Issue 25 2023 June 29 NG Times

Hard work, cooperation, and faith

bers are very optimistic about how well things are moving along. “But I don’t want to jinx it,” Ron joked.

St. John’s United Church restoration project underway

by Brandon Mayer

A local church with a nearly two-century long history is getting some love and care this summer. Restoration work is already well underway for St. John’s United Church on Prescott Street in Kemptville. The Church’s history is long and rich. In 1831, a small 30 foot by 40 foot church was built on Clothier Street. This was the first physical location of St. John’s, though services had been previously held in church members’ homes by itinerant preachers when they visited Kemptville.

The present St. John’s building on Prescott Street was constructed beginning in 1869. The magnificent church was constructed using traditional methods and has withstood the test of time – including a fire which destroyed the interior in 1888.

St. John’s Board members Al Lockwood, Roger Shantz, Ian Carley and Ron Patterson discussed with the Times the current restoration work being undertaken. They explained that in April of 2022, while doing some routine cleanup inside the church, some “separation” was noticed in some of the pews that

had pulled away from the wall. This separation was only by about an inch or so, but it was cause for concern. An engineering firm was hired to drill a “test hole” to see what needed to be done to ensure that St. John’s can continue serving its members for the decades ahead.

“When we first discovered the ‘something’, not knowing what it was, and Al called the engineering company, I thought, ‘we’re sunk’,” said Ron. The news that repairs were possible came as a “game changer”, and gave Church members much-needed hope.

After over 150 years standing, what St. John’s needs is a restoration of about 75 feet of its foundation. The church has been fundraising to help raise the estimated $100,000 needed for the repairs. To help community members understand what their dollars are supporting, the Church has a fundraising scale that shows how much foundation repair a certain dollar amount can pay for. For example, $168.00 will pay for approximately 1/8 of a foot, while fundraising dollars of $1,335.00 can pay for an entire foot. As of May, fundraising stats show that $48,458.00 had been raised. The Board mem-

St. John’s United Church is not just a place for worship – over the years, it has grown to become a hub for the North Grenville community. When open, the Church hosts events such as Friday Friendship Lunches, Girl Guides, the North Grenville Concert Choir, and fundraising for the Rideau Hill Camp, just to name a few of the many, many activities that find a home in the Church. The newer part of the St. John’s structure is still being used for after-service social time on Sundays.

As much as St. John’s supports its members and countless community groups, the Church also feels the love and support of other congregations in the area. For example, another local church – St. Paul’s Presbyterian – has “bent over backwards” to accommodate the St. John’s parishioners during the restoration. St. Paul’s even changed the time of its worship service so that the St. John’s worship service could be worked into the Sunday schedule. Other churches in the area graciously offered their help as well.

Donations to support the restoration project can be sent by e-transfer to stjohnskemptville@gmail. com, or by cheque payable to St. John’s United Church Kemptville, and mailed to 400 Prescott St, PO Box 340, Kemptville, ON K0G1J0. If you provide your name and full address, a tax receipt will be issued for your donation. The hope is for St. John’s United Church to reopen sometime in August.

Work is currently underway on the foundation of St. John’s United Church.

Mayor’s statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG Mayor Nancy Peckford issued the following statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day:

The Municipality of North Grenville recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st, a day to celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

North Grenville’s Municipal Council encouraged residents to take this opportunity to recognize and learn more about the diverse heritage, cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Ontario and Canada.

Our country was very much shaped by the first peoples who were here for thousands of years before Canada was established, and whose practices and traditions live on despite tremendous adversity.

For as far back as oral histories can tell us, Indigenous Peoples around the world have marked the summer and winter solstices in ceremony, ritual, and celebration. Here in North America, or on Turtle Island, most Indigenous communities mark the longest day of the year by reflecting on all the good things in our lives and by giving thanks for all that the earth has shared with us.

It is also a moment to recognize and celebrate the remarkable resilience and strength of indigenous cultures and communities throughout Canada.

As we continue along the path of reconciliation, it’s important to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day and acknowledge the obstacles and intergenerational trauma Indigenous Peoples have endured, such as the tragic impact that the residential school system has had on survivors and their families and communities.

National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly known as National Aboriginal Day) was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of each year as National Aboriginal Day. This was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups.

For more information, visit the North Grenville website at: www.northgrenville.ca/ community-and-culture/community-initiatives/truth-and-reconciliation

Vintage Iron makes donation to HOL

by Brandon Mayer

A local non-profit organization, Vintage Iron and Traditions of Eastern Ontario, has joined the long list of area residents, businesses, and organizations who have made donations to the House of Lazarus in the weeks following a devastating fire at its South Mountain food bank.

Members of the Vintage Iron organization did some fundraising to support House of Lazarus, which in turn supports those in need through food banks, thrift stores, and other programs. The fundraising effort managed to accumulate a total donation of $500.

Three representatives of Vintage Iron came to the new House of Lazarus Food Bank location at 10506 Clark Road in Mountain on June 22. There, they formally made their donation, supporting countless people in need in our community.

The former House of Lazarus Food Bank location, housed in the old Scotiabank building on Main Street in South Mountain, was severely damaged by fire on April 25. The building remains standing, but the interior of the building is unusable, and a significant amount of food was destroyed. Due to an outpouring of support, the charity was back to supporting those in need a few short days after the fire. A temporary location was offered by the Mountain and District Lions Club, and a longer term location in Mountain was offered by Willis Kerr a short while later. So many people and businesses donated to House of Lazarus in the aftermath of the fire that it would be impractical to attempt to list them all – a prime example of a community “helping its helpers”.

Vintage Iron and Traditions has 160 members across Eastern Ontario. As stated on their website, the

organization is "dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of our rural life.” In addition to the important work the organization does when it comes to preserving knowledge, artifacts, and history, its members also recognize the importance of giving back to the community. One fundraiser that Vintage Iron runs regularly is a toy auction held at the Ottawa Valley Farm Show each year.

“We are grateful for this donation,” said HOL Executive Director Cathy Ashby. It’s not just the House of Lazarus that is grateful, but a whole community of people knowing that their neighbours in need are being taken care of. To learn more about Vintage Iron and Traditions of Eastern Ontario, visit https://vintageiron.ca/. To learn more about the House of Lazarus or to make a donation, visit https://hol. community/.

From left: Sylvia Payne, member; Daryle Payne, Director; Carson Hill, President; Cathy Ashby, HOL Executive Director; Kim Merkley, HOL Operations Manager.

Happy Canada Day

DAY 2023

Parade starts from Hilltop Manor at 12:00, heads North along St. Lawrence Street to Blockhouse Park.

Official Ceremonies and Cake in Blockhouse Park starting at 12:45pm

Followed by the Lions BBQ and Live Music, featuring Southbound, The Sutterlands and Jah Cutta, until 4:00pm

Family activities in the Fairgrounds 1-4pm including a Slo Pitch Game, Bouncy Castle and Cotton Candy

Cornhole Mini-Tournament Yard Games

Bouncy Castle

Cotton Candy

BBQ Hot Dogs and Cake

Prizes and Treat Bags for the kids

Open Mic with Gary Roberts at the Goose and Gridiron starting at 5:30pm

CANADA DAY 2023 Oxford Mills

The Hamlet of Oxford Mills is preparing to once again host Canada Day revelers from near and far starting at 11:30 at Maplewood Park. This year the festivities will commence with the Legion Pipe Band leading everyone to the flagpole for the raising of our national flag and the singing of O Canada. All are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to make themselves comfortable under the maple trees while being entertained by an excellent lineup of local musicians. In order of performances, there will be Birds of a Feather, The Front Porch Sitters and Tyler Comeau and Highway 10.

There will be a variety of food available including the Lion’s Club BBQ, Sunset Sweets Ice Cream and Erick Le Pors’ delicious crepes. Best of all, free Canada Day cupcakes will be served in the afternoon. For the more active members of the community, there will also be a Sword fighting demonstration, a Kids Craft Tent, old-fashioned games and free face painting.

This is a free event with street parking except for accessible parking.

Come and join us at the best venue for celebrating Canada Day in the region.

Submitted by the Oxford Mills Community Association

11:45 - 12:10: Legion Pipe Band and flag raising

12:20 - 1:05: Band 1 - Birds of a Feather

1:25 - 2:25: Band 2 - The Front Porch Sitters

2:45 - 3:45: Band 3 - Tyler Comeau & Highway 10

1303 Kingdom Rd., Kemptville 613.258.6607

Health Unit Beach Testing Program starts next week

submitted by Susan Healey

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit will be starting this year’s weekly water sampling of 23 public bathing beaches around the Leeds Grenville and Lanark area. The results of the testing will appear on our website and social media starting on Friday, June 30, 2023 and be posted weekly until September 1st.

The public beaches that are being tested in the north area are: Almonte Beach on the Mississippi; Centennial Beach in Carleton Place on the Mississippi, Riverside Beach in Carleton Place on the Mississippi, Pakenham Beach on the Mississippi, Dalhousie Lake Beach Lanark Highlands (McDonalds Corners), Roberston Lake Beach in Lanark Highlands (Lavant), Lanark Village Beach, Rideau Ferry Yacht Club, Smiths Falls Junior and Senior beaches, and Merrickville Beach (Rideau Canal) .

The public beaches that are being tested in the south area are: Bellamy Park Beach in Toledo, Foley Mountain Beach in Westport, Joel Stone Beach in Gananoque, Kelly’s Beach in Prescott, Kendrick’s Park Beach in Lyndhurst, Lower Beverly Lake beach in Delta, Lyn Valley Park beach in Lyn, Campbell Street Beach in Portland, Sandy Bay beach in Charleston Lake, Sand Lake Beach in Westport, South Crosby Beach, and St. Lawrence Park Beach in Brockville.

Beaches are sampled once a week and monitored for E. Coli. Research has shown that when people are swimming or in the water (bathing) at beaches where the water has a high E. Coli level (above the standard of 200), there is a direct relationship with an increase in ear, eye, nose and throat infections in swimmers. Therefore, when samples exceed 200, the beach is posted with a warning sign “unsafe for bathing”. The bathing beach will remain posted until test results indicate that the water quality meets the bathing beach water standard. To help you to better understand “Why Beaches are Posted”, check out the Health Unit website Beaches page.

Testing the water for bacteria is one factor used to determine water quality. The quality of surface water is changeable, so the health unit advises bathers to consider other issues that may affect the quality and safety of the water, such as heavy rain within 24 hours and water fowl droppings in the water or on the beach as these may contribute to high bacteria levels. Beach goers should also be on the lookout for the presence of harmful algal blooms and signs of accidental spills that may pollute the water.

It’s important to remember that the samples the Health Unit takes are only the results for that specific moment in time. It can take days to get results from that sample. Water quality can change day to day or even within a few hours. Beach testing is only one small piece of information you can use to determine whether you’re comfortable with swimming, and it’s always important to examine the beach and water before you swim.

Change rooms and washrooms may not always be open to the public, so come prepared for the beach by changing at home. Remember to bring hand sanitizer so that you can clean your hands frequently, especially before eating.

Information about recreational water safety and beach water testing results for each week are posted by Friday at 9am on our Weekly Beach Results page, @LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter or by calling 1-800-660-5853.

New Adventures features area bakeries and cafés

light Westport as a wonderful spot to shop.”

Culinary tourism is a rapidly growing sector within the broader tourism industry. It offers a unique way for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, connect with the community, and create memorable experiences.

submitted by Deanna Clark

A new “Fresh Baked Adventures” culinary tour featuring 12 area bakeries and 7 cafés is off to a very sweet start. The self-driving Adventures initiative was launched today at the Kemptville Public Library by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.

Area bakers, chefs and business owners made it enticing with a selection of signature baked goods and breads for everyone in attendance to sample. “This region has always been known for our breathtaking landscapes, rich history and warm welcome,” Leeds Grenville Warden Nancy Peckford said in welcoming the group to the North Grenville community where she is Mayor.

“With the introduction of signature culinary tourism experiences such as Fresh Baked Adventures, we are adding a new dimension to our tourism offerings, highlighting the tasty treasures

that lie within our communities,” Warden Peckford said. On behalf of Counties Council, Warden Peckford also expressed gratitude to the 19 participating businesses for their commitment to making the region “a more delicious place for local citizens and visitors.”

A Counties webpage lists all participants with a map of their locations. See the full itinerary here and visit https://discover. leedsgrenville.com/freshbakedadventures “. We are so excited to launch a brand new tourism experience that will draw people in and help them explore all corners of the Counties,” said Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer with Leeds Grenville.

“By focusing on our bakeries and cafés, we are celebrating an age-old tradition that brings people together, fosters community pride, and reflects the diverse culinary heritage of our region,” Ms. McFarlane said. Each bakery in the Adventures tour offers its

own unique flavours and stories, providing a truly authentic experience for our visitors. “What interested us in becoming involved in this program is we love to experience what other bakers are doing and network and grow as a community,” said Daphne Sword, co-owner of Tasty Goodness Bake Shop in Westport.

“We believe as a small business this really is an amazing way to improve tourism and promote the region,” Ms. Sword said. “It will not only create a greater awareness to our small little community, it will also drive increased visitors and high-

The Counties Economic Development Office completed a regional tourism destination strategy last year. It recognized the importance of the region working collaboratively toward the common goal of increasing visitation to Leeds Grenville. As part of the implementation, the United Counties have formally adopted the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways brand and are evolving existing tourism products and experiences while developing new ones, including Fresh Baked Adventures.

The Fresh Baked Adventures announcement is the second of three, with the first being the Garden Adventures announced last week. The new Foodie Shop Adventures initiative will be launched on July 6th.

are open for your convenience during these troubled times"

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY

Residents of the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville & the Towns of Prescott and Gananoque can drop off Household Hazardous Waste

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023

Spencerville Fairgrounds

N. Grenville County Patrol Garage

Goodin Road Entrance 720 County Rd. # 44 (North end of fairgrounds) (South of Kemptville)

8:30 am – 2:00 pm

8:30 am – 2:00 pm

Materials accepted include petroleum products, oil filters, antifreeze, paints & solvents, batteries, propane tanks, fertilizers, pesticides, light bulbs, fluorescent light bulbs/tubes and pharmaceuticals, all of which are “household” in nature. Private/commercial business waste will not be accepted.

Materials not accepted include commercial and/or industrial waste, electronics, appliances, flares, explosives, PCB’s and radioactive materials. Waste from other municipalities including the City of Brockville will not be accepted.

Questions? Call 342-3840 ext. 2413

Funding announcement brings high speed internet to NG

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

On June 15, the federal government, in partnership with Ontario, announced funding to bring high speed internet to eastern Ontario – including North Grenville.

The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development, joined the Honourable Kinga Surma, Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure, along with Goldie Ghamari, Member of Provincial Parliament for Carleton, to announce over $71 million in combined federal and provincial funding for Bell Canada and Cogeco to bring high speed internet access to more than 22,000 homes in 74 rural communities across eastern Ontario

“We are absolutely thrilled by this announcement which will help so many more of North Grenville’s residents and businesses attain high speed internet,” emphasized Mayor Nancy Peckford.

“We know how essential improved broadband is for work, business, entertainment, and to connect with friends and family. This announcement is a crucial next step for thousands of North Grenville residents,” added Mayor Peckford.

North Grenville is part of the group of communities that will receive up to $13,700,000 that will see over 6,000 homes and businesses with increased access to high speed internet.

Bell Canada has been awarded funding to build a fibre broadband infrastructure network in North Grenville. Permits are being issued.

Mayor Peckford and municipal staff have been working on actioning the strategic priorities identified in the Broadband Study, including investigating best practices for partnerships with ISPs, meeting with ISPs to better determine their needs, providing letters of support for funding, informing residents about community builds, and bettering communications regarding broadband initiatives.

Residents who wish to run speed tests are encouraged to use the following website: https://performance.cira.ca/. This information is used by the federal government to inform mapping and funding decisions.

Quick Facts:

Ontario launched a new interactive online map that shows where provincially funded high speed internet projects are planned, are currently under way or have been recently completed in communities across the Province. Ontarians can use the map to search by address, community or municipality, learn about projects happening in their area, and find out where high speed internet service is currently available.

In 2022, Xplore was awarded funding to build broadband infrastructure in North Grenville. Permits are being issued.

Rogers announced a community build in October 2021 and permits are being issued.

UPDATE

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Visit our events calendar to find out what’s happening in the community: www.northgrenville.ca/events

Sign-up to receive Mayor Peckford’s e-newsletter at: northgrenville.ca/connect.

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETINGS

Please see the Council agenda for further details on how to participate in Council meetings. All Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/featured and on the Municipality’s website at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting to clerk@northgrenville.on.ca Council agendas are available at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

• Friday, June 30, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (Closed Session) – Catered

Affairs

• Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. (Open Session) – Bishop’s Mills Hall, Bishop’s Mills

• Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) – Council Chambers

• Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. (Open Session) – Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall, Burritt’s Rapids

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committees may be meeting in-person or virtually. Please see the Committee agenda for details on how to attend. Agendas can be found on the Municipal website at www. northgrenville.ca/meetings

• Community and Economic Development Advisory Committee – Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at 3:30 p.m.

• Agriculture and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee – Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at 4:15 p.m.

• Housing Advisory Committee – Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Municipal Clerk

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill the position of Municipal Clerk in the Corporate Services Department. For a full list of available positions and information on how to apply, please visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers. Please submit applications to hr@northgrenville.on.ca by 4:00 p.m. Thursday, June 29th, 2023.

Advisory Committees

The Municipality continues to accept applications for members to various advisory committees. Join the conversation regarding the community!

Visit northgrenville.ca/committees for more information on how to apply. For questions, please contact the Clerk by email at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca or by telephone at 613-2589569 ext 171

TAX BILLS

All 2023 final tax bills have been mailed. If you have not received your bill, please contact the Municipal Office at 613-258-9569. The due dates are June 30 and September 29. Payments can be made in person by cash or debit. Credit card is available only when paying online through the North Grenville website.

NORTH GRENVILLE IN BLOOM

North Grenville is participating in Communities in Bloom, which is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the aesthetic appeal of communities across Ontario. North Grenville is looking for residents and businesses to participate by sharing photos and details of their blooms. We will be putting together a profile book and tour of the community for the judges visiting the second week of August.

If you’re interested in taking part in the initiative, including contributing to the profile book, tour, or submitting your beautiful photos of local gardens and landscapes, visit the North Grenville in Bloom project page on northgrenville.ca/projects. For more information, contact vision@ northgrenville.on.ca.

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130 , Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620

general@northgrenville.on.ca

www.NorthGrenville.ca

Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441

Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201

Fax: 613-258-1031

By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca

613-258-9569 x211

Police Administration: 613-258-3441

Animal Control: 613-862-9002

Popcorn party

by Brandon Mayer

If we ever needed an even better reason to hate Facebook than the multitude of reasons that already exist, we may have gotten exactly that last week. News Media Canada writes that Meta, the company that owns Facebook, “announced last week that it would begin a test that would block news content for some Canadians on its Facebook and Instagram platforms, in preparation for the potential passage of Bill C-18, the Online News Act by federal parliamentarians.”

I don’t agree with much that Prime Minister Trudeau’s government does, but I have no qualms about Bill C-18. The Bill would require large media companies like Facebook and Google to compensate small news companies for articles that they use on their platforms. Why? Companies like Facebook and Google are immensely wealthy, yet their users know them as “free”. Indeed, their wealth comes not from subscription fees or user fees, but from advertising. Quality content is a necessity for online advertising to be effective. No one watches

TV just for the commercials, just as no one browses the internet just for ads. Content creators, including small news agencies, therefore deserve to be compensated for the content they produce. The large social media and search engine companies that use this content have ample funds to do so.

I wouldn’t expect a large, greedy business to have compassion, common sense, or even maturity. But the hissy fit that Meta is throwing over Bill C-18 takes the cake on the immaturity scale. It is also selfish and potentially dangerous. As News Media Canada President Paul Deegan puts it, “Meta’s decision to ‘unfriend’ Canada by denying access to trusted sources of news for some of their users, as wildfires burn and when public safety is at stake, is irresponsible and tone deaf.”

Those of us who work in the independently and locally owned print news industry – and whose work is therefore unaffected by conglomerate hissy fits – are sitting back and watching the petty battle unfold. It’s a veritable popcorn party of “sitting and observing”. It’s so tempting to stand up and

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, I'm just reading this article in the NG Times and I must say it is very shallow minded. I have been lucky to share my life, and still am, with some wonderful cats. Never have I been attacked by any of them. They have given me unconditional love and made me smile and laugh every day, how fortunate am I!! Washing my hands after cleaning litter boxes is just common sense, like washing my hands after I use the bathroom. Cats are one of the cleanest animals on earth, cleaner than some people. Having a pet comes with responsibilities, again common sense. All the cats that have owned me were and are indoor cats. They are quite content with their toys and catnip and supervis-

sarcastically lament, “if only there was a way people could get trusted news delivered right to their door or mailbox, in printed format, with no interference from disgustingly rich Americans… oh wait!”

What is most insulting about this situation is the mockery it makes of capitalism. The ability to open and run an independent business, making one’s own way in life, helping customers and supporting employees is a hallmark of capitalism. Greed gives capitalism a bad image.

Think of all the small, independently owned businesses in North Grenville, and the tremendous amount of work that local entrepreneurs put into making these businesses successful. Many small business owners can’t pay themselves for several years after they first start their business. They are experts in doing work on the basis of a handshake and the strength of their word. They employ well over half of all Canadian workers. And they eliminate the environmental impacts of unnecessary travel by keeping goods and services nearby.

Now think of what would

Dear Editor,

happen if small business owners behaved like Google or Facebook. Take the B&H grocery store, for example.

Celebrating 60 years in business, it did not come this far or earn its stellar reputation from greed. Can you imagine a grocery story insisting that its food suppliers give up their food for free so that it can turn around and sell the food for massive profits?

It’s unheard of, and it’s a request that would be quickly laughed off. The sad thing is – Facebook and Google aren’t just asking for this to happen – they are currently getting away with it! They reuse content produced by small news agencies, fail to pay for the content, and then use it to produce ad revenue.

It’s not stealing in a legal sense, but it is analogous to a small business owner demanding that someone else pay to stock their shelves so that they can reap all the benefits!

More revealing information from News Media Canada: “Earlier this year, Google rolled out tests that block access to news content for some Canadian users in the event C-18 becomes law.” Google had a revenue of $279.8 billion in 2022.

Billion – with a “B”. Most of this money was generated by ads. These ads have absolutely no value without consumers seeing them. And consumers have no desire to see ads, so they must be lured into seeing the ads using quality content. There is no reason why Google can’t afford to pay the people who produce that quality content. For those who need some context – Google made enough money in 2022 to pay every man, woman, and child in Canada over $7,000 each. Google’s revenue could virtually end world hunger in a single day. Yet we are not asking for miracles and grand gestures – we are simply asking that

they have enough compassion to pay the hard working people who made their fortune for them.

We must all wait to see if Google and Facebook will follow through on their threat to stop showing internet news to Canadians. The move is not as powerful as it seems – the companies would essentially be wiping out a huge portion of their own revenue from an entire country of 38 million people by refusing to show those people the content that draws them into the ads. In the meantime, we shall throw a popcorn party. Grab your bowl, and a newspaper, and watch the drama unfold.

ing all kinds of birds from the safety of their house. Whether you have a cat or a dog, if you treat them with the respect they deserve, return the unconditional love, treat them like family because they are for sure members of the family and provide a warm and comfortable loving home, they are hardly likely to attack you. Your article borders on paranoia of having a cat. Hopefully people won't take you seriously and continue to provide a home for all felines in need. Adopt a cat, or two, today!

Claudia Shepheard, Kemptville

My husband and I picked up our copy of the North Grenville Times on Thursday, June 15th. As I was reading through the paper this morning, I turned to page 11 and there was the announcement of the "50th Wedding Anniversary" of Kevin and Ethel Ferguson. Our family, my husband, me, and our two teenage children moved to North Grenville from our native Nova Scotia the summer of 1997, before the Great Ice Storm of January of 1998. What a “Welcome To Ontario” that was. Once we were settled, I began looking for work. Through a temp agency, I was able to secure a temporary position as an assistant to the Project Engineer at the Canadian Space Agency in Shirley's Bay. At that

time, Ethel Ferguson was the assistant to the Director of the Agency. I don't know if Kevin and Ethel remain in the countryside outside of Osgoode. However, I was so pleased to see their 50th Wedding Anniversary photo and to wish them all “Blessings and Happiness for many, many more years”. Good Health and Happiness.

Sincerely,

Josephine (Joey) Herman

Dear Editor,

To MPP Clark:

What healthcare successes?

On June 19th, you announced additional funding for Brockville General Hospital and Kemptville District Hospital. While announcing the funding you said, “It just builds upon some of

these successes that we’ve been able to do over the last five years.” We have to ask, what successes are you talking about? In the last five years, we’ve seen rural ER closures in evenings and over weekends become regular occurrences. We’ve seen people waiting hours in ERs to see doctors and waiting days in the ER to be admitted to hospital. We’ve seen staff shortages caused in part by the pay suppression in Bill 124, which has been struck down by the courts, yet Premier Ford is determined to appeal. We’ve seen the number of people in Ontario without a family doctor or nurse practitioner balloon to an estimated 2.2 million.

These are not just numbers, they are real people whose health has been affected. They’re our friends, neighbours, and families. As

a community pharmacist, I see people every day who are suffering due to failures in our healthcare system.

Ontario’s healthcare system is in a worse state than it was five years ago. This additional funding is like sticking a band-aid over a gaping wound. Premier Ford and his PC government must stop defending unfair wage-limiting legislation like Bill 124 and ensure that our dedicated nurses have decent wages and working conditions. They must make major investments in our public healthcare system and drop the pretence that privatization is the only route to improvement.

Ontario is in robust financial health and it’s time the Ford government started acting like it, and truly look after Ontarians.

Steve Gabell

Letters cont'd on page 17

Fireworks Sponsor

program through the Kemptville Youth Centre, the youth sports programs and more.

by Wendy Embleton

It is no secret that I am in love with this community we call North Grenville. Since raising my boys in the early years on the outskirts of town to moving my business here over the past years, I have an overwhelming sense of home within these streets. Because of the people. One person in particular has always made me smile and it is sad for our community this year to see this fine gentlemen leave NG and move onto his next step.

Frank Hoffman is known to many here as Canadian Tire Frank. His smile and blessed

attitude in our cherished Canadian Tire store and his contribution to many of our community and cultural events has been a gift that we often don't see. During the pandemic Frank would reach out to our community groups asking how he could support, he worked tirelessly to protect his employees and his community and with an email or a phone call he was always trying to assist in any way he was able.

Through the wonderful Jump Start program Frank pushes to help more and more every year benefit from the generosity of the

I choose to focus on the joy for Frank being off to his next step in London Ontario to a community I know will benefit and love him as much as we have over these years. To Frank I know I speak on behalf of your Kempville District Community Association when I say Thank You and best of luck! We hope you return often to visit and relish in the many programs and lives you have had such a strong impact on. To your successor, we look forward to meeting the man that will have very large shoes to fill! Without a doubt North Grenville will welcome him with open arms and appreciation.

Thanks to you Frank, the residents of North Grenville can enjoy a lovely display of fireworks!

Yoshi - Juggler

Spring Action Trampoline

Husband and Wife team Heather and Sean are Olympic level performers, who are also trampoline coaches. They bring their kids into the show (their kids are training to be extreme snowboarders and skiers, and are amazing on the trampoline.) The Spring Action trampoline show is fun for the whole family with high flying acrobatics, flips, and stunts, combined with physical comedy, high energy music..

Its a great show

He juggles, he's funny, he's travelled around the world with his show, and he's great for a family audience. Since he's a street performer and he brings everything he needs, his show can work on grass or equally well onstage. His finale, he balances on a balance board, on a table and juggles dangerous stuff. He even brings a high end, battery powered sound system, and you won't have to worry about power for him.

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.

CANADA DAY 2023

Kemptville

Maps and Schedules on site the day of

Time Event Location

8am-10am Legion Breakfast Legion

10:30- 11am Opening Ceremonies In front of Legion

11am-10:30pm Licensed Refreshments Ball Diamond 1

11:30am Kemptville Infinity Spirit Team Grass near Diamond 3

11:30am Caricature Artist Beside Myers Trucks

11:30am-5pm Ben Balloon Guy Roaming

11:30-noon Yoshi Juggler Between ball diamond

11:45pm Paws for Fun Agility Grass on Diamond 3

1-1:30pm Spring Action Trampoline Grass between Diamonds 1 & 3 Noon-1:30pm Got ya Covered Main Stage - Diamond 1

1pm Bingo Legion

1:30pm Canada Day Cupcakes Tent between ball diamonds

2 - 3:30pm Three for the show Main Stage -Diamond 1

2-2:30pm Library Caitlin Music and Story Near Play Structure

3-3:30pm Yoshi Juggler Tent/Grass between ball diamonds

4-5:30pm Scott Arena Main Stage - Diamond 1

6- 730pm Garrison Blues Main Stage - Diamond 1

7-9:45pm Free Family Glow Dance Party Legion

8:30pm -Close 3 Pistols Main Stage - Diamond 1

10 approx Fire Works

Hosted by Kemptville Infinity & Kemptville Psychology & Counselling

Brad the Balloon Guy

Have you ever seen the Star Wars Millennium Falcon made out of balloons? If you can dream it, Brad the Balloon Guy can do it! This balloon artist with a friendly, east-coaster attitude brings a decade of stage experience, amazing skills, and a great sense of humor to his shows. Incorporating the audience, Brad accommodates special requests on the spot.

There’s nothing he can’t build with his balloons!

FOOD VENDORS

VENDORS

Safe and effective responses to stress

food stores, available in supplement form from trusted producers like Certified Naturals who carefully control ingredients and offer the dosages that match clinical studies.

The Food Corner

By Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

I had a faint memory of Ma Cormier (that’s my ma Yvonne) serving us a very delicious boiled ham back when I was a kid. I hadn’t tasted it since then, so Beth and I gave it a whirl as a joint effort. Below is what we learned with our recipe while being very satisfied with the result. Why? 1) a good deal of the fat is boiled off and then skimmed; 2) there is a lot less salt content to your ham; 3) the ham is just sweetish enough and melts in your mouth. By the way, Beth wanted to serve the ham cold as a summer meal with salads for a combination Anniversary and Father’s Day event. So, while there are other recipes on line that you might wish to check, this is our take on it.

Beth and Paul’s Boiled Ham

What is the world coming to? Recent news has artificial intelligence (AI) researchers and CEOS warning of an “extinction risk” from the technology running wild. Forest fires are literally running wild too. Nuclear war might take us out. Or economic collapse. If these things don’t get you stressed, then how about the rest of the pressures of everyday life?

Stress is, according to the World Health Organization, “a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives.” What a gentle way to put it. Scientific experiments attempting to identify the health impacts of stress suggest this natural response may be taking years off life expectancy.

In one study, Stanford and University of California cell biologists, biochemists, and psychologists examined blood cells in the body’s immune system, comparing highly stressed individuals with a comparable unstressed group. They found the cells looked different in three ways.

First, the cells of the stressed group had shorter telomeres—bits of DNA—and by this shorter length, appearing 10 years older than the chronological age of the participants. Second, the stressed group also had lower levels of telomerase, an enzyme that repairs damaged telomeres. Third, the cells of the stressed group had higher levels of free radicals, a volatile molecule that can damage DNA.

Other studies have shown the negative ef-

fects of stress on the nervous system, digestive system, cardiovascular system, memory, behaviours, and so on.

Studies on longevity and stress suggest it’s less a question of whether or what kind of stress you face, it’s how you feel about it and how you respond. The comedian, George Burns, who famously lived to 100, remarked, “If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn’t ask me, I’d still have to say it.” Humour is an excellent antidote to stress.

Other natural approaches are also recommended as a first line of defence. Having a drink at the cocktail hour qualifies. In our opinion, for some people, the benefits of moderate alcohol consumption can outweigh the risks recently making news.

We’ve also recommended natural supplements, such as Stress Resist, a concentrated extract of ashwagandha root. Used in Indian traditional medicine for over 3000 years, it has more recently been shown in scientific studies to be effective in relieving stress and anxiety. You can fi nd it at natural health

How does it work? Ashwagandha has neuroprotective and antiinflammatory properties. In a 2019 study, a daily dose of ashwagandha significantly reduced stress levels when compared with a placebo. This included reduced levels of cortisol, a stress hormone released in response to stress as well as when blood sugar levels get too low.

High cortisol levels are also associated with hunger cravings and resulting weight gain.

A two-month study of high-stressed individuals involved researchers providing two doses of 300 mg of ashwagandha to one group and a placebo to another. The group receiving ashwagandha had a 33% reduction in perceived stress and a 22% reduction in cortisol. Patients supplementing ashwagandha also had a 3.0% reduction in weight versus a 1.4% reduction in those taking the placebo.

Stress is a very personal thing and so is how you choose to ease it. Always remember, the best first course of action in fighting any health threat is to assess whether there is a safe, effective, natural solution.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@ docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_ jones

Ingredients

• 1 average size smoked ham (with the bone in), like an Easter ham

• 2 containers of apple juice (the one litre size)

• 1 litre of water

• ½ cup of brown sugar

• ¼ cup molasses (my idea, we had some leftover in the cupboard)

• 3 tablespoons of black pepper

Preparation

1. Place the ham face down (bone up) in a stock pot (we have a nice one that’s a joy to use)

2. Mix the apple juice, water, brown sugar, molasses and pepper in a separate container

3. Pour the liquid over the ham to submerge it

4. Bring the liquid to a boil, reduce the heat and let the ham boil for 1 ½ hours

5. Take the ham off the heat, let it cool, then refrigerate it overnight

6. Next day, skim the fat off the top of the liquid (you’ll get a surprising amount)

7. Take the ham out and slice with a sharp knife (it slices cleanly, nicely and falls off the bone)

Ok, so we boiled it a bit longer than an hour and a half; we now estimate that that length of time is about right to have a nice boiled ham that still has integrity, i.e., it doesn’t fall part. Ours did, but just a little, so adjust the time according to your needs. Also, this recipe doesn’t produce any gelatine, so the liquid remains that way (a plus for slicing). Beth served the sliced ham with a gluten-free pasta salad (for Emma), potato salad and our maple walnut salad. Some raw veggies were also available. My favourite mustard, Octoberfest, was on the table. I should mention that Mrs. McGarrigle’s makes a grainy Octoberfest that is downright delicious (no surprise, really). Pick up a jar, it’s worth it and while doing so, take a tour of Merrickville. I hope you are feeling adventurous and will want to try this different take on ham, perhaps to enjoy at an outside buffet with all the salad trimmings.

Best for a great summer from Paul at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

Council approves new Arts and Culture Development Fund

submitted

by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

A new Arts and Culture Development Fund has been created to support and strengthen the arts in the Municipality of North Grenville.

“We are thrilled to leverage some modest municipal funding for innovative, and highcalibre projects and programming that promote access to arts and culture in the community for residents of all ages,” highlighted Mayor Nancy Peckford.

An annual $10,000 has been allocated to the Arts and Culture Development Fund.

The purpose of this annual fund is to stimulate growth and leverage additional resources for the arts and culture sector. The funding is meant to support individual artists, groups of artists, and arts organizations in North Grenville.

“This fund is intended to support and help showcase the rich and diverse artistic and cultural contributions within the Municipality of North Grenville,” added Deputy Mayor John Barclay, Co-Chair of the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee.

“As the Co-chair of the North Grenville Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, I speak for the Committee when I say how excited we are to be an active part of cultural development in North Grenville, and to see the community response to this development fund,” emphasized Lisa Poushinky.

Application Process:

Interested and eligible applicants can download an application on the North Grenville website at www.northgrenville.ca or pick up a hard copy at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 CR44, Kemptville.

There is $20,000 in the 2023 fund (an accumulation of funding from 2022 and 2023), with amounts awarded to individuals and groups between $250 and $3,000.

The deadline to submit an application is Monday, July 24 at 5:00pm.

Eligible projects must take place in North Grenville and must align with the Arts and Culture Development Fund’s objectives.

Successful applicants will be notified in early September.

“We look forward to celebrating and further promoting and strengthening arts and culture in our community,” added Councillor Debbie Wilson, member of the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee.

For more information about the Arts and Culture Development Fund, visit www.northgrenville.ca/community-and-culture/recreation/arts-and-culture.

FOR SALE

Green, corduroy couch approx 7 feet wide. Two end sections recline. Clean and in excellent condition. $300.00 613-258-5831

Upright Weber piano, $200.00. 613-258-5831

Free, two industrial electric motors and a free jointer planer. Call Doug 613 258-4573 (Kemptville)

Mastercraft 10-inch mitre saw w. stand (brand new - never used) $150. Weight bench w. bar/ plates (150lb) $50. 613314-6811 (voice or text).

Now booking orders for new crop small square bales of hay. Call or text Jon. 613-227-3650

2016 JAYCO RV, JAY FLIGHT SLX. 21'6". In good condition. Email nadfudt@gmail.com for details and picture

Dollhouse, Foxhall Manor by Real Good Toys, with side extensions. Currently under refurbishment. $1500. tineboyer@gmail.com

Harmonica Phe 64 Chromonica, 4 Octaves, professional model, M Hohner, Germany. Contact 613-567-8533

Cedar posts and rails for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

4X4 round bales of hay and straw for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

Cedars for hedging, 2' tp 10', Tamarac & Spruce. Call Jim after 6pm 613-258-3561

Dry firewood for sale $110 a cord plus delivery fee. Call or text Jon 613-2273650

MISCELLANEOUS

HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritts Rapids!

Start a book club in time for cooler weather in a hamlet near walking trails and parkettes. Our hall is well equipped for any gathering or celebration, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids.com

WANTED

Looking to harvest cedar trees for hedges off acreages from landowners. Please call Joanne 613-799-0958

Experienced+local farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com.

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

FOR RENT

Property for rent for spring & fall deer & turkey hunting. Call Jim after 6pm 613-258-3561

RECURRING EVENT

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

BREAKFAST, Kemptville Legion! Every 3rd Saturday from 8-10am - $8 for adults, $6 for children 10 and under. Euchre will be held following breakfast, registration starts at 11:30 am.

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

BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, doors open at noon

NG Duplicate Bridge Club Bridge, 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

EUCHRE on Tuesday, July 11, 25, August 8, 22, September 5 and 19 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, July 4, 18, August 1, 15, 29, September 12 and 26 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

South Gower Cemetery Memorial Service Sunday July 2 at 2:30 pm

Kemptville Snowmobile Klub BBQ and entertainment Sunday July 16. Pulled

chicken on a bun with salads and dessert $25. Entertainment by the band 'Hillbilly Highway'. Show starts at 2:30 pm and meal served at 5:00 pm. Takeouts available. Call Bruce at 613-258-3648 or Penny at 613-285-4069. BYOB and lawn chairs.

Canada Day History

Revolutionary Resolutions

was supplied by the Harmony Band of Smith’s Falls, this being one of those periods when Kemptville was without a band of its own. The people then adjourned back to the Hall for a supper, also served by the ladies of the Catholic Church. By the time a big storm blew in that evening, the crowds had already wound their way home.

by David Shanahan

by David Shanahan

Canada Day has become such a central part of the Canadian year that it is easy to forget that it is a very recent arrival on the scene.

On October 27, 1982, the Parliament of Canada initiated Canada Day following the repatriation of the Canadian Constitution that year. Before 1982, July 1 was known as Dominion Day, and had been acknowledged as Canada’s birthday from the date when the British North America Act came into force in 1867. The following year, 1868, the Governor General at the time suggested that Canadians celebrate Dominion Day as their National Holiday.

Surprisingly, Dominion Day was not itself a major event for decades after 1867. It took another ten years before there was any legislation passed in recognition of the holiday. In fact, the first official government celebration of Dominion Day only happened in 1917, on the 50th anniversary of Confederation. The Canadian Government started organising official celebrations in 1958, and it was after that that the name “Canada Day” started to be used. There was, however, great argument among Canadians about using that term, as it seemed a break with tradition. However, the plain truth is that there was very little tradition of Dominion Day celebrations before the 1950's.

In North Grenville one hundred years ago, Domin-

ion Day was a hit and miss affair. Some years, there were celebrations in Kemptville, other years the day passed without comment or activities of any kind. It seems that the day’s events depended on various groups and organisations within the community, just as is true today. In 1911, the events were sponsored by the local Catholic Church congregation. A large dinner was held in the Agricultural Hall, put on by the ladies of the congregation, and was attended by the Secretary of State, Charles Murphy, as well as the local M.P.P., G. Howard Ferguson. Murphy pointed out that the occasion was “not racial, not sectarian; but national”, and praised the rise of Imperial sentiment in Canada in the years since Confederation. Ferguson, who would one day be Premier of Ontario, stated that the Province was the best place in the country, and would “remain the Banner Province of the Dominion”.

After the speeches came the athletics. Races were held over various distances, from the hundred yards dash, to the two-mile marathon. Needless to say, only males were allowed to race. No one from Kemptville won a race, though in the Boys’ Race, W. McGovern of Oxford came first, and Harold McGahey came second. The big event of the afternoon was the baseball match between Kemptville and Merrickville, which the home team won 3 -2. Music throughout

In 1912, it was the Baseball Club that ran the day’s events. The day started with a parade, or a “Trade Procession” as it was called then. It began at Riverside Park, wound around the streets, and ended up back at the Park again. The parade was led by the Texan Ranger Band from Ottawa. Who they were is unclear, but the Texan theme ran through the day’s festivities. The Band, accompanied by two pipers, played for an hour outside the Advance building on Prescott Street, filling in the time before the main event of the day: the sports activities in Riverside Park, where there were races, both human and horse, and a wonderful event called “Catch the Greasy Pig”. The big baseball game was between Kemptville and Spencerville, and all went well aside from some Spencerville teenagers who took to insulting anyone not from their town.

In the evening, there was a special concert at the Oddfellows Hall, which included an escape artist, whose ability to free himself from handcuffs and the “torture cabinet” amazed the audience. There were also “Scotch” dancers, and comedy from Sam and Guss, “the colored comedians”. And, to round off the day, the Texan Concert Orchestra provided the music for a dance at the Hall.

The following year, 1913, it seems that there were no celebrations, pos-

The Quebec Conferen ce of October, 1864 is where the famous 72 Resolutions were drawn up. These, in turn, became the basis of the British North America Act of 1867 which established the new Dominion of Canada. In spite of the importance of the Quebec meetings, very little is known about what actually happened there, as meetings were closed and confidential, no records or minutes exist of the deliberations, and it is extremely difficult to discover precisely what options and alternatives were discussed by the delegates. Even so, later memoirs and interviews have allowed us to catch a glimpse into the often serious debates and disagreements which eventually led to the 72 Resolutions as they were published following the conference.

One thing we know that was a source of dispute at both Charlottetown and Quebec,

sibly owing to the lack of an organising group. But looking at the reports of Dominion Day one hundred years ago, what is surprising is how little it has changed. They had Dominion Day, and we have Canada Day. We still have our activities through the afternoon in both Kemptville and Oxford Mills, and an evening of music to end the day at Riverside Park. They had concerts and we have fireworks. But the event is still focussed on the celebration of Canada and its people. For years before the Government saw fit to celebrate the day officially, the people of North Grenville were marking the occasion with music, fun and sports. Long may that continue.

perhaps surprisingly for us, was the composition of the Executive Council. This is the chamber we know of as the Senate, and the main area of disagreement dealt with how many members each of the British American provinces would get. The Canadian view was based on the assumption that the Maritime provinces would unite into a single entity, a new Acadia, and so they suggested that three sectors, Upper Canada, Lower Canada and Acadia, would each have an equal number of seats in the chamber.

The possible inclusion of Newfoundland, which was not at first an official participant at Quebec, threw that calculation out, and the other three, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, particularly the latter, argued for a greater share for themaelves. The further problem was raised by the hope that British Columbia and the Northwest Territories (as it was then) would also join Confederation and require seats in the upper chamber.

Other serious questions revolved around the distribution of powers between the Federal Government and the local legislatures. The majority of delegates, as well as the British Government in London, favoured a strong central government and saw the provincial assemblies as glorified municipalities. There was also an awareness of how strong state governments had helped bring about the Civil War in the United States, and there was a determination not to repeat that mistake. However, both Lower Canada (which became the Province of Quebec) and members of the Maritime delegations were intent on maintaining some form of government to reflect their historic, cultural and political traditions.

The solution reached was that powers would be divided appropriately between the two levels of government, with residual powers going to the federal level. This division of powers has remained an issue in Canadian politics ever since, with federal-provincial

disputes over jurisdiction, and inter-provincial trade being two of the more obvious legacies of Confederation.

There was something even more fundamental about this debate, however. In a political structure headed by a monarchy, where did sovereignty lie? Was the federal government more “sovereign” than the provincial ones? Which was the ultimate decision-making power, and in what areas? Once again, this is a question that has dogged Canadian constitutional developments down to our own day. The challenge for the men who drafted the 92 Resolutions in 1864 was to establish a kind of government and country that had not existed before. Not following the American model completely, not a republic, but a monarchy, and yet still having a completely different structure to that of the Mother Country.

The remarkable thing is that these few men, in just a few weeks in October, 1864, put together the design of a new nation with remarkably little conflict. We don’t know how some of them, men like George Brown and John A. Macdonald, came to accept certain aspects of Confederation, ones which they had vehemently rejected in public before Quebec. We don’t know what other options may have been discussed, what other kinds of Canada they could have brought about.

But, ultimately, between the forming of the Great Coalition in June, and the conclusion of the Quebec Conference near the end of October, Confederation became a practical reality and a new nation was brought into being. All that was needed then was to get the concept passed into law. And this meant a lot more work ahead.

Confederation, as a scheme, may have been ready in October, 1864 but it would face many obstacles on its way to the British North America Act in the summer of 1867.

Greek flag raising in honour of Greek Ambassador’s visit to NG

DeRycke, Pauline Marie (Desrosiers)

March

1, 1933 – June 19, 2023

Passed away suddenly in Kemptville, Ontario on June 19, 2023. Pauline, in her 91st year, beloved wife and best friend of the late Paul DeRycke. Loving mother of Peter (Kim) Oxford Station, Ontario, Pascale (Sam) Oxford Station, Ontario. Stepmother of Michael (Josie) Quebec, Jean (Diane) Quebec. Special Grandma to Bobby (Ana) and Brooke (Katie), Sebastien, Lisa, Jenna, and Marc. Great Grandma to Memphis. Dear sister of Ginette Desrosiers (Gilles), St. Jerome, Quebec, and sister-in-law to the late Dollard and Edith Desmarteau. Born in Albany, Vermont, Pauline moved to Canada at a young age. She worked for CBC as a secretary and then graduated from nursing school in Montreal where she worked in the OR. She changed careers to be an Air Canada airline hostess. After meeting the love of her life, Paul, she moved to Ottawa and finally to Oxford Station in 1968 by his side operating their three hairdressing schools (Sherbrooke, Hull, Quebec City). She established Bolshoy Kennels in 1968 breeding Bouvier Des Flandres dogs for over 30 years. She was an elite breeder and recognized worldwide. Celebration of life will be arranged at a future date. A special thank you to the Kemptville District Hospital and Paramedics for their responsive care given to Pauline. Donations to the Kemptville District Hospital in her name appreciated. Condolences/Tributes/Donations

Hulse, Playfair & McGarry

www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435

Acton, Hattie

After a long life, well and truly lived in service of others, Hattie Acton passed away peacefully on 21 June 2023 in Kemptville, her home for all 98 years. Predeceased by her brothers Charlie, Gerry (Helen), her parents, and her great-niece Natalie, she leaves behind the nephews she adored, Ron (Nancy), David (Jesse), and Barry (Maggi) along with her dear friend Carol who miss her very much, as well as the many others she touched throughout her life in Kemptville. As a lifelong resident of her community, Hattie could not leave the house without seeing someone she knew. Born and raised in Acton’s Corners, Hattie spent most of her working life (31 years) commuting to Ottawa where she worked as a civilian employee for DND. She was accompanied on these daily treks into the city by a carpooling group, many of whom remained her friends for life.

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

From left: The Honourable Eleni Bakopanos, Embassy Counsellor Markos M. Tripolitakis, Her Excellency Konstantina Athanassiadou, Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinary of Greece to Canada, Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan, Merrickville-Wolford Mayor Michael Cameron, Mayor Nancy Peckford, Edwardsburgh Cardinal Deputy Mayor Stephen Dillabough, Councillor Kristin Strackerjan, Councillor Deb Wilson and Deputy Mayor John Barclay.

Send

Epilepsy fundraiser hits close to home

ly starting a ketogenic diet for Raina. Raina is currently on four anti-seizure medications, CBD oil and the keto diet and she still has 6 to 8 seizures on average per day. Raina has low muscle tone (hypotonia) and has no head control at 17 months. She doesn’t feed orally and gets her nutrition through a G-Tube.

Now, the family is raising money for CURE Epilepsy and CHEO to support their daughter and others afflicted with epilepsy. Fundraising has begun and will run until July 16.

Throughout her commuting days she maintained the family home in Kemptville and as her parents grew older, she looked after them until they passed away. She continued her care of many others, both family and friends, on an as needed basis throughout the rest of her life. From providing drives and grocery runs for some, to providing a weekly cache of her famous homemade donuts to those near and far, Hattie was always there to provide a helping hand to those in need. After her retirement, Hattie was a frequent visitor at the local golf course (she became quite good at it) and enjoyed curling and bowling. It was well known that she enjoyed country music and on weekends she was likely to be found somewhere in North Grenville, enjoying one of the many music events available throughout the area. If it was strawberry season, though, she would be in the berry patch, first thing in the morning on opening day to get the best berries which she then shared with anyone who wanted them. The family would like to extend their most sincere thanks to the staffs of Bayfield Manor and Southbridge in Kemptville, whose many kindnesses and expert care extend well beyond the scope of their actual work. The kindness that Hattie extended to others throughout her life was returned ten-fold through their exceptional loving care to her when she needed it most. We are grateful beyond words.

Friends are invited to visit the Kemptville Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 805 Prescott Street, Kemptville on Wednesday June 28, 2023 from 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at the Kemptville Chapel on Thursday June 29, 2023 at 11 am, followed by interment at the Oxford Mills Anglican Cemetery. A reception will follow at the St James Anglican Church. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please consider making a donation to an organization of your choosing that helps people in need.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry

www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435

Oxford Station, and Burritts Rapids. He is aiming to cycle at least 400 km, with sponsors donating a desired amount per kilometre.

hope the NG community will get behind our cause as well.”

An Oxford Mills father is spearheading an epilepsy fundraiser in support of his daughter, and he’s putting his bicycle where his mouth is to raise as much money as possible.

Brian Lafleur’s daugh-

ter Raina started having seizures when she was just four months old. “As firsttime parents, we didn’t know that they were seizures at the time,” Brian told the Times. “After sharing some video with a pediatrician via online video conference, it was suggested that we go to CHEO to figure it out.”

An EEG scan in May of 2022 confirmed that Raina has migrating multifocal seizures, which Brian described as “the most devastating diagnosis we could have imagined.” Over the next few weeks, the family was in and out of the hospital repeatedly, trying different medications and ultimate-

Brian is using his experience as an avid cyclist to support the fundraising effort. In 2021, he rode 357 km in 1,000 minutes as a charity fundraiser. On July 15, beginning at 5am, Brian is going to attempt to ride as far as possible in 17 hours, traveling some of his favourite loops through communities such as Oxford Mills, Merrickville, Kemptville,

Brian is counting on the support of the community with his latest fundraising effort. “North Grenville is where we live, work and play,” he said. “We’ve been a part of this wonderful community since 2018, and have witnessed and participated in some wonderful fundraising initiatives, including a charity spin class at Get Kronk’d for Parkinson Canada. We

Want to help show your support? Those interested can purchase raffle tickets at a Popeyes Supplements location, and can also make a direct donation to the campaign by visiting this link: https:// shorturl.at/rvEHI. To support Raina’s parents with their out of pocket medical expenses, a separate GoFundMe campaign is underway and can be found at https://gofund. me/26f7da4e.

by Brandon Mayer

TRAVEL TALK

Oh Canada! What a beautiful country are thee!

A magical place full of gracious people who love to welcome visitors with open arms. Adventure awaits you at Gros Morne National Park on the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with cliffs, spectacular waterfalls and glacial fjords. Take a trip to the capital city of St. John’s, visit the 17th century Signal Hill Citadel and explore the hillside walking trail.

featuring Scott Waldron and Diane Wilson

Canada, the true north, strong and free. When we think of traveling, our minds often drift to exotic and far away places, but in reality, we have some of the most beautiful vacation destinations right here in our own backyard. Here are our top 6 Canadian destinations.

1. Canadian Rocky Mountains

There is nothing more majestic than seeing the Canadian Rockies up close and personal. How about a family road trip that takes you to Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Panorama or Whistler for a family ski trip?

Want to just relax and take in the scenery? Board the Rocky Mountaineer with its glass domed observation car for the best views and service available! If you’re flying into one of the many airports in British Columbia or Alberta, make sure you book that window seat to get one of the best views ever.

2. Quebec City Stunning architecture and history can be found in this beautiful city that dates back to 1608. Sitting on the Saint Lawrence River, the Château Frontenac Hotel is a must see. Explore the cobblestone streets and visit all the amazing little bistros and boutiques in the Petit Champlain district. During winter, visit the German Christmas Market and the grandiose Ice Hotel with a new theme every year, and February brings the Quebec Winter Carnival to life.

3. Vancouver Island, British Columbia Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a must see when you visit the Island. There is something for everyone to do here, from stunning Butchart Gardens to high tea at the famous Empress Hotel, or for the more adventurous people, a whale watching tour out of the harbour. Explore and discover places like Nanaimo, Coombs and maybe even take a surfing lesson in Tofino.

4. Newfoundland

Letters to the Editor cont'd from page 8

Dear Editor, Regarding Mythunderstandings, Notes from above ground:

How do you know that God is a ‘he’? Does the ‘male’ prevail? Are they superior to the female if God is a ‘he’? I couldn’t imagine to presume what ‘God’ might be. Can anyone, honestly?

The Universe is beyond anything we could ever imagine or understand, so how could we begin to presume what a ‘God’ is or what his/her purpose could be? In ancient histories and mythologies (which are numerous), stories have abounded about ‘virgin’ births and various gods. How do Christians feel so strongly that what they believe is correct?

5. Niagara Falls, Ontario (Toronto)

Only a short drive from Toronto, the view of Niagara Falls is on most people’s bucket list. Visit the Fallsview Casino and see a show, enjoy a fantastic meal, and even try your hands at the slot machines. Niagara-OnThe-Lake is another stop you’ll want to make – this city offers quaint restaurants, boutiques, outstanding wineries and a must see yearround Christmas shop with fantastic gift options.

6. Churchill, Manitoba

It’s time to visit the Great White North and take in fascinating photographic opportunities capturing the Northern lights, bird watching, and maybe even get a close up shot of polar bears during a guided Polar Bear excursion. Memories that will last a lifetime!

Ready to explore our beautiful country? Go to www.gravitate.travel and click on the Let’s Talk icon on the top righthand side.

TICO # 50026003 709 RIDEAU STREET, UNIT 2 / KEMPTVILLE, ON K0G1J0

Tid bit musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW

Canada Day seems to coincide with "Every child Matters" attention. Canada Day was designated to celebrate the coming of a nation in the New World. True enough, atrocities that occurred/still occur are not synonymous with celebrations that exonerate wrong doing, but

If anyone can imagine what ‘God’ could be or is, please let me know, because this is beyond anything I could ever imagine. I’m not saying that there is no purpose but I can’t comprehend or pretend to know what it is. I also cannot believe that the “Universe’ is accidental. The force of gravity, the positioning of the planets, our position from the sun, if not so perfectly placed, we would either freeze or burn up. But I can’t believe that Christianity alone is the answer. Other religions have significant merit also.

K. Piché

Dear Editor, Congrats to Merrickville Council and Enbridge Gas for agreeing to further explore the possibility of bringing clean, affordable and economical solutions to heating our homes and fuelling our vehicles. It affords us the time to pursue alternative sciences much to the chagrin, I am sure, of people like Steve Gabell who often uses this space to express his partisan views as the spokesman for Green Party of Canada. He should be required to pay for his partisan views. Instead of running around like his hair is on fire, he should realize that he is suggesting that we should all immediately switch to alternatives that are not practical and in fact

do not yet exist.

Alan Sadowski

Dear Editor,

My municipal taxes have taken a significant jump upwards. At least two people have told me likewise, theirs too.

What do we get in return? More infrastructure, more traffic (awful), more congestion. And the taxes will never decrease. They have only one way to go for all of this, definitely up.

But who benefits?

Certainly most developers. Good on them. And of course all of the utility companies. Good on them. Also, I think some politicians will do very well.

K. Piché

the day was meant to simply celebrate the formation of a country. Truth and reconciliation policies can be simplified to "Be kind and no repeating of mistakes." Collectively and individually we have done wrong, but we also have done a lot of positive things. Of equal focus is Black Lives matter, police lives matter, veterans, etc, and the bottom line reality is YOU matter. As they say "don't throw out the baby with the bath water."

Throughout history, someone, somewhere, somehow has committed unthinkable acts against others under a banner of authoritative power. The concentration camps were severe and fatal to so many just because they were Jews and Hitler said.... The residential schools orchestrated by the Catholic Church had bad apples who behaved wrongfully but that doesn't mean that all Catholics are evil, nor is religion evil when there is freedom of choice. Teachers who insisted that a child be right-handed believed it was best for the learning process but today, experts know the difference. The schema is to evaluate events in retrospect and NOT repeat the wrong doing. If the action happened, that comprises history and can't be renounced by simply

overlooking the issue. LEARNING is part of our experience but doesn't have to incorporate repeated behaviour. Many of the young English, Irish and Scottish children farmed out under deplorable conditions here in Eastern Ontario and Quebec also suffered death and mistreatment. Historically in a time of famines, weather hardships, diseases and a lack of medical care, many met an untimely end. Visit a cemetery and you will note the young ages recorded. Basically everyone matters. Discrimination and segregation under the guise of compliance is not tolerated. Accountability is foremost. Are your hands, thoughts and feelings honourable? How far did the pendulum swing?

Considering YOU matter, do you know to whom you matter? In suicide prevention strategies, one is encouraged to reflect/connect on someone important to the person. In mental health wellness checklists, the requirement is to identify who matters to you. The ache is when you don't feel you matter to anyone. Take the time today to tell someone they matter to you. Then lead by example!

Tony Returns!

Birds of Prey Show

July 2nd 11:00, 1:00 & 3:00

Community buys back its favourite horse

by Brandon Mayer

Not all stories have happy endings, but North Dundas residents can now safely beam with pride after a successful campaign to buy back the beloved “Horse Tony” statue that sat at the corner of County Roads 43 and 3 for decades.

On June 15, the Times reported that Horse Tony had been sold in anticipation of the sale of Shirley Fawcett’s home, where the statue had resided since it was purchased by the late Roy Fawcett, Shirley’s husband. It didn’t take long for the North Dundas community to make it very clear just how important Tony was as a symbol of local history and pride.

Resident Janet Smith then took the initiative on a campaign that many North Dundas locals were likely hoping would get underway. She set forth with a public effort to buy back the horse, after a local veterinary clinic – Dundas Veterinary Services – offered a permanent home for the statue on their property alongside County Road 31.

In a move that can be relatively rare for small com-

Ferguson Forest Arboretum

$5 suggested donation

Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre

Baldwin's Birds

that we have actually got a family of them, for most of those wrestling for positions were pretty immature looking as are most at that age! Having two peanut feeders, we quite often see a couple of them feeding, with one on each. Our Woodpecker visitors often do the same thing too and it never seems to cause any undue conflict between them.

munities, the CBC picked up the Horse Tony story, a sure sign of the community’s “loud and proud” love of their treasured landmark.

The CBC reveals that the horse was sold to “local veterinarian Will Armstrong”. Their coverage indicated that he is not interested in speaking to reporters.

Tony was reportedly sold for just $500, and then subsequently went back on the market for $2,000 when news of the community hype began to spread. With an allowance for shipping and restoration costs, Janet set a fundraising goal of $3,000 to be able to “bring Tony home”, so to speak.

The first week of the campaign resulted in donations, but not the kind of donations that were needed to get the funds raised in time. The community was generous – particularly considering that the fundraising campaign is in support of a symbolic ornament – but not quite to the extent needed. After the CBC story was released, this changed with a single massive donation of $2,186 that put the fundraising exactly where it needed to be. The large donation was made anonymously.

“We went today and paid for Tony,” Janet told the Times on June 21. “We did a 'once over' of Tony to see

what needs to be done and to grab measurements. He needs ear repair, new paint, a new concrete base, and weather sealant.”

The campaign for Tony was an overwhelmingly positive one. “I have received hundreds of messages of support,” added Janet. “I am ever so thankful to everyone who messaged, donated, helped, or are volunteering to help.”

Tony has been a symbol for North Dundas residents since 1988, before North Dundas was actually amalgamated as a Township. He will be sure to get visitors at his new home at Dundas Veterinary Services for decades more to come.

A Stunning Event

The other day my wife heard an ominous "thump" by our back patio door and, on investigation, came across a "window strike" victim in the form of a House Wren! We were very perturbed, especially as the Wrens are using our nesting boxes to raise their young and we regard them almost as family! Regardless of our sentiments, we had to decide what we should do for it and, after due consideration, we opted for a wait and see policy with no more stress being imposed on it, i.e. do not open the door to get a closer look! I sat on a chair and kept an eye on it for its recovery duration and was able to get some close up pictures of it too. Fortunately, we didn't have to wait long before the poor little bird started to show signs of "perking up". Within half an hour, it seemed to have regained its composure, took off in flight, cleared our patio fence and disappeared into the back garden. We have since heard singing and witnessed more action in one of our nesting boxes, so we hope that it is our Wren

which has fully recovered from its "stunning" event!

How many White Breasted Nuthatches have you seen at once recently?

Well! I had the privilege of seeing five at once around my hanging feeders at the front of the house the other day! I had just got into my car and happened to look up in the feeder direction, when I saw three of them trying to get onto one of my peanut feeders, whilst another was on a nearby wooden trellis and another actually clung to the brickwork! Of course, no camera to hand, so no proof to show you! It would seem

The Nijer seed feeder is always kept busy with the Goldfinches and House Finches cohabitating amiably, along with a Chipping Sparrow who will come along by itself and sit there later in the evening on the bottom rung, when all the others have given up for the day and gone to roost! It will regularly appear by itself and has become quite a good friend, if just appearing regularly constitutes a friendship! Maybe you too have struck up endearing friendships with your own bird clans, in which case I hope you are enjoying it too. Stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

Ontario investing an additional $3.4 million in local health care

Jonsson’s Your Independent Grocer wins Gold-Creative

Foodland Retailer’s Award

Province’s economy. Our retailers put fresh Ontario produce into the hands of our community members, and for that, we’re very appreciative.”

The annual Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards celebrate excellence in retail display and promotion in support of local Ontario foods.

Quick Facts

The Ontario government is investing an additional $3,435,400 in 2023-24 to ensure stable and sustainable hospital operations across Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. This includes a $2,726,200 investment in Brockville General Hospital, along with a $709,200 investment in Kemptville District Hospital ($347,900 of which is allocated from the Small and Northern Hospital Stabilization Fund).

“This welcome funding demonstrates our government’s commitment to the health and security of people living in Leeds and Grenville,” said Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-GrenvilleThousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. “We continue to provide historic levels of support for health care services and are working hard to ensure our hospitals have the staff and funding they need to deliver the services residents expect and deserve.”

The Ontario government is investing $850 million across the Province in 202324 to ensure stable and sustainable hospital operations. All public hospitals, regardless of size or type, will receive funding increases to maintain base operations, ensuring Ontarians will be able to easily connect to high-quality care, regardless of where they live.

“Both the Brockville General Hospital and Kemptville District Hospital are part of the lifeblood of our communities,” said Nancy Peckford, Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and Mayor of

North Grenville. “They play invaluable roles in maintaining the quality of life of our residents in the region. We are fortunate to have fabulously talented staff who are committed to highquality care. The additional operational dollars from the Government of Ontario are crucial to the long-term future of both hospitals.”

“Brockville General Hospital and its dedicated team are steadfast in their commitment to providing quality health care for our community,” said Matt Wren, Mayor of Brockville.

“We applaud this additional investment from the Province which greatly helps our community hospital in its mission.”

In recognition of the unique challenges faced by small and northern hospitals in the Province, the government is making an additional one-time investment of $22 million to establish a Small and Northern Hospital Stabilization Fund. This fund will support ongoing efforts to build a strong and resilient health system by easing pressures faced by small and northern hospitals, including Kemptville District Hospital.

“Thank you to the Province of Ontario, Ontario Health, Ministry of Health and MPP Steve Clark for your continued investment in Brockville General and for recognizing the growing financial pressures felt by Ontario hospitals,” said Nick Vlacholias, President and CEO of Brockville General Hospital. “Beyond supporting our growing hospital, this $2,726,200 investment will allow us to deliver more surgical procedures, invest

in nursing and further support hospital programs that our community has come to rely on. Our friends, family and neighbours expect highquality health care. This investment ensures Brockville General continues to play a vital role in the community’s health and well being.”

“Kemptville District Hospital is grateful for both the base budget adjustment of $361,300 and the one time Small and Northern Hospital Stabilization Funding of $347,900,” said Frank Vassalo, CEO of Kemptville District Hospital. “This funding is welcome as we are experiencing extraordinary financial pressures due to the lingering impacts of COVID-19, inflation and other mounting costs. I have been CEO at Kemptville District Hospital for eight years and throughout my tenure, as well as prior to it, MPP Steve Clark has been a tireless advocate for and supporter of Kemptville District Hospital and the communities we serve.”

submitted by MPP Steve Clark

On June 19, Steve Clark, MPP for LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, recognized Jarrod Duncan of Jonsson’s Your Independent Grocer of Kemptville with a Gold-Creative award for creativity in building produce displays that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to Ontario’s local food industry.

“Jarrod Duncan’s produce displays highlight some of the best that Ontario’s food retail sector has to offer,” said MPP Clark. “The hard work of grocers like those at Jonsson’s support hardworking farmers and our vital agriculture and agri-food sectors.”

For more than 35 years, the Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards have been celebrating the creative expression of produce managers and staff for their unique and innovative displays that promote

locally grown food. This program runs between January and November and includes four categories of displays that retailers can enter to showcase their efforts to promote in-season, Ontario grown fruits and vegetables.

“Congratulations to this year’s winners, and to everyone who sent in a submission. Your efforts encourage shoppers to choose fresh Ontario produce that is grown right here at home” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Buying local supports our farmers, local food businesses across our food supply chain, helps strengthen our communities, and boosts the

- This year, Foodland Ontario Retailer Awards are recognizing 61 grocery stores across the Province for their innovative promotion of fresh Ontario food. For a list of the 2022 Retailer Award winners, visit Foodland Ontario’s website.

- Ontario has one of the most diverse agrifood industries in Canada, producing more than 200 commodities, such as asparagus, berries, tender fruit, apples, greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers.

- For more than 45 years, Foodland Ontario has connected with families on how to recognize, prepare and enjoy locally grown foods.

- To know when all your local fruits and vegetables are in season, visit Foodland Ontario’s Availability Guide.

submitted by MPP Steve Clark

Buyi y ng o Selling a H Buying or Selling a H y g g oome? me?

Lisa Deschambault Realtor ® 613-282-8934 I www thelisateam ca lisamd@royallepage.ca I 139 Prescott St. Kemptville

The Weather with Connor

a long time (don’t worry, it’s actually a nice motel, not a creepy middle of nowhere motel).

featuring Connor Mockett

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to another week of The Weather with Connor. This week, I’d like to talk about what I’m currently getting ready to do: travel across the country to the Canadian Prairies to chase storms! That’s right, I’m taking a 2 week vacation to chase storms in Western Canada during their peak season, and I’m taking my lovely girlfriend (who has never once been out west) with me.

We’ll be leaving on Saturday, June 24th, at 6:00 am. Day 1 of travel will be a 15.5 hour day, driving from Winchester all the way to Nipigon, where we’ll be staying at a really nice motel that I’ve wanted to try out for

On the morning of Day 2, it’ll also be a 6:00 am start. After a quick stop at Timmies for breakfast, we’ll start to make our way towards the Prairies for what will be another long day in the car. Barring any changes to the schedule, if we’re chasing in Manitoba, the plan is to stop at a nice new hotel in the Town of Grenfell, Saskatchewan.

After Day 2, I have no idea where I’m staying! That might sound crazy, but it’s the truth. After we get into the Prairies, if there’s even a slight chance for a storm in either Manitoba, Saskatchewan, or Alberta, that’s where we’ll be, and we’ll then figure out somewhere to stay after said chase ends. If we’re not chasing, the plan is to make our way to Cochrane or Airdrie, Alberta, which is usually my destination when I drive out there.

While in Alberta, I plan

to take my wonderful woman into the mountains. We’ll be checking out the incredible Lake Louise, which is totally amazing every time you lay eyes on it. I’m going to try to get us to Moraine Lake, because I’ve never been to that lake and I would really like to see its beauty as well. We’ll go into Banff while over there too, and also check out one of the most famous railfanning (train photography) spots in the world, which is Morant’s Curve just north of Lake Louise. Yes, I do love trains as well, it’s my secondary photography hobby.

This year, I’m really hopeful to see the thing that has escaped me the past two seasons in the Prairies, which is a tornado. That’s the main goal of this trip, seeing a tornado. Really though, I’m just happy to see a storm, mostly because there have been next to zero storms in Eastern Ontario this season so far, in what’s been the quietest season I’ve ever seen in my life here.

I always see storms out

in the Prairies every year, and there are always storms that end up being in my yearly wall calendars. I, and my girlfriend Zoé, are extremely excited to hit the road and see what this year has in store for us. I’m excited for my girl to experience the Rockies and see some real storms.

We’ll be gone from home for 17-18 days, so we’ll get back on the 10th or 11th of July. I promise to have many stories to tell from this trip, which I’ll get to tell in my columns. I’ll talk to all of you in a couple of weeks! Thanks for reading.

Antiques roadshow

The North Grenville Historical Society hosted its very own antiques roadshow on Saturday June 3rd at the History Hub, 148 Prescott Street, in Old Town Kemptville. On hand from Dark Horse Appraisals was Susan Andrews CPPA, a professional personal property appraiser. Among the interesting finds were a late 1800s Canadian Ensign flag, an antique radio, early 20th century Japanese prints, and an 1897 sterling silver inkwell set from Wales.

The North Grenville Historical Society anticipates further similar sessions in the future and is grateful that Susan Andrews has agreed to conduct these free for members.