Issue 23 2024 June 13 NG Times

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Another local hero recognised by the Governor General

It is well known that the women of North Grenville are special, caring, and activist people, and the Governor General of Canada has recognised the fact by awarding a second service medal to a local woman in the space of a few months.

On May 8, Sabrina Rubli was awarded the Meritorious Service Cross by the Governor General of Canada during a ceremony at Rideau Hall for co-founding Femme International, along with co-founder Ornella Marinic. The Meritorious Service Cross “recognizes great Canadians for exceptional deeds accomplished over

a limited period of time that bring honour to our country.”

Born and raised in Kemptville, Sabrina Rubli started Femme International in 2013 after learning about the taboo around menstruation that is prevalent in Kenyan and Tanzanian culture. “They are taught that their period is unclean,” Sabrina explains. “They don’t go to school, drink the same water, or eat the same food as everyone else when they are on their period.”

Femme International is an NGO that aims to break the taboo and the barriers surrounding it by using education, engaging communities in conversation, providing sustainable menstrual products, and ad-

dressing the unique needs of menstruators in low-income communities, giving all an equal access to opportunity and possibility. It also aims to continue to do research, measure impact, and actively influence policy whenever possible.

Sabrina and her team of 11 work in both Kenya and Tanzania to educate girls, boys, women, and men about menstruation and take away some of the stigma associated with it. They also distribute reusable sanitary products to make sure girls feel comfortable going to school, and to ease some of the financial burden. Sabrina says there are a million things to be done in terms of female empowerment in East Africa, but she believes

teaching them about menstruation is a good start. “At least they won’t stop going to school,” she says.

Today, Femme International operates with mostly local people and continues their work in both Tanzania and Kenya. To date, they have changed and improved the lives of over 16,000 young girls and women. In 2019, the World Health Organisation named Femme International a Top Innovator in Africa.

You can find all the information you need on the work of Femme International on their website: https://femmeinternational. org.

Photo: Sabrina Rubli, Governor General Mary Simon, Ornella Marinic (photo provided by office of the GG)

by David Shanahan

Tomorrow is Movie Night at NGDHS!

It was Black History Month, 2024. The cold, wet snow hit against the glass panes. The lights flickered as the class of 2024, Mme Davidson’s class discussed how to make North Grenville District High School a better place. The classmates gazed at each other, as Mme split us up to fend for ourselves. Three teams, yet only one would be victorious. The groups began to ponder ideas on what we could do to make our outdoor space a better, more inclusive, place. Finally, one group decided to put forward the idea of benches. Everyone was on board and the work began!

After two weeks of planning and research, the day had finally arrived, the day when we would decide who would be victorious. Presentation after presentation, we were getting closer to the vote – a dreaded time where we would see who would

win. With the most votes –benches won! Relieved, we thought it was over, yet it had only begun. Following many more weeks of planning, the most stressful day arrived – the day when the head of the UCDSB Real World Learning Team arrived. With preparation and hard dedication, we were ready. One student even wore a suit on this occasion because he thought it was extremely important.

With kindness from Upper Canada District School Board Real World Learning, he gave our class $2,000 to start this project at NGDHS, but they want us to pay it forward. So, we’ve searched around Kemptville and North Grenville for sponsors and/or donors that would help this project to be a success. So far, we have received donations, commitments or help from Kemptville Youth Centre,

North Grenville Rainbow Youth Alliance, Lockwood Brothers Construction, and JL Woodworking. To begin paying it forward, we are having a fundraiser with a family-friendly movie night that will take place on June 14 at our school (North Grenville District High School). The movie being featured is “Bad Guys”. Doors will open around 5:30 and the movie will begin at 6pm. Tickets will be sold at the door or beforehand at the North Grenville District High School and South Branch Elementary School offices. We will only accept cash. There will be snacks and refreshments for sale at the movie. If you have any questions feel free to contact North Grenville District High School, or our teacher, Mme Davidson at deanna. davidson@ucdsb.on.ca.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20 - 7:00

TICKETS: eventbrite.ca (search) Ah Cappella or $15 at the door

SPONSORED BY Geraldine Taylor, taylor burke realty team

A unique day in Ferguson Forest

On Saturday, June 22, Rideau Search and Rescue (RSAR), will be conducting a search and rescue training exercise (SAREX) in the Ferguson Forest. RSAR is a team of dedicated volunteers who help police search for missing persons. RSAR has about 30 operational ground searchers, and a 4 horse-strong mounted unit. During the SAREX, RSAR members will be honing their search skills and demonstrating the competencies required to become certified searchers. The exercise will be based on a realistic scenario and will evolve as the exercise progresses. Members of the public are invited to follow the progress of the search at the Command Post in the Arboretum and observe RSAR in action. They may arrive any time

after 9:15am for a 10:00am start. We are not able to say what time it will finish as that depends on how quickly the RSAR members find the “lost people”.

Officers from the OPP Kemptville Detachment, Mobile Crisis Response Team, will also be in attendance with some of their equipment. They look forward to chatting with spectators and answering any questions they have about the work these officers do.

The AdventureSmart / Hug a Tree program is aimed at children of all ages, and focuses on what to do should they become lost, wherever they are. Workshops will take place in the Arboretum at 10:30-11:30am and 2:00-3:00pm. Parents are welcome, and encouraged to listen in and observe. Regis-

tration is required to ensure that there are enough kits to hand out at the end of each presentation. Please e-mail Trish Adams, Secretary, Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre, tadams500@gmail. com with your preferred time.

There is no charge for observation or involvement in any of these activities/ workshops, but suggested donations of $5 would be most welcome. These will be shared by Rideau Search and Rescue, AdventureSmart / Hug-a-Tree, and the Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre. Don’t miss this rare and valuable opportunity to learn about the Search and Rescue network in Ontario… without being the one who is the object of the search!

KAIROS Blanket Exercise to be held at Kemptville Campus

Join Kemptville Campus on June 14th from 1:00–4:30pm at the Agroforestry Centre (2627 Bedell Road) to participate in a KAIROS Blanket Exercise, facilitated by The

Circle of Turtle Lodge. (thecircleofturtlelodge.ca)

This will be a unique learning opportunity that explores the history of Indigenous peoples throughout Canada. Through storytell-

ing and participation, you will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of colonization and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation. Please note that smudging will be taking place and children aged 14 years and under are not permitted. This event is FREE to attend, but registration is required as spaces are limited. More details can be found on the Kemptville Campus Facebook page or email us at info@kemptvillecampus.ca

The story of the FFC part 3 The desert on the doorstep

by David Shanahan

The urgent need for reforestation to prevent further erosion of farm lands following the removal of tree cover across Ontario was fully realised by the early 1930's. The work of Edmund Zavitz and the increasing number of qualified Foresters had begun the process and had encouraged wider understanding of the problem blow sands were causing to agricultural land around the province.

The tree nursery that had been established at the Kemptville Agricultural School [KAS] in 1923 had grown considerably by the end of the decade as the need for replacement trees

demanded a continual supply of saplings for use in reforestation projects. But it was also clear from experience and research that these new trees would only prosper if they were grown in the same climatic conditions and soil types as the land in which they were to be planted. And, by the 1930's, a location close to KAS became the focus of a major reforestation initiative, as the area known as Limerick was developed into the new Limerick Forst.

The land in that part of the Municipality is not good for farming. Swampy, with thin soil that gradually got blown away by wind and weather once the covering trees were cut down to clear the land, it was one

of the last parts of North Grenville to receive settlers. One lot, for example, had been patented to the Canada Company in 1838, but it was not until 1856 that the Company sold it. It then changed hands six times in the next ten years, before Andrew Forsythe arrived there in 1868. He was one of the settlers after whom the various local roads were named, and are still known, winding through a settlement that seemed to promise a stable future to the many families that settled in the area. The Forsythe family still held it until it was taken in 1939 for arrears of tax. Like so many other families between the World Wars, they watched the soil blow away, sand dunes forming on some lots, as their farms became unproductive. Andrew's son, Robert, had bought the east half of the lot next door in 1919, and it too fell to the tax people in 1939.

The Ontario Government, under the Premiership of G. Howard Ferguson of Kemptville, had become concerned over the defores-

tation of the Province when it passed the Forestry Act in 1927 to establish agreements with municipalities on setting up reforestation schemes. The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville appointed a Committee in 1939 to report on having a Counties Forest established in Oxford and Augusta Townships. The landowners who were seriously in arrears on taxes, or who had actually abandoned their farms because of the dreadful conditions, had their land confiscated, and the United Counties decided to use these lots as the basis for the new forest.

The Limerick Forest started in 1940, and, as further lots were added over the years, grew to be the large enterprise it is today. It was to Limerick Forest that a newly-qualified Forester named Alf Campbell was sent in 1956. Alf was to spend the rest of his career working in Limerick and later at the FFC, becoming a legend and a precious asset to his community. Alf once told me that, when he first

went to Limerick Forest, the trees only came up to his waist. He could stand and look out over them, as far as the eye could see.

The process of tree planting went on for decades. In 1965-66, for example, 177,800 trees were planted, by hand, by twenty-eight workers. The following year, these men planted more than half a million trees, again by hand. In all, nearly nine million trees were planted in Limerick Forest on land that so many settlers had painstakingly cleared in the late nineteenth century, thereby destroying the land they were trying to cultivate. In 1995, the Province ceased their management of the Forest and it was left

undisturbed until the United Counties took over management in 2001.

Soon after the United Counties established Limerick Forest, the provincial government initiated another project to expand the reforestation of Ontario. In 1945, the Ministry of Lands and Forests established the G. Howard Ferguson Forestry Station on 1,500 acres of land in Oxford-onRideau Township, north of the Village of Kemptville boundary. It was the start of an institution that has provided trees in the millions ever since, though its story has not always been one of growth. It’s a story that deserves to be remembered.

Set up to fail

by Brandon Mayer

It’s that time of year again – temperatures are on the rise, and schools not built within the last 10 years or so become ovens all day long due to a lack of air conditioning. Many people (particularly those without kids in school) will be shocked to learn that less than half of schools in Ontario have A/C. It’s an unacceptable problem that warrants an expedited solution.

Temperatures in schools this time of year routinely hit 30+ degrees Celsius (indoors!). Factor in some humidity, and it doesn’t take long before you have a classroom full of kids with a glaze of sweat dripping from every face. The environment is not just extremely uncomfortable, it also causes a lack of focus, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. It’s, quite simply, intolerable. When temperatures become so extreme inside schools, the focus becomes on preventing heat exhaustion and dealing with troublesome behaviours that result from heat related stress. Teaching and learning, by necessity, become a secondary focus. We must remember that children do not have fully developed sweat glands and are more prone to heat related

illness. They also cannot always express when they are experiencing concerning symptoms.

I challenge anyone to name a government building in this province that doesn’t have A/C keeping the environment at a comfortable temperature in the hotter months. Most private workplaces are the same. Retail stores can be quite frigid – a welcome break for vulnerable people who don’t have A/C at home. Once a luxury, A/C is increasingly being seen as a necessity as global temperatures rise. In decades past, it may have been felt that schools didn’t need A/C because school is not in session in July or August. Now, however, school buildings become intolerably hot as early as May, and as late as October. It’s also noteworthy that custodians and some school admin workers are on site during the summer, and schools often have community groups in the summer, such as camps and extracurricular sports.

The fact that newer schools are being built with A/C is a wide open acknowledgment of the fact that there is no reason for one of our most vulnerable populations (children) to be suffering all day in unsafe temperature conditions while much less vulnerable adults across

Letters to the Edior

Dear Editor, Regarding: Evolutionary Debate of Existence

Last week, reader Kath Piché, deflected from the month long Debate in the North Grenville Times (“NGT”), referring to it as a “Great Religious Debate”. Kath lamented that the world-wide, historic suffering of humans would perhaps “not be allowed by a Caring God”. Correct me if wrong.

I believe the NGT is not debating the existence of a particular Deity. I believe Dr. Shanahan and Mr. Steve Gabell are challenging readers to evaluate the evolution of life and our individual accountability for our “morality”, or “moral code”. So far, I believe it can be summarized as:

- A theory perhaps provable by the Sciences, versus

- A plausibility of an unknowable greater power

the country are working comfortably in a climate controlled environment. Yes, I fully acknowledge that many adults work outdoors in even hotter conditions or direct sunlight; but what we are expecting children to do at school is sit quietly and focus – a tricky task, even in comfortable conditions. They are not as accustomed to heat as adults are. They do not sweat as much, or regulate their temperature as efficiently as adults do. And with underdeveloped brains and natural childhood impulsiveness, they are bound to act out and do anything but learn when put in that type of environment.

It occurred to me, while sitting at my desk in a 30.3 degree Celsius, 42% humidity classroom recently, sweat literally hitting me on the shoulders as it dripped from my head and face, that things would change quickly if the Education Minister or Premier Doug Ford had to spend their whole work day thinking and focusing and being productive at that same desk. Politicians used to care enough to get out and actually see and hear and feel the issues for themselves. This is what drives good policy. Certainly some politicians still have such integrity, but, for too many, it unfortunately seems that “out of sight, out of mind” prevails. The excuses are

not only for creation but also to perhaps remove arbitrary morals

The unknowable is given the contemporary rubric of “A Grand Design”. Perhaps it is a design of a universal symmetry and synergy; probably an infinite and perpetual design. Such a design would not be subject to human coordinates of measure, let alone understanding! Science has to date posited such a power as the “laws of nature”. I believe that is one summation of the debate to date.

I take from the debate that the backdrop historically includes rational questions of a “Deity or God”. It seems primarily that a Deity was accepted by those seeking faith in that all life has a purpose and worth. A Deity does serve us well when looking for an underlying, understandable genesis and purpose of life including morality. From the philoso-

there: “It’s probably not too bad”, or “it’s not much hotter inside than it is outside”, or “we didn’t have A/C in school when we were kids and we lived”. All easy to say when you are the one inside an air conditioned office. Any excuse to save some money while the kids and school staff have to live through exhausting conditions every day.

An organization called Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) has a useful tool offered through its website that calculates the humidex based on temperature and humidity. It turns out that 30.3 degrees Celsius with 42% humidity “feels like” 35 degrees Celsius. This is because when the air becomes more saturated with moisture (humidity), there is less room in the air for the sweat on our bodies (our main cooling system) to evaporate, making us feel hotter. The OHCOW suggests the following for adult workers in 35 Celsius humidex conditions: “Post Heat Stress Warning notice; notify workers that they need to drink extra water; ensure workers are trained to recognize symptoms”. Unfortunately, 4 and 5 year old kindergarten children are hard to “train to recognize symptoms”, and they also become irrational and fuss about something as simple

phy of nature to the theories of science has emerged the negative dogma of religions, plus the positive framework of caring, and compassion for all life. I think the debate may be asking if there is room for both theories to exist in partnership rather than conflict?

Please keep the debate alive!

Sincerely

Graeme Waymark Retired, Westerra, Kemptville

Hey Day Dismay!

You will read shortly about all the amazing and wonderful results from this years,61st Hey Day.

I am sad to have to write about an incident that hap-

as drinking water when they’re in an extremely uncomfortable environment. Some older students may have difficulty with both of these things as well, and, regardless, all are vulnerable.

Schools are about success, and yet, with the province’s archaic anti-A/C policies, all we are doing is guaranteeing that 3-5 months per year, students are set up to fail. We put them in an environment where they can’t think, and expect them to learn.

Let me be perfectly clear: Your child’s teachers are not to blame for this. Your child’s Principal is not to blame for this. The school board that runs your child’s school is not to blame for this, nor are the administrative professionals that run the school board. All school funding comes from

the province, and with the budgets that school boards receive, there is absolutely no way they could ever afford to install A/C. The decision would need to come from the provincial government to provide the extra funding required to make the upgrades.

I’ll say it louder for those in the back: Don’t harass your child’s principal, or call the school board head office to complain about a lack of A/C. That’s just like yelling at a fast food cashier because you don’t think the prices are fair. Have your say by contacting your local MPP or the Premier’s office and demanding change. It would be a gradual and very expensive process, but let’s face it – our children and the quality of their education are more than worth it.

pened at Hey Day this year. One of our Silent Auction items was “removed” from the tables. It was a Canon Rebel Camera, in its leather case along with two lenses. There was also a bicycle taken. This was a significant loss not only for the KDHA, but also for the bidder who won the camera.

Conscience usually gets to the best of us and we are asking if you have a Camera that has some how shown up in your home…….please return it to the KDHA no questions asked. It could be dropped off at reception in the Municipal Center, in a bag just marked KDHA with my phone number 613558-1761.

J Stover

Support farm businesses in your community

by Bill Groenheide, Director, OFA

As spring continues to unfold, we’re starting to see more and more locally grown fruits and vegetables ripe and ready for us to enjoy. From greenhouse vegetables and asparagus to strawberries, the bounty of Ontario produce is beginning to unfold in front of us – making June an ideal time to celebrate Local Food Week.

And it’s not just fresh, seasonal produce that is the focus of this annual event, which ran across Ontario last week. Local Food Week is also our opportunity to promote and appreciate the incredibly broad spectrum of food we are able to produce right here at home – fresh, frozen or processed meats; pickled, canned or frozen vegetables; field crops like grains and soybeans; dairy, eggs, fish, honey and more.

I farm just outside of Thunder Bay with my wife and our two sons and their

spouses, raising beef, chicken and growing a diverse selection of crops. I represent northern Ontario farmers on the board of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture and I’m also on the board of the Thunder Bay Country Market.

Our farm depends heavily on local market opportunities to sell what we produce – about 80 per cent of our business goes through the local farmers’ market –and for us, Local Food Week is a huge boost to our sales and marketing.

Although our local market runs year-round, the promotions around Local Food Week are the unofficial kick-off to spring, summer and fall market season for consumers in our area. And once people come and visit an on-farm store or a local market, this is our opportunity to introduce them to the farmer behind the product.

This means talking to them about where their food comes from, answering their questions about how we pro-

duce it, and how they’re not just shopping at a market, they’re supporting small businesses and families in their local communities.

For farmers in northern Ontario in particular, Local Food Week lets us shine a light on the challenges of growing in a cooler climate with a shorter growing season and long distances to market, and we find that more often than not, customers care about the freshness of local food and being able to support farm businesses in their communities.

Although many local food producers are considered small business, local food is a big deal in Ontario. Agriculture and agri-food contribute approximately $47 billion to the provincial economy annually and employ more than 10 per cent of Ontario’s workforce – in addition to supplying Ontarians with locally grown food.

At the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), we encourage Ontarians

Rehabilitation of Steve Clark continues

by David Shanahan

Local M.P.P., Steve Clark, has been named as Government House Leaders in a reorganisation of Ford’s government. This marks the second move in the rehabilitation of the politician since he resigned as Minister of Housing and Rural Affairs in September of last year.

His resignation came as something of a surprise at the time. He had been seen as an effective minister, and the issue on which he fell from grace, the removal of certain Greenbelt

lands from restrictions on development, was a policy he had opposed. But a report by the Integrity Commissioner found that he had chosen to “stick his head in the sand” and delegate oversight of the plan to an assitant, something the report stated as “incredible”.

Steve Clark, as M.P.P., had always been opposed to using Greenbelt lands for private development, and the sudden u-turn by the Ford Government on the issue after the last election caused him real concerns.

The Commissioner’s Report noted: “Minister Clark did

not appear ‘keen to be doing this project’, Minister Clark acknowledged that he was ‘not in a very happy mood.’ He explained ‘given the fact I was making the decision which was counter to some of the decisions I had made in the first term. And so it’s a tough decision.’” [Para 246]

It was generally accepted that Mr. Clark had to resign, but also that he was taking the heat off the Premier by doing so. In March of this year, the first steps in bringing him back into the government fold saw him being elected Chair of the Standing Committee on Social Policy in the Ontario Legislature. The Standing Committee on Social Policy, in addition to any matter that may be referred by Order of the House, is empowered to study and report on all matters relating to the mandate, management, organization or operation of the Ministries and Offices which are

across the province to shop locally, and to get to know local farmers – whether at an on-farm shop, farmers’ market or local agri-tourism business.

This past spring, PerthWellington MPP Matthew Rae introduced the Growing Agritourism Act, which if passed, will help expand agri-tourism opportunities in our province. An OFA survey into local food and agri-tourism showed that more than 40 percent of respondents are interested in selling value-added products and providing on-farm experiences.

To find out what local food opportunities are available in your area, visit Farm Fresh Ontario or Farmers’ Markets Ontario – and keep an eye out for a wide range of social media content posted last week that highlighted Ontario’s local food system and the great food products we produce right here at home.

Federal offender wanted

The Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (R.O.P.E.) Squad is requesting the public's assistance in locating a federal offender wanted on a Canada Wide Warrant as a result of a breach of their Statutory Release.

Tyrell PIERCEY is described as a black male, 29-years-old, 5'9" (180 cm), 180 lbs (82 kgs) with black hair and brown eyes. He has "TTDT" tattooed on his right forearm.

PIERCEY is serving a 4-year, 9-month and 17day sentence for:

- Possession of Prohibited / Restricted Firearm with Ammunition - Assault Peace Officer - Possess Firearm Knowing Altered / Defaced - Possession of Weapon Contrary to Prohibition Order

The offender is known to frequent the Cities of Scarborough, Toronto, Kingston and Ottawa.

Anyone having contact with this offender or information in regards to their whereabouts is asked to contact the Provincial R.O.P.E. Squad at 416-808-5900 or toll free at 1-866-870-7673 (ROPE) or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or call 9-1-1.

assigned to it as well as the Agencies, Boards and Commissions reporting to such Ministries and Offices.

There seems to be an irony, deliberate or otherwise, in placing Mr. Clark in a supervisory position after failing to properly supervise his assistant as Minister. His appointment as Government House Leader, while not a full Cabinet position, nevertheless places him back at the centre of government. His elevation came with a rejig to the Ford Cabinet, which was enlarged to 36 members with the addition of some Associate Ministers, and has led to speculation that a provincial election may be called earlier than anticipated.

One other element of the reshuffle that has garnered criticism was the announcement that the Legislature will not sit again until October 21.

The community events listed

Monday to Friday: 7am - 5pm Saturday: 8am - 4pm Sunday: Closed

Happy Father's Day

The Baldachin Inn

What is your favourite memory of your

by Ann Brady

Long before my brothers and I could read and write, we could read blueprints. We also understood the consequences of stealing our father’s sharpened pencils that stood like guards in a jar by his drafting table. And the inevitable cursing and shouting when he’d find one – or three! – missing, peace being restored in our tiny apartment only after three, very blunted pencils mysteriously resumed their posts in that jar.

dad?

living room floor. Moses couldn’t have had a more enraptured audience. Heavy, dark china-blue paper, crisp white lines and squiggles and symbols we’d seen in plain white as Popper worked at his drafting table, were now something officially announcing the birth of a house. Our house!

Be Inspired... & Energized...

‘Popper’ as I loved to call him, studied architecture at McGill. I can’t remember a time when he was not working on plans for someone’s house – or one of his own five - even into his senior years. He was a mathematical genius, an artist, a solutions man; and more than a few of the homes he designed dot Ontario and Quebec landscapes to this day. He also did side jobs for CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) reworking plans to maximize space, before the plans were compiled in huge books available to the public.

Our Dad’s greatest moment came early, when he was only 27 years old. Already a family man with a wife and three small kids, he had completed designing his first house. I’ll never forget the awe my brothers and I felt as Popper carried in ‘the blueprint scrolls’ fresh from the printer, and unrolled them on the

Popper explained everything to us – those were the doorways, and these, the windows. Here’s where the electrical went and that was where the rooms were delineated. Finding all the stairs was fun and easy, and I marveled over how my Dad had found a way to show them going in both directions at once! And yes, that was the bathroom and the kitchen and those were our bedrooms. Our bedrooms!

By quick calculation, I stifled my excitement seeing that I had a small and perfect bedroom all my own.

By the time we actually set foot in the door of this, our father’s first house, our family had already moved in. Those blueprints had magically

taught us that a dream could be laid down on plain white paper and made come true. With a lot of imagination, very sharp pencils, a T-square and some fancy French curves as his tools, Popper took that dream and translated it into the creation of an actual, physical edifice that we now inhabited. What a wonder! What a dad! Looking back on that moment, sixty-some years ago, I can only imagine the pride and love our father must have felt for his little family as he revealed his blueprints. This was his gift to us. I remember how happy our Mom was as she quickly wrote a letter to her sister about the new house, while Dad slipped the plans back into their special tube. And all these years later, especially on this Fathers Day, I know this for sure: it was our Dad who built us that house, and our Mom who made it our home. Thank you, Popper, for dreaming it.

Celebrate Father's Day: Shop locally in North Grenville for the perfect gift

Father's Day is just around the corner, and it's time to celebrate the special men in our lives who have played pivotal roles in shaping who we are. While finding the perfect gift can sometimes be a challenge, one way to make it extra special is by shopping locally in North Grenville. Not only does this support local businesses and the community, but it also adds a personal touch to your gift. Here's how you can find a thoughtful and unique Father's Day present while exploring the wonderful offerings of North Grenville. Explore Local Artisan Shops

North Grenville is home to a vibrant community of artisans and craftsmen, offering a wide array of unique and handcrafted goods. Consider contacting a local artist to discover one-of-a-kind items that your dad will cherish. Support Local Products and Restaurants

If your dad enjoys a good brew, fine glass of wine, or great cup of coffee, why not treat him to a selection of locally crafted beverages? North Grenville boasts many great options, each with its own distinct flavors and offerings. Why not treat your dad to a mouthwatering meal at one of North Grenville's many local eateries? Whether he's a fan of hearty pub fare, gourmet cuisine, or international flavors, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many restaurants in the area pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every bite is fresh and

flavorful. Make a reservation at his favorite spot or surprise him with a new culinary adventure – either way, it's sure to be a deliciously delightful Father's Day treat. Plan an Outdoor Adventure

For the outdoorsy dad, consider planning a day trip or adventure in the beautiful natural surroundings of North Grenville. Whether it's hiking along scenic trails, kayaking on the Rideau River, or enjoying a round of golf at one of the local courses, there are plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories together. You could even pack a picnic with locally sourced goodies for a truly unforgettable experience. Find Unique Gifts at Local Boutiques

Skip the big-box stores and explore the charming boutiques and shops that line the streets of North Grenville. From trendy fashion boutiques to specialty stores offering everything from books to home decor, you'll find a treasure trove of unique gifts that your dad will love. Consider picking up a stylish accessory, a cozy sweater, or a quirky gadget that reflects his personality and interests.

Personalize Your Gift with Local Services

Another great way to show your dad how much he means to you is by treating him to a personalized experience or service from a local business. Whether it's a relaxing massage, a professional grooming session, or a round of golf at a local course, there are plenty of ways to pamper him and make him feel truly appreciated.

Plan a Family Day Out

Finally, why not celebrate Father's Day with a fun-filled family day out in North Grenville? Whether you're exploring local attractions, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply spending quality time together at home, the most important thing is to create memories that he'll cherish for years to come. Consider planning a surprise outing or activity based on his interests and hobbies – it's the perfect way to show him just how much he's loved and appreciated.

Happy Father's Day

When it comes to finding the perfect Father's Day gift, shopping locally in North Grenville offers a plethora of options that are sure to delight your dad. Whether you're exploring artisan shops, sampling local brews, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious meals, there's something for every dad to enjoy in this vibrant community. So this Father's Day, show your appreciation by shopping local and celebrating the special bond you share with your dad.

Now se ing IN KEMPTVILLE

Now se ing IN KEMPTVILLE

SPECIAL PRICING ON SELECT HOMES

SPECIAL PRICING ON SELECT HOMES

Find fulfillment in Oxford Village, a new neighbourhood from Mattamy Homes where the countryside, urban amenities and a sense of community are woven into your everyday in Kemptville. Live surrounded by nature escapes, stay connected with social hubs and enjoy easy access to everything you need. Visit us today to explore a variety of Townhomes and Detached Homes with special pricing!

Find fulfillment in Oxford Village, a new neighbourhood from Mattamy Homes where the countryside, urban amenities and a sense of community are woven into your everyday in Kemptville. Live surrounded by nature escapes, stay connected with social hubs and enjoy easy access to everything you need. Visit us today to explore a variety of Townhomes and Detached Homes with special pricing!

LIMITED HOMES AVAILABLE!

LIMITED HOMES AVAILABLE!

(CR)

Single Car Garage Townhome

Single Car Garage Townhome

Equinox | 2,120 sq. ft. STARTING FROM THE MID $500 s

The Equinox | 2,120 sq. ft. STARTING FROM THE MID $500 s

Visit Our Sales Centres

Visit Our Sales Centres

Renew | 2,381 sq. ft. STARTING FROM THE HIGH $600s

Single Car Garage Detached Home The Renew | 2,381 sq. ft. STARTING FROM THE HIGH $600s

Contact: 613-215-1522 | sls_oxfordvillage@mattamycorp.com

Contact: 613-215-1522 | sls_oxfordvillage@mattamycorp.com

Location 1: 2600 County Road 43, Unit #32A, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Location 1: 2600 County Road 43, Unit #32A, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Hours: Monday – 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday – Friday: Closed

Saturday – Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm

Hours: Monday – 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday – Friday: Closed Saturday – Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm

Location 2: 3454 Greenbank Rd, Barrhaven, ON K2J 4H7

Location 2: 3454 Greenbank Rd, Barrhaven, ON K2J 4H7

Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm

Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm

mattamyhomes.com/ ontario/ottawa/kemptville/oxford-village Follow us: @mattamyhomes

mattamyhomes.com/ ontario/ottawa/kemptville/oxford-village Follow us: @mattamyhomes

Craftsman (CR)

Craftsman

Craftsman (CR)

Craftsman (CR)

Building Bridges:

Annual Report highlights year of collaboration and connection

In many ways, 2023 was the Year of the Bridge for the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. In its recently released annual report, it’s clear that 2023 was an extremely busy and productive year for all departments as they built bridges both real and figurative across the watershed.

In the most literal sense, staff completed the construction of two much-needed accessible pedestrian bridges at Baxter Conservation Area and Chapman Mills Conservation Areas, which will benefit the community for decades to come.

But staff also spent time connecting with valued partners, expanding their knowledge of the watershed and ensuring the RVCA’s services remain relevant, valuable and accessible to everyone who calls the Rideau Valley home.

Throughout 2023, RVCA staff:

- Welcomed more than 8,100 students to outdoor education programs at Baxter and Foley Mountain conservation areas;

- Planted 214,030 trees in partnership with private landowners, with $484,000 in external grant support;

- Funded 211 clean water

projects on rural and farm properties, providing $642,935 in landowner grants;

- Naturalized 1,719 metres of shoreline with more than 9,300 native plants, including more than 1,000 planted at Last Duel Park in Perth;

- Sampled 39 lakes and 119 stream sites for surface water quality;

- Surveyed 361 stream sections to assess aquatic habitat conditions;

- Completed a once-in-a-decade Watershed Conditions Report to bridge the gap between data collection and scientific analysis;

- Began data collection for new flood mapping on several upper watershed lakes and initiated the development of a new hydrologic model of the watershed;

- Accepted 199 hectares of conservation land donations from local landowners;

- Processed 319 Section 28 permit applications (with 98% approved or on hold), issuing decisions for all but 2 within provincial timelines;

- Reviewed 1,952 planning applications, providing natural hazard comments to municipalities;

- Processed 944 septic permit applications (usually within half the provincial timeline) and re-inspected 651 septic systems around lakes.

“I am so proud of our staff as they continue to provide quality conservation services to our watershed municipalities, residents and partners,” said RVCA General Manager Sommer Casgrain-Robertson. “We are committed to bringing value and expertise to all of our partners, and 2023 was a great example of that.”

To read the full report online, visit www.rvca.ca or contact the front desk at 613-692-3571 to request a hard copy.

RVCA is one of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities responsible for furthering the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in the watershed. Through the provincial Conservation Authorities Act, the RVCA is responsible for protecting people and property from natural hazards like flooding and erosion, and managing natural resources within the Rideau Valley.

Learn more at www. rvca.ca.

Winchester Subway location closes

The Subway restaurant located inside the Circle K convenience store in Winchester has closed. The location served its last customers on June 9. A sign beside the door of Circle K broke the news to customers, reading: “This Subway location will be closed permanently as of June 9th at 10pm. We thank you for your patronage over the years.”

While there was no specific reason given for the closure, Winchester has simply become the latest in a long list of Subway franchise locations that have shut down in the past several years, owing to financial and management struggles. The American-based chain was purchased by Roark Capital in August of 2023, with an operational strategy in place. It seems that the strategy was not enough to save North Dundas’ only location of the franchise.

Wednesday, June 19, 2024 @ 6 PM

Kemptville Pentecostal Church

1964 County Rd 43, Kemptville

For further information and to RSVP please contact the Central Admin Office at: 2830 County Road 43, Kemptville (613) 258-7177

EVERYONE WELCOME

Thank You

My family and I would like to express our full appreciation for the overwhelming support and sympathy shown during the mourning of our loss of the late Erin Liegh (Ralph) Langevin. The memories shared by so many of you at Erin’s Celebration of Life, along with the messages, flowers, phone calls, cards, and home prepared meals genuinely warmed our hearts.

We would especially like to thank Mark and Pat from the Funeral Home Hulse, Playfair and Mcgarry for their excellent service. In addition, the staff at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, musician Rod Baird, as well as Kim and Jeff Mathews from Drinks N Tow and Jenny Thibert and the Bookclub for organizing the decorations and food.

Thank you for those who travelled great distances, from as far away as England and Los Angeles to attend Erin’s Celebration of Life. To those who could not attend, yet still sent their love and condolences just know we are forever grateful. Thank you to all of Erin’s loving friends who prepared meals for our family for months during her treatments and after her passing. Erin will be deeply missed. Your support has eased the pain of her passing and for that we are eternally grateful.

With love, The Langevin and The Ralph Family.

is pleased to announce the addition of a new lawyer, Hugh O'Toole, joining the team early July 2024.

AL'S CLEAN UP SERVICES

Conservation Authorities seek public input Insurance claim finally approved for HOL fire

South Nation Conservation (SNC), Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) and the Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) are welcoming public input on updated development policies and wetland mapping used in Conservation Authority permitting.

On April 1, 2024, the Government of Ontario replaced individual Conservation Authority Regulations under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act, with Ontario Regulation 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits. This update requires Conservation Authorities to regulate development activities within 30 metres of all wetlands, as defined by the new regulation.

Conservation Authority staff have completed draft updates to policies, procedures and mapping in response to these provincial changes. Watershed residents are invited to schedule individual meetings (inperson or virtual) or attend an upcoming public open house to learn more about proposed development policy updates and wetland mapping.

Wetlands provide significant ecosystem services and benefits including flood attenuation, erosion protection, groundwater recharge, filtration of drinking water supplies, wildlife refuge, and forest cover, as well as recreational, educational, and research opportunities.

Wetlands are also usually associated with unstable, organic soils and not always suited to development.

The Conservation Authority partners have regulated development activities within Provincially Significant Wetlands and certain Locally Significant Wetlands since 2006. With the new provincial regulation, most wetlands will now be regulated, however, the buffer around them where a development permit is required has been reduced from 120 metres to 30 metres.

“Having updated policies and wetland mapping that reflects the new legislation will also streamline approvals and standardize approaches,” said RVCA General Manager Sommer Casgrain-Robertson. “Poli-

The closest meeting will take place at the RVCA Administrative Office, 3889 Rideau Valley Dr in Manotick on Wednesday, June 26 from 3PM - 8PM.

cies and mapping are used by staff, municipalities, and property owners to ensure that development is undertaken in a way that protects people and their property from natural hazards while also protecting wetlands and watercourses.”

Conservation Authorities work on behalf of their member municipalities to help manage, conserve and restore natural resources and guide sustainable development activities through permitting.

Through acquiring ecologically significant property, managing conservation lands, permitting sustainable development, and providing technical advice and cost-share funding for habitat improvement projects, there are a variety of ways to help improve wetlands and biodiversity within the region. Residents interested in learning more about land donations and project funding are encouraged to contact their local Conservation Authority.

Policy information, draft maps and meeting request links are available online at www.rvca.ca/regulationsplanning.

In a world where travel has become more accessible than ever before, the allure of the exotic and the unexplored beckons to intrepid adventurers and curious souls alike. While iconic landmarks and bustling cities continue to charm visitors, there exists a realm of unique travel destinations that promise experiences beyond the ordinary. From hidden gems nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes to cultural enclaves preserv-

ing centuries-old traditions, these destinations offer a tapestry of encounters that linger in the memory long after the journey ends.

One such destination that epitomizes this notion is the Kingdom of Bhutan, a tiny landlocked country nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. Dubbed as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," Bhutan is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, vibrant culture, and commitment to Gross National

Following the fire that destroyed the interior of the House of Lazarus Food Bank in South Mountain on April 25, 2023, the insurance claim has finally been approved. For more than a year, the House of Lazarus has been operating out of a temporary location in Mountain, generously provided by Willis Kerr Contracting. Even in the days immediately following the fire – which took place in the organization’s Food Bank located in the former Scotiabank building – House of Lazarus was still providing food to those in need, operating out of the agricultural hall down the street.

The insurance money will provide a fresh start for the House of Lazarus Food Bank. “It has been a year since the fire in South Mountain happened. We are happy that we have worked through the insurance process and are now ready to pursue a permanent location for our food bank", said Cathy Ashby, executive director of House of Lazarus.

The organization will not return to the former location, and the Board of Directors are actively pursuing next steps. It is unclear what will become of the burned building, which is still standing and appears structurally sound, though with a badly burned interior.

House of Lazarus is a non-profit organization that works with the community to ensure that people have the basics of life. It operates a large boutique and thrift store in Mountain, a Food Bank elsewhere in Mountain (new location to be determined), and a thrift store and Food Cupboard in Ingleside. For more information, visit hol.community

Palphug Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest. Perched precariously on a cliffside, this sacred site is not only a marvel of architectural ingenuity but also a symbol of Bhutan's deeply rooted spiritual heritage. As you traverse the mountain trails, shrouded in mist and surrounded by panoramic vistas, each step brings you closer to a profound sense of tranquility and enlightenment.

Happiness. What sets Bhutan apart is its steadfast preservation of tradition in the face of modernity. Visitors to Bhutan are greeted with a landscape adorned with ancient monasteries clinging to rugged cliffs, fluttering prayer flags, and verdant valleys dotted with rice paddies.

One of the highlights of a journey to Bhutan is the opportunity to embark on the challenging yet rewarding trek to the Taktsang

Yet, Bhutan is just one gem in a treasure trove of unique travel destinations scattered across the globe. In the heart of South America lies the otherworldly landscape of Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world's largest salt flat. Stretching as far as the eye can see, this ethereal expanse transforms into a mirror-like surface during the rainy season, creating a surreal spectacle that seems to defy reality.

Meanwhile, in the remote reaches of Madagas-

car, travelers can discover the Avenue of the Baobabs, a mystical grove where ancient baobab trees stand sentinel against the passage of time. Silhouetted against the fiery hues of the setting sun, these iconic giants evoke a sense of wonder and reverence, inviting contemplation beneath their gnarled branches.

In Japan, the island of Naoshima beckons art enthusiasts and seekers of serenity alike with its unique fusion of contemporary art and traditional culture. Home to the Benesse Art Site, this island sanctuary is dotted with avant-garde museums, outdoor installations, and minimalist architecture that harmonize with the natural surroundings, creating an immersive canvas where art and nature intertwine.

From the surreal landscapes of Bhutan to the artistic haven of Naoshima, these unique travel destina-

tions offer a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of our world. As travelers venture off the beaten path in search of the extraordinary, they not only discover new horizons but also forge meaningful connections with cultures and landscapes that enrich the soul and inspire a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our planet.

Revolutionary digital cameras with a local link

It may seem strange, in a world where almost everyone has a reliable camera ready at hand on their phone, that a company should exist marketing an alternative. But that’s what Paper Shoot Camera has done, with an incredibly innovative

digital camera made of materials that are either recycled, repurposed, or biodegradable, and environmentally-friendly.

The remarkable thing about the cameras is that you can have an almost endless choice of interchangeable cases, designs

to match your mood, your personality, or even your fashion sense.

Gillian Gallant brought the concept to Canada in 2021, along with partner Jack Bisson, realising the potential and value of the cameras, which were first created

by George Lin from Taiwan in 2012. Gillian is the grand-daughter of Peter Peers, who many will remember as part of the Times staff in our early years. Before that, he was involved with marketing at the old Advance, when it was the

local newspaper, and with the Manotick Messenger. Gillian knows North Grenville well, and it is wonderful to see someone with local links bringing such a creative product to the wider world. Jack Bisson also has local links; he’s the owner of the Mill Tavern in Manotick.

George Lin’s vision was to produce a highquality camera inside interchangeable cases made from a durable, sustainable, and customizable stone paper, made from discarded, landfill-bound technology and given a new life. The result is a camera that allows you to design your own case, choose colours, patterns, images, whatever you feel like. In an era of disposable everything, it is refreshing to find something that is eco-friendly, ethically produced using sustainable materials, and

fun. Gillian makes the point that the company’s “unwavering commitment to sustainability and creativity has set Paper Shoot apart from the rest, as we continue to use only recycled, repurposed, and biodegradable materials, pay ethical wages to our employees, and donate to charity with every camera purchase”.

Paper Shoot remains a small company of just 14 employees, allowing Gillian and her crew to retain control over quality and production values. She believes that Paper Shoot can be an example of how a small, womenowned company can be a commercial success while maintaining core principles and values. And she has certainly proved her case: in the couple of years the company has been operating in North America, it has expanded into Europe and South America, and Paper Shoot Cameras are now owned by over 150,000 environmentally-conscious and creative people, and there are over 700,000 followers across social media platforms, making up what Gillian calls their Cam Fam.

The camera has proved so popular that the company sold out of their inventory within just two months of beginning operations! Customers were willing to wait for up to three months for back orders. Everything is now up to date and sales continue to grow. Shopify just awarded Paper Shoot a milestone plaque to mark over 100,000 online orders. This speaks to not only the quality of the product, but also the pleasure people have in finding a way to express themselves in a unique way, instead of being confined to a standardised and anonymous cell phone. As a point-andshoot digital camera, it reflects a commitment to individuality, the environment, socially-conscious activism, and support for ethics in business. Not bad for something with which to create memories!

Gillian Gallant

FOR SALE

Firewood - soft- $60 per cord. Call Reg at 613 258 7606

Nexus 4 wheel Walker $160 21" wide with seat, 31"max. height, with removable basket. 613-223-6705

2 rims with tires 235/65 R-17 for Kia Sorento. Call 613-989-5211

Pegasus mobility scooter, like new. Asking $1600 or best offer. Call 613-258-7020

Canna Lilies and Gladiolus, started in greenhouse, 1 for $5, 2 for $9, 3 for $11, 5 for $18, 8 for $22 or 10 for $24. Call 613-824-5252

Ladies Norco Monterey 17" frame. Shimano disc brakes, 24 speed. $300. Text or call 613 890 3512.

Golf equipment, men's right handed; including golf bag with 2 wheel cart, plus extras. Call 613-340-2729

Arctic King window air conditioner. Paid $250 in 2023, used 1 month. Asking $200. Call 613340-2729

Mixed hardwood firewood. $120 per face cord. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

4X4 round bales of hay, stored inside, suitable for horses. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.

MISCELANEOUS

Lonely Gay Male, 60's. Seeks other for friendship, companionship. Spend sometime together, outings, meals & playing cards. Just to keep each other company. E-mail only dwight_gifford@hotmail. com.WANTED

WANTED

Bee hives to pollinate buckwheat in Oxford MillsBishop’s Mills area. Three sites, 100 acres in total. Call or text Wendell 613889-9228

Would like to purchase spruce seedling. Jackie 613-821-6161

Looking to harvest cedar trees for cedar hedges from land owner. Joanne (613)799-0958

Looking to rent farmland in North Grenville & surrounding areas. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

ACROSS 1. Strike 6. Chop finely

Skin disease

Rabbits

Type of fruit

Does your business go further than North Grenville? Advertise in our sister paper The North Dundas Times! Contact Nanda! Marketing Consultant Email: nanda@ndtimes.ca

Type of black bird

Of a pelvic bone 18. Natural satellite

Funnel shape 20. Mishandled 22. Anagram of "Nose" 23. Bowling target

Wading bird 26. Going on a trip 30. Full of excitement 32. Eagle's home 33. Heart device 37. Nonclerical 38. Flogged 39. Egyptian river

40. Rattled

42. Group of eight

43. Desert watering holes

44. Salad ingredients

45. Flowerless plants

47. Provided with food 48. Cab

49. Civility

56. Black-and-white cookie

57. Curved molding

58. Scoundrel 59. Beige

60. By mouth

61. Ancient Roman magistrate

62. Adjusts 63. Extend credit

64. Writing tables DOWN 1. Leveling wedge 2. Anagram of "Mail"

3. Colored part of the eye 4. A cooperative unit 5. Fugitive 6. Not animal

7. Excited

8. Blackthorn

9. Hampered

10. Conformity

11. Hag

12. 9 person musical group

13. Flock members

21. Zero

25. Jewel

26. After-bath powder

27. Genuine

28. Diva's solo

29. Triumphant

30. Declines

31. Decorated, as a cake

33. Cut back

34. Toy with a tail

35. Distinctive flair

36. Communists

38. A waste water cistern

41. Browning of skin

42. Commanded

44. Obtain

45. Madcap comedy 46. Strain

Meadow 48. Foot digits 50. Brute

Not fatty

Connecting point

Auspices

Mope around 55. Notices

RECURRING EVENTS

Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families.

PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@gmail.com

Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome

BINGO, Kemptville Legion, Bingos run from the beginning of September until the end of June on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.

NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

KLUB 67 EUCHRE Join us for fun, social euchre games taking place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday monthly at 1pm, September to May. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone welcome, $5. To play, cash prizes

Friendship Lunch every Friday at St. Johns United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. The meal begins at 11:30 and is free of charge. A good will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.

Drawing from Life - Portrait and figure drawing clothed models. Fridays, 4pm to 7pm, St. John's United Church 400 Prescott Street. Artists at all levels are welcome. Drop in fee $15. For information contact gowjb5@gmail.com

Spencerville Agricultural Society planning general meetings. If you are interested in joining our committee, please email info@spencervillefair.ca to receive all of the meeting details. Jul 8, Aug 12, Oct 21, Nov 11. The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville Ontario

BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, June 18, July 2, 16, 30, August 13, 27, September 10, 24. Registration from 6:30 p.m., play from 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com

EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road on Tuesday, June 25, July 9, 23, August 6, 20, September 3, 17. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m., play starts at 7:00 p.m. Contact Debi at debiar@ymail.com

Kemptville Farmers' Market: Many local farmers, producers and makers. Every Sunday from noon til 4pm, May 12 - October 27. Located at 301 Rideau St, Kemptville, across the lot from B&H Grocers

UPCOMING EVENTS

1st Annual Father's Day Car Show! This event is FREE for the public to attend and only $10 per car registration!

Sunday, June 16th, 9:00 AM- 3:00 PM, Spencerville Fairgrounds. For more information, please check out our website - www.spencervillefair.ca

EUCHRE FUNDRAISER FOR THE KEMPTVILLE DISTRICT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION in support of the CT Scanner Campaign. On Saturday, June 22 at Pierce's Corners, aka the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30; play starts at 1:00. $10 per player. For information, contact debiar@ymail.com

Fellowship of Christian Farmers: For everyone who is interested in the formation of the North Grenville Chapter - meeting at the Pentacostal Church (1964 County RD 43) on Wednesday June 26 at 7pm. Contact Capt Milfred Harper at 613-258-5375 Kemptville Legion Charity Bingo. July 1, 2024, Bingo is noon-3pm. 14 games half the take. 1winner take all jackpot

50/50 draw will take place. Canada Day cake served at intermission Must be18 and older to play. Profits will be donated to the KDH CT Scanner Fund. Questions, email mikeamirault@hotmail.com

South Gower Cemetery Service Sunday July 7 2:30 pm guest speaker Rev. Samer Kandalaft, music by the Gallagher Family

The many ways you can VOLUNTEER in North Grenville

KD Hospital

Andre Rancourt andrerancourt16@gmail.com

SKBP Venturers skbp.venturers@gmail.com Girl Guides theleangs@gmail.com

NG Art Challenge jayne.couch@yahoo.com

NG Art Guild northgrenvilleartsguild@gmail.com

Beth Donovan Hospice amy.tibben@bethdonovanhospice.ca

Oxford Mills Community Association susannelarner@gmail.com

Kemptville Youth Centre brucewehlau@hotmail.com Friend of the NG Library blrousseau26@gmail.com

NG Historical Society karenrepta@gmail.com

Rotary corabeking54@gmail.com

Christian Reformed Church sidypma@gmail.com

United Church gowjb5@gmail.com House of Lazarus cashby@houseoflazarus.com

Youth Alliance: ng.rainbowyouth@gmail.com

Seniors' Community Services jill.woodley@seniorscs.ca Shalom Small Homes shalomsmallhomeskemptville.org

The NG Library sjones@ngpl.ca Friends of the Forestry Centre ldpaibomesai@gmail.com

Kemptville & District Community Assn. wdembleton@gmail.com

BIA shelleybmitchell@gmail.com Pride chair@ngpride.ca Lions Club mikeamirault@hotmail.com

Knights of Columbus, Council 5333 Leeds Grenville Big Brothers Big Sisters Vanessa.martin@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca Canadian Guide Dog Assoc Info@guidedogs.ca Jags kemptvillejags@gmail.com Pentacostal Church kohls.s.m@gmail.com United way Ed@uwlg.org North Grenville Giving Garden michelleroussellemcevoy@gmail.com

Kemptville Farmers' Market kfmmanager1@gmail.com

Kemptville Restore kemptvillerestore@habitat1000islands.org

Kemptville Legion

Doors open at noon, Bingo is 1-3pm 14 games half the take 1winner take all jackpot 50/50 draw will take place CANADA DAY CAKE served at intermission Must be18 and older to play

All Legion profits from this event will be donated to the KDH CT Scanner Fund

Any questions, email Mike Amirault mikeamirault@hotmail.com

OASIS PAINTING

Free Quotes!

613-408-4432

Springhill Cemetery, 7832 Bank St. Metcalfe ON. is seeking an Operations Manager/Part-time position Responsible for all administrative duties including secretarial, treasury, bookkeeping and sales. Knowledge of Accounting, Excel and Word programs an asset. Work from home with some on-site requirement. Salary based on experience. For full job description visit http://www.springhillcemetery.ca Submit resume to: margharrison99@gmail.com

Deadline June 21, 2024.

Baldwin's Birds

A face only a vulture could love!

I ventured away from our garden to a friend’s cottage for a couple of days, which led to quite an eventful trip back from Charleston Lake. I had just left Philipsville and was on the Toledo road, when I spotted a bird with its wings opened up, by the side of the road. I stopped and backed up to see not just one, but three Turkey Vultures, with oth-

ers circling above, 6-7 of them altogether. I was able to get quite close to the one that had stayed behind, as you can see, so I got some super pictures of it. What a delight to see these – not so beautiful birds – up close! Whilst still away and having a chance to take a boat ride, I got to see a few more birds, such as the Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, Ospreys, a Bald Eagle (at a distance), Cormorants, and a nesting bird above one of the windows at the cottage. This

bird had a brown head, white chest and also flicked its tail. I am plumping on saying that it was an Eastern Phoebe, although it wasn't – or its partner wasn't – giving out the traditional Phoebe call. Maybe they don't do that when they are nesting!

Good news! My wait for the returning Bluebirds has finally ended, and a couple of days ago there was a pair of them in and around their nesting box, so I can now breathe a sigh of relief. It remains to be seen if they are actually going to use our box again, because I suspect that they are also residents at one of our neighbours as well. They do make false nests, so this is not beyond the realms of possibility. I'll just have to be patient a little while longer, to see the eventual outcome! Whilst they are pondering, the Kingbirds are still visiting and my wife saw one plop into our swimming pool yesterday either to cool off, in the heat, or to catch something, which she doubts, as it was right in the water!

Lots of things are still happening around us and I hope around you too. Stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin

Ontario Greens celebrate Pride Month

Ontario Greens Deputy Leader Aislinn Clancy released the following statement to mark Pride month:

“Pride is all about honouring the strength of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and its vital contributions to so many social justice movements

around the world.

It’s about coming together to stand up for inclusive, loving communities where diversity is celebrated, not demonized.

It’s also an important time for us to look back on the history of anti2SLGBTQ+ violence in

our communities – and to commit to dismantling the oppression that 2SLGBTQ+ folks still face today.

First Stop

First Stop Tool and Equipment Rentals celebrated their 30th anniversary on June 1. Thank you North Grenville for your support through all the years and thank you to our amazing staff who make this business a success, day in and day out! We couldn’t have done this without you!

We must not forget that Pride is rooted in resistance – resistance to violence, to racism, and to the many systemic injustices that 2SLGBTQ+ communities still face today..

We would not be where we are today without protest, without confrontation, and without immense and sustained pressure for change.

Today, as we witness a disturbing rise in violence against 2SLGBTQ+ communities in our province and around the world, it’s more important than ever that we are loud in our support for queer rights and resistance.

So here’s to celebration, and here’s to continued resistance.

To all those celebrating this month, have a safe and happy Pride.”

par Kemptville Street Piano

KSP est ravi de présenter Moonfruits, le duo musical ontarien composé de Kaitlin Milroy et d'Alex Millaire. Groupe bilingue sur scène, couple dans la vie, nominés aux Canadian Folk Music Awards 2024 pour Groupe émergent et Réalisateurs de l’année pour Salt (2022), ces deux chanteurs, accompagnés par “une forêt” d'instruments, se produisent pour la première fois à Kemptville.

Ste-Quequepart (2017) est leur premier album à grand déploiement. Isolement, gentrification et communauté forment le coeur de cette fiction villageoise élaborée. Mélangeant conte et chanson français-anglais, le duo tisse des rêves avec ses auditeurs d'océan en océan et décroche un prix Chanson SOCAN, un Stingray Rising Star Award, ainsi que trois nominations et un prix Trille Or 2019 en cours de route. Ne manquez pas votre chance d'entendre de près ces conteurs apaisants au Kemptville Street Piano. Ils sont “... authentique et passionnée. Leurs voix s'accordent à merveille et transmettent un sentiment de bien-être que seule la musique peut nous apporter.” — Olivier Maurais, Liaison

Quoi? La série de concerts de Kemptville Street Piano présente

Qui? Moonfruits

Quand? Samedi 15 juin, 13h

Où? Terrasse de la Bibliothèque publique de GrenvilleNord

Combien? Gratuit! (Les dons en espèces sont les bienvenus, ou consultez la section en vedette sur notre page FB pour le lien vers notre campagne GoFundMe.)

Apprenez-en davantage sur Moonfruits ici: https://moonfruits.ca/biographie

Cory M. Coons celebrates a decade of music

Acclaimed South Mountain singer-songwriter, Cory M. Coons is thrilled to announce the special edition release of his retrospective album, "Across The Great Divide (Album Cuts & Singles 20122022)." This unique digital collection, featuring a brand new, unreleased track and downloadable PDF booklet, is a journey through a decade of Cory's finest musical moments and is now

available exclusively on his website at http://www. corymcoons.com/pdfrelease.html followed by a release on iTunes.

This special edition is not just a compilation of hits but a narrative of Cory's evolution as an artist, featuring a brand new, unreleased track, "White Picket Fence." The 21-track album encapsulates the essence of Cory’s rootsy blend of Americana and Melodic Rock, showcasing his tal-

ent for crafting songs that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.

Included in this special edition is an exclusive full-color downloadable PDF booklet with lyrics, photos, and personal notes from Cory, offering fans an intimate glimpse into the creative process behind his music. The booklet is a treasure trove of insights and anecdotes, highlighting the journey behind each song and the milestones of Cory’s career.

The special re-issue of this career retrospective comes on the heels of the announcement of his nomination for Best Multi-Genre Artist at the 10th Josie Music Awards.

Cory M. Coons has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over 30 years, known for his heartfelt performances and a prolific career that

Learn how to make your very own Fabric Sculpture

Real hands on experience

Enhance your garden with your very own Sculpture! Interested in a Workshop in 2024

Description:

Fabric Sculpting workshop

Figure will be sitting or standing

Full day workshop 8:30 until 4:00pm

Cost $140

Payment must be received prior to the workshop to secure your spot

Email me at: cre8paverpol@gmail. com to reserve a spot ! 2024 dates

July

Saturday July 13, 4 pots left

Monday July 15, 2 spots left

August dates

Saturday Aug 10, 2 spots left

Monday Aug 12, 5 spots left

September dates

Monday Sept 30 6 spots left

October dates

Saturday Oct 26, 6 spots left

Monday Oct 28, 4 spots left

November dates

Saturday Nov 23. 6 spots left

Monday Nov 25 6 spots left

includes collaborations with legendary producers like Ron Nevison. His music, a blend of ClassicMelodic Rock influenced sounds and Americana, has earned him accolades and a dedicated following both in his home country and internationally.

The special edition of "Across The Great Divide (Album Cuts & Singles 2012-2022)" is a must-have for fans and newcomers alike, offering a comprehensive look at a decade of music from one of the most enduring voices in Americana and Melodic Rock today. Be sure to follow Cory M. Coons on his musical journey and get the latest updates by visiting his Linktree at https://linktr. ee/corymcoons.

December dates

Saturday Dec 7, 6 spots left

Monday Dec 9, 6 spots left

Lorraine Delangis Artists / Sculptor https://www.ldscreations.ca/ Cre8paverpol@gmail.com 613-884-7321

Photo created by local artist Jane Rutter, celebrating Pride month

West Nile Virus confirmed in a bird found locally

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is advising the public that a Bald Eagle in the South Grenville area has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). It is unknown if the bird acquired the virus locally or not.

West Nile virus circulates in the environment between mosquitoes and birds and sometimes is spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Humans cannot pass the virus onto mosquitoes that are not infected because we do not produce enough virus in our bloodstream. During the summer months and early fall, the Health Unit sets traps throughout the region to gather mosquito

specimens for WNV testing. In 2023, no mosquitos tested in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit were positive for WNV.

The majority of human WNV cases do not show symptoms. About 20% of infected people may have a mild flu-like illness with fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash and swollen lymph nodes or other non-specific symptoms that last several days. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or eye pain. Less than one percent of infected people will develop neuro-invasive disease, with older age groups and males disproportionately affected.

To prevent WNV:

- Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

- Cover up when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn

- Use insect repellant containing DEET or icaridin, following manufacturer’s instructions

- Remove brush and standing water from property as they use this as a habitat

- Humans cannot get WNV directly from birds, but is best to avoid interacting with dead birds if possible

If a bird is found on your property, use a shovel and gloves to pick it up and double bag it.

Are non-alcoholic beverages the better choice?

it will be big news if the trend away from alcohol to NABs results in a decrease in cancer rates.

Report the bird to Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.

For additional information on protection measures against West Nile virus such as reducing mosquito breeding sites and the safe use of insect repellents, please visit www.publichealthontario. ca or https://healthunit.org/ health-information/homehealth-safety/insect-bitesdiseases/

South Nation Conservation (SNC), Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), and Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) will be hosting public information sessions for residents to learn more about updated wetland mapping and development policies under the Government of Ontario Reg. 41/24: Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits.

Residents interested in learning more, viewing draft wetland maps and providing feedback are welcome to schedule meetings with their Conservation Authority or drop in anytime during the information sessions:

–

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Road, Cumberland, ON

3:00 pm – 8:00 pm SNC Administrative Office 38 Victoria St., Finch, ON SNC & RRCA Staff

Policy information, draft wetland maps, and meeting request links are available online: SNC: nation.on.ca/consultations RVCA: rvca.ca/regulations-planning RRCA: rrca.on.ca

Do we enjoy alcoholic drinks? We do! A relaxing drink before dinner with our loved ones is standard practice. We are supported by a landmark study involving 490,000 people involving the American Cancer Society, World Health Organization, and Oxford University that found one alcoholic drink daily decreased the risk of death by 20 percent. Moreover, moderate drinkers have increased levels of the good cholesterol. Platelets, part of the blood clotting process, are more slippery making them less likely to form a fatal blood clot. Medically, for moderate drinkers, it’s a win-win.

But irresponsible and heavy drinkers cause too many road deaths year after year. Excessive alcohol can also lead to family violence and many other societal ills. This is why non-alcoholic beverages need more promotion.

But instead of providing the alternative of a stylish, healthy non-alcoholic product, the problem remains. Whether it’s quitting smoking, going on a diet, or vowing, “I’ll stop drinking while driving in the New Year,” it rarely happens. Failing to make the change can be a deadly error. Why?

Because driving while drunk can kill an innocent child or an entire family – unthinkable consequences for such carelessness. Even without such catastrophes, drinking and driving rightly amounts to criminal charges and jail time. So why not embrace the alternative? No one gets hurt from drinking a non-alcoholic beverage (NAB).

What are the advantages of NABs and why should we promote a new trend in drinking them?

First, all the dangers of drinking are eliminated, including drunk driving. It’s estimated that the harmful use of alcohol causes 3 million deaths every year. Next, say good-bye to hangovers that cause three to eight times more absenteeism from work among heavy alcohol users. Hungover drinkers who make it to work are more likely to cause accidents leading to injuries. Heavy drinking also increases the risk of liver disease, brain damage, cancer, and immune system disfunction.

Swapping the empty calories of booze for a low-calorie NAB will help with weight loss. But people neglect to watch out for calories in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks alike, and sugary drinks, including many wines, are no good in the fight against obesity and type 2 diabetes. NABs can be loaded with sugar too, so to get the benefit, do your research before making your selection.

Ask anyone who has decreased alcohol consumption and they will tell you they sleep better. If there’s been strife in the family from alcohol, adherence to NABs can restore happiness. And

Switching to NABs can be a financial gain too. Even just a few alcoholic drinks a week can add up to over a thousand dollars per year for the consumer. But all this said, keep your mind open about the positive effects of alcohol. Alcohol in moderation has a relaxing effect that dilates arteries. This translates to a lower risk of heart attack and strokes caused by blood clots. As the saying goes, “Alcohol is for the elderly what milk is for the young.” For the depressed or anxious, alcohol isn’t the wise choice as a tool for coping, but a social drink with family and friends can be soothing at the end of a stressful day.

Taking the personal decision to drink NABs can be frustrated by friends that insist on pressing alcoholic drinks. Social settings that traditionally involve alcohol, like bars and restaurants can also be a problem. Everyone will need to adjust if the NAB trend is to grow. Let’s hear what readers think.

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