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January 25, 2024

Vol. 12 No. 3

A man who left a legacy

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Ken and Dianna relaxing at Finnerty’s Auction in 2013. [Photo by Mike Pacitto]

by David Shanahan Very few people have had the kind of impact on their community that Ken Finnerty had. Perhaps only the father and son combination of Charles and G. Howard Ferguson can be said to have served their friends and neighbours over such a long period of time. With Ken’s death on January 14, it is no cliché to say that an era came to an end.

The Finnerty family played a prominent role in the political and economic life of this community for more than sixty years.

Ken’s father, William Harold Finnerty, was an auctioneer, beginning in the business in the early 1940's. What is now the Clothier Inn in Kemptville was for a long time known as the Finnerty Block, and was the centre of W.H. Finnerty’s business activity.

But, years after his father had sold the auctioneering business, Ken was encouraged to run one or two smallscale auctions in Kemptville, and everything grew from there. It was obviously in the blood of the Finnerty’s. But not everyone is as successful in that business as Ken and wife Dianna were. Working

together over these decades, they took care to always maintain a strong work ethic, and equally firm ethical standards in their dealings with the public.

But, aside from the family business, Ken served in the political sphere also, for a combined twenty-two years, both on the Kemptville Town Council, and later that of North Grenville. He was Reeve of Kemptville and Deputy Mayor of North Grenville. In 1995, he was Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

As with his business, Ken carried on a tradition of service that started with his

father, W. H. Finnerty, who was Reeve of Kemptville for seven years, and Warden of the United Counties in 1954. That’s quite a record of service for one family.

Finnerty senior was largely responsible for providing Kemptville with its water system for every home, replacing the old pumps. Ken was there when the pipes were laid, and for decades afterwards was the man to go to when municipal workers needed to find those pipes for repairs. He was often the only one who knew where they were! continued on page 2

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Town of Kemptville Council 1986 to 1988, Ken Finnerty’s first Council.

Seated: (left to right): Reeve Pat Maloney, Mayor Ralph Raina, Deputy Reeve Howard Wilson Standing: (left to right): Councillor Ken Finnerty, Councillor Gary Tysik, Councillor Harry Van Allen, Councillor Ambrose Etmanskie, Clerk Mel McIntyre Ken’s deep and lasting legacy to this community is known to many of his friends and neighbours, and Mayor Peckford pays tribute to it elsewhere in this issue. His friends knew him as a good and honest man, fun to be with, serious about his work

and his political life. The Kemptville Snowmobile Klub was one of the community groups grateful to Ken for his interest and support.

People often wondered why Ken stayed involved on Council for so many years: the answer may simply be

TODAY.

that it was part of his makeup, a duty he saw and lived for his community. A record of service that will live as the legacy of a man, of whom, as the saying goes, we shall not see his like again.

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KYMTC's Matilda wins 14 awards

by Barbara Lacelle North Grenville’s own Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company (KYMTC) has won 14 awards in the BroadwayWorld regional awards for Ottawa for their production of Matilda. KYMTC was nominated in 14 categories and won all of them. KYMTC would like to thank all of our supporters in North Grenville and Eastern Ontario.

BroadwayWorld is a theatre news website based in New York City with over 6 million readers. The website publishes theatre news, interviews, reviews, and other coverage related to theatre productions on Broadway, off Broadway, regionally and internationally.

In 2020, KYMTC was nominated for the first time for its production of Newsies winning Best Ensemble, Best Lighting and Best Scenic Design.

The 2023 Regional Awards honour regional productions, touring shows, and more which had their first performance between October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023.

KYMTC won Best Musical, Best Ensemble, Best Dance Production, Best Theatre For Young Audiences Production, and Favorite Local Theatre. Also, congratulations go to Laura Anderson for Best Choreography Of A Play Or Musical, Carolyn Bruce for Best Costume Design Of A Play Or Musical, Barbara Lacelle for Best Direction Of A Musical, Kevin Colwell and Lucas Colwell for Best Lighting Design Of A Play Or Musical, Phillip Konopka for Best Music Direction & Orchestra Performance, Rylie Hillier for Best Performer In A Musical, Nathalie Petherick for Best Supporting Performer In A Musical, Bonnie Selleck for Best Scenic Design Of A Play Or Musical, and Peter Miller for Best Sound Design Of A Play Or Musical.

KYMTC is now working hard on our next production. The Little Mermaid is coming to Kemptville April 13 - 28 at the Urbandale Arts Centre. Tickets go on sale February 5 and are available through our website and at Brewed Awakenings. For more information, check out our website at www.kymtc.org. and our Facebook page and Instagram.

January 25, 2024

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How to find the Times online

by Christine Boyer As many of you will know, Meta has blocked Canadian News on Facebook and Instagram because the Canadian government instructed them to share the advertising revenue that Meta earns from using content from Canadian news outlets.

The North Grenville Times wants readers to be able to choose how they read their news, so we need

to be more creative on how to make it accessible to our readers. Here are a few suggestions that will allow you to access The North Grenville Times online: Bookmark our website, www.ngtimes.ca, and come directly to the site. The weekly news is uploaded every Thursday by 5 pm.

We have started posting to Threads at www.threads. net/@ng_times. Although Threads is owned by Meta, it

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has not been blocked. Please visit and follow us.

You can follow us on Google News, please follow us there.

There are several RSS readers that can be downloaded at the app store. Our RSS feed is https://ngtimes. ca/category/news-articles/ feed.

The full paper in electronic format can be viewed by clicking on PRINT EDITION on the top menu bar of

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Sign up for our weekly newsletter at https://ngtimes. ca/subscriptions-2.

If any of our readers have any suggestions or ideas on best ways that the Times can spread trustworthy local news online, please contact us by sending an email to christine@ ngtimes.ca, or call the office at 613-215-0735.

It's happening! Come out for the Grand Opening Ceremony of Froid'Art--Art in Ice, an outdoor art show that truly embraces the wonder of winter here in Kemptville. The event will take place on Saturday, January 27, at 4:00 pm in Rotary Park.

Join us as we celebrate the inaugural installation of an exquisite display of paintings embedded in 300 lb blocks of ice, showcasing the talent and creativity of NGAG artists. The event promises to be a unique and enchanting experience that captures the magic of the season.

This event is made possible through the Municipality of North Grenville's Arts and Culture Development Fund and the generous sponsorship of the following local businesses: B&H Groceries, Salamanders, Grahame's Bakery, Jonsson’s Your Independent Grocer, Vrolyk Insurance, and Financial Services Limited, and the Municipality of North Grenville.

January 25, 2024

keeps children aged 7 to 12 active and helps balance & coordination, concentration, and self-discipline.

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Celebrating 10 years in business

Mayor Nancy Peckford on the passing of Ken Finnerty mation, Mr. Finnerty was elected to Council in 2003 and served eleven consecutive years on North G r e n v i l l e ’s C o u n c i l (2003 – 2013), serving his last term as Deputy Mayor.

During his time on Council, he was part of major public works infrastructure upgrades in the Municipality. In 2003, when Council was split 2-2, his was the deciding vote in favour of building the North Grenville Municipal Centre. He also played a significant role in the construction of the new North Grenville Public Library in downtown Kemptville.

Mr. Finnerty was well known in the community as a tireless auctioneer for Finnerty Auctions.

He also served as President of the Kemptville Snowmobile Klub from 1977 – 1991.

Recently, the Municipality celebrated its 25th Anniversary since amalgamation and though his health did not allow him to attend in person, he was certainly felt in spirit.

His name was sprinkled into many conversations and speeches throughout

On January 16,2024 around 3 p.m. I had a fall in my driveway off County Road 44. I had no idea how I was going to get up when it seemed like out of nowhere, I had guardian angels come to my rescue – a police officer, a firefighter and a good Samaritan. All three were able to get me back on my feet, after much coaxing, and help me into the house. I want to thank all three for coming to my rescue and being so kind and patient with me. Thank You so much from a very grateful Senior Citizen.

KARATE KIDS

North Grenville Arts Guild

On behalf of Council, municipal staff and the community, I would like to express our sincere and heartfelt condolences to family and dear friends on the passing of Mr. Ken Finnerty, long-serving Reeve of the Town of Kemptville, Councillor and Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of North Grenville. Mr. Finnerty passed away on January 14, 2024.

Mr. Finnerty was a pillar of this community and his loss will be felt by many. Though I did not have the honour of working with him personally - many who knew him well have spoken to me of his enormous impact on our community. His legacy continues today.

He was first elected as Councillor in 1985 and served until 1997.

From 1994 – 1997, he served as Reeve of the Town of Kemptville.

In 1995, Ken Finnerty was appointed Warden for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, an honour that his father held for exactly forty years prior to his appointment.

Following amalga-

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the course of the evening.

It was leaders like Ken and his colleagues of the day that brought the Town and Townships of Kemptville, South Gower and Oxford on Rideau together to create this diverse and special community we call home – we are forever in his debt and forever grateful.

North Grenville’s flags were lowered to half-mast in Mr. Finnerty’s honour.

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Editorial

The North Grenville Times

Eve of destruction

by David Shanahan

“Eastern world, it is exploding. Violence flaring, bullets loading...” Sounds far too contemporary, doesn’t it? But when P. F. Sloan wrote those lyrics (most famously sung by Barry McGuire), it was back in 1965 and it felt like the world was on the brink of catastrophe. Wars, rumours of wars, civil strife, all the issues we face in today’s world were there almost sixty years ago. Sometimes it can seem like things have never been as bad as they are today, but, sadly, history tells a different story.

By this time in the Twentieth Century, 1924, there had been quite a few wars; the “Great” one caused somewhere between 15 and 20 million deaths: precise numbers are impossible to know. There was the Spanish Influenza pandemic after that - another 50 million deaths and 20% of the world’s population infected.

Even after our own experience of COVID worldwide, these are numbers that are mind-boggling. And fascism had taken power in Italy under Mussolini in 1922, encouraging its appearance in Germany. And remember what came after 1924? The Great Depression, World

War II, the expansion of the Soviet empire. History hasn’t stopped since then either.

So, should we all calm down and accept that what we’re seeing is just one of those times in history when humanity is at its worst?

Nothing special to see here, get back to work? There’s certainly a tendency to overreact, panic even, as our comfort level is disturbed and equanimity shattered.

So, some perspective helps.

But this time, there is something different happening, a different context, one we should be genuinely concerned about.

Because now we have the ability to destroy everything with one wrong move by any one of a number of unbalanced actors. Moreover, we can now create an alternative reality: AI can allow individuals, and more importantly, rogue actors on a national level, to fool us into thinking a lie is the truth. Imagine Iran, North Korea, or especially Russia or the States, making us believe that their chosen enemy had launched an attack on them, requiring a response in force before there could be any hope of detecting the fraud.

We could see someone claiming to be a national

Crime is paying for the OPP

by David Shanahan Following the example of governments in other countries, the Province of Ontario is redistributing the confiscated wealth of criminals to support policing initiatives.

Since 2018, Ontario has acquired more than $16 million through confiscating the proceeds of criminal enterprises following the conviction of the criminals involved. The Grenville County OPP detachment will be receiving $600,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Front-Line Policing (POC-FLP) Grant program.

The funds will be used to increase training and equipment for the Fraud Team, a partnership of representatives from the Grenville, Leeds and Upper Ottawa Valley OPP detachments, the Municipality of North Grenville, schools, seniors’ organizations and the Financial Transactions and Reports and Analysis Centre of Canada.

“I want to thank the dedicated men and women of our local police services who keep our streets safe by seizing the cash and proceeds of crime that fuel criminal activity,” said Steve Clark, MPP. “It’s fitting that funds seized from criminals are being reinvested to do good in our community by supporting victims and educating youth to prevent them from embarking on a life of crime.”

The new funds were welcomed by Grenville County OPP Detachment Commander, Inspector Stephan Neufeld: “Public education is always the best tool to fight fraud.

Grants such as these will provide police the tools to prevent frauds, educate the public to reduce victimization and connect any victims with proper supports.”

To date, the POC-FLP Grant program has funded 281 community safety projects across the Province.

January 25, 2024

leader making such a statement. How would we know if it were true? Video of apparent massacres, unprovoked attacks, anything that would stir up an immediate and hasty response could be used to justify action.

And the groundwork has been laid for this kind of world over the past decade or more.

We have seen in our neighbour’s case that lies can be accepted as truth, in spite of evidence to the contrary. That whatever doesn’t suit someone’s ideological, political, religious, or other beliefs can be explained away as the result of a conspiracy. The very idea of the Deep State makes people doubt the truth of anything they don’t like. Trust in traditional sources of authority has been completely undermined and, as a result, democracy itself has been put in jeopardy.

Pretty depressing, isn’t it? As so often in human history, technological advances have been misused with seriously negative effects. The Internet, and most particularly the rise of social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter (now called “X”) have allowed unsubstantiated stories, radically anti-social ideas, and really outrageous conspiracy

theories to gain traction, to become acceptable and part of normal discourse in a way that was impossible before.

Personally, I don’t understand why people keep using platforms like these, knowing how much they have been contaminated and misused, not only by those using them, but even by the corporations behind them.

It’s nice to be able to keep in touch with friends and family online: but at what cost globally? How much power do Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have on world events, even beyond what a national government can hope to exercise? Not that governments are innocent in this either. Putin’s Russia, Iran’s Ayatollahs, Israel’s Mossad, and other actors can control what their people know and see. The possible return of Trump to the White House is rightly seen as an existential threat to democracy and possibly world peace. Because if he returns, the big winner, and future world power broker, will be Vladimir Putin.

Depressed yet? Don’t be too down. There is nothing new under the Sun, it just comes in different forms throughout history. This, too, shall pass, as we used to say about COVID, and we were (almost) right.

The Voice of North Grenville

TIMES www.ngtimes.ca ISSN 2291-0301

OFFICE 613-215-0735

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Reporter Editor Brandon Mayer David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca brandonn@gtimes.ca 613-215-0735 613-215-0735 Marketing/Sales Melissa Ottenhof marketing@ngtimes.ca 613 329 0209 Production production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735 Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca

Classifieds classifieds@ngtimes.ca And after WW2 came the United Nations, the European Union, national health systems, civil rights movements, feminism, and other advances.

Maybe, beyond the dangers talked about here, the

biggest one will be if we start looking for a great Leader to come and solve all the problems. We have created a mess, and we need to find a way to get through it. The lies will catch up with us some time.

Selected ServiceOntario outlets to be closed tario kiosks in their stores in place of the full offices. The Ford Government explains the move by claiming that it will “reduce the overall cost to deliver government services to the public.”

Ontario taxes will be used to refit those stores to house the new kiosks in the two American-owned company’s buildings. The deal with Staples was a sole-sourced one, in other words, no tender was issued for potential locations; Staples got the deal without competition. Furthermore, the kiosks in the Staple box stores will be staffed

by Staples employees, not the current staffers of the centres. Walmart’s two locations will retain the current workers. According to a report by CityNews, the owners of the ServiceOntario offices being closed were asked to sign non-

by David Shanahan This will sound very familiar to residents of North Grenville who remember the events of 2016 in Kemptville, when the Ontario (Liberal) Government announced that they were closing the local ServiceOntario office on the Kemptville Campus. Now, the Ontario (Conservative) Government has announced the closure of 11 ServiceOntario outlets across the Province, though thankfully, this does not include the Kemptville office.

However, the idea behind these latest closures is just as upsetting for residents of North Grenville, as taxpayers’ money will be used to subsidise those poor corporations, Staples and Walmart, who will be paid to have ServiceOn-

4

disclosure agreements, and none of the workers will be given severance payments.

The 11 centres to be closed are situated in Southern Ontario around the Toronto region.

This may come as an embarrassment to Steve Clark, M.P.P., who was so involved in the campaign to save the Kemptville OntarioService offices in 2016, when he strongly condemned the Liberals for doing what his own party is doing today. But that’s politics for you, I suppose. the north grenville

TIMES MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

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

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The North Grenville Times

Council update

by Brandon Mayer North Grenville Council met for a regularly scheduled meeting on January 17, but not before holding a public meeting with the purpose of giving local residents a chance to have their say on the 2024 municipal budget, which was the subject of a press release in last week’s issue of the Times. This was the first meeting to take place in the Council Chambers of the North Grenville Municipal Centre since the audio-visual upgrades were completed. Residents watching the live stream from home were therefore treated to a video of much higher quality than before, with close ups of those speaking, as well as presentation slides on screen.

Mayor Nancy Peckford opened the public meeting by confirming that Council has not yet had a chance to actively deliberate on the budget. A virtual meeting will take place on February 1 so that residents who cannot attend in person can still have their say on the budget, which Council hopes to pass some time in February.

Senior managers from each municipal department took turns presenting briefly on the budget outlook for their specific department.

Readers are encouraged to view the video of the meeting, or flip through the PowerPoint presentation for specific financial figures, as there is far too much to report succinctly in print.

As usual, the water and sewer budget for this year is separate from the Mu-

nicipality’s general budget, because the system operates in a self-sustaining capacity using user fees within the Kemptville urban area.

Sitting on either side of the Mayor in the usual Council seats were not members of Council at the budget meeting, but instead various directors and senior managers in attendance to answer questions. Members of Council (besides the Mayor, who was in her usual seat to chair the meeting) were seated in the audience, and were permitted to ask questions of municipal staff, much like any member of the public would. However, the Mayor cautioned Council members against stating an opinion on budget matters, since that must be saved for Council’s official deliberations.

Deputy Mayor John Barclay asked a few technical questions regarding where certain funding lines in the budget are coming from, and specifics of how funding will be allotted. Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan asked a question with a similar purpose, specifically regarding how the reserve fund is used.

No questions or comments from members of the public were put forward during the meeting.

Following an extended break, Council returned at 6:30 pm for its regularly scheduled Council meeting.

The meeting jumped right into business with a brief public meeting period to address a request for a minor zoning variance. A back and forth discussion took place regarding whether

an existing water well and septic system will support an additional large dwelling unit on the subject property.

The motion for the minor variance request was passed.

Following the end of the public meeting, Mayor Peckford covered some housekeeping points. Residents should note that the deadline to submit Civic Award nominations has been extended to February 5, as fewer application were received than normal. Other items from the Mayor included an update on the success of the new transit system and an acknowledgement that municipal staff are aware of some kinks that need working out, a word of thanks for municipal staff who dealt with two snowstorms back-to-back earlier this month, and a note of regret at the passing of former Town of Kemptville Councillor, Ken Finnerty.

The next item was a presentation from Amy Martin – the Municipality’s Director of Planning and Development – regarding a pre-servicing agreement for the next development phase of the eQuinelle subdivision. Council approved the pre-servicing agreement, which is required prior to a full subdivision agreement.

It allows for the installation of water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.

Director Martin then took the spotlight again to present a subdivision agreement for the proposed Oxford Village Subdivision. The particulars of the potential new subdivision were discussed including

the possibility of requiring the developer to install a safe multi-use pathway between the Subdivision and the town, but this would have had to be included in an earlier planning phase.

CAO Karen Dunlop added that this particular subdivision proposal has been “on the books” since 2017, so adding restrictive conditions now may not be appropriate.

Councillor O’Sullivan raised further concerns about the Municipality setting itself up to “play catch up” with transportation infrastructure, considering her belief that the current Council has had to do so since 2018. Ultimately, the motion for the subdivision agreement was passed with reassurance that development charges can be allocated to help ensure viable transportation options in the area in the future.

The final item of business was once again presented by Director Martin, this time regarding the Creek Subdivision. The motion was to lift part lot control for an additional year in the subdivision so that 72 townhouse units can be created.

The motion was passed, and the Council meeting ended efficiently at 7:40 pm.

Send in your letters, stories, events to editor@ndtimes.ca

www.northgrenville.ca What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

285 County Road 44, Kemptville Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca Need additional information? Visit us:

www.northgrenville.ca United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Public Works Division Consent Granting Authority Forestry Planning Roads

25 Central Ave. W., Suite 100 Brockville, ON K6V 4N6 T 613-342-3840 800-770-2170 TTY 800-539-8685 F 613-342-2101 www.leedsgrenville.com

NOTICE AGRICULTURAL NOTICE AREA REVIEW Local Area Consultation Meetings AGRICULTURAL AREA REVIEW Local Area Consultation Meetings

In 2022, the Counties initiated the Agricultural Area Review. The purpose of the In 2022, the Counties initiated the Agricultural Area Review. The purpose of the review is to review is to identify and confirm agricultural lands in the Counties. The final map of identify and confirm agricultural lands in the Counties. The final map of the agricultural area the agricultural area lands will be used to update the Counties Official Plan schedule lands will be used to update the Counties Official Plan schedule so that those lands are so that those lands are protected. The requirement to complete this study was protected. The requirement to complete this study was identified by the Province in the identifi ed by the Province in the Counties Official Plan. The project is nearing the Counties Official Plan. The project is nearing the final mapping stage. final mapping stage.

Prior to the formal public meeting, the following local area consultations are being held to review the recommended agricultural area system (mapping) proposed for the Counties Prior to the formal public meeting, the following local area consultations are being Official Plan. These meetings are primarily for those persons whose properties have been held to review recommended agricultural area with system proposed for impacted and whothe have not already discussed their property staff (mapping) and the consulting the team.Counties Official Plan. These meetings are primarily for those persons whose

properties have been impacted and who have not already discussed their property Tuesday, February 6, 2024 with staff and the consulting team.

Township of Augusta – 1:00 p.m. (Council Chambers, 3560 County Road 26)

Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal – 4:00 p.m. (Town Hall, 18 Centre St., Spencerville)

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Municipality of North Grenville – 7:00 p.m. (Meeting Room at Municipal Offices, 285 County Township of Augusta – 1:00 p.m. (Council Chambers, 3560 County Road 26) Road 44, Kemptville) Wednesday, February 7, 2024 Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal – 4:00 p.m. (Town Hall, 18 Centre St., Township of Rideau Lakes – 1:00 p.m. (Council Chambers, 1439 County Road 8) Spencerville)

Municipality of North Grenville – 7:00 p.m. (Meeting Room at Municipal Offices, To see if your property is impacted, visit www.leedsgrenville.com/agriculture.

285 County Road 44, Kemptville) Pre-registration would be appreciated to help us better serve you. To pre-register or to inquire about your property, please contact Elaine Mallory, Planner II, at 613-342-3840/ Wednesday, February 7, email 2024at elaine.mallory@uclg.on.ca.

800-770-2170, Ext. 2422 or by

Township of Rideau Lakes – 1:00 p.m. (Council Chambers, 1439 County Road 8) To learn more, contact Planning staff or visit www.leedsgrenville.com/agriculture.

To see if your property is impacted, visit www.leedsgrenville.com/agriculture.

Pre-registration would be appreciated to help us better serve you. To pre-register or to inquire about your property, please contact Elaine Mallory, Planner II, at 613342-3840/800-770-2170, Ext. 2422 or by email at elaine.mallory@uclg.on.ca.

To learn more, contact Planning staff or visit www.leedsgrenville.com/agriculture.

January 25, 2024

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The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

Op-ed

Banning books and burning books

by Marjorie Gann When I was 10 years old, I discovered Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel Little Women. From the very first line — “Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents” — I was hooked.

Never mind that my Jewish family didn’t celebrate Christmas. The world of the lively March sisters, who sang and sewed together at the family hearth, captivated me precisely because it was so different from my own.

Little did I know the “harm” it was causing. According to diversity bureaucrats in charge of libraries at Ontario’s second-largest school board, I should never have been allowed anywhere near my favourite book, because it says nothing about my own “lived experiences.”

Recently, the Mississauga, Ontario-based citizens’ group, Libraries Not Landfills, exposed an internal training document from the local Peel District School Board (PDSB) containing instructions for librarians on how to destroy the vast bulk of their book collections for ideological reasons.

Citing a need to “promote anti-racism, inclusivity and critical consciousness,” the document explains how to remove “any harmful, oppressive or colonial content.”

Most books published before 2008 had to go; children’s titles like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and even Anne Frank’s Diary of a Young Girl, were pulled off the shelves. Such books are rife with “explicit and implicit biases” that make them “inherently racist, classist, heteronormative, and/or sexist.” Books deemed harmful were to be destroyed in a “sustainable manner,” either shredded or landfilled. In an FAQ section, the document rationalized treating books as garbage by arguing that PDSB operates within a “white supremacist structure” and that these resources are to be weeded out as “not inclusive, culturally responsive or relevant.” Because of the harm they were causing, they could not be sold or donated.

News of the policy quickly created a media firestorm. One PDSB student

told the CBC that half of the books in her school’s library had disappeared over the summer, including such favourites as the Harry Potter and Hunger Games series.

“There were rows and rows of empty shelves with absolutely no books,” she said.

Public outrage followed.

Ontario’s Education Minister, Stephen Lecce, immediately condemned the removal of books as “offensive, illogical and counterintuitive.” PDSB leadership, caught in the act, claimed it was all a simple “miscommunication,” although it was obvious from the document that staff were simply following instructions from board administrators.

PDSB's deliberate policy of book destruction provides clear evidence of the dangers posed by handing administrative control of public institutions to anti-racist activists operating under the guise of promoting diversity, inclusion and equity.

This rejection of the pluralism and freedom of thought inherent to expansive library collections is unfortunately infecting other

components of the literary world as well, from book publishers to organizations that claim to defend Canadians’ freedom to read. Together with a group of other children’s book authors, I wrote to the Writer's Union of Canada, the Ontario Library Association and PEN Canada (a free expression lobby group) asking for their response to the PDSB book-burying scandal. Two offered only meek statements of indifference; PEN Canada never even bothered to respond.

As a former elementary school teacher, I have seen first-hand the wide diversity of Canadian children’s literature dating back decades.

Shizuye Takashima’s 1971 A Child in a Prison Camp, for example, recalls the author’s experience in an internment camp in the Second World War. Tanzanian-Canadian Tololwa M. Mollel’s gorgeous The Orphan Boy won the prestigious GovernorGeneral’s Literary Award for Illustration in 1990. There is no diversity problem in Canadian libraries that needs fixing.

Stay Safe this Winter

Follow these safety tips when approaching a snow plow:

The bureaucrats at PDSB attack timeless classics as “Euro-centric texts that were penned long before students’ birth dates, and may not reflect the lived experiences of students.” But as a teacher, I found that a classic of literature such as Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden had the power to shape all children’s young minds. In prose that inspires a sensitivity to the beauty of our language, the book showed my students how a simple Yorkshire cottage boy, Dickon, could transform two spoiled, upperclass English children with his simple, earthy values.

Similarly, Canadian author Joyce Barkhouse’s The Pit Pony paints a vivid picture of the dangerous working conditions of turn-of-the-20th-century Cape Breton coal miners, including child labourers.

Yes, Barkhouse’s characters are all white, but her book paints a vivid picture of an earlier Canada, allowing our youngest citizens, of whatever ethnic origin, to learn about our shared history and strengthening

Canadian identity in the next generation.

Insisting on “diversity” in each individual book, as the PDSB policy does, misses the larger picture: true diversity is achieved through a plurality of viewpoints, characters and stories within a library’s entire collection.

Well-written children’s books do not cause harm.

They entertain, illuminate, enlighten and educate. They carry the legacy of our culture, the history of our societies, and the seeds of our future growth. To inspire a lifelong love of reading, we need libraries with shelves sagging under the weight of their collections. The real harm lies in destroying books.

Marjorie Gann is a Senior Fellow with the Aristotle Foundation and author of Five Thousand Years of Slavery co-authored with Janet Willen. This column was adapted from the original full-length C2C Journal version.

Stay Back.

Be sure to leave enough space between you and the snow plow.

Slow Down.

Snow plows travel at a slower speed. Slow down and stay back.

Be Patient.

Crowding or passing a snow plow can be very dangerous.

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The North Grenville Times

Talk to your children about safety around ice

by Brandon Mayer A local resident did a good deed on January 13, and had a reminder in the process about the importance of safe behaviour around bodies of water, particularly in the winter months, and particularly for young children.

The Kemptville man wished to remain anonymous, but he shared his story with the Times. “This very minor incident only came about because I saw young kids tobogganing on a hill that ended on ice covered water, and I knew the ice was thin at the edges where the water was running,” the man said. “The wind blew their sled from the bottom of the hill onto the ice, and then blew it into the water, where it was carried downstream a little way and then got stuck on a rock. I could see the kids at the edge debating whether to go on the ice.”

The good Samaritan walked along partially submerged rocks in the shallow creek – which feeds the South Branch just north of Parkinson Street – and retrieved the child’s

sled. His large boots kept his feet dry until one foot slipped off a rock, causing water to fill his boot. After regaining his footing and carrying on, the man managed to retrieve the sled which was about 15 feet from shore.

The man has learned the hard way over the years about the dangers of open water. “Having fallen through the ice three times when I was younger, I am aware how cold the water is and how quickly it saps your strength,” he said.

“The danger is obvious: if a small kid had attempted this, they could have fallen into the water entirely, and had a much harder time regaining their feet. In the end, I would rather get my feet soaked than have a kid drown in cold water.”

The friendly neighbour considers it a blessing that he happened to be walking his dog at the time that he noticed the children missing their sled. He feels that any adult would have helped the same way, but that the situation demonstrates the importance of teaching children never to consider venturing out into water unsupervised, re-

gardless of the time of year, but certainly not when ice is involved. In this case, the children’s mother was aware of the situation and was there to help as well.

“She did say that the kids’ father had advised them to build a wall at the creek edge to prevent this scenario, but they had not,” the good Samaritan added.

In this snowy, chilly sledding season, parents should remind their children about the dangers of hills with water at the bottom. Parents may not give it a second thought when their children ask to go sledding around town with friends, so it makes sense to have this particular safety discussion as a precautionary measure.

According to the Life Saving Society of Canada, about 35% of all drownings in Ontario happen between October and April, when there is no intention of going swimming. This can occur when a person falls through ice, especially since cold water reduces a person’s ability to swim, and can cause rapid hypothermia leading to cardiac arrest.

The Society reminds

anyone engaging in winter sports on ice to be sure of the safety and thickness of the ice before venturing out. Local bait shop or resort owners can often provide this information. The Society also asserts that ice thickness and safety cannot be determined simply by looking at the ice, since there are many factors at play. If you do fall through the ice, you are advised to:

on the ice, don't stand up.

Roll away from the break until you're on solid ice.

Despite these guidelines, children and teens should be reminded never to play on or near ice or bodies of water for any reason, except when in the care of a responsible adult who has done due diligence on the safety of the situation.

1) Not panic - the clothes you're wearing will trap air and keep you buoyant.

2) Turn toward the direction you came from and place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface.

3) Kick your feet and try to push yourself forward on top of the unbroken ice on your stomach like a seal.

4) Once you are lying

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2023 CIVIC AWARDS Nominate your community heroes

Applications due Monday, February 5th Nominate your local hero in one of these Award Categories: • Arts and Culture • Agricultural Leadership • Exemplary Work in the Community • Environment

• Health and Wellness • Heritage • Recreation, Sport & Leisure • Seniors • Youth

northgrenville.ca/CivicAwards January 25, 2024

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defence of our BINGO at the Legion In forests and woodlots

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SALE OF LAND FOR TAX ARREARS BY PUBLIC TENDER Form 6 MUNICIPAL ACT, 2001 Ontario Regulation 181/03 Municipal Tax Sales Rules

by Marc Nadeau I occasionally drive along Somerville Road and my eyes are still not accustomed to the big block of cleared land that was, until recently, a vibrant forest. I feel compelled to do something to oppose or challenge the extensive land clearing that is occurring here in North Grenville and elsewhere.

I am troubled not only by the loss of the trees and habitat, but also by the ease with which this can be done. The land is sold and heavy equipment is brought in to make short order of the work.

Mechanization leaves little time for public discussion to consider other courses of action. It is a reflection of our economic priorities that such clearing is considered ‘land improvement’. We need to balance the benefits of forests with our incentives

CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH GRENVILLE TAKE NOTICE that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Municipal Office, Box 130, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville, Ontario K0G 1J0 The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day at 3:30 p.m.

Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.716.035.09901.0000 Known Municipally as: 842 County Road 44, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Minimum Tender Amount $398,946.34 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.716.040.20001.0000 Known Municipally as: 210 River View Lane, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Minimum Tender Amount $16,833.39 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.716.035.19303.0000 Known Municipally as: 1055 MacKenzie Road, Oxford Station, ON K0G 1T0 Minimum Tender Amount $84,481.40 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.716.020.12100.0000 Known Municipally as: 8 Water Street, Oxford Mills, ON K0G 1S0 Minimum Tender Amount $77,310.02 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.719.010.25200.0000 Known Municipally as: 239 Asa Street, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Minimum Tender Amount $89,292.00

Ontario Genealogical Society presentation

Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.719.015.20000.000 Known Municipally as: 205 Maley Street, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Minimum Tender Amount $20,816.74 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.719.015.30400.0000 Known Municipally as: 409 James Street, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Minimum Tender Amount $24,796.99 Description of Lands: Roll No. 07.19.716.035.16701.0000 Known Municipally as: 2111 Totem Ranch Road East, Oxford Station, ON K0G 1T0 Minimum Tender Amount $162,806.07

Leeds & Grenville Branch Join us on Monday, February 5, at 7:00 pm via Zoom for our first presentation of 2024! February is Black History Month, and we have scheduled a timely presentation. Author and speaker Jennifer de Bruin will provide a History of Slavery along the St. Lawrence River.

This presentation ex-

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. Further information regarding this sale is available online on the Municipality of North Grenville web site www.northgrenville.ca or you may contact: Karen Macpherson, Tax Collector, Corporation of the Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Road 44, P.O. Box 130 Kemptville, Ontario K0G 1J0 613-258-9569 x 104 January 25, 2024

to cut them down.

Forests and woodlots should be highly valued, given the benefits they offer. They provide a habitat for other animals and plants with whom we share our common space. Forests help retain and filter water, thus buffering floods and maintaining creek and river flow during droughts. There is also an increasing awareness of the psychological benefits of a walk in the woods.

It is ironic that some land is cleared of oxygen-producing and carbon-sequestering forests to grow corn that requires chemicals and fossil fuel to produce. One market for corn grown in this area is the ethanol plant in Johnstown. Ethanol is considered a biofuel, but an energy audit would shrink the “bio” term significantly.

This is an example of the conflict between economic

opportunity and environmental well-being.

In the case of the land adjoining Somerville Road, it has been cleared to build subdivisions. These neighbourhoods are car-dependent and do little to address the challenges of people who are without secure housing.

There is a conflict between building more houses to meet our growing population, and a desire to create sustainable and livable spaces. Accessible forest and woodlots play a role in improving our quality of life.

One only needs to consider the value that residents place on the Ferguson Forest Centre. Here, in North Grenville, preserving existing woodlots should be a priority and new neighbourhoods should be located on marginal lands whenever possible.

When I see the vacant land on Somerville Road, I feel powerless, as though there is nothing I can do but watch the loss of something I value. I have chosen not to remain silent, but rather to speak out. I encourage others who cherish forests to act as well. The simplest action is to share your opinion with those around you and with public officials. Instilling these values in your children will ensure that they will be good guardians of the environment. Plant a tree.

Explore the forests of our area – Limerick Forest and Ferguson Forest are fantastic spaces - and further your appreciation of their benefits.

Forests are too important for their fate to be left in the hands of those who see them as an obstacle to opportunity.

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plores the connection of this region to the history of slavery in North America.

While information on the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, and a brief history of slavery in Canada and the US will provide an understanding of the magnitude of this tragic institution, it most importantly gives a voice to those who were enslaved.

Together we’ll journey

through time to discover the harrowing experiences of the thousands of enslaved men, women and children who fought for freedom in the courts, fled from enslavement on the Underground Railroad (routes that crossed through Quebec/Eastern Ontario), and eventually settled in Ontario. An environment of learning and openness, this presentation provides an excellent opportunity to ask questions and get answers or more resources for learning.

To register for this presentation, visit our Branch website: leedsandgrenville. ogs.on.ca, for more details. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Kinny, Douglas Clayton Peacefully at the Perley Health on Saturday January 20, 2024. Doug Kinny age 82 of Kemptville. Beloved husband of Sharron (Nee Angus).

Loving Dad of Deborah Kinny (James Yake) and Barry (Marriam) Kinny.

Cherished Grandpa of Brennan Yake, Norah Kinny, Cameron Kinny, Lisa (Ben) Dunn and greatgrandchildren Ella and Cooper. Dear brother of Donna (Dale) Robinson, David (Shari) Kinny and predeceased by Janet (Doug), Sandra (Barry) and Allan Kinny. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, friends and the Angus Family. By Doug’s request there will be no funeral service. A get together will be held at the Kemptville Legion Branch # 212, 100 Reuben Street on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 2 to 4 p.m. By family request no flowers, donations may be made in Memory of Doug to The Dementia Society Ottawa.

Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836).

Online condolences may be made to www.byersfuneralhomeinc.com

Op-ed:

The Israel-Hamas war

by Steve Gabell Aristotle was one of the finest minds in all of human history, and it is galling that a foundation bearing his name should write such a one-sided, simplistic article (Are we beasts?: War, civilian casualties and Hamas, Jan 11). Saying simply that Hamas should not have attacked Israel if they did not want to be bombed fails to address the issue of why Hamas decided to attack (and we should be clear that seeking to understand the reasons behind an event is not the same as trying to justify that event).

Some may dismiss Hamas as murderous, anti-Semitic terrorists, yet Hamas did not appear out of a vacuum. We have to ask what conditions gave rise to Hamas and why they still have the support or acquiescence of some Gazans.

Since 1967, Israel has occupied the Palestinian territories of Gaza and the West Bank. Israel has faced widespread criticism for its treatment of Palestinians.

The actions of Israel have been likened to apartheidera South Africa by Israeli human rights organisations, by major international human rights bodies including the UN Special Rapporteur, by former senior Israeli politicians, and by some who lived under apartheid in South Africa, including Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Winnie MadikizelaMandela. Some have described the Gaza Strip as “the world’s largest open January 25, 2024

air prison” due to Israel’s land, sea, and air blockade ongoing since 2007. Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, and independent Arab news outlet Al Jazeera reports that prior to the current war, the unemployment rate was a staggering 45%, 64% of households were food insecure, 81% live in poverty, and 95% lack safe drinking water.

In their response to Hamas’ attack which killed 1,200 people, Israeli forces have so far killed almost 25,000 Palestinians, and wounded over 60,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Only a third of Gaza’s hospitals remain operational, while 85% of the population have left their homes and the UN reports that one in four Gazans is starving. This heavy-handed, indiscriminate response is only sowing the seeds for future rounds of violence and acting as a recruitment agent for Hamas and other extremist organisations.

The prospect of a better future is important for peaceful resolution of conflicts, yet this has been crushed in Gazans by 16 years of Israeli subjugation. Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu has also been supporting Hamas during his periods in power, encouraging Qatar to fund Hamas with the aim of preventing a two-state solution by weakening the Palestinian Authority.

Insurgent conflicts cannot be won in the same manner as conventional wars, as

Richard Winston Lennox

September 25 1943 - January 16 2024 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Winston Lennox in his 80th year, on Tuesday January 16 2024, with his family by his side.

Lovingly remembered and missed by his wife of 60 years Rotha Lennox. Loving father to Jackie (Steve) Agnew, James Lennox, Jeoff (Kim) Lennox, Jason (Samantha) Lennox. Cherished Grandfather to Andy (Vanessa) Kilby, Bree (Nick Jones) Kilby, Olivia Lennox, Thomas Lennox, Brittney Stuckless, Christina (Brandon) Jacques, Abigayle Lennox, Tristan Lennox, Brady Lennox, Grace Lennox, Kassidee (Devon) Burtch, Taylor Lennox, Lincoln Lennox. Great Grandpa to Lennox, Nash, Ben, Toby, Adriana, Hunter, and Oakley. Predeceased by his grandson Lucas Lennox, granddaughter Emily Agnew and his brother Paul Lennox. Survived by his sisters Mary and Debra. Richard is remembered as a kind, family man who loved his family, walking his trails at home, and spending time with his grandchildren. He had a wicked sense of humour that kept us laughing until the end. He loved working on cars and collecting his Ford car models. He loved feeding the birds and spending time with his wife Rotha. Friends may visit the Kemptville Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 805 Prescott Street, Kemptville on Saturday January 27, 2024, from 11am until a Memorial Service in the Chapel at 12 noon followed by a reception at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Care Ottawa.

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

The Voice of North Grenville

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

McMillan, Roy

Arthur Roy McMillan, of Hanover, passed away on Thursday, January 11th, 2024 in his 85th year. Beloved husband of Margaret (nee Hopkins). Loving father of Michael McMillan.

Grandfather of Aaron, Trisha, Rebecca, Jayden, and Sarah. Dear brother of Anne O’Brecht. Brother-in-law of Edward “Ted” and Nancy Hopkins, Ronald and Jean Hopkins, Robert “Bob” and Marilyn Hopkins, Deborah and Murray Thompson, and Richard “Rick” and Debby Hopkins. Predeceased by his sister Jean and his brothers Carl and Robert. Roy was a member of the “Five Furys” band out of Hanover from 1959 – 69.

Cremation has taken place. A come and go time of remembrance will be held in the spring. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations to a local charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to the McCullochWatson Funeral Home, Durham.

has been demonstrated in places such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Northern Ireland.

More moderate factions need to be engaged with, and grievances from both sides need to be heard and engaged with. The conflict in Northern Ireland did not end because the UK government had destroyed the IRA and UVF, it ended because all parties engaged in dialogue, grievances were addressed, and creative solutions were implemented.

Jewish people have faced persecution for at least 2,500 years, with the Holocaust being the most destructive episode. Israelis quite rightly want peace and security, but this cannot be achieved with subjugation and wholesale slaughter of civilians. Seeking vengeance and retribution is a natural human instinct when we’ve been hurt but is ultimately self destructive. To quote Martin Luther King, “The old law of an eye for an eye leaves everybody blind. It is immoral because it seeks to humiliate the opponent rather than win his understanding; it seeks to annihilate rather than to convert”.

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The Voice of North Grenville

The last enemy

by David Shanahan I am not getting older.

Unfortunately, my body is, much to my annoyance. I can’t run as fast as I could when I was younger. In fact, I’m not sure I can still run at all. An awareness of my mortality is a constant factor in my life, with every ache and pain, and with every new prescription my doctor writes for me. I am by no means alone in this experience, of course. We all, every one of us, either do, or will experience the same thing, though it is not something people like to talk about.

When you think about it, it is absolutely amazing how unwilling people generally are to think about, much less talk about death. It is the one great experience every single one of us have in common.

We use euphemisms: “passed away”, “departed”, “no longer with us” - anything rather than say “died”.

This can lead to funny situations, like in a movie I saw where a character refers to his dear departed wife.

When he’s asked, in solemn tones, “Is she dead?”,

his response is: “no, just departed”. Human beings have an astonishing ability to ignore something that they don’t want to acknowledge about themselves. But it is increasingly difficult in this connected world of ours to ignore the fact that people are dying every day, many in the most tragic ways: suicide bombers killing dozens, disease and hunger taking men, women and children without mercy.

Death is something that is a fact of life as we know it. Another quote from a movie: “Someone has died: that’s life!” Christians have an interesting attitude to death. On the one hand, Paul calls death “the last enemy” and Jesus wept over the death of his friend Lazarus. On the other hand, to fully quote Paul: “The last enemy to be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15.26). Perhaps we react so negatively to the idea of death because it is not “natural” in a way. Death was never meant to be part of the human experience, according to Christian teaching. It is a major effect of the Fall, something that

came into human experience through rebellion against God. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews says that one of the main results of the life and death of Jesus is that death itself has been conquered and the power of death over us has been broken. What does that mean?

Look at what the writer says: “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death - that is, the devil and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (Hebrews 2.14-15).

The fear of death has driven people to murder, war, hatred and, on a more mundane level, spending millions of dollars on health regimes, exercise machines and surgery. We are bombarded with advertisements for things that will make us look younger and feel younger. We want to deny that, not only are we ageing, but that we cannot, no matter what we do, escape the inevitability of death. The

fear of death, as the writer says, holds us in captivity.

I know that the popping of one little brain cell could kill me. The misbehaviour of a few cells can result in a fatal disease. We are surrounded by dangers and we cannot completely shield ourselves or our loved ones.

There are differing ways of responding. Ignore the whole thing and drift into death with eyes averted.

Others revolt in anger and, like Dylan Thomas, declare: “Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rage at close of day; rage, rage against the dying of the light”. Others accept the inevitable with resignation, believing that death is the end, so why fear nothingness?

Christians have a different attitude, one based on knowledge of what has happened in Christ: “He has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of

our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Timothy 1.910). Jesus conquered death for me when he died and rose again. Death is not the end, and the darkness holds no fear any longer for those who know him who came back in victory.

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die” (John 11.25-26). Do you believe this? I do. Here are great lyrics by Iris DeMent, to sum it up: “When my morning comes around, from a new cup I'll be drinking And for once I won't be thinking there's something wrong with me And I'll wake up and find that my faults have been forgiven Oh and that's when I'll start living, when my morning comes around”.

Amen.

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

Does your business go further than North Grenville?

Advertise in our sister paper The North Dundas Times!

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A new municipal-wide, on-demand transit launched on January 15th in North Grenville.

This will provide residents with an affordable public transit option. This service will be provided anywhere within North Grenville’s boundaries.

The Blaise app

January 25, 2024

The web at ride.blaisetransit.com

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Or by calling 613-368-5620

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by ABC Life Literacy Canada On January 27, 2024, families, libraries and literacy groups will host events across the country to celebrate 25 years of Family Literacy Day, an annual initiative that aims to encourage reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.

As an ode to the anniversary, this year’s theme is “Let’s have a family party!”, which encourages families to come together and celebrate by having a party. When it comes to having a party, the possibilities for learning are endless. From making food to singing songs and playing games together, there are many opportunities to improve your family’s literacy skills – and it’s fun when you do it together!

“Back in 1999, during the inaugural year of Family Literacy Day, we never could have imagined that 25 years later the initiative would have spread this far and wide. We thank everyone who has participated in Family Literacy Day over the years for helping spread awareness of the importance of family literacy,” says Alison Howard, Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada. “We’re encouraging families and groups across the country to help celebrate 25 years of Family Literacy Day by throwing a family party of their own.

Learning as a family not only helps to build strong literacy skills for both adults and children, but it also strengthens family bonds and ties.”

Award-winning Canadian author and modeling clay illustrator Barbara Reid is once again the Honorary Chair of Family Literacy Day. She will be hosting a virtual event for families across the country on January 25 that will include a demonstration on how to use clay to create a picture. Families and community organizations can register for the free event.

“I’m so thrilled to be partnering with ABC Life Literacy Canada again to celebrate 25 years of Family Literacy Day,” says Ms. Reid. “As an author, literacy is close to my heart, and I hope that by helping to promote this important initiative we can continue to celebrate another 25+ years of success.”

ABC Life Literacy Canada® is a non-profit organization that aims to strengthen organizations that promote adult learning by developing and supporting the use of high-quality introductory learning materials and resources written in clear language. We envision a Canada where everyone has the tools and opportunities they need to improve their literacy and essential skills. For more information on family literacy and ABC Life Literacy Canada’s programs, visit abclifeliteracy.ca.

Looking for Community Volunteers Hours?

South Gower Business Park We ’r e H e r e To S e r v e Yo u F: 613-258-0229

P: 613-258-0223

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"There is nothing like doing something for others, not just family and friends, to help us to live a more fulfilling and happy life. Contributing to your community in even the smallest way can mean everything for the relationships that you create just by showing that you care. Go ahead, do it for yourself!"

January 25, 2024

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Identifying health-related misinformation

by Danielle Labonte, Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit There are many things to look out for with healthrelated messaging and misinformation. Be aware of the use of “buzzwords” that lack a clear definition - words like toxins, cleansing, inflammation, immunity, clean eating, and comparing “chemicals” to “natural”. Often, we hear these words being used to describe wellness, when in reality this type of messaging is often vague, over-simplified, and challenging to link to scientific research. This can lead to inaccuracy, misunderstanding, and, sometimes, unreasonable fears.

When looking for health information, consider: - Are they trying to sell you something?

- Is the research they cite misleading?

- Is it done on humans, or on animals and not replicated in humans?

- Are the claims based on one or two research studies that are not supported by what most research is saying?

- Were the studies peer-reviewed?

- Is it an actual study, or a hypothesis or opinion piece?

- Does the study’s conclusion support the message being shared?

- Is a quick fix or miracle cure being offered?

- Are the author’s credentials appropriate for the information they are providing?

These are often signs that the information may not be credible.

For credible nutrition-related information, Dietitians of Canada and unlockfood.ca are great resources. For physical activity related information, participaction.com is excellent, and ScienceUpFirst.com is a helpful resource for debunking misinformation.

For more information, visit our Health Unit website at healthunit.org, follow us on Facebook and X, or give us a call at 1-800-660-5853.

The Voice of North Grenville

Postbiotics for the gut, body, and brain

Last week’s column suggested that we are minnows in the grand life adventure.

This week we’ll look at little beings in our bellies that seem to have outsized influence. What is it about these microscopic components of the gut-brain connection that leads us to thinking that a postbiotic supplement might be a very good investment.

The gut microbiome is like a neighbourhood of friends you carry around in and on your body for your entire life. Just as the environment outside your body and the way you live your life have consequences for your well-being, this gooey world in your gut has an enormous impact on your health, from head to toe and cradle to grave.

What exactly is it? The gut-brain microbiome refers to a bustling two-way street between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, fueled in part by the vast community

of microorganisms residing in the gut.

In 1972, microbiologist Thomas Luckey estimated the human gut is home to 100 trillion microorganisms – bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. They make mighty contributions to brain health. About 90-95% of the body's serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, is produced in the gut.

Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease have also been associated with alterations in the gut microbiota. How they work is being studied, but there seems to be a role in the progression of disease.

The gut microbiome, when working well, helps

regulate the immune system too by distinguishing between harmful pathogens and beneficial microorganisms. When failing to perform, immune systems weaken, and inflammation goes unchecked.

Chronic inflammation could be a sign of an unhealthy gut microbiome.

This kind of inflammation has been implicated in various diseases, including those affecting the brain.

Understanding this dynamic interplay between the gut and the brain is a rapidly evolving area of research, and there is still much to learn about the specifics of how the microbiome influences brain function and vice versa. However, it is increasingly clear that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is important for overall health, including for mental and neurological health.

Here’s the interesting part. Unlike our lot as minnows in the great ocean of life, we can influence our body’s inner ocean with the right fuel to achieve a better balance in the microbiome.

A healthy gut will have ample communities of probiotics (healthy bacteria that convert fiber into beneficial compounds), prebiotics (a group of nutrients, mainly fiber, that feed these healthy bacteria), and postbiotics (bioactive compounds that offer important benefits to your body).

A healthy individual eating a diet that includes plenty of fiber and essential nutrients should enjoy a robust, well-functioning gut. But many people are kidding themselves as they consume foods high in animal proteins, sugar, salt, and saturated fat – just the ticket to punish gut bacteria and invite inflammation and chronic disorders.

Yet, as healthy food prices remain high, getting enough fiber and optimal nutrition is hard, even if you are trying to make the right choices. Is the cost of a supplement the right investment? If a boost to your microbiome gives you a better chance at reducing the risk of conditions like dementia, it’s money well spent.

Postbiotics are a relatively new option, offering targeted formulas that deliver more efficacy in achieving health benefits. Visit your local health food store and find out why experts recommend one product over another. Be sure to purchase from trusted sources offering products containing high quality natural ingredients backed by independent clinical studies.

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Health Unit on school immunizations

January 25, 2024

T h i s J a n u a r y, t h e in the letter.

Leeds, Grenville & LaIn some cases, the nark Health Unit is start- child is already immuing to send out letters nized, and the parent only informing over 6000 fami- needs to submit the proof. lies that they are required Health Care Providers do to submit immunization not automatically send in records to the Health Unit proof of immunization to for their child(ren). The the Health Unit. It is the letter tells the parent that parent’s responsibility to the Health Unit’s records do this. To submit proof, show that their child(ren) please have a picture of are missing some or all re- the up to date immuniquired doses for school at- zation record ready to tendance in Ontario. This upload through our secure falls under the Immuniza- web portal: https://s-ca. tion of School Pupils Act. chkmkt.com/?e=314268 These letters will be &h=D96D5099496A93 mailed directly to families A&l=en with children in Junior In other instances, parKindergarten (school en- ents will need to make an try), children aged 7 (past appointment to get the due for 4-6 year old boost- missing immunizations ers), and aged 17 (past due and then submit the updatfor 14-16 year old boost- ed immunization record. ers and Meningococcal). The Health Unit has clinA deadline for sub- ics in five communities to mitting the child’s proof help get children caught of immunization to the up; if they are not able Health Unit is provided to get in to their primary 12

care provider, book an Immunization appointment.

Parents with questions can reach a Health Unit immunization nurse by calling 1-800-660-5853 extension 2313. Please leave your message and your call will be returned within 2 business days.

Include the child’s name, date of birth and school as well as your contact information).

Parents can also email: schoolvaccine@healthunit.org (please do NOT

attach immunization records to your email - this is not a secure way to send personal health information. Include the child’s name, date of birth and school as well as your contact information).

For more information about school immunization, visit Immunization - Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit at https://healthunit. org/health-information/ immunization.

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TIMES MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

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Monthly Suppers prepared by Knights of Columbus at Holy Cross Church Hall at 503 Clothier St W. Suppers will be held on the last Thursday of the month commencing September 28. Cost $10 per adult, $5 for children under 12 and $25 for families.

PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@ gmail.com Kemptville Legion: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts.

Everyone Welcome BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, doors open at noon NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155 KLUB 67 EUCHRE Join us for fun, social euchre games taking place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday monthly at 1pm, September to May. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone welcome, $5. To play, Solutions to last week’s Sudoku 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.

People of Action - Rotary Club of Kemptville meet on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7AM at the Long Reach Restaurant. Meet for breakfast and informal discussion.

EUCHRE on Tuesday, January 23, February 6 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, Easy contact debbie.amirault@hotmail.com.

BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, January 30, February 13 at Pierce's Corners, also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. and play starts at 1:30 p.m. $5 per player. For information, contact debbie.amirault@hotmail.com.

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

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January 25, 2024

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Baldwin's Birds

The North Grenville Times

Which one is which?

With the varying seasonal weather affecting ourselves and the birds and their varieties, there comes a time when you tend to get a bit blase and think that the bird you are looking at on your feeder is the same one you saw yesterday. How can that be? Well, let's look at some of my recent sightings that I may have mentioned in my articles, or not, giving rise to that interminable question - which one is which?

There are three quizzical examples I can give you straight away: a) Is it a Sharp shinned Hawk or a Coopers Hawk? b) Is it a Crow or a Raven? c) Is it a Purple Finch or a House Finch? Oh how easy those sound to you, because of the possible familiarity you might have yourself with some of the pairs, if not all of them. It is this familiarity that can trip you up when identifying them, because there are only very subtle differences between any of these pairs, and they are so subtle that even many of the "experts" have difficulty separating them to give a positive answer to the question.

I am definitely not an expert, nor even profess to be, so I have to resort to the same resources to secure an answer as you yourselves do - viz. bird books, internet, and knowledgeable friends. Drawing conclusions from what you glean from these sources can be quite an educational activity, which is well worth doing if you have any doubts at all as to which one of the two you are actually looking at. I can assure you, the time that you spend doing your own research is a very enjoyable, mentally therapeutic and rewarding learning tool.

If you reach a logical and satisfactory conclusion to obtain the answer for yourself, then you are well ahead of the game.

I hope that this gives you another outlet to explore the many different facts about our avian friends that you might or might no, already know. Have fun anyway and stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

A Crow

The Voice of North Grenville

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National Non-Smoking Week and NRT

by LG&L Health Unit Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is well known as a way to help smokers in their journey to be nicotine free. It is important to understand how NRT works in your body to help you be more successful when using it. It also helps if you follow the instructions provided by your quit coach or health care provider with each product for best results.

For National NonSmoking week, the Health Unit is providing information about some common myths about NRT and quitting smoking.

Myth: Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) doesn’t work.

Truth: NRT works. NRT can double a smoker ’s chances of quitting smoking for good.

Many smokers find NRT helps them in their journey to quit by reducing the roller coaster effect of stopping and starting smoking. Every person is different. It might be worth trying NRT to see if it’s right for you. Even if you tried NRT before, it might be worth trying again.

NRT will help you the most if you use it as directed by your quit coach or health care provider. NRT works by replacing some of the nicotine you used to get January 25, 2024

from cigarettes, so you don’t feel as uncomfortable while you are quitting.

Myth: Using NRT will stop me from having withdrawal symptoms or cravings from quitting smoking.

Truth: You may still have withdrawal symptoms or cravings while using NRT. Try to be patient. Most people find withdrawal symptoms especially difficult the first week or two after quitting. Most smokers find withdrawal symptoms less intense when using NRT. If withdrawal symptoms continue a few days after you start using NRT, talk to your health care provider or the Health Unit. Some NRT products (gum, lozenge, inhaler) work better if they are not used at the same time as soft drinks or fruit juices.

It is safe to continue using NRT even if you slip and smoke one or two cigarettes.

Staying on NRT increases your chances of getting back on track with your quit attempt.

Myth: I can only use one NRT product.

Truth: NRT products can be used safely together.

For example, you might use long-acting NRT such as the patch with short-acting NRT such as a lozenge. Some people find both a longacting patch and short-acting

gum to be useful when cravings are high to handle withdrawal symptoms and fight off cravings.

Myth: NRT is too expensive.

Truth: A Health Unit quit coach or your health care provider can speak with you about options for NRT. There are Ontario programs that can help with free NRT. Myth: Smoking/vaping helps me relax.

Truth: This is one of the biggest myths; in fact, it does the opposite to your body.

Smoking makes your heart beat faster, your breathing quicken and your blood pressure rise. Stopping what you are doing to smoke/vape gives you a break from work or something causing you stress and takes your mind off your worries. You can accomplish the same results without smoking or vaping and a quit coach can help!

Myth: Switching to vaping is healthier if you want to quit smoking.

Truth: There is no real evidence that vaping is safe.

Quitting altogether is best but you may find reducing your consumption to be an option you can handle. Here are some tips if you think switching or reducing is your best option: - witch completely to vaping (use of both ciga-

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brightshinyspaces@gmail.com @BrightShinySpaces rettes and vaping increases risk); - choose low nicotine content product; - reduce use and manage cravings, and consider an approved quit product like nicotine patches or gum; and - If you don’t smoke, don’t start vaping.

“Quitting smoking or vaping can be one of the most difficult things to do,” says Debbie McIntyre, Public Health Nurse and Certified Tobacco Educator at the Health Unit. “It can take a few tries before you succeed.

Each time you try to quit, you increase your chances of being smoke free for good,”

adds McIntyre. “Making the decision to quit is a personal choice. Preparation and planning can increase the chances for a successful quit attempt.”

Any attempt to quit smoking or vaping is a good decision for your health. For more information, visit the

Ready to Quit page on the Health Unit’s website, or dontquitquitting.ca. You can also call 1-800-660-5853 ext 2121 or follow LGLHealthunit on Facebook and Twitter or @lglhealthunit.z on Instagram for important public health updates.

the north grenville

TIMES MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

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

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Life threatening injuries following train-vehicle collision A Community without a local Newspaper is a community in A VOID The CPKC level crossing at Crowder Road, east of Mountain.

by Brandon Mayer A collision between a Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) freight train and a delivery van at a public crossing east of Mountain last week has many residents of North Dundas questioning how and why the accident happened. The collision occurred just after 3 pm on January 16 at the Crowder Road level crossing between Winchester and Mountain.

The 60-year-old male driver of the courier van – who is from Augusta Township – was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries. His current condition was unknown at the time of writing. Unconfirmed reports suggest that he was airlifted from Winchester District Memorial Hospital to a larger hospital in Ottawa shortly after being admitted. An Ornge helicopter was observed arriving at the WDMH landing pad just before 4:30 pm on January 16, and departing shortly thereafter.

The wording of some news reports regarding the incident suggests that the delivery driver struck the side of the train while it was already moving through the level crossing. In CPKC’s statement to the Times, the wording suggests otherwise: “A CPKC train struck a motor vehicle on Crowder Road,” said the CPKC spokesperson. “The train cleared the area later in the afternoon.” The railway declined to provide any other details of the incident while the investigation proceeds.

Constable Serge Duguay of the OPP confirmed that the CPKC’s own police division is investigating in conjunction with OPP investigators. Similar to the CPKC Railway, Constable Duguay was not able to divulge any other January 25, 2024

details of what happened.

The North Dundas Fire Service had firefighters from stations 2 and 3 on site, and both Crowder Road and Development Road were closed for much of the day following the incident. Only local traffic was allowed, and both level crossings were impassable. The Township announced on January 17 that the roads were open once again.

The Crowder Road level crossing is one of two crossings in North Dundas that are unprotected by active warning systems such as lights, bells, and gates. Instead, the crossing has warning signage to alert drivers that the crossing is low visibility, suggesting an approach speed of 30. The crossing itself has a crossbuck and a stop sign – drivers are responsible for checking that no train is coming. Crowder Road is a through road, but is not heavily used except by locals. It is often left poorly treated for long stretches of time during the winter months. Last week, it was observed to be very icy.

The Transportation Safety Board designates crossings such as these as

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having “passive” protection in its database of the nearly 25,000 level crossings in Canada. The Crowder Road crossing ranks as number 5,947 in terms of danger on this list, with approximately 8 trains and 200 motor vehicles passing per day. In comparison, the St. Lawrence St. crossing in Winchester is ranked as more dangerous (number 828) despite having active protection, likely because of the estimated 2,870 cars that pass by daily. Neither crossing had any report of accidents, fatalities or injuries as of the 2023 TSB update.

Social media speculation has been heavy regarding the incident. Such details which cannot be confirmed by reports, evidence and facts should be taken with a grain of salt and will not be reported here.

As usual, the OPP is asking that anyone having information on this incident please call the SD&G OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Seaway Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can also submit a tip online at seawayvalleycrimestoppers.ca.

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The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Times

Hockey not for the faint of heart

How sweet it was....Eric Sweetapple head on a swivel to make sure his point is covered as the Lumber Kings collapse the middle and Nicholas Bennett with Ryan Rutley cycle outside low to setup Eric's first goal of the season, during a nerve racking Friday evening excursion with Pembroke Lumber Kings in front of home crowd.

by G.J. the sportsguy Friday evening was not for the faint of heart in the Urbandale Arts Centre as the Lumber KIngs of Pembroke pushed the 73's to the limit forcing a shootout to award Kemptville a 3 to 2 decision.

Pembroke came out hot in a extremely cold environment when Kemptville rode the pine for the second time from Murray to Barnard so Ryan Parent PPG punched the heavy rebound under the pillows of Dax Easter at 8:06. Lumber KIngs on their dumping chase game from a four man trap in the neutral zone to control the pace and take away the 73's speed to close out the first frame.

Second stanza was a give and take battle with out results as Pembroke continued to shut-down Kemptville

attack into the zone. Kemptville came out in the final twenty with a effective offensive to their opponents wall of defense as they countered with a combination of speed, quickness and creative passing outside the perimeter. The new strategies paid dividends when Melvin stretched one out to Bennett for a saucer pass to Eric Sweetapple to snipe it blocker side seven hole by Kevin Jones for his first of the season to even it up at 2:45.

Kemptville put another one in the back of the net that was called back after Pembroke Fortier piled drove Gavin McDougall into Jones and the rubber followed at 8:26. No infraction and to add salt to the wound, an important goal disallowed?

Kevin Jones was replaced with Conor Waldron, as Rutley going uptown with a string pass to Melvin, across to Nicholas Esposito gliding downtown to pull the trigger for tie breaker at 16:05. The Lumber Kings pulled their stopper at 19:01 for extra attacker and at 19:54 Sutton Murray, with helpers from Barnard with Hicklin, initiated an increased pulse for fans as the game went to OT. Pembroke commanded the extra time, as Kemptville’s stopper kept them honest to move the game into the dreaded shootout to finalize the finish when 73's sixth sniper Grady Logue magic capped it off with the win. Both teams logged 30 SOG. Into the PMC to face the Pembroke Lumber Kings for

a Sunday evening excursion seeking redemption from the road failure on Friday without success as they were blanked three zip by the 73's.

Initial frame opened and closed deadlocked without any result as 73's stretched out North South to create an opening to penetrate the trap of the Lumber Kings.

Kemptville on a mission after finding a way to breach the wall of Pembroke in neutral ice were on a tear as they capitalized on their quick, smooth, transition to open the scoring in the second.

Esposito combination with Eric Sweetapple loaded the biscuit into the basket past Kevin Jones for the game winner at 10:40 to launch Jacob Biron’s third SO of the season.

Insurance for Kemptville on a PP with transition from Haughian across ice to Trotier slipping it to the tape of Tyler Melvin PPG for his first of the contest at 18:06. O’Doherty on his horse with Bennett cycled it to Tyler Melvin PPG for his second in the last frame with Kemptville man advantage at 7:39 to give them the victory. Shots were 20 to 19 for Pembroke.

The 73's hit the road on Thursday evening into the Cornwall Colts corral, and then home to meet Nepean Raiders for Friday evening encounter. Back on the bus for a return bout in Nepean with the Raiders for a Sunday matinee.

Hockey with EDGE! See you around the boards.

#21

Owen Redmond Nickname: REDDY Born: Kemptville, ON. 04/19/2006 Position: Left Wing Previous Team: Kemptville 73’s U18 Hockey Hero: Brent Burns Most Inspiring Person : My Grandpa Favourite Movie : Cars Favourite Musician: Cody Johnson Favourite Food : Steak Favourite Sport (beside hockey): Baseball Life as Jr. A player : Living the Dream

One Word that Describes Me: Hardworking

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