North Grenville’s Musical Instrument Lending Library opens
by David Shanahan
A new venture by the North Grenville Public Library is up and running every Saturday between 10am and 2 pm. The Musical Instrument Lending Library [MILL] musical instruments on loan to members, especially children and youth, in order to support accessible music education and build life skills through the love and practice of music.
At the official opening ceremony at its location in the W. B. George Centre on the Kemptville Campus,
North Grenville Public Library’s CEO, Emily Farrell, welcomed everyone and paid tribute to those who have helped make this addition to the library’s services possible.
“This MILL was made possible by financial support from the Municipality of North Grenville. We are extremely grateful for that. And it is also the vision of Herb Cloutier, we wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Herb. This was your dream and I’m very honored to be able to help you get it across the finishing line, and, on behalf of the North Grenville
Public Library, to be able to be part of this.”
Herb, also known around the region as Jamming Around Man, has been campaigning for the MILL for a long time, and, as Emily noted, it was his vision and dream to enable residents, especially young people, to have the opportunity of exploring music through making instruments freely available.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Leela Ramachandran, Project Manager, on behalf of Kemptville Campus, Mayor Peckford and Councillors
Wilson and O’Sullivan, as well as Kelvin Lee of the NGPL, along with a gathering of residents.
The MILL is located at the W. B. George Centre, and, if you have a library card, you can go directly there and take out an instrument on loan for up to three weeks. Loans, like books, can be renewed, if necessary. If you don’t have a library card, go to the library and they will make sure you get one. NGPL Membership Cards are free to residents, you just need to have identification with a current North Grenville address to show when you apply. A library membership card is valid for two years from the date of issue and entitles the cardholder to a full range of services and materials available from the North Grenville Public Library.
Instruments should be dropped off at the MILL, not the library itself.
The MILL has over 80 different instruments available to card-holders to borrow, including guitars, drums, keyboards, and brass, and is open on Saturdays, 10am – 2pm.
Discover the joy of music and start borrowing instruments today! For more information please visit the Musical Instrument Lending Library page: https://ngpl. ca/mill/
At the official opening of the MILL, left to right: Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan, Councillor Deb Wilson, Leela Ramachandran, Herb Cloutier, Mayor Nancy Peckford, Emily Farrell, and Kelvin Lee.
A perfect fall outing: Exploring
Merrickville’s Makers Market
In the heart of Eastern Ontario, tucked away amidst quaint streets and heritage buildings lining the historic Rideau Canal, lies a treasure cherished by locals and visitors alike – Merrickville’s Makers Market. Three times a year, this bustling event comes to life, offering a host of handmade treasures, culinary delights, and a sense of community spirit. The fall market is especially exciting for everyone, as it takes place outdoors, featuring over 60 local craftspeople!
One of the market's most delightful aspects is the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the creations. Conversations flow freely as visitors engage with makers, learning about their techniques, inspirations, and the stories woven into each piece. It's a chance to make connections and appreciate the artistry firsthand.
In addition to the artistic offerings, food vendors showcase a diverse array of treats. There's something to tantalize every palate, whether you're craving a gourmet snack or seeking the perfect gift for a food enthusiast.
For Merrickville, the Makers Market is more than just a marketplace; it's a tradition and a cornerstone of local identity. It provides a platform for artisans to showcase their talents, supports small businesses, and fosters a sense of pride in the town's cultural heritage. Moreover, it serves as a magnet for tourists, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the charm and hospitality found in our corner of the province.
Whether you're a seasoned shopper, a food enthusiast, or simply seeking a taste of authentic local culture, Merrickville’s Makers Market’s fall event promises an unforgettable experience – one that celebrates craftsmanship, community, and the simple joys of life.
Please join us at the Merrickville Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 7 from 10am to 4pm. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Friendship Lunch Committee donates $2,000 to CT Scanner Campaign
by Lynne Clifford-Ward
The Friendship Lunch Committee recently made a $2,000 donation to the CT Scanner Crossroads Campaign. The Friendship Lunch Program has been running for over forty years from September to June, and twice a month during July and August. Each lunch averages 80-100 participants and is a way to provide food, fun, and friendship every Friday.
Presently held at St. John’s United Church, 400 Prescott Street, Kemptville, it is open to anyone in the community at no charge. A donation box is available. Dedicated volunteers from five groups help make this program happen and include parishioners from St. James Anglican Church, Kemptville Pentecostal Church, Holy Cross Catholic Church, St. John’s United Church as well as the House of Lazarus.
Kemptville Male choir looking for members
by John Baldwin
The donation to the KDH Foundation represents “free will” offerings from the lunch participants.
Joanne Mavis, Executive Director of the Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) Foundation said she was thrilled to receive this donation to the CT Scanner Campaign. “We are very grateful for this wonderful gift from the community. We know that the CT Scanner will benefit all of us with a
quicker diagnosis and treatment, closer to home.”
The KDH Foundation is one of three recipients of the Friendship Lunch Committee’s generosity, which includes the House of Lazarus and the Salvation Army. For more information and stories about the CT Scanner Crossroads Campaign and how you can donate, see Kemptville District Hospital Foundation: kdhfoundation.ca.
The Kemptville Male choir is now in the process of making a slight re-adjustment following the recent loss to retirement, and a change of circumstances, for both our Director and our Accompanist. However, these two positions have now been filled and a new era is about to begin, when we all gather to start a new season together, starting on Tuesday, 3 September at 7.00pm (1900)- 9pm (2100) at St John’s United Church, Kemptville.
To aid us in this endeavour, we are also hoping to be able to boost our own physical numbers i.e membership, at the same time. Our numbers have, unfortunately, dwindled down to below 20, and to keep a good balance in each choir section, we would like to recruit new members now, so that the transition we are about to go through is achieved as smoothly as possible.
Please Gentlemen, if you have any aspirations to sing in any way, whatever you may think about your own voice, come along and join us. Our music is provided, so don’t let your inhibitions stand in the way. None of us can claim to be experts and many of us don’t even read music, but when we sing we make a great sound.
We are a friendly group of guys who just enjoy singing and get chances to do so by visiting retirement residences and singing at other events. The very appreciation of the Senior Residence members is inspiration enough for us to go back and tackle some more songs, so that we can return , once again, with fresh material. That way, no one gets bored and it’s a “win-win”situation all round, especially for ourselves.
If you feel that you would like to sing with us, and need more information, then please don’t hesitate to contact myself, or any of the choir committee members.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our weekly practices.
Thanks on behalf of the Kemptville Male Choir.
THOMAS M. BYRNE
John Baldwin (Singing isn’t just for the birds!), 613-258-0835; Chris Morgan, 613258-7559; Don Krull, 613-784-9967; Howie Godwin, 613-898-1171; Jim Comtois, 613252-9576.
Friendship Lunch Committee and friends
Idiot wind
by David Shanahan
When I first saw the video, I thought it was pretty cheesy and the narration was really forced and rang false. Then I read about the background to it, and I was convinced that it had to be one of those AI fakes, designed to discredit those portrayed in it. But, no: it was genuine, or at least as genuine as such an unlikely piece of political campaign propaganda could be.
Have you seen it, the Conservatives’ “Canada, Our Home” video which was released and then deleted almost before anyone could see it? Poor pasty Pierre Poilievre’s pathetic political posturing. I might not normally comment negatively about someone’s appearance, but as this video was designed to further rehabilitate Poilievre’s image, it seemed appropriate to point out how strange he looked. I mean, that hat!
I know he was speaking at the Calgary Stampede, but there are people who can carry off a Stetson or ten-gallon hat, whatever it was, but Pierre really isn’t one of them. He just looked - what’s the current
term - weird, that’s it - he just looked weird. The script he was reading was so artificial, and obviously designed to link up the video clips, that it didn’t flow. It was not natural. But then, neither were the film clips, it seems.
The clips were meant to show typical Canadian scenes of families, scenery, outdoor meals together, but it was soon pointed out that there was something not right about the whole thing.
The scene of a “Canadian dad” driving through the suburbs was actually stock footage from North Dakota in the United States; a clip of children attending class was shot in Serbia; the “Canadian-built” homes were under construction in Slovenia, and a university student “late for class” was filmed at a post-secondary institution in Ukraine.
A scene in which a child walks with her grandparents was shot in London’s Richmond Park, and a family gathering where the group enjoy “a wonderful venison that was shot with totally legal Canadian firearms” was filmed in Italy. A scene of Alberta’s foothills to the Rocky Mountains was a clip from Indonesia. Cattle grazing in a vast field was filmed
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor
With the recent reports of a positive human case West Nile Virus in Ottawa and OPH reports have confirmed first positive mosquito testing pool by lab results, is the use of ponds for stormwater management best practice? With large ponds of water that can remain stagnant for weeks or months, mosquitos lay eggs in this water. A female mosquito lays 200-300 eggs many times during her life span. Mosquitoes are carriers of West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus, rare in humans, Dengue Fever - yes this is a subtropic disease, but it has been reported locally in Florida and, since 2010, locally acquired cases reported in Europe, including France, Portugal, and Croatia. Remember what we were told about Ticks and Lyme Disease: it was a problem in warmer areas, its too cold in Canada, they won't come here. Well, here we are. We have Ticks and Lyme Disease, so anything is possible. North Grenville has many natural mosquito breeding ponds. Do we need to add manmade ponds? I can't imagine living near one of theses ponds, the bugs must be bad. Before any more of these ponds are created an attempt to find a better way to manage storm water should be made.
in California. The scenes of a sunset, overlaid with the words “We’re Home”, was shot in Venezuela.
Most disturbing was the clip of two fighter jets sweeping across the sky, which Pierre described as “doing a training mission in the sky, getting ready to defend our home and native land”. In fact, the planes were Russian fighters, identified by the Canada’s Defense Minister as an SU-17 and an SU-27. That was bad enough, but it was followed by a clip of a student looking up at the jets flying over. The actual university student was at a campus in Kyiv in Ukraine, where students don’t smile when they see Russian jets overhead.
There’s an interesting clip of a family having a meal outside together, apparently, says Pierre, celebrating that one of the sons is clean and sober after addiction. But the table is full of wine bottles and glasses full of wine. Not what you’d expect in the circumstances.
But Pierre goes on (that hat!) to proclaim: “These are our people. This is our country! This is our home. Your home, my home, our home. Let’s bring it home!” Eh, only, it isn’t. At the start
of the video, he says: “It’s easy to forget what home and hope look like”. It seems he has forgotten all right.
Now, don’t think this is just a partisan attack on a really bad piece of political propaganda. I have no allegiance to any political party in this country (or in any others that may be featured in the video). It’s just that Poilievre has been trying so hard to improve his image: nice haircut, dump the glasses, try and smile more (on the other hand, maybe don’t smile, it also looks strange, and the voice is a little like fingernails on a chalkboard in tone). This video not only makes him look very false and trying too hard to be folksy; it is also incredibly incompetent in its entire content and script. Really bad, and that hat!
So, for the sake of balance, here’s something about Justin, someone else who seems to be more style than substance. I understand why Canadian politicians look with envy at the Democrats and their convention. So many incredible orators, so moving and powerful, managing to look like caring and devoted citizens out to do the best for their country. That may not be the true story, but
they pull off the image thing, and Justin and Pierre would give so much to be able to get away with that too.
Justin might, eh, try hard to, eh, sound like, eh, one of the boys, eh, but, eh, he doesn’t. There is one example in the Excited States he could follow, and everyone, especially in his own party, would love him to do so. Do a Joe Biden, love your coun-
try more than your job and step aside and give someone else a chance, before it’s too late. Just don’t make a video. If you’re interested, Pierre’s video, and hat, can be viewed here: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=fPFNKvM06fU
Before we follow Ottawa down the road of costly larvicidal treatments to their storm water ponds to prevent the spread of mosquito borne disease.
I am sure many residents of North Grenville would agree with this. We don't need this extra cost.
D Lewis
Dear Editor,
I have been a supporter of Amnesty International for many years. Human rights are high on my list of priorities. From a newsletter from Amnesty is the following:
“The pipeline has already caused environmental destruction and cut the Wet’suwet’en people off from their ancestral territory. Land defenders who take action to stop the pipeline have been surveilled, intimidated, and arrested. Now, several of them face criminal charges and possibly prison time. Indigenous people are stewards of natural ecosystems that mitigate against the climate change. Indigenous land defenders across eth Americas are facing unprecedented danger for defending their territories against extractive projects. Canada should be protecting them, instead of prosecuting them.”
From another book from our very important public library, entitled “When you care”, by Elissa Strauss: “I reflected on what it meant to be a good person, to both the person in front of me and the world around me. I considered what it meant to believe a divine force created the world, and what our role is in the act of creation.
“Caregiving has been a transcendent experience that has challenged me and enlightened me, while going straight to the heart of what it means to be human. The human mind is too wondrous and expansive to have evolved on its own. We must (Alfred Russel Wallace, 1869) admit the possibility that in the development of the human race, a Higher Intelligence has guided the same laws for nobler ends. Something else, something bigger than nature, had placed within our neurons and cortexes and synapses a special sauce, the source of goodness and love.
“Religion pushes us to grapple with the mysteries of life, and suffering, rejoicing, despairing and hoping is all part of the process. Caregivers experience madness, doubt, and rawness, alongside communion and direction, suffering and hope forever intertwined.”
Also, thanks for “Yester-
day”. I also think I had that same book of Grimm’s Fairy Tales with the green cover and lovely illustrations. I loved that book!
Kathy Piché
613 329 0209
North Grenville Council update
by Brandon Mayer
The regularly scheduled August 14 meeting of North Grenville’s Council was unusual in that neither Mayor Nancy Peckford and Deputy Mayor John Barclay were present. Councillor Kristin Strackerjan chaired the meeting, and was therefore temporarily designated as Acting Deputy Mayor. The meeting opened with a presentation regarding Overdose Awareness Day. The presentation was given by Isabella Rinman, who is a case manager and addictions counsellor with Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental
Health.
The presentation was intended to highlight the high problem of overdoses in Ontario. Shockingly, Isabella reported that overdoses now claim more lives than car accidents and homicides in this province. One the goals of LLGAMH is to reduce the stigma on this issue, and increase compassion for the circumstances leading to substance use. Others spoke about this issue as well, including Rick Baker, who announced that a Community Resource Day will be held on September 14 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre to promote the idea of a “Compassionate Com-
munity, including a charter to give residents information on services available if they are struggling with addiction or related issues”.
Next, the Municipality’s Deputy Director of Planning and Development, Philip Mosher, discussed Resolution C-2023-196. This resolution “was carried April 18, 2023 to direct staff to 1) Identify unnecessary hurdles to residential infill and intensification within the Municipality’s Zoning Standards, including but not limited to, density, parking and lot coverage; and 2) To prepare a report with recommendations on improved zoning standards that are supportive of residential infill and intensification.
Deputy Director Mosher explained the progress staff have made in preparing the amending by-law.
Amy Martin, Director of Planning and Development, then provided a presentation on a draft plan of subdivision for 210 Van Buren Street. Mayor Peckford – who was not able to attend the meeting due to a train delay – patched into the meeting virtually to ask Director Martin some questions about the recreational amenities that form part of the plan, particularly who
club
like in their community.
by Brandon Mayer
I love my community. Dare I add a “duh”? There is a reason I applied for a reporter job with the two local Times newspapers in 2021, despite already having a mountain of commitments and responsibilities as a local educator and mental health counsellor. More than 3 years later, I don’t regret my decision at all.
It is often said that those who take far too negative of an approach would “catch more flies with honey than vinegar”. This is true! The benefits of positivity and optimism cannot be overstated, particularly in the world we currently live in. However, there are cases when vinegar is more fitting than honey. Sometimes it seems like vinegar is taboo in North Grenville.
What I mean to say, in less cryptic terms, is that in a tight-knit place like North Grenville, residents take their lives into their hands when daring to speak about something they don’t
It’s as though anything that isn’t “fluffy talk” must be banned. Admitting that your amazing community isn’t perfect – since nothing is perfect – shouldn’t be considered a crime of the highest order, punishable by ostracization.
It seems that all small, tightly woven communities are the same in this regard. My first apartment was in Winchester, where I very quickly made a blunder. I grew up in a place where recyclables were collected bi-weekly at the road in mixed containers. Winchester’s recycling at the time was bi-weekly, but the containers and cardboard had to be separated, as is now common practice. One week, when I put the recycling at the curb, I put the cardboard bin down with the containers bin over top. I then flattened a large box and put it on the containers bin at the top of the stack. My recycling load was rejected for “mixed” recyclables. I was annoyed, because I had taken the time
will have control over the design and maintenance of a play structure that would be constructed. The motion for the resolution to proceed was passed.
Those familiar with the procedural aspects of Council’s work would perhaps have found the meeting interesting, because when the Mayor patched in, she needed to route her comments through Acting Deputy Mayor Strackerjan, who was chaired the meeting. Normally, the Mayor is the Chair, and all comments between individuals in the room are routed through her.
Other planning issues were discussed at the meeting, including a zoning bylaw amendment request, and the addition of a formal pedestrian crossing in downtown Kemptville. The latter request from Municipal staff was regarding an existing project, and required Council to approve a budget increase for increased safety additions.
The meeting adjourned after less than two hours. There were no upcoming meetings yet added to the Municipal schedule as of the time of writing.
to research the local rules, and meticulously separated containers and recyclables.
In a moment that I have since regarded as pure stupidity, I took to the local Facebook page. I don’t remember exactly what I wrote, but it was just honest feelings. I was upset that what I thought was an obvious flat piece of cardboard on top of my containers bin was considered mixed with my containers bin.
It was less than an hour before I had to take the post down. I was absolutely ostracized, ridiculed, and shamed for complaining about the local garbage collection. It seemed like everyone took it personally, as though I struck a nerve you simply can’t touch. How dare I? To my memory, I wasn’t even complaining, I was just asking how strict the workers are, and how best to guarantee everything gets picked up in the future. At points, the comments got personal. I learned a lot that day, primarily about how to “fit in” to my community and not be seen as
an outsider. Yes, there are imperfect things in small communities, including in North Grenville, but we don’t talk about them. The first rule of fight club is that you don’t talk about fight club.
What actually inspired these musings was the fact that an area railway crossing that I pass twice a day on my commute to and from work was just repaired. The repair schedule got somewhat muddled and I held my tongue. The signage was inadequate and led to me having to make an unnecessary u-turn on two separate occasions (yes, inadequate coffee may also be partially responsible), but I
held by tongue. The third and final straw was when the crossing was finally reopened and branded as “repaired”, only to have me nearly take my suspension off trying to drive over it! I know these crews are under a lot of pressure, and no, I couldn’t have done a better job myself, but isn’t honesty the best policy? Shouldn’t we be able to say “yep, the crossing was repaired but
they didn’t do the best job this time around” without being worried about the first rule of fight club?
I love our local area, and I’m all about strong community pride, but open discussions matter too. Instead of trying to make pickles with a jar of honey, let’s stop being afraid of vinegar.
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Back to school not just for kids: How to prepare for adult skills upgrading
by ABC Life Literacy Canada
While the back-toschool season is typically associated with children returning to classrooms, it also represents an important opportunity for adults who want to upgrade their skills.
With so many literacy organizations, libraries and community centres ramping up their offerings, September is ripe with resources, programs and a renewed focus on education that can greatly benefit adult learners.
Having strong literacy skills can vastly improve the outcomes of Canadians. Without strong literacy skills, an employee’s prospects of progressing up the ladder at work are limited, and they’re less able to succeed in the workplace.
According to UNESCO, adults with low literacy skills have incomes that largely flatline through their careers. Conversely, individuals with higher levels of education typically see their income rise to two or three times higher than what they earned at the beginning of their careers.
Additionally, Canadians with low literacy are more than twice as likely to experience unemployment than those with higher levels. Adults with low levels of literacy often have difficulty securing housing, rely more heavily on social assistance, and are more likely to find themselves incarcerated.
For some adults, the thought of skills upgrading can be daunting due to previous negative experiences with school. However, many
adult literacy programs designed for adults are tailored to be supportive and accommodating. Free programming, flexible scheduling and dedicated support services help to mitigate barriers, making education more accessible.
For those looking to upgrade their skills this fall, ABC Life Literacy Canada offers the following tips:
- Identify your goals: What is your purpose for upgrading your skills? Are you looking to enhance specific skills, obtain a high school diploma, or change jobs? Understanding your goals will help you select a program that aligns with them.
- Do your research: Investigate various adult literacy and skills upgrading programs. Look for ones that offer the resources, flexibility and support you need. Consider factors such as program length, format (online vs. in-person) and reputation. Visit LookUnderLearn. ca for a searchable list of academic upgrading programs in your town.
- Consider your schedule: Opt for programs that
offer flexibility, such as evening, weekend or online classes. This can make it easier to balance your studies with work and family responsibilities.
- Communicate with family and employers: Keep your family and employer informed about your educational goals and commitments. Their understanding and support can be invaluable, and they may be willing to offer flexibility to accommodate your studies.
- Practice self-care: Balancing multiple responsibilities can be stressful. Ensure you take time for self-care, including regular exercise, adequate sleep and relaxation. Maintaining your physical and mental health is crucial for staying productive and focused.
“This time of year, when everyone is thinking about children heading back to school, there’s a large cohort of adults who are also taking steps to improve their lives,” says Alison Howard, Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada. “By investing in upgrading their literacy skills, adults can
achieve personal growth, improve their career prospects and engage in lifelong learning. The back-to-school season is a reminder that learning is a continuous journey, beneficial at all stages of life.”
To access free adult literacy programs and resources and begin your skills upgrading journey, visit abclifeliteracy.ca.
ABC Life Literacy Canada is a national charitable organization that champions literacy by empowering adult learners, raising
VOLUNTEERING
awareness, and supporting the adult learning sector. We develop and support the use of foundational learning materials and help to build the capacity of the sector by convening and connecting the adult literacy community, and advocating for skills programming. We envision a Canada where everyone has the skills and opportunities to fully participate in learning, life, and work. For more information about literacy in Canada and ABC Life Literacy Canada’s programs, visit abclifeliteracy.ca.
Rise in bank investigator frauds in East Region
The OPP continues to receive reports from victims who have been contacted by fraudsters claiming to be bank investigators from their financial institution, local law enforcement or one of their online merchants.
Fraudsters may ask the for the victim's assistance in an ongoing "investigation" against criminals who compromised the victim's accounts. They ask the victim to deposit or send funds overseas. It is not until transfers are completed that the victim realizes that their accounts had not been compromised.
Fraudsters will convince victims to send an Interac e-transfer transaction to their own cellphone number. The suspect will instruct the victim on the steps required to add themselves as a payee and to increase their daily Interac e-transfer limit to $10,000 (note that the maximum amount that a sender may send through the Interac e-transfer network may vary depending on the sender's financial institution. Interac will automatically refuse to complete any payment by a sender above the limit established by the financial institution).
The suspect provides the e-transfer question and answer that the victim must use for the transfer. Once the victim sends the Interac e-transfer transaction to their own cellphone number, suspects will ask the victim for a "code" which is the last portion of the Interac e-transfer URL/link received. If the victim provides the URL, suspects will have the ability to deposit the funds into their own account.
In some cases, suspects are able to provide some of the victim's personal information which might include name, date of birth, phone number, address and debit card number to make the call seem legitimate.
Additionally, suspects are spoofing financial institution phone numbers or are providing fraudulent call-back phone numbers which impersonate the financial institution.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), bank investigator frauds represented $10.2 million in reported losses in 2023. Ontario victims reported losing more than $5.4 million. It is estimated that only five to 10 per cent of victims report frauds to the CAFC or law enforcement.
Warning Signs - How to Protect Yourself Financial institutions or online merchants will never request you to transfer funds to an external account.
If you get a call claiming to be from your financial institution, advise the caller that you will call them back. End the call and dial the number on the back of your bank or credit card from a different phone if possible or wait 10 minutes before making the outgoing call.
Fraudsters use call-spoofing technology to mislead victims. Do not assume that phone numbers appearing on your call display are accurate.
Never provide remote access to your computer or smart phone.
If you or someone you know suspect they have been a victim of fraud, report it to your local police service and to the CAFC at 1-888-495-8501 or online on the Fraud Reporting System (FRS), even if a financial loss did not occur.
Friday Figure Drawing in Kemptville
The Friday Drawing Circle is starting again on Friday, September 13 and it is open to anyone, 14 years and older, who likes to draw regardless of experience. Each Friday there will be a different clothed model. Free drawing lessons will also be provided prior to the session. You can sign up for lessons by contacting Jayne Couch at Jayne@ jcouchmolony.ca
Time: September 13 to December 13, 2024 (no session on October 11 or November 29) 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: St. John’s United Church, 400 Prescott Street, Kemptville Ontario
Cost: $120 for 12 weeks or $15 drop-in fee For more information or to register, contact Jennifer Gow at gowjb5@gmail.com
Paint a chair Purple
There is still time to paint a chair in recognition International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31. The Empty Chair Campaign is about raising awareness of overdose and reducing the stigma of drug related death. During the last two weeks of August, paint a chair purple and place it at your front door, or in your yard. The empty chair is a visible representation in remembrance of someone who has lost their life through overdose/addiction and is missing from their family table.
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Back to school reminders from the OPP
Watch For Kids, Buses and Don't 'Overshare'
It's that time again - excited kids will be on the streets and so will school buses. Drivers - Keep your eyes on the road ahead and NOT ON YOUR PHONE. Watch for young people walking or biking to and from school and be prepared for those big yellow buses to be making frequent stops.
Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop
Red flashing lights and the "stop" arm mean you MUST stop
Give school buses extra room on the roadway
Slow down and use extra caution when traveling through school zones
Watch for and obey crossing guards. They are there to help protect kids
Passing a stopped school bus, with its red lights flashing, puts young lives at risk AND means a fine of $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points for a first offence. Parents - Remind your kids about safety rules when it comes to getting on and off buses, or to always use sidewalks and crosswalks if they are available.
Sharing first day photos - Those first day pics are great to share with family and friends on social media, BUT criminals can use the opportunity to harvest information from these posts. Play it safe:
Remove any mention of the particular school
Remove age and grade information
Ensure your privacy settings are set properly
Ensure your post is only being shared with friends you know
Let's all accept the shared responsibility to make the beginning of the school year a safe and fun event.
You are also invited to bring your chair to Beth Donovan Hospice for a Memorial Gathering on Thursday, August 29, 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM to be included in a memorial display in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day.
To Participate:
1. Paint a chair
2. Display the chair in your garden, yard or favourite location.
3. Share a photo on social and use hashtags
Soul Blues great Jeff Rogers ends the Street Piano series with a blast!
When Jeff Rogers decided to pull out all the stops and record his latest solo album, Dream Job, in the legendary town of Muscle Shoals in Alabama, he did everything right. With a house band of famous musicians including Kelvin Holly (Little Richard, Bobby Bland), Clayton Ivey (The Staple Sisters, Thelma Houston), Justin Holder (Keb Mo’, Delbert McClinton) and Shonna Tucker (Booker T. Jones, Drive-By-Truckers), Rogers’s piano playing and unmistakably soulful voice shines the way they should. Made of Rogers’ Soul Blues-style originals, the album features Grammy Award winner Colin Linden, Juno Award-winning singer
Kellylee Evans, and is coproduced by Dick Cooper of The Cooper Brothers.
With a voice that evokes weighty comparisons to the past (Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, or even Otis Redding), serious blues piano chops, and an album nominated for the Soul Blues Album of The Year at the 17th Annual Blues Blast Music Awards in the U.S., Rogers is at the top of his game. Catch him at the Kemptville Street Piano on August 31st for our last concert of the season and hear what the fuss is about.
What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents Who? Soul Blues Artist Jeff Rogers When? Saturday August
31, 1pm
Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace
How much? Free! (Cash donations welcome, or see the featured section on our FB page for the link to our GoFundMe campaign.)
Learn more about Jeff Rogers here: https://jeffrogers.ca/about.
What is a Street Piano? It’s a piano placed in a public area that encourages passersby to stop and play.
Why a Street Piano? Who is it for? Street Pianos draw pedestrians, turning any location into a concert venue / cultural hub. By giving residents an instrument to play together, this project encourages locals to share their knowledge, initiate their own ‘play’, and create relationships, setting a precedent for positive experiences in Kemptville’s public spaces and inviting foot traffic to downtown businesses. Learn more about street pianos at http://www.streetpianos. com.
The series is graciously funded by the Municipality of North Grenville and the Government of Canada. Check the Kemptville Street Piano Facebook page for regular updates on all things Street Piano, including con-
cert details and access to the Street Piano calendar. www.facebook.com/KemptvilleStreetPiano.
@ExploreNorthGrenville #LoveNG #RediscoverOntario #Kemptville #NorthGrenville @oldtownkemptville
Does your business go further than North Grenville?
Advertise in our sister paper The North Dundas Times! Contact Nanda! Marketing Consultant Email: nanda@ndtimes.ca
Como, William “Donald”
Peacefully at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital on Monday August 19, 2024. Donald Como age 81 of Oxford Mills. Loving brother of Jean Jackson and brother-in-law of Anna & Joan Como. Cherished uncle of many nieces, nephews, greatnieces and great-nephews. Predeceased by his parents Joseph Sr and Winnifred (Summerfield) and his siblings Joe, Wayne, Linda and Larry. A Visitation will be held at the Byers Funeral Home, 2990 Church Street, South Mountain (613989-3836) on Friday August 23, 2024 from 10 a.m. until time of Funeral Service in the Chapel at 11 a.m. Interment Oxford Mills Anglican Cemetery. Donations in Memory of Donald may be made to the Spencerville TNR.
If you are making your donation online or by cheque directly to the charity, please include the following note with your gift “please notify the family”. Online condolences may be shared at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
Baskin-Robbins adds support to BGC Canada
Baskin-Robbins, the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, expands its partnership with BGC Canada (formerly Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada) with the sponsorship of four scholarships helping eligible Canadian students invest in their post-secondary education. The recipients of the first round of scholarships, which are part of the ice cream brand’s Pink Spoon Community Program, are Chad from Toronto, Mahad from Ottawa, Jett from North Simcoe and Katie from Stettler, Alberta. Each student will receive $4,000 to help them on their path to academic success.
“A solid education is a critical element in life,” says Natalie Joseph, spokesperson for Baskin-Robbins in Canada. “We’ve been honoured and privileged to work with BGC Canada over the years and this expansion is a testament to our belief in their work and
the importance of investing in young people. Congratulations to each of the recipients.”
The first four recipients receiving funds from BaskinRobbins are affiliated with Clubs in both Ontario and Alberta.
From BGC Ottawa, Mahad is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Carlton University.
“I am very grateful to be one of the recipients of the scholarship provided by Baskin-Robbins. This scholarship will ease the financial burden of attending post-secondary.”
Across Canada, students are getting ready to begin a new, more costly academic year. A recent study by Statista suggests that the cost of a post-secondary education has grown – an increase of *close to 3 percent in 2023 in tuition fees alone.
“The students have shared
with us how excited, happy and relieved they are to receive this gift,” says Brooke Duval, Senior Director, Partnerships & Philanthropy at BGC Canada. “It is so rewarding to work with organizations like BaskinRobbins on programs that truly make a difference.”
Through its Pink Spoon Community Program, BaskinRobbins has been a partner of BGC Canada for the past seven years. The partnership includes an annual in-shop fundraiser and in-kind ice cream donations.
For more information on Baskin-Robbins Canada and its community programs and support we invite you to visit baskinrobbins.ca or follow the company on Facebook, X, TikTok and Instagram or view this partnership video here: https:// vimeo.com/999209153/3e1fdf 3c48?share=copy
RIVERSIDE PARK: Traditional Site for Fairs and Fun
by David Shanahan
The improvements that have been made to Riverside Park over the past few years, thanks to municipal initiatives and community donations and support, have underlined how central the park has been to this community for almost 140 years.
The land that is now Riverside Park was originally part of a 200-acre parcel granted to Ensign Elijah Bottom for his services to the Crown during the American War of Independence. He was one of the very few United Empire Loyalists whose family actually settled on the land they had been given, and Elijah's son built a house, now 319 Clothier Street West, where he settled on his large estate and took to calling himself "Squire" Bottom. When the Village of Kemptville separated from Oxford-on-Rideau Township in 1857, Bottom's land was at first included in the new municipality. But he quickly moved to have his property remain outside the Village, possibly because of lower taxes in the Township. This meant that the western boundary of Kemptville was very close to the centre of the village, running along that part of Reuben Street that separates the High School from Riverside Park.
So, the parkland was never settled and remained a green space just outside the village limits, until the Kemptville Agricultural Society was founded and leased part of the property between the river and the village from Squire Bottom's son in 1887. The Society were allowed to erect stables and other buildings for their activities, as well as a race track. Riverside Park, as it became known, became the venue for Dominion Day events, the an-
the Park, and all co-operated in running Fairs and Parades and Band Concerts there.
The Park continued to be developed, with a covered ice rink and landscaping added to the facilities. In 1921, a Tennis and Bowling Club was organised in Kemptville, and new tennis courts and a bowling green was laid out in the Park.
Building stronger ties between municipalities and farmers
ideas and concerns and reinforce the importance of our sector to our municipal representatives, building new relationships as well as building on existing ones.
nual Kemptville Fair every June, and sporting events of all kinds. In 1902, the Kemptville Council bought the Park outright from the Bottom family and compensated the Agricultural Society for the improvements they had made there. It was decided that the Village and the Society would share the cost of building a grandstand, accommodating 500 people, and would share also in the proceeds over the years. In return for running an Agricultural Exhibition for at least three years, the Society were granted a 30year lease on the Park.
The purchase of Riverside Park by Kemptville caused a great deal of annoyance in Oxford-onRideau, where the Council demanded that the Village pay them full property taxes on the land. Arguments were raised on both sides, and it was even considered that the Park might be annexed to Kemptville. The solution was found in 1905, when, by a public vote of taxpayers in Kemptville, a Parks Commission was established under the Public Parks Act, whose mandate was to operate the park for the community, with a strict limit on expenditures of tax money. This also helped to settle disputes between the Village and the Agricultural Society over profit sharing from the Grandstand. Kemptville also agreed to pay property taxes on the Park to the Township of Oxford-on-Rideau, and the future of the Park was put on a firm foundation. Opponents of the Parks Commission had referred to the Park as "useless", but the Parks Commission set to work to change that. Riverside Park was the venue for so many events in the following decades. Trap racing was extremely popular and the regional schools, agricultural societies, and social organisations used it for their activities. Dominion Day celebrations were centred on
In June, 1931, Reeve R. A. Patterson pointed out to the Kemptville Council that a newly established grant was available from the Ontario Government to support Community Parks in the Province. The grants were established, and probably brought to Patterson's attention, by one of his predecessors as Reeve: Premier G. Howard Ferguson. With the added financial input, a new running track was laid out in the Park, as well as other improvements. The old stables and sheds were replaced by new stables and a kitchen, and a judge's stand was built near the main grandstand, which was extended. That same year a sign was set up at the corner of Prescott and Reuben (then Victoria) Streets to direct visitors to the Park, where a new entrance was built.
A softball park was laid out in the mid-1950's, opening up another activity in the Park. Ever since, leagues have played in the Park from all over North Grenville and even further afield. The Rotary Club provided play structures, and the Swimming Pool was a great addition to the facilities provided for the community. In the late 1960's, Council drew up plans for a complete overhaul of Riverside Park. All in all, it was a dramatic and ambitious plan for Riverside Park, but one which was too expensive and failed to gain sufficient support.
But now, we’ve seen new plans with new visions brought to life, and the park will continue to be,as it has been for 140 years, the centre of public celebrations in North Grenville. One hundred and twelve years ago, it was purchased for the use and benefit of the people of Kemptville. Dominion Days, Canada Days, Kemptville Fairs, Tournaments, Concerts, Fireworks and Races: Riverside Park has seen them all and now embraces a vibrant future.
by Ethan Wallace, Executive Member, OFA
The latest statistics just released by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness show the tremendous impact the agri-food sector, which includes farming, agricultural processing, retail and food service, has on the provincial economy.
It contributed $50.7 billion to the provincial economy, provided jobs to 11 per cent of Ontario’s work force and generated exports worth $26.2 billion this past year. That makes food and farming a big deal in the provincial economy and underscores the value farming and agricultural manufacturing, processing and services can bring to a community.
This week is the annual conference of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario – and Ontario’s farmers will be well represented at the event. That’s because so many of the issues affecting farmers and rural communities are actually the responsibility of our municipal governments.
A great example of this is land use planning. The Provincial Policy Statement provides the guidance and sets the baseline, but it is individual municipalities who are responsible for implementation, such as increasing population density, attracting industrial development and protecting the farmland the agri-food sector depends on.
My family and I are dairy farmers near the town of Seaforth in Huron County, about an hour north of London. I’m also an Executive Member on the OFA board and will be one of the organization’s representatives at the AMO conference.
This will be my first time attending the AMO event. This conference offers a great opportunity to have discussions, share
Many people talk about the urban-rural divide, but to me, it’s more of a symbiotic relationship than a divide. We need each other to thrive, and if we can work together on common goals, we can build more homes and expand our agri-food processing while still ensuring we have the farmland that we need. By encouraging more agricultural manufacturing and processing in our province, for example, we’d be able to expand our exports of value-added products and keeping that economic activity right here at home.
Farmers often times are required to prioritize their activities and as farm policy advocates we are no different. We continue to talk to municipal, provincial and federal leaders about important issues that Ontario farmers are facing.
Municipal challenges range from increasing property taxes, to stormwater management, emergency services and drainage concerns. Provincially we’re focused on the Provincial Planning Statement, conservation authority mapping, hydro generation and corridor expansion and fair and adequate treatment for farmers facing expropriation and other land related concerns.
Our Federal work has focused on rail corridor issues, both around drainage and private crossings, labour shortages across the industry and the impact of changes to capital gains legislation on farm members and family farm corporations.
Other priorities we’ll be highlighting with municipal and provincial
representatives during the conference:
Improving rural infrastructure and services: Growing agri-food businesses in rural Ontario means more revenue and investment to improve transportation, affordable energy, broadband internet, and access to social services such as schools, health care and community centers.
Housing affordability and long-term land use planning: Growing the agri-food sector means committing to farmland preservation, smart growth in our urban centers, and ensuring the farm and environmental lands we depend on for local food production and healthy communities are protected. Affordable housing helps attract and keep workers and first-time home buyers and offers growth opportunities for our communities.
Improving rural economic development and community health: Increasing agritourism and local food offerings in our communities means more people participating in healthy outdoor activities, learning where their food comes from, improving their mental health and wellbeing, and increasing their connection to the food, flowers, fibre and fuel grown right here in Ontario.
The creation of the Ministry of Rural Affairs means an additional voice at the provincial cabinet table, and the strong connection between agriculture, rural affairs and municipalities is undeniable.
Thank you to everyone, whether urban or rural, who supports Ontario products by buying what we produce and grow. We appreciate your support and we look forward to feeding the province, country, world for millennia.
MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant
Kemptville and Riverside Park c. 1956
OASIS PAINTING
COMMUNITY EVENTS
RECURRING EVENTS
Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families. PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@ gmail.com
Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome BINGO, Kemptville Legion, Bingos run from the beginning of September until the end of June on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155
Friendship Lunch Regular weekly lunches will resume on SEPTEMBER 6TH. Lunches are served at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.
Spencerville Agricultural Society planning general meetings. If you are interested in joining our committee, please email info@spencervillefair.ca to receive all of the meeting details. Oct 21, Nov 11. The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville Ontario
BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, September 10, 24. Registration from 6:30 p.m., play from 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com
EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, September 3, 17. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com
Kemptville Farmers' Market: Many local farmers, producers and makers. Every Sunday from noon til 4pm, May 12 - October 27. Located at 301 Rideau St, Kemptville, across the lot from B&H Grocers
Kemptville Street Piano Concert, Saturday afternoons at 1pm to mid-September at the North Grenville Public Library. https://www.facebook.com/KemptvilleStreetPiano/ South Branch Serenade at Rotary Park, every Thursday night throughout July and August, between 5:30 – 7:00pm.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Sundance Artisan Show The event will be open all 3 days of the Labour Day long weekend (Aug 31, Sept 1,2). Hours: Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm; Mon. 10am-2pm.
Sundance is located at 126 Maberly Elphin Rd, Maberly, ON (at the intersection of HWY 7 and beautiful County Rd 36). WIZARD CARD GAME TOURNAMENT on Sunday, September 8 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.
Kemptville Horticultural Society. Wednesday September 18, at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church, 1964 County Rd #43, Kemptville Wizard Card Game Tournament. September 8. Registration starts at 12:30, $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com. Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Rabies vaccination clinics. September 11 from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Ferguson Forest Centre, County Road 44 Kemptville
Old Paper Show. September 14 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sponsored by the Eastern Ontario Postcard Club Wall Street United Church gym 5 Wall Street Brockville Kemptville Horticultural Society. September 18, 7:00 pm They will be holding their Fall Flower Show, plus Becky Campbell will be speaking about gardens of Denmark and Sweden. Kemptville Pentecostal Church, 1964 County Rd #43, Kemptville
The 46th Annual Masonic Fish Fry. September 21, 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm. Tickets available at the door $25/ Adults $13/Under 12 Eat in or Take Out. North Grenville Municipal Centre, suites A, B, & C
FOR SALE
Electric fully-enclosed 4-wheeled scooter, lightly used, good price, 613-269-2432.
Mixed hardwood firewood. $120 per face cord. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.
4X4 round bales and small squares of hay, suitable for horses. Call or text Jon 613227-3650.
MISCELANEOUS
Looking to rent farmland in North Grenville & surrounding areas. Call or text Mitch @ 613-2621204.
GARAGE SALES
Inside sale Aug 30 & 31 from 9 to 3 at 755 CR44. Tools, coins, home decor.
FOR RENT
Beautiful 1400 sq.ft. Apartment for Rent in Chesterville. 2+1 bedrooms in a triplex. Bright kitchen with Laurysen cabinets, fridge, stove, laundry on site. Tenant controls energy efficient utilities. Lots of parking with snow removal. Large backyard with lawn mowed. References. First and last. $2000.00 monthly. 613-448-2350
Does your business go further than North Grenville? Advertise in our sister paper The North Dundas Times!
Contact Nanda! Marketing Consultant Email: nanda@ndtimes.ca
ACROSS
1. Nonchalantly unconcerned
6. Black, in poetry
10. Mess up 14. Devotee
15. Arid
16. Citrus fruit
17. Large body of water
18. An abandoned calf or lamb
19. Largest continent
20. Related to
22. Pleased
23. Extremely
24. Sneaks a look
25. Border
29. Universal
31. Cultivated land
33. Disapprove of
37. Area around a nipple
38. Charred
39. Adolescent
41. Lowlife
42. Lubricated
44. Glimpse
45. Water vapor
48. Scalawag
50. Sword handle
51. Fruitlessness
56. African sheep
57. Unit of land
58. The southern states
59. Quash
60. Footwear
61. Gentry
62. Biblical garden
63. Stitches
64. Discourage DOWN
1. Alliance
2. Slang term meaning
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
insane
3. Assert
4. Burn the surface of
5. Anagram of "Sneer"
6. Fugitive
7. Trounced
8. Commanded
9. Require
10. Whip
11. Fine thread
12. Inuit boat
13. Rosary components
21. Baggage
24. An essay
25. French for "State"
26. Dreadful
27. Delight
28. Stretching out
30. What's left
32. Warning signal
34. Spheres
35. Harvest
36. Jittery
40. Otalgia
41. 360 in a circle
43. Sadness
45. Remove facial hair
Weary
Wash out with a solvent
Terminated
Low in pitch
Egyptian river
Way out
Location
Fortune teller
Baldwin's Birds
A Mourning Dove is Mourning
Today, on returning to home after my Tuesday morning breakfast with friends, I had the misfortune to come upon the victim of yet another “Cat Attack”, lying on the pathway to our front door! A very distressing sight indeed, that meant that yet another poor Mourning Dove was left without a mate, who had become a victim of a “Domestic Cat” attack! Yes, those lovely pets, whom many people adore, are deadly killers and account for numerous bird deaths every year. I have mentioned this fact before, so will not dwell on the subject, but hope that, if you are a cat owner, you only let it out of the house supervised, or fitted with some sort of warning system, so that bird deaths like this one do not take place. Thank you.
Following this occurrence, I was definitely stimulated to sit down and write my weekly article, as usual! However, my attention was drawn to a bird sitting on one of my back yard nesting boxes, which I could see through our back patio door window. Ah ha! It was something unusual
to be sure, and so my camera was soon in hand and thoughts of writing, right then, abandoned! Well, this was another pleasant surprise for me to see for, after taking a few pictures and consulting my bird books, I was able to conclude that my new visitor was an Eastern Phoebe, which don’t tend to be seen in our neck of the woods very often, so was quite a treat to see. From the top of the nesting box that it had landed on initially, it flew to one of my other nesting boxes and then flew nearer to where I was observing it. I was able to get some good shots of it to positively identify it, so was well pleased with myself.
By the time I had achieved this, it was time for a coffee, from which I was distracted, once again, by the comings and goings of a couple of female Hummingbirds, who were busy competing with Wasps to get at our sugar feeder! These particular “ladies” knew how to deal with, or avoid, these stinging pests and so, repeatedly, were able to feed quite enthusias-
VOLUNTEERING IS THE
tically for some time.
In between feeds they rapidly disappeared on to a branch in a nearby tree. I could watch them fly to the branch in the leaves, but could I see them with my camera? No siree! Their little green feathered bodies are the perfect disguise and make taking pictures of them a real challenge. Even when they return to the feeder and hover, ever so slightly, in front of the living room window for just a split second, they seem to sense the movement of the camera lens and are gone!
You, no doubt, have suffered this frustration yourself, so know what I am talking about. Don’t stop trying though, you’ll succeed in the end and this will add to the joy of watching all the birds that you are able to see, or hear, because their songs are very beautiful to listen to as well. Enjoy all of the different aspects associated with birds, but above all, stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin
OF
OUR COMMUNITY
United Counties Summer Company program graduation
Five intrepid young Leeds Grenville entrepreneurs have graduated from the Summer Company program. They gained valuable experience being their own boss and solved business challenges by accessing their creativity, practicing perseverance and soliciting community support. The end goal was to successfully operate their businesses throughout the season.
In its 24th year, the Summer Company program continues to provide hands-on business training and mentoring to youth entrepreneurs. Participating students receive education on all things small business and the opportunity to work with local mentors who provide support and advice. Students also receive an award to help with startup costs and an additional award is given upon the successful completion of the program.
2024 Graduates:
Taylor Brumwell, Brumwell Lawn Services, Municipality of North Grenville, provided routine lawncare (raking, watering, cutting, weed trimming), as well as seasonal aeration,
fertilizing, over-seeding, light landscaping services, and garden work in and around Kemptville. You can reach Taylor at brumwelllawnservices@gmail.com or 613-284-7886 for fall services.
Rane Gibbs, RGB Industry Décor, City of Brockville, created hand-made home and kitchen décor, and provided customization options for particular designs. Rane attended local markets as a vendor and also sold online. Rane intends to continue her entrepreneurial journey. Contact Rane at ranegibbs@rpgindustrydecor.com or 613-213-2876.
River Irvine, Prize Pursuit Gaming, Township of Augusta, created online tournaments over the summer, allowing gaming hobbyists the opportunity to show off their skills. Games included Guitar Hero, first person shooter games, and more. River can be reached via DM @prizepursuitgaming on Instagram and Facebook.
Karsen Noe, Noe Woodworks, Township of Augusta, created hand-sculpted wooden decor, ornaments, jewellery and more in his
workshop at home. Karsen sold his products at local summer markets. For custom requests you can reach him at noewoodworks@ gmail.com or 613-243-0838. Evan Trower, Trower Mobile Detailing, City of Brockville, delivered mobile car detailing that including interior and exterior cleaning services. Services ranged from basic to advanced care based on need. Evan is keen to continue his entrepreneurial dreams. He can be reached by email at trowermobiledetailing@gmail.com or by phone at 613-447-2185 This program is funded by the Province of Ontario as well as the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the City of Brockville. To find out more about the Summer Company program visit our website.
Photo: Carol Hardy, Small Business Program Assistant, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville; Mayor Gauri Shenkar of the Town of Prescott; Mayor Matt Wren City of Brockville; Mayor Brant Burrow of Township of ElizabethtownKitley; Deputy Mayor John Barclay of the Municipality of North Grenville; Mayor Jeff Shaver of the Township of Augusta, also on behalf of Warden Nancy Peckford, Mayor of North Grenville; MPP Steve Clark and MP Michael Barrett, both representing the riding of LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes; Jeanette Johnston, Small Business Development Officer, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.
Program Graduates: Karsen Noe of Noe Woodworks, Rane Gibbs of RGB Industry Décor, Taylor Brumwell of Brumwell Lawn Services, River Irvine of Prize Pursuit Gaming, and Evan Trower of Trower Mobile Detailing.
Male Downey Woodpecker taking a sip of water Eastern Phoebe
The community events listed in this paper are made possible by the support of local businesses. Support your neighbours—shop locally!
A Hot Problem in the City
Do you know the new problem that is starting to kill some people? It’s not a viral disease, but it’s spreading in very hot climates. Caring pet owners protect their dogs from it, but some people are not taking the same precautions. What’s the trouble? It’s third-degree burns that result from contact with hot pavement. Our sidewalks are becoming deadly!
Climate change is creating environmental extremes. Floods for some. Fires for others. And in some cities, there are growing numbers of people suffering severe burns from contact with excessively hot outdoor surfaces. The statistics show that not only are more such burns occurring each year, but more people are dying from very large and deep burns caused by prolonged contact with hot sidewalk pavement.
The New York Times reported on a case in Las Vegas. A man, having had a few too many drinks at his favourite bar, passed out on a sidewalk during the day as temperatures rose to 109ºF. He woke up in hospital with severe burns, and not only to his skin. He suffered third-degree burns that scorched deep into the underlying muscle and bone. Treatment for his burns required several weeks in hospital and multiple operations to salvage damaged tissue. For a few drinks, it was a huge price to pay.
There are other examples where alcohol wasn’t a factor. One elderly man tripped and fell on stones in his own backyard. He badly scorched his hands, forearms, and legs in trying to get himself up. Another person had the same problem, not due to age but to excessive weight. The pavement was so hot that summertime clothing did little to alleviate the scorching intense heat. Cries for help brought bystanders, but the damaged was done. This person also received dangerous burns requiring hospitalization, surgeries, and a very painful process of recovery.
Children as also falling victim. For example, toddlers don’t realize how hot door handles can get or even car seats in the sun, and they don’t have well-developed withdrawal reflexes. In the blink of an eye, babies can crawl from cool grass or safe playground surfaces onto hot pavement, or from a beach towel onto blistering hot sand. They may not cry until after a damaging burn occurs.
People with diabetes comprise another category of victims. Their damaged nerves and poor circulation, especially in their feet, increase the risk of burns from walking barefoot on hot concrete and not feeling pain. Amputation is the only possible treatment for ten per cent of diabetics who burn their feet.
How many people fail to think of their pet’s paws on hot asphalt. Do this simple test. If you can’t hold the back of your hand for seven seconds on the sidewalk, then it’s too hot for your dog.
We will all need to be more careful about burns from hot pavement. But don’t forget about where burns remain most common and preventable. That’s in the kitchen. Use your common sense, as nearly everyone can identify the risks. Young children should not be near the stove. Older people need to make adjustments when cooking. Among seniors, burns are the second leading injury at home after falls. So don’t attempt to carry pots and hot dishes that are too heavy to handle safely. And don’t wear loose clothing that can catch fire, especially at a gas-burning stove.
What can be done about that scorching pavement? Let’s start by not building more and more of it. Cities and subdivisions will continue to expand. But we need to use better design with more greenery, and a lot less concrete and asphalt.
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St. John’s United Church September activities
We strive to be a welcoming, safe place for people of all ages and stages. This is a fully accessible building via the side entrance.
Sunday morning services are at 10 a.m. and open to all. We look forward to sharing time with each of you. Coffee hour afterwards. Services are also live streamed for your convenience.
Join us in Kid’s Faith Corner starting September 8, 10 a.m. Have fun participating in the weekly activities as we learn and grow in faith together. Open to all ages.
Friendship Café is open to the community every Tuesday morning, starting September 3, from 10 to noon. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a hot beverage, a sweet treat, and some friendly conversation, all at no cost. Kim Drake, a member of St. John’s, is offering “A penny for your thoughts”, an opportunity to share confidentially, one on one, your story, your concerns, or whatever is on your mind.
Friendship Lunches, a joint venture with House of Lazarus, Holy Cross, Kemptville Pentecostal, St. James Anglican, and St. John’s United, are offered every Friday from September 6 onwards. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship, and fellowship. Menu alternates between soup and sandwiches and a hot meal. Donations are welcome, but not expected.
St. John’s Drawing Circle will begin again on Friday, September 13, at 4 pm. This is a three-hour drawing studio with life drawing models (clothed) for artists of all ages and abilities. Please bring your own supplies, whatever medium you choose. Cost is $120 for 12 weeks, or $15.00 for drop-in attendance. RSVP please Jennifer at gowjb@msn.com. Free instruction, pre-drawing circle time, is available - sign up is with Jayne Couch at jayne.couch@yahoo.com.
St. John’s Book Club will meet on September 17 at 7 pm with a guest speaker, author Jennifer Squire. Jennifer writes under two pseudonyms (pen names), including one as a romance novelist. All are welcome to attend and learn more about creative writing in different genres. RSVP please to Diane at dtappin.dt@gmail.com.
House of Lazarus continues the Tuesday Community Hub upstairs at St. John’s United. All are welcome to drop in and benefit from what they are offering to the community. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, and community services assistance are just a few of the weekly programs. Stop by and visit, or contact House of Lazarus directly at 613-989-3830 for more details. “Building Community, Sharing Hope”.
St. John’s United is an additional drop-off point for the House of Lazarus Foodbank. On Sunday mornings and on Tuesdays, you are welcome to drop off your nonperishable food donations. In addition to their regular food requirements, there is an ongoing appeal for personal hygiene items – soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc. All assistance, including monetary donations, is always appreciated by the House of Lazarus.
Ladies Who Lunch, an open invitation to women of the community to join us at 11:30 am the last Wednesday of each month at Hardstones Restaurant. September 25 is our next gathering. No agenda, just an opportunity to meet, share, and laugh. Birthday cake is always provided, you select your own meal. Contact Barbara Rousseau at 613-258-4526 for more information and to confirm your presence. We wouldn’t want to run out of cake!
The church family of St. John’s United looks forward to sharing our faith, our community commitment and our friendship with all.
St. John’s United Church, 400 Prescott Street, Kemptville
The Food Corner
by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville
This is not to put down beef: a good beef steak, hamburger, or meat balls are all very tasty if you are able to be selective in your meat purchase. However, our family has started using pork more often as a beef substitute. That’s because pork is relatively inexpensive compared to beef, is now raised to be quite lean, and is very versatile. Pork Meat Balls in Tomato Sauce is an example of a very tasty dish that is also good for the budget. This recipe serves four. Pork Meat Balls in Tomato Sauce
Meat Ball Ingredients
• 1 pound of ground pork
• ½ cup of long grain rice
• ¼ cup catsup or enough to make it easy to form meat balls
• 1 teaspoon of crushed basil
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• A dash of Worcestershire sauce
Tomato Sauce Ingredients
• 5 medium sized tomatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
• (To peel the tomatoes, drop them into boiling water briefly until the skin comes off)
• 1 medium sized sweet onion cut into ½ inch pieces
• 1 can of tomato paste (a 6 ounce can will do)
• 2 tablespoons of crushed garlic
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack or smoked Oka cheese (optional)
Preparation
• Pre-heat your oven to 375F
• Mix the meat ingredients together in a bowl and make into 1 dozen meat balls
• Space the meatballs in a suitably sized baking pan (I use one made of glass)
• Mix the tomato sauce ingredients and pour over the meat balls
• Bake for a 45 minutes, then cover with the cheese (if you wish to)
• Bake for another 15 minutes or until the rice is tender
Serve your meatballs piping hot in shallow bowls. Accompany with your favourite Grahame’s Bakery bread. Note that we don’t use salt in this recipe. If you crave the salty flavour, simply sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. For serving more than four people or for a greater number of meat balls, just add to the recipe, as usual.
Enjoy! All the very best from pcormier@ranaprocess. com.
