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Get ready for the Annual Jumpstart Fundraiser
by Brandon Mayer
Next week will see the return of a popular and important fundraiser in downtown Kemptville. On Thursday, July 25, from 11:30am – 1pm, Royal Lepage Team Realty will host their Annual Jumpstart Fundraiser on the patio of their office at 139 Prescott Street.
On the menu for lunch will be award-winning pulled pork sliders, served up by Pistol Packin’ Piggies, as well as cold drinks. In a conversation with the Times, Judy Littau from Royal Lepage Team Realty was eager to thank the “great community sponsors” of the fundraising event, including B&H Your Community Grocer, Grahame’s
Bakery, Catered Affairs, and, of course, the entire team at Royal Lepage.
What happens if it rains? Not to worry! A tent will be set up for this rain-or-shine gathering. This annual BBQfundraiser was a regular event prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was cancelled during the pandemic due to infection control concerns, but this will be its third year since Royal Lepage moved into its location in downtown Kemptville.
Why fundraise for Jumpstart? Because there is, perhaps, no better way to help local kids! “We like doing this Jumpstart fundraiser because Canadian Tire matches it dollar for dollar,” said Judy. “The money all stays
within North Grenville. Our agents like giving where they live. We’re all local agents and we like supporting locally.”
Jumpstart is a Canadian Tire fundraising organization that helps less fortunate families enroll their children in organized sports and activities. It can help with fees and equipment, as needed. “Jumpstart is a good service because it provides opportunities for families who might not otherwise afford it so that kids can participate in any of the activities in town the same as their neighbours, classmates, and friends do”, Judy added. “No child should ever be left out of the opportunity to do a sport or an activity.”
The fundraiser has a proven track record, with the amount of money raised increasing with each passing year. Canadian Tire matches all of the funds raised. Including these matched funds, the BBQ brought in about $3,300 for Jumpstart last year.
The program's motto is, “Support a Kid, Support a Community”. Judy adds that the BBQ is “always a good time, and a good opportunity to catch up with friends”. And what better way could there be to raise money for kids than enjoying an award winning pulled pork sandwich? Bring your friends and your appetite to 139 Prescott Street on July 25!
Young local hockey player drafted by the Edmonton Oilers
by Brandon Mayer
Local hockey player William Nicholl was given an unwavering testament to his athletic prowess last week when he was drafted 196th overall by the NHL hockey team, the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers have just recently competed in the Stanley Cup playoffs, taking the fight all the way to game 7, where they ultimately lost against the Florida Panthers.
So who is William Nicholl? He is an 18 year old whose family hails from nearby Manotick, with an extra tie to the local area given that his parents are teachers at St. Michael Catholic High School in Kemptville. The school made a social media post after the draft announcement that was filled with both humour and joy.
William’s stats can be found all over the internet, including on the NHL website. The following profile can be found on EliteProspects.com:
“Nicholl is a forward who shows unrelenting pace, textbook details, and flashes of high-level offence. He wins body positioning on everyone in every situation: Net front, along the boards, on the backcheck, on random opponents in open ice. His physical skills enable him to beat defenders off the wall, get inside, and fire off chances.”
Congratulations, William!
THOMAS M. BYRNE
U11 Kemptville Wildcats softball team takes 1st place
by Sara German
After a season that was mainly focussed on learning the game of softball, the girls of the U11 Kemptville Wildcats won first place at the U11 Rural Ottawa Softball 2024 in Winchester on July 7. Coaches Sean Richmire and Erin Coyle created a positive environment all season for the girls to learn the game of softball and continuously improve their skills.
The Kemptville Wildcats lost their first game of the tournament on the evening of July 4 to Kenmore. On Saturday, the Wildcats had an early 8am start and pulled off a win against Rideau Osgoode Minor Softball Association. They played ROMSA again later that day in the quarter finals and completed a second win to advance to the semifinals.
The girls cooled off in
the Winchester outdoor pool and then headed into their third game of the day, where they met Kenmore for the second time in the tournament in the semifinals. Despite the loss on Thursday night, they rallied to a 13-3 win over Kenmore. Sunday proved to be another hot day in Winchester. The final game was delayed as the 3rd place game went into extra innings. The Wildcats
were set to play first place Winchester Sox. The game was close throughout, though Kemptville trailed often. In the bottom of the final innings, Kemptville was down 11-7. But they got an early run, before Saige Douglas hit a grand slam to bring in four more runs. Kemptville finished 1211 over the Sox.
Kemptville had spectacular pitching throughout the tournament from Ellisyn Warr, Madeleine Lockhart, Ali Conlin, Blake Ross, Avery Burrill and Delilah Winnicki.
Congratulations to the girls on winning first place in U11 Rural Ottawa Softball 2024 and a fantastic season!
William Nicholl has been picked in the NHL draft by the Edmonton Oilers.
The heart of the matter
by David Shanahan
Two events that took place recently have brought attention back to the issue of Canada’s relationship with the Indigenous peoples of this land. The Assembly of First Nations held their annual conference in Montreal, and they were addressed by Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Opposition and presumed next Prime Minister of Canada. It wasn’t an altogether successful appearance. Some delegates stood and turned their backs on him while he spoke, while others contented themselves with either walking out, or booing. For Indigenous people, these were out of character and showed the depth of hostility which exists, not only towards Poilievre, but the Conservative Party generally.
Memories are fresh about the way Stephen Harper’s regime treated Indigenous issues, and the ongoing lack of respect shown to the First Nations. Yes, after researchers compiled damaging evidence of Canada’s treatment of Indigenous peoples, particularly concerning Indian Residential Schools [IRS], Harper did formally apologise in the House of Commons. But then, weeks later,
he cut all federal funding for those same research offices by more than 70% - both a punishment and an attempt to ensure they never found anything damaging again. On that level, he failed completely.
Following the apology, Poilievre went public with a statement that he questioned the value of compensating residential school survivors, instead of pushing the values of "hard work and independence." This did not go down well in Indigenous communities, where the reality of the IRS effects are only too real.
Poilievre’s promise to the AFN conference that he and his Party "believe that economic reconciliation is part of social progress. We need jobs and opportunity for First Nations communities", sounded fine, but one wonders what is meant by "economic reconciliation": does it mean investment in Indigenous communities, or simply throwing money to people with no actual economic development opportunities because of the location and character of the land on which they were deposited in decades gone by. The record does not inspire confidence.
The other event with
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important implications for Indigenous relations with the wider Canadian society was the release of an interim report by Kimberly Murray, Independent Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools. It was a damning indictment of government handling of IRS institutions over more than a century, complete with concrete evidence of serious and sustained neglect, and worse, of Indigenous children attending such schools. There is much to say about this issue and Ms. Murray’s report, but it deserves time and analysis before discussing it in detail. This is especially so because of the way in which the report has been presented in the media.
As with the controversy which arose with the claims of unmarked graves at Kamloops and other IRS sites, more heat than light was shed on the subject by media and government at the time. There was a rush by governments at all levels to
take actions in response, or at least to look like they were acting. Much of what came about was a series of rather empty and purely symbolic events, lacking any genuine depth or awareness of what the gestures really meant. It seemed they grew out of a panic-stricken guilt rather than a true awareness of history and reality.
History is never that simple, never as clear-cut as we’d like it to be. Treating all IRS institutions as part of a monolithic conspiracy which involved every government since the 1880's (and before), every religious order involved in operating the schools, every teacher, staff member and bureaucrat in the Indian Department, does a disservice to both history and the survivors of the schools. Because, given public antipathy in many cases, a general ignorance of Indigenous history, and a reaction against the attacks and guilt provoked by the media response, there is bound to be a reaction, a backlash. And if there’s any inaccuracies in reporting
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor,
Along with friends, I spent Canada Day under the canopy of trees at Maplewood Park in Oxford Mills. What a beautiful way to celebrate the 157th birthday of our country: The Lion’s Club BBQ, cupcakes supplied by Grahame’s Bakery, and all the other wonderful food made available by local vendors.
However, I am sorry to complain, but where oh where was the singing of “O Canada”? The flag was raised as our Mayor and Council and the many people attending stood at attention – and the pipe band played “God Save the King” – but we never sang “O Canada”. The country we were there to celebrate! Our national anthem!
I approached one of the pipers after the ceremony and asked “why?” I was told that “O Canada” was too difficult to play on the pipes! If that is so, then why didn’t we SING it?
Mary McVey
Dear Editor,
I see that a response to my recent letter regarding selling beer and wine in corner stores has been labelled as being “non-partisan.” Interesting how people feel
the facts, any exaggeration or false claim, it will only feed into that backlash and damage the genuine cause of truth and reconciliation.
We all, Indigenous and Settler, owe it to the past, the children, the survivors, and ourselves, to ensure that we get this right, that there are no politically motivated claims that cannot be substantiated. I have worked for Indigenous communities and organisations for over thirty-five years, and I know how Canada’s treatment of Indigenous peoples is as horrific as that of the United States regarding slavery and civil rights. It is our own national disgrace. But we
it necessary to pigeon-hole others, thinking that I write what I write because of my political affiliations. Not so. I have been accused, however, of having an overdeveloped sense of fair play. Yeah, maybe.
The response is basically around a report written by an independent consultant. My first question is “so who paid for that report”? My personal experience is that some consultants will occasionally write a report that is favourable to those who paid them, so just because somebody is “independent”, it doesn’t necessarily mean that their information is unbiased.
Let’s address the benefits listed. As many as 7,500 new jobs, but for whom? Sure, the trucking industry will now have more places to deliver to, but using the figure quoted of as much as $186 million in wages, the average annual wage works out to $24,800, which is not a trucker’s wage, and is less than minimum wage of $16.55 per hour or $34,424 per year. Not exactly a well-paying job. Also, has this consultant also considered how many jobs will be lost inside the LCBO, because that is what the strike is all about? Tax
can’t undermine the reality by rushing into making statements and using words that cannot be supported by the facts.
I’ve said this many times, but it deserves repeating: there can be no Reconciliation without Truth; and the truth in this case, is bad enough. Canadians need to know their history, so do Indigenous people; we cannot assume we know it, we have to do the hard work, face the unpalatable facts, and deal with the reality. That is our responsibility to all those who have suffered.
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revenue is expected to rise, but does this come from an anticipated increase in alcohol consumption? Not sure how I feel about that, and lastly, there is also a cost to business owners mentioned, assuming that they can, and want to, afford it.
The writer seems to think that it is okay to throw away $225 million of taxpayer money because we were getting more back. I don’t buy that. Money shouldn’t be wasted on a political whim. The cynic in me says that this is all about an early election, where the Ford government is trying to outrun the RCMP corruption investigation.
This seems to be nothing more than a brazen attempt to garner votes by showing that this government is for the working man, when you just have to scratch the surface to prove the exact opposite. This move could have been done at the end of the current Beer Store contract and save the taxpayer $225 million, but then, the RCMP might be ready with their report by then.
Colin Creasey Kemptville
Dear Editor,
Again from the book “Barbara” by Barbara Streisand:
“Your genetic make-up is 99 percent identical to that of every person on the face of the Earth.”
“As Trump lurched through his presidency, leaving chaos in his wake, I would lie in bed at night with his latest outrage running through my mind. It was shocking to watch him trash fundamental democratic principles like freedom of speech, and freedom of the press. He demolished our standing in the world and put the security of our country, and our planet, at risk by abandoning the Paris climate accords and the Iran nuclear deal. He was a one-man weapon of mass destruction.”
“A majority of Americans also support gun safety legislation. The court has now made it more difficult for states to enact laws to protect their own citizens, and they’re trying to cripple the Environmental Protection Agency as well. Have they been bought by the corporations that are reaping profits from selling guns, polluting our waters, and promoting fossil fuels? cont'd on page 4
The benefits of an accessible urban forest in North Grenville
by Heather Popazzi
What if North Grenville transformed the 13 acres of municipal land next to County Road 43, identified as underused in the Ferguson Forest Centre Land Disposition, into an accessible urban forest? Imagine the benefits: green spaces for the community, promoting biodiversity, and creating a haven for residents to enjoy nature. The financial and social benefits of an urban forest – such as increased property values, improved mental health, and a stronger sense of community –far outweigh the gains from development. Turning this vision into reality is crucial, because, if sold to developers, this valuable land is gone forever.
Urban reforestation is more than a beautification project; it's smart financial investing. Trees of-
Temperatures are soaring, glaciers are melting, seas are rising, fires are raging. We have disrupted the exquisite balance of nature in our reckless pursuit of the blessed buck, with no concern for future generations or the life of the planet itself. People no longer seem to be able to distinguish between truth and lies… or even care about the difference.”
Barbara Streisand is of course an American, but we all share ‘North American’ as Canadians. What we do affects each other, and we as humans all share this planet with the animals and ‘mother’ Earth.
K Piché
Dear Editor,
Back to the whole thing about a “correctional centre” or jail on our outskirts:
I first heard on the news this morning about “lockdowns” in these places, and that they can go on for days or weeks due to staff shortage!
They said inmates cannot leave their cells at all during this. What kind of mental HELL would this be? I can’t even imagine. Surely, somehow we can do better than this.
Kath Piché
Dear Editor,
I am glad to have stimulated some discussion on heat pumps and would like to take the opportunity to address some of the points raised by Mr. Eastwood and Mr. Thriscutt in their letters. I was using information
fer tangible benefits, like shade, reduced energy costs, improved air quality, and effective stormwater management. Studies show that every dollar invested in urban trees yields two to five times its value in benefits, from lowered energy bills to increased property values. The economic impact of this initiative for North Grenville is profound.
An accessible urban forest along County Road 43 promotes inclusivity. With accessible paths linked to a new multi-use path, it ensures everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy nature. This isn't just about green spaces; it's about fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and valued.
Urban forests offer significant health benefits. They reduce air pollution, lowering rates of asthma and other
provided by 350 Canada and the journalist/writer Seth Klein, so my comment about refrigerants may have been inaccurate, though I have read of work on developing a heat pump that does not use a refrigerant gas system to transfer heat.
Mr. Thriscutt raises concerns about the need for supplementary heating. There are air source heat pumps designed specifically for cold climates which are rated for operation at temperatures as low as -30c (for example, as discussed on CBC at http:// bit.ly/4eWs9mn). Although -30c feels cold to us, that air still contains over 80% of the energy that it does at 20c, and air source heat pumps are able to exploit this. Ground source heat pumps are also an option, though they are more expensive and require more complex installation, but they are popular in Sweden. Installing a heat pump should be done in conjunction with ensuring adequate insulation to reduce heating and cooling requirements. If supplementary heating is required, there are a number of options available which do not require a fossil-fuel based furnace.
Steve Gabell
Dear Editor,
While I disagree with Dr. Gifford-Jones on a number of things (not least his enthusiasm for vitamin C), I do agree that many seniors are taking medicines that may be doing more harm than
respiratory conditions. Trees also help mitigate urban heat island effects, making cities cooler and more comfortable during hot weather. Urban forests reduce stress levels and improve mental health, providing a natural remedy to modern life pressures.
Using these 13 acres for reforestation will enhance the Ferguson Forest Corporation's bare-root agricultural production located behind this land. Urban forests improve soil structure and organic matter, supporting healthier tree crops. They act as windbreaks, protecting agricultural trees from damage, and aid in water regulation, enhancing infiltration and reducing runoff, ensuring consistent soil moisture levels crucial for successful cultivation. Conversely, converting this land for housing development will disrupt bare-root
good. This is particularly true for the most elderly in society – what is good and appropriate treatment at 70 may not be so at 90. Unfortunately, many medical studies exclude people over certain ages or those with multiple medical conditions, so there is not a good evidence base to guide prescribing and deprescribing in the elderly.
Many commonly used medicines have potential side effects that become more troublesome or potentially dangerous as we get older. Side effects like dizziness can cause a fall which can have life changing consequences in the elderly.
Stopping medicines in the elderly is a challenging endeavour, and there can be a reluctance to change something that does not seem to be causing any issues, even when someone has a life-limiting diagnosis. It is always worthwhile asking questions about risks and benefits of medicines as your age changes, though of course medicines should not be stopped without discussion with your healthcare team (ideally both a pharmacist and physician should be involved).
I highly recommend the book "Being Mortal" by Dr. Atul Gawande. It is a thorough discussion of the issues facing people as they get older or are faced with a life-limiting diagnosis, and discusses what can be done to help improve quality of life. I greatly appreciated the insights from it when I was
production, increase runoff and pollution, and lead to more human interference.
North Grenville's older population is rising, with seniors projected to increase from 18% in 2020 to 23% by 2030. This demographic will need more accessible outdoor spaces for recreation. An accessible urban forest will cater to these needs, providing a safe environment for walking.
Our community has a proud tradition of promoting active lifestyles. Recognized as Canada’s Most Active Community in 2021 and Ontario’s Most Active Community in 2022/23 by the ParticipACTION Community Better Challenge, North Grenville has a strong commitment to health and well-being. An urban forest would further this effort by expanding park space to areas east, west, and north
working as a pharmacist in palliative care.
Steve Gabell, pharmacist Kemptville
Dear Editor,
As I write this letter, the LCBO strike is a week along, and at this juncture my sympathies are with the little person in this labour dispute. One cannot examine this strike without considering Premier Ford and his government.
In previous campaigns, Ford committed his party to making the sale of alcohol more convenient – not a key plank of the government – but with the right determination, an achievable goal. What stands in the government's way are the lives of some LCBO employees who have worked long and hard to earn some seniority and employment security.
The government is about to pay a penalty to The Beer Store for cancelling the contract that existed between them. Should there not be a ‘buyout’ for LCBO employees who will see their work hours and pay affected by the shift to other retail outlets?
What is particularly galling about the government's – specifically Doug Ford’s – involvement, is the advertisement in which he promoted a map to help people locate retail alcohol outlets during the strike. This act of rubbing salt into the wounds of the striking workers shows no sense of compassion or leadership.
During the last provin-
of County Road 43.
Partnerships with local schools can provide forestryrelated education for children. Imagine every child in our schools having the chance to plant and care for their own tree sapling. This urban forest can serve as an outdoor classroom, where students can learn about ecology and conservation. These programs enhance students’ understanding of the environment and foster a sense of stewardship for their natural surroundings.
Transforming these 13 acres into an accessible urban forest holds significant tourism potential. Drawing visitors from Highway 416, this project provides easy access to attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Burritt’s Rapids and the charming town of Merrickville. The influx of eco-tourists would enhance
cial election, few people paid much attention to what was at stake and, as a result, we have a bully for a premier. I hope the electorate are paying closer attention to this government’s lack of integrity and public purpose.
Marc Nadeau Oxford Mills
Dear Editor, David Shanahan – your editorial on the death of democracy, “Not dark yet” was bang on.
Trump and his tone and
North Grenville's appeal and stimulate local businesses as visitors explore our area. Eco-tourism significantly boosts local economies.
This isn't just about preserving land; it's about investing in our future. Grants and funding opportunities abound for projects like this, removing financial barriers. Development doesn't lower property taxes. Urban reforestation offers a better way forward by investing in sustainable solutions.
Transforming these 13 acres into an accessible urban forest isn't just a choice – it's a responsibility. It's about showing the world what smart, sustainable development looks like.
lies, the acceptance of cultural attitudes both violent and oppressive, access to media that in truth is not meant as anything more than entertainment for ratings –these have come together to create a culture that listens but does not hear, watches but does not see. It is frightening to see the wide divide that has come on so quickly in democratic countries around the world. Ian G.
NORTH GRENVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Thanks
aov surveyors kemptville, axiom team realty, b&H grocery alarmed, bia old town kemptville, body & sole, brewed awakenings, bridgadoon restaurant, brooks and cryderman, thomas byrne, catered affairs, coba studios & print house, compass Accounting, co-operators insurance, mark sims desjardins insurance (b Sponsor), eastern memorials, egis engineering, grahame's bakery, jm automotive, kemptville windows & kitchens, kirby-masson insurance, connie lamble, laurier optical, lockwood brothers construction, bruce & sandra macrae, manderley turf products (bronze sponsor), kyle miller mortgage brokers ottawa, mortimer kostiouchenko & patel (silver sponsor), myers kemptville gm, north grenville times, o'farrell financial (silver sponsor), oxford village, peartree property management, justin rice insurance (silver sponsor), samantha rivet-stevenson & ryan nugent rbc, rb heating, rekmans automotive, rpm automotive, salamanders restaurant, sustainable success, taylor burke realty team (silver sponsor), vincent spagarage.
to our generous sponsors ! , bee (bronze patel (silver sponsor), myers kemptville gm, north grenville times, vincent
our support will be used to help fund initiatives at both the society's archives and at the history hub. it will help us to preserve our historical records and artifacts and to offer educational programmes that promote the unique heritage of our community.
4th Merrickville Festival of the Arts, July 27-28, in Blockhouse Park
The Merrickville Organization for Culture & the Arts (MOCA) is organizing the 4th Merrickville Festival of the Arts on July 27th and 28th. We are pleased to collaborate with the Merrickville Arts Guild (MAG) and Theatre Night in Merrickville (TNIM) in the production of this annual event. We have a full line-up of wonderful music featuring local and nearby musicians. In addition, we are delighted to partner with The Pews to host a free night concert in the United Church starting at 7:00 PM by the very popular Tripoly and the Grenville Troubadours. Voluntary dona-
tions to The Pews are gratefully appreciated and can be made at the door. There will be a bar service on-site. This year we will also feature activities for children in collaboration with the Merrickville Day Nursery School and l'École élémentaire catholique Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys. TNIM will be presenting a play written by Peter Paylor and directed by Peyton Horning titled, "A Generous Gift”. You may notice a group of Urban Sketchers going throughout the Village to record their perspective of our unique architecture and Village life. Their sketches will be on display in the
Blockhouse Park near where MAG artists will be featuring their creative work. Some of you might be aware that there is a movement afoot to honor one of Merrickville’s most interesting and accomplished historical characters – Harry F. McLean – by creating a life sized statue. The Festival is featuring a story on Harry McLean by MAG artist and professional storyteller, Johanna Kuyvenhoven. There is something here for both residents and visitors to Merrickville-Wolford. We hope to see you at the Festival. For further information, please contact Nick Previsich at nprevisich@bell.net
New Orleans-style jazz street party at the Street Piano
On July 20, the Street Piano will welcome Keith Hartshorn-Walton (tuba), Petr Cancura, Peter Gemmell, Linsey Wellman (saxophones – that’s right, 3 of 'em!), and Michel Delage (drums).
Ottawa Jazz Tubaist Keith Hartshorn-Walton and Friends have been here before, playing the first-ever show at the Street Piano in 2022 and marching in the Twilux Lantern Parade in Oxford Mills. Be prepared for the unexpected as these accomplished jazz improvisers and local favourites evoke the flavour of a spontaneous musical street party in New Orleans. Dancing encouraged!
As a tuba player, Keith toured with the Calgary’s Foothills Brass Quintet for three years before pursuing his Doctorate at McGill University, where he delved into jazz for the tuba. Since then, he has recorded with local groups like Melanie E., The Bank Street Bonbons, Pierre Chretien’s Cinephonic 2, and Linsey Wellman’s Weddings and Funerals trio, while his own trio, Tubari, was featured at the 2023 Ottawa Jazz Festival.
Keith hosts a monthly jazz jam session in Ottawa at Irene’s pub the second Monday of every month, and plays regularly with Fever Pitch, a monthly traditional jazz quartet at The Art House Cafe.
What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents
Who? Keith Hartshorn-Walton and Friends
When? Saturday July 20, 1pm
Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace
How much? Free! (Cash donations welcome, or see the featured section on our FB page for the link to our GoFundMe campaign).
Learn more about Keith here: https://www.facebook.com/drkeithtuba/
I recently had my Fuji XT-2 camera converted by “Night Sky Camera” in BC, to Full Spectrum, a type of Infrared. With a clip-in IR Chrome filter from “Kolari Vision”, and some post processing magic performed in Adobe Lightroom, some striking and colourful variations are possible as well as eerie B&W if that’s what you prefer.
For this image (in Lightroom), a proper white balance was achieved by selecting an area in the clouds with the eyedropper tool. From there I was able to simply use the sliders for the red/orange and blue/teal channels until I found a colour combination I liked which had good contrast between the sky and vegetation to really make the image pop.
The possibilities are endless; but the most fun is had by getting out to see what might make a good subject. Image by Sies Visser.
Volunteer opportunity at the Musical Instrument Lending Library
The new Musical Instrument Lending Library – set to open next month – is currently accepting volunteer applications. MILL volunteers will assist the public (including children and youth) with selecting and learning musical instruments. Interested applicants should have a background and/ or passion for music and must be able to successfully pass a police records check with vulnerable sector screening. We are accepting MILL volunteers for days, evenings, and weekends; short- and long-term volunteering opportunities available.
“The topic of music education seems to have struck a chord with the community – and we couldn't be more jazzed about having the MILL on Campus!” writes the Kemptville Campus. For more information about volunteering, visit https://ngpl.ca/jobs/
Life or Land: A McCargar Story
by Yvonne McCargar
My grandmother, Evelyn McCargar, in her later years invested in the research of our family tree and I have used that research and more to pen my novel, “Life or Land: A McCargar Story”.
The McCargars were one of the first families of the Kemptville area, and the patriarchs are buried on the grounds of the Old Methodist cemetery. Thomas McCargar, the eldest son of Thomas McCargar Sr, built the first stone house in the area later called Leahurst house.
I have written a book on how the McCargars came to be in North America. This first book I have published takes the reader from Scotland to Quebec to New York through various campaigns, captures, escapes, etc. I am working on the sequel that will follow the McCargars when they leave the army until they obtain land in South Gower Township. I also have plans for a third book related to my father-
in-law’s experience. Being Polish, he was picked up and sent to a Russian gulag, released to join Anders Army, fought in the battle of Monte Cassino, came to Canada as a displaced person, and worked on a farm in Smith Falls for two years before being granted citizenship.
While the book is a work of fiction, I have researched the time period and I believe my novel respects and stays true to the history. With my love for Jodi Picoult's books, I have given another take on the killing of Jane McCrea, who's death I believe incited such outrage that may have caused many, who were not called upon by Washington, to join the fight.
My novel contains various themes of alcoholism, spousal abuse, postpartum depression and prejudices of the time. My father, John Coleman McCargar (now deceased) was born and raised on a farm in Mountain, built by Hugh McCargar, the fourth son of Thomas McCargar Sr. All seven sons of Thomas McCargar became
Meet Barbie!
prominent members of the area. Thomas McCargar Jr, the eldest, served as an ensign in the battle of 1812, a captain in the rebellion of 1837, and later a magistrate of Johnstown District.
I grew up just outside of Kenmore with my three sisters, went to school in Metcalfe (Osgoode Township High school) and attended Algonquin College. I have worked for the last 34 years as a dental hygienist at the Manotick Dental Clinic, and continue to do so. Some of the books that inspired me to be a writer include a grade 8 read for me – Anya Seton's book “Katherine”, which made me fall in love with historical fiction, then later in high school, I read “Five Smooth Stones” by Ann Fairbairn about the Civil Rights Movement, and “The Women's Room” by Marilyn French about the Feminist Movement. I am also a fan of Diana Gabaldon's “Outlander” books. I like an easy read and I believe I write in that manner. I'm 64 and have lived in Ottawa for all of my career, but my sisters live in Osgoode and Greely, and my mother is in the Wellings of Winchester.
I encourage all locals to pick up a copy of “Life or Land: A McCargar Story”. I’m sure that you’ll be glad you did!
Local Arts Guild artist donates unique sculpture
In an ongoing celebration of art and community and as a way to commemorate Salamanders Restaurant’s 15th Anniversary this coming September, Gerald (Gerry) Chamberlain, local artist and a member of the NG Arts Guild, has donated a one-of-a-kind Salamander sculpture which is currently on display in the restaurant. The sculpture, a unique blend of pop-can tabs and crochet, stands as a testament to Chamberlain's innovative artistry and the strong partnership that has existed between
Salamanders Restaurant and the NG Arts Guild since its rebirth almost a decade ago.
Gerry Chamberlain has had a lifelong passion for art. "Throughout my elementary and secondary school days, I loved to draw and paint, and even dabbled in wood carving," Chamberlain recalls. However, it wasn't until his retirement that he fully immersed himself in his artistic pursuits and rekindled his passion. Chamberlain's work explores a variety of mediums including sculpting, where he works with
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materials such as wood, clay, Paverpol, and – most recently – pop can tabs. The Salamander sculpture is one of his remarkable pop tab projects, showcasing his ability to blend everyday materials into extraordinary pieces of art.
The donation of the Salamander sculpture to Salamanders Restaurant not only highlights Chamberlain's creative talents, but also honors the ongoing collaboration between the restaurant and the NG Arts Guild. As an active participant in NGAG’s venues program, Salamanders showcases the work of numerous NG Arts Guild Artists with new art being installed every few months. This sculpture is more than just an artwork; it's a symbol of community, creativity, and the joy of sharing art with others. Gerry Chamberlain can be reached at 55gercha@ gmail.com for inquiries about his artwork and future projects. For further information about the NG Arts Guild, check out their Facebook page or website at https://ngarts-guild.ca/
Gerald Chamberlain and Paul Cormier of Salamanders
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Modern Prairie (MP)
Modern Prairie (MP)
Paying The Toll
by David Shanahan
Many countries have introduced tolls on highways as a way to pay for infrastructure. The idea that those who use roads should help pay for them directly is one that makes sense. But it not at all a new concept, and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville introduced the idea more than a hundred and seventy-five years ago.
In 1847, the Council of Leeds and Grenville voted to establish good roads to facilitate travel around the County. Most of the roads that existed before that were just modifications of old Indian trails, often impassable if the weather was bad. The new concession roads being cleared in each Township were fine for local travel in many cases, but too often they were overgrown and rough. These
roads were the responsibility of the residents who lived on them. Every year, residents were required to work from one to three days in making, repairing and maintaining the roads in front of their property. But where the lots were vacant, there was a shortage of labour to do the job. So, the County Council decided to take the initiative, on a county- wide level, to provide a few good thoroughfares that would run through the county.
The second of these new County Road was to link Prescott with Kemptville, and, in North Grenville, followed the same route as County Road 44. In 1850, tenders were requested to pave the section from Prescott to Spencerville. But the road from there to Kemptville remained a mix of plank road and gravel for decades afterwards. It was not until 1857 that the Kemptville road was completed, and it
The story of the FFC part 5 Alf Campbell - friend
cost a great deal of money. The work was contracted out and paid for by charging a toll for the use of the new road. There were three toll booths between Prescott and Kemptville, one of which was in Spencerville itself and another at Christies Corners where theroad crossed into Oxford Township. The line of the road was altered recently, to allow for a gentler curve at the junction with Porter and Totem Ranch Roads. The original line ran north along Porter Road as far as McKenzie. McKenzie Road is the original line of CR 44, and the toll booth would have been just before the junction with Porter.
The contractors who ran the booths complained about people bypassing them during the winter months, by taking short cuts across ice and snow to avoid paying the tolls. To add to the cost, full time clergymen were allowed to
of the forest
by David Shanahan
No history of the Ferguson Forest Centre would be complete without a section on the career of Alf Campbell. Alf didn’t look like a warrior, and he didn’t sound like one either. But, long before the term was used as it is today, Alf Campbell was an Eco-Warrior of the highest order. He spent more than half a century in our community, adding to our knowledge of, and appreciation of forests and trees and the plants and their importance in our survival as a people.
Inspired by the work of the great godfather of forestry in Ontario, Edmund Zavitz, Alf went to the University of Toronto’s School
of Forestry, and when he graduated, back in 1956, he arrived in Kemptville to begin his life’s work. He and Peg his wife of 56 years, came here as a young married couple, getting lost in Merrickville and trying to find out where Kemptville was. County Road 43 was just the gravel Hoey Road in those days, and Alf and Peg must have wondered what they were getting into here.
He began as an Extension Forester, working both at Limerick Forest and the Ferguson Forest Station north of the Village of Kemptville, as it was then. How different the place was in 1956. Alf once told me that, when he first went to Limerick Forest, the trees
travel free of tolls. So, in 1856, the County Council agreed to renegotiate the contract with the operator of the toll booths, Robert Peden. In return for granting him rights to tolls for 15, instead of 13 years, he agreed to remove the toll booth at Christie’s Corners. One of the reasons why his contract was renegotiated was that, when he had first been awarded it, Peden had actually been a member of the County Council. This led to questions over the legality of his contract, and subsequently, the legality of the tolls themselves. The new contract legalised the toll system, and Peden was made responsible for maintaining the four County Roads authorised by Council.
In 1862, control of the County Roads was passed to the Municipalities through which they passed. Oxford Township took responsibility for
that section from Porter Road through to Beckett’s Landing, aside from the section passing through the Town of Kemptville. One of the pivotal points on the road was the bridge in Kemptville, and the County Council continued to provide funds for repairing this bridge over the years.
However, when a new bridge was urgently needed in 1885, the County looked to recoup some of its investment in the Town. Their idea was to build a toll booth on the new bridge itself, something which the Town Council found very unsatisfactory.
The idea that residents of Kemptville would have to pay a toll every time they crossed from one side of town to the other was completely unacceptable to them. The County Council then suggested that Kemptville pay a lump sum in lieu of the toll booth.
The new bridge had
cost $5,279 to complete, and the County were prepared to accept from Kemptville a cash payment of $1,300 and a by- law "fully assuming the bridge for all time to come"as a municipal responsibility. Kemptville agreed to the plan in June, 1886. But in 1890, Thomas Conley, Reeve of Kemptville, arranged that the County would once again take responsibility for the bridge.
In 1918, the road became one of the first of the new Provincial Highways to be established by the provincial Government; an indication of its importance in the provincial transportation system. Known at first as the Prescott Highway, it officially became Highway 16 in 1925. By then, highway tolls had been abolished throughout Ontario, and residents were literally free to travel the roads of North Grenville.
only came up to his waist. He could stand and look out over them, as far as the eye could see. The Forest had only been in existence since 1940, and was an attempt to reforest an area that had once been cleared farmland, an area that had been devastated by wind and erosion after the tree ocver had been removed.
Alf Campbell worked at bringing the trees back, and reforestation, a major scheme in Ontario since Zavitz had been encouraged by G. Howard Ferguson in the 1920's and 30's. Alf was a unique link, an almost circular chain connecting Zavitz, Howard Ferguson and Kemptville. Ferguson, native of Kemptville, had encouraged Zavitz, who inspired Alf, who came to work in Kemptville at the Forest Station established in 1945 and named after Ferguson. He embodied a heritage, a desire and determination to restore their forests to the people of Ontario and to ensure that the land would always have its protective tree cover and life-supporting forests.
But it was just as a professional Forester that Alf contributed to this worthy cause: he became a teacher himself, someone who informed and inspired younger
generations too. Almost from the beginning of his time here, he began arranging visits by school children to the Forest Station, teaching about how the forest ecosystem came about after the settlers arrived and cleared the land. Around 400 kids a year, mostly from Grade 5 and from schools all over the region, starting coming to the Station in the late 1950's or early 1960's. He made them quite literally, tree-huggers, sharing with them his love of trees and impressing on them how vital healthy forests are to healthy people.
Right up until recent years, Alf continued to bring children on tours of the Ferguson Forest Centre, continuing his role as teacher and enthusiast. So many people have very fond memories of Alf and Peg. Local resident, David Herman and his wife remember another side to Alf:
"Josephine and I are saddened to learn if Alf's passing. I sang in the Ottawa Valley Men's choir with Alf. He loved singing and was a avid gardener. He grew garlic and donated a lot to the St. John Farmers market and loved to talk of his experiences. I am sure he is in the finest choir possible now. Miss you Alf."
Liza Duhaime worked
with Alf at the Ferguson Forest Centre and appreciated what he brought to the work and the atmosphere there:
"He was charming and fun, enlightened and passionate about Ferguson Forest Centre. Alf was a wonderful teacher and I have vivid memories of those events and a better appreciation of what's around me on my forest walks. I feel honoured to have known Alf".
I had the pleasure of filming an interview with Alf and some other great people a few years ago. He spoke of his decades of work
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1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville and life in North Grenville, sitting beside two other contributors to the FFC, Adam Shewchuk and Owen Fitz’Gerald, who have also passed away since then. But thanks to them, and to Alf and his contemporaries, we still have a Forest Centre, taken over after the province closed the Station in 1995. Alf passed on his passion and determination to other generations, and both Limerick Forest and the FFC will remain as a wonderful and green memory of a great man who cared for them so much.
Alf Campbell 1995
Alf Campbell, 2016
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
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 has shifted into summer mode. A lunch will be served on JULY 19TH, AUGUST 2ND and AUGUST 16TH. Regular weekly lunches will resume on SEPTEMBER 6TH. Lunches are served at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.
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. 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, July 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, July 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 Kemptville Street Piano Concert, Sunday afternoons at 1pm to mid-September at the North Grenville Public Library. https://www.facebook.com/KemptvilleStreetPiano/ South Branch Serenade at Rotary Park, every Thursday night throughout July and August, between 5:30 – 7:00pm.
UPCOMING EVENTS
WIZARD CARD GAME TOURNAMENT on Sunday, August 11 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 12:30 and play starts at 1:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ ymail.com.
OASIS PAINTING
Free Quotes! INTERIOR / EXTERIOR 613-408-4432 - William
FOR SALE
Mixed hardwood firewood. $120 per face cord. Call or text Jon 613-227-3650.
4X4 round bales and small squares of hay, suitable for horses. Call or text Jon 613227-3650.
Thule 4 bike rack with 2" receiver for 2 hole hitch. Plus two bike cross bars. $200. 613 258 3512
8500 BTU window air conditioner. 3/4 hp shallow well jet pump. 613-282-1836
TASCO 675x60 mm power refractor telescope. Bounty Hunter metal detector. 613282-1836
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
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.WAN
GARAGE SALES
Sat. July 27, 2024, 8:00-4:00. 904 Bolton Rd., 1km from Bishop's Mills. Ice auger, compound mitre saw, layout ground blind, commercial dehydrator, bike hitch for truck, electric boat motor, ice fishing tent, spinning wheel, chafing dishes, hybrid bike, commuter bike, much more.
ACROSS
1. Goofy
6. Big bash
10. Snake sound
14. Spooky
15. Footnote note
16. Rewrite
17. Sporting venue
18. Empty 19. Assistant
20. Rotating spit oven
22. Lacquered metalware
23. Not this
24. Club list
26. Smooth or level
30. Amazement
31. Boozer
32. Opera star
33. Stow, as cargo
35. Squeeze
39. With vigilance
41. Italian rice
43. Compassion
44. Glance over
46. Make a sweater
47. Anger
49. Flowery verse
50. Hearing organs
51. Justification
54. Pickpockets (slang)
56. Declines
57. Eyeglasses
63. Mongolian desert
64. Murres
65. Not tight
66. "Oh dear!"
67. Let out
68. Run off to wed
69. Not first
70. Type of sword
71. Nymph chaser
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
DOWN
1. Darling
2. Pertaining to flight
3. Worry
4. French for "End"
5. Leavening agent
6. Gifts
7. Cut short
8. Fifty-three in Roman numerals
9. Snakes
10. Hyperthermia
11. Blockhead
12. Move furtively
13. Direct
21. Will
25. Whoopsie
26. Type of cheese
27. Loathsome
28. Always
29. He loves himself
34. Wipe out
36. European volcano
37. Arouse
38. Drunkards
40. Apprentice
42. Bungling
45. Cough syrup ingredient
48. Guarantee
51. Royal
52. Deadly virus
53. Old Jewish scholars
55. The business of selling goods
58. Get ready
59. Soft drink
60. Plunder
61. Glimpse
62. Fortune teller
Canada needs a fair electoral system
by Steve Gabell
Imagine you are a high school student sitting a civics exam. You open the exam paper and see the following questions:
1a) Five parties running in a national election receive the following share of the vote: 34%, 24%,12%,14% and 7%. How many seats does each party get in the House of Commons?
1b) The party that won 34% in the most recent election increased their share of the vote by 1.7% from the previous election. How much did their share of the seats increase by?
Under a fair, representative, and proportional electoral system, a party winning a third of the vote would win about a third of the seats in Parliament, a party winning 15% of the vote would win about 15%
The
of the seats, and a party seeing a small increase in their share of the vote would see a small increase in the number of seats won. Unfortunately, the UK and Canada do not have such a system and the number of seats won depends on how votes are distributed across the country, so the questions above are impossible to answer.
Thanks to First Past The Post (FPTP), a party can win an enormous majority while having the support of less than one in three voters. In the recent UK general election, Labour won 63% of the seats on 34% of the vote (and an increase from 31% of seats on 32% of the vote in 2019). The Liberal Democrats were close to achieving a proportional result, with 11% of the seats from 12% of the vote, while Reform and the Greens
both won 6% of seats but won 14% and 7% of the vote respectively. While I disagree with Reform's policies, it is clearly absurd that a party can win twice as many votes as another party yet both win the same number of seats.
FPTP is a throwback to a bygone age where few people had the right to vote, MPs were known personally by many of the small electorate, MPs had some degree of independence, and communication was slow and limited. None of this applies now (with the exception of Greens at federal and provincial levels who do not whip their MPs/ MPPs). FPTP is not fit for purpose in the 21st Century and needs to be replaced by a more proportional system; one where the number of seats won reflects the share of the vote won.
While I may be delighted to see a Labour government elected again in the UK after 14 years of Conservative rule, it is inherently undemocratic for a party to be able to wield unchecked power thanks to the votes of one in three people who actually voted (and the support of only one in five of the electorate as a whole). Such a disproportionate result could happen here at both federal and provincial levels and would be just as undemocratic.
Canada needs a fair electoral system. One where every vote counts, where everyone is properly represented. One where a government needs the support of at least half the electorate to implement their policies. We need a proportional system, and we need it now.
Peacefully with family by her side at the Kemptville District Hospital on Tuesday July 9, 2024, at the age of 85. Beloved wife of the late Hugh Hamilton. Predeceased by her parents Edith and Harold Bell and her siblings Dorothy Cathcart (Bruce), Barb Massey, Audrey Sinclair (Bill) and Harold Bell (Eileen). Cherished aunt of Chris Cathcart (Kelly Durant), Meika Cathcart (Brian Kahler), and great-nieces Jennie and Millie Cathcart. Fondly remembered by many more nieces, nephews, grand- nieces and grand-nephews. Wilma will also be missed by her devoted canine companion Murphy, and the many friends she made in her time at Kemptville Retirement Living. A Memorial Service will be held at Hallville United Church, 10532 Church Road, on Saturday July 20, 2024 at 11 a.m, with lunch to follow; everyone is welcome. Interment to follow at Oxford Mills United Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Kemptville District Hospital, SPCA, or charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
The community events listed in this paper are made possible by the support of local businesses. Support your neighbours—shop locally!
Food Corner
by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville
You already know that our family is particularly fond of wraps, tacos and fajitas. Salamanders has a “Wrap du jour” on its menu every day just because we love ‘em. This week’s recipe is another kind of wrap, Chicken Tortillas. Like most “wrapped food”, these are tasty, healthy and very easy to make. They also lend themselves to feeding active families “on the go” and work well on paper plates. Vegetarians can easily substitute tofu for the chicken, or another vegetable such as green or red peppers, as desired. Just keep in mind that the nature of wrapped food is that it is messy to eat; so, bring on the napkins! This recipe is for four eaters; simply add to it for more folks and make it a family affair.
Chicken Tortillas
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, cut into thin strips
1 cup of corn kernels, either canned, frozen or stripped fresh from a cob
1 cup of salsa, chunky style
½ cup sliced black olives
1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese (the one with jalapeños is very nice)
8 tortilla shells (the ten-inch size is best)
Preparation
- Wrap the tortilla shells in foil and warm them in the oven at 350F for 10 or 15 minutes
- Cook your chicken strips in butter on medium heat until white (not pink)
- Add the corn, salsa and olives to your chicken and cook untill heated through
- Divide the mixture onto the warmed up 8 tortilla shells
- Divide the cheese in the same way
To serve, place two Chicken Tortillas on a plate. If you wish, you can provide your guests with an additional bowl full of salsa and/or one of sour cream to top their tortillas. Natural Greek yoghurt is also very good. Don’t forget the napkins. Like many wraps, these tortillas beg for a nice cold beer (lemonade for the munchkins). Many thanks again for your feedback on the column and on the recipes. Please keep your emails coming at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
Brockville Galaxy Cinemas location closes
by Brandon Mayer
A nearby theatre closed its doors permanently last weekend. Sunday, July 13 marked the last day of operation for the Galaxy Cinemas location in Brockville.
Spokespeople from Cineplex have simply stated that the lease for the location was up and that they decided not to renew it, but no reason was given why. It is no secret that going to the movie theatre is no longer as popular of an activity as it used to be.
Some are eager to blame internet content streaming services as being responsible for this decline in general desire to see movies away from home on the big screen. However, movies have been available “at home” for decades. DVD rentals were preceded by
VHS tape rentals, both of which were so common that they had dedicated retail stores such as Blockbuster. The availability of content at home cannot be the only source of the decline of movie theatre popularity.
The current economy could certainly play a part. Movie theatres have longstanding policies in place preventing guests from bringing in outside food or drink, and the price to buy refreshments on site can be exorbitant and prohibitive to some families. This can greatly impact the likelihood of visiting a theatre, particularly in families with young children who may not sit through the movie experience without a snack in hand.
Are there other factors at play? Is socializing outside of the home becoming less
common? Are families now less likely to want to enjoy collective entertainment within the same four walls, rather than each having their own screen with their own preferred content? While these questions are hard to answer, it’s clear that something is keeping seats from being filled in theatres the way they were being sold out in years past.
Brockville is the city centre for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. It will not just be a loss of business from Brockville residents that is felt by this closure.
“Some people come in and do a dinner and a movie, so the restaurants will be impacted, some people come in and after a movie go shopping, retail will be impacted that way,” said Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Pam Robertson. Prior to its closure, Galaxy Cinemas was the only “first run” movie theatre in Brockville (showing new release movies before they were available for at home viewing). The location opened in 2006, closing less than two decades later. It will surely be missed.
Hamilton, Wilma Marion (Nee Bell)
The right medicine on hand could save a life
Summer means different things to different people. But a glimpse into the Gifford-Jones archives suggests some things about summer never change. A vintage article from 1977 called on readers to pay heed to problems that can arise at the cottage. And it remains true, summertime is a dangerous season – especially for those escaping into the great outdoors.
People get into all sorts of trouble during vacations. Some become critically ill and should be rushed to hospital as soon as possible. But there are other occasions when having the right medicine nearby is lifesaving.
It has been said that he who treats himself has a fool for a patient. But if you're on a canoe trip or at a cottage far away from civilization, medical improvisation may be the game you find yourself playing.
Every summer, the absence of easily acquired provisions costs the lives of some vacationers. So take the time to prepare a kit outfitted with common medications and supplies.
Encounters with animals are one concern. Run-ins with big ones, like moose or bears, are rare but dangerous. A simple noise maker might be all you need to avoid surprising mama bear and her cubs. But for most vacationers, it’s smaller creatures that cause big trouble, like the stings of wasps, bees, yellow jackets and hornets.
Chances are very slim that a death will occur. But this is the fate of about 100 North Americans each year. If a child or a friend were to be stung and have an anaphylactic reaction, you would want an emergency bee sting kit within quick access. A loaded syringe containing epinephrine needs to be injected under the skin. At the same time the victim should swallow a couple of antihistamine tablets.
You don't require a medical degree to diagnose a bee sting or give an injection. The important thing is to have this kit available, and for everyone to know where it is located. Even the world's most brilliant doctor would have to stand helplessly by and watch the patient die without this medication.
Before you leave, ask your doctor to provide you with some broad spectrum antibiotic capsules. These are not to be used for the common cold. But if someone suddenly develops a boil or a raging fever, chest pain, and begins to cough up copious amounts of sputum, there is a 99 per cent chance that these capsules are what the doctor would order.
Holiday time is notoriously hard on the stomach. Many people eat and drink too much causing a transient gastritis. At other times it results from an infection. Putting the stomach at rest for a few days is the first step towards a resolution. But you can also help nature by swallowing a few antacid tablets for a day or two. If the upset is accompanied by vomiting, checking with a doctor on treatment options is the best move.
Summer is also a time for injuries, and a support bandage in the medical supply bag will come in handy when someone sprains an ankle. A few tablets of codeine will aid in relieving the pain.
Infection often plagues those who take to the woods in summer. Children, in particular, are prone to ear and eye infections from swimming. Most of these common ailments quickly respond to antibiotic drops or ointment. If they appear to be getting worse, head for the nearest clinic.
Remember to throw in some sunscreen, band aids, antiseptic, aspirins, and calamine lotion for poison ivy, bug bites, and rashes. And always, always, check for ticks when coming in from the outdoors.
Then relax and enjoy your holidays!
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KWK is known for The best quality products in the area
Excellent workmanship for all installations
Friendly and knowlegable staff
Founded in 1989, Kemptville Windows and Kitchens is a famiy owned and operated business serving homeowners and fellow contractors in Kemptville and surrounding areas, from south west Ottawa to Prescott, Winchester, South Mountain and Merrickville.
Our sales and design personel are experienced professionals that take pride themselves on working with our clients from start to finish, providing them with more than just quality products and workmanship, but with a helpful indepth knowledge of industry codes, standards and cureent trends. We do onsite visits to measure and work with you from start to finish, that way you get what you want.
We supply, or supply and install kitchen cabinets, countertops, bathroom vanities, windows, doors and much more, for renovations or new construction in North Grenville and surrounding areas.
Come vist our show room, open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm and Saturdays, 9am to 1pm
You can also visit us at www.kwandk.ca
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Robert Hossie - Sales & Service
James Hossie, Sales & Service
Terry Vandemheen, Sales/Office
2 Industrial Rd. Kemptville, ON 613-258-7464
kwandk@bellnet.ca
kwandk@bellnet.ca
Phone:613 329 0209
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Email: melissa@ngtimes.ca www.ngtimes.ca
