Issue 39 2023 October 05 NG Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

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The Voice of North Grenville

Reaching by direct mail 8,500 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca

October 5, 2023

Vol. 11 No. 39

A great future built on a solid past

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Part of the festivities involved a panel of the first Council members participating in a Q&A. Later on, Tom Graham, a well known resident from Bishop’s Mills who designed the North Grenville logo, shared a few words in place of historian David Shanahan who was unable to attend. David’s significant contributions to the historical understanding of the local area were acknowledged. The traditional Indigenous roots of the area were well explored Mayor Nancy Peckford shakes hands with former North Grenville Mayor, Bruce Harrison, at the celebration – Indigenous claim to the land on who was a Councillor in the Municipality’s first amalgamated government. which North Grenville sits 1998, through the amal- in attendance, with many goes back centuries and North Grenville gamation of the town- others sending their re- makes 25 years look like a officially celebrates ships of Oxford on Rideau grets. mere pittance of time.

25th Cahl easily entertained and South Gower, and Words were shared anniversary the large crowd of guests the Town of Kemptville. honouring the late Don

by Ashley Sloan On the evening of “Amalgamation does not with many stories of North Cameron, the first Mayor September 26, the Mu- come without its fair share Grenville’s early days. He of North Grenville, who nicipality held its official of challenges and uncer- noted that the very first passed away in 2021 at the festivities to celebrate the tainties but we have made issue that North Grenville age of 80.

MP Michael Barrett 25th anniversary of North huge achievements,” said had to get through was the Grenville’s amalgamation. CEO Karen Dunlop in her Ice Storm, and that getting gave a speech highlighting The event took place at the opening remarks at the the word out to the rest the spirit and welcoming of Ontario about where enthusiasm that the North North Grenville Municipal celebration.

The evening was host- exactly North Grenville is Grenville community had Centre, with many notable people in attendance to ed by Cahl Pominville, posed the next challenge. toward the Ukrainian comcelebrate the historic oc- a former Clerk who has Many municipalities, upon munity when they needed casion. Attendees included been with the Municipality learning of the amalgama- somewhere to go.

MPP Steve Clark gave all members of the cur- (if one counts the former tion, decided to follow suit.

Cahl recognized that a speech as well, commentrent Council, many former Town of Kemptville) for the world of local gover- ing on how North GrenCouncil members, MP over 25 years.

Former Councillors nance is very busy, and that ville was a true model for Michael Barrett, and MPP Steve Clark, to name a few. David Delaney, Richard the families of municipal the amalgamation process North Grenville was Bole, Nancy Curtis, Pat- employees deserve thanks and how positive the conformed in the winter of rick Desmond White, Barb for giving them the opportunity to make the commu1998, concurrent with the Tobin, and cont'd on page 2 Frank Onasonya were nity a better place through well known Ice Storm of

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versations went in the 90’s to get us to where we are today. This had set North Grenville apart from the other municipalities, he noted.

In her speech toward the end of the celebration, Mayor Peckford spoke of the Chain of Office she was wearing around her neck, and what an important

symbol it is. “North Grenville deserves this,” she said, referring to the Chain of Office as a way to mark the contributions of hundreds of people over several decades. She thanked Bruce Harrison for being in attendance to wear it, given his long history with the Municipality. Bruce was a Council member sitting

Fall Tune Up Time!!

Celebrating 10 years in business

The Kemptville Legion is your legion too

on NG’s first Council, and was also responsible for introducing the first Police Service Board here, among many other accomplishments. “He needed to wear it, I am only here in passing, and we really need to respect and recognize and celebrate the leaders who were so integral in bringing North Grenville together and allowing it to be what it is today,” added Mayor Peckford.

Bruce gave a simple analogy that the best way to strengthen steel is to subject it to stress: fold it, bend it, and plunge it through fire, then into water and sometimes ice it over and over again. So the best way to measure the character of a community is to witness how its members react to stress. He noted that the Ice Storm of 1998 brought the community even closer together.

A reception followed the celebration with food provided by a handful of local businesses who have been serving the community for 25 years or more, some for much longer.

Overall, the evening was a wonderful commemoration of an amazing Municipality.

submitted by Fiona Plunkett The Legion isn't just for Veterans. It's also a hub for community events, as well as a gathering place for friends and family alike. Our monthly breakfast is the best place to meet your neighbours, make new

friends, and catch up on local events.

There's something for everyone! Do you like bingo, euchre, darts, karaoke, or open mic nights? We've got you covered! Fun fact: Did you know that we have the only pool table in town? The Legion hall is also available for rent

The gift of giving!

Christmas shopping at the Hospital

submitted by Jean Gallant Did you know that the Gift Shop at the Kemptville District Hospital is a great place to buy gifts or even a special treat for yourself and that in doing so, you are also giving to the ongoing support of the Hospital? And as an added bonus, you won’t pay sales tax, as the Gift and Coffee shops are run by volunteers of the hospital Auxiliary.

When you walk into the Shop, you will see lovely October 5, 2023

The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

cont'd from front page

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new fall and winter clothing including sweaters, dresses, pants, and scarves, as well as beautiful accessories for your home. Browsing the shelves further, you’ll come across jewellery in all sorts of the most popular designs, hats, purses, gloves, umbrellas and many more items displayed all around the store.

The Gift Shop also boasts our ever popular ‘Second Hand Rose’ section featuring an always changing assortment of donated items ranging from jewellery to china, puzzles and many unique items, all in excellent condition and at extremely

to individuals and to local community groups who need a larger space for weddings, birthdays, fundraisers, or general good natured shenanigans!

Volunteers are enthusiastically welcomed at all Legion-hosted events. Do you have SmartServe and are you interested in bartending? We're happy to have you join our team of volunteers. Do you have teenagers who need some volunteer hours? We can help with that too!! Please contact the branch at rcl212@ cogeco.net.

The Kemptville Legion is your legion too.

Although new members are always welcome, you don't have to be a member to drop by.

Anyone and everyone is welcome.

low prices. The items move fast so there is usually something new to see.

There is also a wide assortment of books that have been donated. They are in almost new condition and here again, turnover is frequent with the newer titles going fast, as the price is only $1.00 per book. We also have children’s books in like-new condition, for 50 cents each.

While you’re browsing and checking gifts off your Christmas list, you can also enjoy a lovely cup of coffee – there are 15 different blends from mocha to cappuccino to French vanilla and everything in between.

Or if you’re hungry, there are sandwiches, soups, and many snack items as well as cozy tables and chairs where you can sit and take a break.

So come and check out the Gift Shop at the Kemptville District Hospital. You’ll find gifts at great prices, no tax, and the proceeds all go to support the Hospital. As a bonus, you’ll get a friendly smile from our wonderful volunteers! Come and say hi!

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St. Michael teacher receives Ontario Coaching Excellence Award

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by Brandon Mayer A local teacher has been given a very prestigious award for his coaching of students at St. Michael Catholic High School in Kemptville. Chris Finner was one of only 13 coaches to be recognized across the Province of Ontario, with the awards being given in Toronto on September 16. The group of coaches was treated to a VIP Blue Jays suite experience and celebration.

“Mr. Finner received the award for his dedication to finding a place for anyone who supports the team, whether it be on or off the court, and for developing students to be better athletes, teammates, mentors, and leaders,” reads a statement from the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario. “His all-hands-ondeck approach takes school involvement in sport to new heights and has contributed to both the team and individual student athletes’ successes.”

Winners of the Ontario October 5, 2023

Coaching Excellence Award also receive $500 from Hydro One for reimbursement of purchases they make for their team.

“I feel very fortunate to have received the award as I know there are many deserving coaches out there, including many great ones in our building here at St. Michael,” said Chris. “It was a superb experience to be able to spend an afternoon with an amazing group of coaches from across the Province at the ceremony. I feel like my batteries are recharged and I’m ready to get back to my athletes this year for yet another great experience.”

Like most great coaches, Chris has had mentors himself along the way which helped to shape his journey as an educator and sports leader.

“I think coaching is important to me because I was blessed to have some outstanding coaches in elementary school, high school, and as a university athlete,” Chris added. “They were a

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major positive influence in my life and helped guide me in those crucial formative years. Those coaches set a high standard which has helped me to set goals for my own role as a coach and as a mentor. As the years have passed, I’ve entered a new phase where now many of my former players have progressed into taking on a coaching role. That is more rewarding than I might have predicted. I’m very proud to see the torch passed to the next generation.”

Great job, Chris!

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The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

The real people behind the press courtesy of News Media Canada It's no secret that thousands of news stories are published in Canada each day. From local community features to national breaking news stories, the people behind the press work tirelessly to ensure readers have access to credible news they can trust.

But who exactly are the people behind the press?

It could be the person sitting next to you at your favourite coffee shop or the spectator who cheers on your local little league each week; it's someone in the community just like you!

And just like you, the people behind the press care deeply about their community - so much so that they've made it their life's work to keep citizens informed and connected. At the core of every newspaper is a team of real people committed to telling real

stories that impact the lives of those in their community.

Champions of the truth come in many forms. It could be journalists and photographers who are on the ground capturing these stories as they happen – using the power of words and imagery to make change.

It could be publishers and editors who keep their newsrooms buzzing with opportunities to ensure that community stories make it beyond local borders. Or cartoonists who help readers interpret these same stories visually.

There are a handful of powerhouses behind every story who all have one common goal: keeping our democracy thriving through vibrant, independent and local news media.

During National Newspaper Week (October 1-7, 2023), we celebrate the people behind the press for their ongoing commitment

to keeping communities connected and our democracy thriving through credible reporting. While they might be people in your community, they are also champions of the truth.

To pay tribute to Canada's champions of the truth, News Media Canada has created its first-ever illustrated book entitled "Champions." This book features the stories of notable Canadians from the news media industry who play an integral role in keeping newspapers alive - the most credible source of information that remains written by humans, for humans.

Learn more about National Newspaper Week and show your support for the industry by purchasing a copy of the Champions book and downloading the "Champions" font at www.

ChampionsoftheTruth.ca.

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.

• Wednesday, October 11 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) – Council Chambers • Tuesday, October 17 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) – Council Chambers

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.

One year since the disappearance of Lawrence Bertrim

Missing person, Lawrence Bertrim.

Investigation continues, public input essential submitted by OPP It has been one year since Smiths Falls resident Lawrence BERTRIM disappeared.

Lawrence, who would now be 43, was last seen on September 30, 2022, at about 11:00 pm in downtown Smiths Falls.

The Smiths Falls Police Service (SFPS) initially began a missing person investigation and requested assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police in December 2022. SFPS has been working collaboratively with the OPP since January of this year, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).

Lawrence BERTRIM is 5'6" (171 cms), of medium build - 149 lbs (67.5 kg), October 5, 2023

with brown hair and blue eyes.

While investigators have been receiving an abundance of second-hand information, the detectives need to hear from anyone with potential first-hand knowledge of Lawrence's activities the night he disappeared or in the days leading up to September 30, 2022.

Investigators believe someone has key information.

Investigators and family members are concerned for Lawrence's well-being and believe that someone in the

• • •

Housing Advisory Committee – Wednesday, October 5 at 5:30 p.m.

Heritage Advisory Committee – Tuesday, October 10 at 4:30 p.m.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee – Thursday, October 12 at 5:30 p.m.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

community has information regarding his whereabouts.

A video appeal from Lawrence BERTRIM's family can be seen on the Ontario Provincial Police East Region Facebook page or on X at @OPP_ER. Anyone with information should call the OPP tip line at 1-844-677-9404 to reach detectives working on the investigation.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477(TIPS) or go online at www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

Planner I The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill the position of Planner I in the Planning & Development Department. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 6, 2023.

Advisory Committees Join the conversation regarding the community! The Municipality continues to accept applications for members to various advisory committees. 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 613-258-9569 ext 171.

NORTH GRENVILLE TRANSIT

North Grenville provides an on-demand accessible transit service for those with disabilities and those 65 years of age and older. Riders can be picked up and dropped off anywhere in North Grenville. For more information and to register visit www.northgrenville.ca/transit or call 613-258-9569 ext. 133

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Financial incentives are available for businesses and property owners to continue the revitalization of Downtown Kemptville. As part of the Downtown Kemptville Community Improvement Plan, intake is now open for the following financial programs: Façade & Signage Grant, People Make the Place Grant, Building Fees Grant, and Tax-Increment Equivalent Residential Grant.

The Development Charges Exemption is still in place for downtown. Intake is on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. If you have questions or are looking to apply, please email vision@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-258-9569 ext 177.

Township of North Dundas Career Opportunities

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

We’re Hiring!

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Seasonal Plow Truck Drivers (Day Shifts, Afternoon Shifts & Casual/Call-in)

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Seasonal Labourers (Day Shift)

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

For full position descriptions and details, visit Career Opportunities on our website: www.northdundas.com Application deadline is October 31, 2023.

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Township of North Dundas 636 St. Lawrence St., PO Box 489, Winchester, ON K0C 2K0

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Editorial

Symphony of embarrassment

by Brandon Mayer Living in the “Ottawa area”, it can sometimes feel like stupid federal government decisions (and there sure are a lot of them) are “our responsibility”. They aren’t, obviously, but it nevertheless feels like we should be apologizing to the rest of Canada. One stupid decision on September 22 was so thoroughly bad that our own Prime Minister has announced that all of Canada should be embarrassed. I’m left asking – how exactly is it my fault?

The decision I’m referring to was made, allegedly,

by Speaker of the House of Commons, Anthony Rota.

He is accused of inviting a veteran to Parliament to be honoured without realizing that the veteran fought as part of a Nazi unit in World War II. The reason I say “allegedly” when referring to something that the Speaker has publicly admitted, is because politics is a very dirty game. People are asked to take the fall all the time. I

don’t doubt that the Speaker was part of the league of non-thinkers that invited the Nazi veteran to Parliament, but I can’t accept that the government had no knowledge of it and is completely without shared responsibility. Speaker Rota has since resigned.

In politics, everything is political, even when it’s specifically designed not to look political. I remember when Jack Layton died while on leave from his long tenure as leader of the federal NDP party, not long after he led the party through a massive increase in popularity and ended up being Leader of the Opposition. Prime Minister Harper offered a state funeral despite it not being required for anyone besides prime ministers and governors general, and Jack Layton’s widow, Olivia Chow, accepted. At the time, many people probably thought that this gesture was a wonderful break from politics – a politician offering a touching, posthumous honour to his main opponent. In reality, it likely helped Stephen Harp-

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, Questioning, debating, and even disagreeing with government policy is not attacking people. It is a part of democracy. It is unfortunate to see and hear members of the political class using rhetoric that undermines these cornerstones of democracy. Then again, we shouldn’t be too surprised. Democracy, like all things of human origin, will come to an end eventually.

Sincerely, Mark vanDelst

Dear Editor, I am writing an acknowledgement of appreciation for your fine weekly newspaper. This acknowledgement has been a long time coming.

Almost 3 years ago, my wife and I closed on a house in the very southern part of North Grenville. Interestingly, it was a home we bought sight unseen. Why? COVID. We had visited the The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc.

Marketing/Sales

Melissa Ottenhof marketing@ngtimes.ca 613 329 0209

October 5, 2023

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Kemptville area a number of times over the past several years because a good friend of ours lives there. She was good enough to partner with a realtor to look at a number of homes in the area which might meet our needs. One was found, and I put in my two weeks of quarantine in the basement apt of a friend of my friend – doing chores to earn my keep. I left quarantine on the morning of the closing on the home, and found the North Grenville Times in the mailbox.

My wife and I have a home in New York State, but I am a dual US/Canadian citizen. I was born in Toronto, educated at U of Guelph and worked in Montreal and London ON for a large company before being transferred to its HQ in NYC. I have long wanted ‘stakes’ in Ontario and finally persuaded my wife that 2020 was the time. My wife is now pursuing permanent residency in Canada. During the dozens of visits I have

er’s image even amongst those who despised him.

Nothing against Stephen Harper personally, it’s just that in politics, everything really is political.

How does this relate to the invitation of a Nazi veteran to the Canadian Parliament? Simply put, every non-Liberal politician is loving this story because it’s a great way to lay blame and criticism on the Prime Minister and his government. Surely there’s a better vetting process for people invited into a session of the House of Commons, particularly when they are there to be honoured, right?

The problem with being too quick to push politics is that it can make one look like… well… an idiot.

It was my lovely wife who pointed out to me, when we were discussing the House of Commons Nazi veteran fiasco, that ALL of the MPs who were present that day applauded the veteran. In fact, news agencies around the world have been very eager to point out that the veteran was given

a standing ovation. I don’t deny that he was introduced as a “hero”, and there was very little opportunity for MPs to analyze the situation, but as my wife pointed out to me – the veteran was specifically introduced as having “fought the Russians”. There appear to be many sitting MPs who need to take a history lesson. Russia may be responsible for horrific acts toward Ukraine in the present time, but they were indeed the enemy of Nazi Germany during World War II. Anyone listening to the Speaker’s introduction on September 22 could have surmised that someone who had “fought the Russians” was a Nazi.

If all MPs applauded the veteran, isn’t it completely ridiculous and hypocritical to then turn around and criticize only the Speaker, or to point fingers at Justin Trudeau? I do not hide my dislike of Trudeau, but this unfortunate situation was an “everyone” problem. Applause should not be given out of sheer habit. Just like a compliment or an apol-

ogy, applause should mean something. In the House of Commons on September 22, each MP either gave genuine applause while failing to think about and process who the veteran was, or they gave unmeaningful applause just because that’s what MPs do in Parliament. There is no third option. Both options are embarrassing. In fact, it wasn’t just the unresearched invite from the speaker that embarrassed Canadians on September 22 – applause from every elected federal politician in the country formed a horridly harmonious symphony of embarrassment.

Democracy requires adversarial debate. Politicians cannot always agree on everything, because if they did, ordinary citizens would lose the power of choice through voting, and would therefore lose the power and benefit of democracy itself. Disagreement, however, does not need to equate to a lack of civility. In this case, there is nothing to disagree on – what happened in the House of Commons on September

22 was embarrassing and has made other countries look down on Canada. Every MP was a part of it, though some more than others, and now is not the time for a political stunt.

Pierre Poilievre is an excellent politician. By this, I mean that he is great at playing politics, and he rarely makes a political mistake.

Will he be good for Canada if elected? I don’t know, no one knows, but he is definitely good at “talking the talk” in the meantime. His response to the veteran situation is a notable exception to his avoidance of political faux pas. He has politicized a sensitive and embarrassing issue despite taking part in the issue himself.

Instead of being so quick to point fingers, he too, and all MPs, should be saying their apologies. Applauding may have been “just a mistake”, but where I come from, mistakes are followed by taking responsibility. Say “sorry” – it is, after all, the Canadian way.

made to our North Grenville home over the past few years, I have always enjoyed reading the North Grenville Times from cover to cover.

During deepest, darkest COVID, it was a way for me to learn about the community when I couldn’t leave our property. Sure, I waved to people and cars on the road, and to the fine folks from Instacart and Brigadoon (on special occasions) that delivered food during the two weeks of isolation – and many of my/our visits were less than 2 weeks. Such a strange time to move to a new community.

Special thanks are due to David Shanahan whose articles on the history of the area have fascinated me.

That’s a man I’d like to raise a beverage with and pick his brain.

Keep up the good work.

Rob Wheelhouse

Dear Editor, Re: “CAPP in hand” September 21, 2023 David Shanihan’s opinion piece, “CAPP in hand” published on September 21, brought to mind the muchparaphrased quote, “You are entitled to your opinion, but you are not entitled to your own facts.” As a member of the Coalition Against the Proposed Prison (CAAP), I am very used to Mr. Shanahan’s hot and cold views on our efforts to stop the building of a prison in Kemptville. Usually, we don’t bother to challenge his rhetoric. However, his latest effort included such an egregiously false statement that a response is required.

His claim that we had made “loud and angry claims” from the time “the prison was announced that Council knew all about the plan and were parties to the project” is simply ludicrous; nothing could be further from the truth. We have consistently spoken of the

government’s failure to consult both with the local government and the residents of North Grenville. Ironically, Victor Lachance and I took that position in a NG Times podcast hosted by none other than Mr. Shanahan in March 2021. Mr. Shanahan also sat in on a virtual press conference hosted by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association in October 2021, where both Victor and I spoke of the provincial government’s failure to consult. Add to that the numerous other public statements and press releases where our position on the matter has been crystal clear. Any criticisms of North Grenville Council

have been focused only on its actions in the subsequent months and years following the announcement.

Mr. Shanahan, feel free to continue to run hot and cold, or even just frigid, but please deal in facts, not fiction.

Colleen Lynas, North Grenville

the north grenville

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MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

Phone:613 329 0209 Email: melissa@ngtimes.ca

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON OFFICE 613-215-0735 K0G 1J0 Production Editor production@ngtimes.ca Brandon Mayer 613-215-0735 editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

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Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League season windup

submitted by Joan Beauregard And just like that…the league season is over… well almost…

With a September of mostly cooperative weather, the Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League enjoyed our regular games, made a good showing at the Ottawa

Valley Gold Association Seniors Intersectionals, and held our League Championships. Then we wound it all up with a month-end Fun Game, season-end celebration. Our final event of the season is the Halloween tournament in October, with boasting rights for costumes, and one last lunch before we

started. On Day 2, everyone settled in quickly. Finally, the round was finished and everyone gathered on the deck to socialize, retell the best and worst, and celebrate. Our Champion this year is Donna Lush. Hers will be the first name on our beautiful new trophy;created for us by Maureen Fournier and her talented husband.

Our flight-winners are: 'A' Flight 1st Place - Cathy Maur and 2nd Place - Marg McCornock . 'B' Flight 1st Place - Karen Whiteman and 2nd Place - Heather Pitt . 'C' Flight 1st Place - Cheryle Canning and 2nd Place - Linda Thomson.

'D' Flight 1st Place - Sandy Ochoski and 2nd Place Daphne Stephenson.

For our End-of monthfun day and season wind up, the mood was high and the course rang with laughter.

all ghost away till opening day next spring.

The League championship saw twenty-six players vying for the big win. Warm, humid weather and heavy dew on the grass greeted us at tee-off, no counting on rolls for help. On the first day, nerves were high and everyone was excited to get

73’s win two of three game schedule

TNT explodes at will...Ty Whyte in jubilation with line mates Grady Logue and Ryan Rutley when he scored the game winner on Friday night against the Ottawa Junior Senators for a 4 to 2 victory.

by G.J. the sportsguy The Hawks from

Hawkesbury swooped into the 73’s barn for a Wednesday evening event that clipped their wings with a 6 to 2 loss as the Ty White and Matthew O’Doherty show was on exhibition.

Tic-tac-toe from Melvin up the wall to Bennett to find Matthew O’Dorherty cruising toward the blue paint to beat Dimitri Pelekos for Kemptville to draw first blood at 5:56. Hawkesbury evened it up when Aidan Stubbings with helpers from Fournier and Gelinas put it behind Jacob Biron at 6:13. Kemptville answered back as Bennett tape to tape unto Melvin’s stick, over to Matthew O’Dorherty to pull the trigger into the back of the net at 7:22 for his second of the night.

Kemptville opened the second with Thomas quarterbacked the PP with Trottier to set up Tyler Melvin PPG in the slot for the game winning goal at :34. At 11:41 Remi Gagne assisted by Minville with Billequey to put Hawkesbury within one.

Last twenty was the Ty

October 5, 2023

Whyte show as Moroz held the line to combine with Ty encroaching the crease at 13:19 for the insurance. Hawkesbury pulled Pelekos at 15:30 mark and Thomas from the trenches cleared to Montoni, penetrating the line across to Ty Whyte ENG into vacant space. The Hawks stopper back on the ice at 16:36 and then pulled their goalie again at 16:41 when McDougall combined with Ty Whyte ENG directed from own zone for his “hatty” into EN at 17:52. Hawkesbury back stop returned to full squad in attack mode at 17:52, but couldn’t dig themselves out of the hole.

Kemptville only outgunned Hawkesbury by 41 to 40 with ⅕ PP and opponent 0/3 to give them the victory.

The 73’s Coach thought they had a great offensive contest with an excellent PK effort. Goaltending was supreme when called on and they need to continue to improve on their play without the puck on their sticks.

Ottawa Junior Senators into town Friday evening for a rubber rematch to determine the winner after their preseason battles that left them with

one victory each and the 73’s showed their prowess for an affirmative result in the matchup.

Kozya up the wall to Trottier onto Parker Holmes' stick sitting in the rocking chair to slam it home past Hayden Duncan for his first goal of the season at 2:45 to put Kemptville on the board.

Ottawa countered on PP within a minute of the second when Ben Albright PPG with helpers from Barney and Dagenais put it by Jacob Biron at :39 to even it at one. Junior Senators broke the tie at 5:34 as MacCallum and Dagenais caught Jack Knox to tip it up and over. Shaw transitioned to Whyte at the side of the net, threading it through to Grady Logue on the doorstep to pull the trigger at 6:46.

Game winner for Kemptville at 11:30 in the last twenty as Haughian straddled the line to Logue unto Ty Whyte perched on the hash mark to bury it deep. Ottawa pulled their stopper for extra attacker at 18:27 which was defused when they received an infraction at 19:09. Junior Senators removed their goalie again at 19:27 and the 73’s capitalized

6

on it with an insurance goal at 11:37, when Trottier reversed to Fennell on the point to Tyler Melvin ENG to direct it between the pins for a two marker lead.

Kemptville spent the majority of the game in Ottawa’s end, shooting them 37 to 24 with ½ PP and Junior Senators 1/1 PP. The boys of winter motored up the valley to face the Pembroke Lumber Kings for a Sunday evening event that resulted in a back and forth contest that had to be decided with SO win for Pembroke.

Kemptville magic came out hot as Rutley was on the hunt with Logue to set up Ty Whyte in the slot to beat Kevin Jones for his 7th of the season at just :07 on the clock. Pembroke countered at 5:23 when Ryan Parent with assists from Hayes and Dinis put the disc behind Braxton Bennett for a tie. Andrew Schmit with helpers from Barnard and Dinis for the tie breaker at 13:03 for Lumber Kings lead.

The 73’s with a man advantage in the second came on strong as Fennell transitioned to Trottier up the wall to find Nicholas Bennett PPG on his horse to hammer the rubber home at 10:59 to even it up again. Kemptville moved ahead when Thomas mounted an attack with Whyte, back to Tyler Moroz on the point to launch a howitzer top shelf at 12:05.

Pembroke bounced back at 17:07 when Charlie Blewett assisted from McKee with Tsoar at 17:07 to even it at three.

Andrew Schmit with helpers from Hayes and Dinis posted his second in the last twenty miler to move Lumber Kings ahead by one at 2:35 to give them a 4 to 3 advantage.

Kemptville forced OT when Logue with Moroz combined

Play was followed by lunch, awards, prizes, and many thank-you’s to the Executive Committee which worked tirelessly to make our league fun and successful. Winners for the day were: 1st place: Front – Cecile Fortier; and Back – Jenny Thibert. Closest to the Pin: Front- Kelly Bakker; and Back – Nancy Curtis. Longest Drive: Front - Lynne Ferguson; and Back – Karen Whiteman. Closest to the target: Front – Margaret Chiakowski; and Back – Leslie Cheal.

Recognition for League members who made birdies this month goes to: Kelly Bakker, Leslie Cheal, Kathryn Etmanski, Maureen Fournier, Laurie Howard, Sheri Krofp, Donna Lush, Cathy Maur, and Heather Pitt. Ringer Board winners for this season were: 1st Place – Lorraine Dejong-

Ellard; 2nd Place – Cheryle Canning; and Low Net – Donna Lush.

The League would like to acknowledge the support of Rideau Glen Golf Course for making us welcome and ensuring that every game day went off without hitches.

We would like to thank our prize sponsors: B&H, Nakhon Thai, Salamanders, Iron Forge Merrickville, Main Street Clothing Winchester, Rideau Auctions, Sugold Jewellers, Brigadoon, Kandy Golf Nova Scotia, Long Reach Restaurant, Loughlins, and Rideau Glen Golf Course. And last but not least, thank you to all the members for your friendship, genial competition, and fun!

to Ty Whyte for his second at 17:42.

The OT remained scoreless with Kemptville outgunning their opponents 5 to 1.

SO win from Andrew Schmit awarded the Lumber Kings the decision with 5 - 4 victory.

Kemptville outshot Pembroke by 40 to 30 with ⅓ PP to 0/4.

Friday night the 73’s meet the Canadians of Carleton Place on their home ice.

Hockey with EDGE…see you around the boards.

#2

Patrick Haughian Nickname: “Patty" Born: 2003-05-08 Carp, Ontario Home Town: Stittsville, Ontario Position: Defense Previous Hockey Club: Kemptville 73’s Hockey Hero: Sidney Crosby Most Inspiring Person: Terry Fox Favourite TV Show: South Park Favourite Musician: Drake Favourite Food: Egg Rolls Favourite Hockey Moments: Playing in Midget Provincials/ winning Midget League Championship One word that describes me: Smart

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TRUE STORIES - An evening of Life Stories and Live Music

submitted by ABOP Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey right in the heart of our beloved community as ten local authors join forces with nine talented musicians for a mesmerizing evening of storytelling and live instrumental music. This is an event that promises to

draw our community closer together, inviting all of us to Winchester's historic Old Town Hall for a night of shared experiences and unforgettable entertainment.

Imagine the warmth of our community enveloping you as you settle into the cozy embrace of the Old Town Hall, surrounded by

friends and family. Here, your neighbours will open their hearts and share tales that have remained hidden, even from their closest confidants. But what makes this evening truly exceptional is the enchanting fusion of these narratives with soulstirring instrumentals. Feel the emotions swell as a guitar strums in perfect harmony with a pivotal moment in someone's life. Let the ascending notes of a piano transport you into a world of suspense, and allow a ukulele to heighten your anticipation. It's as if the authors are inviting you to peek through an open window into their own unique journeys, sharing their experiences and inner reflections.

This extraordinary eve-

ning will be a tapestry woven from threads of bravery, triumph, laughter, and wisdom, all sourced from the lives of your fellow community members. The settings vary from an old general store, a Tibetan border town, the confines of a claustrophobic tent, and so many more!

You'll find yourself utterly captivated as these locals take centre stage, regaling you with stories that have the power to change lives and, on occasion, leave you in fits of laughter.

But it's not just an evening of entertainment; it's an opportunity to make a positive impact on our community. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to a worthy cause, the House of Lazarus.

Meet Councillor Doreen O'Sullivan

by Marguerite Boyer I had a chance to sit down with yet another Councillor, to become acquainted with them and see what drives them to serve our community.

This will have been my third interview, and my plan is to meet with all five.

Doreen O'Sullivan is an interesting person. It seemed to me that she appeared out of the blue six years ago when she ran for a seat on Council, and this was mainly because she had moved here in 2011 and was still working full time as a registered nurse in Ottawa.

She and her husband Anthony chose North Grenville because Doreen was familiar with the area; as she told me: “My parents owned a general store in Metcalfe.

My grandparents lived in Kemptville in the 1950's and my parents retired here in the 1970's. My October 5, 2023

daughter and her family moved here in 2009 and so we decided to move here in 2011 as our place to eventually retire”.

Doreen still worked full time as a Registered Nurse in Ottawa until 2016 after which she retired and worked part time in Kemptville. She then went back to The Ottawa Hospital part time in Primary Care in 2018.

And during COVID, she worked at vaccination clinics locally.

She fully believes that where a person lives determines whether or not one has a healthy lifestyle.

And this is her motivation.

How many of us have benefitted from the walking trails? Well, Doreen has also been part of that initiative in the community.

“Prior to running for election, I was part of the Trails Committee (now known as the Active Transportation Advisory Committee) and was the driving force in getting

the Municipality to acquire the lands from CP Rail that has now been developed into the Rail Trail from Bedell Road to CR 19.”

If you have never walked or biked down them, I urge to do so today. They are lovely and scenic walks, parts sheltered overhead by the many trees along the way, and the scenery changing often.

“This is my community where my daughter and grandchildren also live, attend school and play sports. I want it to continue to be the best place to live.”

Doreen began attending Council meetings when issues arose in her neighbourhood off Wellington Road. Among many of her activities before running for election to Council was lobbying to have walking trails put in, and also having the stop sign put up at Ryan's Well Drive, going into the Colonnade Mall.

It was not easy to achieve these goals when facing the council of the day and not happy with the response she was getting from the previous council, Doreen was encouraged to run for Council herself. After attending these meetings she felt that, surely, she could do as well as the incumbents, and felt she wanted to make some changes. After being encouraged by a Councillor, the late Jim Bertram, she made the plunge and has had no regrets since. On the whole, she feels that the community is going in the right direction; according to the experts, our commu-

7

nity is one of the leading municipalities in Ontario.

Doreen is a very physically active person. She bikes everywhere whenever she can or walks. She has traveled the world, and even worked while traveling. While in New Zealand, she obtained her New Zealand Nursing License and worked at New Zealand Blood Services part- time for 10 months and became known as “the nurse with the accent!”

It is clear that she is high energy.

After suffering a heart attack during the last election campaign, she refused to give up and kept in the race. “After my heart attack, I knew that I had to balance things a little more and decided to retire from my nursing job after 50 years!” She has recovered fully since then and keeps herself fit, having joined up with a personal fitness trainer.

Now in her seventies, she is probably more active and vocal than many of the rest of us. She has a passion for this community she calls home and is committed to making it a better place. She ran for a second term because she feels she has more to accomplish, and has more energy than ever before to get the job done. Her priorities include acquiring a Primary Care Multidisciplinary Health Unit in Kemptville with Nurse Practitioners and RNs, seeing the AM Barr Arena and stables be developed into a centre for Eastern Ontario Western Equine Training and Events, and having the unused rail line to Prescott developed to connect North Grenville

So, come on down and join us for an unforgettable night of community, connection, and inspiration. It's an event you won't want to miss, an event that celebrates the vibrant tapestry of our local talent, and an event that reminds us all of the power of storytelling to bring us closer together. We can't wait to share this incredible experience with you!

Starring (in no particular order): Louise Kelly, Murray Barkley, Marion Voytinski, Paul Stockton, Daphne Evans, Patrick Burger, Gabrielle Thomas, Harmony Koiter, Sylvia Smith, and Richard Zandbergen.

Instrumentals by: Tony Glen, Rick Ventrella, Gary Pelow, Sandra McNeill, Jean-Pierre Leduc, Lauren

Casselman, Tom Henbest, Patrick Clark, and Scott Arena.

Directed by Harmony Koiter and Amanda Burger All profit from this event goes to the House of Lazarus.

Tickets: $15 ($10 for those under 18 years of age) To book, call: 613 3465064 or email: abunchofpeopleartsandevents@ gmail.com Two shows: Friday, Oct. 13 @ 7:00 pm and Saturday, Oct. 14 @2:00 pm.

Winchester’s Old Town Hall.

to the Waterfront Trail along the St Lawrence River. Imagine if we had a river to river connection for cycling!

I admire her passion for what she does and her open honesty and willingness to discuss topics.

Doreen is bubbly, full of life and passion. I admire her for leading such an active life and for taking on the responsibility of a Councillor. It is not always an easy life but, on the whole, she says that most people are great to deal with, with very few negative people. There are always solutions to everything, if one just sits

down and has open and honest discussion.

yART SALE!

Sunday, Oct. 15 9am-4pm Masonic Hall 311 Van Buren St. Kemptville Jim Moran & Gary Blake We are purging our inventories Offering most pieces for $5 to $20

Beat the Fall rush, call for a quote

THOMAS M. BYRNE Barrister and Solicitor

General Practice Corporate / Commercial Family Law Estates Real Estate Wills & Powers of Attorney tom@tmblaw.ca 613.258.1277 222 Prescott St., Kemptville

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"Honour our Veterans Banner Program" Resident shares concerns about water softener scam

by Brandon Mayer An area local is becoming increasingly annoyed by dishonest business practices, citing a recent water softener sales pitch that left him anything but sold.

“It starts off with a call that they’re surveying water quality, then you will get a call saying you won a gift certificate for participating,” said the concerned resident.

“They need to deliver it, and it goes on. The red flags started to pop up like no business card, no product details…and to get huge discounts and gifts, you must sign today.”

Sales is a difficult business, one that was once regarded almost as an artform. In psychology studies, students are taught some of the most common sales techniques to demonstrate how psychological trickery is actually used in day-today life. Terms such as “foot in the door” and “door in the face” have their roots in door-to-door sales practices, but are now regarded as “persuasion techniques” in the teaching of certain schools of psychology.

One important question that consumers can ask themselves when faced with pushy salespeople is “why the need for trickery?” We don’t need sales people to convince us to buy groceries or clothes. There is no need for pushy tactics when someone is in the market for a new car or a truck or boat.

We don’t require someone to convince us or swindle us into buying or renting a home. People are perfectly capable of purchasing things

when they need things. The introduction of trickery makes it almost too obvious that the product or service being sold is not needed or of little value.

Well over a decade ago, I was briefly employed as a door-to-door salesperson selling security systems. It was a reputable company, but there was still nothing even remotely sensible about expecting homeowners to commit to a big life decision and a 3 month contract after having their dinner unexpectedly interrupted by an unwelcome stranger.

People simply don’t buy things spontaneously over the phone or at the door anymore. We are smarter as consumers.

The next time you get one of those cards in your mailbox, or a call on your phone about “water solutions” (or air duct cleaning, or car detailing) that seems to be overly pushy and rife with “trickery”, don’t forget to ask “why?” If this was really something you wanted or needed after all, would they really need to convince you to buy it? The prevention of scams begins with a well-informed consumer, armed with common sense.

the honouree, their families or neighbours.

Each Veteran, their families and/or sponsors were photographed beside their respective banners as a keepsake of the event. While waiting their turn, the attendees enjoyed light refreshments and the good company that Legion Halls are known for.

by Roy Brown During the afternoon of Sunday, October 3, 2023, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 212 Kemptville held a Banner Unveiling Ceremony in the Veterans Memorial Hall for the 2023 edition of the Honour Our Veterans Banner Program.

This is the first year that banners will be raised in North Grenville by way of a partnership involving the Municipality of North Grenville, Branch 212 Kemptville and the North Grenville Historical Society. However, the individual banners are financially sponsored by

The Banner Committee members were extremely pleased in having Mayor Nancy Peckford and Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan at the event, who addressed the gathering concerning the importance of remembering the sacrifices of our Veterans.

The Honour Our Veterans Banners will be flown from light stan-

dards along Prescott Street in close proximity to the Kemptville Cenotaph from mid October until the week following our annual Remembrance Day Service.

The next Banner Campaign will commence in May of 2024 for those who may have missed this year’s application deadline

MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

Phone:613 329 0209 Email: melissa@ngtimes.ca

Beef Supper - Eat In Or Take Out Saturday, October 21, 2023 Seatings at 4:30 pm & 5:45 pm Or Take Out

at St. Andrew’s United Church, Bishops Mills

Serving: Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Corn, Baked Beans, Turnip, Coleslaw, Roll and Apple or Pumpkin Pie

Advance Tickets ONLY - $25.00 each Order tickets before October 18th by calling 613-258-4695

October 5, 2023

8

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The Voice of North Grenville

Insight on a mysterious CP Rail incident horn at the crossing, and so I made half a guess that something had happened and turned on the [railway scanner] radio,” said Craig.

“The train – number 119, the evening intermodal out of Montreal – had stopped after going into emergency braking for unspecified reasons. There was a bit of chit-chat between crew members as they checked out the train, and some conversation with rail traffic control as well. Whatever the cause, the train was back on its way westward in about half an hour, and so the issues couldn't have been anything beyond something mechanical.”

Craig confirmed that the 119 Montreal-Edmonton intermodal is a daily train that runs through North Grenville almost always after dark, except on the longest days of the year when it can be seen at dusk.

He also pointed out that the CP Rail spokesperson was not being misleading by declaring that there was no incident on September 23.

“I suspect that the company defines an ‘incident’ as one that is serious in nature involving injury and/ or damage,” added Craig.

The Canadian Pacific Railway 119 Montreal-Edmonton intermodal freight train on July 7, 2022. Photo by Craig Stevenson.

by Brandon Mayer An incident or not an incident? That was the question being asked by many residents in the area of the Townline Road Canadian Pacific Railway crossing, southeast of Kemptville, after a train in the area seemed to generate an unusual amount of noise and rumbling.

The incident in question happened on the evening of September 23, when one resident posted on social media that she and her husband are accustomed to the noises of trains near their home, but

that they had heard a train making far more noise than usual.

Other social media users reported such anomalies as “a loud bang”, “shaking and screeching”, and “lots of grinding noises”. Some residents in the town of Kemptville about 3km away also reported feeling a rumble. “That was loud!” one resident wrote.

There was certainly no train collision or derailment, despite some rumours quickly surfacing online. A spokesperson for the Canadian Pacific Railway was able to quickly confirm that “There are no reports of train incidents in

the area of Townline Road or [North] Grenville” for the evening in question.

True train “incidents” are relatively rare, and it’s clear that whatever happened on September 23 was not worthy of an incident report, but something must have happened if so many people heard and felt the commotion, right?

Craig Stevenson, a Kemptville rail enthusiast who has a deep knowledge of railroad operations, confirmed that he too noticed something on the Saturday night in question. “I did hear the rumbling late in the evening, shortly after hearing the train sound its

Share the road.

Be patient.

Pass safely.

“Stopping on account of a mechanical issue might not meet that criteria.”

Thankfully, the train got rolling again quickly, allowing cars to pass over blocked crossing areas again. Area residents can rest assured that everything continues to run smoothly on the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Winchester Subdivision.

Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

Darren Dwyer

Certified utility arborist

DWYER

Tree Service

613.531.1544

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House For Sale Right in Kemptville at 37 Somerville

On the hill a VERY private large lot 1.7 acres half a block from the Creek You can park your motorhome, race car trailer, backhoe, dump trailer, boats, 4 wheelers and still have room for a Jag of visitors to the pool.

AND a 24 X 30 garage with 10 foot ceiling and 9 foot wide doors, heated, insulated and 100 amp panel.

OH it comes with a high ranch bungalow. $699,000

Call 6137389391 or 6136921407(afternoons) email rpmhouston@rogers.com

ROAD SAFETY in NORTH GRENVILLE

A message brought to you by:

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#RoadSafetyNG October 5, 2023

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OPP officer shares crime prevention tips

In response to a story published last issue in the North Dundas Times, OPP Sgt. Aaron Miller reached out in the hopes of providing some advice that can minimize the amount of crime – particularly property crime – in the local area.

“There are some simple ways to help prevent high value vehicle thefts,” said Sgt. Miller.

He pointed out that the simple act of locking the doors on one’s car or home can help prevent thefts. Many people don’t bother doing this because they think “if a person really wanted to steal something from my car, they would just break the window”. However, in Sgt. Miller’s experience, a thief may simply go from car to car, searching for unlocked doors. It doesn’t take long to try a car door to check if it’s locked, and if even one in every ten cars has unlocked doors, valuables can be easily stolen in a short span of time.

“If they can get a pair of sunglasses or a phone or a wallet out of the unlocked vehicle, they’re not going to want to bother breaking into the locked vehicle,” Sgt. Miller said.

Another tip that Sgt. Miller added is to invest in surveillance technology. He pointed out that while there is certainly a cost for security cameras, doorbell cameras, and other such technology, the cost is now often much less than it used to be as technology evolves.

Some people even use a simple trail cam as a surveillance camera.

Nothing excuses the perpetrators of property crime, and Sgt. Miller October 5, 2023

was very clear that his crime prevention tips are not meant to blame the victims in problematic areas such as Chesterville. Those who commit crimes are ultimately responsible for their actions and must be held accountable. But if simple tips can help prevent victimization, why not implement them for one’s own sake?

Something that Sgt. Miller believes that some people don’t realize is that the OPP wants to hear about every crime.

“We need folks to come forward and tell us what’s happening in the neighbourhood,” he said.

“Then we can look at proactive patrols and things like that.”

Sgt. Miller discussed with the Times an example of a situation involving the theft of $20 sunglasses. The victim of this crime may believe that it would be a waste of police time to report it due to the relatively low value of the item stolen, but this is not the case.

A theft of $20 sunglasses from one vehicle may have preceded or followed the theft of other items on the same day or in the same week. It is also possible that the theft is not the worst crime that the perpetrator committed during a broader incident, and evidence from a small theft can help provide valuable leads.

“Maybe that’s the piece of the puzzle we’re missing,” said Sgt. Miller. “Maybe that suspect has just been involved in a more serious occurrence elsewhere, and maybe they needed cash or a debit card or credit card.” The evidence from a seemingly small crime could very well help to catch a criminal who has committed more serious crimes elsewhere.

One final, simple tip from Sgt. Miller: know how to report a non-emergency crime. The correct phone number to report a non-urgent crime such as a property crime is 1-888310-1122. As always, for life threatening situations, call 9-1-1. We urge everyone to be vigilant and stay safe.

STINSON, W. Allan

In Memory of Rosemary Faye Dolan

June 5, 1924 - September 22, 2023

March 13, 1955, to October 8, 2019

Allan passed away peacefully at Carleton Lodge on Friday September 22, 2023 in his 100th year. Beloved husband of Lois Graham (deceased) and father of Lynne (Tom Mills), Ron (Joyce Buckley), Judy (Brian Williams), Barry, Terry (Nancy Lewis). A private family service will be held at a later date.

I Remember Everything The first words you spoke to me Our first kiss in front of the old fridge its embers still burn deep in my heart When you said I DO on my BD Oct 9, 76 in the rain, the sleet, and the snow The incredible moments we shared with friends both near and far The side-splitting stories you told about me Our little sanctuaries - the back of big Blue, the rocks at Alex Bay NY, our front porch, that sheltered us from the realities of life Your little black dress that teased my senses Most of all I remember my Rose, the special angel God reserved just for me Always in my Heart, Jim

Condolences/Tributes Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435

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613-215-0735

Devine, Graham Eric December 26, 1961 – September 22, 2023

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Graham Devine after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Graham passed away peacefully at home in Kemptville with his family by his side on September 22, 2023 in his 62nd year.

He is deeply missed by his loving wife and best friend Trudy (née Boucher) and his cherished son Kenneth. Graham is the beloved son of James and Alexandra Devine of Ottawa, and dear brother to Karen Craven (James) of Ottawa and Janet Devine (Peter Oulton) of Kanata. He is lovingly remembered by his parents-in-law Elmer and June Boucher of Dunrobin and the Boucher family.

Graham enjoyed a long career in the local high-tech industry, specializing in electronic computer-aided design, most notably with Ross Video and Infinera Canada. He completed many home renovation projects, working with meticulous care to produce top-quality results with his own special flair for design.

Graham was also a talented artist who enjoyed drawing with pen and pencil.

Graham’s pride and joy was his family; his most cherished job title was “Dad”. His most treasured experiences involved being with his son Kenneth, watching him learn and grow. He thoroughly enjoyed his time as a volunteer hockey trainer, being behind the bench in support of his son and his teammates.

We wish to thank the many organizations that provided compassionate care and support to Graham and his family during his cancer fight: The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Dr. Asmis), Winchester District Memorial Hospital, Home and Community Care Support Services Champlain, Rideau Palliative Group (Dr. Burns), Bayshore HealthCare (his wonderful nurses Georgie and Trish) and Beth Donovan Hospice.

A private family celebration of Graham’s life will take place at a later date. In Memoriam donations to the charity of your choice are gratefully appreciated.

Lois Elaine Smith (Nee Frost) February 28, 1936 – September 29, 2023

Lois Elaine Smith went home to join her Lord and Saviour at Southbridge, Kemptville on Friday September 29, 2023 at the age of 87.

Lois was born to Norman and Florence Frost in 1936 in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Lois met her husband George in Oakville, Ontario in 1953 and they married September 25th, 1954 and had 3 children; Wayne (Diana), Gregg (Suzan) and Donna (James). She is greatly loved by her grandchildren Derek (Kim), Stephen (Cathy), Shannon (Shannon), Leigh (Rob) and great grandchildren Vanessa and Peyton, Aaron and Nathan and Aray and Ryder. Also beloved mother to Brian Walker (Connie).

Lois was an active member of the Kemptville Christian Reformed Church for over 50 years and was often behind the piano and teaching Vacation Bible School.

Lois will rest at the Byers Funeral Home, 2990 Church Street, South Mountain (613-989-3836) from 7 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, October 5, 2023. A Viewing will be held at the Kemptville Christian Reformed Church 2455 County Road 18, on Friday October 6, 2023 from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 11:45 a.m. Interment South Gower Cemetery.

The Smith Family welcome any and all stories, photos and memories that you would like to share. They can be sent to Donna at Smithmich6758@gmail.com Donations to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or Parkinson Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.com

AL'S CLEAN-UP

SERVICES

10

Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435

Complete Property Clean-Up • • • • • •

One time, weekly or monthly basis Maintenance Tree Trimming or Removal Pressure washing decks, siding, etc..

Out Bulilding -Garage clean up

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Learn to Curl at NGCC

Bishop’s Mills Women involved hosts Beading Workshop

Registration is open for the 2023 fall program – Fun for all ages and abilities!

Sundays from 2 to 4pm October 22 through March 17 For the low cost of $555, you get: Experienced coaches Eight weeks of instructional training Twelve weeks of curling A gripper and a slider

Hurry hard and register now at www.ngcurling.ca Questions?

Email NGCC at ngcurlingclub@gmail.com

submitted by Jeanne Lambert The Women Involved in the community of Bishop’s Mills hosted Patsea Griffin from the Thunderbird Sisters Collective on September 14. Seventeen women spent the evening learning about beading from Griffin. The BMWI organized this event as a positive local action step and doing our part in reconciliation as recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada to address the legacy of residential schools. Members and many guests worked on individual projects including beaded pins with designs of orange T- shirts, strawberries and the red dress.

Ms. Griffin shared information about the history of her family which includes many Voyageurs and Métis relations. A Citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Patsea learned beading the traditional way by watching her mother. She shared some of her knowledge at the workshop and every participant went away with a beaded pin (though many participants still had more beads to add as the process cannot be rushed!).

The meeting was followed by light refreshments provided by members of the WI. The group plans to host Griffin again to host a workshop to make porcupine quill earrings.

Ron's

Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720

ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)

These Bishop’s Mills Women, along with their neighbours and friends, continue to work together and make a positive difference in the community.

Plans for the next meeting are in the works.

For information about attending local meetings, please contact Jeanne Lambert at jeanne.lambert828@gmail.com or send a message through our Facebook page.

The Bishop’s Mills Women Involved group has been around since 1985, sharing stories and building community. The Bishop’s Mills WI holds monthly meetings and welcomes new members interested in meeting their neighbours and getting involved in their community.

October 5, 2023

do not get infected from a horse or another human).

The mosquitoes that carry the virus are usually found close to flooded woodlands.

Over the years, there have been three human cases of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) in Ontario. Although rare, it can cause a serious neurological disease in all age groups, even death.

While a vaccine against EEEV exists for horses, there is none for humans; therefore, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is issuing a reminder

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit can help you to ensure that the well water you and your family drink is safe.

At the start of fall, getting your well water tested for bacteria is recommended and it is free. Runoff from heavy rain over the summer may affect the safety of your drinking water. Bacteria in your well water may not affect the taste or smell of your water. Testing your well water is the only way to know for sure if your drinking water is safe to consume or if it is contaminated with bacteria and requires some actions to protect the health of your family. The Health Unit recommends that you test your well water at least three times a year.

Visit the “Drinking Water” section of our website (https://healthunit.org/) for information including: - where you can pick up and drop off your free water bottle samples, - a water health factsheet, - how to take a sample info and video, and - how to disinfect your well (if required).

For more information or to speak to a health inspector about interpreting your results, call 1-800-660-5853 or connect with @LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

Kemptville District Hospital Foundation Community BBQ

If you are interested in finding out more about the larger scope of WI, see the Provincial organization’s website: North Grenville Mayor Peckford and son with the blue www.fwio.on.ca.

Camaro at the KDHF Community BBQ.

Two more horses in LGL confirmed to have EEEV submitted by Susan Healey The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit has been notified by Public Health Ontario that two additional horses in Lanark County have tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV).

EEEV is normally found in wild birds but can occasionally spread to horses and humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Similar to West Nile Virus, humans get infected with EEEV through the bite of an infected mosquito (humans

Well water health submitted by LGLD Health Unit

to everyone to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Ottawa and Kawartha Lakes have also seen cases of EEE in horses over the past few months so we encourage everyone across the region to protect yourself and your family against mosquito bites.

To help protect yourself and your family, please take the following steps: - Apply insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, making sure to follow label directions. You can also ask a pharmacist for help when 11

Parked on the front lawn of the Hospital, the blue Camaro was the featured “guest” at the Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) Foundation Community BBQ on Sept. 23, 2023. It was the first day of autumn, a beautiful sunny day! Attendees were welcome to

sit in the car, take selfies and buy a ticket to win the car and support the campaign to bring a CT Scanner to KDH. Free hotdogs and cake were provided from the Foundation to thank the community for its support of KDH. Many children enjoyed the face painting

selecting an insect repellent.

- Wear light-coloured clothing, long sleeves, pants and socks when outside.

- Avoid being outside at dusk and dawn, as mosquitoes are the most active at that time.

- Ensure that all containers in or around the yard such as tires, pool covers, sau-

cers for flowerpots, wading pools and children’s toys are regularly emptied of standing water.

- Ensure that screens, windows and doors are fully sealed to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house.

For more information about eastern equine en-

and fun swag bags. Annie’s Lemonade generously donated its proceeds to the fundraising event and O’Dell Associates Inc. gave out free frozen treats. Live and recorded music by J.A.M. Productions was greatly appreciated by all the guests.

J.A.M. announced that it will soon release a CD featuring local musicians, with proceeds going to the KDH CT Scanner.

The CT Scanner is a vital diagnostic tool which will bring better patient care, faster care and closer to home care. We need to raise $2.2M. Your local hospital needs YOU to help bring the CT Scanner to Kemptville.

The draw for the Grand Prize will be on October 26.

Buy your ticket today!

cephalitis virus, visit Insect Bites and Diseases – Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit or call 1-800-660-5853. You can also follow LGLhealthunit on social media for important updates.

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ssifieds@ngtimes.ca The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

CLASSIFIEDS classifieds@ngtimes.ca FOR SALE CR AFSTMAN scnowblower used, runs like new. $400 cash only.

C a l l D o u g 613 - 2 5 8 4573 Cash paid for old fishing lures and tackle.

Contact Albert 613 5524076 H A LLOW EEN B LOW UPS. I am selling all my hall owe e n d e c o rations.There are 8 -9 very unique large blow ups along with more decorations, please call 613-215-0884 Ve r i to n e m a n o d o l i n, $375 or best offer. Call 613-567-8533

CROSSWORD

613-215-0735

also welcome. Contact bbilmer01@gmail. com

FOR RENT Room for an individual on the second floor of a 2-storey house in Oxford Mills. Includes a private washroom, a small amount of storage, parking and all utilities for $800/month Available October 1st. stoth@ihsa.ca

WANTED Used license plates wanted 613 302 6288

TV Stand, walker, exercise bike. Contact Terry @ 613-294-2590

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

Mens Ten Speed Bike for sale, gently used and in great condition. $50.00 firm. Send email t o f r a s e r r j 6 7 0 410 @ gmail.com

Experienced+local farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house.

Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com.

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

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops.

Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

GARAGE SALE Sept 28 &29. 9am-3pm.

457 Gladstone St, Winchester.

Household items, collectables, rain barrel, toys and Christmas items yART Sale , Sunday, Oct. 15 9am-4pm. Masonic Hall, 311 Van Buren St. Kemptville. Jim Moran & Gary Blake.

We are purging our inventories.

Offering most pieces for $5 to $20

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

ACROSS 1. Dry riverbed 5. At the peak of 9. Queue 13. Gulf port 14. Majestic 16. Environs 17. Impetuous 18. Add up 19. Three-handed card game 20. Attempts 22. Seashores 24. Food 26. Thin person 27. Not less than 30. Deservedly acquired 33. Cantata 35. Genders 37. Thick flat pad 38. Clutch 41. Type of cereal grass

42. Stairs 45. Capable of mistakes 48. Newspaper bigwig 51. Taoist principle 52. Countdown clock 54. Storage site 55. Combining different philosophies 59. Triangular formation 62. Winnie the ____ 63. Reverent 65. Bloody 66. Celtic language 67. Debate 68. Chills and fever 69. Exploit 70. T T T 71. Strong cleaners DOWN 1. Verruca 2. Jewish month 3. Earmarked

4. Get by a will 5. Paintings 6. Earl Grey and orange pekoe 7. Looks at lustfully 8. Castle 9. Baked Italian dish 10. Bothers 11. Uncluttered 12. Consumes food 15. Elastic fabric 21. Japanese wrestler 23. Paddles 25. Town 27. Mothers 28. Angered 29. Soviet space station 31. Astrobiology 32. Trades 34. Buffoon 36. Flower stalk 39. Unhappy 40. Not minus 43. Peddled 44. Arouse 46. Deposited 47. Criminal 49. Alpha's opposite 50. Comeback 53. Chain of hills 55. Didn't dillydally 56. Bygone era 57. Beak 58. Hint 60. Not false 61. Affirmatives 64. "I agree"

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Dry firewood for sale $110 a cord plus delivery fee.

Call or text Jon 613-2273650

Easy

MISCELLANEOUS

Medium

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 Seeking video footage of Reach For The Top/School Reach games involving Tagwi Secondary School.

From 1974 through 2019. Happy to convert old formats. CBC Ottawa destroyed all their old footage, so I am hoping there may be some in old boxes and basements out there somewhere.

Other Reach paraphernalia

October 5, 2023

Hard

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Solution to last week’s Crossword

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COMMUNITY EVENTS RECURRING EVENTS

Unsung sentinels of home healthcare

British author and playMonthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus wright B.G. Stern wrote, at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Sup- “Silent gratitude isn’t much pers will be held on the last Thursday of the month use to anyone.” It’s aprocommencing September 28. Cost $10 per adult, $5 pos for home healthcare for children under 12 and $25 for families. workers, who have been PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed present- acknowledged as essential, ers are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third but that’s where the apWednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian preciation seems to stop.

Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact Personal support workers at n.g.probus97@gmail.com (PSWs) as they are called in Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Canada, Home Health Aides Everyone Welcome (HHAs) or other titles in the BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays US, don’t get the spotlight of the month, doors open at noon as do doctors, nurses and NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van other specialists. And they Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday certainly don’t get the pay. afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are Yet, in the vast realm welcome. Info call 613-795-7155 of healthcare, there exists EUCHRE on Tuesday, October 17, 31, November 14, this group of workers who 28, and December 12 at Pierce's Corners, also known quietly care for the most as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce vulnerable – the elderly, Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts disabled, sufferers of chronic at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, contact disease, and people with debiar@ymail.com health issues who can live BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, October 10, 24, November at home or in long-term care 7, 21, December 5, and 19 at Pierce's Corners, also but only with assistance. The known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 profile of these workers can Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and vary from well-trained and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, experienced caregivers to contact debiar@ymail.com family members, including KLUB 67 EUCHRE Join us for fun, social euchre aging seniors and young games taking place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday children. monthly at 1pm, September to May. Location: KempA typical PSW might tville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone be a retired woman, workwelcome, $5. To play, cash prizes.

Friendship Lunch every Friday at St. Johns United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. starting Oct. 6 th . The meal begins at 11:30 and is free of charge. A good will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.

UPCOMING EVENTS FISH FRY October 21:St. Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall, 319 Prescott Street, Kemptville, 4:30 - 7:30 PM. Eat in or Take Out. Tickets: $20.00 for adults, $15.00 for children 12 and under. For tickets or details: leslie@claxondirect.com or call 613-258-0384.

WIZARD CARD GAME TOURNAMENT on Sunday, October 22 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at noon and play starts at 12:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

Comedy Date Night hosted by NGCF. Saturday October 28 @ 6pm, at WB George Centre Campus Drive. Details at www.NGCF.ca/events

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October 5, 2023

o Fo an n F llo d ac w u In eb s st o ag ok ra m

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The Voice of North Grenville

ing in the industry out of the goodness of her heart and a need for the income.

She is fatigued but stoic.

Another common profile is the Filipina overseas healthcare worker who has left her country and her family to earn more abroad than she can do at home. She is professional and in demand.

Some PSWs are part-time workers, hired by healthcare staffing agencies that offer flexible employment. They have the luck of the draw.

Trends show people are needing more and more care.

As the baby boomers age, you can bet your heartbeat that there will be a further surge. Some of the trouble could have been avoided.

Over the past half century, North Americans should have heeded warnings about smoking, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and other lifestyle-related factors that cause obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

But prevention has not been a priority. Now there are not enough trained home care providers to manage

the need.

Wages of home healthcare workers are low despite the demanding nature of the job. This leads to high turnover, demotivation, and a necessity to work multiple jobs or long hours. Some may lack access to comprehensive benefits, such as extended healthcare coverage or retirement plans.

Challenges in their workplaces are legendary. PSWs may work in long-term care facilities where staffing shortages are frequently acute. In private homes, PSWs need to navigate the rules set by employers for safe and suitable conditions while confronting the reality of whatever they encounter.

In these precarious settings, they provide intimate and often emotionally taxing care, assisting with tasks like bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility. They witness the suffering of patients and their families dealing with end-of-life situations. No wonder the job leads to compassion fatigue, burnout, and mental health issues.

All of these problems amount to another sad reality in the industry. When high numbers of home healthcare workers are absent or unable to perform their

work, the quality of care plummets for individuals in assisted care facilities and homecare settings alike.

Stand-in caregivers from employment agencies may be technically competent, but the disruption in work and the lack of familiarity with patients compromises health outcomes.

Given that so many people are destined to need personal healthcare support at some point, it’s surprising that more is not done to shift from silent gratitude to more proactive measures. Investing more in PSWs would be a smart move, as they help prevent falls, infections, and other serious and costly crises.

As it stands, when the time comes, a life-ending heart attack or stroke might be the best of luck. For the rest, it’s time to start thinking about what kind of care you want for a longer, slower decline.

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Tid bit musings

Historically Speaking

by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW October or Thanksgiving is the noted time to count your blessings. Mind you, if we make it a daily practice to be thankful and grateful, life will be that much more revitalizing. It doesn't have to be a huge thing because even the mundane is something that someone else is deprived of. The practice should be totally thankful or appreciative, not just the expression of a passing thought. What are you truly thankful for? Have you ever shared with someone that you are thankful for their friendship and support?

When life is full of burdens and challenges, it is easy to slip into negativity and demoralizing patterns.

Take a deep breath to cleanse your soul before relaxing to sweat the great stuff. Medical ills deplete the body physically and psychologically, but can provide a grounding for future thought processes. Many never had the chance to wake up today. Having your vision allows you to have a colour hue that those who are visually impaired since birth don't have. Acknowledge where the changes have been without belittling the experience. It is real to you and real for you.

Life gives us curve balls all the time. Your ability to roll with the flow makes being appreciative easier.

Welcome to being human.

Being able to deal with constructive criticism helps fashion a new template and a much improved game plan. Name it and claim it. Each day, try to express thanks to someone for a service they provided, including holding a door open. Greet others with a smile for you have no idea of what struggles they are facing. Today is all that you have to make a difference in someone's life. That someone begins with you. Be thankful for the sights and sounds round about you. Each journey starts with a single footstep - let yours count.

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submitted by Donna Ross, MDHS Lecture Series Coordinator The Merrickville and District Historical Society ever-popular Lecture Series continues in October.

Please join us on Tuesday, October 31, at 7 pm at the Merrickville Legion for an illustrated talk, “Rebuilding the Gates on the Rideau Canal” by award-winning journalist, writer and photographer Bruce Kemp.

Have you ever wondered how the lock gates on the Rideau Canal between Kingston and Ottawa work?

How do they continue to operate as old as they are?

Who are the men and women who fix the aging timbers and mechanics?

Learn all this and more through a photographer’s eye and journalist’s reporting on how and why the timber locks, designed by Colonel John By and installed on the Rideau Canal almost 200 years ago, are still with us today. See Parks Canada craftspeople working in the Rideau Canal’s Smiths Falls Gate Shop do their best to work with the same level of skill and historic precision as their predecessors.

The presenter, Bruce Kemp, a writer and photographer, has covered everything from fine dining in Europe to the America’s Cup and voyages through the Northwest Passage. He has shared his expertise in writing and photography for more than 20 years teaching at various colleges and schools in Ontario and BC. Bruce lives in Merrickville with his wife, author Laurie Carter, and their cat Lew. We look forward to seeing you on October 31.

Come to learn and listen to an expert and enjoy a tasty Halloween sweet treat, compliments of Violets on Main Bakery!

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The North Grenville Times

Young men, middle aged and old men too: The Kemptville Male Choir needs you - now!!

The Weather with Connor

featuring Connor Mockett Hello, everyone! Welcome back to another week of �e Weather with Connor.

It’s been very quiet in the world of weather around these parts. �ere hasn’t really been anything going on since the August 10th flooding event in Ottawa. No real storm chases since I saw the Findlay Creek tornado on August 3rd. �is leaves me with not a whole lot to talk about, so I’ve decided I’ll talk about a little last minute adventure I went on last Sunday evening (and night).

I spent last Sunday, September 24th doing what Sundays are made for: nothing!

I hung around at home with my wonderful girlfriend all day long as she did her college homework, preparing for an upcoming exam that she had (she passed!). �e day goes by and gets into the evening, and then I get a message on my phone from one of my chase partners, Tom. He’s wondering if there’s anyone going out that night to catch some Northern Lights!

The Kemptville Male Choir in 2018.

by John Baldwin Christmas is coming and we are concerned with that, For we are looking for new members, to help us raise our singing hat.

We are about fifteen, not so young men, who just love to sing, And combine all our voices, Tenors, Baritone and Bass, to do our musical thing!

Many of us have done this, quite well, for many a fleeting year, And our deep rich harmony has brought joy, to many a listening ear.

We go out and we sing at Seniors’ retirement homes, churches and all sorts of events, And have even sung at a Plowing Match, under a marquee type tent!

Such is our amateur prowess, skill, adaptability and individuality We’ve even sung in three languages, to celebrate an anniversary of our municipality We are not professional singers, most can’t pick out, to sing, individual notes, from a scale, But the sound when we listen and then sing, just becomes perfection when we set out, our listeners, to regale.

We sing for the love of it and want this pleasure to continue, Which is why we are making this genuine open appeal, to you.

We are not a church choir, who solely religious songs do sing, We have a wide repertoire and sing all different kinds of musical thing.

Folk, pop and other well-known songs, just show us the score, We’ll practice and sing it until our sound is just right, and when it is, our audiences definitely call out for more.

So, if you already are a singer, or one who just sings in the bath, Come and join us for we are also well known for having fun and also a good laugh.

You too would be welcomed, in answer to our request, This we say out loudly and definitely not in jest!

For our numbers are dwindling drastically and need to be replenished, Which, we hope that you will do, once you have read this and finished.

Don’t be shy just give us a call, and search us out on our own web-site, We practice in St John’s United Church , Kemptville, 7-9 pm each Tuesday night, From Ottawa we are due south on the Prince of Wales Drive, or the 416, your choice by car, There are members, who travel from Smiths Falls, and Russell, who don’t think that it’s too far.

If you would like a preview of the things that we do, Then come to one of our practices, or one of our upcoming performances, we’d certainly like to meet up with you.

Thank you from the members of the Kemptville Male Choir.

KMC Contacts John Baldwin 613-258-0835 Chris Morgan 613-258-7559

This spot is about 45 minutes west of Perth. It’s completely pitch black, making Aurora visibility fantastic. We were just outside the small town of Arden, Ontario, right on the shore of Big Clear Lake. We set up our cameras on our tripod, and waited for the show to start at about 9:15 It took about 25 minutes after setup before Aurora started to show up on the cameras during a long exposure. Pretty green Aurora was there, with a little bit of pink right above it. After another about 10-15 minutes, the Aurora glow on the horizon was clearly visible to the naked eye, and you could see the light pillars dancing across the sky as well. It was the most beautiful Aurora show I’ve seen in my life so far. It’s a lot of fun to shoot photos of it, even though you’re really just standing there pressing a button on your camera. Minimal effort, maximum excitement adventure!

We stuck around until about 11:00 pm. �e show started to really dwindle down at about 10:30 pm, with just a minimal green Aurora on camera and no longer visible to the naked eye. With nothing to photograph since early August, that Sunday night was a breath of fresh air (figuratively and literally).

The Food Corner

By Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Our family has always been fond of mushrooms. There is a wide variety of them and one of our favourites is the Cremini or Baby Bella mushrooms. This recipe for stuffing them and baking them provides a tasty treat at any time of the year.

Stuffed Cremini Mushrooms

Ingredients • Eight Cremini mushrooms, stems removed (only wash if need be) • 1 pound of sausage meat (your choice of flavour; Andouille is very nice) • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 1 tablespoon of crushed garlic • ½ cup of the grated cheese of your choice (I recommend old cheddar) • 2 tablespoons of butter • A shake of Worcestershire sauce • 1 teaspoon of black pepper • Grated Parmesan cheese as a topping Preparation 1. Heat your oven to 350 F 2. Lightly fry the mushrooms in the butter, cap side down 3. In a separate pan, sweat the onion and garlic 4. Add the sausage meat to your onions and garlic 5. Add the pepper and Worcestershire sauce 6. Remove the mushrooms and line them up in an oven proof pan (glass preferably) 7. Stuff the mushrooms with the meat, onion and garlic mixture 8. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle with the grated cheese 9. Return to the oven and bake till the cheese has melted 10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with some Parmesan cheese You will wish to serve these warm right away as a great opening to any meal.

Cremini mushrooms are readily available as are all of the other ingredients. You can be creative with the taste you want by varying the flavour of the sausage and of the cheese.

For vegetarians, simply chop up the stems to replace the bacon and season accordingly.

Please stay in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

Phone:613 329 0209 Email: melissa@ngtimes.ca October 5, 2023

I actually hadn’t been paying attention to any Aurora forecasts, I had no idea this Aurora storm was even happening until he mentioned it in a group chat. Seeing that it was already 5:30 pm and the spot we were going to is 3 hours away so we can get out of the light pollution of the Ottawa area, I thought in my head “nah, not tonight”, mostly because we both had to be up at 6:00 am on Monday morning.

With that said, you’d think I wouldn’t go out super late at night, right? Well, you see, that’s where you’re wrong.

I quickly reversed course, because the last big Northern Lights event was clouded over, and I desperately wanted to see them again after almost a year of not seeing them. Zoe and I hopped in the car super fast, and started our way over to the spot for our Aurora viewing pleasure in the complete darkness without any light pollution around, other than that big white thing in the sky called the Moon.

Along the way, we stopped in Perth to fill up my vehicle with some gas, and also met up with Tom, so the three of us could experience the show together. �is was actually my first time going to this spot, so I followed behind Tom on the highway until we made it to our location.

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Fire Prevention Week is here!

Fire Prevention Week is upon us once again, and this year’s theme is “Cooking safety starts with YOU – Pay attention for fire prevention!”

On Thursday, September 28, residents were encouraged to test their smoke alarms as part of the new “Saved by the Beep” campaign. It’s never a bad time to test your alarms. Press the “test” button – alarms should make a loud beeping sound while the button is pressed.

If you don’t hear a sound, replace the batteries or the smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Every home in Ontario is required by law to have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, install working smoke alarms in every bedroom.

To stay fire safe: - Test all smoke alarms at least once a month.

- Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, and whenever the low-battery warning chirps.

- Remember smoke alarms don't last forever; replace them every 10 years from the date of manufacture.

Are you a tenant? Your building owner is responsible for installing and maintaining working smoke alarms, but you are required by law to notify the building owner if your smoke alarm is disconnected, not operating, or the operation is impaired. It is against the law for tenants to remove the batteries or tamper with the alarm in any way.

With proper preparedness, you can help keep your family safe from fire.

In the event of a fire, you may have less than 60 seconds to escape danger safely. Having working smoke alarms is one of two steps you need to take to keep your family safe from fire. It’s also important to talk with all family members and guests about a home fire escape plan and practice it twice a year.

If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 911. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

For more information about Test Your Smoke Alarm Day, visit www.testyoursmokealarmday.ca.

Baldwin's Birds

A change of feathers

As well as a "hacking cough" this week, I have had my computer "hacked" too, so I am writing this courtesy of one of NGT's computers, whilst my own is being "cleaned"! Many thanks to them for allowing me to do this. Fortunately, for me, the birds don't get these interruptions to their daily lives, so I can still get some inspiration from them to write to you all about.

I was able to get a couple of pictures of a male Goldfinch who, despite our continuing beautiful sunny and warm weather, has already almost completed his autumn molt into his duller winter plumage.

Even so, he still makes a October 5, 2023

good picture to be enjoyed as does the Blue Jay who gratefully accepted the offering of water provided by my bird bath for that purpose.

He is still in his brilliant blue plumage, which the Blue Jay family don't seem to lose, even during the winter months. The other regulars to our feeders like the Rock Pigeons, Mourning Doves and Chickadees also tend to look the same, although they obviously do go through a slightly duller looking feather change; it isn't quite so obvious to us, but is to them and gives them a bit better form of concealment when the "white stuff" falls and they are fully exposed against the whiteness of it to their potential predators.

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

COOKING SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU T: 613.258.3282

2 - 4 Industrial Rd, Kemptville, South Gower Business Park

F: 613.258.4391

Kemptville Rotary Santa Claus Parade

Some of you may have been able to see some of these for yourselves recently at the bird of prey display held in the Ferguson Forest put on by the Friends of Ferguson Forest. It was a lovely display and it was pleasing to see many parents there with their kids getting a chance to see these birds first-hand. It was great to see!

The Canada Geese are now starting to appear in greater numbers, as they drop in to visit us en-route to their winter abodes "down south"! It will be a while yet before the waters get really cold, so all their landings will be smooth ones and not so tricky as their spring migration ones when the ice has to be negotiated. I hope that you get to see some as they come to our smaller waterways, and enjoy watching them in their splendor, but please make sure that if you do go to see them, that you stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

Saturday November 18 at 4:30 pm

th

Register your parade entry now!

Also seeking barricade volunteers.

2023 Theme: Create Hope in the World

Information and registration at: northgrenville.ca/HoHoHo Club of Kemptville

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Roadside Swathings

the River Grape, though a few with larger fruit are hybrids with domesticated cousins from the southern species. Our Bittersweet, Celastrus scandens, twists itself only a few metres up into bushes, and is conspicuous only as isolated clusters of bright orange fruit, while the invasive Asiatic Bittersweet, Celastrus orbiculatus, already established in Ottawa, strangles whole trees in states south of here.

If temperature and carbon dioxide are going to inevitably increase, we should expect vines to become more aggressive – either by the spread of alien or southern forms or species, or by selection or growth responses in our native forms, as the River Grapes seem already to have done.

"Grape vines (Vitis riparia) swathing Buckthorn and going up an Elm tree along CR 18 west of Kemptville."

by Fred Schueler, Fragile Inheritance Natural History The trick in documenting ecological change is to anticipate what’s going to change before it begins to change. When we moved to Grenville County in 1978, we casually noticed that while grapes were common, they didn’t seem to go very aggressively up into the trees, but now it seems that a third of the roadside bushes and trees are swathed in cascades of autumn-golden grape foliage.

At the time, we supposed that it was cold winter temperatures that kept most of the grape vines down on bushes where they’d be covered with snow in the winter, but as concern about climate change increased, it was noticed in tropical

forests that the growth of vines (called lianas) was enhanced by increased carbon dioxide concentrations, and now the google blurb on a search for this is “Climate change is postulated as an underlying driver of increasing liana abundances, via increases in dry-season length, forest-disturbance events, and atmospheric CO2 concentrations, all factors thought to favour lianas.”

Both of our other common woody vines have both ground-running and tree-climbing forms. The commoner form of Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus vitacea grows mainly on the ground or only climbs into trees and shrubs weakly, but the less common - more southern - P. quinquefolia has well developed sticky cups

at the ends of its multiforked tendrils, and can climb the trunks of trees up into the canopy. Here, Poison Ivy, Toxicodendron radicans var. rydbergii, is rarely more than a ground cover, and it’s only along Pepperville Road, 3.1 km NNW of South Mountain, that we’ve seen it running 5 m up a Hydro pole with tree-like branches draped with berries, as the southern form, T. radicans var. negundo, does.

There are a dozen species of wild grapes in the eastern States, but ours are all Vitis riparia,

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