teacher and music mentor.

Recognized by Guitar.com as being “Gen Z’s most ambitious new guitarist”, Sierra has been described as a combination of Ann and Nancy Wilson, with the powerful voice of Ann and the skilled, catchy guitar playing of Nancy. Her influences for this song also include Avril Lavigne, Scorpions, and The Pretty Reckless

“I am so excited for everyone to hear this song,” she said. “It usually gets a great response when I perform it live, and there are usually lots of laughs when people hear the meaning behind it!”

The single will be available on every streaming platform on Friday, September 1st.

“Look it up on social media under SierraLevesqueMusic,” she said.

Although she is in Nashville this week for her tour, she also has had some other dates, including a show in Syracuse and will be performing more locally in September. On September 14, she will be at Overflow Brewing in Ottawa, on September 23 at the Cupboard in Arnprior and on September 30 at Urban Angus Steak and Wine in Arnprior.

Cathy Lyons, co-founder of Killaloe Pathways Park, stands beside one of the reading stations that was damaged by vandals sometime last Friday evening. The person or persons threw a large boulder into the plexiglass cover, shattering it. It is the second time this year one of the plexiglass covers on a station has been vandalized.

Photo: Chris Neff

Pembroke’s Sierra Levesque releases her debut single this week and was in Nashville for two performances. She will be performing in Arnprior and Ottawa in September as part of her promo mini-tour.

NDP Leader visits riding, hears concerns to take back to QP

By Debbi Christinck

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Scotch Bush – The relatively new leader of the provincial New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Leader of the Official Opposition at Queen’s Park was in the riding on Monday, and on a visit to a farm she heard about sustainable farming concerns and the importance of ensuring local producers don’t get lost in the shuffle.

NDP Leader Marit Stiles was in the riding meeting constituents, getting to know the area and also looking for input on ideas to take back to Queen’s Park and issues to push action on.

“What can we be talking about that is bold?” she asked a group of mostly farm-related individuals during her whistle stop at Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork on Monday morning.

It was one of many stops throughout the day in the riding, which included a walk-through in Renfrew with Mayor Tom Sidney, a visit with Pembroke council members and a tour of that community, a visit to Algonquin College, chatting with representatives of the Local Immigration Partnership Network, touring the Pembroke Airport and a stop at Melissa Bishop Park where she was the guest of Mayor James Brose of North Algona Wilberforce Township.

As part of her stop on the farm, Ms. Stiles enjoyed some local treats, including butter tarts, and was able to take home some Renfrew County produce with some local garlic and zucchini.

For local NDP supporters, having the leader in the riding was a major boost and source of encouragement.

Dorian Pearce of the local riding association said it is the first time there has been a leader in the riding in recent memory with some noting it is likely the first visit since 1999.

“So none since the last century,” he joked. At the Scotchbush farm of Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork, representatives from both the National Farmers Union (NFU) and Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) shared concerns and were part of the advocacy the NDP leader was looking for. She said seeing farm organizations work together on other issues shows how important they can be as advocates. One issue she was referring to was the paving over of the Green Belt which has caused the Conservative Government of Doug Ford a lot of bad press and headaches as various groups band together in opposition.

“The historic way agricultural organizations come together to push back on these issues has been very insightful,” she noted.

“I look at their voting base and I think, ‘who is going to vote for you?’,” she added.

One of her jobs in opposition is holding the government to account for its actions and this has been forefront recently with concerns raised by many people who are worried about food security. She noted the Greenbelt development seems to be a push to get votes by the Ford government, but it may backfire. While the vote rich area with the area code of 905 is part of the lure, many there are opposed to this move. Speaking to residents in Brampton and Mississauga, many of them come from agriculture and farming backgrounds and they see the need for agriculture, she said.

“Those folks are just as concerned about what is happening in the Greenbelt,” she said.

Ms. Stiles said her role as the Leader of the Opposition is not only to challenge the government but also to hear from Ontarians what they are looking for.

“Where do we go and what are the problems we should put first?” she asked. “The OFA and the Farmers Union (NFU) and mayors and reeves do an incredible job to bring this to the front to us.”

During the break in the provincial legislature, she has been crisscrossing the province to hear from Ontarians, she said.

“One of the greatest frustrations I hear is there are a whole lot of people who feel left behind, especially in rural Ontario,” she said. “We have to be listening and connecting.”

With a background in a small farm in Newfoundland, she said she understands rural life. She came to Ontario to study in university, but she grew up on a hobby farm which her parents started in the 1960s.

“I grew up with that, but it is very removed from my reality today,” she admitted.

Ms. Stiles represents the riding of Davenport.

Farming Concerns

As the host of the day, Marshall Buchanan of Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork, explained he had turned a 19th century farm into something that can make money in the modern age and part of his focus was Agrieducation.

“And bring transparency to the food system so people can discover new ideas,” he said.

The local food chain also has some gaps when local agencies can’t buy local products because they are buying in bulk for mass producers, he said.

“The value chain has some gaps,” he said. “It is hard for producers and consumers to connect.”

There is an urban/rural divide, he said. One example was

the protest and trucker convoy.

“This was an example of how politicians fail to connect with the rural area,” he said.

He also pointed out the value of living in a small community like the Ottawa Valley.

“If you drive down Scotchbush Road and have a flat tire, anyone would be there to help you,” he said. There needs to be more knowledge of rural areas and concerns, he stressed.

“We need a lot more compassion

for rural living and the infrastructure we need,” he said. “It is a huge strategic resource for food security and mental health.” Other concerns he raised were the tax break on fuel which he said does not help rural residents enough.

“Support sustainable agriculture and give farmers a break,” he remarked. There needs to be an influx of people in farming, he said. Having new models of sharing the land is one option, he said. Farming is not

a job like others, he stressed.

“You might die trying to save the farm. If you quit farming, it is like you gave up.”

Jen Doelman of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), the provincial director for the zone, who also operates Bonnechere Haven Farm and Farmer’s Daughter Honey near Douglas raised concerns about ensuring farming continues in rural Ontario. She said it can be challenging making a living as a farmer and this is something provincial politicians need to be aware of.

“Biodiversity and income in an area are inverse to each other,” she said.

Urban residents benefit from rural production, but they want it cheap, she explained.

“They want that dinner served to them for under $20 and delivered to their door,” she said. “The problem is that the product is born on family farms and small businesses in rural areas don’t have those luxuries.”

While rural landowners are encouraged to be good stewards of the land, they are not being financially compensated, she said.

Renfrew County has a proud history of innovation, she pointed out mentioning Renfrew County VTAC, community paramedicine and other initiatives. She said the same could happen with agriculture.

“As stakeholders, we can come up with new ideas,” she said.

One issue is how expensive it has become to purchase a farm. She pointed out in 2003 an acre cost $2,100 and the mortgage interest rate was 3.78 percent. In 2023, it is $12,000 an acre and the mortgage interest rate is eight percent. This makes adding to a farm or buying a farm too expensive for most small farmers to consider, she said.

“I have done everything I can to make it happen but I can’t beggar my children,” she said. While there are urban centres who feel farmers are not paying their fair share due to the farm tax which is 25 percent of other property taxes, this is not the case, she stressed.

“You don’t need police for a cornfield,” she said. “You don’t need a teacher for a cornfield.”

These pressures are tremendous on farmers, she said. A saying is that farmers live poor and die rich, she noted.

“It all speaks to family farms disappearing,” she said. “Who is going to make the food?”

Farmland preservation is important and having good farmland paved over makes no sense, she added.

“We value good food and a good environment,” she said.

NDP Leader and Leader of the Official Opposition at Queen’s Park Marit Stiles was able to take home some Renfrew County produce during her visit to the riding on Monday.

NDP Leader Marit Stiles was in Renfrew County on Monday talking to constituents and hearing the issues of the riding. At Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork in Scotch Bush, she received some local produce and talked to representatives from the farming community. From the left are, Willa Harris, who was visiting from the Rouge Park area, Tyreese Stevens, Bonnechere Valley Mayor Jennifer Murphy, Ms. Stiles, Kathleen Lindhorst of Ottawa Valley Fork to Farm, Marshall Buchanan of Ottawa Valley Fork to Farm, Jen Doelman of the OFA, Keana Stone of the OFA, Colton Kyle of the NDP riding association and Dorian Pearce of the NDP riding association.

Liz and Don Graham from Frankford proudly showed off their rare 1956 Cadillac Series 62 convertible that was recently restored. This once abandoned classic was acquired in 1981 from a bankrupt body shop and has been used in many weddings and school graduations. Don says he has even allowed politicians to ride in his pride and joy during parades.

A 1938 DeSoto Business Coupe caught the attention of many old car buffs at the Griffith-Denbigh Lions Club Show & Shine on Saturday

Many beautiful vehicles displayed at Lions Show & Shine

By Kent Waddington

Griffith -- Despite the threat of rain, Saturday’s 14th annual Griffith

Denbigh Lions Club Show & Shine was another tremendous success.

With nearly 100 shiny and not so shiny classics and collectibles on display, the day provided plenty for any car geek or petrol head to drool over and admire.

“There weren’t as many vehicles as we normally get because the weather wasn’t as cooperative as we would have liked,” claimed Jan Roche, treasurer for the event who

sends a great big thank you to everyone who came out to support it.

Staffing the show and shine were volunteers from within the community which included a number of young people who helped guide vehicles into the display compound and control the flow of traffic.

Ms. Roche was very pleased with the turnout which included the mayor of Greater Madawaska Township, members of Greater Madawaska Seniors Housing which hosted a big yard sale, and over 30 vendors selling everything from car parts to

clothing, jams, jellies, baked goods to homemade soap.

“Our annual used book sale also formed part of our successful day,” she said.

This year, the Bancroft Lions club also sent members to assist the Denbigh Griffith club furthering cooperation between the two local Lions clubs,

As usual, the local fire department was there showing off their prized truck and sharing the mysteries of other pieces of firefighting equipment.

and authentic wood veneer dash inserts.

This gorgeous example of a 1987 Oldsmobile 442 W42 was one of only 4,208 produced by General Motors for the ‘87 model year. Owner Norman Lariviere, who purchased the dark blue metallic vehicle new at Butler’s GM in Pembroke, has never driven the car in winter and only recently removed the protective plastic from the carpets. This ‘like new’ collectible has travelled only 147,000 kms since new 36 years ago.

Proceeds from Saturday’s event will go to local charities including Renfrew Hospice. In the past, proceeds have also supported the Ren-

frew Victoria Hospital, and both the Denbigh and Greater Madawaska Township Fire Departments.

“We are so very thankful that peo-

ple

rarely see a DeSoto at a car

and

not

enjoy the show and keep coming back.” Ms. Roche declared. “See you next year on Saturday August 24th, 2024.”

Conrad Peloquin made the trip from Madoc with his highly impressive marimba red metallic 1963 Pontiac Bonneville couple that features rare factory eight-lug two-piece wheels. The car is spotless and also boasts the original ‘roxitone’ trunk paint, rubber mat,

You

show these days,

certainly

one in pristine condition like the above 1938 DeSoto Business Coupe owned by Arthur Penny of Renfrew. Manufactured and marketed by the DeSoto division of Chrysler Corporation from 1928 to 1961, the 1938 model year was the first to feature headlights incorporated into the top of the fenders.

50-Plus, Fit and Feisty organization launched in LV

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Laurentian Valley Twp. – A new program filled with various activities to promote an active lifestyle was officially launched in Laurentian Valley (LV) Township last Wednesday.

The 50+, Fit and Feisty Group officially launched their new program at the Alice and Fraser Recreation Centre where visitors had a chance to learn about and sample some of the many activities the group has planned and scheduled in the coming months. The program is open not only to LV but residents of surrounding townships as well.

Wanda Hilts, chair of the 50-Plus, Fit and Feisty Group board of directors, explained how the concept originated and identified some of the many activities participants can enjoy.

“We’re a new group in Laurentian Valley,” she explained. “We just decided in the new year that we were going to create a 50-plus group and we were looking for something involving active living.”

The idea originated as a result of Ms. Hilts being a member of the Alice Fraser Winter Carnival committee.

“We had several activities that were for 50+ and the turnout, coming out of COVID, was really good.

So I mentioned to recreation and the township that we needed a 50+ group.

“Then an opportunity for grant writing came up, so the township actually approached me about helping them write the grant,” she added.

“And that’s how it started.”

There are nine members on the executive and Navada Sargent, the planning and administrative clerk in

LV, attends all meetings and reports to council. Ms. Hilts said most of the committee has been involved with the community and recreation in the past, both in LV and Pembroke.

“We grew up using this facility and we’re just trying to bring back that joy and that social connection.

And I think coming out of COVID, the timing is perfect because people were so isolated and they’re ready to be together and connect.”

She credited board member Simone Berger for coming up with the 50+, Fit and Feisty moniker.

“We wanted to portray what we are trying to do here,” she said of the name.

The programming is built on three components, the first being physical activity, which involves everything from pickleball, running, walking, kayaking, aqua fit exercises and more.

“We even have chair yoga which is not quite as active,” she said. “We have something for everybody.”

The second component is travel, culture and entertainment which includes a golf nine and dine, cultural dinners that include a three-day trip to Quebec City, and more.

“Our third component is Coffee Connect, a weekly coffee house held here. It’s $25 for members to join the group and members have coffee free all year.”

The coffee house runs from 9 to 10 a.m. and then at 10 there are various

“How To” sessions presented.

Ms. Hilts said they have partnered not only with Alice and Fraser Rec to host the majority of programs at their facility on Henan Road, but also with Shady Nook Rec for pickleball courts.

“Right now, we are using Pleasant View Park. They have a beautiful court and we’re using it right now.

“We’re trying to spread this all through the township, but our base is here,” she added.

Ms. Hilts said the group is busy writing other grant applications to expand its pickleball opportunities.

“Right now, we’re at Pleasantview, but we’re moving over here. We’re painting lines on the rink and we’re going to be using that for this year.

“Then we have a couple of options for churches that have gyms to move to in the winter,” she added.

She noted they are also offering the sport of cornhole, which is growing in popularity in Canada. It is essentially a bean-bag toss game which will start outside for the fall and then move upstairs in the Alice and Fraser rec building for the winter months. Ms. Hilts said a biking club is another part of the group, noting e-bikes are a great idea for those interested in cycling.

Contact With Other Groups

Ms. Hilts has spoken with representatives of other area senior clubs in the area that have been great re-

sources for her and the board.

“I had a huge conversation with Whitewater and we talked to Pembroke, Petawawa. I’ve had great conversations with Killaloe and there’s a group in Eganville.

“What we want to do is tie all the seniors’ groups together and do program sharing,” she continued. “Pembroke has a great strong program that they’re running, but they’re going to be running different programming than we are. We don’t want to duplicate what they’re doing; we just want to enhance and tie things together.”

The programming is scheduled to start in September, however, they launched pickleball two weeks ago and have already seen numbers triple. The membership drive started about a week-and-a-half ago and they had already seen 35 registrants prior to the open house.

“There’s lots of interest,” she remarked.

The launch was obviously a huge success as she told The Leader

Thursday they now have 235 people registered.

The goal is to catch people when they are thinking about retiring.

“They’re physically active, they’re mentally active, and we’re giving them something to do.”

She said she has often heard people say they want to retire but don’t have anyone to do things with, so 50+ Fit and Feisty is the answer to that problem.

“The idea with this was to give them some things to think about that they may want to do and come and join us.”

Most of the programs are occurring throughout the day, but there are some at night as some 50+ are still working.

“We’re getting a lot of response from new people who have moved to the area,” she said.

Unfortunately, at that age, she added, some are beginning to lose their partners or their partners are not able to do the things they’d like to for physical reasons.

“It’s a safe place where people can meet other people who like to do what they want to do in their age group.”

There is at least one activity happening daily from Monday to Friday, with walking and pickleball four days a week, and biking, cornhole and Coffee Connect once a week. There is also an ATV group.

“We have people coming out and offering, whatever their skill set is, to set that up,” she remarked. The group relies heavily on its volunteers, with Ms. Hilts adding LV council and staff have been very supportive of the program.

“They give us resources as well and they have given us a monetary donation. As well as minor sports, they gave us $5,000 to start up.” Their message is to inspire a zest for life and she believes with people coming out of COVID looking for something to do, they want to pick up on that opportunity.

Mayor Is Impressed Mayor Steve Bennet said he is very impressed with what the group has accomplished in such a short time.

“They came to council about two months ago and we gave them our blessing. We thought it was a great idea to enhance active living in Laurentian Valley,” he said.

“And what we see here today is phenomenal, beyond what I thought.” He said when he drove into the complex, he thought there was more than one function going on because there were so many vehicles in the parking area.

“I think it’s a great idea,” he remarked.

“The group has done a great job. They spent a lot of time and did a lot of research to see what was needed by seniors, what they wanted to be involved in, and what was lacking in Laurentian Valley. I just think it’s wonderful.”

Mayor Bennet said Ms. Sargent and the staff will be looking for other grant opportunities that may assist the group.

“I think it’s going to go very well,” he remarked.

He praised the volunteers in the township for always stepping up to take on projects like this.

“Our township thrives on volunteers and the more time they spend in our municipality, the more it enhances our municipality.”

Left: Larry Hilts was one of the volunteers helping with the barbecue. Here, he serves a cob of corn to one of the visitors. Right: Pauline Barker, left, convenor of the cornhole activity, gets ready to throw as Vera Lipke waits her turn.

Instead of a ribbon-cutting, the 50-, Fit and Feisty Group launched their new program on the pickleball court. From the left are Bruce Mitton, board member, Navada Sargent, LV Township representative, board members Randy Kitchen, Simone Burger, Cindy Schulz, Mayor Steve Bennet, Shady Nook Recreation chair Jason Demont, and Reeve Keith Watt.

Paul Mayfield of Pembroke, the instructor for the chair yoga, was giving introductions to his activity at the open house.

The Alice and Fraser Minor Sports Association presented $5,000 to the 50+, Fit and Feisty Group at the launch of the program. From the left are vice-chair Sherry Crone, secretary Kathy Frederick, Bruce Lloyd, chair of AF Minor Sports, treasurer Bev Vaudry and chair, and Wanda Hilts.

The Guy Jamieson Ceilidh Amphitheatre is dedicated at a night of music

By Gerald Tracey News Editor

Eganville – Guy Jamieson would have been pleased with the enter tainment and program in Centennial Park Friday night when the band shell was dedicated in his memory and is now known as the Guy Jamie son Ceilidh Amphitheatre.

The 78-year-old Mr. Jamieson passed away one year ago to the day after a brief illness and the bandshell was named to honour the memory of a person who gave much to his community and the wider Renfrew County area in the form of music and musical events for more than half a century.

A native of Horton, Mr. Jamieson moved to Eganville when he accept ed a teaching position at Eganville District Public School. He married Kathy Swant and they raised two children: Rob and Megan (Clark). Although he finished his teaching career in Cobden, he lived most of his adult life in Eganville and gave back to his adopted community in many ways, through music and organizing such events as the annual stepdancing and fiddling competition that had a run here of eight years, Renfrew County Western Night, several annual Oktoberfest celebrations and the Robbie Burns celebrations for many years. He was also a civic-minded individual and for many years was a member of village council. Amid all of his activities, he also founded time to enjoy sports – Strickland’s softball team, Gentleman’s Hockey, which he organized, and snowmobiling and being a member and past president of the Eganville Sno-Drifters’ Club. It was a fitting tribute to Mr. Jamieson Friday night, starting with four members of the Renfrew Highland Pipe and Drums band walking into the park and filling the quiet night air with the skirl of the bagpipes. The four pipers: Clark Smith, Patty Murray, Jaeden Lushman and Joe Graham played three special Scottish tunes, including Mairi’s Wedding before his son, Rob started the program which consisted of a mix of brief messages from Mayor Jennifer Murphy, Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon, former Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP

The Jamieson family in the Guy Jamieson Ceilidh Amphitheatre. From the left: Scott, Megan and Cameron Clark, Rory Jamieson, Kathy Jamieson, Rob Jamieson, Danica Clark and Sadie Jamieson.

Sean Conway, Sean’s cousin and current MPP John Yakabuski and yours truly.

Mayor Murphy said it was her honour to represent council and the township to officially name the bandshell the Guy Jamieson Ceilidh Amphitheatre. She described him as one of the township’s most beloved citizens.

“This amphitheatre represents the generosity of his time, spirit and talents that were shared to benefit our community and every person who has enjoyed being entertained by those upon this stage,” she said. “I want to thank Guy and his family who gave up time with each other to ensure the stage that was built by the community was shared with local artists and patrons who call Bonnechere Valley home as well as those from far and wide who wish to visit our piece of paradise.”

Centennial Park was built in 1990-1991 to mark the 100th year of incorporation of the Village of Eganville. The official opening was held during week-long celebrations in August 1991. Mr. Jamieson was a member of the Centennial Committee and headed up the musical celebrations for the six-day festival that brought an estimated 40,000 people to Eganville. He was the main organizer of

Renfrew County Night during the celebrations which saw more than 1,000 people enjoy a night featuring the best talent the county had to offer back then.

Coincidentally, M.J. McCann was reeve in 1891 and became known as the “father of incorporation”. One hundred years later, the McCann family, through the efforts of Terry McCann of Pembroke, donated the 13 acre parcel of land which comprises the park. Among the entertainers Friday night were Cormac native and fiddler Dennis Harrington of Renfrew; Marie Brydges, piano, Renfrew; Blaine McEwen, bass guitar, Pembroke; Kenny Conroy, drums, Fitzroy Harbour; Bob Schwartz, lead guitar, Ottawa; Darrell Mooney, acoustic guitar, Renfrew, and Leo Ready, fiddle, Pembroke. Some of the musicians played with Mr.

Jamieson either with Upper Country The Countrymen.

“Guy meant a lot to me in music and I looked up to that man,” Mr. Harrington said. “I know that when he was not well, Rob and I communicated a number of times throughout that period and he asked me if I would coordinate the music for his memorial. And I absolutely said I would. But then I came down with COVID and I couldn’t be there, so being here tonight means so much

As a tribute, Mr. Harrington wrote a special fiddle tune, with Scottish flavour, named A Scottish Guy which he played for the crowd. Mr. Ready also played a fiddle number, Maple Sugar , as a tribute to his deceased friend. Also in attendance were Kent Smith and Al Briscoe who played a lot of music with Mr. Jamieson.

Mr. Yakabuski sang one of the old Mac Beattie favourites, My Renfrew County Home, as a tribute to Mr. Jamieson who, he said, was absolutely committed to keeping the memory of Mac Beattie alive.

There were several musical presentations and stepdancing numbers by the Leahy/Donohue families that left the crowd of about 400 thirsting for more, but alas, all things must come to an end and the program finished at 9 p.m.

Rob Jamieson said some folks would look out Friday night and see a great crowd, but his father would look out and see a community.

“For all of you who knew him, he would be embarrassed here tonight if he was here with us,” he said.

“And this is about the only way we could do this. He simply thought, just as I look out at this great community, everybody here contributes to the community to make it a better place. He was just one of the team, making the community a better place and enjoying it.

“The other thing he enjoyed tremendously was just seeing the next generation coming on and to ensure there was a stage provided for that.”

Aiden Donohue of Douglas played a special number on one of Mr. Jamieson’s old guitars he had given him and Rob’s son, Rory, performed a solo number, The Little Shack Up the Pontiac. The all-time favourite, The Lake Dore Waltz, was sung by Mariah Leahy with accompaniment from Frank Leahy on drums, son Xavier on acoustic

guitar and Frank’s sister, Siobheann Donohue on keyboard; Aliyah Leahy on piano and Savannah Leahy. Stepdancers were Mariah Leahy, Savannah Leahy, Julayna Leahy, Hannah Donohue and Aliyah Leahy.

Mariah Leahy, Savannah Leahy, Julayna Leahy, Hannah Donohue and Aliyah Leahy step up a storm during Friday night’s tribute to the late Guy Jamieson. In the back on the drums is Frank Leahy who is joined by son, Xavier on fiddle and Frank’s sister, Siobheann Donohue on keyboard.

Guy’s brother, Art, and wife, Dorothy enjoy a laugh during Friday night’s tribute which included a lot of music, sharing of memories and good humour.

Pipers Clark Smith, Jaeden Lushman, Patty Murray and Joe Graham played several tunes as tribute to their late friend. Guy Jamieson was a proud Scot, but appreciated all cultures.

Musicians Darrell Mooney, Dennis Harrington, Kenny Conroy, Blaine McEwen and Marie Brydges.

Release outlines operations before fatal helicopter crash

Ottawa – The Department of National Defence Airworthiness Investigate Authority (DNDAIA) has released a preliminary report from its investigation into the fatal crash of a CH-147F Chinook helicopter on June 20 at Garrison Petawawa that claimed the lives of two members of the four-member crew.

The pilots, Capt. David Domagala and Capt. Marc Larouche, died during the nighttime training exercise when the chopper crashed into the Ottawa River. Two other members of the crew escaped from the wreckage and were taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The preliminary report did not indicate the cause of the incident but provided a summary of factual information known at this time, according to a DND statement.

Full details surrounding the incident are still under investigation.

At the time of the crash, two pilots and two flight engineers from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squad -

ron were aboard the aircraft, CH147310, conducting a scheduled two-hour training syllabus mission as part of the Tactical First Officer Course. The crew, callsign Hammer 31, had taken off from Area 17 at Garrison Petawawa, shortly after midnight and were flying to a confined area known as T40, located four kilometres (2.5 miles) northnortheast of the base.

The helicopter turned left shortly after departure and cleared a tree line on the west shore of the Ottawa River, then descended to tactical altitudes as per the mission profile, the report found.

“While descending and still established in the left turn, the helicopter impacted the water with high energy at 00:10 (12:10 a.m.) local time,” the report said. The helicopter was destroyed, but the two flight engineers successfully exited the aircraft and had only minor injuries.

Pilot Domagala of Woodstock, served in the Canadian Army Reserve before becoming a pilot. He was posted to 450 Squadron in 2019. Pilot Larouche of Amos, Que., acquired a private pilot’s license before joining the RCAF. He received his wings in 1993 and flew the CH-135 Twin Huey, CH-146 Griffon, and CH-147F Chinook, serving on domestic and international operations.

The CH-147F and its flight recorders were recovered from the Ottawa River following a challenging operation that involved contracted companies with cranes and other equipment to lift the helicopter from the water, while also containing possible spilled fluids such as fuel and lubricants.

Investigators said they are focusing on human, technical and environmental factors related to the incident. DND did not provide a timeline for completion of the investigation and its final report.

Highway 17 between Bruce Street and Gillan Road at Renfrew was closed for several hours Sunday afternoon and night following a head-on collision at the O’Bren Road intersection in which an elderly man was seriously injured.

Photo: Mike Yeas

Summer politics

The summer political barbecue season was a way of life in the past, but it had been some time since we have had party leaders or leadership candidates in the riding.

This summer we had both and the breezy summer days were a perfect opportunity for some political discussions and perhaps to garner some enthusiasm in the NDP and Liberal ranks, for after decades of the Conservatives having a hold on the riding which shows no signs of waning. Those who have been around for awhile remember when the riding was staunchly Liberal and it was for a long time. Although there was a redrawing of boundary lines during the time, the Liberal era of Sean Conway and Len Hopkins was a time when it was tough to believe the riding would be anything but Liberal. Then came a change.

When Cheryl Gallant – then with the Reform Party – swept to victory over Liberal Hec Clouthier, it was a true shock election and arguably no one was as surprised as Mrs. Gallant. Since then, she has only solidified her base and has the distinction of being one the longest serving MPs on the Hill. She has shown no indication of stepping down and handedly turfed a candidate a few years ago who challenged her nomination at the local level. Love her or hate her, she seems to be the representative of choice in this riding and no one has come close to unseating her. It would not be a long-shot to say it seems impossible for anyone to do so.

On the provincial side, when John Yakabuski won that first election after the retirement of Sean Conway it was a tight race. A few votes and it could have gone the other way but since then, Mr. Yakabuski has only increased his margin on his competitors and the riding is also his for as long as he chooses to run. Hard-working and popular, he is a true people’s politician and has worked hard for his constituents. The only complaint is perhaps he is not appreciated by his Queen’s Park colleagues enough or by Premier Doug Ford. But he is certainly held in high regard in the Valley. So in a riding which is a real Conservative stronghold, leadership hopefuls with the provincial Liberals were in town this summer and the new leader of the Official Opposition, NDP Leader Marit Stiles, was in the area this week. Their visits no doubt inspired the local riding association members and hopefully the publicity around the visits also encourages others with Liberal or NDP sympathies to join the riding association or at least consider being involved in future campaigns. With a federal election possible next year, it will be interesting to see what will happen on the national level. As far as Mrs. Gallant is concerned, there is little doubt as to what will happen locally. A provincial election is a bit further off, 2026, but once again, it will be interesting to see if voters will give Premier Ford a third mandate. For her part, Ms. Stiles is very engaging and adept at political discourse, so she will no doubt be a strong opposition. Whoever becomes the leader of the Liberals will no doubt work hard to rebuild the party and bring back the McGuinty/Wynne days of political domination.

Political discourse is important and having a diversity of opinion is important. Having the various voices in Canada espousing the views of the NDP, Liberals, Greens, Conservatives and other parties is vital to a vibrant democracy. We need challenging ideas and discourse on the right path to forge for this country, this province and this riding. Seeing the interest in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke displayed by the Liberals and the NDP is a good thing. They have many supporters in the area and many good ideas to share with all Ontarians to make us think, reflect and maybe even change our vote.

The good ‘ol summer tradition of political chats and nonelection-season campaigning is good to see. It is about keeping our democracy healthy and political engagement active. Thanks for taking the time to visit our corner of paradise in the Ottawa Valley.

F or many country kids, moving to the city for the first time for school or work is both exciting and traumatizing. For those going into a university residence or perhaps sharing a house with friends from home, the transition may be somewhat easier but for many of my generation, getting off a Voyageur Colonial bus in the unfamiliar chaos of a big city felt like entering an unfamiliar universe. We came from towns with only a three-way stop or one traffic light to streets crowded with cars, busses and pedestrians. We got lost looking for the address of a rooming house scribbled on a scrap of paper or searching for signs in windows advertising Room for Rent

In retrospect, signs in windows dictated much of my life’s path in those days. Help Wanted. Room for Rent Fortunately, choices were plentiful. If the first room was a dump paid by the week, you moved as soon as you found something better. Casual jobs -- as office temps, waitressing, cleaning, babysitting… -- were plentiful. You made friends with other country kids who were equally shell-shocked by their entry into adulthood.

Of course, the sensible ones or those guided by older siblings or relations wrote the civil service exams and took their place in the cubicles of downtown office towers and started getting paycheques with deductions for the retirement pensions they are

now happily collecting. I was neither sensible nor guided by anyone and two years of Opeongo typing class had not equipped me for anything more than the lowest of clerical filing jobs. It seemed my future lay in hospitality, as we call it now and which was then known as ‘waiting on tables’. Compared with the wretched factory job I’d previously had in Renfrew, waitressing was a wonderful starter career.

For an aspiring writer the sheer variety of human beings in a big city was an eye-opening experience and, having read far too much Hemingway in Paris, I gravitated to the busy downtown establishments along Bank and Rideau Streets. Many of

the restaurants and bars were owned by Greek, Lebanese and Italian immigrants who expected hard work but also provided somewhat of a family setting for their young clueless employees. “Eat soup” they ordered and “wash your apron” and “save your tips”. The cooks, for reasons not always benign, let us eat the steaks they had overcooked, invited us out for drinks after work and, just for fun, locked us up in the basement walk-in cooler. It didn’t take long to realize that getting more higher education might be a good thing.

I remember those days fondly every September, as another contingent of Ottawa Valley high school graduates strike off toward the future. These kids have been to the city, to concerts, hockey games and malls. Educated by social media, television and movies, they have levels of sophistication and worldly knowledge far beyond what we possessed. But moving away from home for the first time is still filled with nervous anxiety.

There will be bouts of feeling homesick, wishing yourself back among green fields and cows while waiting for the traffic light to change on a noisy street. For almost all of you, that homesick feeling will pass and, if after a few months it doesn’t, we have ‘Help Wanted’ signs in store windows here also! (Gerald Tracey and many other locals can tell you that you don’t have to leave home to build a good future.)

Since Pierre Trudeau has locked the gate to the Prime Minister’s Office only his children and grandchildren have been provided with keys. The only interesting news coming out of that office is that Justin has to boil his own coffee every morning, teaching him how poor people have to live. People without keys can no longer report what is happening in the Unholy House on the Hill. They would only be reporting how all the Opposition Parties can find some reason to oppose each other.

I take you, now, dear readers to visit some States that were United, until about seven years ago when they elected a bird with only one wing.

When his nose points south his body takes him north. That is why the poor old bird believes that the truth is a lie, and his lies are always truthful? He uses the truth only when a lie won’t suit.

I used a lie only when I sinned, and I found that they worked reasonably well, for the short time. Of course I don’t sin so it isn’t a true test of the experiment. Also it depends on how straight we can hold our face. Today in the U.S.A., they lie, and then they pray. The greatest problem with their former president is he can’t count, especially when it comes to votes. The plans for the 2024 election are really puzzling.

Mike Pence, the former vice president must be really running for the vice president position rather than the presidency if you listen to his words. Recently he stated he would become vice president for any candidate, except Trump.

Dear faithful readers those are the strangest words I have ever heard spoken on CNN. They could also be taken as words of a true peace keeper, willing to work together.

When Paddy McHugh baptized the Eganville Leader he created it so that it was to be read by reasonable readers. Two generations of Tracey

families have followed the same path, encouraging the Old Man to do likewise.

Suddenly the TV is trying to drown out the sound of my pen on paper. It has something to do with a former president being taken to a place that could be his permanent home away from home when all his sins have been revealed, especially the ones that cost precious lives, and almost succeeded in taking the life of his vice president.

A more fitting title for this article would be ‘Dealing with Desperate Donald, One Crime at a Time’. The latest news is that he is not trying to win the 2024 election, he is just trying to steal it, using every unlawful means while in a Georgia prison.

In 2020 he lost his shirt and reputation. This time it could be his pants and underwear. When I chose puzzling politics I had no idea how weird they could become considering what happened in 2016. That victory gave him the power to rule for one full year, and not for one day longer. I called it a victory but it was a bare faced damaging lie about Hillary’s so called private email server and comprised classified secrets that never existed, but it let him steal victory from Hillary Clinton. They are the same lies and misinformation he is now attempting to create against President Biden’s son. What a hellish trademark to leave his family: Master of dangerous damaging lies.

My Canada

Dear Editor: Several contributors to this paper like to reminisce about the good old days. I also yearn for the good old days. However, a wise man (my grandfather) told me once that the only constant in life is change. Of course, at the time I had no idea of what he was talking about but now it is becoming clear. Change happens constantly and for many reasons but change is not always for the better. When I was a kid, I grew up watching TV shows like Bonanza and Gun Smoke and at night I would watch the CBC news with my grandfather. Today if you can find Bonanza on TV it comes with a warning about how insensitive the show may be to the current generation. Most ironically today it should be the CBC news that comes with a warning! My Canada has certainly changed. The world changes everyday but that does not mean you are powerless to have some influence on the direction of that change. Many of the issues that society is dealing with today came about as the result of people with certain beliefs who began to earnestly push those beliefs forward until they found a receptive audience. You have as much power as anyone else on this earth. You have a voice and that is your first option to express your opinions or beliefs and if those beliefs run counter to others so be it. Let’s have a discussion. Through discussion we can achieve change that is acceptable to the majority. However, remember politicians are just big weather vanes that always point in the direction of the strongest wind. So, you will need to push hard to get their attention. It is not easy to fight change. Many of the issues today are supported by Unions and other organizations that are well funded and well connected to those in power. It may seem overwhelming to individuals to fight some of the changes but if you do not stand up for something you stand for nothing.

There is a quote from the 2010 Robin Hood movie starring Russel Crowe that goes like this: “Rise and rise again until lambs become lions”. It was meant to encourage the common people of England to demand a better form of democracy from their leaders. Currently we are still living in a democracy but if more of us do not find our voices it will become difficult to maintain that democracy. So do not be afraid to peacefully express your opinions. You have as much right to your views as anyone else. Remember all of those who died so you can have the right to speak freely. Do not let it slip away by remaining silent.

Terry Hoffman, Pembroke

Dear Editor: I just want to let you know that since the article in the Leader on CHCR’s plight for volunteers was published, we have been approached by CTV (they did an interview and aired it), by CBC Ottawa’s All in a Day,

of Canada.

100 Years Ago - August 31, 1923

District News

A change is taking place in the direction of the Pembroke General Hospital.

Rev. Sister Louis Eugene, who has been Superior the last two years, is returning to the Mother House of the Grey Nuns’ community in Ottawa. Sister Louis Eugene has in all spent about 14 years on the hospital staff, having been away for a few years before being appointed Superior two years ago, and many friends will regret her departure. It is expected her successor, whose name has not yet been officially announced, will arrive in Pembroke in the next few days.

* * * * * *

Pembroke Woman Left An Estate of Over Half Million

By the will of the late Robert Bruce Gray, well-known druggist of Pembroke, whose death took place on Thursday, July 26th, and which has just been entered for probate, property valued at $615,613.65 is disposed of, the executors of the state being Dr. Willian Leslie Gray, brother, and The Royal Trust Company. The personal estate is valued at $691,135.65, and the real estate comprising Lot No. 14, Pembroke Street, and Lot No. 10, Renfrew Street, both in Block J of the Moffat section of the town of Pembroke is valued at $14,500.

Under the will, which was executed August 4th, 1915, the following requests and legacies are provided for: To Miss Susan Gray, Pembroke, sister, $50 a month during her lifetime; Miss Naomi Gray, Renfrew, niece, $5 a month during her lifetime; Dr. W.L. Gray, Pembroke, brother, a legacy of $500; Mr. George A. Gray of Beauripaire, Que., brother, a legacy of $100, and the balance of the estate, valued at $609,864.65, to Miss Annie Robina Gray, Pembroke, daughter. Miss R.A. Gray is at the present time supervisor of the Y.W.C.A. at Ottawa.

* * * * * *

Barry’s Bay August 25 – About 80 baseball fans attended the Combermere picnic on the 23rd to see Barry’s Bay and Maynooth battle for the championship of the Hemlock League. The contest was a hard and fast one, and right to the finish the result was in doubt. The locals, however, pulled out a deserving victory – the score being 8 to 5. The Bay team was all home product. Dooner was in the pitcher’s box for six innings and did very effective work. He was relieved for the remaining three innings by Donald Arcane who stood up well to his task. List of players: Barry’s Bay – Dooner and Arcane, pitchers; Biernackie, catcher; Basil Billings, 1b; Thos. Murray, 2b; H.J. Chapeskie, ss; Peter Etmanskie, 3b;

D. Murray, rf; Jos. Skebo, cf; Jos. Drohan. lf.

Maynooth – Kuno, Stewart, McAlpine, Smith, Wilson, Prentice, Harryet, Green, and Douglas.

* * * * * *

Native of Douglas Drowned In West

Word has been received that Mr. John James Ross, eldest son of the late Robert Ross and Mrs. Ross of Douglas, and a brother of Mr. F.C. Ross, of the Department of Finance, and Chief Ross, of the Police Department, Ottawa, was accidentally drowned on Saturday last in the Red Deer River district, near Scollard, Alberta. Mr. Ross, who was born in Douglas, was 60 years of age, and was engaged in farming and ranching in the West for the past 31 years. He leaves a widow, formerly Miss Jean Miller of Goshen, Renfrew County, and a family of eight.

* * * * * * Local News

A very severe storm visited this district on Tuesday evening, from eight to nine o’clock. The disturbed elements in their anger flashed the most vivid lightning, the thunder crashed and there were accompaniments of wind and rain. The storm proved destructive near Osceola where the farm buildings of Mr. M. Sheedy were struck by lightning and consumed. The reflected fire was plainly visible here.

75 Years Ago - August 27, 1948

* * * * * *

held at Ottawa.

Contract for Eganville-Pembroke Road

Contract for the reconditioning of the road from Eganville to Pembroke has been awarded to McFarlane Construction Co. of Picton.

The contract calls for the removal of the current paved section of the road. Minor changes in grading and curves, and when this stage has been completed, a gravel road will exist between Pembroke and Eganville on roughly the same ground as the present road.

* * * * *

*

The finding of Champlain’s astrolabe in the vicinity of Cobden, in 1867, will be marked at Cobden by the placing of a monument and tablet at a date to be announced later. This event was declared one of national importance, at the recent annual meeting of the Historic Sites and Monument Board of Canada,

* * * * * * Report of Uranium Find In Bancroft District Confirmed Report of a uranium find near Bancroft was confirmed Friday when Dr. Hugh Spence, senior geologist for the Department of Mines, identified crystals from the area as uksenite, a uraninite mineral. The sample crystals, brought to Ottawa by J.M. Pitt, were found to contain 8.81 percent uranium oxide. They were identified immediately by Dr. Spence who refused to comment on the economical possibilities of the find. President of the concern owning the property, Mr. Pitt said that permission has been obtained from the Atomic Energy Control Board to remove tonnage quantities of the ore for mill run concentration and assay. Results of these tests will be submitted to the Board.

The two young men who acted on the fantastic idea that shooting a steer and disposing of the meat portions to a Renfrew buyer would mayhap escape the clutches of the law, were given a rude awakening. They were brought before a magistrate and given a sentence of a year and a half in a reformatory. The steer was owned by an Admaston farmer.

* * * * * * Local News Reports from our immediate countryside indicate that hay, grain and root crops indicate abundant yield, with full barns and granaries. Extraordinary growth in some instances can be recorded. Mr. Archie Jamieson of Mud Lake hoed out of his sand-loam garden the other morning an Irish Cobbler potato, white skin and well formed, which weighed two and three-quarter pounds.

25 Years Ago - August 25, 1998

OMB Ruling Allows Lake Clear Couple To Build On Island Foymount – The Turner’s Island dispute on Lake Clear has finally been settled.

On August 25 th, after two days of testimony, cross-examinations, and re-examinations, and final arguments, Ontario Municipal Board chairperson Norman Jackson decided Mary Ferguson and Tom Dampsy would be allowed to build on their island.

Mr. Jackson heard arguments from three sides in the dispute, why Mr. Dampsy and Ms. Ferguson should or should not be allowed to build on Turner’s Island.

Alan Patton, Mr. Dampsy and Ms. Ferguson’s lawyer, argued many points why his clients should be allowed to build on the island. Mr. Patton said the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), and the Ministry of the Environment and Energy (MOEE) do not oppose his clients’ proposed development. He also said the proposed development would be more environmentally friendly because of the strict guidelines his clients have followed compared to the developments already established on the lake.

* * * * * * Action Centre Programs Will Continue In Former Convent Eganville – Two months after being evicted from a building considered unsafe by village council, the Action Centre is back in one of the remaining heritage buildings in

Eganville.

The non-profit community organization is moving into the former Grey Sisters Convent, most recently known as Avoca House.

“Speaking on behalf of the group, we’re very excited that we were able to turn this around so quickly,” said Maggie Tyerman, an Action Centre board member. “It’s a really important aspect of the community. And we hope that others who don’t feel that way would give us some time – come through the doors and see what’s being done.”

The Action Centre was only founded in May 1997. But one of the first directives undertaken by the new council in December 1997 was to close the building because of a perceived debt situation and the notion that it was considered unsafe.

* * * * * * Public Should Not Fear Shipment of Plutonium

Chalk River – If plutonium is shipped through the Ottawa Valley, residents have nothing to fear, according to a spokesman for the Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL).

One hundred and fifty grams of plutonium from the United States and Russia will be shipped into Canada from Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. It will be tested at Chalk River to see if Canadian reactors can destroy the plutonium by using it as fuel.

Larry Shewchuk, manger of corporate media relations at AECL, said the amount of weapons grade pluto-

nium being tested is about the size of two AA batteries. The plutonium is from former nuclear weapons. He also said there is no risk to public safety.

located along County Road 30 was destroyed by fire in the fall of 1980, only the cross from the church’s steeple and the bell, in four pieces, were salvaged from the debris. While the old cross was mounted to the front of the new church, the old bell sat in a gravel pit owned by Ralph Mundt and came close to finding a new home in the United States. In fact, a group of hunters from the States, who were staying at a lodge on Golden Lake, had the bell loaded onto their

The hunters, who had been coming to the area for several years, had noticed the bell in pieces during their visits and didn’t think they were stealing it. The near loss of the old bell was the beginning of a plan to display it at the new church. As of last Tuesday, the old bell is back at St. John’s hanging from a steel frame that was welded together, and installed on a cement pad by volunteers.

50 Years Ago - August 29, 1973

Kitts’ Red And White Sold Kitts’ Red and White Foodmarket in Barry’s Bay has been sold.

The store has been operated by the Kitts’ family for the past 19 years. The late Charles Kitts operated it up until the time of his death two years ago. His wife, Joan, has managed it since then.

The new owner is Donald McCullough, 33, of Oshawa. He and his wife, Joyce, and their two children, Mark, 10, and Erin, 7, have taken up residence in Barry’s Bay. Mr. McCullough took possession of the store Monday. He is not new to the food retail business. He has worked for the past 11 years with large chain food stores.

Mr. McCullough said the store would remain in the Red and White chain.

* * * * * *

Struck By Motorcycle, Child Dies

A seven-year-old R.R. 1, Wilno child was killed Friday afternoon when the wagon he was riding veered into the path of a motorcycle on Highway 515 at the Jewellville Bridge in Raglan Township.

OPP at Killaloe said that Michael Francis Paetzold, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Paetzold, pushed his wagon off the north shoulder onto the highway and was struck by a motorcycle driven by a 15-year-old boy from Redford, Mich., travelling in the westbound lane. The child died instantly.

The motorcycle went out of control after the collision, skidding in the

west lane for a distance and struck a nine-year-old girl riding a bicycle on the north shoulder. Michelle Michaelis of R.R.1, Barry’s Bay, the bicycle rider, received fractures and a concussion. The motorcycle driver received cuts and bruises.

* * * * * *

New Meat Market Opening

A new meat market is opening in Eganville Thursday.

Owned by Don Kelly, 43, a former R.R.3, Eganville farmer, the new store is located in the former Western Tire building on John Street.

Mr. Kelly’s 20-year-old son, Bob, will be working with him. He has his butcher’s papers. Also on parttime staff until the new store gets organized will be Harold Hingley, also a butcher.

Mr. Kelly said he will deal in fresh meat, eggs, butter, milk, cheese and fish. He added that all the meat, except the cold cuts, will be from Hein’s slaughterhouse at R.R.2, Eganville. It is all government inspected.

Other services available and the new market will include custom cutting and wrapping and grinding. Mr. Kelly will also cut and wrap hinds and quarters ready for the freezer.

Mrs. Kelly will work as a clerk in the store.

* * * * * *

Four Men Nabbed In Killaloe Used Railway Line To Make

Motion Picture

Four men between the ages of 25 and 32 won’t be completing their motion picture that they set out to

make in the area. At least not the kind they wanted. The four – three from Toronto and one from the Hamilton area – decided to make use of the C.N.R. railway line in the Whitney area during the strike. They built themselves a homemade “jigger”, a motorized railway car, and they toured around the Whitney area making a motion picture. Their destination was Eganville. However, someone alerted police of their doings and Saturday afternoon the four were intercepted in Killaloe, and so was their homemade “jigger”. The four men were discovered coming down the track in Killaloe by Cpl. R.V. Mallory of the Killaloe OPP. The four were turned over to CN police from Ottawa and charged with trespassing under the Railway Act.

* * * * * * OMB Approves Standpipe Construction of the proposed standpipe in Eganville will begin shortly. Eganville town council received permission from the Ontario Municipal Board several days ago. Markus and Sons, Pembroke contractors, submitted the lowest tender last May at $112,000 and they were awarded the contract. That firm told The Leader Monday their tender price remains the same and construction will begin within the next few weeks. Total cost of the structure, including engineering and other costs, is $134,380. Two years ago, the estimated cost was $80,000.

MV welcomes new propane distributor

By Gerald Tracey News Editor

Barry’s Bay – The Madawaska Valley officially welcomed its newest business last Friday with the opening of P38Energy, a propane distributor headquartered in Valleyfield, QC.

Owned by Guy Marchand, who has more than 40 years of experience in the propane industry and who was one of two founding members of the Canadian Propane Association presented with Lifetime Achievement Awards by the association last year, he is also a former director and former chair of the Quebec Propane Association.

He was joined at the new Barry’s Bay location Friday, just east of the village along Highway 60, by staff, invited guests and members of the public for an official ribbon cutting. Throughout the day, food was served and propane tanks filled at a reduced cost with $10 from each fill-up going to St. Francis Memorial Hospital.

Among those attending were MPP John Yakabuski, Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, and Madawaska Valley Mayor Mark Willmer, both

who extended a welcome to Mr. Marchand and the people staffing this location.

Mr. Yakabuski said as he drives by the location many times in a week, he recalled the sign on the property reading Future Site of “Well, the future is here and I would say that after a long period of anticipation, the people of this area now have a propane facility locally servicing them right here,” he said.

Mr. Yakabuski said propane is becoming more and more a popular source of heating and cooking fuel across rural Ontario as more people convert from oil.

Mr. Marchand agreed the sign went up quite some time ago, but despite the delays he is pleased with the end results.

“We started by servicing this area from a long way, Arnprior, but I said enough of this travelling, we have to be local, we have to have a presence here. The community supports us, and we have to be present and that’s the reason why we are here today.”

P38 also has a depot in Arnprior.

The Bay location is the fifth one in Ontario. The company has 12 branches, five in Ontario and seven

in Quebec.

“We offer a clean and environmentally friendly product and it meets all kinds of needs in many customers’ applications, so we’re pleased to be here,” Mr. Marchand said. “The investment is local; we’re supported by the community.”

Mayor Willmer said the township was pleased to welcome P38.

“It’s been a couple of years of waiting and a long process, but we’re happy to have this day arrive. I love the fact that most of your employees are local or in the area and it’s a great addition to the area and to our main commercial strip.

Karl Mundt of Golden Lake, who has 45 years’ experience in the heating business, is branch manager. He will be responsible for operations including managing the five employees. Mr. Marchand said the Bay branch will expand as demand increases.

Mr. Mundt said the branch is servicing customers as far east as Renfrew, north to Deep River, west to Whitney and south to Purdy and Bancroft.

The branch began operations about a month ago.

Signature Team Realty hosting anniversary event on Sept. 10

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Eganville – Signature Team Re-

alty is celebrating its 10th anniversary in business this year and the staff and agents are marking the occasion with an open house at their Eganville location on Sunday, September 10.

Tony Worsfold, who launched the business in November 2013 with coowner Dan Vodenicar, is extending an invitation to the community to come out and celebrate with them.

“It’s our 10 year anniversary and we decided we’d celebrate it by doing something for the community and also doing a fundraiser for the Kidney Foundation,” he explained.

The event will include a bouncy castle and rock-climbing wall for

the children, a barbecue, and live entertainment by Steve Agnew and friends. There is also some “swag” that will be given away, he noted.

“Everything we’re doing is free, but we will be taking donations for the Kidney Foundation,” he said.

Mr. Worsfold said he chose the Kidney Foundation as the charity of choice for the celebration as he has been on dialysis for almost three years and is on a kidney transplant list.

“I’ve been on the list for two-anda-half years,” he said. “I’ve been doing dialysis for almost three years.” Signature Realty has 11 agents in total between their offices in Eganville and Cobden.

“It’s locally owned, we’re not affiliated with any big franchises or anything like that and our busi-

ness has grown every year since we opened.

“We started out with three agents and we’ve got 11 now,” he added.

“And we’re still looking at opportunities to grow as well. We’re not sitting back and relaxing. It’s been very good.”

Mr. Worsfold said their client base is spread across Renfrew County and even stretches into Ottawa.

“We’d like as many people as we can get on September 10,” he said.

“We’re doing everything for free. There will be things for the kids, and Steve is going to be providing music throughout the whole event. I think it’ll be fun.” The celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot at 131 Queen Street.

Taking part in Friday’s official opening were, from the left, service tech Brady Gibson, delivery driver Max Voldock, administrator Angela Musclow, senior Ontario manager Terry Wright, MPP John Yakabuski, MV Mayor Mark Willmer, owner Guy Marchand, sales representative Andrea Labelle and Barry’s Bay branch manager Karl Mundt. Missing is sales rep Donovan Welk.

Smiles were big Friday when the new P38 Propane distributor site opened just east of Barry’s Bay. From the left are Karl Mundt, manager, MV Mayor Mark Willmer, owner Guy Marchand and MPP John Yakabuski.

Conflicting testimony continues in Eganville murder trial

Pembroke

By R. Bruce McIntyre Local Initiatives Reporter

– The third week of the trial of Brandon Lamoureux, 29, charged with second degree murder in relation to the death of 40-year-old Gilbert Rumleskie on July 21, 2021 continued this week with questions surrounding the reliability of one the Crown’s key witnesses to the murder.

Jordan Plumb was in the witness box in the Pembroke courtroom Monday and Tuesday, marking six consecutive days he was the main source of information of the events leading up to the stabbing death of Mr. Rumleskie at the former Pine Tree Motel on Highway 60 on the edge of Eganville.

Last week Mr. Plumb admitted to the court he lied and purposely misled the OPP officers who arrived at the motel after a 911 call was placed stating a man had been stabbed. Once they secured the location and paramedics arrived on scene, members from the Killaloe OPP Detachment began their investigation into the incident. When Mr. Plumb was transferred back to the Killaloe Detachment, he eventually told investigating officers he intervened before a fight started between the accused and the victim. He told police he got between the two men hoping to prevent a fight. He said he wrapped his arms around Mr. Rumleskie and pushed him up against a car and pinned him.

He told the court he turned around after releasing him and the victim suddenly collapsed and fell to the ground. He said after he released him he saw a knife stuck inside him as he lay on the ground and was unaware the victim had a knife during their brief interaction.

When Mr. Plumb originally took the stand last week,

he admitted under oath he lied in his original statement to police out of fear of Mr. Lamoureux. The admission came after being questioned by Julian Lalande of the Crown Attorney’s Office.

He stated in the witness box he heard from other tenants of the motel Mr. Lamoureux had stabbed an individual in Eganville but was never charged and he also forcibly held a man for four days in one of the motel rooms. He was told the man was tied and left in a bathtub because he was in debt to Mr. Lamoureux. He also told the court the accused bragged about murdering a man in Ottawa and was never arrested due to a lack of evidence.

Unlike testimony he provided to Mr. Lalande, Mr. Plumb was on the receiving end of a very grueling four days cross-examination by Pembroke lawyer Mark Huckabone, who is acting defense counsel for the accused. The defence counsel maintained a friendly, yet professional manner as he painstakingly reviewed much of the content of Mr. Plumb’s original statement of July 22, 2021.

However, he became slightly more aggressive this past Tuesday, stopping short of openly accusing the witness of using his reported “memory blackouts” as a way of denying any responsibility in the factors leading up to Mr. Rumleskie’s death.

When reviewing the statement, Mr. Huckabone said Mr. Plumb and Mr. Lamoureux talked about the killing and read some of Mr. Plumb’s statements aloud in the court.

“You knew that Brandon had said something to you (referring to Mr. Lamoureux’s suggestion that he recount the false statement of his interaction with the accused and his attempt to subdue him to avoid any

fighting in order to shift any blame away from them both) about lying,” he said.

“You said the first time (that) you blacked out the first time this conversation took place but since then you have said that was untrue and you have lied about your blackout ever since,” Mr. Huckabone asserted.

Mr. Plumb took about 10 seconds before answering.

“The first time I said ‘I remember nothing’ and after that I lied every time the police asked about it,” Mr. Huckabone quoted as he read Mr. Plumb’s statement of his conversation with an OPP officer. “Is that true?”

“Yes,” Mr. Plumb replied.

“And this statement was made between the two of you between two cars, right?” he asked.

Mr. Plumb replied “yes.”

Mr. Huckabone referred to video footage from the motel which recorded much of the activity that day; he had already used some footage to challenge Mr. Plumb.

“Then why is that not on the video?,” he asked.

Mr. Plumb took a few seconds before answering.

“I don’t know if we were caught on video because we were between cars,” he said. “I am not sure why our heads in the back of the cars are not there but we were between cars.”

Mr. Huckabone inquired if the witness had seen the surveillance video from the crime scene and he said he had viewed it a few times. Mr. Huckabone then played the video for the court.

“You said this conversation took place between cars,” he asked as the video played and showed no such conversation between the two men.

Later in the day, he again challenged Mr. Plumb’s credibility and referred to his assertion OPP officers willingly and knowingly helped Mr. Lamoureux smoke

Italian driver charged in fatal crash

Killaloe – An Italian driver has been charged with careless driving causing death in relation to a collision on Saturday, August 19 east of Whitney. The collision, involving two SUVs, occurred on Highway 127, north of McKenzie Lake Road in South Algonquin Township. According to a report from the Killaloe OPP Detachment, officers responded to a call just before 12:30 pm., along with paramedics and members of the South Algonquin Fire Department.

The investigation revealed the driver of the SUV proceeding northbound on Highway 127 veered into the oncoming lane resulting in a head-on collision with the driver of the second SUV that was travelling southbound. Several people, including a 10-year-old child, were transported to hospital by paramedics with serious injuries. The 83-year-old driver from Huntsville was initially transported by paramedics to hospital and later air lifted to a secondary hospital by Orng Air Ambulance. Police

were notified several days later that this driver had died in hospital. Police have charged a 43-yearold driver from Rome, Italy with careless driving causing death. The driver was issued a summons to appear in court. Both vehicles sustained major damages. OPP Technical Collision Investigators, (TCI) attended the scene to assist with the investigation. A section of Highway 127 remained closed due to the collision investigation.

One person died in a head-on collision between two pick-up trucks just west of Cobden Monday afternoon and several people were injured. The crash closed the busy two-lane trans Canada highway for several hours, causing long delays for traffic.

cannabis prior to being taken into custody.

“You have previously testified that you observed Mr. Lamoureux being given a bong by the police while in their custody at the motel, is that correct?,” he asked.

Mr. Plumb said he observed the interaction shortly after an officer provided him with a cigarette.

“He was in the back of a car when it happened,” he said.

Once again Mr. Huckabone played the video of the time the men were placed in the cruisers and they could be seen on video alone in each car and no interaction took place. While the video played Mr. Huckabone said, “there is no video of an OPP officer supplying Mr. Lamoureaux with a bong. This would have taken place shortly before he was escorted to the detachment and right before the police would have started questioning him.”

“I can’t explain why it’s not on video, but I saw it,” Mr. Plumb replied.

Mr. Plumb left the witness box shortly before three o’clock and that allowed a brief statement from an expert from the Ontario’s Centre of Forensic Sciences (CFS). On the stand for less than an hour, he provided testimony that did not explicitly rule out the chance of Mr. Lamoureux coming into contact with the knife used to kill the victim. He said more extensive testing is required for a more accurate accounting of any DNA left on the murder victim.

Court resumes today (Wednesday) and CFS testimony is expected to continue. Four additional trial dates for next week were confirmed by Justice LondonWeinstein who is presiding over the case.

Record participation in 13th annual Tour de Bonnechere

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Eganville – In excess of 200 riders mounted up Sunday morning to help set a new record for participation in the 13th annual Tour de Bonnechere cycling event that started and finished at the Legion Memorial Field. Bonnie McIntyre, chair of the organizing committee and an administrative assistant at The Phoenix Centre in Pembroke, one of the sponsoring agencies, said there were 210 participants, 196 who had registered in advance and the remainder who signed up Sunday. She said the number exceeded last year’s total of 179, which was said to be a new record, so the 2023 event is another record-breaker.

“We’re quite pleased with that increase,” she said.

The approximate breakdown for the different rides saw 75 in the 100-km, which was the largest total of the four options, 60 in the 65-km, 10 in the 50-km gravel grinder, and 30 in the 20-km family ride to the Bonnechere Caves and back. The oldest person to participate was 81 in the 60-km ride and 76 in the 100km. The youngest participant was eight in the 20-km ride.

Ms. McIntyre said the field was made up of lots of riders from the Valley, some from Ottawa, one from Israel, southern Ontario and the GTA, and some from the Gatineau region of Quebec.

“There were no incidents to report. It seemed to go very well,” she said.

“We had excellent feedback on the routes and the signage.”

Ms. McIntyre said there was a little bit of construction on the 100-km route, noting Ottawa Valley Cycling and Active Transportation Alliance (OVCATA) co-chairs Ron Moss and Bob Peltzer had cycled the route a week in advance and had driven the route the day before putting up the signage to see if there were any challenges the riders might face.

“Safety is a priority and they’re right on it,” she noted.

All routes were exactly the same as in previous rides, so anyone who had participated in the past was familiar with them.

The annual ride is a fundraiser for mental health services in Renfrew County and Ms. McIntyre said in excess of $12,000 was realized from Sunday’s event.

“The support for the ride was very strong and it seems people really identify with this cause more and more. Through my work at the Phoenix Centre and the Mental Health Services of Renfrew County, we feel raising awareness and reducing the stigma for children, families and adults is so important.”

She noted 12 members of the Upper Ottawa Valley chapter of Music Healing Veterans conducted a live performance at the wrap-up.

“They also have very strong in-

volvement and it’s an ideal fit to have them on board. We all have the same idea of promoting the same cause.”

As the riders prepared to head out, personnel from GearHeads in Petawawa were on site to help with any mechanical issues, and personnel from VC Athletic Therapy, also in Petawawa, were available to help with any aches or pains riders might have been experiencing before or after the ride. Hyska’s Independent Grocery in Petawawa and the Mental Heath Services of Renfrew County donated the supplies for the barbecue.

“They have been very loyal supporters for many years and they were present to give their support and they’re very appreciated,” she said. “Lots of people were taking advantage of their services.”

She thanked Chris Hinsperger, coowner of the Bonnechere Caves, and two members of his staff, for assisting with the parking of vehicles at the Legion Field and for providing direction to the riders as they exited the start area.

“Chris is very committed to our tour and we’re so thankful for that.” Sunday’s weather was perfect for the ride and many of the riders commented the conditions were cool for the start of the ride and then it warmed up nicely without getting too hot.

“It was ideal conditions,” she

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Fitzroy Harbour – The Micksburg Twins cliched first place in the Greater Ottawa Fastball League (GOFL) last Thursday night with their big 12-2 win over West Carleton Electric With the win, the Twins improved their record on the season to 11-3 for 22 points. The Orleans Rebels also have 22 points with a 10-2-2 record, however, the Twins have one more win and therefore get first.

John Enright picked up the win, going the distance in the fiveinning mercy rule shortened game. Enright allowed two runs on three hits, striking out eight and walking one. Adam Rueckwald was tagged with the loss, going three innings and allowing nine runs on 10 hits. Jeff Campbell and Owen Brown hurled one inning each in relief of Rueckwald.

Micksburg jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first as Matt McIntyre singled with one out and came in to score on Jared Steege’s first of two home runs in the game. Steege connected with Rueckwald’s first pitch, launching it at least another 100 feet over the 248-foot sign in right field. Enright allowed a single to Neil Murphy in the bottom half of the inning, but he was erased at second on a great double-play initiated by second baseman Ryan McIntyre. McIntyre fielded Rueckwald’s grounder, tagged Murphy and threw to first to get Rueckwald for the double play.

After both teams went in order in the second, the Twins padded their lead with another six runs. Andy McIntyre lead off the inning with a solo homer on a line drive that sailed over the right- centre field fence. Steege followed that up with his second round-tripper of the

game, this time he hit a laser over the centre field fence to make the score 4-0. Scott Conroy and Paul Griffith singled, followed by a walk to Noah Fleurie, that loaded the bases. Nolan Rook ripped a single over the infield, scoring Conroy and Griffith. Ryan McIntyre followed with a single that drove in Fleurie and Rook. Andy McIntyre singled and Matt McIntyre singled to send Ryan McIntyre home with the team’s ninth run. West Carleton got two back in bottom of the inning as Owen Browne walked and went to third on an Enright throwing error on a Matt Rorwick roller towards the mound.

and

an

The

send

fifth as Ryan McIntyre singled and moved to second on a Matt McIntyre single. Steege walked to load the bases and Conroy singled to send Ryan McIntyre and Steege in. Paul Griffith later singled to bring Conroy home with the team’s 12th run.

Colton Lecuyer then singled to send home Browne. Cavanagh reached on

error

Rueckwald lined a pitch to left centre to

Rorwick home, making the score 9-2.

Twins added three more runs in the

With the win, Micksburg earned the bye in the first-round of the play-offs where Orleans meets West Carleton, the Quyon Flyers meet the Osgoode Chiefs, and Kars Aces play

Micksburg Twins clinch first with win over West Carleton

Andrew McIntyre hit a line drive. Solo home run to lead off the third inning for the Twins in their 12-2 win over West Carleton.

Twins third baseman, Jared Steege, went deep twice in the team’s win over West Carleton last week. Steege had three RBI’s in the game.

Participants in the 60-km Bonnechere Beauty ride head from Hyndford into Douglas early Sunday morning.

Part of the pack of the 60-riders who participated in the 65-km Bonnechere Beauty ride are seem leaving the staging area at the Legion Field Sunday morning at 8 o’clock.

The weather for Sunday’s 12th annual Tour de Bonnechere was ideal for everyone, including this group of participants in the 65-km Bonnechere Beauty ride as they near Douglas.

7,000 attend Cobden Fair

Cobden -- It was a great weekend for the 164th Cobden Fair with blue skies and plenty of sunshine. There was plenty of things for people to check out, including the midway with many rides for young children, the exhibit hall that had all the things people created, grew and baked; home cooked meals, games, the vendors and the animal shows.

“It was a good fair,” said Steve Schultz, past president of the Cobden Agricultural Society. “There were just under 7,000 people who attended.”

The only downside was that the rides from the new midway operator for the teenagers had breakdowns, so with the exception of two rides, all the rides were for young children, he explained.

One of the highlights of the fair was the agri-education booth, which included a scavenger hunt.

Ruby Auhne, an exchange student from Australia, enjoys lunch with Jorja Hummel, Kamala Ellis and Jesse Hummel.

There were plenty of children and adults eager to pet Zena, a boa constrictor that Kyle Lawrie of The Keepers was holding tight to.

Cobden area brothers Kaysen and Kolson Moss enjoy a swing ride.

Enjoying a motorcycle ride are Keith Green of Pembroke and Aurora Chatelain of Arnprior.

It was a late night for some of the children, who took advantage of the many kiddie rides at the Cobden Fair.

Echo the Clown was kept busy making balloon animals for many happy children.

There were plenty of princesses inside the Cobden Ag Hall during the Cobden Fair. In this photo, Cobden Agriculture Society volunteers Nancy Schultz, left, and Zoe McMaster, right, pose with Disney princesses Ariel and Cinderella

Fairgoers line up for night-time snacks, always a favourite at the fair.

Little Miss and Mr. Cobden Fair, Prezleigh Thomas and Max Gould with Cobden Ag Society President Megan Lariviere.

It was group photo time after the champion showperson and reserve champion showperson were crowned at the 4-H Sheep Show. In front are Lyric McIntyre, champion showperson and Riley Lariviere, reserve champion showperson. Standing from left are Doug Burwell, Ann Blimkie, sheep judge Curtis Driscoll, Little Miss Cobden Fair Prezleigh Thomas, Little Mr. Cobden Fair Max Gould and Brian Burwell. The Burwell family is the sponsor of this event.

Coughlin wins double bronze at Legion Nationals

By Terry Fleurie Staff Writer

Cobden – Quinn Coughlin is only 16 years old but the young athlete is rapidly making a name for herself across the country on the ovals of the national track and field competitions.

After her junior high school season where she won gold at every level she competed in, including the provincial championship OFSAA, she has followed that up this summer with impressive results in three national competitions.

Most recently, she won two bronze medals at the Canadian Legion Championships in Sherbrooke, Quebec from August 1113 in the U-18 400 metre (57.11) and 400 metre hurdles (1:02.84). A week earlier, she won silver at the Canadian Track and Field League Championship in Ottawa in the 400-metre finals in a time of 57.06.

And earlier this summer, she

finished fourth in the 400-metre hurdles (58.91) and seventh in the 400-metre (1:03.64) at the Canadian Nationals held in Langley. B.C., the last week in July.

At Sherbrooke, she was racing against people one year older than her, and in Langley, it was with people three years older. The event in Ottawa was open, so people of all ages could participate.

“I’m really happy with how it went,” Quinn told The Leader on Monday. “I was hoping for my times to be a bit quicker, but with the conditions at the races, I’m not upset with how I did and I’m really happy with how I placed.”

Quinn said it was “super windy” in both Sherbrooke and Langley for the meets, which affects times.

A member of the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club, she represented the club at the Legion and Canadian National events. In Ottawa, she represented the Bears’

team, who drafted her earlier this year, at the Track and Field League championship. “I was ranked third overall this season for that, so that was also nice. I wasn’t really expecting to be ranked that high, so I’m happy with that.

“It was so fun,” she added of being part of the Bears. “At the championships when we were able to all come together and I was able to meet the rest of the team, because they’re all spread out across Canada, it was really fun to meet them and have fun with them.

It was a really cool experience.”

Quinn is entering Grade 11 at Opeongo High School this fall and will be competing in her first year at the senior girls level. She said competing against the older girls this summer has been a definite help.

“I have more experience competing against the older girls now,”

she said of the fact she is moving up. “But so much is going to change from now until the spring, with everybody’s times and performances.

“But it certainly gives me more confidence knowing I can compete with the older level athletes.” Quinn is taking two weeks off and will begin training for the crosscountry season with the Wildcats in September. She said at this point she will definitely be sticking with the 400 and 400-metre hurdles next spring and may try the 200, the 800 or high jump.

“I’ll have to figure out which one of those I’m best at,” she remarked.

Considering the fact she just started running hurdles this year, there is no doubt that whatever she chooses, she will be successful.

Scotty Behm honoured by Cobden Ag Society

Cobden -- Scotty Behm of Pembroke was the recipient of a Certificate of Appreciation for his 40 years of participating in derbies. Saturday night, Brian Burwell, a director with the Cobden Agriculture Society, presented Mr. Behm with the certificate.

While all the 40 years have not been at the Cobden Fair’s derby, Steve Schultz, past-president of the Cobden Agricultural Society, said he has been involved in all of the derbies held at Cobden.

Mr. Schultz was to make the presentation, but Mr. Burwell stepped in at the last minute when Mr. Schultz was needed elsewhere on the fairgrounds.

In a statement, Mr. Schultz said, “I would like to take this time to recognize one of our derby drivers for his many years of being involved. Scotty Behm has been involved with the Cobden Demolition Derby since its inception.”

Many cars have been prepared for derbies at his shop.

“Congratulations on your 40 years of being involved in the Derby and maybe your son will follow in your footsteps,” he said.

Quinn Coughlin, proudly displays the two bronze medals she won in the 400-metre and 400-metre hurdles events at the Canadian Legion Championships in Sherbrooke, Quebec earlier this summer. Photo submitted.

Scotty Behm of Pembroke was honoured by the Cobden Agriculture Society for his many years of participation in the demolition derby at the Cobden Fair.

The Ottawa Valley Community Arts and ReDefine Arts partnered to present the Paths of Resistance Arts Festival at Killaloe Pathways Park on Saturday. The festival was inspired by the Countdown Public Art Project and 2022 Renfrew County Inquest Public Art Response. One of the highlights of the festival was the unveiling of the new pebble mosaic trail at Pathways Park. Photo courtesy: Chris Neff

Pebble mosaic park unveiled

Local farmer is a semi- finalist for the young leaders program

By Connie Tabbert

Local Initiative Journalism Reporter

Renfrew -- A 32-year-old Admaston/Bromley Township farmer will have to wait until next month to find out if she was chosen as a finalist in the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Program.

Emily Bromley is one of 24 semifinalists vying for a position in the program, which is operated under the umbrella of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). There are two other Ontario semi-finalists, Carolyn Darling from Castleton and Kaley Mackie Rodman of Northern Bruce Peninsula. The other semifinalists are from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and Nova Scotia.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to interact with the beef industry and help guide it into the future,” Ms. Bromley said.

She is a third-generation farmer, following in the footsteps of her father, Stuart Bromley, and grandmother, Joan Bromley, who own Fondoak Farm, a Charolais cow/ calf operation. Her mother, Kathryn (Burwell) Barr died of cancer in 2011.

“She loved watching me chase the cows,” she recalled. Her grandfather, Murray, told her stories and always wanted her to be more involved.

Looking back to earlier this year, she recalled that while attending the Beef Farmers of Ontario annual general meeting, she was encouraged to apply to the young leaders’ program, with the deadline being the end of March.

“In June they let me know I was a semi-finalist,” Ms. Bromley said. That earned her an all-expense paid trip to Calgary, Alberta. Michelle McMullen of CCA noted there were 70 applications received from “tremendously impressive young people from across the country who are passionate about the future success of the Canadian beef industry.”

To apply Ms. Bromley wrote an

essay on her involvement in the beef industry and why she would be a good candidate for the program.

“I think future producers face many struggles,” she said. Nathan Phinney, CCA president, extended congratulations to all of this year’s outstanding applicants.

“CCA’s board and staff applaud each of you for your eagerness to learn and grow within the beef industry,” he said. “Young people bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the agriculture industry, and our future is dependent on investing in our young leaders.”

Ms. Bromley was thankful for the opportunity to attend the conference and to take part in the selection process.

“I know there are a lot of great applicants out of those 70 young leaders, so to be in the top 24 is an accomplishment in itself.”

She was looking forward to the event because it will allow her the opportunity to make new connections in the industry.

“I love working with people and animals,” she said. “I have received amazing support from people in the industry.”

Ms. Bromley noted her father and grandmother share the Charolais cow/calf operation, and she lives on the farm with her grandmother.

She said Brian, Heather and Brett Coughlin (owners of Cornerview Farm on Snake River Line) were instrumental in her cattle career, as they “took me under their wing. I travelled with them,” to various Charolais shows.

“Without the support, I would’ve lost interest,” she continued. “I’m following my goals and dreams.”

Ms. Bromley grew up through the 4-H program and was a member of the Canadian Charolais Youth Association.

“I was a member and a leader,” she said. “I enjoy giving back to the youth.”

She was the recipient of the 4-H Jennifer McVey Fellowship Award

and in 2019 won the grand champion Charolais Female at the Expo Boeuf in Victoriaville, Quebec.

While growing up, Ms. Bromley said she was lucky.

“Anytime I wasn’t at school, I was always at the farm. I would be trying to pet a calf or tame a barn cat,” she said.

If she is one of the finalists, she will be matched with an industry leader in their specific area of interest in the beef industry for a ninemonth mentorship opportunity. She will also be provided with a $2,000 budget to fund their engagement in various industry events and learning opportunities throughout the year, with additional travel and networking opportunity throughout the program year.

“I will have the opportunity to travel all over Canada attending industry leading events and training opportunities,” she said. “The goal of the program is for candidates to build upon their knowledge base and be able to represent and lead the beef industry into the future.”

However, the announcement of who are the finalists won’t be made until September.

She said the sponsorship from the CYL program made it possible for all the semi-finalists to attend the conference. But, through the years, the local support has also been much appreciated, she added.

“I also thank my family, friends and even my co-workers for their support over the year. They have allowed me to follow my dreams in the beef industry, because I know I’ve taken off lots (of time) to go to cow shows and other events. Everyone pulls up their socks and fills in the gaps when I’m gone.

“I am excited for the experience,” she added.

The CYL program acts as an industry succession planning tool to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and tools they need to continue to drive the growth and profitability of the Canadian beef industry.

Kamaniskeg and Area Property Owners Association (KAPOA) hosted its 11th annual Poker Run on July 29 and recently visited with the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation to drop off the proceeds from the event. An incredible $37,398.57 was raised, with proceeds going to local healthcare including the purchase of a baby isolette for St. Francis Memorial Hospital. Pictured, left to right, are KAPOA President Kerra Wylie, poker run organizer Bruce Willmer, SFMH Chief Operating Officer Greg McLeod, KAPOA Treasurer Laura Stevens and SFVH Foundation Executive Director Erin Gienow.

Emily Bromley of Admaston/Bromley township is a semi-finalist in the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Program. She finds out next month if she is a finalist.

Photo by Julie Malone

Emily Bromley has been showing cattle since she was a youngster in 4H. She now has her own cattle and works with her father and grandmother at Fondoak Farm Photo by Show Champions

Emily Bromley has been around cattle her entire life and is now hoping to be mentored through the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Program. Photo by Show Champions.

Lorna Hudder Memorial Tournament

Friends and family members of the late Lorna Hudder gathered recently to remember their loved one and give back to local healthcare. Money was raised at the July 8 second annual Lorna Hudder Memorial Golf Tournament, which took place at the Homestead at Wolf Ridge. A total of $2,665.42 was raised. Tournament organizer Pat Pilgrim said Lorna was a strong supporter of local healthcare and would want the money to be forwarded to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF) which raises funds for its three partners including St. Francis Memorial Hospital (SFMH), Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC) and Valley Manor. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of essential healthcare equipment. Pictured, from left to right, are Lorna’s husband Andy Hudder, SFMH Chief Operating Officer Greg McLeod, Valley Manor CEO Trisha Deslaurier, tournament supporter Sue Klatt, MVHPC Program Assistant/Clinical Assistant Debbie Morin, tournament organizer Pat Pilgrim, Lorna’s son-in-law and tournament sponsor Joe Holly and SFVHF Executive Director Erin Gienow.

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