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Sustainability Fair on this weekend!
Mo er’s Day Buffet
COLD TABLE Salads, Cheese & Meats Gazing snacks, Hors- d’oevres
A LA CARTE COOK STATION Ricotta Pancakes, Omelette’s Eggs your way
HOT TABLE Classic German Schnitzel & Sides, Breakfast Meats, Eggs Benedict
DESSERT TABLE
Adults $45 / 12 & Under $22
Submitted by Sustainable North Grenville
This Sunday, April 27, Sustainable North Grenville (SNG) is excited to be hosting the 16th annual Sustainability Fair and EV show at the North Grenville Municipal Centre from 10-3. The event draws visitors from all over the region who come to enjoy dozens of vendors and community groups, partake in mouth-watering local baking and cooking, test drive a new EV, and be serenaded by local musical talent. All for FREE!
A family-friendly event, kids can check out the many fun and interactive booths, and can hang out in the Kids’ Zone as long as they like. RVCA will be there with their microscopes examining underwater bugs, and kids can get their hands in the dirt to plant seedlings. And of course, there will be an arts and crafts station where kids can unwind and focus on a creative project.
The 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. Here’s this year’s line-up:
• 10 am: Nature Journaling – Local artist Meredith Luce will share how to focus your senses, be present in the moment, and grow your curiosity to develop a connection with nature.
• 11 am: SaveON Home Renovation Savings program –Chris Weissflog, a local renewable energy and building efficiency proponent, will explore what’s in Ontario’s new energy retrofit incentive program.
• 12 pm: All things EV –Jeff Knapp has driven many EVs since 2017. He’ll discuss a range of topics, such as how EVs compare to combustion engine vehicles, and also bust the myths that continually show up in social media.
• 1 pm: Air-source heat
pumps – Tim VanderMeer is a local HVAC designer who specializes in energy efficient homes. He will explain how heat pumps work, and how they can be adapted to a range of homes.
• 2 pm: Naturopathic summer first aid – Dr Shawn Yakimovich ND, a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, will cover 10 natural remedies for common acute summer situations for the whole family.
Electric Vehicles in the Arena
Come and see many of the latest vehicles available on the market today, some of which you can sign up and test drive onsite. We are happy to welcome six of our local dealerships this year: Myers Kemptville Chevrolet Buick GMC, Barrhaven Ford, Star Motors of Ottawa Mercedes-Benz, Otto’s BMW, Myers Manotick Jeep Ram Dodge Chrysler, and Donnelly Mitsubishi. We
will also have onsite Weagant Farm Supplies to showcase the commercial line of Greenworks outdoor power equipment. The strength of our show is always our friends and neighbours who bring their personal vehicles to show and discuss performance in our area and our climate. Come ask your questions and see the latest technology!
Enjoy Local Food
While you explore the fair, be sure to stop by The Boathouse Café, a new local favourite from the historic hamlet of Burritt’s Rapids. They’ll be serving up a variety of fresh, locally sourced meals, snacks, and beverages—including vegetarian, vegan and omnivorefriendly options.
Live Music All Day
Music lovers can enjoy performances throughout the day, alternating between informal ‘busking’ sets in the foyer and stage performances inside.
Cont'd on page 2
Kemptville Buskerfest expands
The
– 3pm this Sunday, and is FREE!
by Sierra Jones-Martel, Chair of the Kemptville Buskerfest Organizing Committee
the making, and now it comes with even more reason to celebrate:
is deeply proud of what’s being built together with the community.
Want to Be Part of It?
Mark your calendars: Kemptville Buskerfest is back for not one, but TWO days of fun, magic, and unforgettable street performances! Happening May 16 and 17 over the May Long Weekend, the festival is growing, glowing, and gearing up for its biggest year yet.
Stay tuned for a BIG announcement as Buskerfest officially expands to two days for the very first time. Friday evening/night will bring something brand new to the community. We're keeping those plans under wraps a little longer, but trust us: you won’t want to miss it.
This exciting expansion has been months in
Kemptville Buskerfest has been recognized with two major awards!
An OBIAA Award for Special Events: Presented by the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association; and a Civic Award for Community Involvement, to be officially received at the awards ceremony on May 13, 2025.
These honours are a reflection of the incredible heart and hard work behind the scenes. The Kemptville Buskerfest Organizing Committee, a volunteer-powered team,
Join Our Volunteer Team! We’re currently welcoming new volunteers to help us deliver another spectacular Buskerfest. Whether you're greeting guests, assisting performers, or supporting behind the scenes, this is your chance to be part of an award-winning community event.
Apply to volunteer here: https://forms.gle/ Ra7fkN5iUiUCPb7A9. More info at: www.KemptvilleBuskerfest.ca
toe-tapping tunes of the Heroic Mad Peasants, with the harmonious sounds of Tripoly closing out the afternoon.
event is on from 10am
Members of the Buskerfest Committee proudly pose by the 2025 banner on the bridge in Downtown Kemptville.
Send in your letters to the editor
Plant an Extra Row –feed your neighbour in need
by Barbara Rousseau
As we are all fully aware, the cost of living for everyone has skyrocketed. If you are a gardener, while planning this year’s crops, please consider planting one extra row for those who need the nourishment but who are lacking access. It can be simple as an extra tomato plant or as big as a row of carrots or beets. The seeds cost minimally but the benefit is enormous. A senior living in an apartment on a fixed income, the young family trying to make ends meet every month, the homeless couch surfing or living in the rough, they all need our care and consideration.
Both the Salvation Army and the House of Lazarus are both open to receiving fresh produce to distribute through their food banks. Just bring your extras, like those zucchinis, and they will make sure someone eats better.
Kay, a resilient lady turns 107 years old!
by Cecile Fortier
Kay Shimada, the “Grand Lady” of Kemptville Retirement Living, celebrated her 107th birthday with hundreds of friends, neighbours, and family around her. You could feel the tangible love for this lady. She looked absolutely stunning with her tiara, wearing a demure navy and white dress. The Mayor of North Grenville, Nancy Peckford, offered best wishes and presented Kay with a Birthday Certificate from the municipality.
A couple of young dancers performed a Lindy Hop dance especially for her. She was then given a beautiful bouquet of flowers by Ron, owner of Kemptville Retirement Living, and then a dance as they have done every year on her birthday. This was her second dance, as the first was offered by one of her fellow Residents. But, without missing a step, she followed her Beau with all eyes on them. How gracefully they waltzed across the dance floor. Two dances, two Beaus, what more could a 107yr old Lady want!
Many gifts and cards were given to Kay from her many friends. But the most special of all was the interview she gave to CTV for the news, with her children proudly keeping a close eye on their mother as she graciously answered their questions with such spontaneity. This resilient women will go on forever…
Your Next Adventure Starts Here!
2025 is calling—and it’s the perfect year to explore the world! Join Gravitate Travel for three exclusive Travel Talk events this spring, where you’ll connect with top travel experts, uncover the hottest new destinations, and exclusive show offers only available to attendees. Insider tips. Expert advice. Exclusive offers. Mark your calendar!
Plus, your ticket makes a difference! 100% of event proceeds support Community Living Kemptville. Reserve your spot & learn more: www.gravitate.travel/events-list/ Your dream trip is waiting—will you answer the call?
Moment of forever
by David Shanahan
Every election is important, so they say. After all, there was a time, not so long ago, when most of us would not have been allowed to vote for anything, much less for who should govern the entire country. We do take that for granted now, and I suppose that’s inevitable. Familiarity breeds, if not contempt, then apathy, perhaps. The voter turnout at various elections hasn’t reflected a wide appreciation of the privilege and right won over generations. The thing is, elections seem to come along so often, federal, provincial, municipal, that we do tend to undervalue them.
So, what do we do about that? If we’re really honest about things, we have to admit that the health of our democratic system in this riding is a little shaky. One political party has dominated the electoral scene since 1867, with just a few years in which a second party held the seat. Does that mean that the Conser-
Op-Ed
vatives have been so good at representing the riding that they have earned their dominance, or is it just a matter of inherited loyalty, simply a tradition without any real analysis of policies and performance?
Look at the situation with the other parties registered in this election campaign. The Greens and PPC seem to have given up any semblance of trying to convince voters. They didn’t bother turning up for an all-candidates meeting in Spencerville. They didn’t bother replying to a request by the Times for an interview in which they could state their case. Their websites are more than a little disappointing. The fact is they know they have absolutely no chance of winning, or coming close to winning in this riding, short of a political earthquake of unimaginable power. That is not a good look for any democracy.
Only the Liberals and the NDP agreed to an interview, though the one with the NDP didn’t happen through no fault of theirs. The Conservatives didn’t reply to the invita-
tion, and didn’t ask for advertising space in the paper. Perhaps they don’t think they need to advertise or promote their candidate, since it may be considered a foregone conclusion that they’ll win again.. And again. Once more, not a good look for a democracy.
This election, however, is not just another exercise in going through the motions. It does seem overly dramatic when people say this is a time of existential threat to the country, but that doesn’t make it untrue. Canada is facing a serious crisis to its economy, its very future, because of an ignorant and deluded fool who just happens to hold the Presidency of the United States. Now that is certainly not a good look for democracy!
It’s been a strange campaign. On the one hand, the day-to-day issues that would normally dominate debate are still relevant and concern the lives of citizens in a very profound and personal way. The cost of food, gas, housing, the lack of housing even, all of these
questions remain urgent and need to be addressed. But overshadowing all of these has been the question of Trump and which leader would be the best person to deal with that source of trouble over the next four years.
I think that, ultimately, that question is the one that may decide this election. If so, it places many voters in a serious dilemma. Do they continue to support their favoured political party, even of they believe a different leader would serve the nation better in a confrontation with Trump, and would be best placed to foster new economic and political links with other countries, the E.U., etc.? This is not an easy situation for anyone to navigate. Is it time to “lend” your vote to another party for this one election, in the belief that it is best for the country as a whole? Or do you stand by your party affiliation regardless of how you feel on about that choice? Party or country? Or is there even a need for that choice, if your party is the one you think is best equipped to handle our
God didn't make those little green apples
Greetings North Gremlin s. I was noticing an article recently from a source that calls itself, 'The Tyee'. I went looking to see who and what these guys were, and according to Wikipedia, “In 2007, The Tyee was recognized nationally by the Canadian Journalism Foundation with an Honourable Mention in the category of Excellence in Journalism for Small, Medium, or Local Media”.
The article in question was titled: 'The Conservatives' Last Gambit: Smear Carney'. It was written by Michael Harris...no, not THAT Mike Harris. It spoke of the most recent endorsement of Mr. Poilievre, by his mentor, former Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. Now what does that master of prorogue have in common with Benjamin Netanyahu and Viktor Orbán... both shining examples of democracy that has been perverted? The answer: Arthur Finklestein.
Who is Arthur Finklestein when he is at home? (did your mother ever use that expression?
Mine did) “Arthur Finkelstein, a brilliant pollster and political adviser who helped right-wing governments in the United States and around the world get elected — including those of Viktor Orbán in Hungary and Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel.” He is Harper's mentor also. What are his beliefs and tactics?
“He perfected the art of the political attack ad. In so doing, he transformed politics and became the most sought-after neoconservative political strategist in the world.”
“And that is where Pierre Poilievre finds himself with just two weeks left until election day. After sticking to his loop of slogans for the first few weeks of the contest, the polls showed that the old plan was not working. The Conservatives couldn’t improve
Poilievre’s personal ratings, so they had to bring Carney’s ratings down. That’s why Stephen Harper appeared at that rally south of Edmonton. He was there to trash the man he had once so highly praised.”(please note that all quotes so far, are the property of M. Harris of The Tyee).
With the debates looming, it will be all swift boating from here until April 28. 'Swift boating'? Yeah, me too...I had no idea: “a common expression for a campaign attacking opponents by questioning their credibility and patriotism in a dishonest manner. “(Wiki again?) [See John Kerry, Presidential campaign, 2004. Ed.]
So, what's the problem? This is just standard operating procedure in the wonderful world of U.S. politics. But we are not them. We habitually define ourselves in ways that show how different we are from Americans.
collective destiny in the coming months?
This issue of the Times is presented as an opportunity for citizens to think about it all in these last few days before the election. Many of you may have already voted, but many may still be trying to decide. Who knows what the future months and years hold for Canada and for this community? We’ve been promised a certain level of sacrifice will be needed on our part to deal with the fallout from Trump’s threats on our sovereignty and the integrity of our national life. This is a moment of forever, not just the usual regular electoral contest between political parties. But we get to decide, and that is something we can appreciate and take seriously. It’s our vote.
Funding to support this edition has been provided by a grant from the Covering Canada: Election 2025 fund, supplied by the Public Policy Forum, the Rideau Hall Foundation and the Michener Awards Foundation. The Times gratefully acknowledges this support
We would never teach children to treat their friends or siblings this way. We know that we should never treat each other this way. So why is it becoming all too common in our political practices? Obviously, some people think it is a good idea.
To me it is unacceptable. I learned a worrying 'truth' this past week: I fill out a questionnaire that purported to show that I was more 'conservative' in my priorities than otherwise. I was appalled at first. But, with some reflection I realized that it is not always the issues that drive us to check off certain boxes when voting. Sometimes it is more about the personalities. I happen to prefer those who try to get my vote by putting forth good ideas, aided by a positive approach. If you have to smear,defame, malign, vilify, discredit, disparage, (at last! A synonym alert!) your opponent to
bring them down to your level, that is insulting, rude, abusive, disrespectful, outrageous, and offensive (Wow! A second synonym alert in the same paragraph! Where's my Pulitzer?)
And just as sure as 'God didn't make those Little Green Apples', (song title) [See Glen
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Campbell. Ed.], you won't be winning my endorsement come election time.
Peter Johnson, Upper Oxford Mills
www.northgrenville.ca
What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events
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Your Vote, Your Future
Farzana Eskandari is a young Afghan writer and a student at the University of Ottawa. She is currently living in Canada. Born and raised in Afghanistan, she carries a deep passion for storytelling, justice, and education, especially when it comes to women's rights. Her writing is shaped by personal experience, resilience, and a strong desire to speak up for those who are often unheard. Farzana writes to connect with others, and to inspire conversations about identity, hope, and human rights. She believes that every voice matters, and through her words, she hopes to make a meaningful difference.
by Farzana Eskandari
Yesterday, while I was walking, my eyes caught a yellow sign with bold letters that read, "Vote Here." Somehow, those words took me back to the past, to a day when I was a little girl and went with my mother to vote. I have a vague memory of that day. It feels more like a dream, one of those early morning dreams where fleeting images pass before your eyes. They come and go, soft but powerful. I see my mother filling out the ballot, deciding who to vote for. I see her dipping her index finger into a dark blue ink bottle, a mark that she had voted. A young woman stamps my mother's voting card. She's a volunteer, wearing something light blue with words written on it: "Your vote, your future."
That phrase settled in my mind, and today, I find myself repeating it again and again: Your vote, your future. I remember how hopeful we were. I remember the slogans my classmates and I used to shout loudly at school: "The future starts here." Back then, I was too young to understand what it truly meant; but now, I feel with my whole being that the future really did start from there. I do not know how that future disappeared so silently in my school in Afghanistan.
The crowds that once
gathered to vote are gone. Women no longer have the right to vote; they do not even have the right to breathe freely. Those meaningful election days are now just a memory. Nowadays, people have even forgotten the word vote. I remember how much people cared about voting, how much energy, hope, and determination filled the air. Women led campaigns, stood tall, and spoke bravely. The youth were full of passion; writers, athletes, students and musicians all got involved. Most of the participants were young people, and I really admired their energy, their involvement, and their effort. Even elderly women, who could barely walk and relied on canes, made the effort to vote. Everyone was involved. Even though we knew the elections were not always fair, and corruption existed, people still gave it their all. They tried to shape their future; at the very least, they tried. Of course, there was corruption. There were areas controlled by extremist groups where people could not vote at all, but still, people tried. Women walked to the voting stations, even under their burqas. They made the effort. Here in Canada voting feels different. It seems like fewer people care. Many get so busy with their daily
lives that they forget elections are even happening. Many young people either do not vote or do not seem to care about voting, and even fewer get involved in public decision-making, which surprises me. How can the future not matter to them, when decisions are being made about them? Sometimes I feel like someone should gently remind them: Your vote, your future. They have a right that so many others have lost. They have the chance to vote freely, safely without fear, without pressure. Maybe voting seems like a small, simple act, but one vote can change a country. One vote can change lives. When people have the power to shape their future, why would they give that up? Why let someone else decide for them? I remember being a child, waiting for the day I would grow up and vote. When that day came, unfortunately, everything had changed. In the blink of an eye, it was gone. I never got the chance to vote.
As I stared at the yellow sign, lost in memory, my friend tapped me on the shoulder and said ‘hello'. I smiled and came back to the present. However, that phrase stayed with me: Your vote, your future.
Watching the English Leaders Debate with interest and worry!
By Doreen O’Sullivan
None of them is perfect! The big decision is which one will do the most good and least harm.
As a Municipal Councillor, I am concerned about the notion of decreasing DCs (Development Charges) to encourage more house
building. The DCs are what municipalities use to pay for the necessary infrastructure and services required to support new development. If the Feds encourage more housing development by reducing the DCs, it’s going to be your local mu-
nicipal government that will bear the brunt of this. And it’s important to note that municipalities can NOT run a deficit, which is a good thing. Unlike the Federal and Provincial/Territories who can run up huge deficits. The buck stops here! We must manage our municipality and do it within a balanced budget. As you know, your current council has strived to maintain and improve services while keeping your property tax increases very reasonable.
As you know, I am not a career politician. I am a retired RN, mother, grandmother and woman who believes in keeping our community safe and healthy. That includes financial health. Municipalities can’t
afford to have the Federal government “use” us to fulfill their promise for more housing by forcing us to cut DCs.
In my experience and simple common-sense mind, they need to explain to us how they will compensate municipalities if they force reduced DCs to build more housing.
I truly believe that our system of government in Canada will prevent any of them from becoming an unleashed dictator like there seems to be south of 49.
Democracy is to be cherished, protected and defended. Get out and VOTE!
End of my rant!
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
Elections Canada Monday, April 28, 2025
Covering Canada: Election 2025
Advance voting:
Friday, April 18, 2025
Saturday, April 19, 2025
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Monday, April 21, 2025
The North Grenville Times is presenting this special coverage of the 2025 Federal Election in the riding of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes as a service to residents. In addition to reviews of previous elections and Members of Parliament, we publish information from each of the candidates. Although all five parties received requests for interviews, only the Liberals and NDP candidates responded. Therefore, the sections on the other candidates is taken from their individual websites and other sources. Coverage does not imply any endorsement of a particular party or candidate by the North Grenville Times. This election special section has been made possible by a grant from the Covering Canada: Election 2025 Fund.
Our Vote
Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes candidates
Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes candidates
Michael Barrett Conservative Party
Michael Barrett,bConservative Party
LJ Edmonds, Liberal Party
Lorna Jean Edmonds Liberal Party
Paul Lancione New Democrat
Paul Lancione, New Democratic Party
Randi Ramdeen Green
Randi Ramdeen, Green Party of Canada
Hailey Simpson People’s Party
Hailey Simpson, Peoples Party of Canada
ELECTIONS 2025
Charles Ferguson - A Political Legacy
by David Shanahan
North Grenville has a rich history of contributing to Canadian political life. It provided the country with two provincial Premiers, in Ontario and Alberta, and the local federal riding was served by a number of North Grenville residents. One of these was Dr. Charles Ferguson, who was Member of Parliament for over twenty years.
Dr. Charles Ferguson was for many years until his death in 1909, a family doctor living in the large stone house on the corner of Clothier and Rideau Streets in Kemptville. Dr. Ferguson, whose parents emigrated from Ireland around 1830, had chosen Kemptville as the place to start his medical career after qualifying from the medical school at Queen’s University. He married a local girl, Elizabeth
Bell, whose family had also come from Ireland and settled in Oxford Station, and whose brother, Robert, was the founder of the Prescott and Bytown Railway.
Dr. Ferguson was extremely well liked in North Grenville, and was a passionate supporter of Sir John A. Macdonald from before Confederation. A family member once told an interviewer that, in Charles and Elizabeth’s house, the Holy Trinity were God, Queen Victoria and Sir John A. Macdonald, “though not necessarily in that order”. When the local M.P., Francis Jones, also of Kemptville, turned against Macdonald in 1873, Charles Ferguson went forward as the Conservative candidate in the 1874 election and sat as the local Member of Parliament until 1896. Although he never made it into Macdonald’s
Cabinet, Ferguson was very close to the Prime Minister, who visited the Ferguson’s at their Kemptville home on a number of occasions. Charles was responsible for having the South Branch dredged to allow boats to travel up to Kemptville from the Rideau Canal, and was repeatedly selected as Conservative candidate unopposed at election time.
But the political gene ran in both sides of the family, as was shown when Charles ran into his only serious political obstacle in 1891. For unknown reasons, the Conservative Party in Grenville chose someone else as their candidate, and Ferguson was left out in the cold. Undeterred, Elizabeth Ferguson arranged for her husband’s name to be put forward as the Independent Conservative candidate in the election. In spite of his popularity, it did not seem that Ferguson’s chances were very good, in a staunchly loyal Conservative constituency. But Elizabeth was not finished scheming. On election day, at every polling booth, voters found a sign pinned up reading: “ To the Conservatives of North Leeds and Grenville. I respectfully request your support for my old friend Dr. Charles Ferguson”. It was signed, “John A. Macdonald”. Dr. Ferguson won the seat comfortably.
Naturally, the official party candidate was furious, and demanded an explanation from Sir John. The Prime Minister declared his complete ignorance of any such communication to the voters and called Ferguson and his wife to his office in Ottawa to explain it. Facing Elizabeth directly, Sir John asked, “Who signed that
letter?”, to which Elizabeth calmly replied, “John A. Macdonald”. The Prime Minister declared angrily: “I never wrote that signature”. Elizabeth righteously retorted: “Of course not. That is the signature of John A. Macdonald, our blacksmith in Kemptville and a very old friend of ours.” The master political manipulator could only laugh and appreciate the cunning of another wily political animal. Dr. Ferguson served his term as M.P., but retired at the next election. It is, perhaps, interesting to note here that I can find no Macdonald blacksmith living in Kemptville in 1891, and the only John Macdonalds in North Grenville were farmers. Perhaps Elizabeth Ferguson was an even better and more wily politician than was realized by the Prime Minister?
Dr. Ferguson was an oldstyle Tory. The attic of the home on Clothier Street was equipped with a number of beds to accommodate passing tramps needing a place to stay. One man apparently stayed thirteen years, had his life changed completely, and became a preacher. Dr. Ferguson continued to take care of the people of North Grenville into his seventies. In the winter of 1909, he was called out to help a woman about to give birth. Another doctor had refused to go because the family could not afford his fee. Ferguson left his bed, did his duty and returned to sleep. He never woke up.
History is not something distant and unreal in North Grenville: it is a living stream in which we all move.
Past Members of Parliament
Arthur Meighan, The Prime Minister who was the local M.P., temporarily!
by David Shanahan
It is an interesting aspect of this riding that, since the first Confederation Parliament in 1867, it has been represented by a Conservative, under various guises, for all but 24 of its 158 years. Francis Jones, surveyor and businessman of Kemptville, was elected in 1867 as the first Conservative Member of Parliament for the riding. Under an agreement between the political parties, he ran unopposed that year. Although re-elected in 1872, the Conservatives lost power to the Liberals until the 1874 election returned them, but without Jones, who was replaced as the party’s candidate by another Kemptville resident, Dr. Charles Ferguson. Jones ran against Ferguson in the 1874, but lost by around 130 votes. Dr. Ferguson was to hold the seat for the Liberal Conservatives (for such was the party name under John A. Macdonald) for a total of 22 years, 3 months and 27 days. Francis Jones tried to regain the seat in 1878, but lost to Ferguson again, this time by only 36 votes.
The last federal election contested by Ferguson was in 1891, which was also Macdonald’s last one before his death. When Ferguson retired before the 1896 contest, his seat was taken by the Liberals, the winning candidate being Francis Frost, who had run against Ferguson twice, narrowly losing to him in 1891 by just 135 votes out of more than 2,500 cast. The Liberals had finally won in this riding, but their victory didn’t last long. Frost had won by a margin of only 9 votes. Four years later, Frost lost to John Lavell, Conservative.
John Reid held the seat between 1904 and 1921, during which time he also served as the Minister of
Customs, and was part of the Unionist Government set up in 1917 during the First World War. He was succeeded by a legendary figure in local politics. Arza Clair Cassleman who won his seat in the 1921 election. Almost immediately, he gave up the seat in favour of Arthur Meighan, who had been Prime Minister until he lost his seat in the election. At the urging of Ontario Premier, G. Howard Ferguson, Dr. Charles Ferguson’s son, Cassleman stepped down to allow Meighan to have a seat in the House of Commons. His self-sacrifice did him no damage, however. Returned in the 1925 federal election A. C. Cassleman held his seat for an worthy 32 years, dying in office in 1958. Interestingly, he was opposed in the five elections between 1945 and 1957 by other Casslemans, James Franklin and Arthur, Liberals. But it was his daughter, Jean, who succeeded to the seat in 1958. She continued in the House under her married name of Jean Wadds in 1965, but lost to Gordon Blair, Liberal, in 1968. In all, Casselmann father and daughter had led the seat for 42 years between them.
The Liberals only kept the seat for one term losing to Progressive Conservative, Walter Baker. From then until 1988, the riding remained with the Progressive Conservatives, under Baker until 1979, then Thomas Cossitt, who died in office to be succeeded by his wife, Jennifer, in 1982. Then came another flip to the Liberals, when Jim Jordon won the seat in 1988, to be followed by his son, Joe, in 1997.
In the 21st Century, the Conservatives have held on to the seat. Gord Brown, well-remembered as the M.P. from 2004 until his sudden death in 2018, when he was succeeded in a byelection by the current Member, Michael Barrett.
For those who enjoy seeing the stats and data, we’re publishing the full record of elections past, upon which this article is based.
It’s your vote – A century of progress
by David Shanahan
Women have taken a leading role in every sphere of life, private and public. Much has been changed, and much remains to be achieved.
The Suffragettes of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century were often veterans of earlier campaign for rights, such as abolition of slavery, amelioration of child labour laws, or the amazingly powerful campaign for Temperance and Prohibition that lasted into the 1930’s. Organisations like the Women Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) gave women experience of running national movements, political campaigns, and sharing executive positions with men. The LCBO was established as a compromise on the Temperance-Prohibition issue by the government of G. Howard Ferguson, native of Kemptville and one-time Reeve of that Village. Ferguson’s mother had been very active in the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, which may have had an influence on his policies as Premier.
The WCTU was a very influential organisation for many reasons. Not only was it part of a worldwide network campaigning for prohibition of alcohol, it also provided women with experience of political activism at a time when there were few outlets for such interest. Like the Sons of Temperance, the WCTU gave women an equal voice in political, educational and social activism in the nineteenth century. Built, as the name suggests, on an evangelical Christian base, the WCTU learned from experience that, without the vote, women were severely limited in what they could achieve. The Union broadened its scope and worked for enfranchisement of women, better education for all classes in society, and improved working conditions for women and working class men.
An illustration of how these women thought is seen in an 1899 statement: “Woman: first in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of her country, last at the ballot box”. In fact, the first time women were given even a limited vote
Evolution of a Riding
We live in an electoral riding with a rather long name, and a very long history. Leeds - GrenvilleThousand Islands and Rideau Lakes is only the latest incarnation of the voting region in which residents of North Grenville have cast their vote since Confederation.
Leeds North and Grenville North was a federal electoral district represented in the Canadian House of Commons from 1867 to 1904, created by the British North America Act of 1867 which allocated one member to the combined riding of the North Riding of Leeds and the North Riding of Grenville.
In 1882, the North Rid-
ing of Leeds and Grenville was defined to consist of the townships of South Elmsley, Wolford, Oxford, and South Gower, and the villages of Smith's Falls, Kemptville and Merrickville. The electoral district was abolished in 1903 when it was redistributed between Grenville and Leeds ridings. Grenville was a federal electoral district from 1904 to 1925. This version of the riding was created in 1903 from parts of Grenville South and Leeds North and Grenville North ridings. It consisted of the county of Grenville. The electoral district was abolished in 1924 when it was merged into Grenville - Dundas riding.
in Ontario was in the plebiscites on prohibition. Two of the Famous Five women who won constitutional recognition of women as “persons” in the 1920’s, Nellie McClung and Louise Crummy McKinnon, belonged to the WCTU. Historians refer to such activists as “evangelical feminists”, another phrase that requires a rethink of assumptions in today’s society.
Although Agnes McPhail was the first woman elected to the House of Commons in 1921, women were still denied the right to become a Senator, as the British North America Act of 1867 required that they be “persons”, which successive Canadian Governments had decided was a term that did not apply to women. In August 1927, Emily Murphy invited four prominent women activists Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Henrietta Muir Edwards, to join her in sending a petition to the Canadian government regarding the interpretation of the word “persons”. These women are known today as The Famous Five.
In 1928, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that women were not “persons” according to the British North America Act. Therefore, they were ineligible for appointment to the Senate. However, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council reversed the Court’s decision on 18 October, 1929. The Persons Case enabled women to work for change in both the House of Commons and the Senate. It also meant that women could no longer be denied rights based on a narrow interpretation of the law. They were now, legally and forever, “persons”.
Achieving the right to vote was a major victory for womens’ rights, and the rights of all citizens of Canada. Voting is a privilege, a right, and an opportunity, all of which is still denied to so many women around the world. It is a statement, a declaration, and an act in which the Suffragettes and the Famous Five are honoured and their legacy continued.
Electoral confusion in Grenville County
by David Shanahan
Elections are in the news these days, along with matters of voter suppression, a lack of voting places, and fears of tampering. This is not at all a new topic, nor is it one confined to our southern neighbours. Grenville County has quite a checkered history of its own when it comes to elections.
On January 15, 1845, the Legislative Assembly of Upper Canada heard a petition from William Harris and others complaining about the recent election of Dr Hamilton Dribble Jessup, a veteran Conservative, as Member of the County of Grenville. They had two main grievances. The first was that the Returning Officer had set up a polling station in North Gower and Marlborough, where residents had voted, in spite of the fact that neither township was within the boundaries of Grenville County. Although both had been part of the County before an Act of 1842 had reassigned them to Carleton, there was still, obviously, some uncertainty about the new boundaries. To add to the complexity of the election, the voters in these same two townships has been allowed vote for a Member for Carleton County in the election.
Grenville - Dundas, in turn, was a federal electoral district from 1925 to 1968, and consisted of the counties of Grenville and Dundas. The electoral district was abolished in 1966, when it was redistributed between Grenville - Carleton and Stormont - Dundas ridings. Grenville–Carleton was further reorganised and survived from 1968 to 1979. It was a very oddly-structured riding, with a confusing layout, consisting of the part of the City of Ottawa lying south of Base Line Road and west of Fisher Avenue; the Townships of Goulbourn, Marlborough, Nepean, North Gower and Osgoode, and Long Island (in the
Township of Gloucester) in the County of Carleton; the County of Grenville, including the Village of Merrickville, and the Townships of Matilda and Mountain in the County of Dundas.
This unwieldy electoral district was abolished in 1976 when it was redistributed between Leeds - Grenville, Nepean - Carleton, Ottawa Centre, Ottawa West, and Stormont - Dundas ridings.
Electoral boundaries change when populations increase and decrease, when the number of Members of Parliament changes, and, at times, when electoral reform demands. The future remains unclear.
The second grievance of Harris and friends was that the Returning Officer had placed the polling station for Grenville County in Kemptville, with none located in Prescott. The petition objected that Kemptville was “in the extreme rear of the said County of Grenville, a place inconvenient and improper for obtaining the true expression of opinion of the Electors of said County of Grenville”, leading to “great injury, wrong and inconvenience” to the Electors. The petitioners asked that the election of Jessup be declared void and a new vote arranged.
The Assembly received a second, and similar, petition on December 9, 1845 from R. Burritt and others, protesting about the same election and for the same reasons. Burrit referred to the “last Election, or pretended Election”, and was particularly upset that no polling station had been located in Prescott, which there should have been, by law. “For these an many other good
and valid reasons”, Burritt and friends also demanded that the election be voided and a new one held. The background to all of this seems to have been that the Conservatives had a majority support in the north of Grenville County, while the Reformers, later to be known as Liberals, held the south and the town of Prescott. The Returning Officer, it may be assumed, was a Conservative. Under the regulations governing this kind of appeal, it was required that petitioners commit to appear before the Assembly within a set period of time. For both Harris and Burritt, this period would expire on December 23, and this would be a serious difficulty, given the obstacles to travel in Winter in the conditions of 1845. The Reformers therefore asked that the period be extended to January 10. The vote on this was taken on strictly party lines, and the Conservatives prevailed. That party included John A. Macdonald, then a young man on the fringes of the party. Taking advantage, perhaps, of a temporary majority in the Assembly, the Reformers had that decision reversed on December 18, and Harris was given until January 10, 1846 to appear instead. However, Burritt was not included in this decision, and so, on December 20, his petition was rejected, as he had not committed to attending the Assembly in the time allowed. There is no record of why he was treated differently than Harris, nor why Harris was granted this reprieve. But he turned up on January 10, as required, and he was examined by a committee of members, as was Hamilton Jessup. It was quite a formal procedure, with W. B. Richards appearing on behalf of Harris, and Jessup representing himself before the Committee. The poll books, recording the votes ast at the election, were presented in evidence. Jessup had an interesting collection of witnesses on his side, including familiar names from the area, such as Truman Hurd, William “Squire” Bottom, Francis Jones all of whom lived on Clothier Street, as well as Asa Clothier and Henry Burritt.
It was the decision of the Committee on January 15,
Cont'd on pg 5
ELECTIONS 2025
Meet the Candidates for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand
Michael Barrett
Conservative Party
Michael Barrett is a dedicated elected representative in his third term and is the Conservative Shadow Minister for Ethics and Accountable Government for His Majesty's Loyal Opposition. In this critical role, he advocates for transparency, integrity, and accountability in government. His commitment to these principles is further demonstrated through his active participation on the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy, and Ethics.
He succeeded the late Gord Brown when the sitting M.P. died suddenly in 2018, and has contested and won his seat in 2019 and 2021, increasing his share of the vote in each contest. In the 2021 election, Michael Barrett won more than 50% of the votes cast.
Before his career in the House of Commons, Michael served our country in the Canadian Armed Forces as a Telecommunications Lineman, learning a skilled trade and participating in training, domestic operations, and disaster assistance. Following his service in the Armed Forces, he contributed at the local level as a Municipal Councillor in the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal, where he was known for being a champion of community issues.
In addition, Michael brings valuable experience from the private sector, where he worked as a Human Resources Manager, developing a deep understanding of workforce dynamics and the importance of ethical leadership.
Michael's journey from serving in the military, to local government, and now as a federal representative, exemplifies his unwavering dedication to public service. His experience across various levels of government and sectors provides him with a unique perspective that he brings to his current role, advocating for the rights and interests of his constituents with passion and integrity.
Michael and his wife Amanda are proud residents of Leeds-Grenville, where they are raising their five children: Luke, Ama, Michaela, James, and Nathan.
The Conservative Party, under various names, has held he seat in this riding for all but 24 of its 158 years since Confederation.
LJ Edmonds
Liberal Party
The challenge from Trump and tariffs has dominated the campaign, but, although we're not talking about the issues like we did in the provincial elections, I know what those issues are. So I don't need to hear them at the door. I know that number one is healthcare. I know education, I know the municipal infrastructure, I know housing and affordability, which are part of this campaign, are at the heart of what our riding needs to have addressed, and I'm in a really good position to be able to do both, because I have the background both in health and education and in executive leadership, but also because I have experience
Islands-Rideau Lakes
of working in the United States, across Canada, in Ontario and around the world.
Our riding has not grown the way that it has needed to, because we haven't invested in affordable housing. We haven't been able to maintain the quality of our education because, under the Ford’s leadership, he has reduced the per-student support to schools. And rural communities are more affected than urban communities because it's hard to maintain our student base. Our health care is in a serious crisis. We're overwhelmed in the emergency departments. And 25% of our community don't even have a family physician. Our municipal infrastructure is struggling because we have, I think province-wide, over five billion dollars of debt just in our municipal infrastructure. And again, rural communities are affected because without homes, we don't have a tax base to support them.
I am a proud Canadian politician today because I think, for the first time in a long time, Canadians are voting for Canada's future and Canada's well-being first and foremost before their partisan politics, their allegiances. I think that's the change that we needed. And that's a change that's happening in this riding. When I go door to door I am really, really thrilled to hear that they're voting for Canada and they're voting for Mark Carney because they know that he's the only person that knows how to navigate the situation that we're facing with Donald Trump, but also to lead us to new reliable partners across the country and around the world.
And he knows how to make the changes within government that need to be made to enable us to be successful in this new environment. In fact, this new environment can be very healthy for Canada. It will be hard, but he has made sure that he's going to keep our social safety net secure. And when you look at the plan, he's making sure that as we develop a plan, it is both an economic plan, it's a people plan, and it's an environmental plan. You know, he is a smart leader.
And that's what we need and I bring that also to the table. I have a lot of experience, as I've just mentioned. So it's a good time for our riding to vote Liberal because he's centered, I'm centered. We are here to serve everybody of all ages, and backgrounds and diversity. We're very inclusive. We know that diversity, equity and inclusion, when we're talking about everybody, is good for business and it's good for our health and well-being.
I think things have changed dramatically. I think you're going to see much more of a Canada agenda that is inclusive of our provinces, our territories and our First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. When you hear Mark Carney speak, he says when it comes to national policy, we're going to all do this together. And people are rising to that occasion. I think we have changed, because I think we've realized that we need to make sure that we have the right security and infrastructure to do business in Canada independent of any other country, but at the same time, to diversify so that we a balanced export and import agenda with the United States and elsewhere. And I think that's healthy for Canada.
Paul Lancione
New Democratic Party
Paul Lancione is a young progressive fighting against the threats of far-right extremism and American expansionism in this country. Paul received an Honours Bachelor of Arts with high distinction from the University of Toronto in 2022, and he now works in the financial services industry. He aims to be a voice for vulnerable people in his community and across Canada. In 2024, the federal budget made a modest fix: taxing a greater share of capital gains for those making over
$250,000. It still leaves much of that income untaxed—but closed a loophole that let the ultra-rich pay lower tax rates than working people.
Now, Carney and Poilievre want to scrap that fix—creating a $19 billion hole in the federal budget, according to budget estimates. In Quebec alone, it would cost over $600 million—money that could fund hospitals, schools, and housing.
Capital gains are profits from investments—like stocks or real estate—not wages. Yet for decades, only half of that income was taxed, while every dollar from your paycheque was. That means the wealthier you are, the more likely you pay a lower tax rate than someone who works for a living.
New Democrats will protect that revenue—and reinvest it where it counts:
Universal pharmacare, starting with essential medicines
A family doctor for every Canadian and more nurses and health care workers, to fix health care and reduce wait times
National rent control to bring down housing costs
Building millions of new homes people can afford
A grocery price cap, to stop price gouging by corporate grocery chains
Even Carney’s future cabinet ministers once defended this tax change. Chrystia Freeland called it “an idea that everyone who cares about fairness should support.”
The NDP will reform Employment Insurance so that workers can access the supports they pay into. That includes expanding EI to cover contractors and self-employed people who may lose their livelihoods, but also to help small businesses retain staff by offering EI top-ups to workers whose hours are reduced.
We’ll protect supply management in any trade deal, ensuring small family-owned farms aren’t pushed out by large American agri-businesses. The Liberals gave American companies access to 3.5 per cent of our dairy market - costing Canadian farmers an estimated $1.3 billion. The Conservatives, who dismantled the Canadian Wheat Board, have a poor track record on this too.
Meanwhile, investing in conventional energy infrastructure—like pipelines, as proposed by both the Liberals and Conservatives—won’t create jobs here or lower the cost of living. It would be a waste of taxpayer dollars, especially as renewables continue to outpace fossil fuels in cost and efficiency. We have the talent and the opportunity to make this riding a green-energy powerhouse—and the NDP is the only party willing to invest in that vision.
We’ll also invest in infrastructure and housing. This is one of the few areas in Ontario where homes are still relatively affordable, and we need to act fast to keep it that way. We’ll launch a building blitz of rent-controlled affordable housing, creating jobs and helping to solve the housing crisis.
The Conservatives say they’re for “average Canadians.” But when they cut taxes, it’s for the richest. When they talk about cutting red tape, they mean dismantling the protections that workers, consumers and small businesses rely on. And they keep harping on fictional culture war issues instead of solving real economic problems. Just look south of the border. Pierre Poilievre echoes Donald Trump’s rhetoric word for word. If elected, he’ll do to Canada’s economy what Trump is doing to the U.S.—and let the wealthiest hollow out government at the expense of everyone else.
People are tired of Liberal inaction, and I don’t blame them. But electing Conservatives won’t fix it. Regardless of who forms government, electing NDP MPs leads to better outcomes. We have a record of holding governments to account and delivering results for everyday Canadians. I grew up here. These are my neighbours, friends and family. Even if we don’t agree on every issue, I’ll show up, listen, and work hard for everyone in this riding.
Randi Ramdeen Green Party of Canada
Randi Ramdeen is a dedicated advocate for responsible governance, environmental stewardship, and a strong, resilient economy. Born and raised in Prescott, she attended school in Brockville and has deep roots in Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands–Rideau Lakes. With experience in public service, she has proudly represented the Green Party at both the federal and provincial levels, working to build a better future for all Canadians.
Randi believes in commonsense solutions that balance economic prosperity with sustainability. She is committed to strengthening rural economies, supporting small businesses, and ensuring families have access to good jobs, affordable housing, and quality healthcare. She knows that investing in local industries, infrastructure, and sustainable innovation is key to long-term success.
A strong believer in fairness, inclusion, and opportunity, Randi is dedicated to ensuring all Canadians, regardless of background, have a voice in shaping their future. She has worked extensively in leadership, public engagement, and advocacy, bringing people together across political and social divides to find practical, forward-thinking solutions.
At the federal level, Randi is focused on delivering policies that protect Canada's natural environment, grow the economy, and improve quality of life for working families. She understands the importance of collaboration and pragmatic leadership to tackle the challenges of today while building a prosperous, sustainable future for generations to come.
Randi Ramdeen is ready to bring strong, principled leadership to Ottawa -working for the people of Leeds-GrenvilleThousand Islands-Rideau Lakes and for a Canada that is fair, thriving, and prepared for the future.
Controversy after all-candidates meeting
by David Shanahan
It is not very common for politicians to actually say anything significant at all-candidate meetings these days. The usual strategy is to be cautious and not to give the opposition an opening. That was not the case at the all-candidates meeting which took plave in Spencerville last week. Sponsored by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, the event started off with a surprising lack of candidates.
The NDP’s Paul Lancione, Lorna Jean Edmonds of the Liberal Party, and the incumbent, Michael Barrett of the Conservative Party, took their places in the Drummond Building, but there was no sign of either the People’s Party of Canada’s Hailey Simpson or the Green Party’s Randi Ramdeen. Both of these candidates have kept a remarkably low profile throughout this election campaign, perhaps recognising the apparently insurmountable task ahead of them to win the seat. In past elections, neither party has won more than a small percentage of the votes.
But the real moment of
Hailey Simpson Peoples Party of Canada
Hailey Simpson is twenty years old and has called Leeds— Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes home for over a decade. Raised locally by two hard working parents, she learned early on the values of personal responsibility and perseverance.
Hailey’s passion for bringing forward populist solutions to fix our nation was sparked by a personal realization that the government does not always work in favour of the people. Instead, our current establishment is composed of career politicians that pander to party lines, special interest groups, corporations and global organizations—not Canadians.
Since early 2023, she has been at the forefront of building grassroots support for the People’s Party of Canada on the national level. Her work has contributed to building the fastest-growing conservative youth movement in the country, mobilizing young Canadians to take back their future and reclaim their country under the banner of the PPC.
As the National President of New Generation PPC, Hailey has witnessed firsthand the enthusiasm for a bold alternative to the broken political system. She believes that the PPC offers the most principled, common-sense solutions to conserve Canada.
When fascism arrives as your friend.
by Michael Rosen
I sometimes fear that people think that fascism arrives in fancy dress worn by grotesques and monsters as played out in endless re-runs of the Nazis.
Fascism arrives as your friend. It will restore your honour, make you feel proud, protect your house, give you a job, clean up the neighbourhood, remind you of how great you once were, clear out the venal and the corrupt, remove anything you feel is unlike you... It doesn’t walk in saying, "Our programme means militias, mass imprisonments, transportations, war and persecution."
controversy came later in the meeting when the moderator asked the candidates about the carbon tax, and whether they would support permanently scrapping it for agricultural production.
The issue is a serious one for the people of this riding, as rural residents and farmers depend more than most communities on vehicles for travel and work. The Liberal candidate, Dr. Lorna Jean Edmonds did something rather unusual for political candidates: she said what she thought, which was “I’m not going to unequivocally say that we won’t see a carbon tax again. I don’t believe we will in the short term, particularly not in the next four years.”
Incumbent M.P., Conservative Michael Barrett, jumped on the remark to imply that the Liberals were willing to bring back the carbon tax in the future. His comment, which received some applause from the audience, was: “Only Conservatives have committed to eliminating the carbon tax for everyone forever. The Liberal candidate just said she won’t say if we will never see a carbon tax again. Well, there’s your answer.”
Mr. Barrett has continued to use Dr. Edmonds’s comment as a stick to beat the Liberals, but, for her part, she has rejected his version of events. “My response was that I was being sincere. I basically said, I cannot predict the future. It's off the table under Mark Carney's leadership, but I can't predict the feature. And as a result, everybody's quoting that.”
Mr. Barrett is an experienced politician, wellknown as someone willing, if not eager, to take an agressive approach to debate, whereas L.J. Edmonds agrees that, as she put it in comments to the North Grenville Times, “my problem as a politician, I guess, is that I'm sincere. Nobody can predict the future, you know? I mean, look at Pierre Poilievre. He was against dental care, he was against pharmacare, he was against $10 a day daycare. Now he's voting for it.”
In an election which appears to be coming down to a contest between the Conservatives and Liberals, with the other parties losing support to one or the other, these local controversies add some spice to the campaign.
Cont'd from page 3
1846, that Hamilton Jessup had received enough valid votes in the election to warrant his remaining the sitting Member for Grenville County. It was also decided that the petition of Harris and friends had not been frivolous. Jessup was defeated in the 1854 election by William Patrick, one-time store owner in Kemptville.
Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Map
HISTORY OF VOTING
Canadian federal election, 1867
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative Francis Jones 923
Unknown G.A. Montgomery 857
Canadian federal election, 1872
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative Francis Jones 963
Unknown G.A. Montgomery 771
Canadian federal election, 1874
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 918
Conservative Francis Jones 785
On Mr. Ferguson being unseated, 10 November 1874:
By-election on 16 December 1874
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 917
Unknown John K. Weir 765
Canadian federal election, 1878
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 859
Conservative Francis Jones 823
Canadian federal election, 1882
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 1,048
Liberal Francis Theodore Frost 762
Canadian federal election, 1887
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 1,140
Conservative Angus Buchanan 747
Liberal George Eldon Kidd 291
Canadian federal election, 1891
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal–Conservative Charles Frederick Ferguson 1,311
Liberal Francis Theodore Frost 1,165
Canadian federal election, 1896
Party Candidate Votes
Liberal FROST, Francis T. 1,432
Conservative LAVELL, John N. 1,423
Canadian federal election, 1900
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative LAVELL, John R. 1,590
Liberal FROST, Francis T. 1,267
Canadian federal election, 1904
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative REID, John D. 2,239
Liberal EDWARDS, John 1,607
Canadian federal election, 1908
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative REID, John Dowsley 2,380
Liberal MARTIN, Samuel John 1,745
Canadian federal election, 1911
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative REID, John Dowsley 2,286
Unknown MARTIN, Samuel John 1,373
On Mr. Reid being appointed Minister of Customs, 10 October 1911:
By-election on 27 October 1911
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative REID, Hon. J.D. acclaimed
Canadian federal election, 1917
Party Candidate Votes
Government (Unionist) REID, Hon. John Dowsley 3,011
Opposition (Laurier Liberals) MACKINTOSH, Pember Alton 1,734
Canadian federal election, 1921
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative CASSELMAN, Arza Clair 4,325
Progressive PAYNE, George Arthur 2,392
Liberal MACINTOSH, Pember Alton 2,014
On Mr. Casselman's acceptance of an office of emolument under the Crown, 27 December 1921:
By-election on 26 January 1922
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative MEIGHEN, Rt. Hon. Arthur 4,482
Progressive PATTERSON, Arthur Kidd 2,820
Canadian federal election, 1925
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative CASSELMAN, Arza Clair 8,175
Liberal ANDERSON, William Garnet 5,221
Canadian federal election, 1926
Party Candidate Votes
Conservative CASSELMAN, Arza Clair
Community invited to ‘rebuild hope’ with House of Lazarus
The House of Lazarus (HOL) has been meeting the needs of surrounding communities for decades, but now the local mission needs the community’s help funding a building initiative that will see its food bank take up residence in a new permanent home.
“We are calling on the generosity of individuals and businesses in our community to help us raise the final necessary funds to complete the new building,” HOL’s board of directors stated in a recent letter campaign. “Your support will ensure that we continue providing food security, warmth, and hope to those who need it most.”
In addition to a letter campaign, Help Us Rebuild Hope, sent to potential donors, fundraising efforts for the building initiative include a Moose FM Radiothon set for May 9, 2025. Those who donate a minimum of $250 will be memorialized in an art installation that is set to be featured in the new building, while those who contribute $500 or more will be honoured with a personalized plaque on the donor tree, as a lasting tribute to the community’s compassion and commitment.
“Every donation, no matter the amount, will bring us one step closer to securing a long-term space for our essential services,” the letter stated.
The food bank is currently housed at 10506 Clark Rd, where it has been serving clients since losing
its previous home to fire in April, 2023. Following a financial donation from Scotiabank in 2024, the insurance claim proceeds, as well as with a previous two-acre land donation from Jack and Cathy Hoogenboom in 2019, HOL’s board of directors decided late last year that it was time to move forward with the project.
The new building, which is being constructed by Watko Construction Ltd., a Kemptville-based company, will be situated on Ronson Road in Mountain, kitty corner to HOL’s current headquarters. John Koenjer, owner of Watko Construction Ltd., is acting as general contractor for the build. The new structure, which is expected to house HOL’s food bank, food bank warehouse, its new furniture store, as well as its offices, is projected to be move-in ready in the spring of 2025. This will leave the existing stores, HOL Boutique and Mountain Treasures, at their current location on Simms Street.
“Your donation is not just an investment in a building, it is an investment in the well-being of our neighbours, friends, and families,” the letter continued. “We sincerely hope you will join us in this mission by making a contribution.”
The letter also noted that in the past six months, HOL has addressed food insecurity by feeding more than 820 people through its food banks. In addition to that, HOL has distributed more than 5,000 bags of food
170th Spencerville
Quilt Raffle Fundraiser
by Eric Connell
to students to eat over the weekends and has provided more than 6,000 community meals. HOL has also taken several measures to address housing insecurity. Three families are currently housed in HOL rent-gearedto-income housing units, while HOL’s Community Hub and Warming Centre has had more than 800 visits in the past six months. The hub has also provided a safe space for 38 people experiencing homelessness.
“At House of Lazarus, our mission is simple yet powerful: Building Community – Sharing Hope,” HOL’s board of directors said. “Our vision is to be a first-stop community hub that coordinates support and provides resources to those in need. By supporting this initiative, you are directly contributing to that mission, helping us create a space where no one in our community goes hungry and where compassion thrives.”
Donations can be dropped off on May 9 during the Moose FM Radiothon, made online (https:// www.canadahelps.org/en/ charities/house-of-lazarusoutreach-mission/), by etransfer accounting@houseoflazarus.com, or by cheque made payable to House of Lazarus. Cheques can be mailed or delivered to 2245 Simms Street, Mountain ON K0E 1S0. Charitable receipts will be issued for every eligible donation.
To learn more about HOL, as well as its many outreach programs and initiatives, visit the mission’s website (hol.community), call (613-989-3830), or email cashby@houseoflazarus.com.
Inspirations 2025
The Manotick Art Association is thrilled to announce that its annual spring show and sale, “Inspirations”, will be back again this April 25-27. The show will take place at the Curling Club in Manotick, 5519 South River Drive, and will feature the works of 44 area artists. The show runs Friday, 6-9 PM; Saturday, 10-4:00; and Sunday, 10-4:00. Entry is free and there is plenty of parking, as well as an accessible entrance. This year we are also excited to announce that we will be working together with the Manotick BIA who will be hosting their Spring Fling on Saturday, April 26th. Manotick bucks will be handed out to art show visitors on Saturday and these can be used for purchasing merchandise in Manotick during the weekend (but not at the art show). It should be a grand weekend in Manotick!
This juried show brings a breath of fresh air into the community after a long winter through a feast of vibrant colours and images. Visitors can enjoy viewing landscapes, abstracts, florals, and wildlife painted in oils, watercolours, acrylics, pastel, and batik. There are also several photographers showing their art. Many of the artists will be familiar to long-time patrons of Inspirations, but we are excited to welcome several new and exciting artists to the line-up this year.
The show will also feature live music on two of the days. Scott Voelzing will entertain our guests on Friday from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Saturday, from 1-3, will feature Chad Wolfe on fiddle and Mark Allen on piano. As every year, we will also have door prizes that can be won simply by filling out a ballot.
MAA has always taken pride in supporting charities through the proceeds of our spring show. This year we will be supporting The Mission. We will also be collecting cash donations at the door for this worthy charity.
Come out to the spring show! We would love to see you and your family have an enjoyable time viewing artworks that are beautiful, inspiring, and family friendly. Art, in any of its forms, beautifies and enriches our world, and we certainly need that these days. The painting that you fall in love with can bring you peace and joy for many, many years.
Giedre Abromaitis
Rural FASD’s Red Shoes Triathlon
On Sunday, August 17, at Riverside Park in Kemptville, from 7:00 am to 3:00pm, everyone is invited to come to Rural FASD’s Red Shoes Triathlon. With the support of Triathlon Ontario, the Municipality of North Grenville, the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce, and the Kemptville Downtown BIA, Rural FASD is proud to bring this sanctioned triathlon to beautiful Kemptville and its Campus focusing on the theme “Nothing For Us Without Us!”
The day will consist of five triathlons, being timed by ChipResults, starting with the Olympic qualifying Draft Legal triathlons and finishing with the recreational triathlons that anyone or any team can do starting at the Riverside Park pool, then cycling through beautiful Kemptville Campus and finishing with a run around Riverside Park.
There will be information booths manned by adult advocates living with FASD, the Chamber of Commerce, the LLG Health Unit, and Kids Inclusive, free canteen, and loot bags. Spectators are encouraged and admission is free, but donations to Rural FASD to help support this event are appreciated through our June 8 raffle to win two free tickets from WestJet, or two RedBlack tickets from Wills Transfer.
To support or participate in this historic event, please go to https://ruralfasd.ca/redshoes-run-triathlon to make a donation, or join the triathlon and receive your loot bag.
We thank the Ontario Trillium Foundation, HWFAT Advisory Committee, St. John’s United Church, Kemptville Campus, County of Leeds-Grenville, YMCA, ChipResults Timing, the LLG Health Unit, and Kids Inclusive for supporting this event.
TICKETS GET YOUR TICKETS - QUILT RAFFLE IS HERE
Here is your chance to WIN a one-of-a-kind quilt! This amazing handmade quilt was designed by our fair exhibitors. The quilt was created from last year's exhibitors' quilt blocks. The theme was “St. Lawrence Seaway!”
With tickets selling for just $2 for 1 ticket, or $5 for 3 tickets, how can you pass on this opportunity?! All proceeds will be going towards the children's activities at the 170th Spencerville Fair!
You can purchase your tickets from any of our Spencerville Fair Directors. If you don't know a director, do not worry! Contact info@spencervillefair.ca, and we can hook you up with some tickets!
The lucky winner will be announced, Sunday, September 14. But be sure to get them fast while you can, and help support the fair!
Interested in supplying a block for next year's quilt? To learn more, check out 'Fancy Work' on our website - www.spencervillefair.ca/fancy-work.
And remember: 170th Spencerville Fair, September 11-14, 2025. Come home to your Fair.
For more information, or to volunteer for this momentous event, please contact Tanya at info@ruralfasd.ca, or call 1-800-708-2047.
North Grenville rallies in force for Sports Dome Project
North Grenville residents gathered at the Kemptville Campus soccer fields on April 19 to support the proposed sports dome, forming the phrase “DOME SWEET DOME” in a striking aerial photo.
On Saturday, April 19, North Grenville residents gathered at the Kemptville Campus soccer fields to show their unwavering support for a year-round multi-sport dome
facility—and they did it in bold, unforgettable fashion. In a powerful display of unity and spirit, attendees held up letter signs spelling out “DOME SWEET DOME,” captured in a
stunning aerial photo that says it all: North Grenville is ready.
The All In for the Dome event brought together families, athletes, business owners, and community leaders for a single purpose—to show the Province of Ontario that this community is all in for a transformative project that will expand recreation access, enhance community wellness, and drive local economic growth.
Among those leading the charge were several Community Champions, each with their own reasons for supporting the dome:
Rick Tachuk, business leader, emphasized the lasting impact: “This dome is a longterm investment in the health
and spirit of our community.”
Andre Rancourt, volunteer and community builder, spoke about its potential for young athletes: “It’s for our whole community! From leagues for all ages to popular activities like pickleball and tennis, there’s something for everyone. And for our seniors, the walking track will be a much appreciated and well-used space year-round.”
Marcus Dickie, youth sports coach, shared: “This is more than just a sports facility—it’s a space where young people can grow, connect, and thrive.”
Ethan Bos, student advocate, added his voice: “The dome means more opportunities, more development, and more reasons to stay active and involved.”
An appreciation for abundant clean water
Everyday, dozens of times, we enjoy ready and easy access to an abundance of clean water. But this is not the case for an astounding number of people around the world. An astounding 2 billion people, a quarter of the global population, lack access to safe drinking water. What’s more, nearly half of the people on the planet (46% according to the U.N. World Water Development Report 2023) do not have access to safely managed sanitation. Think about that the next time you brush your teeth or flush the toilet.
A couple weeks ago we wrote about the largely positive changes to health we have seen over many decades in Japan. This week let’s talk about Africa, where the story is far less rosy. We have both spent time in Africa, including South Africa during Apartheid. In recent years, our focus has been East Africa and work to build capacity in medicine, nursing and health sciences. During a visit last week to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, the water problem was evident. There have been years when, due to a lack of rainfall, everyone suffers. The consequence was not hard to see: dead cattle at the roadside and parched earth without a blade of grass where these animals should have been grazing. When the rains do come, it’s torrential, washing down hillsides devoid of trees, draining away the topsoil and any remaining seeds, and creating huge trenches and gullies that make the land unsuitable for animals or agriculture.
Sandra Summers, Executive Director, Community Living North Grenville, noted: “We’re building something inclusive—where every resident can belong, participate, and benefit.”
Poor water quality even in places where there is decent infrastructure is another problem. You may be aware that fluoride is often added to public water systems in North America to prevent tooth decay. But in East Africa, natural fluoride levels in water are extremely high, far exceeding the 0.5 to 1.0 mg per liter limit set by the World Health Organization. This turns teeth brown and poses problems for bones.
Tim Wasylko, parent and entrepreneur, highlighted community vibrancy: “This project brings energy and opportunity to North Grenville—and that’s something we should all get behind.”
Also in attendance was Mayor Nancy Peckford, who reflected on the powerful turnout:
The human population is ballooning in East Africa. Take Uganda. In the 1960s, it was a country of less than 10 million. Today, it is 51 million. By 2050, it will exceed 100 million. To Dr. Ssali, Deputy Executive Director of the Joint Clinical Research Centre, a top-tier disease treatment facility in Kampala, a question about the population was posed, “Are you excited about the economic opportunities or worried about the burden of disease?” The initial response was, “Both.”
“North Grenville has never been afraid to dream big. What we saw today was more than a show of support, it was a message to the province that this community is united, energized, and ready to grow. The dome is about equity, access, and creating spaces where everyone can thrive.”
The event marked a high point in the ongoing campaign to secure provincial funding for the project. With public momentum surging, North Grenville continues to make its case loud and clear.
To view the aerial photo and learn more about the dome project, visit: www.northgrenville.ca/dome
This is what “all in” looks like. Dome Sweet Dome, indeed.
But we would advise a harder line. “Prevention. Prevention. Prevention.” East Africa has not turned on its economic engine despite decades of effort. Yet the region has proven time and again that it is susceptible to disease. The HIV/ AIDS epidemic was its most crushing case. While HIV is now treated effectively, the latest problem is an aging cohort of people on anti-retroviral drug treatment who are over the age of 50 and now must also manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease. Hypertension currently affects one in four Ugandans, but only 8% are aware of the problem. NCDs are very expensive healthcare challenges for countries still struggling to provide the basics like clean water. There’s a trainwreck coming.
Lest we forget, there remain appalling issues with the provision of safe and accessible clean water here at home. It’s a national shame that some indigenous communities in Canada must boil their water for drinking and cooking. And many industries throughout North America are guilty of water misuse and contamination, some criminally so. Will all the prayers in the world make a difference? Not a chance. Enjoy your next glass of water with contemplation and appreciation.
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
Ospreys are back
Despite our strange weather, the movement of the returning birds seems to be going ahead as usual, and they are in the process of returning to us for the next few months. Some of those that appear in the garden are already here, as mentioned before in previous articles.
Other birds delayed a little bit, being birds which are reliant on the water for their food source, and the icing conditions had to clear before they, too, have appeared.
Taking advantage of this fact, after my usual Tuesday morning breakfast with friends, I took to looking for the Ospreys in the places that I have commonly seen them before. Most of these are readily accessible by road, so it was not a difficult task and I had soon found what I was looking for! A female Osprey perching beside a nesting platform by the Rideau River and close to the road, so I was able to pull over on to the hard shoulder, whilst being safely off the road. I was then able to get some good photographic shots of her thinking that she was just by herself. After about five minutes, there was a flurry of
movement and a male suddenly arose from the nest, where he had been all the time, unbeknownst to me! He took off and landed in the big tree nearby. I was able to walk alongside the road to try and get a better view of him, but it was difficult, with him perching in amongst the branches.
The female stayed where she was, and it wasn’t long before he took off and approached her and a brief mating took place. I was still a little way away, having followed him, but was able to capture a shot of the event, from a distance! He then took off and flew along the river and found himself another perch to land on. I had hoped that he would go fishing, but that wasn’t about to happen, so I decided to go to another spot and see what was there.
Well, much of the access road was blocked off, but I could see another Osprey perching on one of the nesting platforms above where some Natural Resources men seemed to be busy, so I didn’t go over the bridge to investigate further. The Osprey on the platform seemed to be fairly static, so I just took a couple of pictures
and left. It was just as well really, because some rain spots were coming down and I didn’t want to get my camera wet.
From there, I ventured on back towards home, which took me over the river and then along the other side to where more nesting platforms are located. These appeared to be unoccupied, so I called it a day and drove on home and will probably get back on another day soon.
Yesterday, my wife came home from her weekly walk that she does with a friend, and excitedly showed me the pictures that she had taken on her telephone camera, whilst going down a country lane. Boy, was I ever jealous! She got pictures of not just one, but two Pileated Woodpeckers together! Grr! Need I say more!? What a treat for her and great that she got the pictures too as proof! Maybe you, too, have had some bird surprises. I hope so. Stay safe and well. Cheers, John Baldwin
by
There are salads that can really stick to your ribs. Today’s offering is Chinese Rice Salad.
It has the benefit of the salad vegetables coupled with some rice. It also has the advantage of being flexible in terms of what you may wish to add. Try our Chinese Rice Salad for a change.
Chinese Rice Salad
Ingredients
• 1 cup of the rice of your choice, cooked: either long grain, Basmati, Jasmin, etc.
• 1 cup of peas, canned or thawed from frozen
• 1 cup of celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup of red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup of Chow Mein noodles or, if you prefer, raw bean sprouts (not canned)
• 1 cup of small cooked shrimp (they also come in a can; just drain and use)
Other possible additions include:
• ½ cup of canned chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon of crushed garlic
• Garnishes might include: 1 English cucumber, lemon or lime, all thinly sliced and sliced cashews.
Dressing (punch up these numbers if you’re a dressing fan)
• ¼ cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons each of lime and lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of soya sauce
• 1 teaspoon of curry powder
• 2 teaspoons of white granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon of celery or sesame seed
Preparation
• Mix all of the top ingredients in a large salad bowl
• Shake the dressing mix in a large sealer jar with a lid and refrigerate till ready to serve
• Toss the salad with your dressing and top with the garnishes of your choice; or
• Top the salad with garnishes and serve in the salad bowl with the dressing on the side
This is another salad that you can use to make wraps. Just place some salad in the middle of a flatbread of your choice, for example a tortilla. If you are having it as a salad, accompany with your favourite Grahame’s Bakery bread.
Please let me know if you’ve tried this easy peasy recipe at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville
Craig, Rosemary Annual KDH Memorial Service
by Jenn Westendorp
Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) is hosting its annual Memorial Service to honour patients who have passed away at the hospital.
Every spring, family members and friends are invited to gather for the Memorial Service to honour their loved one, and to hear a message of hope and encouragement for those who are left to mourn. This year’s Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 2 pm, at North Grenville Community Church (2659 Concession Road, Kemptville), located next door to KDH.
Family members and friends of people who passed away at KDH in 2024 are invited to attend the service. Attendees are welcome to bring a framed photo of their loved one, which will be returned to their owners after the Service.
The Memorial Service is a collaboration between KDH, the KDHA Pastoral Care Committee, and Beth Donovan Hospice. The Pastoral Care Committee is a subgroup of the KDH Auxiliary and all of its members are volunteers. The Committee is interdenominational, offering support to any and all denominations.
“For some families, the Memorial Service may be the first and/or only public acknowledgement of the death of their loved one,” said Susan Brown, Chair of the KDHA Pastoral Care Committee. “Inviting and including them in the service demonstrates to family and friends that they are valued by the hospital, as much as their loved one was while a patient.”
“The Memorial Service is an important event in the annual life of KDH,” added the hospital’s CEO, Frank J. Vassallo. “It gives us an opportunity to say, ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to have cared for loved one, who was valued and is not forgotten.’”
Those wishing to attend the KDH Memorial Service are asked to RSVP by Tuesday, May 6 by emailing kdh_info@kdh.on.ca.
Rosemary Craig, of Kemptville, Ontario, passed away suddenly on April 13, 2025 with family by her side. Rosemary, born December 27, 1946, in her 79th year was married to the late Harold Craig for 58 years. She was a loving mother of Kerry Craig (Shelley Craig) of Kemptville, and Krista Craig (Jimmy Kontogiannis) of Richmond.
Cherished Grandma to Bridget and Dylan Craig, dear daughter of the late Leo and Verna St. Amand (nee Arcand).
For her entire professional career, Rosemary worked as an insurance broker, however her true passions revolved around the outdoors. Her love for nature and animals stemmed from her upbringing on the farm where, from a young age, she fostered a variety of animals. Some of her favorites were her groundhogs, skunks, bats, birds, rats, cats, and most importantly dogs. Harold and Rosemary were soulmates as was clear by the sheer number of similar interests they possessed, even at such young ages. As newlyweds, Harold and Rosemary enjoyed motorcycling, snowmobiling, boating, fishing and camping. Later on, Rosemary’s hobbies shifted to include softball, gardening, travelling, horse racing and most recently chicken ranching. Anyone close to her would understand the time and devotion she invested in the people and interests she loved.
She was always there for her family. Whether it was sharing or passing down the knowledge that she obtained through her own upbringing or something as simple as driving the children/grandchildren to their events.
A joint celebration of life will be held at the Kemptville Snowmobile Clubhouse (1505 O’Neill Rd, Oxford Mills) from 1:00-4:00 pm on Saturday May 3rd. We are inviting all family and friends of both Harold and Rosemary Craig to join us in sharing their fond memories. In lieu of flowers donations in Rosemary’s memory may be made to the kidney foundation.
Condolences/Tributes/Donations
Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435
Noreen (Nee Plumridge)
Peacefully on Sunday April 13, 2025. Beloved wife and Best friend of the late George Blake. Loving Mother to her sons Gary (Laurie) and Glen (Andrea). She will be truly missed by her family with whom she shared many happy times. Cherished Grandma to Alicia (AJ), Andrew (Tracy), Jenna (Pollo), Heather (Dan), Kaleb (Tania), Nicholas, Garret, Terri-Lyn (Pat) and 10 great-grandchildren. Noreen was born in London, Ontario in 1931 with her sister Carole and brother Pat.
She moved to Kemptville in 1991. By Noreen’s request Cremation has taken place. A Private Inurnment will be held at Iroquois Point Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations in Memory of Noreen may be made to St. Lawrence Lodge, Brockville.
Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
COMMUNITY EVENTS events@ngtimes.ca
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 7:30 - 9:30pm. 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.
BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, May 6 and 20, June 3 and 17, July 15 and 29, August 12 and 26. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 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, May 13 and 27, June 10 and 24, July 8 and 22, August 5 and 19. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 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 613658-5290 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
April18 25 and May 2
NG Drawing Circle These are draped sessions and they are open to all residents, 14 years and older regardless of drawing skill level. The cost is $80 for 8 sessions or you can drop in for $15 per session.
St. John’s United Church
April 26
Comedy Night & Auction. Time: 6:30 pm
Join Community Living North Grenville for the 12th Annual Comedy Night & Auction Tickets, on sale at the CLNG office, are $50 per person, or a table for eight at $350 contact Tanya Baird at 613-258-7177, or info@ clnorthgrenville.ca.
North Grenville Municipal Centre.
Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction
Two seatings 5:00 and 6:30 PM. Featuring salad, dessert and beverage. Adults: $15.00, Children age 4-10: $10.00, Children 3 and under: Free. For advance tickets, please email fundraising@stpaulskemptville.ca or call 613-715-3049. Take-out also available.
St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, 319 Prescott Street, Kemptville
April 27
NG Sustainability Fair & EV Show
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
North Grenville Municipal Centre
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Sunday, April 27, 2025 @ 1 pm Brockville Museum
Organized by: Leeds and Grenville Labour Council Free
April 29
Historically Speaking Time: 7:00 pm. Please join us for the presentation, "The Mystery of Jane Tyndall and the Tyndall House" with Karen Finstad.. At the Merrickville Legion. EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com
May 1
Jenny's House of Joy presented by Theatre Night in Merrickville Tickets are $20 available at the door or online at http://www.merrickvilletheatre.org/shop/ Runs Thursday to Saturday, May 1 to 3 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 4th at 2 pm.
Merrickville Community Centre, 106 Read St May3
Great Merrickville Garage Sale 8:00 am - 2:00 pm n addition to items in the village event, St Ann RC Church is firing up our barbeque and ovens for the first time this season, offering BBQ and baked goods for sale. And check out our stock of house and garden plants, potted and ready to grow. 230 Main Street West, Merrickville Gravitate Travel Talk
May 4
Plant Kindness Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
2nd Annual Plant Kindness: Pottery, Plant & Social Pick out a handmade pottery planter with a floral arrangement, then stay for afternoon tea and treats! All proceeds go towards the Clay Studio Collective. $40 a Ticket: www.claystudiocollective.com
Located at 17 Church Street, Lower Level, Athens, Ontario
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.
Gravitate Travel Talk
April 26
Times: 11:15 am
Just You and Avalon Waterways
May 10
Time: 11:15 am
Kensington Tours and Azamara Cruises
June 14
Times: 11:15 am
G Adventures and Rocky Mountaineer Tickets are limited so don’t miss out. Go to www.gravitate.travel/events-list for more details and to reserve your spot now. All ticket proceeds benefit Community Living in Kemptville.
CLASSIFIEDS
613-215-0735
OASIS PAINTING
Free Quotes! INTERIOR / EXTERIOR 613-408-4432 - William
HELP WANTED
Local residential carpentry company looking for a laborer. Some carpentry experience is a benefit. Someone interested in learning the trade also a benefit. Eric winter / Erics carpentry service. 613-913-9598
FOR SALE
Horse manure, great for flowers & gardens. Sold by the bushel or load. Call 613.258.3561
Portable treadmill, brand new never used $150. 613-215-0665
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, X-Large $250 613-258-9202
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
TO RENT
LAND FOR RENT to farm. High producing for soy bean and corn. Reasonable to the right farmer. Call 613.258.3561
A Home for Our Neighbours: Turning College Residences into Affordable Housing for
Seniors and Veterans
by S. G. Taylor
North Grenville stands at a unique crossroads. With a growing population of seniors and a pressing need for affordable housing, the Municipality of North Grenville has identified an innovative and practical solution: repurposing the former college residence on the Kemptville Campus into 60 affordable apartments designed specifically for seniors and veterans.
This project exemplifies the kind of creative thinking that small communities need. The residence is already built, well-located, and underutilized. With thoughtful renovation, it can be transformed into a welcoming, accessible, and secure living space for some of our most deserving citizens. It’s a local solution to a national crisis: the shortage of affordable housing.
The idea has broad community support. It addresses multiple goals at once: it reuses public infrastructure, revitalizes a portion of the Kemptville Campus, and ensures that older adults and veterans can remain in the community they know and love. It
also aligns perfectly with the Municipality's commitment to sustainable development and caring for vulnerable populations.
What remains uncertain is how higher levels of government will respond. Federal housing policy is a critical factor in the success of projects like this, and with a federal election on the horizon, it's worth examining which political parties are most likely to support this kind of initiative.
The New Democratic Party (NDP) has put forward the most ambitious platform for public and non-profit housing, including the reuse of public buildings for deeply affordable housing.
The Liberal Party has also signaled strong support for municipal housing innovation through its Housing Accelerator Fund and co-investment strategies. Both parties have pledged specific support for seniors and veterans.
Meanwhile, the Conservative Party's approach emphasizes incentivizing private developers and selling off federal build-
ACROSS
1. Dry riverbed
5. Snakes
9. Mid-month days
13. Portent
14. Specialty
16. Adopted son of Claudius
17. Tatters
18. Threesome
19. Exam
20. 8th letter of the Greek alphabet
22. Pastimes
24. Catches
26. An abnormal growth
27. Bombarded
30. Messiah
33. Fanciful embellishment (alt sp.)
35. Fire remnant
37. American Medical Association
ings, which could make projects like this one more difficult to realize unless partnered with the private sector.
No matter the political landscape, this project deserves broad support. It’s a practical, compassionate, and community-driven approach to a challenge faced by communities across Canada. As voters and neighbours, we should be asking our federal candidates where they stand on projects like this. Will they fund them? Will they streamline the process? Will they work with municipalities instead of against them?
Housing is not just about bricks and mortar: it’s about dignity, belonging, and care. North Grenville is ready to lead. Let’s make sure our leaders in Ottawa are ready to follow.
38. Complete
41. East southeast
42. Specified days of the month
45. Campaigned
48. Tidy up
51. Ledger entries
52. The business of selling goods
54. Roof overhang
55. Invalid trials
59. Finger jewelry
62. Inactive
63. Highly emotional episode
65. Anagram of "Site"
66. Close
67. Imps
68. River to the North Sea
69. Sunrise
70. Evergreens
71. Colors
DOWN
1. Malt
2. Asian nurse
3. Corrupt
4. Set up
5. Astern
6. Fern clusters
7. Publish
8. Prestige
9. Temporary
10. D D D
11. Formerly (archaic)
12. Drunkards
15. Swelling
21. With competence
23. Amble
25. Religious offshoot
27. Cigarfish
28. Not animal
29. Twosome
31. In a submissive manner
32. Adjust again
34. And more
36. Communists (slang)
39. Circle fragment
40. Entice
43. Not western
44. Asterisk
46. Burn the surface of
47. Counseled
49. Omit
50. Almost
53. Someone who is owned
55. Intellect
56. Concept
57. Shredded cabbage
58. Type of duck
60. Jeer
61. Notices
64. Jerk
to last week’s Sudoku
Talia’s Take
5 Gentle Ways to Tackle Difficult Conversations
by Talia Hreljac
I recently attended a wonderful conference for all the Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) in Collingwood, and I learned so much about ways to improve our beautiful community. There were different learning sessions on things like beautification, social media, and events, but they also offered deeper dives into tougher topics, and one particularly interesting session I’d like to share more about today: “how to have a difficult conversation.”
Now don’t get me wrong: I don’t like confrontation. And I especially don’t like difficult conversations. In fact, they really drive up my anxiety. Receiving a text that says “Can we talk?” pretty much guarantees I’ll break out in hives.
However, as I get older and, dare I say, wiser, depending on the day, I’m getting a bit better at handling these conversations. Sessions like the one at the conference help guide me through those tougher moments. So, here are five things I’ve learned about dealing with difficult con-
versations:
1. Don’t wait. Even though it may feel easier to ignore the issue and hope it goes away, it often just festers and gets worse. Plus, your brain might start blowing the problem out of proportion; when, in reality, it may not be such a big deal. If a difficult conversation needs to happen, just rip the band-aid off and have it.
2. Listen more, speak less. When we know a tough chat is coming, we sometimes show up with our defences up, ready to make our point loud and clear. But that can just lead to more tension. Go in knowing what you want to say, but also take the time to truly listen - not just hear them talk, but really understand their point of view.
3. Put on your suit of armour. This is something my therapist once told me when I was nervous about a conversation. She said, “Talia, go in wearing your suit of armour.” Be brave, knowing the moment won’t last forever. So, when I know something hard is coming, I mentally put on that suit of armour, put on a strong face,
Review by Paul Sharpe and Helen MacGregor
Mary Poppins, played by Mirielle Carpentier, leaves no doubt about who is in charge when she magically appears to Jane and Michael Banks in their nursery. Mirielle has a commanding and mischievous presence on stage and sings with great confidence and lovely tone. She is the perfect Mary Poppins! As soon as Bert, the chimney sweep (Rylie Hillier) appears in the prologue and the Banks family and household staff are introduced, the audience is aware of the strength of these performers. Bert appears in half of the scenes, partly as a narrator, linking scenes together and as a significant character. The father, George Banks (Ronan Peskett) convinced us how difficult and frustrating it
have the conversation; and then I come home and eat a sleeve of Girl Guide cookies because #balance.
4. Go in prepared. When I’m facing a tough conversation, I usually jot down a few notes about what I want to say. It helps me stay focused and keeps my emotions in check. I don’t bring a book or anything, just a few points to help guide me and make sure I’m ready if tough questions come up.
5. Be open to compromise. Difficult conversations often stem from differing opinions, and that’s totally normal. Go in with an open mind and a willingness to find a solution together. It might not be exactly what you imagined, but if it helps both sides move forward, it’s a win.
Difficult conversations are part of life, and we can’t always avoid them. But having a few tools in our back pocket can make them a little less stressful. Just remember to show yourself grace, do the best you can, and be open and honest. The rest will work itself out.
Bright minds, bold ideas: Local students impress at Science Fair
by Talia Hreljac
The Rideau St. Lawrence Science Fair lit up the North Grenville Municipal Centre on April 10, as students from across Leeds, Lanark, and Grenville Counties proudly presented 70 innovative STEM projects. Open to students in Grades 7 through 12 and under the age of 21, the event showcased the creativity, curiosity, and dedication of the region’s young scientific minds.
Students passionately explained their projects to 30 judges, eager to share their discoveries and ideas. The fair wasn’t just a competition, it was also open to the public, offering the community a chance to celebrate and support the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.
Five standout students earned the prestigious opportunity to represent the region at the 2024 Canada-Wide Science Fair in Fredericton. The Rideau St. Lawrence team includes:
• Best of Fair: Chloe MacLeod and Briyanna Wilberforce with A.H.H. Breath Easy: The Automated Hodder Hug (Project Partners), both from North Grenville District High School.
• Best of Fair Second Place: Lukas Savkoff for TALON: The Affordable, Versatile SAR UAV of the Future.
• Best Junior: Holly Chaters for Stellar Wave.
• Best Junior Second Place: Elora Faurbo, a North Grenville High student, with Magnets in Motion.
was working as a manager in a bank and maintaining a household with staff and rebellious children. Later on, Ronan sings with passion and strong vocals in “A Man Has Dreams”. The mother, Winifred Banks (Gabrielle Bowlby) was convincing in her love for her children and husband and Gabrielle sang with great diction, emotion and tone. Conflicting ideas between George and Winifred Banks about priorities of work, finances and family life add drama to the story.
Jane Banks (Isabella Flinn) and Michael Banks (Briyanna Wilberforce) display an energy level reminiscent of a pair of puppies, with amazing connection and coordination in their movements and vocal duets. While most of the cast sang in the soprano or treble
range, the Bird Woman (Anna Fleming) sang solos in a rich alto voice with emotion that brought tears to our eyes. Anna showed great versatility by also being Mrs. Brill, the Banks’s family’s overworked and harassed cook, and was very funny in that role. The butler for the Banks family (Neve Crossman), has many comical scenes with other household staff and Neve is terrific with physical comedy!
The substitute nanny, Miss Andrews (Olivia Pilon), who arrives when Mary Poppins has left, is well-equipped to stir negative emotions in the audience with her black clothing, dark hair and makeup (well done Ronan Peskett with makeup design), and her nasty facial expressions. In contrast Olivia also played Mrs. Corry, a very funny shop owner of words! In a colourful and beautiful park scene, the stage is flooded with the whole cast, including dancing penguins and statues. The statues have graceful and acrobatic dances (Eleanor Gendron, Morgan Belhumeur, Hana Irfan). They were also excellent and graceful as birds later in the musical for “Feed the Birds”.
The Chairman of the bank where George Banks
This year’s top winners earned a coveted spot at the 2024 Canada-Wide Science Fair in Fredericton. The Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) is Canada's largest annual youth STEM event, bringing together the top young innovators from across the country. Taking part will be 400 Students displaying 350 STEM projects The Fair will have 83 Exhibitors, and it is expected that more than 7,000 visitors will view the exhibits.
Congratulations to all participants, and especially to those advancing to the national stage. With these bright minds leading the way, the future looks incredibly promising.
works (Zachary Roberts) expresses both gravitas and humour. Frequent visitors to the park include Admiral Boom (Logan Lowry) and Miss Lark (Anika Frizell) who add considerable humour to their scenes. Performers with multiple roles include Alex Langlais who played a park keeper who has a great sense of fun, and Von Hussler a grumpy bank customer. Maya Langlais plays a policeman and a very earnest and wonderful bank client, Northbrook. Deciding which loan seeker to help becomes critical to George’s career.
There are three nannies in the story. Katie Nanna (Serena van Noppen) appears in the first scene, then in many scenes as part of the chorus. Other chorus members include Annah Reynolds, Violet Joyce, Danieve Fifield, Kamryn Young, Charity Dow, Kayden Pilon, Elara MacGillivray, Adalyn Ardron, Elea Kyte, Emma Button, Elise Laferriere, Sarah Flood and Clara MacDonnell. These
troopers supported 19 different scenes over almost three hours, including dancing, singing and managing decorative props.
“Step in Time” song had a wonderful tap-dancing scene led by Bert. Dancing by all cast members was expressive and precise throughout the whole show. Kudos to choreographer Laura Anderson! Kudos also to the designers Carolyn Bruce and Bonnie Selleck and their crew! English accents sound authentic and certainly vary from the Banks family to Bert and the domestic help. Thanks to John Wilberforce and crew for enhancing the sound so we could hear all the wonderful songs and dialog. Sets are cleverly designed by Bonnie Selleck and built by Master Carpenter Neil Conroy and his awesome crew. The rapid scene changes were done by the very fast backstage crew led by Stage Manager Leigh McGrath. The beautiful colours of props, including flowers and cleverly designed
kites, make an enchanting contrast in a park scene. In rooftop scenes, real smoke can even be seen rising from a chimney!
Stage lighting is seamless and helps transport us into every scene effortlessly. Thanks to the design by Lucas Colwell and his wonderful crew. Zachary Van Noppen designed and made the projections that allowed the whole back-stage wall to be transformed between a park scene and the interior of a bank, complete with pillars and tellers.
None of this would have happened without the amazing Production Team led by the fabulous Director Barbara Lacelle, the wonderful Producer Marilyn Conroy and the very musical Music Director Phillip Konopka. What an amazing service Barbara and her team has provided for the youth in our community for 23 years
The Rideau St. Lawrence Science Fair winners who will be heading to Fredericton: from left to right: Holly Chaters (Best Junior), Elora Faurbo (Best Junior Second Place), Briyanna Wilberforce (Best of Fair), Chloe MacLeod (Best of Fair), Lukas Savkoff (Best of Fair Second Place) and Victoria Strange (Adult Delegate).
South Gower Business Park
We would like to take this time to thank our clients, fellow business associates and community. You have contributed greatly to our success at 4 Industrial Road, South Gower Business Park.
Great effort is made to meet your requirements in a timely, cost-effective manner, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. With varied experience, continued growth in education and support staff, our team continues to provide assistance in many areas including: CORPORATE SERVICES
• Financial statement preparation including compilation, review and audit reports
• Corporate tax return preparation and strategic tax planning
• G/HST, Payroll, WSIB
• Representation to tax authorities
INDIVIDUAL SERVICES
• Tax planning and personal tax return preparation
• Estate planning and tax return preparation
• Representation to tax authorities
FINANCIAL SERVICES
• Assist with budget and projection forecasting
• Business management consultation,
• Assisting with new and changing business & restructuring
• Buy and sell business consultation
• Provide in-house bookkeeping or assist with finding your own bookkeeper
We know and love the local area we serve and strive to support local businesses and individuals in all their business and financial goals.
Dare to Dream ...
NGCC Presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
by Valerie Kirkwood
The North Grenville Concert Choir is busy rehearsing for its performances of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, which will take place later in May. The musical is by that powerhouse duo of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. We have been working on the music since early January, and are now in the ‘blocking’ phase. This is when our intrepid Director, Phillip Konopka, decides where each of us will stand on stage, and who moves where, and when.
This is an “in concert” production of the musical, meaning that, although we will be in costume, there is a minimum of choreography. There will be some movement on the stage as various characters arrive and leave, and groups of singers shift positions, and react to the story which is being played out for the audience. There will be scenery, and lighting effects will play an important part in bringing the tale to life.
The story itself is a retelling of the Biblical tale of Jacob and his dozen sons, the most noteworthy of whom is Joseph. Joseph is the son of Jacob’s favourite wife, and has a very special talent: he can interpret dreams. This sets him apart from the other brothers, and when Joseph is given a beautiful coat of many colours, while all they have are rugged shepherd’s robes, their jealousy reaches the breaking point. They decide that they need to level the playing field by getting rid of Joseph. They pretend to their father, Jacob, that Joseph has met a bloody death out in the hills, while in fact, they have sold him into slavery to a group of nomadic Ishmaelites who happened to be passing by.
While Jacob mourns the loss of his son, Joseph, using his intelligence and his dream-interpreting talent, manages to work his way up from slavery to an influential post in the government of the Pharaoh Ramesses. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Each scene in the production is done in a different musical style, varying from cowboy blues, through cabaret, 60s rock and roll, French café, and calypso, all tied together by a modern musical theme. Though the subject matter is at times grim, the songs are funny. Be forewarned: some of them are ‘ear worms’, and might get stuck in your head for days!
Performances of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” are scheduled for May 23 and 24 at 7:00pm, and May 25 at 3:00pm, at the Urbandale Arts Centre in the North Grenville Municipal Centre. Posters are already going up, and tickets are available at B&H Your Community Grocer in Kemptville, or online at aftontickets.com/ngcc . Tickets are $25 and children 12 & under FREE!
The Joseph cast in rehearsals. Phoro by Elisabeth Rubli.
Update on construction at County Roads 43 and 44
The Municipality of North Grenville would like to thank residents for their continued patience as important upgrades to County Road 43 move forward. This long-awaited expansion and improvement promises to significantly enhance traffic flow, safety, and pedestrian/ active transport access along this key corridor.
“As the largest roads project in the history of our community and the United Counties, we are very appreciative for your understanding as we navigate this next phase of construction. We recognize that this investment represents short term pain for long term gain, and that we will have a far better and safer road once it is complete,” said Mayor
Nancy Peckford.
As early as April 28, work will begin on one of the largest and most complex components of this project – the roundabout at the intersection of County Roads 43 and 44. Barring the unforeseen, no traffic closures are anticipated and at least one lane of traffic in all directions will remain open at all times. The roundabout will be built in stages (one quadrant or “corner” at a time), with full two-lane operation expected by late June.
The balance of this year’s construction will focus on the section of County Road 43 between the Kemptville Creek bridge and the intersection at County Roads 43 and 44. There is a goal
to complete most major work on this section before winter 2025/26. Residents can expect to see heavy work and continued progress throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
Roundabout
Construction Timeline:
• Anniversary Way Roundabout
• The northern, or “top”, half of the Anniversary Road roundabout has already been paved and is currently in use. Construction on the south, or “bottom”, half is underway and progressing well in preparing the road base, with a completion target of May 1. Full roundabout operation is expected later this fall.
• County Roads 43 & 44 Roundabout
• As noted above, construction on this roundabout is expected to begin the week of Monday, April 28 and be completed by late June.
Shoppers Drug Mart/CR 43 Roundabout Construction will take place in July and August, after the completion of the roundabout at CRs 43 and 44, with full use of both lanes ready anticipated before the start of the school year in September.
Note: All roundabouts west of the bridge are expected to be fully paved and feature pedestrian crossings in 2025, with allowances for any unexpected delays.
Bridge Update:
• The new two-lane portion of the Kemptville Creek bridge is anticipated to open by July 2025.
• Demolition of the old bridge is currently scheduled for August 2025.
• Additional features, including barrier walls, the multi-use pathway (MUP), and utility infrastructure (gas and water lines), will be installed during and following the bridge construction.
Pedestrian and Lighting Improvements: The north-side MUP between the bridge and CR 44 is expected to be completed by fall 2025, if possible. Lighting along the road-
way and across the bridge is expected to be installed by the end of this construction season.
The bridge MUP and lighting is planned to be in place this fall, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
We understand that road construction can be disruptive, and we sincerely appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we work to deliver long-term improvements to this busy transportation corridor.
Further updates will be provided as timelines are confirmed.