The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 8,500 homes and businesses in North Grenville
from Community Living North Grenville Join Community Living North Grenville [CLNG] on Saturday, April 26, for an evening of LOL comedy. The extremely talented performers we have secured will captivate you with their stories, and bring tears to your eyes from laughing.
The CLNG Annual Comedy Night & Auction will be held at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. Tickets, on sale at the CLNG office, are $50 per person, or a table for eight at $350.
Beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, enjoy appetizing hors d'oeuvres, finger foods, and desserts from Catered Af-
fairs and Brewed Awakenings. Hunter McCaig with Rideau Auctions will engage everyone in an active and fun auction to raise needed funds for supporting people with an Intellectual Disability. These funds will be directed towards the Inclusion Fund and Transportation Services for the people we serve in our community. Awesome items donated by our local businesses will be available to bid on.
Rick Wharton, will MC the entertainment portion of the event. Rick Wharton is a Comedian, Actor, Producer, Radio Host, and Instructor. He is known for his performance as the Conspiracy Guy on Space: The Imagination
Station and an Improvisor at Second City. He is a notable producer, concert promoter, music manager and recently put his talents to transforming the Festival Hall in Pembroke into the Festival Hall Centre for the Performing Arts, and established a Downie/ Wenjack Legacy Space at the Festival Hall. Its mission is to educate and promote reconciliation in the small communities within Renfrew County with their Algonquin Indigenous neighbours in nearby Pikwakanagan.
You will be entertained by the hilarious Canadian comedians, Rick Currie, and Jim McNally. Rick Currie is a veteran of the Canadian comedy scene
and is known for his clean, whimsical style. Rick was a writer for the Rick Mercer Report and Open Mike with Mike Bullard. His accomplishments include Gemini Award Winner, CBC's Debaters, CTV's Comedy Now, Just for Laughs, and the Halifax and Winnipeg Comedy Festivals.
Jim McNally is known for his story telling from his personal life experiences and a comical outlook on city and small-town life. He has performed at the Halifax and Winnipeg Comedy Festivals, CTV's Comedy Now, CBC's Laugh out Loud, and Just for Laughs.
Since 2011, the success of this event has been attributed to our great community sponsors. We would like to send out a special thank you to our Gold sponsors, Jansen Law, and McDougall Brown Insurance, for their continued support. Thank you to Montessori School for joining us this year as a Silver Sponsor. The backbone of our Sponsorship is through the continued community support as Bronze Sponsors from Ardron Landscaping, the Evans Family, Bell Park Financial Services, Howell Electric, Millers Painting, Randy's Performance
Cont'd on page 2
Auto, Solutions 1 Wealth Management, and Robert Walker. Kemptville Brewing is our Bar Sponsor, and we are excited to be showcasing their beverages at our event. Thanks also to O' Farrell Financial as our Advertising Sponsor.
Community Living North Grenville supports people to reach their full potential and enjoy all aspects of community life. We offer several services and supports throughout the communities of North Grenville and the surrounding areas. It was founded in 1967 by parents and community members
who wanted an alternative living arrangement for their son or daughter. Families remain the backbone and strength of the community living movement. We operate through the governance of a local volunteer board of directors. Our goal is promoting Inclusion for All. CLNG Comedy Night helps us to support that goal.
Comedy Night & Auction is possible through the continued support of members of the community, volunteers with the Event Committee, CLNG employees, and the people we serve, who volunteer their time for the event. Chris and Nancy Morgan will MC for the evening; Paul and Anna Rochon have volunteered to manage the Bar
If interested in volunteering for the event, becoming a sponsor, or purchasing tickets, please contact Tanya Baird at 613-258-7177, or info@ clnorthgrenville.ca.
Buy your tickets early, as this is always a sold-out event. See you there!
Sweet fun awaits at Maple Weekend in North Grenville!
Get ready to indulge in all things maple as Maple Weekend returns to North Grenville on Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6 at the Agroforestry Centre, 2627 Bedell Road. From 10 AM to 4 PM, visitors can experience the magic of maple syrup production with guided tours, an up-close look at the evaporator in action, and scenic woodland walks.
Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast (complete with sausage, eggs, coffee, tea, juice and fruit) catered by the Kemptville Youth Centre and the Rotary Club of Kemptville—all for a suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children.
But that's just the beginning! Satisfy your sweet tooth with maple taffy on snow, maple cotton candy, and other tasty maple treats. Enjoy outdoor activities, live music, and a chance to purchase fresh maple products straight from the source.
Don't miss out on this fun-filled, family-friendly weekend celebrating one of Canada's spring sweetest traditions! Reservations are recommended—secure your spot now on Eventbrite
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Friends of the North Grenville Public Library are looking for more volunteers!
The Friends of the North Grenville Public Library is a non-profit voluntary and charitable association dedicated to enhancing library services for the Municipality of North Grenville citizens. We raise funds to support the library programs, resources and activities for all ages but especially seniors, children and youth.
There is always room for more around our executive table. If you have the ability to take and process meeting minutes, if you are interested in digitizing our paper records, have an interest in event planning and execution, or have other talents you would like to share, then we are the group for you. There are usually 9 afternoon meetings per year at the library. We plan, promote and provide 3-4 community events annually.
Please drop us a line at friends@ngpl.ca, or call Barbara at 613-258-4526 for more information.
Sustainability Fair Presentations: Learning about
by Sustainable North Grenville
This year's 16th North Grenville Sustainability Fair continues the tradition of presentations on a range of topics to help with your budget, your well-being, and the health of our planet. Join us on Sunday, April 27, in the Urbandale Theatre, at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, as they are offered hourly between 10am and 3pm. Fair admission and presentations are free.
Meredith Luce will launch our series at 10am, sharing the joy and benefits of nature journaling. You'll learn how to focus your senses, be present in the moment, and grow your curiosity to develop an appreciation for nature and a connection with your surroundings. Nature journaling promotes mindfulness, can facilitate community connections, improve your artistic eye, and - most importantly - contribute to citizen science and environmental stewardship. Meredith's workshop will give you a deeper understanding of the mindset and principles of nature journaling, along with a handful of spring journaling activities to do in your own back yard. At the cost of a pencil, some paper, and your time, nature journaling could bring you deep reward and gratification.
The 11am presentation will explore what's in Ontario's new energy retrofit incentive program. The SaveON Home Renovation Savings program is different to previous provincial and federal energy retrofit programs by what is offered and how it is administered. Incentives cover heat pumps, solar
healthy therapies and savings
electric panels and batteries, heat pump water heaters, plus envelope upgrades like air-tightening and insulation, but some come with big caveats.
Chris Weissflog, a local renewable energy and building efficiency proponent, will review the various incentives, explain how to engage with the program to get the incentives, and share opinions on when they might be advantageous, or not.
At noon, Jeff Knapp will explore all things EV. Jeff has driven many EVs since 2017, and will discuss a range of topics, such as how they compare to combustion engine vehicles, range, charging, planning trips, towing, regenerative braking, and one pedal driving. He'll also bust the myths that continually show up in social media. Jeff will compare costs with traditional vehicles – purchasing, insurance, energy, maintenance, warranties – to show how the total cost of ownership compares. You'll also learn terminology, and which aspects of EVs are important to know when doing your research. It will be good preparation for the Fair's own EV show in the arena.
Tim VanderMeer will deliver the 1pm presentation, focusing on heat pumps. Recent government incentive programs have encouraged homeowners to consider retrofitting their homes with
air-source heat pumps. There have been dramatic improvements in their effectiveness so that they can perform well in our cold Canadian climate. In many cases, they can provide significant and efficient heating and air conditioning while delivering real energy cost savings. Tim is a local HVAC designer who specializes in energy efficient homes and has hands-on construction experience. He will explain how heat pumps work, their relationship with the building envelope, and how they can be adapted to a range of homes.
Our presentation lineup culminates at 2pm with Dr Shawn Yakimovich ND, who will prepare you for the upcoming season with a seminar in naturopathic summer first aid. Dr Shawn is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, in practice since 2006. He founded Kemptville Naturopathic Clinic in 2010 and has been providing holistic family medicine to our community ever since. Dr Shawn's talk –"Naturopathic Summer First Aid" – will cover 10 natural remedies for common acute summer situations that you will be able to immediately put to use with your family. The presentation will discuss effective herbal and homeopathic remedies for poison ivy, wounds, infections, Lyme disease, food poisoning, and more!
Join us on Sunday, April 27, at the North Grenville Sustainability Fair to learn how to live a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle, and how to, potentially, save money retrofitting your home.
Long ago and far away
by David Shanahan
In last week’s Times we published two articles by young women who are far from home, seeking a safe haven from war and oppression. Like so many others, they are immigrants in this country, trying to find a new life here. In this issue, we have a story about an initiative to try and solve the severe shortage of medical practitioners that has reached crisis proportions for residents in North Grenville and beyond. The answer may be the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program, which trains previously qualified immigrants to be certified to practice in Canada. It is another example of the benefits immigrants can bring to our society.
But there are always those who object to immigration for various reasons, and it is to them that questions need to be put. If you are are Canadian, and not Indigenous (though that is a complicated matter also), then somewhere in your family past is at least one immigrant. Do you know who they were, where they
came from, why they came here? Because, as I’ve often pointed out, immigrants are also emigrants: they came from somewhere else. Perhaps long ago and far away, a young man or woman left their home and family, their friends and community, in fact left everything they ever knew, and took on an arduous journey to cross an ocean, or traverse a continent.
They survived a long voyage, perhaps, a journey not everyone lived through. They landed on an island like Grosse Isle or Ellis, or Pier 21 in Halifax. The “wrong” kind of immigrants, Jewish, Chinese, Indian, were refused entry and turned back to face a Holocaust, or were taxed heavily just for the privilege of entering the country to build railways. The challenges they faced were serious and debilitating for people who had left challenges behind them at home. Life was not easy. No-one who has not had that experience can really understand what it does to you, the cost involved in pulling up roots and trying to transplant yourself in a strange and often utterly alien society. But,
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor, Trump has essentially declared war on us. What else would you call a declared intention to take us over? So, we can’t buy from an enemy. I urge everyone to boycott American products. To do this, we need the cooperation of our merchants. Last week Independent grocery had a flyer advertising strawberries from USA or Mexico. When I went with the intent of buying the Mexican product, I found there was only USA product, so I bought none. I just use this as an example. I realize merchants need time to pivot, but all merchants should avoid USA products. If there is no other alternative source for an item, then we need to do without that particular item. There is no product that we can’t live without. If merchants stock USA product, it will be their own fault if they are left with unsaleable stock. While I’m at it, let me urge you to avoid travel to the USA. Have you noticed that they have thrown upstanding, innocent visitors from Canada, Germany, and Britain, in jail
perhaps, you are one of those travellers who know what I’m talking about? The vast majority of Canadians, however, look back on decades, generations even, of settlement in Canada and that emigrant trauma is also long ago and far away. Your ancestor, whoever he or she was, usually knew that they were leaving it all forever: never to return and see their loved ones and homeland again. It was only after the 1960's that relatively inexpensive and easily accessible travel allowed such a return, and that was never an easy option.
With some exceptions, emigrants carry with them a link to their past, a growing awareness as immigrants that they come from somewhere else, that the new country is different and, albeit exciting and new, can also be frightening and foreign. It might be language, religion, culture, or some intangible thing that you can’t quite put your finger on, but it is there nevertheless, as real as your loneliness and loss. Who was your immigrant? Who was the one who gave up so much that meant you could have this gift, this Canada, this life you and
for up to a month in harsh conditions for no reason? It’s not safe to go there for now. Anyway, spend your money here, or in countries that are true allies.
Will Vanveen Kemptville.
Dear Editor,
I am still shaking my head at why 55% of voters in this province didn't exercise their right in the recent election, and why so many of the rest vote Conservative, when there is so much information out there about Ford's cuts to our health and education programs. I was pleased to see the recent editorial by David Shanahan titled "Teach your children," along with Christina Decarie's article "Cuts in education are a community crisis", because it seems that we must keep reminding people just what is at stake here.
So, the $200 bribe that we all received cost us $3 billion, almost the same as his $3.25 billion that Ford cut from our health care budget. He has also prioritized tax cuts and subsidies for
yours enjoy today? Do you know anything about them?
Of course, immigrants are people with the usual defects and talents of all of us. Some of them use the system to get whatever they can from it; perhaps that was a necessity where they come from, a way to survive and take care of yourself and your family. Or maybe, they’re just good at scamming the system. But look at this country: look at the values, the lifestyle, the quality of life we enjoy, and I don’t just mean financially. Recently, we’ve all come to a greater appreciation of what it means to be Canadian. No wonder so many want to enjoy that for themselves. Who could blame them?
But someone made it possible for you to be here, now. They went through the separation from loved ones, from land and community, from everything they held dear, in order to start the new life you’re enjoying today. It may have a been a recent arrival, or it may have been generations ago. Some things are true, whenever they arrived: they had moments of intense homesickness, loneliness, perhaps even persecution for their
corporations, totaling nearly $10 billion annually, significantly reducing government revenue and contributing to the perceived fiscal crisis. Had Ford staffed our hospitals at the same rate per capita levels as other provinces, Ontario would have an additional 35,000 extra full-time staff to deal with the health care emergency in this province, and had he kept spending consistent with population growth, that would mean close to 1,900 additional hospital beds.
Doug Ford's policies have also meant 45% of Ontario households now spending 30% or more of their total income on shelter, the highest on record and across the country. And there are now an additional one million more Ontarians without a family doctor than there would be had Ford's government kept pace with inflation and population growth.
So, maybe one of you 55% that didn't vote could explain to me how your apathy helped, because had you voted, we may not have had another 4 years of a
ethnicity, colour, language, or religion. It’s also likely that their children or grandchildren, born after they arrived in Canada, could be embarassed by their elder’s accent, attitudes, or beliefs. It’s called the Second Generation phenomenon.
Whatever their experience of emigration/immigration, they made the move, took the chance, stepped into a new and strange world, and you are the beneficiary. Think about them whenever you hear immigrants being disparaged. Your ancestor also came seeking a better life, opportunity, or just escape. Don’t underestimate their achievements, because you’re part of it. Don’t deny others the chance.
I have a favourite song about this, of course. It talks of the look in a grandfather’s emigrant eyes as he remembers what he left and where he has arrived. It’s something each one of us can say in truth and understanding:
“My grandfather’s days are all numbered, but I won’t let his memory die. For he gave me the gift of this country - and the look in his emigrant’s eyes.”
government that cares only about money and business.
I suppose that it is a bit much to expect anybody who cannot be bothered to vote to take the trouble to let the rest of us know why not. There is a book out there called "Against the People", written by academics, economists, health care workers, human rights lawyers, housing researchers, NGO specialists, teachers, and indigenous and community leaders. It is quite the eye opener, and just might pull you out of your lethargy.
As for you who did vote for Ford, maybe you can explain to the rest of us why it doesn't bother you that both our education and health systems are deliberately underfunded, and that a large portion of our taxes are going to the business community, to the detriment of the rest of us.
Colin Creasey,
Dear Editor
I would like to congratulate Peter Johnson for his letter regarding the Leader of His Majesty's Opposition.
I could not agree with him more: please could our MP tell his leader to have the decency to stop calling people names, treat elected officials with respect, and have some decorum. Most officials do a pretty decent job, so stop the rhetoric, please.
And, could he please stop talking to me like I am a five-year old: the slow deliberate way statements are made is just so incredibly annoying. Most of us can hold a pretty decent discussion with people who speak normally. We don't need to be lectured.
Oh, in this time of supporting all-things Canadian, because of our southern neighbour's behaviour, one should remember that the Leader of the Opposition has said he wants to stop funding our national broadcaster, the CBC. Indeed, I believe he told one reporter that he would stop him [the reporter] being paid by the public purse - really? Who pays the Leader's salary, expenses, pension, and health plans? WE DO!, so it's a bit royal to say what he did, isn't it?
From someone who has had a real job for 30+ years, mostly not paid for by the public purse!
P.S. I have already asked our MP to ask his leader to show some decorum. Andrew M. Thriscutt
Dear Editor, Ralph Raina 100 I met Ralph for the first time in his fantastic (2-level) family clothing store on Sanders Street in 1975. He always made sure you would not leave his store until you were satisfied with your purchase. Ralph was also busy in municipal politics as a councillor and Mayor of old town Kemptville for many years. Ralph became an Icon in this pretty rural town. He was also an integral part of Kemptville College of Agricultural Technology’s (KCAT) Home Economics Department. On KCAT’s Graduation Day, Ralph presented the “Raina’s Family Store Award” to the best fashion
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Op-ed
And away we go... again
by David Shanahan
The long-expected federal election is on, and we’ve just a few short weeks to enjoy the fun, and there should be fun. We’re in a very unusual situation. Just over four weeks ago, a Conservative Premier called an election before it was due because he wanted a mandate to deal with Trump and the tariff issue. Now we have a Liberal Prime Minister who called an election before it was due because he wanted a mandate to deal with Trump and the tariff issue. Canadian unity, indeed.
The parallels are clear. Take this statement from
Mark Carney when he announced the election, and just substitute “Ontario” for “Canadian”:
“What’s important is that the government has a mandate from the Canadian people to finish the job, to fi nish the job of building that Canadian economy, to finish the job of diversifying our trading partners, and to have a strong mandate to stand up to Donald Trump and the Americans and negotiate the best deal for Canadians.”
But aside from the parallels, the federal Conservatives are not nearly as happy with this election as their provincial counterparts were with theirs. This wasn’t the election they had prepared
for during the last couple of years. Where’s Trudeau? Where’s the Carbon Tax? How can we have an Axe the Tax campaign, with no Tax? How can you pit Poilievre against Trudeau, without Trudeau? This is, in truth, a serious problem for Poilievre.
He now has to pivot (Pivot! Pivot! - cultural reference for those who know) away from all the plans and face the reality of a new Liberal leader with a fresh image and who seems more capable of dealing with Trump and the real world that has now suddenly emerged this year. To add to his problems, Poilievre has been too closely identified, by his own strategy, with
Catholic School Board meeting report
CDSBEO Student Achievement Plan & Math Achievement and Action Plan: Brenda Reil, Principal of Curriculum and Student Success, and Anne Leach, Principal of Math Learning in Schools, presented the CDSBEO’s Student Achievement Plan (SAP) and Math Achievement Action Plan (MAAP) to the Board of Trustees. The SAP focuses on achieving learning outcomes in core academic skills, preparing students for future success, and promoting student engagement and well-being. Key initiatives include early literacy screening, professional learning for teachers and administrators, centralized purchasing of evidence-based resources, Indigenous student support, and enhanced community partnerships. The MAAP aims to improve mathematics outcomes through curriculum fidelity, deepening educators' math content knowledge and ability to understand and address each of their students’ learning needs. The plan includes professional development for teachers, high-impact instructional practices, and a tiered approach to math instruction. The presentation outlined the board’s strategies for excellence in both literacy and math, to ensure equitable support for all students. The comprehensive approach integrates feedback from various stakeholders and focuses on data-driven decision-making to support student success. International Education Update:
Amy Tian, CDSBEO Coordinator of International Education, provided an update to the Board of Trustees about the CDSBEO International Education program, which welcomed 88 students this year, the highest number to date. Students are from countries including China, Mexico, Japan, Spain, Italy, Germany, Vietnam, and Switzerland, studying across seven CDSBEO high schools. The program aims to enhance cultural awareness, equity, diversity, and inclusion, while fostering global perspectives. A key feature is the homestay experience arranged by MLI Homestay Service, which integrates students into local families and cultures. New initiatives this year include an International Student Well-Being Day and a Buddy Program, pairing international students with local mentors. The program also organizes three annual excursions, including visits to historical sites and universities. Future goals include expanding to 100 students by building partnerships with international schools and universities and fostering relationships with educational agents.
Trump and MAGA style politics. Those three-word slogans of his sound trite and amateurish now, and his name-calling has lost its zing. “Sneaky Carney”? Is that really the best a wannabe Prime Minister can come up with?
Carney, on the other hand, has the problem of pretending that the Liberals today are not the Liberals of yesterday, or of the past decade. He needs to blur the memories of voters by claiming that his Liberals are new, sprung up out of the ground since Justin’s “retirement”. Ironically, both parties will campaign on a claim to be all about change. In Carney’s case, it will be a hard sell, although the focus on facing down Trump (Elbows Up!) and playing the role of Captain Canada will certainly be the distraction he needs, and may well be the most valid claim he can make.
Poilievre’s appeal for change is more grounded in reality, though not always the reallity he wants to display. He has to change from a Trump Lite reputation, which he has worked hard to embrace, and try to be as defiantly Canadian as Carney or everyone else. The difficulty is that he has constantly boasted that his politics have not changed
in the twenty years since he entered that arena. The Tories will also have to deal with the fact that many voters who had been prepared to abandon the Grits did so because of Trudeau, and now they will probably return to the fold.
Then there’s the problem of the NDP. In fact, the NDP pose many problems, especially to themselves. Poilievre would have depended, during those halcyon days when his party was 20 points ahead of the Liberals, on the splitting of the non-Tory vote between the Grits and the NDP. This may not happen now, as Jagmeet Singh has alienated many potential supporters by his close alliance with
the Trudeau Liberals, and then turning on them when the chips were down, then supporting them again, then turning on them again. This is hard to take from a party that relies on a claim to integrity and being morally different from other political parties.
All of this is, naturally, speculation, albeit quite fun speculation, and may not reflect the reality of what will happen in the next few weeks. As I said, this will be fun, in spite of the fundamental seriousness of what is at stake. But in these troubled times, when so much uncertainty surrounds us, we should grab as much fun out of it as we can.
First they came
– by Pastor Martin Niemöller
First they came for the Communists And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist
Then they came for the Socialists And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist
Then they came for the trade unionists And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist Then they came for the Jews And I did not speak out Because I was not a Jew Then they came for me And there was no one left To speak out for me
student in Home Economics.
Each year, at KCAT’s College Royal, Ralph attended the student’s Fashion Show held at Rorke Hall in April. I always found him sitting on the front row, even making notes. A year or two ago, I had a visit with Ralph and we talked about the “Good ol’ Days” in “Oldtown Kemptville”.
CONGRATULATIONS
RALPH AND MANY
MORE HAPPY AND HEALTHY YEARS
William J. Langenberg, Merrickville
www.northgrenville.ca
What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events
Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings
Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville
Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca
Need additional information? Visit us: www.northgrenville.ca
Sugaring Season
from the Rideau Waterway Land Trust
As the vernal equinox arrives, we are beginning to see signs of nature awakening from its winter rest. The vernal, or spring, equinox occurs around March 21 each year, marking when day and night are of equal length. It signifies the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to longer days, warmer temperatures, and new life in nature. This time is filled with anticipation as the first signs of new growth and activity become noticeable in our environment if you know where to look.
March is particularly special in the Eastern Woodlands as we reach the peak of sugaring season, a cherished spring tradition practiced for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples, including the Anishinaabe, Abenaki, Haudenosaunee and Mi’kmaq. The original maple sugarmakers used the sap from Red, Black, and Sugar Maple trees as a sweetener, food preservative, medicine and trade item. During winter, trees store sugar as starch in their roots and transport it to branches in spring to fuel new growth. Maple sap flows best when there’s a daily freeze-thaw cycle of nighttime freezing and daytime warming, creating pressure that drives the liquid upwards. Many trees, including birch, walnut, poplar and sycamore, also produce a sweet, edible sap.
As temperatures warm, it’s not just sap that runs! With the melting snow, rivers and creeks begin to flow. Lake Trout can be sighted swimming closer to the water's surface; they typically seek cooler depths in summer just below the thermocline. Migratory birds like geese and robins return, breaking the quiet of winter with their songs. Bears and other hibernating wildlife emerge from their dens, while foxes, rabbits, and squirrels give birth to their young. Great Horned Owls, one of the earliest nesting species in Ontario, can be found sitting on their eggs, their presence indicative of the overall health of the ecosystem.
The muted colours of winter are replaced by the vibrant hues of early spring. Red Maple buds stand out against the bright blue sky, while pale green tips of new spruce growth offer an early-season nutrient source for wildlife. Soon, the forest floors will erupt with spring ephemerals like Coltsfoot, Hepatica, and Bloodroot, peeking through leaf litter and remaining patches of snow. These early blossoms bring colour and beauty to the landscape and provide essential sustenance for pollinators waking from their winter slumber.
As the Earth begins another cycle, we are reminded of the remarkable resilience and regenerative power of nature when held gently and treated with care. By tending to our environment we may continue to be nourished by it, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy the bounty of the sugaring season.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOP LOCAL
How to stay safe on our farms
by Angela Cammaert, Director, OFA
Staying safe at work is always important. That’s especially true on Ontario’s farms, which aren’t just a workplace, it’s also where those of us who farm live and raise our families. As we look forward to the end of winter and start preparing for the busy spring planting season coming up, it’s a great time to brush up on farm safety.
Safety is important on our farm; it’s something we’ve always taken seriously, especially when it comes to making sure our kids know how to stay safe. Some of the most tragic farm accidents every year involve children, and the entire farm community has a shared responsibility to make sure everyone knows how to keep kids safe.
We’ve taken our kids to farm safety days in our community, where different groups come together
to offer training on hydro and lawn mower safety for example, as well as illustrating different ways accidents can happen and be prevented on the farm. Our kids know to wear safety glasses, stay back from running farm equipment, and make sure they can be seen by drivers. Safety boots are also important, and we have taught them to follow the same safety rules on other farms as they do at home.
As well, because we have livestock, we make sure they know how to behave around animals. This means not to be running in and out of pastures where livestock are grazing and to be particularly careful during calving and lambing time. Baby animals are cute, but they’re also likely to be watched over by a very protective cow or ewe, who will step in to protect her young if she detects a threat.
Another important thing we’ve taught them is that
grain bins and wagons aren’t play places. It’s easy for kids – and adults for that matter – to fall or become trapped inside, for example. First responders aren’t always trained, or have the proper equipment, to handle grain bin rescues, which is why the OFA, together with many of its county and regional federations has supported grain safety and rescue training for rural first responders in many parts of Ontario through its Revive Fund initiative.
Farm safety isn’t just about kids, though. As adults, we also have a role to play in keeping ourselves and our farm employees safe. Right now, before planting gets underway, is a great time of year to inspect and do maintenance on farm equipment to make sure everything is working correctly and safely. And while we’re working, it’s important to stay alert, avoid working when over-tired, and use
proper protective gear, like wearing highly visible vests. Don’t wear loose clothing around running equipment, keep long hair tied back, and don’t walk around fields in the dark. Keep a first aid kit, a charged cell phone, and emergency contact numbers handy in case an accident does happen.
To me, the other big part of farm safety involves safety on the roads. Every year, accidents happen involving farm equipment and cars, and both farmers and motorists must do their part to keep roads – and drivers – safe. There are many initiatives underway across Ontario to improve road safety, including slow moving vehicle signage campaigns to help raise awareness of this important issue. For farmers, road safety means having proper signals and signage on their equipment and knowing the rules of the road.
And for motorists, keep in mind that farm vehicles can’t drive as fast as you, and, sometimes, the roads and shoulders aren’t wide enough for us to move aside – so please be patient and pass only when it’s safe (hills and curves are not safe!).
As we’re busy planning for spring, it’s important to make farm safety part of that plan. You’ll find information and resources that can help on the OFA website: ofa. on.ca/issues/farm-laboursafety.
-Support neighbourhood character -Keep Money in Your Community -Keep Small Communities Intact -Help the Environment
Youngsters of Yore, a Senior's group that meets weekly at the North Grenville Public Library, were entertained on Thursday, March 20, by the North GrenvilleTroubadors and the Tripoli Singers. The afternoon of lively Irish tunes, with interesting commentary, brought out the Irish in everyone as all joined the singers for familiar toe-tapping choruses. With the accompaniment of guitars, a banjo,an Irish flute, a bodhran and wooden spoons, many Irish, and a few Scottish tunes, came to life. Youngsters members say "thank you" to these singers and musicians for willingly sharing their musical talents with us.
L_R: Arthur McGregor, James Clugston, Doug Hendry, Helen MacGregor, Elizabeth McNally, Laura Drover, and John Baldwin.
MPP Steve Clark sworn in Where we’re at: Mayor’s Address 2025
by David Shanahan
The North Grenville Chamber of Commerce hosted a special event last week to celebrate local businesses, both old and new. It was also an opportunity to have Mayor Peckford deliver a keynote address on the current state of the Municipality. This was fortuitous timing, as the day before, Council had finalised the budget for this year, which included a 3% municipal tax hike.
The gathering was held in the Municipal Centre, and the staging was colourful and provided a properly formal atmosphere to the proceedings.
The co-hosts for the evening were William Pearl, Chair of the Chamber, and Board member Tina Murray, who gave a very warm introduction to local Member of Parliament, Michael Barrett, who spoke for a few minutes on the “monumental challenges facing us”, and of the need for all sectors of the community, and all levels of govern-
ment, to “row together” in these times of uncertainty. He was full of praise and admiration for Mayor Peckford and the members of Council, people, he said, had vision, sometimes ambitious vision, but still managed to get things done.
Mayor Peckford read the Land Acknowledgment before returning to the stage for her keynote talk. In between, a number of local business owners were introduced and spoke briefly about their role in promoting the local economy and the importance of local business. There was a nice blend of newer businesses, such as the Kemptville Brewery, Mattamy Homes, and Mama's Cheeky Co. Boutique, as well as more established ones, represented by B&H Grocers, Grahame’s Bakery, First Stop Tool & Equipment Rentals Ltd., and the Flower Shop. During the presentation by the Kemptville Brewery, it was noted that 60 jobs have been created there, all for local residents. The other business owners also reported em-
of bridge will be finished next year, and work will soon begin on four more roundabouts along the stretch of 43. The overall cost to NG is $10 million, with the United Counties share amounting to $35 million. North Grenville’s share is based largely on the underground infrastructure changes and improvements required by the project, and for which the municipality is responsible.
ployment of local people as a central plank of their operations.
But this was billed as the Mayor’s Annual Address, and Mayor Peckford had a lot of good news to deliver, probably more than people expected. Referring to the 3% tax increase voted through by Council, she emphasised that the intention was to return to a 2% increase in the future, but the circumstances, both now and since the pandemic, required something more. She also addressed the concerns many residents have about a future reevaluation of property under the MPAC program. There has been no reassessment for nine years, and there is fear that a sudden and sharp rise in property values will mean a similar rise in property taxes.
Mayor Peckford assured residents that any change wrought by MPAC would be introduced gradually, and that she does not expect MPAC to undertake a reassessment for some time yet. In a brief review of budget deliberations, she reported that council had organised them under four categories: economic growth; infrastructure and roads; recreation and community spaces; and housing and development. These were themes that had emerged through public surveys and a number of consultations.
A priority issue had been, and continues to be, County Road 43 and the construction work taking place there. Mayor Peckford noted that the project should be finished in late 2026, which means the work is almost halfway through. The four-lanes
The sewage treatment plant expansion, which was essential after 30 years of operations, was subsidised through an agreement with the province in a contribution of $21 million. The rest of the cost for the plant will be spread over 30 years and paid for through DC and user fees, not through municipal taxes.
The report finished with some surprising, but very welcome statistics from StatsCan. Between 2023 and 2024, 82 new businesses came to NG, in spite of the pandemic. Between 2020 and 2024, almost 1,000 new jobs have been created, an increase of 15%. The evening finished off with a short Q&A session with Mayor Peckford.
THE HONOUR OUR VETERANS BANNER PROGRAM
The Executive and members of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 212 Kemptville have adopted an Annual Remembrance Project which is entitled the “Honour Our Veterans Banner Program.” The project is part of a well-established and growing Canada Wide Memorial Banner Program that is duly supported and sanctioned by the Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command who has issued the following statement:
“The Royal Canadian Legion is Honouring Veterans with Memorial Banners, by the Memorial Banner Program organized by Legion Branches across Canada.”
Banner application packages are currently available at the Reception Desk of the North Grenville Public Library, Kemptville Norenburg Branch, at 1 Water Street, Kemptville, Ontario. The completed applications and associated documentation must be returned BY HAND to the Library Reception Desk. The deadline for submissions is Friday, May 30, 2025. This is an on-going program that will be expanded each year with the addition of new banners resulting from the same application process.
North Grenville Hometown Heroes Project
The Branch 212 Kemptville Banner Program Committee also extends an invitation to the honourees to participate in the “North Grenville Hometown Heroes Project” which is part of our Honour Our Veterans Banner Program. Banner honourees, their families or friends, are requested to write a brief military biography of the honouree and include it in the banner application package. The biography, photo of the honouree, along with a digital copy of the banner, will be placed in a special file at the North Grenville Historical Society Archives as a permanent record in honour of these exceptional men and women.
Contact Person: Mike Amirault, Chairman / veteransbanners212@hotmail.com. 100.
Steve Clark was officially sworn in for his sixth term as MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes during a ceremony at Queen’s Park on Wednesday, March 19. Pictured with MPP Clark is Trevor Day, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
Kemptville 73’s playoff rounds in jeopardy with two lose
Need to tame the bouncing rubber...Carter Graves pulls the trigger for his second marker but it wasn't enough as they fell short 4 to 3.
by G.J. the sportsguy
Kemptville 73’s bussed into Carleton Place to face their nemesis Canadians for the initial playoff confrontation that saw the hosts take a 3 to 1 win. Carleton Place dominated the opening twenty with Loic Prudhomme, with helpers from Culley and Kay, to place the rubber behind Trenten Bennett at 5:41.
Game winner from Small, with Prud’homme to Miller Kay, gave the Canadians a two goal lead at 15:51. A
combination from Bennett to Aidan Stubbings for 73’s only marker to negate Ian Vandenberg at 6:02 SO to start the second stanza.
Kemptville stayed with the opponents in the final frame without putting it behind the blue paint. After they pulled their stopper at 18:33 for a final push to even it up that snake bit them when Ian Vandenberg aced a shot into the open net at 18:54 for the insurance and seal the deal 3 to 1. Carleton Place outshot
Kemptville 32 to 29 with an even 0/3 PP.
Kemptville coach thought it was good playoff hockey with little mistakes that hurt them, and did not match the Canadians playoff readiness for sixty minutes. Looking forward to regroup for Friday battle at home. Excellent fan base showed up in the home barn, just shy of 650 were treated to an exciting seesaw contest that Kemptville suffered a 4 to 3 loss. Kemptville came out with jump, match-
ing stride for stride, hit for hit, with Carleton Place, to light the lamp with a give and go down low cycle from Fehr and Trottier to Carter Graves steamrolling Ian Vandenberg at 6:02. Matthews assisted Miller Kay to beat Trenten Bennett to knot it up at 17:46. A swarm on the doorstep of a wild bouncer from Finn Barton, with helpers from Doucet and McVie-Stevenson, for a garbage tie breaker at 18:15.
Man extra for the 73’s, as an aggressive penetration from Trottier with Shaw commanding the zone to find Carter Graves PPG streaking hard to the net for his second of the night at 5:43 for a tie. Combination of reverse from Bennett to Avry Shaw PPG from the point to blast a bomb behind a stunned Canadian stopper to move them ahead. Prud’homme, with Small, caught Calum Hartnell up the wall past Kemptville defenders into traffic for another tie at 9:02. At 19:07 Carleton Place game winner from Bouwer stretched over the line to Jackson Froysland around the pinching
defense to capitalize for 4 to 3 victory and two zip playoff advantage.
Kemptville removed Trenten Bennett at 19:26 for extra comeback response without result. Carleton Place outgunned Kemptville 39 to 34 SOG.
Coach thought the 73’s came up on the wrong end of a good playoff game and, unfortunately, Carleton Place took advantage of defensive mistakes. Anticipating a turn around on Sunday matinee on their opposition's turf to put them back in contention..
Hockey with EDGE… see you around the wall.
ENGAGED, STAY INFORMED, and STAY CONNECTED with your community Subscribe to NGT's Free Newsletter! ngtimes.ca/ newsletter/
Islands in the stream, part 1
by David Shanahan
The 1,000 Islands is a famous tourist destination, enjoying its glory days between 1874 and 1912, when it was the summer resort for wealthy Canadians and Americans, with lavish private homes and luxury hotels catering for visitors. Steamboat tours and outdoor activities made the region a stylish destination for people of all backgrounds.
Today, many of the expensive homes and hotels have a great historical value and draw tourists to appreciate the depth of heritage represented there.
Imagine what might have been if the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville [UCLG] had been in a position to enjoy the incredible revenues that would have accrued from sales and leases of those islands in that time. And it was nearly
so. For a time in the 1870's, serious consideration was being given by the United Counties Council to acquiring the islands lying in front of Leeds and Grenville from the Government of Canada. It is a forgotten part of the 175-year story of the UCLG.
In June, 1856, the Mississauga Indians surrendered to the Crown "to be sold or otherwise disposed of, to the best advantage for ourselves and our descendants forever... all and singular those islands lying and situate ...in the River St. Lawrence". The series of islands stretched from around the area of Prescott to the far side of Gananoque, fronting the counties of Leeds and Grenville. For the next fifteen years, the Islands were in a legal limbo, as the disruption of Confederation put their status in doubt. Under Confederation, Crown lands were a provincial area of jurisdiction, and the Islands
United Way L&G fundraising report
were technically Crown lands. But Indigenous affairs were the responsibility of the Dominion Government, and surrendered Indigenous lands were under their jurisdiction.
By 1870, the Dominion Government had won their claim for control over the Islands and the Indian Department, as it was then, decided to have an inspection made of the entire group to see what value there might be in them, what minerals, timber, or other assets might be discovered there. The bureaucrats were, as so often, some years behind the local population, and many of the Islands had already been taken over by settlers and farmers as squatters, exercising what is called pre-emption rights over the land.
In November, 1872, an inspection of islands was made by Departmental official Lawrence Vankough-
net, who reported on both squatters and lighthouse keepers. A number of lighthouses had been erected over the years for navigation purposes. Vankoughnet's report noted "the apparent plunder during past years of large quantities of Cordwood and Timber from off these Islands". He recommended appointing someone to supervise the Islands to prevent future spoliation.
At the same time, the Islands between Prescott and Brockville were surveyed and evaluated by Charles Unwin on behalf of the Dominion Government. The authorities had decided to get a valuation in order to provide guidance on the sale price which was planned to take at public auction. Un-
win's survey was complete by the first half of 1873. Word of the proposed sale reached the members of the United Counties Council, and prompted them to instruct the Clerk, James Jessup to prepare a Memorial to be sent to the Governor General opposing the sale and asking that they be retained in public ownership, aside from those useful for farming purposes.
The Memorial was forwarded to the Earl of Dufferin, Governor General of the Dominion of Canada, on June 21, 1873, and read, in part:
That your petitioners have with regret understood that attempts are being made to secure for private use and occupation the islands situ-
ate in the St. Lawrence River, in the Province of Ontario, fronting these United Counties to the extent of fifty-five miles – commonly known as The Thousand Islands. Your petitioners would respectfully submit that these islands should be retained by the Government as a place of resort for the people of these United Counties adjacent thereto, as well as of the whole Dominion generally.. Your petitioners feel that if the inhabitants of these United Counties and the people of the Dominion generally be prevented from landing on these islands by reason of their sale it would be a great grievance.
[Next: an unexpected opportunity for the Counties]
by Hailie Jack, Executive Director
United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) is pleased to announce that it raised $808,843.26 in its 2024 campaign, thanks to the generous contributions of donors, volunteers, and community partners. This will enable UWLG to continue its work in crucial areas such as housing, homelessness, food security, mental health, addiction, and youth support.
Last year proved to be a tough one for Canadian charities overall, facing economic challenges like ongoing inflation and an extended postal strike. UWLG was not immune to these difficulties, experiencing the same challenging fundraising conditions.
“We are so thankful that our donors recognized the essential role the United Way plays in meeting the needs of so many throughout Leeds and Grenville,” said UWLG Chair Ian McFall. “We set an incredibly ambitious goal and, while we did not quite get there, we are thrilled with the community’s response.”
The agency is entering a new phase of strategic planning to ensure it continues to thrive.
“We are taking proactive steps to strengthen our financial foundation for the future, including refining our communication strategies, hosting communityfocused events, building new partnerships, and exploring additional revenue streams,” said Executive Director Hailie Jack. ‘Our dedication to making a lasting, positive change remains as strong as ever, and we are more committed than ever to helping those who need it most.”
United Way Leeds & Grenville is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addiction, and youth support. Through collaboration, innovation, and our commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive.
The community events & posters listed in this paper are made possible by the support of local businesses. Support your neighbours!
Royals U11-B3 flow in Niagara Falls
by Chris Fox, Head Coach
The Kemptville Royals U11-B3 hockey team travelled to Niagara Falls over the March 14 to 16 weekend for the Ange Giajnorio Memorial Winter Thaw Tournament and had a great showing! The team consist of: Matteo Huywan, Tyler Fox, Ashton Juneau, Logan Lockhart, Oliver Wellon, Michael Fox, Kingsley Shouldice, Jaxson Sutton, Sawyer Monk, Nicholas Dillabough, Carter Gillies, Oliver Kirk and Everett Comeau, with a bench staff of Head Coach Chris Fox, Assistant Coach's Chris Lockhart, Curtis Gillies,
Aaron Juneau, Trainer Jon Huywan, and Manager Melissa Cote.
Game one brought the Royals head-to-head against the Mount Forest Rams. The Royals came out fast, but couldn't solve the Rams netminder in the first period. The second period was looking the same until the Royals got things going with 38 seconds left. Strong battling along the wall by Monk created some offensive opportunities. Goals were provided by M. Fox (2) and Lockhart (2), with helpers from Gillies (1), Lockhart (1), Juneau (1), and Comeau (1). Huywan held strong between the pipes to notch his 14th
shutout of the season. Strong defense by partners T. Fox and Kirk, making several shutdown plays, helped secure the Royals 4-0 win.
In game two, the Royals faced off against the Glanbrook Yetis and came up against a hot goaltender! The Royals got a quick start, less than a minute into the first, with a marker by Lockhart and the helper from Comeau. The Royals notched another one early in the third by Gillies, but the Yetis weren't about to go out without a fight. Glanbrook managed to sneak two in late in the third and despite several chances and a
tremendous effort by the Royals to net one, the game ended in a 2-2 tie. Saturday morning saw the Royals take on the Millbrook Stars for the last round robin match up of the tourney. The Royals turned on the taps for this one to find offensive flow more powerful than The Falls and led the team to a statement 9-1 victory. Goals were scored by Lockhart (2), Wellon (2), Gillies (2), M. Fox (1), Dillabough (1), and Comeau (1), who potted his first of the season! Assists were contributed by Lockhart (1), Wellon (1), Gillies (1), M. Fox (1), and Juneau (1). Sutton made strong plays on the backend to keep the Royals in control, and Shouldice backchecked hard to keep the Stars at bay. With his first goal of this game, centre man Lockhart hit a season milestone of 50 goals!
After 3 great performances by the team, unfortunately, the Royals were not able to advance out of the round robin, but are proud of the effort they put in and got to enjoy the majestic Niagara Falls on a team visit. The U11-B3 Royals would like to thank their season sponsors for their ongoing support, including White Diamond Cleaning, J.D. Barnes Ltd., Crazy Horse – Stonegrill, Steakhouse & Saloon, The LoudCup Company, The Rabbit Hole, and Moex Property Maintenance Inc.
NGCC Team undefeated in Senior Men's Curling League
Dave Brown and his teammates Lester McInnis, John Boos, and Jim Dolan, from the North Grenville Curling Club [NGCC], went undefeated with a record of 7-0 in the Trophy Division to claim first place in the 48-team Ottawa Valley Senior Men's Curling League Playoff.
An NGCC team, skipped by Paul Cormier, finished 3rd with a record of 4-3. Rick Scholes from Almonte, with a record of 5-2, won the Wright Division (teams ranked 7-8). Another NGCC team, skipped by Wayne Pitt, placed 3rd with a record of 4-3. Teams that compete in the league are from eight different curling clubs in the Valley – Richmond, Smiths Falls, Carleton Place, Perth, Almonte, Manotick, Huntley in Carp, and North Grenville.
The League's season is divided into two sessions. In the first session, the regular season, the 48 teams are divided into 4 pools of 12 teams. At the completion of this session, the teams in each pool are ranked from first to 12th place, based on their total points earned in that session.
In the playoff session, the top 2 teams in each of the regular season pools play in the eight team Trophy Division, the winner of that division is declared the league champion for the season. The rest of the teams based on their rankings in their regular season pools are assigned to the other five playoff divisions.
The Niblock Division (teams ranked 9-10) was won by Jim Trussler from Manotick with a record of 6-1. Doug Cochrane from Carleton Place, with a record of 6-1, won the Given Division (teams ranked 3-4). Andy Morrison from Perth, with a record of 6-1, won the White Division (teams ranked 5-6). Gerry Coleman of Almonte, with a record of 6-1, won the Booth-Coleman Division (teams ranked 11-12).
Awards and trophies were presented on March 5 to all winning teams at the annual year-end Banquet held at the Carp Agricultural Hall on the Carp Far Grounds.
72 fatal collisions, 81 people deceased in 2024
OPP East Region Calls on Drivers to Make a Change in 2025
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in eastern Ontario are calling on all drivers to be part of the change that makes our roads and highways safer.
There were 72 fatal collisions in East Region OPP jurisdiction in 2024, resulting in the deaths of 81 people. Major factors in last year's fatal crashes:
Speed: 26
Inattentive/distracted: 16
Alcohol/drugs: 12
No seatbelt: 10
"This is why we are out on the highways looking for those who deliberately choose to drive at dangerously high speeds”, says Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander. “When we say, 'slow down', it's about preventing tragedies. It's about ensuring moms, dads, sons, daughters, friends and loved ones all get safely to their destination."
So far in 2025, East Region OPP officers have investigated 11 fatal collisions, in which 13 people have lost their lives. In each case, officers have had to knock on a door and tell family members that a loved one has been killed.
We urge everyone who gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, to think about what it would mean if you NEVER came home again. Slow down, never drive impaired, keep your eyes on the road ahead - not your phone, and always fasten your seatbelt. If you ride a motorcycle, the same message applies, but swap helmet for seatbelt.
OPP officers can be anywhere, but we can't be everywhere. If you see someone driving dangerously and feel that lives are at risk, call 9-1-1.
NGCC Team Skipped by Dave Brown 2025: l-r: Lester McInnis 3rd, Dave Brown Skip, Jim Dolan Lead, John Boos Second
North Grenville Science Fair: Where curiosity meets creativity
by Talia Hreljac
On Thursday, March 20th, over 215 projects in 12 different categories were showcased at the North Grenville Science Fair. Gone are the days of creating the biggest volcano and hoping for a win—these Grade 7 and 8 students put in incredible effort to test some truly important hypotheses. Topics ranged from soil growth and telephone use to various diets, and some subjects were so complex that most people couldn’t even spell them. These future leaders have proven that our world is in great hands with them. This incredible initiative was made possible through the outstanding efforts of Matthew Wilson, a beloved teacher at North Grenville. Judging was carried out
by high school students, members of the Rotary Club, community members, and retired faculty. Not only did the community have the chance to see these fantastic experiments, but the Grade 4, 5, and 6 students from Southbranch Elementary also had the amazing opportunity to witness the creativity and passion of their older peers. Their eyes were wide with amazement as they realized they, too, would soon be able to dive into their own scientific explorations. The award winners from each category will have the chance to compete at the Rideau St. Lawrence Fair on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. I have no doubt they will make us proud.
For a full list of winners, please visit www.ngtimes.ca. Congratulations to all the students who worked so hard— you're destined for great things!
Photo Courtesy of D Marlay
Jadyn Clifton and Olivia Parker
Madilyn Eldridge and Audrey Maxwell
Gus Wright and Zachary Roberts
Abigail Lohnes and Callie Thomson
The many ways you can VOLUNTEER in North Grenville
KD Hospital andrerancourt16@gmail.com
SKBP Venturers skbp.venturers@gmail.com
Girl Guides membergrowth@girlguides.ca
NG Art Challenge jayne.couch@yahoo.com
NG Art Guild northgrenvilleartsguild@gmail.com
Beth Donovan Hospice amy.tibben@bethdonovanhospice.ca
Oxford Mills Community Association susannelarner@gmail.com
Kemptville Youth Centre brucewehlau@hotmail.com
Friend of the NG Library blrousseau26@gmail.com
NG Historical Society karenrepta@gmail.com
Rotary corabeking54@gmail.com
Christian Reformed Church sidypma@gmail.com
United Church gowjb5@gmail.com
House of Lazarus cashby@houseoflazarus.com
Youth Alliance: ng.rainbowyouth@gmail.com
Seniors' Community Services jill.woodley@seniorscs.ca
Shalom Small Homes shalomsmallhomeskemptville.org
The NG Library sjones@ngpl.ca
Friends of the Forestry Centre ldpaibomesai@gmail.com
Kemptville & District Community Assn. wdembleton@gmail.com
BIA shelleybmitchell@gmail.com
Pride chair@ngpride.ca
Lions Club mikeamirault@hotmail.com
Knights of Columbus, Council 5333 Leeds Grenville Big Brothers Big Sisters Vanessa.martin@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Canadian Guide Dog Assoc Info@guidedogs.ca Jags kemptvillejags@gmail.com
Pentacostal Church kohls.s.m@gmail.com
United way Ed@uwlg.org
North Grenville Giving Garden michelleroussellemcevoy@gmail.com
Kemptville Farmers' Market kfmmanager1@gmail.com
Kemptville Restore kemptvillerestore@habitat1000islands.org
The Salvation Army kemptville.office@salvationarmy.ca
North Grenville Community Theatre info@ngct.ca
COMMUNITY EVENTS
RECURRING EVENTS
Knights of Columbus Monthly Supper at Holy Cross Church Hall 503 Clothier Street West. Suppers are held at 5:30 p.m. on the last Thursday of each month, September to November and January to May. Cost $10 per person, $5 for a child under 12 and $25 for a family.
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.
LEGION EUCHRE will be held at 100 Reuben St., the 3rd Saturday of each month. Registration starts at 12:30, with Euchre starting at 1:00. Cost is $5 to play - cash prizes. 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 Lunches are offered to everyone every Friday. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship and fellowship 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. Friendship Café is open to the community Tuesday's 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. At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. St. John’s Drawing Circle is every Friday at 4 pm (jan 10 - mar 28). This is a 3 hour drawing studio with life drawing models (clothed) for artists of all ages and abilities. Cost is $120 for 12 weeks or $15.00 for drop ins. RSVP please Jennifer at gowjb5@gmail.com At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. Tuesday Community Hub hosted by the House of Lazarus All are welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, 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”. Upstairs at St. John's United Church at 400 Prescott St. Modern Square Dancing in Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:309:30pm. North Grenville Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Debbie at 613-795-3032 or Google "Kemptville Square Dancing"
Saturday Art Social every Saturday morning at the NG Public Library! 10 am - 11:30 am at the NG Public Library. Free with basic materials provided
NG Pride will be hosting an 2SLGBTQI+ and allies Seniors Meeting up on the first and third Sunday of each month between 2 - 4pm. Join us for games, cards, snacks and conversation at the NG Public Library.
KLUB 67 invites all euchre players to join us every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month for a fun social game of euchre. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben St. Registration starts at 12.30, play starts at 1pm. Cost is $5 to play – cash prizes given.
EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, April 1, 15, 29, May 13 and 27. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com
BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, April 8, 22, May 6 and 20. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ ymail.com
North Grenville Men’s Shed
A men’s shed provides a safe and friendly environment for men to socialize and/or do projects.
Contact: Peter Ivay 343 598-1174 or website ngmensshed. com for scheduled meetings on the calendar and additional information.
Malala Women’s Choir
Invites you to explore uplifting music for treble voices. Rehearsals: Wednesday evenings 7:00 – 9:00 pm, March 5– May 28, 2025. At St. Andrew’s Knox Presbyterian Church, 23 Bennett St., Spencerville. To register: contact Sheila at 613-658-5290 or sheilafawcett92@gmail.com No previous choral experience required.
Membership fee: $35
KSK Euchre Night. 3rd Wednesday of every month. Doors open at 6:30, games start at 7 pm, $5 to play. Kemptville Snowmobile Klub, 1505 O'Neil Rd Kemptville Horticultural Society - meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. The are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church.
UPCOMING EVENTS
March 27
100 Men Who Care NG
Time: 6:00 pm. 1st Quarter meeting. Supporting over 35 local charities and making a positive impact is what our dedicated group is all about. We meet every 3 months for socializing, networking and fun to select the next three charities to support with our membership donations each to make a significant difference in the community. See 100menng. ca for details. at Catered Affairs
March 28
Open Mic Night
Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Hosted by Kemptville Youth Centre A youth showcase of talent and creativity! Coffee bar style beverages and snacks. Youth can register to perform or claim a behind the scenes roll with staff, talk to Jamie, Grace or Roxanne.
KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE
March 29
2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Time: 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm . Award-winning works from around the world. Tickets available on Eventbrite: https:// www.eventbrite.ca/
The PEWS 100 St. Lawrence Street, Merrickville
March 30 & 31
Spring Makers Market. Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags to carry their finds, and parking will be available nearby. Merrickville Community Centre 106 Read St, Merrickville March 29, 30, April 4, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13
Mary Poppins
Time: 3:30 pm. Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company Tickets are $22 @ www.kymtc.org or at Brewed Awakenings.
Urbandale Arts Centre in Kemptvill
April 5 & 6
Maple Weekend. Time: 10:00 am Hosted by the Rotary Club of Kemptville and the Kemptville Youth Centre Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast. Family fun activities include tours and live music. Suggested donation $10 adults & $5 children (under 10) Visit Eventbrite to make reservations: https://www.eventbrite.ca/. Agroforestry Centre, 2627 Bedell Rd.
April 13
Wizard Card Game Tournament. Time: 12:30 pm
Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com. Pierce's Corners, 3048 Pierce Road.
The Food Corner
by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville
The old grey filing box where we keep our heritage recipes yields some interesting bits of paper. Today's recipe, Great-Grandma's Sour Cream Cookies is typeset in an old font on a yellowed newspaper clipping. We are very fond of recipes from our past and we hope you are too. Great-Grandma's Sour Cream Cookies
Ingredients: ½ cup of raisins
¼ cup of shortening
¼ cup of softened butter (not melted, just softened)
1 cup of packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon of vanilla
¼ teaspoon of nutmeg
½ cup of sour cream
2 ¼ cups of flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon of cream of tartar or 1 teaspoon of baking powder
½ teaspoon of salt
Some white granulated sugar for topping
Preparation:
1. Preheat your oven to 350F.
2. Pour boiling water over the raisins to plump them, drain and let dry
3. Cream the shortening, butter and brown sugar together
4. Beat in the egg, nutmeg and vanilla; then, stir in the sour cream
5. Sift together the flour, soda, cream of tartar and salt
6. Blend in gently to the creamed mixture and stir in the raisins
7. Chill the mixture for 20 minutes
8. Then roll out the dough on a floured surface to about a 1/3 thickness
9. Cut out with a 3 inch cookie cutter or water glass
10. Place on a lightly greased baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar
You will want to bake these for 10 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. If you wish, you can get an Easter cookie cutter and make designs to delight the kids. Serve ‘em hot or cold and let me know how it went at pcormier@ ranaprocess.com.
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR SALE
Shop vac Stanley stainless steel 4.5 Peak HP with leaf blower attachment paid $125/Sell $ 60 or best offer. Call 613 258 0445 leave message
Sky Caddie Lynx golf watch x 1 with USB charging cable sell $60 used once ,T9 voice caddie golf GPS watch never used. Paid $450.00 /sell $300 All
packaging in place. Call 613-258-0445 leave message
Four wardrobe boxes for sale complete with hanging rods. Two are large (46.5"X20.5") and two are shorter (34"X24"). $60 for the four. Call or text 613882-4652
500 bales of Golden Oats straw. great for horse bedding. All kinds of horse Drawn
Machinery, Saddles and harnesses of all makes . Call after 7 613.256.3561U
LAND FOR RENT
to farm. High producing for soy bean and corn. Reasonable to the right farmer. Call 613.258.3561
REDI in Leeds Grenville
- Health Workforce Innovations,
Matt Wren – City of Brockville, MPP
- Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke - Warden United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, Meaghan Edwards – Program Advisory for Ministry of Labour Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Mayor Nancy Peckford –North Grenville, George Smitherman – Health Workforce Innovations
The Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office hosted over 65 attendees, inclusive of employers, business support agencies, and new immigrants for a workshop that featured information on the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program at the Brockville Country Club on Tuesday, March 18.
Steve Clark, MPP, and Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Warden for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, brought greetings to the morning's healthcare session, with representatives from various Family Health Organizations, Hospitals, along with Retirement and Longterm care facilities.
MPP Clark, shared the REDI journey and the importance of taking advantage of this program. “We have a tremendous opportunity in our region to use the pilot program this year to bring in new physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, PSWs, technicians, and other healthcare providers,” he said, adding, “Our government is committed
to a number of initiatives to train more people to work in our healthcare system.
As that work continues, REDI provides us with a unique opportunity to help ourselves. Let’s make sure we capitalize on it.”
Warden Smith-Gatcke thanked Mr. Clark for advocating that Leeds Grenville be included in the program.
"Talent Attraction and Workforce Development is a key strategic area of focus for the Counties; REDI is a pathway to permanent residency for up to 200 skilled foreign workers who already have a job offer." She said, adding "the need for family physicians and other healthcare professionals is significant and Counties Council didn’t hesitate in being part of the REDI pilot program.”
Sherri Fournier Hudson and George Smitherman from Health Workforce Innovations were introduced by Counties Warden. The Counties, along with Brockville, Prescott, and Gananoque have invested more than $168,000 in 2025 towards their services of securing Health Human Resources.
Three sessions were
ACROSS
1. Border 5. Broadcasts 9. Tumbled
13. A certain cut of meat 14. Notions 16. Double-reed woodwind 17. Adhesion
18. End of life
19. Noose material 20. Grain disease
22. Scribe 24. Makes a mistake 26. Fables 27. Chase
30. Gripping tools
33. Not rated 35. Scallions
37. Bowling target
38. Our planet
41. US spy agency
42. Personnel
held, each addressing multiple industry sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and construction, with an open session for any business and interested applicants. The goal of each session was to help attendees better understand the REDI program process and its purpose to assist employers with making informed decisions regarding talent attraction and retention.
Employers who are struggling to find a skilled workforce to meet business goals can consider innovative strategies under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Leeds Grenville employers could utilize OINP and the Regional Economic Development through Immigration pilot program to address these shortfalls. For more information on the REDI program visit www.investleedsgrenville.com/redi, or email econdev@uglc.on.ca.
45. Conceding
48. Distributed
51. Gallivant
52. A small island
54. Pitcher
55. Cravings 59. Inventory 62. Scheme
63. Vacation destination
65. Computer symbol
66. Traded
67. Put out
68. What we're called
69. Flock members
70. Office fill-in
71. Delight DOWN
1. River to the North Sea
2. A swinging barrier
3. Spicy cookie
4. Give one's approval to 5. Assist
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
6. Mid-month days
7. Respond
8. Ancient Persian governor
9. Realize beforehand
10. Anagram of "Bone"
11. Easy gait
12. Lascivious look
15. Carnival setup man
21. Not false
23. Facial covering
25. Adjacent
27. Young dogs
28. Divisions of quantity
29. Darjeeling or oolong
31. Multiplicative inverse
32. Hides
34. Arid
36. Wise
39. Small songbird
40. In this location
43. Pals 44. A gathering or event
46. Rules and regulations
47. Eating sparingly
49. Excuse
50. Hate
53. Josh
55. Abbey area
56. Farm equipment 57. Wan 58. Lowlife
60. Draw near 61. Leg joint
64. Aware of latest trends
Left to Right: Ann Weir - Leeds Grenville Economic Development Manager, Sherri Fournier Hudson
Mayor
Steve Clark
Nourish to Flourish
by Dana Douglas, MScFN, RD, South East Health Unit
Sociocultural Wellbeing:
Food connects families, communities and cultures. Dietary patterns are a reflection of who we are. From family traditions to cultural and religious practices, food is more than just nutrients –it connects us to our families and communities, and helps shape our identities. Schedules, cooking skills, lifestyle choices, family dynamics, access to food and budget constraints all influence food choice. Acknowledging and addressing these influences is essential to empower individuals to develop healthy, fulfilling dietary patterns that are aligned with their values and circumstances.
Some nutrition-related tips that support sociocultural wellbeing include:
- Plan meals and snacks in advance to save both time and money. Consider what's on sale and what foods you have in your refrigerator, freezer and pantry that need to be used.
- Prepare ingredients in advance when you have time, and cook and freeze extras for quick meals on days when you're busier.
- Eat meals with others when possible whether it be family, friends, coworkers or neighbours.
- Eating together allows for role modelling, sharing favourite dishes and connecting with others in a social environment. It is important for children, youth and adults alike!
Emotional Wellbeing: Having awareness of and taking control of our emotional connections with
food can help support balanced eating. Emotional eating is part of everyday life. Eating can bring happiness, ease tension and create distraction. People also have positive or negative memories linked with specific food choices that influence their preferences. Emotional eating can become a problem however, when feelings are avoided, which can lead to ignoring hunger and fullness cues, and unbalanced eating.
Learning to self-regulate food intake starts in childhood. When caregivers use responsive feeding practices that respect children's hunger and fullness cues, children learn to self-regulate their own intake and develop eating autonomy. For adults, using mindful eating practices can help us understand our emotional
connections with food. This can promote balanced eating habits by identifying triggers and finding alternative coping mechanisms. Practice mindful eating by listening to and respecting our hunger and fullness cues, taking the time to enjoy the taste and aroma of food without distractions, creating a pleasurable eating environment, and enjoying meals with others when possible. Additionally, practice using healthy coping strategies like exercise, walking, gardening, mediation, socializing etc. to help manage stress.
For more information, visit the Health Unit's website at healthunit.org, connect with us on Facebook or X @LGLHealthUnit, or call 1-800-660-5853.
REPAIRS RENOVATIONS
Are we as old as our arteries?
Sir William Osler was a wise old owl in explaining medical matters. He was a professor of medicine at McGill University in Montreal, John Hopkins University in Baltimore, and, finally, at Oxford University in England. He told students, "We are all as old as our arteries, and it's lucky to have good rubber in them." If you're lucky, you'll have soft flexible ones that expand with each heartbeat. But you're unlucky if you have rigid ones that cause hypertension, one of the big killers. Are you interested in a natural remedy to fight high blood pressure, decrease the risk of stroke, and extend longevity? NEO40, a nitric oxide supplement, may be the right option.
Discovering the nitric oxide molecule came as a surprise to researchers. For 100 years it was well known that nitroglycerine was a powerful explosive. It had been used in warfare and for many other purposes. Doctors also knew that patients who were suffering from angina could have chest pain quickly eased by using nitroglycerine. But they had no idea what was in nitroglycerine to cause coronary arteries to expand and bring blood full of oxygen to hearts crying out for help.
Researchers discovered that it's the miracle molecule, nitric oxide (NO), which in nanoseconds sends messages to coronary arteries and other cells. NEO40 is nitric oxide in tablet form.
Early in life, the body produces large amounts of NO in the innermost lining of blood vessels. But, as we age, it's not surprising that the supply gradually decreases. This results in narrowing of arteries, the onset of hypertension, and the medical complications associated with this disease. Left untreated, chronic high blood pressure damages the arteries, causing a chemical and inflammatory reaction that kills a North American every 37 seconds.
NO offers many other advantages. It makes platelets, small particles in the blood, less likely to stick together, forming a fatal blood clot and coronary death. It also increases good cholesterol, lowers bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and prevents bone destruction from osteoclasts.
Fortunately, it helps to control the worldwide pandemic of diabetes that is killing millions of people. Too much sugar gradually destroys the circulatory system, and fifty percent of diabetic patients die of a heart attack. The other medical complications of diabetes, such as blindness, kidney failure, and amputation of, often, both legs, are also increasing in North America.
Millions are also suffering from respiratory problems, as all of us are living in a world with extensive air pollution. Researchers at Hammersmith Hospital in London, England found that NO helps to maintain a biochemical balance in air passages and that it could be helpful in treating inflamed airways. A Dutch study found that NO can calm nerves in tightened airways and relax muscles.
There are also millions of North Americans who suffer from debilitating diseases like arthritis. Researchers at the University of Colorado report that NO increases the blood supply to nerves and eases joint inflammation; This can be of great help to those suffering from the pain of osteoarthritis.
Today, more people are travelling to places like Mexico City, or to ski resorts at high altitudes, like Aspen, Colorado. They're both over 7,000 feet above sea level, where oxygen is more limited, and shortness of breath can be a serious problem. Be prepared for such visits by taking NEO40 in your baggage.
NEO40 is a lozenge that contains L-citrulline, an amino acid derived from protein, vitamin C, beet root, and hawthorn, a potent combination that produces nitric acid.
Osler was right. You live longer with good rubber. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly enewsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones
Baldwin's Birds
Is Spring really here?
Somewhat tongue in cheek, I pose the question as to whether, or not, Spring is actually here! The sun is shining, and some Red winged Blackbirds, mainly males by the look of them, are squeezing their odd, but distinctive song from somewhere in their throats. Being males, and always wanting to show off for the females, none of them so far observed have actually given us a good display of their epaulettes, which is quite a disappointment. Of course, our garden is not near to their normal habitat, that of the riversides and marshes, so maybe that is the explanation. Once the thaw is in, and they can get back to thinking of mating and nesting, then maybe changes will ensue.
There certainly isn't a big influx of migratory birds yet, although a few skeins of overhead Canada Geese are now evident in
the surrounding countryside, which is promising. The sunshine and rising temperatures will certainly make it a lot easier for them to land, once the waters are cleared of ice.
As mentioned recently, the Robins are starting to show themselves, and will soon be seen hopping across the grass and cocking their heads to listen for grubs and worms, whilst also looking for a shelf, or cleft in a tree, on which to build their nests. The frost will have to be out of the ground first for them to be doing these activities, so I am probably getting a bit ahead of myself, and them, in my enthusiasm for some warmth to return to us once again, and stay! Already, the green shoots of upcoming flowers tell me that I might not be wrong. I hope so! Stay safe and well.
Cheers, John Baldwin
Spring Car Care 2025
Ogilvie’s Auto & Fleet Service is at the forefront ready to provide exceptional vehicle services in the Smiths Falls and surrounding areas. With a team of highly skilled technicians and industry-leading equipment, we take the worry away from our customers ensuring their vehicles are safe, dependable and long-lasting.
We can service all makes and models - including heavy duty vehicles such as motorhomes, trailers and commercial trucks. We are a DriveOn certified centre and can provide emissions and safety inspections.
We are your one stop shop service facility – call us today at (613) 283-7444. It’s Worth The Drive!
Redwing Blackbird
Talia's Take: Dancing Through Mom Guilt
by Talia Hreljac
How to Balance
a Thriving Career and Motherhood
Mom guilt happens to all of us; no matter what we do, we're constantly questioning whether it's the right decision. But, today, I want to focus specifically on the guilt that comes with being a working mom. It's that feeling many of us get when we can't dedicate most of our time to our kids because we also have a career we need to focus on. I do want to acknowledge that stayat-home moms have an incredibly tough job too, and likely experience their own version of Mom guilt. But for the purpose of this article, I'm speaking to the "career moms."
I often experience Mom guilt; like when I can't pick up my kids early from school like they want me to, or when I have to leave in the evening to attend networking events. Or when I have to spend time in my office working instead of playing board games with them. There are so many moments when I feel like I'm working too much; but I also have to remind myself that working brings me joy and so much satisfaction. I mean, would I say no to being a trophy wife? Probably not! The work I
do supports the community and helps so many businesses. It allows me to share the stories of my friends, neighbours, and local community. It may be small, but it does make an impact, and that's good for my soul.
However, that doesn't stop me from wondering if my working is negatively impacting my kids; because, let's be honest, that Mom guilt can be strong.
But something happened this week that made me think that maybe, just maybe, working is also doing some great things for my family outside of just the financial aspects. It happened on Wednesday when I was getting ready to go to the Let's Network event. I looked down from my room and saw my girls dancing together in the driveway. It was one of those rare moments when they weren't fighting and were actually having fun together. My Mama heart just burst. Then, from the corner of my eye, I noticed a bowl at the end of the driveway, and I thought, "Oh gosh, I know exactly what they're doing." After I finished getting ready, I went downstairs and asked what they were up to. Sure enough, they were dancing and had placed the bowl at the end of the street in
case anyone wanted to give them money for their performance. I couldn't help but laugh and said, "Girls, you can't just hustle the neighbours for cash." And their response? "Well, you're a businesswoman, and so are we."
That response honestly took my breath away. First, I was so touched that they wanted to be like me. Second, I wondered if they were telling people that I dance for money – which, by the way, would be totally fine, but if you've seen me dance, you'd know that no one would pay to see that! Regardless, I was so proud that my kids were already thinking like little entrepreneurs and were working together to create a little business. And all that stems from them seeing me work hard. They see me finding myself, forging my own path, and doing things that bring me joy, even when I'm scared that my decisions might not be the right ones.
Don't get me wrong: I still felt a bit guilty going out that night, but the event was amazing. I got to speak with over 40 incredible women, each with their own inspiring story, and it truly filled my heart. After the event, I felt recharged. I felt a little more like myself. And when I returned home, I had more energy and patience to give to my kids, simply because I took the time to do something for me.
So, whenever that Mom guilt rears its ugly head, remember this: you're also showing your kids how to work hard, pursue their dreams, and break those glass ceilings, if they want to. You're teaching them that it's okay to follow your passion and balance both career and family, all while still being a present and loving parent.
