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Vol. 9 No. 1
The Voice of North Grenville
January 13, 2021
Don Cameron: a founding figure of North Grenville
by David Shanahan It was a shock when we heard that Don Cameron had died on Sunday, January 4. He was such a presence in this community, even years after he left public life. Most days, before the pandemic, Don could be found at his seat in Tim Hortons in the Kemptville Mall, chatting with the regulars, having a warm greeting and a few words for the many who stopped to say hello. I think that, for the many new comers to North Grenville over the past decade and more, the part Don played in, literally, making North Grenville was unknown. But for those who knew and
remembered his contribution to this community, his part will always be remembered and valued. There is so much to say about what he accomplished in his 80 years, and long before his political career in Oxford-on-Rideau Township, he had been a public servant and a businessman, someone who enjoyed his football, baseball, curling, antique cars, and, most of all, his family. He was a warm and caring man, who showed an interest in all those he met, no matter what their status or position. But the role he played in establishing North Grenville is one that this community will remember. Don had been
a member of Council, and then Reeve in Oxford-onRideau, and had served as Warden of the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville. Then, in 1995, the Ontario government announced its intention of pushing through the amalgamation of many municipalities around the province. There would be no choice in the matter. Don was an important player in the talks that ultimately led to the creation of the Township of North Grenville in January, 1998. It would not be called the Municipality until 2003. The negotiations were not easy, and much heat was generated among the mayors, reeves
and councillors of Oxfords, South Gower, and Town of Kemptville. The fact that Don was chosen as the first Mayor of the new North Grenville was a testament to the respect and admiration he won from his fellow politicians and residents. Immediately, however, Don was faced with an enormous challenge. On the day the first North Grenville Council met, the great Ice Storm of 1998 hit and everything was thrown into chaos. But, with Don Cameron leading the way, this community came together and performed heroics until power was restored weeks later. It was a real baptism of fire. But even before North Grenville came to be, Don Cameron had secured for its people one of the great assets we enjoy still: the Ferguson Forest Centre. Another of the Mike Harris Government’s initiatives, aside from amalgamation, was their decision to close the Ferguson Forest Station. The story is told elsewhere in this issue of the Times, and Don’s vital role in saving the FFC is described there. What can be said here is that, without Don Cameron’s leadership at the time, ably supported by Owen Fitz’Gerald and others, the FFC would have been destroyed, the land sold and built on, and a precious and valuable asset, not just for
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cont'd from front page North Grenville, but for the provincial forest industry, would have been lost. Don stood up to the provincial powers and let them know, in no uncertain terms, that the FFC would never be surrendered. Don Cameron’s leadership in the years as Reeve of Oxford-on-Rideau and Mayor of North Grenville was a case of the right man in the right place at the right time.
The FFC is his legacy to the people of the Municipality he did so much to establish. Quite a record. His role may best to expressed by his colleague and successor as Mayor. Bruce Harrison said this about Don: "Don Cameron was the best person to be elected as Mayor of North Grenville in our inaugural year of amalgamation. It was a pleasure to work alongside Don in laying the
foundations of our community, building the future with action and vision." Our condolences to Don’s family and friends, and to all those many, many people who knew and valued him. A Graveside Service will be held in the spring. Donations may be made to the Kemptville Hospital Auxiliary or Foundation.
Community grieves passing of first North Grenville Mayor, Mr. Donald Cameron It is with profound sadness that we grieve the passing of Mr. Donald Cameron, age 80, who served as the first Mayor of the amalgamated Municipality of North Grenville. Mr. Cameron passed away peacefully at his home last Sunday. “On behalf of all residents and business leaders in North Grenville, my Council colleagues and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Cameron’s family and colleagues,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. There is no doubt that Mr. Cameron’s legacy looms large. We join in mourning the loss of this leader who demonstrated tremendous dedication and foresight, and who helped to shape what our community is today.” Mr. Cameron was deeply committed to public service throughout this life. He served as an influential Councillor and Mayor with the Township of Oxford-on-Rideau, and
was elected North Grenville’s first Mayor after amalgamation in 1999. He also served as a Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. “We appreciate how pivotal Mr. Cameron was to the acquisition of the Ferguson Forest Centre in the late 1990s. As Mayor of Oxford-on-Rideau, he fought tenaciously to ensure that such a valuable asset was not sold by the province to private developers, but instead retained by the community. In fact, it was the Township of Oxford-on-Rideau that purchased the Ferguson Forest Centre,” Mayor Peckford added. As North Grenville’s inaugural Mayor, Mayor Cameron’s first task was to ensure a smooth transition in the aftermath of amalgamation, which required a great deal of trust and leadership. Bruce Harrison, who served with Don and was later Mayor of North Grenville, said: "Don Cameron was the
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best person to be elected as Mayor of North Grenville in our inaugural year of amalgamation. It was a pleasure to work alongside Don in laying the foundations of our community, building the future with action and vision ". It should also be noted that the first North Grenville Council meeting coincided with the 1998 Ice Storm – a no doubt difficult way to start a new chapter. But Mayor Cameron rose to the challenge, and he did throughout his tenure. During this past week, North Grenville’s flags at the Municipal Centre have been lowered to half-mast in Mr. Cameron’s honour.
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Toboggan Hill opens at Ferguson Forest Centre available at the dog park. “Provided posted toboggan hill rules are followed, and Ontario health guidelines are adhered to, experts agree tobogganing is a safe and healthy family oriented outdoor activity. Come out and enjoy the fresh air at the toboggan hill, as well as the Centre’s off-leash dog park, many trails and park areas, and the arboretum,” stated Ferguson Forest Centre President Carl Doucette. He added: “The FFC is happy to have helped the Municipality of North Grenville with this endeavour and to thank Luke Dulmage and Ryan Hess of L&R Custom Farming for their generous donation of 10 hay bales that have been strategically placed on the toboggan hill to enhance the user’s safety and enjoyment”. “Having this new facility to expand outdoor recreation for families in our community is a welcome asset - and very important to our wellbeing. I appreciate the work of the FFC and the Municipality of North Grenville for their collaborative effort,” added Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan and Parks, Recreation and Culture Liaison. Participants are asked to follow the rules posted on site, as well as public health guidelines, including maintaining physical distancing from those outside of your household.
Mayor Nancy Peckford and son with Councilor Doreen O'Sullivan and grandchildren The Municipality of North Grenville is pleased to offer a sledding hill in partnership with the Ferguson Forest Centre. “Council is thrilled with the addition of this outdoor winter activity for residents
to enjoy - without having to leave town,” said Mayor Peckford. “The need for safe, outdoor recreational activities for families is even greater during the pandemic, and we thank Ferguson Forest Centre for offering such a wonderful
space.” The toboggan hill is located at the Arboretum in the Ferguson Forest Centre (241 Honour Way) and open to the public when weather conditions permit between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm daily. Parking is
One of the youngest sliders Briar Crook, enjoying the hill.
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United Counties approve a new bridge on CR43
by David Shanahan The United Counties Council is approving a recommendation to include a new four-lane bridge across the Kemptville Creek for the County Road 43 project. The design to widen County Road 43 from the existing two-lane to a four-lane road dates back to 2008. At the time, the existing two-lane bridge was considered to be in good condition and the plan was for it to remain in place. Additional analysis completed in 2020, however, indicated that a new four-lane bridge was a more effective option than rehabilitating the existing two-lane bridge. New bridges, such as the one now planned for CR43, have a life expectancy of approximately 75 years. Building a four-lane bridge will increase the cost of the project by $7.2-millon. The new estimated cost of the County Road 43 expansion is $38.7-million. Inquiries have been made about the design of the new bridge, to see if it will be higher than the current structure, in order to allow boats to pass under it. The hope is to allow boats using the Rideau Canal system to access the dock at the Prescott Bridge in Kemptville. However, even if the new bridge does allow for the passage of boats, there is another obstacle at Bridge Street, where the bridge there would also need to be high enough to allow passage. In the past, when vessels could travel right up to the old docks in Kemptville, the structure at Bridge Street was a swing bridge, so that issue was not a problem. That structure was replaced in 1959. Yet another potential problem would be the current depth of the South Branch, which might need to be dredged to accommodate vessels from the Rideau Canal. Construction on the new four-land bridge on County Road 43 is beginning this year.
Working smoke alarm saves life of North Grenville resident
by Fire Chief John R. Okum, North Grenville Fire Service Around 6:00 pm Friday evening, a male in their twenties was the lone occupant at the time a fire broke out in the family mobile home. The occupant was alerted to the fire by the sounding of the functioning smoke alarm. Upon opening the door from the occupied room, the individual was faced with heavy developing smoke and a fast advancing fire from another room in the residence. The individual was able to self-evacuate to the outdoors without time to acquire a jacket or footwear. The North Grenville Fire Service was summoned to the report of a structure fire at Fetherston Lane, and responded with various fire apparatus and approximately 30 volunteer firefighters, along with officers from the Ontario Provincial Police and Paramedics with the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville. Upon arrival, heavy flames were visible from the structure and firefighters conducted a fire attack while protecting neighbouring property. There was no fire damage to neighbouring property. A family of four have been displaced as the residential structure sustained heavy fire damage. The family lost pet cats, while all contents within the structure were lost or severely damaged. The building was not insured. A fire investigation was conducted by the North Grenville Fire Service. The fire has been determined accidental in nature with a probable cause resulting in the use of a portable electric heater. The North Grenville Fire Service would like to remind the public that portable electric heaters are intended for temporary heating and are not a permanent source of heat. When using a portable electric heater, always follow manufacturer instructions and never use an extension cord or a power bar. January 13, 2021
The Voice of North Grenville
OPP Report
United Counties Council report Maple View Lodge redevelopment project update: The Maple View Lodge Committee of Management has been authorized by Counties Council to move forward with the development phase of a new 192-bed long-term care home. In March 2019, the Counties was awarded 132 new long-term care home beds and capital funding to redevelop Maple View Lodge. To date, the Counties has engaged a Project Manager (Turner and Townsend) and Prime Consultant Hobin Architecture Inc. As part of the Counties due diligence, the Committee of Management has had a feasibility analysis of two options -the new 192-bed home or a new 128-bed home plus the 60-bed existing home with 4 additional beds. As part of the analysis, a full life-cycle costing was undertaken to look at both capital and operational costs. The Committee of Management continues to work with its consultants on the overall project costs. The 2018 application was based on a 2017 feasibility study and prices. That feasibility study was conceptual and provided minimal design. Due to inflation, infection control measures, any changes in codes, and community spaces, the estimated cost of the new building has increased from $53 million to $64 million. It is important to note that the provincial funding formula has also changed and increased its contributions by over $7-million. The Counties Project Managers will revise the estimated costs and a separate report will be brought back to Council early in the New Year. CAO Executive Search Firm awarded: Counties Council has approved the hiring of company Waterhouse Executive Search (WES) following a Request
for Proposal (RFP) process. Waterhouse Executive Search will work with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Selection Committee beginning immediately. Current CAO Andy Brown is retiring in June. A replacement will be required by May to allow for a transition process. For more information contact Human Resources Manager Colleen Hickey at 613-3423840, ext. 2332. Pre-Budget Approval of Capital Projects: Counties Council has approved a recommendation to authorize $5.5-million to proceed with tendering of 2021 Public Works Capital Projects. The Public Works Department has identified the need to commence with the initial phases of selected high priority projects that will be identified for the upcoming budget year prior to Council’s approval of the 2021 Capital Budget. The rationale for this is to start projects as early as possible in the year and potentially take advantage of contractor availability and potentially lower construction prices. It also ensures staff and external contracted services can commence with surveys, pre-design and any other preliminary works as may be required in preparation of an early tender. The projects on the list include both County Road 44 – 2 sections (south of County Road 20 and north of Totem Ranch Road) preservation, and Andrewsville Bridge environmental assessment Upcoming meetings: The Committee of the Whole meeting is on Tuesday January 5th; the Joint Services Committee on Wednesday, January 6th; Counties Council on Thursday, January 21. All regular meetings begin at 9 a.m. and are livestreamed from the Counties website. For more information, contact County Clerk Lesley Todd at 613-342-3840, ext. 2454.
DRIVER CHARGED WITH IMPAIRED: On December 28, 2020 around 7:00 p.m. officers from the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were called to Burritt's Rapids Road, in North Grenville, after witnesses were concerned a person in a stopped motor vehicle was sleeping. Officers attended and spoke with the driver. After further investigation a male, aged 29, from Beckwith was arrested and charged under the Criminal Code with; Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs sec.320.14(1) (a) Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) sec. 320.14(1)(b) He was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville on January 22, 2021. R.I.D.E. results for 2020: The Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police participated in the province-wide Festive R.I.D.E (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign which concluded on January 3, 2021. Festive RIDE is an annual police campaign aimed at taking impaired drivers off of our roadways during the holiday season. The OPP remain committed to ensuring Ontario roads are safe from alcohol-impaired and drug-impaired drivers. During the campaign, the Grenville County OPP Detachment conducted 131 R.I.D.E. checks, issued two alcohol warn range suspensions, and laid eight Criminal Code impaired driving charges. The Grenville County OPP values your contribution to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected, unlawful activity, please call the OPP at 1-888310-1122 Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-(TIPS) 8477 or submit your tip on-line at www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Anyone who believes someone is driving impaired should call 911 or 1-888-310-1122 OR CRIME STOPPERS AT 1-800-222-8477. Your call could save a life! Access to OPP Detachments restricted during lockdown: The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is taking action to help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 by restricting the access to its facilities, including detachments, across the province. The OPP is limiting the processing of routine criminal record checks/vulnerable sector checks and finger printing to essential workers/volunteers only. Anyone seeking entry to OPP Grenville County Detachments must make an appointment first. Individuals will be pre-screened and are required to have proper personal protective equipment prior to entering the detachment. If you require any detachment-based service, including criminal record checks/vulnerable sector checks, please call (613) 925-4221(Prescott) or (613) 258-3441 (Kemptville) in advance for an appointment. Our operating hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For emergencies, please call 9-1-1. For all other police matters, please call 1-888-310-1122 or your local detachment. Report online by visiting opp.ca/reporting. The OPP thanks the public for helping us to keep our communities safe by using the means listed above to avoid unnecessary contact.
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North Grenville Community Service Council supports Big Sky Ranch
kindness, we’re able to now. We’re going to be getting larger propane heaters and they’ll last a long time.” Big Sky Ranch is currently closed to visitors due to COVID-19. However, they are always looking for donations of disinfectants like Lysol wipes, bleach and PineSol, and animal feed which can be purchased from Willow’s Agriservices in Kemptville. Monetary donations are also appreciated, so they can direct the funds to where there is the most need. Pauline says they are always blown away by the community’s support of the Ranch and are hopeful that they will be able to welcome people back to visit the animals in 2021. “I think the animals are getting bored of seeing just the same five of us. This is a healing place and the animals give back so much.” To donate to Big Sky Ranch, visit their website at www.bigskyranch.ca. Anyone can also donate to the NGCSC. To make a donation, send a cheque, made out to the NGCSC, to PO Box 1992, Kemptville, ON. K0G 1J0.
Mike Blais handing over the $1500 donation to Andy Parent and Pauline Lafleur of Big Sky Ranch earners and seniors – those are the ones that turn to the Local Journalism Initiative Reporter groups.” The NGCSC has The North Grenville limited funding, as each group Community Service Council contributes a set amount to (NGCSC) made a $1,500 the yearly budget. This is the second year donation to Big Sky Ranch at the end of December to help that the NGCSC has supthem with their costs over ported Big Sky Ranch with the winter. The NGCSC is a a donation to help them get Board made up of represen- through the winter. “They tatives from the Kemptville had no money for hydro and Lions Club, the Kemptville they made an appeal,” Claire Kinsmen, the Rotary Club of says. “[This year] there was a Kemptville, the Knights of request from a member club Columbus 5333, and Legion that they again needed fund212. The Board’s mandate is ing.” Requests like these are to look into emergency re- not something the NGCSC quests that are sent to member usually addresses, so spegroups. Any local organiza- cial funding was used from tion or individual can send in members. Big Sky Ranch Office a request to the members to be Manager, Pauline Lafleur, assessed by the Board. “It has to be an emer- says they are very grateful for gency request and their last the support of the NGCSC. “I hope,” says NGCSC Execu- just want to take the opportutive Director, Claire Larabie. nity to thank them, because “It’s mostly low-income they’re all members of our by Hilary Thomson
community and they don’t just do good work with us, they help everybody in the community. Without these service clubs, everybody in Kemptville would be worse for it. We’re really, really touched and honoured that they’ve included the animals in that care of the community.” Because of the generous support of the NGCSC, Big Sky Ranch will be able to upgrade their failing heating systems in the barns to make sure the animals are safe and warm over the winter. This is especially important considering they have animals like emus, which aren’t built for the cold weather. “There are four barns, and we put heating systems that we could afford at the time; but they’re insufficient, so we’re needing to upgrade them,” Pauline says. “Because of people’s
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Student Nutrition Programs working through Food Banks
School buildings and student programming sites have become more than just a destination for children and youth to socialize and engage in learning; amongst the many other roles these sites play in our communities, for many children they have also become an important source of nutritious food. To ensure students maintain safe accessibility to healthy food regardless of school closures or location of learning, and in response to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, Upper Canada Leger Centre for Education & Training (UCLCET) diverted an additional $40,000 to local Food Banks during the holiday season, to be provided to families with school-age children. UCLCET is a community-focused organization that seeks to find innovative ways to spearhead unique projects supporting education, diversity, health and well-being in Eastern Ontario. It administers and distributes
funding for breakfast and snack programs in over 225 schools and youth agencies throughout the counties of Prescott Russell, Stormont Dundas & Glengarry, Leeds & Grenville and Renfrew. In typical times, healthy food is offered by these programs at no cost to students through food bins, buffet settings, or student self-preparation areas. This program is supported by the provincial Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, among other funding partners, food producers and distributors, and is made possible by the dedicated service of several hundred volunteers. “Student nutrition programs offered throughout our regions serve more than 6,824,000 meals to over 46,000 students every year,” Matthew Raby, UCLCET Executive Director noted. “Traditional service models have been adjusted this year to make sure nutritious foods can still be provided to students while ensuring every safety
Tid-Bit Musings by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW New beginnings. Starting afresh. A do -over. Resolutions. No matter the term, the motivation remains similar. It is a time to do things differently, in hopes of achieving greater contentment. That time of action doesn't need to correspond with New Year's Eve, you can set the start date as often and whenever you choose. Few rational decisions are made on the spur of the moment. A good friend chose to withdraw from connections as he "figured" himself out. When there is historical abuse, the desire to re-create yourself in thoughts, feelings and behaviour often entails a listening ear. In one's attempt to make sense of things from the past, do not forget to live and enjoy the present. Being a hermit isn't recommended for a long period of time. Mankind was not meant to be alone - that goes back to when God create Adam, saw he was alone, and said that was not good, so created woman. We need socialization. A listening ear helps us make those new choices. Seems we are always seeking fulfillment of our concept of contentment. The
precaution is taken. The partnership with local Food Banks helps to ensure we can continue reaching students, regardless of where they are learning.” Food is being distributed throughout the regions that UCLCET serves through student nutrition programming, to every food bank that is certified by the Feed Ontario partnership. “Local food banks will always play a vital role in our communities to ensure families remain food secure,” explains Jennifer Cuillerier, UCLCET Student Nutrition Program Manager. “We are so thankful for the generosity of our funding partners, food producers, and distributors. Through the well-established service and delivery models and standards established by Feed Ontario, we know that our food banks will be in position to provide healthy food to families with school-age children and youth in our communities at this time.”
idea of a more active lifestyle, fewer pounds, new relationships, new jobs, new demographics, implies contentment originates outside the body. True contentment is within the heart, if we could only be happy with what we have. For many, it is time to break the cycle of abuse, develop a relationship to a deeper level, to spread your wings, and/or to expand your horizons. I always thought Army Brat meant an unruly, misbehaving youngster, and yet it did not fit the youth of so many Army parents I knew. I learned just this summer it means: Born, Raised And Transferred! For those youth, stability and formation of lifetime friends did not exist, although, with today's social media, that is somewhat alleviated. In fact there are so many transitions in the lives of people due to jobs or relationships, no-one seems to retain connections for a lifetime, like years ago. To aim to increase your connection with family and friends remains challenging with Covid, but the phone and computer gives the chance of keeping in touch. For many, the church or service club was the point of connecting to the community;
but again Covid has put its claws into those connections. Wearing masks forbids us to see if someone is smiling, or sticking their tongue out at us! We are becoming more adept at reading eyes. It remains a task to initiate and maintain relationships. It has to be a commitment where, often, you get out what you put in. All those new beginnings, new habits, new resolutions, require work and commitment. Life is not easy, nor is it handed to us on a silver platter. Even if we win the lottery, decisions need to be made. It remains imperative we approach our new beginnings with the awareness of consequences, implications, and strategy applicable to achievement. Clearly defining our plan is essential and 9/10ths of the battle. Whatever you strive to do, may you seek contentment and growth in your personal being. Do not hesitate to seek the advice of others; especially those who have previously trod the path. Your contentment is only relevant and applicable to you. Treasure YOU!
Ontario helps Seniors’ Community Services recover from COVID-19
New Waste, Recycling, and Organics Program Begins February 1st 2021 Green bins & waste guides will be delivered to each household between January 18 & 27.
Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and MPP for the Riding of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, has announced on behalf of the Ontario government that Seniors’ Community Services (formerly Kemptville & District Home Support) will receive $77,700 to rebuild and recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This grant is part of the first round of funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s new $83-million Resilient Communities Fund. “Non-profit organizations like this one are an integral and valued part of our community and our government is very pleased to be able to provide support”, said Minister Clark. “Many people rely
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on their services every day, and even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, they deliver.” The Resilient Communities Fund provides grants of up to $150,000 to help eligible non-profit organizations. They can apply for a broad and flexible range of needs, such as mental and physical health and wellbeing supports for staff or volunteers, identifying new health and safety processes, or purchasing new technology and personal protective equipment. The fund will also provide grants to support capital needs, such as renovations and facility updates to meet the changing needs of the communities they serve. “Ontario Trillium Foundation funding enables us to build the infrastructure within Seniors’ Community Services to overcome the financial challenges as presented by COVID-19,” said Dawn Rodger, Executive Director of Seniors’ Community Services. “Providing safe, accessible and quality programming to our senior population remains our top priority.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. OTF awarded $115 million to 645 projects last year to build healthy and vibrant communities in Ontario. OTF has redirected provincial funding previously allocated for the 2020 Grow and Capital grant streams into the $83-million Resilient Communities Fund. “COVID-19 has resulted in a ‘triple threat’ of health, economic and social crises in Ontario, and this funding will help 486 non-profits adapt to those challenges, and ensure that they have the tools and resources to provide the best service to those who need it the most,” said Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Lisa MacLeod. “As we work towards the province’s economic and social recovery, supporting programs like the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund will make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families.” www.ngtimes.ca
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Municipality of North Council requests input Grenville responds to from community on New COVID-19 shutdown Road Safety Policies Effective December 26 at 12:01 a.m., the Municipality of North Grenville has been making significant adjustments to its operations in response to the province-wide COVID-19 shutdown. “While North Grenville’s COVID-19 numbers remain low, the province-wide shutdown is intended to stop people from moving from areas of high transmission to lower areas,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Please do everything you can to minimize the impact on local businesses by using online purchasing and curbside pickup options.” Businesses are also encouraged to consult the province’s new business support programs at: http://ontario.ca/COVIDSupport. In response to the shutdown, the North Grenville Municipal Centre will be closed to the public. However, the Municipality will remain operational to provide essential services and assistance to residents and businesses by virtual appointment only. Building and inspection services will continue during the shutdown. Residents should note that municipal arenas will be closed effective December 23 and will remain closed until the shutdown is lifted by the province. Outdoor rinks in Bishop’s Mills and eQuinelle will continue to operate with a limit of 10 people and physical distancing in place. Municipal Council Meetings will be held virtually, as will all Municipal Advisory Committee meetings. Council meetings can be livestreamed, and Advisory meetings will continue using MS Teams as their platform. “For residents who might be struggling, we encourage you to reach out to the community supports listed on our website. Please know you are not alone.” Residents and businesses are encouraged to follow the Municipality on Facebook and Twitter, and visit the dedicated COVID-19 webpage for updates at: www.northgrenville.ca/ coronavirus.
The Municipality of North Grenville is hosting a virtual community meeting on January 20, 2021, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm to provide information and gather community input to help shape its draft transportation policies. With direction from Council, the Municipality is doing a comprehensive overview of its transportation policies in response to increasing traffic-related concerns raised by residents – so that they can be fully updated. These policies include creating a new Road Safety Strategy, a Goods Movement and Truck Route Policy, and updating the existing Traffic Calming Policy and Speed Limit Policy. “We strongly encourage residents to participate in the virtual meeting to help guide the discussion on road safety in our community,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Your feedback is crucial to developing stronger policies that will help us significantly improve road safety throughout North Grenville. We need your input!” The meeting will be held through Zoom and will include options for participants to connect online or by phone, depending on what they are most comfortable with. Participants are asked to pre-register for the meeting online via the website at: www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety. Community members were asked to provide feedback through an online survey in the fall. “If you are not able to attend the virtual meeting, there will still be an opportunity to comment on the draft transportation policies,” added Councillor John Barclay and Public Works Liaison. Comments will be directed to a short online feedback form until Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at 11:59pm. Guided by the Municipality of North Grenville’s Transportation Master Plan, completed in 2019, these policies will help to proactively address the Municipality’s desire for an integrated transportation network. Learn more about the role of each of these transportation policies by visiting North Grenville’s Road Safety webpage at www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety.
Notice of Online Public Information Centre Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study for Northwest Quadrant Water Distribution System Expansion LA Developments is initiating a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) to increase the groundwater supply capacity of the existing Kemptville Water Supply System to accommodate the anticipated development by the build-out year of 2034.
For updates related to COVID-19 visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus NORTH GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL OFFICE
In light of the province-wide shutdown, please be advised that the Municipal Centre is currently closed to the public.
UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETING Council meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube commencing at 6:30 p.m. To view the livestream visit: https://www.youtube. com/user/NorthGrenville/featured For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please pre-register with the Clerks Office at the same e-mail address. Please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting. 1. 2. 3.
Council Meeting - Closed Session – Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 5:30 pm Community Grants Meeting – Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 6:30 pm Planning – Council Meeting – Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 6:30 pm
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY MEETING ON TRANSPORTATION POLICIES
The Municipality is hosting a virtual community meeting on January 20, 2021, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm to provide information and gather input on the draft transportation policies aimed to improve road safety in North Grenville. For details and to register visit www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 6:30 pm Thursday, January 28, 2021 at 6:30 pm
ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Accessibility Advisory Committee – Monday, January 18 at 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Environmental Action Advisory Committee – Monday, January 25 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Active Transportation Advisory Committee – Thursday, January 28 at 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
NORTH GRENVILLE POLICE SERVICES BOARD Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 1:00 pm
The Municipality of North Grenville
285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca 613-258-9569 x211 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002
www.NorthGrenville.ca
PIC presentation boards will be available for review, on the Municipality’s website at www.northgrenville.ca. You are encouraged to review the PIC material and provide your feedback/ comments, and these will be considered in finalizing the preferred servicing strategy. Please contact one of the individuals listed below if you have any questions or comments or would like to be included on the Project Contact List. Thomas Rapley, PMP Class EA Study Lead CIMA+ 905-695-1005 ext.5789 thomas.rapley@cima.ca
Shannon Lever
Marketing Consultant
Phone 613.791.8317 Email: shannonlever@ndtimes.ca the north grenville
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Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.
Gord Logan
This notice was first issued on December 23, 2021.
Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
January 13, 2021
UPDATE
Green Bins and the NEW Waste Guide (includes 2021 Collection Calendar) will be delivered to each household between January 18 – 27, 2021. For more information visit www.NGrecycles.ca.
Public consultation is critical to the success of the study. Given the current COVID-19 Pandemic restrictions, an online Public Information Centre (PIC) has been scheduled to commence on Monday, January 28, 2021 to provide information about the project, activities completed to-date, and obtain your feedback / comments. The online PIC will be accessible for a period of two weeks.
Hugues Bisson Project Manager CIMA+ 613-860-2462 ext. 6660 hugues.bisson@cima.ca
UPDATE
NEW WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM BEGINS FEBRUARY 2021
This study is being conducted in accordance with the requirements for Schedule ‘B’ projects under the Municipal Class EA document as set out by the Municipal Engineers Association (October 2000, amended in 2007, 2011 and 2015).
Contact List. Anne Anderson Administrator, LA Group Kemptville, ON 613-271-9644 anne@lagroup.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
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Marketing Consultant
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Editorial
The North Grenville Times
Walk on by David Shanahan Happy New Year and welcome to the first edition of the Times for 2021. To be honest, I wasn’t sure about wishing you a happy new year, given that we’re already two weeks into the new year. It seemed, at first, to be a greeting that’s a little outdated already. But then, when I thought about it, I realised that the wish “Happy New Year” has probably never been as meaningful, and never said with as much sincerity, as it is this year. Traditionally, saying “Happy New Year” has about as much meaning as that mildly irritating “Have a nice day”. (Incidentally, does that phrase mean “I hope you have a nice day”, in which case it’s a rather trite remark; or is it a command: have a nice day... or else? Oh well, a deep thought for another day, perhaps.) Wishing someone a happy new year is not something we think a lot about, usually. But this year,
it’s different. When we say it, we are almost all thinking about the past year, the year everything changed for us. Remembering the many who have died, the millions who suffered, the restrictions and loss of contact, the social isolation that has affected just about everyone, the incredible bravery and dedication of the frontline workers, the essential workers, the ones we must always honour, what we are saying when we wish someone a happy new year is that they may be saved from all of this in 2021. Of course, we know it’s not over. Perhaps in the summer, maybe in the autumn, there will be some return to what may be considered normal. Vaccines promise much, and without them we can’t count on much improvement. We have learned, in these past many months, that we, as a society, have a clear limit to the amount of patience, endurance, and selfdiscipline we can continue to show. Some people, sadly, never had any of those things
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor, I wanted to share the results of a follow-up survey regarding the proposed correctional facility in Kemptville. It was conducted between December 16 and 21 and was posted on a number of local Facebook groups. 312 people responded. When conducted in September, 191 people completed the survey. In terms of where respondents lived, just over 44% of respondents lived more than 5 km away, with the rest within 5 km. A new question was added asking how respondents used the Kemptville Campus. Almost 38% said they did not use it at all, while just over half said they used it recre-
The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 January 13, 2021
ationally. In terms of other uses, about 13% had children attending schools on the campus, while an equal number were clients of businesses located there. Almost 36% of all respondents were in favour of the facility being built, with about 54% against and just over 10% not sure of where they stood on this. In September when this question was asked, those in favour and against were split about equally at 40%, with 10% still not sure. In looking at the results by the distance from the proposed facility, the closer one lived to the proposed facility, the greater likelihood they were not in favour of it being built. However, regardless of
The Voice of North Grenville
to begin with, and continued to endanger their friends, neighbours and families by their reckless disregard. But maybe that was not a surprise. There is some pride in remembering how we responded to the Ice Storm in 1998; the way in which people came together to support each other during a very difficult time. But this pandemic was different: we weren’t able to be together physically, restricted in how much we could be of practical help, even to our own family members living away from home. That makes it much harder to deal with. But, when we enjoy what may be called 2020 hindsight, I think we will have a greater sense of pride that we survived these months. It is amazing still how much we’ve learned to accept the sight of people in masks wherever we go. We have adapted fairly well to the new realities of life in a time of covid; but it is not easy or fun. One of the phrases that has been used quite a lot during this time has been
“Together, apart”, that is still the aim, the thing we have to commit ourselves to. We have missed so much because of this accursed virus, and it is up to us that we don’t lose more than we must. Do whatever you can to support your family and neighbours: support local stores and businesses as much as possible. Try and find ways to keep in touch with your regular contacts, even if only by email, phone, text, social media, or whatever way you can. When this is over, and it will be over one day, think how wonderful it will be to hug someone again, to travel anywhere you want, without let or hindrance. Think what it will be like to meet your friends at club meetings, church services, or anywhere you want. To visit someone at their home for a meal, or a chat, or a song or two. To play hockey, or baseball, or soccer, or to curl, to act in a play, or just to attend one, or a concert, or an open stage. Imagine the freedom we once had. Those days are coming again, sooner or later.
Then we might be able to really appreciate that life again, but in a new way. As veterans of a great struggle, a life or death challenge that we, as a world, confronted for so long. I can remember my mother and grandmother telling me about what they experienced during the Second World War; the privations, the rationing, the constant fear of death and loss of loved ones away for years. They always told me that we young people didn’t realise how easy we had it in comparison. They loved to sing the songs of those days, to remember the music and the dances, the smuggling and thrill of forbidden sugar, or nylons. One thing they rarely spoke of was the fear, the loss, the internal conflicts. They were determined not to dwell in the past in that way, but to enjoy every new day as much as possible. Of course, that release, that restoration of freedom and normality, wore off to some extent as they faced the realities of living day to day. But something stayed with them from that time,
something that understood how precious life, love, family, and friends really are. Whatever was coming next, they knew they could face, because of what they had already faced. Maybe we’ll have those kind of stories to tell younger generations: stories of how we all wore masks everywhere. How we couldn’t travel as far as Ottawa, much less further afield (at least not legitimately). We’ll bore them with talk of these days when we struggled against an unseen enemy who terrorised the whole world. And we’ll tell them how we made it through to the other side. So, look forward to those days when, as Vera Lynne sang: “We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when. But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day”. With all it means, and from all at the Times, let me say with deep conviction: Happy New Year!
distance, those against always outnumbered those in favour. This was a change from September, where those against outnumbered those in favour only where the respondent lived less than 1km away. There was also a drop in the number of those not sure of how they felt towards the facility being built, with this drop across all distances from the facility. Being against the facility was also prominent among those who use the Kemptville campus with almost 2/3rd of campus users against it, while almost 50% of non-users were in favour. Restating the question of whether they would support building the facility by ask-
ing if views were different if there were economic benefits to the community, those in favour rose by 7%, while those against dropped by 8%. People were divided equally on the risk to residents the facility would pose (about 45% for both groups). This represented an increase since September of about 8% for those who felt there was risk . In terms of the impact on property values, almost 48% thought the values would go down, a 4% increase from September.10% thought they would go up, a drop of 15% from September. Finally, when asked how they felt about the consultations by the province, as was the case in September, just over half of respondents felt it did not matter what the community thinks as the province has already announced what it intends to do. However, the number of people who wanted to learn more about the proposal dropped from about half to 36%. Mitch Bloom, Oxford Mills
Dear Editor, Congratulations Colin Creasey on a great letter in the Times of December 23. I am very glad that you are bringing the infamous schedule 6 zoning abuse of power of the Ford government to the attention of North Grenville citizens. You also make a compelling and articulate case about the importance of changing our electoral system from First Past The Post to proportional representation, an excellent reminder of what is sorely needed. Marie-Therese Voutsinos Oxford Mills
Dear Editor, It is not good to start 2021 with the concept of a huge penitentiary at the south entrance to a still very pretty and relatively quiet small town. I still have some hope that somehow we can change this. How long does this present government remain in power? Where will they find the money during the next few years when we will be further in debt than ever before as a result of Covid-19? So many people have lost their jobs, not to mention their homes. Sadly, I think it will take a long time for the economy to recover. Kath Piché
the north grenville
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Editor Marketing David Shanahan Shannon Lever shannon@ngtimes.ca david@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735
OFFICE 613-215-0735 Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671
Copy Editor editor@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671
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Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca
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The North Grenville Times
What you should know about a silent heart attack
Lao Tzu, the Chinese philosopher, wrote that “Silence is a source of great strength.” Possibly sound advice in some situations. But for people who’ve had a silent heart attack, silence is far from a virtue. In fact, according to a report from the University of California, up to one half of heart attacks are totally silent! So, how dangerous are these myocardial infarctions, and what is the treatment? The first indication of an attack may be when an electrocardiogram (ECG) is done for another medical reason and shows a damaged heart. But it may remain undiscovered until an autopsy revels scarring in the heart’s muscle. Why does the silent heart attack fail to cause symptoms? Some people have a higher threshold of pain than others. Or a higher blood level of endorphins helps kill pain. Or a smaller coronary artery
is involved, causing less damage. And diabetes can cause degeneration of nerves. In 2014, the Rotterdam Study, involving longitudinal research on a cohort of citizens, showed the silent attack is associated with a greater chance of dying from any cause, or from cardiovascular disease, for men and women over a period of 20 years, compared to no heart attack. In another study, ECG evidence of a silent heart attack was associated with a triple risk of death from coronary heart disease and a 34% risk of dying from any cause over nine years, compared to someone without a heart attack. It also noted that there was a greater risk among women than men for both types of heart attack. No explanation was given for this difference. But years ago, Dr. Tirone David, one of the worlds great cardiac surgeons, stressed that
Your doctor will suggest a change in lifestyle to eliminate them. And a good start is a high fiber diet rich in fruit and vegetables, whole grains and unsaturated fats as found in fish and nuts. Your doctor may suggest a 33 milligram Aspirin to decrease the risk of blood clot and should explain complications that may occur with this medication. You’ll know from reading past articles that omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of clotting, lower triglycerides, increase good cholesterol and decrease inflammation. Visit our website, www.docgiff.com/omega to learn how you can measure your level on the Omega-3 Index. So, to Lao Tzu, silence may have its virtues. But it can also hide a serious medical problem. A good case scenario is that you get a diagnosis long before an autopsy. The best case is prevention, prevention, prevention. Sign-up at www.docgiff. com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com.
by-pass surgery is more difficult in women because their coronary arteries are smaller. An Icelandic study, published in JAMA Cardiology, showed what happened to cardiology patients over a 13year period. During the first few years, those who had a known heart attack were more likely to die of any cause than those with a silent attack. But after 10 years, silent heart attack patients were just as likely to have died as those who had a known attack. This means that the silent heart attack can be as dangerous as painful ones. And since they’re so common, it’s prudent to try to prevent them. What is the best treatment? A silent coronary occurs for the same reasons as one that causes pain. So, being obese, a smoker, diabetic, having high blood cholesterol, hypertension, and a sedentary lifestyle are all risk factors.
New foundation raising money and awareness for addiction and mental health their services have risen 20Local Journalism Initiative Reporter 25% over this time last year. “I think there is an inThere is a new founda- credible impact, because the tion in town whose focus is adults in the home are also to raise money and spread quite stressed and impacted awareness of addictions and by the pandemic as well. It mental health. The Safe Pas- could be job losses, it could sage Foundation was spear- be changes in employment, headed by Wendy Embleton it could be parents trying to of Exit Realty By Design at manage work while kids are the end of last year, when not in school; the effects of she saw the desperate need the pandemic are pretty far for mental health and addic- reaching.” tions support in the North Executive Director of Grenville community and Lanark, Leeds and Grenbeyond. “I don’t know any- ville Addictions and Mental one in my circle who hasn’t Health, Patricia Kyle, agrees been affected by this,” she that the need has risen due to says. the pandemic. “I think with COVID-19 has defi- the kind of anxiety, fear, and nitely caused a rise in the worry, one coping mechaneed for services for both nism at times for people is youth and adults across the use of drugs or alcohol. Ontario. According to a And we hear that, across survey by the Ontario Cen- the country, alcohol use has tre of Excellence for Child increased.” and Youth Mental Health, To help support mennearly one third of young tal health services across people reported that their Eastern Ontario, now and mental health has worsened into the future, Exit Realty due to the pandemic. Over By Design will be donatone quarter of parents/care- ing 5% of every transaction givers reported that their that comes through their ofmental health was below fice to the Foundation, and “good”. Executive Director some of their agents have of Children’s Mental Health also expressed interest in of Leeds and Grenville, Lo- matching the donation. The rena Crosby, says referrals to Foundation has been set up by Hilary Thomson
January 13, 2021
says it has been a struggle just figuring out which organizations to support. “I had somebody say – if you’re having a hard time throwing money at it, imagine what it’s like to be a parent trying to figure out where to go. So that defined what I wanted to do with this.” Although setting up the Foundation and figuring out how to support the community in a different way has been a lot of work and a steep learning curve, Wendy is still extremely determined and passionate about the cause. “One of our team said to me when I first set up the Foundation – if we can save one parent from going through this hell, anything is worth it.” If there is one thing that Wendy would like to tell people struggling with mental health or addictions it’s: “You are not alone.” While the Foundation is set up, they are still gathering resources to share. In the meantime, a confidential contact form on the Safe Passage Foundation page can be used, and they will do their best to connect people in need with resources available. “If one person is affected by this, whether
with the Ottawa Community Foundation, which will be trusted stewards of the funds and help build longevity into organization. “Whatever we can put into it, the Foundation will last forever,” Wendy says. “That was a key ingredient. I wanted something that was going to last forever and keep growing.” Wendy is adamant that raising money is only one piece of the puzzle. “We are not only trying to raise funds, but also trying to open up the doors and the conversations, and get more educated about the programs and what not that are available in our region.” Exit Realty By Design now has a page on their website for the Safe Passage Foundation, where they hope to help connect people in need with supports in their community. Right now, they are in the information gathering stage, connecting with organizations all over Eastern Ontario who might be able to support people and their loved ones who are struggling. It is a daunting task for a business that is used to helping people buy, sell, and renovate homes, and Wendy 9
The Voice of North Grenville
Local poet spearheads COVID-19 anthology
Mayor Jim Watson and a few of the contributors at the Ottawa book launch in December. L-R: Pearl Williams, Anna Myatt, Mayor Jim Watson, Jagjeet Sharma, Surinder Sharma, Tejeshwar Sharma [Photo provided by Jagjeet Sharma ] by Hilary Thomson A local writer has spearheaded the creation of a collection of stories, poems, and articles, all reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic. Jagjeet Sharma lives in Kemptville and has authored several collections of poetry, including Nature’s Subtle Seductions (2018), Fragments (2019), and Raindrops (2020). She is also the founder of the Ottawa Ethnic Media Forum, which has the goal of bridging the gap between mainstream and ethnic media. Jagjeet first had the idea for the anthology back in May, when the whole country was in lockdown and she was unable to see her children or grandchildren. “It was an idea that was floating in my mind and I said: well, instead of floating in my mind, I might as well put pen to paper and let’s get going, kind of thing.” She put out a call for submissions on the Ottawa Ethnic Media Forum Facebook page, which caught the interest of June Coxon, the president of the Media Club of Ottawa. “She said they’d like to get on board as well,” Jagjeet remembers. “I said - well, that’s marvelous. We can collaborate on the project, and why not? We’ll get more writers.” Jagjeet and June cast a wide net looking for writers who might want to contribute to the anthology. June had members of the Media Club of Ottawa to submit pieces, and Jagjeet put the call out to her network, posting on the Ottawa Independent Writer’s page, and the North Grenville Writers Circle group as well. They got around 40 submissions, from mostly local writers, and pared them down to 36 pieces to create the anthology. “COVID-19 Chronicles: Reflections on the 2020 Pandemic” was published at the end of November. The 100-page collection is full of beautifully written pieces, that reflect all the feelings and emotions which came with the COVID-19 pandemic. They speak on topics like loss, social issues, aboriginal spirituality, and hope. Some of the pieces are sombre in nature, while others are more humorous, which has been necessary for many to survive the realities of 2020. Two of the published pieces came from members of the North Grenville Writers Circle. In her poem, “Silently”, Jenn Pretty writes about the juxtaposition between world events in 2020 and farm life. Anna Myatt reflects on the early days of the pandemic, the loss, and its slow progression over many months in her article, “2020: The Year that Wasn’t”. The anthology is a limited edition, with only 100 copies printed. Jagjeet is extremely pleased with how it turned out, and she believes it will be an important keepsake for future generations. A copy has been submitted to the Ottawa Archives to be kept as documented evidence of COVID-19. Most of the copies have already been distributed; but Jagjeet says she still has a few that are available for sale for $10 each. A copy can also be found at the North Grenville Public Library. For more information, or to request a copy, email Jagjeet at asiansounds1@hotmail.com. Jagjeet’s portion of sales will be donated to the Ottawa Heart Institute. it be financially, or unsure where to turn, and they find an advocate, I think that’s important,” Wendy says. Here is the contact information for some of the mental health services available in the community: Children’s Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville (18
and under): 1-800-809-2494 Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (16 and up): 613342-2262 Wellness Access for Youth (WAY) (16-24): 1-866-741-1929 or info@ wellnessaccessforyouth.ca. www.ngtimes.ca
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The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford
Couple saves woman in lock
Merrickville Fire Department rescues a woman who had fallen into the Merrrickville lock (Photo provided by Kevin Bridge) in there,” Isabel says. As soon as they realized Local Journalism Initiative Reporter the lady was stuck, and that she had likely fallen, A life was saved in Mer- Jason ran over to the lock rickville last week, thanks bridge, scaled down the to a couple from Ottawa metal chain into the lock who just happened to be and supported her. “We in the right place at the gave her our coats to keep right time. On Wednesday, her warm, because she was January 6, Isabel Truman already quite cold.” and Jason Stelzer came Isabel called 911, and to Merrickville to pick up within minutes the MerJason’s daughter who he rickville Fire Department shares custody of with his was there to help get the ex. They usually pick her woman out of the lock. up at the parking lot across Isabel thought the women from the Yellow Canoe. seemed to have hurt her hip, They were a few minutes so the officers used a basket early, so they decided to to hoist her out and into an take a stroll in the park and, ambulance to be taken to as they approached the lock, the hospital. they noticed there was a Merrickville Fire Chief, woman at the bottom lean- Brad Cole, said the woming against the wall. “It took an did suffer injuries and us a few seconds to realize was taken by ambulance to that she hadn’t just climbed Smith Falls District Hospiby Hilary Thomson
January 13, 2021
tal by Lanark County paramedics. On Friday, Chief Cole said he was unsure of the woman’s condition; but knew that she was still in hospital. “She is very lucky that the couple noticed her, as it was getting close to dark and she might not have been seen until the next day,” Brad told the Times. Isabel has no idea how long the woman was in the lock before they found her. She believes that she must have been climbing the steps to walk across the lock bridge when she slipped and fell where there is no railing. “We were pretty happy that we found her when we did,” she says. “I don’t know how things would have turned out if she had been left there a lot longer.”
Mayor Struthers reflects on 2020 and looks forward to new year impacted, but it allowed us to have the correct wording in not just our official plan, but also the County official plan,” Mayor Struthers said. Staff also worked with MPP Clark’s office to get an extension on the main street revitalization grant, which allowed for the redevelopment of the parkette at the corner of Mill Street and Main Street, as recommended by the ad hoc by Hilary Thomson committee set up to look at Local Journalism Initiative Reporter how best to spend the funds. As we head into a new year, The County has also committed the Times sat down with Mayor to redeveloping the boulevard Doug Struthers to discuss the portion of Mill Street as far as past year, and his hopes for the swing bridge, making the area even more pleasant for 2021. Although 2020 was clouded residents and visitors alike. “That’s a tremendous projwith the threat of COVID-19, the Mayor says there were still ect in having the construction some positives that came out portion completed, and we of the year, because of the hard are looking forward to late work of municipal staff and spring for the county portion volunteers. Using provincial being completed and having parameters, the Public Works the plantings put in,” Mayor staff was able to determine that Struthers said. “It was a great the municipality has over 100 project coming to fruition pretyears of use left in its landfill, ty much during 2020.” The municipality did the even with projected municipal growth. “In the context of that best they could to help support being one of our most valuable the Merrickville-Wolford busiassets, this is incredibly great ness community through the pandemic. Mayor, Council and news,” Mayor Struthers said. Early last year, the Mayor staff worked with the County and municipal staff played Economic Development office an integral role in supporting to offer the Digital Main Street landowners whose land had program, which assisted local been deemed Provincially Sig- businesses in creating or bolnificant Wetland (PSW), with stering their online presence. little evidence to back it up. Through that process, they Through a letter to the Ministry were also able to reach out of Natural Resources and For- to 150 businesses throughout estry (MNRF), conversations the municipality to make sure with MPP Steve Clark and they knew about the federal Minister of Natural Resources and provincial programs that and Forestry John Yakabuski, were available to help them fithe MNRF repealed the PSW nancially during the shut down designation from affected and beyond. The municipality also Merrickville-Wolford lands, conceding that the wetland up- launched a shop local camdate had not been documented paign, to encourage residents as required on the provincial to shop at local businesses wetland record. “It’s more than throughout the pandemic. just a successful outcome for “When you put it into perspecthe property owners directly tive, it’s not just great during
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a pandemic, it’s something that we reinforce in the daily activities of residents of Merrickville-Wolford, knowing that there is a significant value in shopping local as much as possible, pandemic times or not,” the Mayor said. Even with significant challenges and some delays due COVID-19, Mayor Struthers is proud that they were able to maintain service levels for their residents. “As the days went on, we knew it was going to be a marathon. Usually, in a marathon, you know what the course outline is; but at times in the Spring, it was changing daily. And yet, in all of that, with care and consideration, we maintained services to all the residents and had those quiet achievements.” Mayor Struthers is hoping to lead Merrickville-Wolford into 2021 with a steady hand on governance, while ensuring that staff have the tools and capacity to continue delivering services to residents. As council moves into the budget process, the Mayor is focused on having care and consideration for taxpayer dollars, while enhancing and maintaining the assets available in the municipality. He is also committed to keeping in contact with MPP Clark about the value of bringing natural gas to the north side of the river in Merrickville. In all of his plans for the coming year, Mayor Struthers is cognisant that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. “The municipality did well last year in terms of what council and staff did, and so we have the same expectation coming this year,” he noted. “There will be achievements over the course of the year, and a significant part of how many things we achieve will be significantly impacted by the pandemic and the roll out of the vaccinations.” www.ngtimes.ca
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Merrickville residents frustrated with delay of outdoor rink
by Hilary Thomson
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
61 hampers loaded and ready for pick-up or delivery, Turkeys or Hams added afterwards. The Merrickville Lions Club packed 61 hampers full of food, including a ham or turkey, on Tuesday to help support those in need this holiday season.
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Marketing Consultant
Phone 613.791.8317 Email: shannonlever@ndtimes.ca
January 13, 2021
Several MerrickvilleWolford residents have been concerned over the past few weeks about the lack of action at the Merrickville outdoor rink. Resident and mother of two, Katie Dickie, says she was surprised to hear the mayor’s comment at the last council meeting of the year, saying that they were not opening the rink at that time and that many other surrounding municipalities were doing the same. “Our concern at this point is: that’s not true,” Katie says, adding that North Augusta, Brockville, Bishops Mills, Carleton Place, and Ottawa all have outdoor rinks that are available for use, with restrictions in place. She also said that the mayor’s comment about looking for direction from the local health unit does not have any legs. “If you go to our local health unit website, it states right there that parks and outdoor spaces are important for maintaining and improving physical, mental, and social wellbeing. And during the pandemic, these outdoor spaces provide valuable spaces for people to be together in a relatively safe way.” This is not the only year that Katie has had frustrations about the rink. Last year, there was some damage done to the rink house, 11
so the change rooms could not open. It took the municipality forever to put out picnic benches so the kids could have somewhere to put on their skates, according to Katie. This caused them to set up their own outdoor rink on their lawn this year, so their children could have somewhere to skate. Katie’s main concern is not for her kids, but for parents who do not have the ability to create their own rinks. She has seen children skating on puddles in the village, and another resident and father, Eddie Yeomans, saw about ten kids skating on the river down by the locks over the Christmas holidays. His concern is that a child might go through the ice, which already happened 30 years ago on the river. “Raymond Jack was his name, and he went through the ice just at the locks,” he says. “I know, because they have a sports award dedicated at the public school in his honour because he was a keen sports kid. I just thought to myself, we don’t want that tragedy to happen again.” Over the past 13 years that Eddie has been living in Merrickville, he has always been frustrated with the effort and lack of enthusiasm when it comes to recreation in the Village, and it doesn’t end with the rink. There is a great toboggan hill built by volunteers on Collar Hill; but it is unmaintained,
making it unusable. “When you go and use it during the winter, with these big rocks sticking up and big roots going through, it becomes very dangerous.” Eddie says the same kind of effort is needed to maintain the rink. “I’ve been over there when there are grandparents, people on my street who have grandkids, that are over there shoveling themselves, because it hasn’t been cleared overnight. It’s very frustrating when you think that more effort isn’t being made to maintain it, knowing that you’ve only got a short window of opportunity to use that rink.” Mike Seeley, who was heavily involved in helping to build the rink in the past, says there has been suggested upgrades to the rink over the years that have been largely ignored by the municipality. “I’m disappointed in the fact that recreation in the village seems to get put on the backburner, and the effort of community builders put in to get the facilities to where they are, that the township doesn’t keep them to that standard. It’s frustrating.” Mayor Struthers says that recreation is absolutely a priority in the municipality. According to the mayor, his comments at the December 14 meeting were based on information they had at the time, and that things have progressed since then. The delay in opening the rink was caused by a couple
of factors. As COVID-19 regulations changed, they wanted to make sure they were following all the appropriate guidelines for operating an outdoor rink in a pandemic, especially when the area went into the yellow zone in December, and then grey after Christmas. They also had their rink attendant resign abruptly in mid-December, and have not been successful in recruiting one since. That being said, the Mayor says they are committed to getting the rink open this year and that they will be depending on the many volunteers who have graciously offered their time. “We’re putting together a protocol to have volunteers do the flooding and maintaining of the rink,” he says. “That is more than a work in progress to be able to accomplish having ice on the rink for residents.” A group of volunteers received an email at 5 pm on Friday, giving them the go ahead to build and maintain the rink for the winter. A group of eight volunteers met at the rink on Saturday to start clearing and flooding it to create the ice pad. Katie says the municipality has relinquished all responsibility for the maintenance of the rink, leaving it entirely up to the small group of volunteers this season. Although she is happy that they were given the go ahead to get the rink up and running, she is still disappointed in the way it was handled by the municipality. “I’m frustrated with council, frustrated with the mayor, frustrated that we had to push so hard to open something that we all pay for,’ Katie said. “If there hadn’t been the pressure, it would have never been opened.”
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OFA reflects on a year to remember
by Tracey Arts, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture 2020 has been a whirlwind year for Ontario agriculture. As farm business owners, we had to be flexible and proactive as we adjusted to a new reality. The pandemic first hit our province in March of this year and has continued to keep our sector on its toes with changing regulations, public health restrictions and loss of traditional market streams for our products. Together with many partners, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has accomplished a tremendous amount of good for the sector, laying a strong foundation for a post-pandemic road to recovery. The Ontario agriculture industry has collectively overcome significant obstacles and disruptions, including labour shortages,
rail strikes, food processing shutdowns, volatile markets, and a freedom-ofinformation request among a long list of other issues. Despite these challenges, advocating on behalf of our members remained a top priority for OFA. We continued to champion the diverse interests of our 38,000 farm families. In early March, our members had to pivot to virtual meetings in order to maintain provincial safety regulations. This change was a big adjustment for a community that values faceto-face interaction, however, our organization was overwhelmed by the cooperation and willingness from our members to embark on this virtual journey with us. We not only adapted to virtual as an organization - we thrived. Throughout the pandemic, our organization has been able to effectively run virtual booths and events, county Annual provincial and county-level meetings for monthly business, as well as county Regional and Annual General Meetings culminating with our first ever OFA wide Annual General Meeting, all successfully through online platforms. We are grate-
pivoted to develop resources to help our members navigate effectively. OFA created a summary of financial programs available to farmers, along with a producer's guide to selling directly to consumers throughout the pandemic, a guide for minimizing workplace risk, and fact sheets with the most up-to-date information on our website. Throughout the pandemic, we continued to advocate hard for the pressing issues affecting our membership. In a year like no other, OFA lobbied for Bill 156 to be put into force, in order to protect farm animals, the food supply, as well as farmers and their families. We also put our lobby efforts into furthering investments for broadband and cellular expansion, for expansion of natural gas infrastructure for rural, northern and remote communities, and for funding to increase to Ontario's Risk Management Program. Additionally, OFA successfully influenced the Ontario government to address our concerns regarding the NotFor-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) and spearheaded the Freedom-of-Information (FOI) request settlement. You, our members, have
ful for our members and counties who have adapted to making these virtual meetings successful, and were overwhelmed by the participation and support shown at our Annual General Meeting. It is a well-known statistic that the farming community makes up 2% of the population and often, rules and regulations do not initially reflect the unique needs of our sector. In this case, Public Health had declared a vague and ominous restriction on farmworkers, which would limit them to only working at one farm in the hopes of reducing the spread of COVID-19. As a dairy farmer myself, I knew that this would cause significant issues for Ontario's farming families. To solve this issue, I was given the opportunity to work with the Southwestern Public Health Unit (SWPH) and lobbied for clarification to ensure that public health restrictions fairly addressed the unique needs of the agriculture sector. Along with other lobby efforts, the OFA team worked to ensure that our members had the tools required to navigate COVID-19 successfully. Communications
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also been a large part of this success, as you have all been active advocates, locally holding meetings with politicians to address key priorities and issues within our sector. We owe our successful year to the collaborative work with fellow industry stakeholders throughout the value chain. Working together for the common goal of a dynamic and robust Ontario agri-food sector during
the pandemic has been vital in keeping the agri-food sector resilient. I am incredibly proud to be a part of such a hardworking sector and to represent my counties at the provincial level. I hope we can end this year on a high note, celebrating Ontario agriculture's resiliency and strong advocacy. On behalf of OFA's team, I wish you all the best in 2021.
Th��� y��! Th��� y��.! To all my family, friends and neighbours for a memorable 99th birthday. From the car drive by, the flowers, the food, cards, phone calls and balloons, facebook book messages and best wishes. I appreciated hearing from each of you. The three beautiful booklets from Ellen Miller, Beth Tilbury and Doreen O'Sullivan will be treasured forever. My sincere appreciation to all who organised the 'car drive by', Mayor Nancy Peckford, North Grenville Curling Club, St. James Anglican Church, NG Fire Department, Kemptville District Community Association. Many thanks! Happy New Year
N��m� Fi����
COMING SOON! LA Group is getting ready to drop some happy news on North Grenville’s doorstep.
January 13, 2021
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EMPLOYMENT OPPOTUNITY LA Group is looking for a passionate Support Manager to join our small but mighty team. We’re an award-winning construction company and community builder. We’ve put over 3,000 families in homes across the Greater Ottawa Area. But our base is in Kemptville. As Support Manager you’ll have the flexibility to work from home some of the time, as well as in the LA Group offices. If you’re a wellorganized multi-tasker, with strong communication and problem-solving skills, that’s a great start. Total proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite is a must. And you’ll need an aptitude and finesse for social media. Being bilingual in both official languages is a concrete asset. We look forward to receiving your application. Resumés should be submitted to anne@lagroup.ca no later than the 30th of January 2021. No need to send a cover letter, just include a paragraph or two explaining why you feel you would be the right person for this role. Highlight anything we won’t find on your CV. Go to lagroup.ca for more information on the role and our company.
LOOKING TO RENT FARMLAND FOR ORGANIC CASH CROPS SPECIFI- CALLY LOOKING FOR LAND THAT'S FALLOW/OVERGROWN OR OLD HAY/PASTURE. ALSO INTERESTED IN CONVENTIONAL CROP-
LAND TO TRANSITION TO ORGANIC. CALL OR TEXT MITCH @ 613-262-1204
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The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Shrimp with Feta: As we start to wind down from over-indulging over the festive season, we can look at recipes that are a bit more respectful of our waistline. Fish and seafood are a great alternative. In our family, we try to have fish once a week and some form of seafood twice a month. Shrimp is an all-time favourite. They are readily available and the prices aren’t too bad, compared to other seafood such as lobster and scallops. Try this one on for size (it has a bit of Greek influence). Ingredients: 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined 8 plum tomatoes ¼ cup of thinly sliced garlic (5 large cloves) 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 1 cup dry white wine 1 cup diced feta cheese 1 stick of butter, cut into pieces and softened (1/2 cup) 1 tablespoons parsley Pepper to taste Parsley garnish Preparation: Cut shrimp in half lengthwise Remove and discard stem end from the tomatoes and cut the remaining portions of the tomatoes into large, bite-size pieces Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat Add the garlic and cook until golden brown Add the tomatoes and cook 2-3 minutes or till softened Add wine and lemon juice and simmer 3-4 minutes Add the shrimp and feta cheese, stirring gently to combine, but being careful not to break up the feta Simmer just long enough for the shrimp to be cooked through (and not too much) Add the butter and stir gently until it is melted into the sauce Place in serving dish over a bed of rice, grind a bit of pepper on top and garnish with parsley. Try a cold Chardonnay with this one and let me know how it worked out. January 13, 2021
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by Naomi Jackson You may have heard kids talk about something called Roblox, and are wondering what it is. Is it a game, and why are young people spending so much time on it? Roblox is a well-known gaming platform that is quickly growing around the world. It is popular with kids, teenagers, and even some adults. Roblox powers imagination and creativity by allowing players to make their own games and publish them to the platform for others to play. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of Roblox players has skyrocketed. After launching in 2006, there are now over 164 million players on Roblox. Let us take a deeper look into the Roblox community, how to get started, how Roblox makes money, how to play safely and avoid online bullying and scams. If you search for “Roblox” on the internet, you will get a lot of links to different websites. One of those links takes you to the Roblox website, where you can sign in, or sign up to create an account. After signing in, you will see a list of recommended games and a picture of your avatar head. Everybody starts off with the beginner’s avatar, sometimes called the “noob” avatar. The word noob refers to a new person on Roblox. If you want an upgrade, you need Robux which brings us to our next category. Robux is Roblox’s digital currency. Robux cards ($5 to
$50) can be purchased online and in many stores, alongside other gift cards. While you do not need Robux to play most games, they are needed to purchase online clothing, accessories, hair styles, and animations for your avatar. This is how Roblox, game developers and digital clothing designers make money. Teenagers and kids want to be noticed and stand out in this online gaming community. Robux allows players to create unique avatars and buy game passes. Game passes can give you special items, abilities, and features in certain games. Players can be whatever and whoever they want to be, they don’t need to be selfconscious at all. This leads us to our next topic: scammers. As a new player, you need to be careful when you use Robux to buy something in a game. Scammers often target the noobs that just bought Robux. If you even feel a smidge of doubt, like it is too good to be true, then it probably is. Some scammers will give you a link to a website offering “free Robux”. This is not true. They can only be bought by yourself, or if someone gives you a Robux gift card. Next to scams, bullying is also a concern. One day I was playing a game called Meep City. I was walking around after creating a new outfit and I came across two girl players whose avatars had dark skin and a pride flag draped across their backs. An-
other player approached them and started to harass them by calling them offensive names. I said, “Stop harassing them, leave them be! Keep your thoughts to yourself and stop being homophobic and racist!” The two girls and I were enraged by his behaviour. After five minutes of trying to defend the girls, I said to one of them: “Let’s go someplace else, he just wants attention.” We went to one of their digital houses and talked about what happened. They said it happens a lot. This made me feel disappointed that there is still this level of racism and homophobia on Roblox today. I am now online friends with them. Here are some tips to avoid being scammed or bullied. Never play a game that is offering free Robux. Never give out personal information, such as your real name and address. Don’t click on ads in Roblox. Don’t chat with people you don’t know. Roblox is aware that there can be arguments among players, so they have safe chat for players 12 and under. Roblox is a wonderful, but sometimes harsh, online gaming community. It is growing and changing for the good as more voices speak out to stop cyberbullying and scams. Roblox is safe to play, and incredibly fun to explore with your friends, and might just be the community for you.
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CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Sleighs 6. Breezed through 10. Bungle 14. Moon of Saturn 15. Anagram of "Note" 16. Citrus fruit 17. Muse of love poetry 18. A soft porous rock 19. Largest continent 20. Large oblong melon 22. Happy 23. Anagram of "Merit" 24. Scallions 25. Chills and fever 29. Peculiar 31. Advise 33. Subjugate 37. Be a snitch 38. Listener
39. Impassive 41. Fetes 42. Physical examination 44. Where the sun rises 45. Lance 48. A nine-piece musical group 50. Words 51. Gather responsibilities and authority 56. Against 57. Strip of wood 58. Sensational 59. Tropical tuber 60. Monster 61. Come together 62. Dash 63. 365 days 64. Indian antelope
DOWN 1. Goulash 2. Former Italian currency 3. French for "State" 4. Tryst 5. Sound of contempt 6. Try 7. A stream of lava 8. Implement 9. Prefect 10. Whip 11. Fine thread 12. Inuit boat 13. Tiny balls strung together 21. Misinform 24. Optical maser 25. Does something 26. Satyr 27. "Do ___ others..." 28. Appraisal 30. Asthmatic's device 32. Canker sore 34. Operatic solo 35. V V V V 36. At one time (archaic) 40. Bloodline 41. Leopard 43. Against 45. Condition 46. Prison-related 47. Spare 49. Anklebone 51. Cause surfeit through excess 52. Roman moon goddess 53. Colored part of an eye 54. Medium-sized tubular pasta 55. Biblical garden
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January 13, 2021
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How the Ferguson Forest Centre was saved by David Shanahan The announcement, when it came, was like a bolt from the blue, bringing shock and dismay to the residents of North Grenville. Of course, North Grenville didn’t yet exist, for this was October, 1995, and the Ontario Government had released their first targets for closures and cuts under the Mike Harris “Common Sense Revolution”. The G. Howard Ferguson Forest Station, covering 1,100 acres in Oxford on Rideau Township, was scheduled for closure by June of the next year. The Forest Centre had been opened in 1945, to establish both a mixed forest for lumber and other specialist work, and, most importantly, a tree seedling nursery to produce stock for reforestation efforts in Eastern Ontario. It had been found that much of the land in the region was susceptible to devastating loss of top soil once trees were removed by farmers. Areas such as the one now covered by Limerick Forest, soon became unable to sustain farms and settlement. Other places actually became sandy deserts, as the tree cover was removed. The role of the Forest Station in Kemptville was vital in reforestation, because, as one expert put it: “Indigenous species must be grown in the proper time zone and soil conditions. Seedlings from other areas are not satisfactory and do not grow well. The difference from one area to another is highly significant.” In addition, the closure of the Ferguson Station would mean loss of jobs and a precious asset to the Oxford-onRideau Township area. It all seemed so unnecessary. Why shut down such a valuable resource? The Ministry of Natural Resources [MNR], which operated the Station, pointed to the one million dollars they lost every year at the Station. There were serious questions in the community about the efficiency of MNR operations, however. The Government were charging 10¢ per tree to buyers, when it was calculated that the market would easily pay three times that amount. The community mobilised and a Community Consortium was formed, but meetings with the Minister in charge, and correspondence 14
with the Premier’s office seemed to produce no response; the Province seemed determined to push through with the closure of the Station. Only strong representations from MPP’s and Don Cameron’s Oxford Council delayed the removal of equipment from the Station. The MNR’s plan was to sell off all the two- and three-year old trees and plough the rest of the twelve million seedlings into the ground. As it takes three years for seedlings to become available for harvesting, this would leave any potential buyer of the Station with no crop for three years after purchase. Clearly, the Province was not interested in maintaining the Station as a tree nursery, regardless of the essential role it played in reforestation of eastern Ontario. Once again, the community mobilised. Urgent representations were being made to Oxford-on-Rideau politicians, and, in March, 1996, Don Cameron wrote to the MNR about buying the Station at a minimal cost. The Station closed, as planned, in June, 1996, and the MNR started the process of selling the property. Volunteers in the community were asked by Council to come to the Station and weed and irrigate the three million seedlings in order to save the crop for at least another year. The Province now had to dispose of the property, and under Ontario law, the right of first refusal went to the Oxford Township. In July, MNR asked Oxford if they were interested. Oxford Reeve, Don Cameron and Councillor Owen Fitz’gerald argued in favour of Oxford expressing an interest in the purchase and Council agreed unanimously with this approach. There was some thought among Council members that some of the land could then be sold to developers for housing; but it seems Don and Owen argued that the land in question may have been on a flood plain and could not be built on. They may, or may not, have known that this wasn’t the case. In any event, the idea was dropped. Don then informed MNR of Council’s decision and added a very significant statement. Oxford would not be changing the zoning on the land, no matter who bought it. It would remain agricultural
land. This would obviously make the property harder to dispose of and limit MNR’s choices in the matter. This stand may well have saved the Station. Weeding and irrigation continued to be provided by volunteers. Local people came to help, as did people from Ottawa and surrounding areas. Buses of Mohawks arrived from Akwesasne to help in the work, and the extent of the voluntary effort must have come as a great source of encouragement to those working to save the Station. Ontario now decided it only wanted to sell about 360 acres of the Station, the part that was cultivated. Ontario was asking Oxford Township to pay $1.2 million for the 360 acre package (including equipment, buildings and crops). The Township made an offer of $525,000 for the land, buildings, equipment and crops, and repeated the veiled threat that the land would never be rezoned by the township. By August, 1997, an agreement was reached between Oxford Township and the MNR, and the Township set up an Advisory Board, a group of volunteers who would oversee the newlyacquired Station and try and build a solid economic foundation for future growth. Previous customers of the Forest Station committed to buying trees from the new facility and by January, 1998, half a million trees had already been sold, about half of the available stock for that year. It would take a long time to get things on a secure footing. But as the headline said in March, 1998: the “Forest Station was Back in Business Again”.
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School reopening delayed "We are open for your convenience during these troubled times" Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise at an alarming rate throughout the province, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts, is extending certain measures to keep students, education staff, and residents of Ontario safe. This includes extending in-person learning until January 25, 2021 for elementary school students in the 27 Southern Ontario public health unit regions. These time-limited measures are being taken to help ensure that all Ontarians stay at home as much as possible to minimize transmission of the virus and prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed. Targeted testing done among students and staff in December 2020 confirmed that schools are not a significant source of transmission. However, with students having been at home for several weeks and with reports of concerning behaviour over the holidays, the positivity rate among school-aged children has increased sharply. Most troubling, the positivity rate
for kids aged 12-13 years old increased from 5.44% in late November, early December to nearly 20% in early January. Returning students to school now, with community transmission and positivity rates so high, risks losing the hard-fought progress made in keeping schools and students safe. The Ministry of Education will continue to act on the best advice of medical and health experts to ensure that students in Ontario are able to return to school safely. The government's comprehensive plan of more than $1.3 billion to protect students and promote safe learning environments will continue to be in place to support students and staff. The plan includes investments in personal protective equipment, improved ventilation, money to support the hiring of additional staff, and the introduction of asymptomatic testing to screen against COVID-19. "I have and remain firmly committed to getting students back into class as soon as possible - there is nothing more important. However, the best medical and scientific experts have been clear: while schools have been safe places for kids, the sharp rise in community transmission puts that progress and Ontario families at risk," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. "During this time, students will remain engaged in live teacher-led online learning with access to enhanced mental health and technology supports." In the weeks since Ontario was moved into a Provincewide Shutdown, trends in key public health indicators have continued to worsen in both Northern and Southern Ontario, including concerning trends in health system capac-
Register for Kindergarten "My daughter is turning 4 this year and I'm registering her for Kindergarten with the UCDSB."
ity, most notably in hospitals. The impacts of these timelimited measures throughout the province will be evaluated after 14 days to determine if it is safe to lift any restrictions or if they need to be extended. "In the last two weeks, we have seen concerning trends at home and abroad, as well as increased community transmission during the holidays, indicating that it is not yet the time to begin easing public health and workplace safety measures," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. "While extending the shutdown in Northern Ontario is not the news many wanted to hear, we must work together to stop the spread of COVID-19, protect hospital capacity, and save lives." The Chief Medical Officer of Health will continue to consult with experts, review data, and provide advice to government on the appropriate and effective measures that are needed to protect the health of Ontarians. This will include an assessment of how and when it is safe to exit the Provincewide Shutdown and move public health unit regions back into the COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open, including how a revised approach for the safe reopening of retail may be operationalized. "As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it is crucial that all Ontarians continue to follow all public health and workplace safety measures," said Dr. David Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health. "To help stop the spread of COVID-19 and safeguard health system capacity, Ontarians are strongly urged to stay at home, limit trips outside of their house-
holds for essential reasons only and must not gather with individuals outside of the people they live with." To support families during this extended school closure, child care centres, and homebased child care services will remain open. Ontario is also expanding eligibility for the Ministry of Education's targeted emergency child care program for a broader number of frontline health and safety workers. In order to continue to support remote learning, the ministry has recommended that a portion of the second half of federal funding, an additional $80 million investment, will be provided for additional technological devices, such as laptops and tablets, to support school boards in procuring about 160,000 additional devices province-wide. For those requiring additional support during this challenging period, Ontario is providing an additional $10 million in support of student mental health, including funding for Kids Help Phone to support children and youth across the province. School Mental Health Ontario will be providing mental health resources and strategies to support students during this period. Financial support is available for families during this temporary remote learning period through the Support for Learners program. Starting on January 11, 2021, an expanded Support for Learners program is providing $200 for each child/youth up to grade 12 and $250 for each child/youth up to age 21 with special needs. Applications will be open until February 8, 2021.
Healthy Eating for the New Year by Danielle Labonte, MAN, RD, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit All Foods Fit All foods can be part of a healthy eating pattern, provided you don’t have a health condition that affects what you eat. The key to “all foods fitting” is moderation. It is important to include colourful vegetables and fruit, whole grains, and protein foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, peas, lentils, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds, and lower fat milk, yogurt and cheese every day. This helps us get the
Register online or call your local school
www.ucdsb.on.ca January 13, 2021
15
nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that we need to be healthy. Foods that are higher in salt, sugar and fat like candies, pastries, chips, chocolate, etc. can also be included as part of a healthy diet, in moderation. When it comes to all food fitting, it is recommended to avoid referring to foods as “good” or “bad”, as this can link emotions to food and may create guilty feelings for eating certain foods. It also goes against the concept that all foods fit by implying that bad foods shouldn’t be eaten. It’s
especially important to be aware of how we refer to foods around children. We want to make sure children aren’t eating certain foods to be “good” or to avoid being “bad”. For more information, visit www.healthunit.org, connect with us on Twitter and Facebook, or call 1-800-660-5853.
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Senior Times
The Voice of North Grenville
Seniors’ Community Services modify services
On December 21, 2020, the Province of Ontario announced a 28-day extension of the Covid-19 Emergency Orders. While many of the programs offered by the Seniors’ Community Services are considered an essential service, our centre remains closed to the public until January 23, 2021 - with the exception of our footcare program clients. The staff and volunteers at Seniors’ Community Services adhere strictly to the guidelines set forth by public health authorities, and as circumstances change, we will continue to adapt our plans and protocols to respond to the evolving situa-
tion so that we can continue to offer essential programs and services to seniors living in our community. The following is a list of our modified programs and services: Centre: Closed to walk-in traffic. Footcare: Fee for Service (Available by Appointment Only): Proper foot care is very important in all stages of life, but especially in later years, which is why this program is considered an essential service. Provided by an advanced foot care nurse, services includes: trimming of nails, treatment of calluses, corns and in-
ing prior to entering vehicle, mandatory mask use, and sanitizing protocols. Please contact our office at 613-258-3203 to schedule transportation. Meals on Wheels (fee for service): Our volunteers will continue to deliver this essential service to you, as scheduled. Volunteers adhere to strict meal delivery protocols to reduce the risk of spread of COVID 19 and ensure the continuity of this service, while contributing to keep everyone healthy. Please contact our office at 613-258-3203 to schedule delivery. Virtual Recreational & Social Programming (no fee): Qigong – Subject to availability via ZOOM Qigong is a mind, body, and spiritual practice that encompasses posture, movement, meditation, breathing, and some martial arts training. Traditionally, people who have practiced Qigong value it for its posi-
grown toenails. Strict public health guidelines include guest screening prior to entering the building, mandatory mask use, sanitizing protocols, and temperature checks. Please contact our office at 613-258-3203 to schedule an appointment. Transportation Services (fee for Service): Transportation to medical appointments and to get groceries are also considered essential services; however, during the 28-day lockdown, we are unable to support transportation for banking, mail retrieval, or multiple grocery store stops. Strict public health guidelines include screen-
Kemptville Re�rement Living has been expertly designed to offer a full range of Lifestyle Op�ons:
613-258-7800 www.kvrl.ca
tive effects on their mental and physical health and their spirituality. In fact, some studies suggest that Qigong can benefit people who are suffering from a wide array of health conditions. Please contact Carol Friesen at 613-258-3203 or by email at carol.friesen@ seniorscs.ca. Exercise Class - 3 x per week via ZOOM: Exercise in your living room includes stretching and range of motion movements to help increase or maintain flexibility and balance. Facilitated by our professional instructor, learn helpful tips and tricks to remain strong while in your own home. Please contact Carol Friesen at 613-2583203 or by email carol. friesen@seniorscs.ca. Seniors Centre Without Walls - 3 per week by telephone: Seniors’ Centre Without Walls allows participants to socialize and join-in on trivia, short stories, brain games, and group discussions by telephone. Programs are multi-person phone conversations that engage 8-15 people per call. It is a great way to stay connected with one another within the walls of your own home and just
have fun! Please contact Jennifer Graham by phone at 613-258-3203, or by email at jennifer.graham@ seniorscs.ca. Home Safety Services Checks - Daily or as required by telephone: Our staff and volunteers continue to conduct daily telephone checks with clients for health and safety purposes. To register please call 613-258-3203. General Information and Referrals (As required). If SCS staff are unable to assist you, they will refer you to the appropriate agency. To our Trusted Clients and Supporters: I fully understand the helplessness many have felt throughout this pandemic, and right now it appears as if things will only get worse before they get better, but we WILL get through this, as long as we continue to work together! THANK YOU to our supporters for your commitment to our mission and for going the extra mile for our clients. We simply could not support them without you by our side, along with our incredible team of dedicated professionals, volunteers and advisors.
•Independent Lifestyle •Full Service Lifestyle •Care & Service-By-Design Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.
613-445-5200
215 Van Buren Street, Kemptville 613.258.7462 jansenlaw.com
www.russellmeadows.com
Real Estate - Wills & Estates - Family Law - Corporate
Throughout these challenging times, we are continuing to provide essential services:
cted ~ e n n o C ep Let’s Ke are Stronger we Together
· Meals on Wheels (frozen), delivered to your door · Regular telephone calls from our volunteers · Essential Transportation Footcare clinic - Income Tax Clinic - Seniors’ Centre Without Walls - NEW Virtual Programming - Exercise etc.
Revenue Canada Charitable Number 118979111RR0001
215 Sanders St., Suite 101, Kemptville January 13, 2021
Rachel S. Jansen, B.Comm., J.D.
613 -258-3203 16
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Tiffanny the Tea Trickster by Isabelle Nadeau Once upon a time, there were two sisters living together in an old farmhouse. Both these sisters were vile, and the people in the nearby village called them witches. A few times a month, a child in the village disappeared. They were said to have run away because the parents of those children were abusive, but no one knew the truth. The truth, in fact, was darker and more upsetting; the witches had taken them. The sisters, Wilma and Ezmeralda, forced these children to work on their farm as slaves, and none of them were happy. One day, Ezmeralda walked to the nearby river to catch some frogs for her potion. Behind the bulrushes, she spied a pair of eyes timidly peering at her. Quick as a flash, the witch reached into the bulrushes and pulled out a girl by her pigtails, the girl screamed. “Ah ha!” cried the witch, “Trying to get away, are we? What’s your name?” “Tiffanny,” said the girl,
whimpering. Ezmeralda was angry, she didn’t like it when her captives tried to escape. “Where did you think you were going? Wilma and I do not tolerate escapees!” “Well,” said Tiffanny, “I was trying to learn.” “Learn what?” Asked the witch. “I want to learn how to be a witch, just like you! I admire what you do.” Ezmeralda was stunned, she wasn’t used to flattery or admiration. “Oh,” she said, “Maybe I could teach you a few things.” “That would be fantastic!” said the girl. The witch let go of her pigtails and gestured toward the river. “I’m just gathering the ingredients for a potion, care to help?” “Of course!” Said Tiffanny. The rest of the afternoon, they caught frogs in the water, and at dusk, they headed home. All night, they brewed their potion, working until Ezmeralda collapsed on the sofa in the living room. “Ezmeralda?” Said Tiffanny. “Yes?” The witch an-
Meet Aneka Reid
swered. “What does the potion do?” “Good question,” came a response, “It can turn people into goats. Impressive, right?” “Oh, yes!” The girl said. “You look exhausted! How about I make some tea?” “Good idea,” said Ezmeralda, “Make some for Wilma too. Wilma!” She shouted, “Come down and have some tea!” “Coming!” Boomed Wilma from upstairs. The stairs shook as the witch descended. Tiffanny reappeared with cups of tea and served the two sisters. The witches drank greedily. Suddenly, their hands and feet grew into hooves, and their noses became snouts. They had transformed into goats! The ex-witches ran around the house making angry bleating noises. Finally, they ran out the house and were never seen written by the Reid Family again. The children then took Living on a farm with over the farm and lived hapfour older siblings, this 6th pily ever after. grade student is no stranger to The End. hard work or having fun. She enjoys participating in the township cleanup, playing piano, and doing announcements at school – although and everyone was hungry she is looking forward to when dinnertime finally ar- joining her older sister next rived. There might be as many year at a new school. She also as twenty hungry men. Oh, loves singing, dancing, hanghow I remember those meals. ing out with her friends, and The meat, the potatoes, the just having fun. And that’s vegetables, the gravy and, in how her journey with cadets particular, the pies. Pies of started. all sorts, apple, cherry, strawberry, raspberry, even maple sugar pies. The big meal was at dinnertime, but, even though it was "leftovers from dinner", supper was an excellent feast as well. Still, even today, I love “left-over’s”. (Wonder what I’d have to pay for a meal like that today?) We should never forget though, that it is through the efforts of our predecessors that we are where we are today. Reaping the rewards that parents and grandparents wanted us to have but, at the same time, I can understand when I hear an oldtimer say, “That’s not the way we used by John Baldwin to do it”. A Happy New Year to all my bird loving friends and their families. With the cold snap, over Christmas and the last few days of 2020, we have been treated to a very large flock of Red Polls at our feeders. They have shared our garden with some of our more permanent residents. I got outside and withstood the cold, for a while, to get
That’s not the way we used to do it! by Bob Porteous Remember when we used to have to go outside to go to the toilet? Maybe some of you who were raised in cities or towns never had to do that, but myself, being raised on a farm a "few" years ago, I sure did, and so did many of our neighbors. Many of us didn’t have electricity either. Anyway, I can remember that old “two-holer”, where the bumble bees and yellow jackets buzzed around you while you were trying to get out of there just as quickly as you could finish the paperwork. (Why did they have two-holers anyway? Did you have someone go to the bathroom with you?) Or maybe it was wintertime, and the temperature was lower than your pants, and certain parts of your body stuck to certain parts of the seat. Of course, if you could stand it, it was a good place to hide out, so you didn’t have to pump water to cool the milk. It sure made your sisters mad when you hid out. They had to go do the pumping. I’m glad we don’t do things like that anymore (pumping water that is, making your sisters mad is another story). Those were good times though. When neighbors helped neighbors. One of our neighbors had a threshing machine and travelled around the community threshing the January 13, 2021
grain or filling the silo. His grain or corn, of course, got done first, and then the other farms in order. Not sure how the order was determined, but we were usually the last. My dad was a very quiet, soft spoken man, so I suspect he did not push to be a priority. All the neighbors on the threshing list helped one another with the threshing. The men would bring their horses, wagons, pitchforks, and maybe even some of their older boys, to help with the gathering, loading, and transporting to the barn, filling the granary, and storing the straw. I remember how everyone looked forward to dinner (today it's called lunch), because the neighbourhood ladies had also gathered together to do the cooking. It was much like a potluck, except the food was all supplied by the family whose threshing was being done. Everyone worked hard,
The Voice of North Grenville
Just over a year ago, Aneka joined the Navy League Cadet Corps ASSINIBOINE in Kemptville so that she and a friend could spend more time together. She quickly found that cadets had more to offer than just a social gathering. Given her love of helping others, she was incredibly happy when she got to join her new corps in helping sort and organize food at the local area Food Bank. She also took it upon herself to learn a new skill – Semaphore
(signaling messages with flags) and quickly made the corps team. Together with her new friends, she spent several weeks preparing for competition: learning various knots and their functions, reviewing basic training and seamanship; but her favorite by far was Semaphore. She got to travel to Ottawa for a day of competition against other cadet corps from the Ottawa area in a variety of skills; an experience that everyone enjoyed. Although the COVID-19 pandemic prevented the Cadets from continuing to meet in person, Aneka persevered and, through virtual learning with the corps, was promoted to Able Cadet. She also continued to practice Semaphore at home and earned her Semaphore badge. Although she found it challenging to remember the positions with the ranks at first, she is now a lot better and moves in sync with the others whilst marching. This year, she continues to meet virtually with the other cadets, learning a variety of communications skills like Morse Code and is working on earning her Communications badge – awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in BOTH Semaphore and Morse Code. She is really enjoying Cadets so far, and is hoping that they can meet in person again soon.
Baldwin’s Birds
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some pictures of them as they fed. Quite a nice way to end the year even if we are still inhibited by the Covid 19 virus. Hopefully we don't have to wait too
long before it is all put behind us. Best wishes to all and stay safe.
the north grenville
TIMES Peter Peers Sales Manager
Phone 613 601 4080 Email: peterpeers@ndtimes.ca
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146 Prescott St. Kemptville Tues. to Fri. 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sat. & Sun. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
613-258-2630 28 Clothier Street East, Kemptville
The Cloudy Year Ahead
"Celebrating 60 years in business"
January 13, 2021
The Voice of North Grenville
There's no disputing that 2020 was a year to remember, or maybe a year to forget, depending on your perspective. One thing is certain about 2021, at first glance, it appears to be a year starting off with a cloud of uncertainty. Uncertainty doesn't necessarily have to be viewed using a negative lens. For this writer, it simply means that things that were going to happen over the coming year were previously easier to predict, and we felt had more control over what was coming. Now, we may not have those same feelings of control, but there are some positive indicators that we should take heart from. Already there are some positive signs that the year ahead could be one of significant progress, healing, and inspiring resiliency. One of those signs is that there are vaccines, and they’re now being distributed. Another is that our levels of government have worked very well together, despite their political differences and partisanship. Locally, in our business community, there is a renewed sense of optimism about the future, as eight new businesses moved into the downtown last year and two more have moved in since December 1. Maybe most impor-
tantly, we adapted to our collective situation by forming new partnerships and working together to overcome our shared challenges and to strengthen our community. By necessity, we were forced to be creative, and we came up with some clever ideas to both support our local business community, and to help residents feel a greater sense of connection to each other and pride in their community. This realization of the potential of our collective strength may be the single most critical takeaway for all of us as part of the pandemic. Many of the new events and activities that were developed for the downtown over the past year, which have delighted residents and given them both opportunities to connect with the downtown and each other, is as a direct result of new partnerships. The community Christmas tree in Rotary Park, the Facebook Live tree lighting ceremony (with Santa, a story reading by Library Sue etc.), the Ho Ho Home Decorating Contest, the Pumpkin Trail, and so much more, all manifested as a result of breaking new ground by working together. There are guaranteed to be some very difficult days ahead in 2021, but I feel more optimistic that we are now in a better position to handle what
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comes our way than we were twelve months ago. We showed ourselves that we can overcome, we can improvise, and that we can take a big hit, but we will
remain standing. As my uncle used to say, "it may be cloudy today, but the chance of a sunrise tomorrow is 100%".
Ho Ho Home Decorating Contest Winners
by Deron Johnston I hope everyone enjoyed some much-needed time off for the holidays! The judges have spoken and it's time to reveal the top 3 winners in the Ho Ho Home Decorating Contest. Here they are: 1st prize and the $100 Candian Tire Gift Card goes to: 26 Mountain Ash Drive. 2nd prize and the $50 Canadian Tire Gift Card goes to 874 Visiting Road. 3rd prize and the $25 Canadian Tire Gift Card goes to 42 Meadowglen Circle. On behalf of the Old Town Kemptville BIA and Canadian Tire Kemptville, we want to wholeheartedly thank everyone who took the time and energy to create such memorable home Christmas displays. It was a very difficult task to choose the top 3 winners. People were clearly motivated to make this year a special one. As well, judging by the number of people who checked out our google map of all of the displays, it was pretty obvious that many people enjoyed driving or walking around to see the many festive efforts. We received numerous social media mentions, messages and emails from residents saying how much they appreciated all of the decorating. People also remarked that it seemed like more houses, businesses and public spaces than ever were decorated for Christmas this year. We want to extend a special thank you to our contest volunteers who helped organize the contest, create the map and then make the difficult decision of trying to choose the winners. Of course, we can't say enough about Frank and Canadian Tire Kemptville for making this contest possible through their generosity and support. Take a bow everyone! Our community truly showed our resiliency and Christmas spirit this year! Best to all in 2021!
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Open For Business Support Local, now more than ever! Menu #44
613.860.2539 STORE HOURS
www.dialachef.ca
The delivery time in Ottawa is early afternoon, in the Kemptville area, mid afternoon. The cost of a meal is $23.50, the delivery is $5.00 per drop. HST extra. Order at the latest, the previous day.
Tuesday January 19
1- Spicy chicken tajine, with artichoke, courgettes and eggplant over mint scented couscous. 2- Artichoke, courgettes, eggplant and vegetable tajine, over mint scented couscous.
Wednesday January 20
1- IPA braised lamb pie, with mushrooms, onions and potatoes. Mixed green. 2- Winter green puff pie with mascarpone cheese, Mixed green
Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm
301 Rideau Street, Kemptville
613.258.3014
Snow Removal - Small Driveways, Walkways & Steps - Decks
Thursday January 21
1- Homemade pork sausage with winter mash and onion gravy. 2- Homemade vegetarian sausage with winter mash and onion gravy.
Friday January 22
1- Pan fried steelhead trout, peas and chorizo fricassé, steamed potatoes. 2- Peas and sun-dried tomato risotto with parmesan and pine nuts, Romaine heart salad.
Cold day?
Have s soup to go with your meal, 8oz, $5.00 plus HST. This week : Chunky creamy chicken soup. IN CELEBRATION OF ROBBIE BURNS DAY, Monday January 25, a special Scottish inspired meal. Cock a leeky soup, Home made haggis with whiskey sauce (vegetarian option available), Mash turnips and potatoes Taffy pudding, butterscotch sauce. $30.00 plus HST Sunday February 14, a special aphrodisiac food dinner. … Although if I cannot guaranty the results, I can guaranty a very good dinner.
Tues Jan 19th - Fri Jan 22nd Please Preorder the day before for the next day’s Curbside pick up.
Order & Pay online www.cateredaffairs.ca
613-324-3136
$37.50 Complete Meal for 2 + HST $70.00 Complete Meal for 4 + HST All Family meals include Chef’s choice of Soup OR salad, Appropriate Side Dishes & Dessert. Gift someone a “Night off from the kitchen”... Gift Certificates for Curbside meals are available!!
Jumbo Mozzarella Meatballs
All Beef Meatballs & Mozzarella in Marinara sauce with Creamy Alfredo Pasta, Garlic Bread, Vegetables & Salad
West Indian Curry Chicken & Roti
Boneless Chicken in mild curry sauce, Curry potato with chickpeas, My Mom’s West Indian style Roti, Rice, Housemade hot sauce & Salad
Red Thai Chicken Coconut Curry
Chunks of Chicken Breast braised in a Coconut Curry Sauce, Served with Cilantro Rice, Asian Noodle Salad, Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce, Vegetables, & Salad
Bulgogi Pork & Rice Bowl
Marinated, Sliced Center Cut Pork Loin, Served on Jasmine Rice with Shredded Vegetables, Cucumber, Scallions, Mint, Summer Rolls with Sriracha Aioli & Salad
French Onion Chicken
Red Wine Braised Chicken Breast, Topped with Caramelized Onions & Cheese, Croutons, Roasted Potatoes, Vegetables, & Salad
Robbie Burns Dinner Available Monday Jan 25th ONLY Haggis, Tatties & Neeps, Cock-a-leekie Soup & Tipsy Laird (trifle) Catered Affairs Take Home Valentine’s Day Menu Saturday Feb 13th & Sunday Feb 14th 12- 4pm
$75.00 per couple . Child size mac n cheese available $10.00 or $40 for 4
SOUP: Roasted Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato With Toasted Pepitas & Herb Oil SALAD: Heart Beet Salad With Local Greens, Pickled Beets, Pomegranate Pearls & Green Goddess Dressing MAIN EVENT: Choice of Herb roasted Beef Tenderloin (Gluten Free) for 2 With Cabernet Sauvignon Reduction. Served with Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Vegetable Medley Inside Out Chicken Cordon Bleu for 2 Juicy Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Ham, Cheese, Roasted Garlic Breadcrumbs & Creamy Dijon Sauce, Truffled Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Vegetable Medley Asparagus & Goat Cheese Flan (Vegetarian) (single portion available)
the north grenville
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info@cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136
Gord Logan
Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
January 13, 2021
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The Voice of North Grenville
A Very Sweet Donation to the WDMH Dialysis Unit in memory of Cathy. Some people even purchased peanut butter balls for WDMH staff. “We wanted to honour Cathy Burns, a wonderful lady, who gave so much for the community,” say Simply Baked co-owners Cheryl Beasley and Anne Carriere. They plan to repeat the fundraiser in March, 2022 to coincide with Kidney Month, and make it an annual event. “Cathy was an absolute gem and is dearly missed,” adds Cindy Peters, Manager of Direct Mail & Events. “I think this is a wonderful tribute to her, and I think she would love that she is still making a difference to her community. Thank you to Alan, the ladies at Simply Baked, and everyone who placed an order.”
At the outdoor presentation were (l-r): Cathy’s son Aaron Burns, her husband Alan Burns, Simply Baked employee Jess Stewart, and Simply Baked co-owners Cheryl Beasley and Anne Carriere.
by Jane Adams Cathy Burns was a longtime community volunteer in South Mountain, helping with everything possible – from Nationview Public School, to the South Mountain Fair. Whatever it was, Cathy was there to support it. Cathy was also an amazing baker. And her famous
peanut butter balls were well known throughout the area. Sadly, Cathy passed away in July, 2019 after a long illness. She had spent a lot of time at Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) having dialysis and her family wanted to give back to the hospital as thanks for the care she received. So, Cathy’s
husband Alan shared her long-held secret peanut butter ball recipe with Anne Carriere of Simply Baked Catering in Winchester. Then the Simply Baked team got to work. From a simple Facebook post in early December, they received orders for 63 dozen peanut butter balls – 756 in all – resulting in a $315 donation
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the north grenville
TIMES Gord Logan
Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca
SUPPORT LOCAL SAFELY LET'S SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES SAFELY BY SHOPPING ONLINE, CURBSIDE PICKUP, TAKEOUT, AND DELIVERY.
DON’S MEAT MARKET, ALMONTE
January 13, 2021
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