Westport

Build a Mountain of Food campaign wraps up with big numbers in Athens and Delta

LAURIE WEIR The six-week RCL Build a Mountain of Food campaign has ended, but cash and food donations are still coming in. Jim Wright, one of the event’s organizers, told […]

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After 3 years of leaking, St. Columbanus Church in Elgin finally undergoing roof repairs

LAURIE WEIR After three years of ongoing water leaks resulting in damage inside the church, the roof of St. Columbanus Catholic Church in Elgin is finally getting some much-needed repairs. […]

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Rideau Lakes adopts Vision for the Community of Lombardy

SUBMITTED The final Community Vision for Lombardy was  adopted on Monday, December 2 at the regular meeting of Council.   Rideau Lakes continues to foster efforts towards village vitality and engaged […]

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Rideau Lakes Township cuts ties with Smiths Falls Fire Department

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes is cutting ties with the Smiths Falls Fire Services in 2026 – a partnership that started several years ago to help cover the […]

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More than $30,000 collected for Build a Mountain of Food in Elgin and Westport

LAURIE WEIR It was another stellar weekend on the RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food trail during week four of the campaign, as more than $30,000 was collected in […]

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Here are some festive finds discovery tours across the region

Local highlights include stops in Merrickville, Kemptville, Rideau Lakes SUBMITTED BY SOUTHEASTERN ONTARIO TOURISM Sleigh your Christmas shopping list with these Festive Finds Discovery Tours in South Eastern Ontario. Explore […]

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Delta Mill Society appeals to Rideau Lakes for community grant

LAURIE WEIR Rideau Lakes Township has received over $100,000 in community grant requests for 2025—three times the amount allocated in 2024.  Among the applicants, the Delta Mill Society (DMS) presented […]

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Opinion: Rideau Lakes council needs to bury the hatchet, but not in each other’s backs

LAURIE WEIR The ongoing drama surrounding the blue flyer, the integrity commissioner’s reports, and the public disagreements between councillors in Rideau Lakes have been significant distractions for the township. While […]

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Rideau Lakes mayor puts councillors on notice after ‘unprecedented’ conduct

LAURIE WEIR Never in his 50 years in municipal government has Rideau Lakes Mayor Arie Hoogenboom witnessed such an unprecedented act of insubordination. On Nov. 12, he reproached councillors who […]

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Opinion: Don’t pass the buck on animal welfare – funding and education are needed

LAURIE WEIR When news breaks about animal hoarding cases, the public’s reaction is a mix of anger, sadness and frustration. Hundreds of cats or dogs are often found crammed into […]

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Elgin cat rescue under investigation by animal welfare and OPP

LAURIE WEIR A cat rescue in Rideau Lakes Township is under investigation by the provincial animal welfare agency and the Ontario Provincial Police. Bill Dickson, media relations coordinator with the […]

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Rideau Lakes’ resident shares frustration over alleged wolfdog attack

Township to take a deeper dive into animal control bylaw LAURIE WEIR What is a vicious dog? According to Rideau Lakes bylaw, it means any dog which has bitten another […]

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RCL Automotive launches 2024 Build a Mountain of Food Campaign

LAURIE WEIR The 2024 Build a Mountain of Food campaign is set to kick off its 17th annual food drive on Saturday, Nov. 9, with initial stops in Almonte and […]

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Boat traffic on Rideau Canal down more than 10% in 2024

Partners work on ‘balanced schedule’ for 2025 navigation season LAURIE WEIR With the closure of the Rideau Canal on Thanksgiving weekend, Parks Canada has revealed a 10.3 per cent decline […]

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Rideau Lakes council seeks cost analysis to renovate municipal offices in Chantry

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes will look at a more fulsome option for renovations to the municipal offices in Chantry at a cost of $137,120 for the report, […]

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Rideau Lakes rejects pay suspension following Integrity Commissioner’s investigation

LAURIE WEIR After a year-long investigation, the Integrity Commissioner (IC) report involving Coun. Linda Carr of the Township of Rideau Lakes has finally been made public. The report, tabled at […]

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‘An eyesore’: Rideau Lakes may demolish former syrup factory in Delta if buyer not found

LAURIE WEIR The Delta maple syrup factory is for sale.  The Township of Rideau Lakes is hoping someone will purchase the former syrup factory and canoe making shop that’s been […]

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Campground licensing bylaw proposed for Rideau Lakes Township

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes is evaluating a proposed Tourist Campground Licensing Bylaw that would introduce licensing fees and operational guidelines for campgrounds, with a focus on protecting […]

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Rideau Lakes council faces turmoil over Code of Conduct breaches

LAURIE WEIR Rideau Lakes Township is grappling with a series of Integrity Commissioner (IC) investigations that have led to financial penalties for two councillors, intensifying divisions within the council. At […]

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Ombudsman urges Rideau Lakes council to release Integrity Commissioner report

LAURIE WEIR The Ontario Ombudsman has advised the Township of Rideau Lakes to release an Integrity Commissioner (IC) report concerning Coun. Linda Carr, following complaints that the report has been […]

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Local Land Trust celebrates $123,800 in OTF Grant from the Ontario government

SUBMITTED On Thursday, local MPP John Jordan met with the team at Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) to hear more about the $123,800 Resilient Communities Grant they received from the provincial […]

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Rideau Lakes wins National Award for Economic Development

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is delighted to share yesterday’s announcement from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC), naming Rideau Lakes as a winner of the 2024 EDAC Marketing […]

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You’re fired! Rideau Lakes Township council terminates Integrity Commissioner

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes will be ending its contract with Integrity Commissioner Bill Hunter.  Council voted unanimously on Sept. 23 to issue a 90-day written notice on […]

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Opinion: Are integrity investigations the new normal in Rideau Lakes, or is the system failing?

LAURIE WEIR Rideau Lakes Township finds itself embroiled in yet another round of Integrity Commissioner (IC) investigations, raising important questions: Are these probes now par for the course in township […]

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Rideau Lakes councillor under investigation by Integrity Commissioner – again

LAURIE WEIR Why are so  many councillors under investigation in Rideau Lakes? She’s only been a councillor for 16 months and already she’s the subject of a second Integrity Commissioner’s […]

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Lanark County council discusses child care expansion, medical response program and free tree seedling giveaway

SUBMITTED Here are the highlights from the Lanark County Council meeting held Sept. 25, 2024. Council Updated on Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Program: Lanark County Council has accepted […]

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Rideau Lakes to host Open House on municipal office upgrades, Sept. 18 in Lombardy

LAURIE WEIR Rideau Lakes Township will host an open house at the Ronald E. Holman Municipal Complex (Lombardy) on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. to introduce design […]

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Westporch Festival returns for a fun-filled day in Westport!

SUBMITTED Saturday, September 21st marks the fourth annual Westporch Festival!   Westporch is a FREE outdoor walking tour of Westport, as front porches become a showcase  for regional artists and musicians.   […]

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OPINION: Rideau Lakes finds balance in governance with strategic Integrity Report decision

LAURIE WEIR The Sept. 3 decision by the Rideau Lakes council to seek a third-party investigation into an Integrity Commissioner’s (IC) report, while keeping the report confidential, represents a crucial […]

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Rideau Lakes calls on province for an Integrity Commissioner check

Report on councillor is deferred for as long as it takes LAURIE WEIR A significant development unfolded regarding the Integrity Commissioner’s (IC) report about a councillor complaint in Rideau Lakes […]

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Rideau Lakes councillors opt to ignore Integrity Commissioner’s report

LAURIE WEIR Following a closed-door meeting (in-camera) on Aug. 12 regarding a report by the Integrity Commissioner, Rideau Lakes councillors have decided to kick this one under the rug. Because […]

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Rideau Lakes Township moves forward on concept drawings for municipal offices

LAURIE WEIR In a special meeting on Aug. 6, the Township of Rideau Lakes council approved spending over $15,000 to begin plans for salvaging the municipal offices in Chantry.  Councillors […]

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Canoe lending library beached for now in Rideau Lakes Township

LAURIE WEIR The canoe lending library was a good idea on paper, but it doesn’t hold water with Parks Canada in Rideau Lakes Township. In April, council wanted to move […]

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Rideau Lakes embarks on a new vision for the community of Lombardy

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes welcomes community members to participate in conversations about the future for the Village of Lombardy. In order to gather information about how residents and […]

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Toilet paper clogs drain at Rideau Lakes Township offices in Chantry

LAURIE WEIR A foot-long chunk of toilet paper backed up the pipes in the men’s washroom at the Rideau Lakes municipal office in Chantry, forcing the closure of the office […]

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Rideau Lakes to purchase final property in contamination zone near Portland landfill site

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes has agreed to purchase the final piece of property in a contamination zone near the Portland Landfill site for nearly $870,000. This is […]

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Golf legend on her way to Paris for third Olympic appearance

Fans invited to line the streets of Smiths Falls for sensational send-off LAURIE WEIR Family, friends and fans of Brooke Henderson are invited to line Brockville, Beckwith and Elmsley streets […]

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Tornado touches down near Rideau Ferry

Severe storm takes out power, trees LAURIE WEIR It’s been confirmed by Western University’s Northern Tornadoes Project that a tornado ripped through the Lanark County area last night, July 24, […]

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Tay Valley’s Rob Rainer seeks provincial Liberal Party nomination for LFK riding

Township’s reeve did ‘much reflection’ on the decision LAURIE WEIR Rob Rainer is seeking the provincial Liberal Party nomination for the riding of Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston, announcing his intention on Canada Day. […]

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Rideau Lakes celebrates corporate donation of new Floating Dock System

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to celebrate the generous donation of a new ramp and floating dock for paddlers to access Big Rideau Lake. A Grand Opening and […]

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Rideau Lakes breaks ground for the new Portland Community Hall and Library

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes will be gathering for a photo to commemorate the groundbreaking of the new Portland Community Hall and Library building on Friday, July 19th at 12:30 p.m. […]

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‘Once in a lifetime’: North Leeds U18 girls’ soccer team to play in Gothia Cup in Sweden

LAURIE WEIR The opportunity to play soccer in Sweden doesn’t come too often. But when it does, an entire community comes together. The girls’ U18 North Leeds soccer team of […]

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Rideau Lakes hosts summit about additional residential units and tiny homes

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes hosted the Additional Residential Unit/Tiny Home Summit at the North Crosby Community Hall on Tuesday, June 25th to an audience of over 40 people to […]

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Three ‘tines’ the charm: Fork returns to Elizabethtown-Kitley’s table

LAURIE WEIR The Fork in the Road art installation has returned to Elizabethtown-Kitley Township.  Artist Chris Banflavi, and Bill Gibbons, who has commissioned three forks for the juncture near his […]

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Local students selected for 2024 Summer Company Program

SUBMITTED This year, 3 enterprising local students have been selected to participate in the 2024 Summer Company Program in the Lanark County/Smiths Falls/North Leeds Grenville area. This program offers young […]

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Rideau Lakes welcomes The Ontario Historical Society’s Executive Director

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is excited to announce that Daniel Dishaw of The Ontario Historical Society will be welcomed to Rideau Lakes on Friday, June 7 from 10:00 a.m. to […]

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Rideau Lakes Township to move forward with RFP on Chantry municipal offices

LAURIE WEIR What will happen with the Rideau Lakes municipal offices in Chantry? Will the building be retrofitted to house some 25 staff members, partially demolished so a new space […]

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Regulating fireworks in Rideau Lakes goes back to fire chief for adjustments

LAURIE WEIR A new fireworks bylaw will be tweaked in Rideau Lakes Township to try and curb excessive use of them.  Gene Richardson, the township’s fire chief, brought his report […]

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Leeds OPP arrest male for firearm offences

SUBMITTED TheLeeds County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have laid multiple charges after a firearms-related incident in the Lombardy area of Rideau Lakes Township. On May 24, 2024 […]

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Cell service goals to realize $300M investment in Eastern Ontario

Lanark County to see $19.2M in infrastructure builds LAURIE WEIR How annoying are dropped calls, slow data speeds and the inability to log into emails or meetings? Very – but […]

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Rideau Lakes Township tries to tackle fishing tournament parking

LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes will leave anglers alone when it comes to licensing fees – but parking will be studied for future events.  Shellee Fournier, the township’s […]

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Rideau Lakes Township to apply for $60,000 accessible grant

Grant will go towards Ronald E. Holman Municipal Complex upgrades LAURIE WEIR Lighting and picnic tables are on the agenda for a park in Rideau Lakes Township.  There is an […]

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Deeper dive into Rideau Lakes Township offices’ retrofit plan deferred to May 27

Would another location for a new building make more sense? LAURIE WEIR The state Township of Rideau Lakes’ municipal offices in Chantry was under the microscope by the senior management […]

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Rideau Lakes launches new Community Profile and video

SUBMITTED The new Rideau Lakes Community Profile was adopted on  Tuesday, April 2 at the regular meeting of Council, and the accompanying video was  launched at the Rideau Lakes Business […]

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Strategic plan to get overhaul in Rideau Lakes Township

Public input sought during implementation of new plan LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes will undergo an overhaul on its strategic plan, as staff will encourage public input.  Shellee […]

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Thomas Cavanagh Construction is successful bidder for Rideau Lakes build in Portland

New hall and library bid comes in at just over $2.5M LAURIE WEIR The construction of the long-awaited Portland hall and library has been awarded to Thomas Cavanagh Construction for […]

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New lending library in Rideau Lakes Township will allow users canoe Newboro Lake

LAURIE WEIR You can check out tons of books across Rideau Lakes Township, but how about a canoe? This pilot project will get paddlers onto Newboro Lake, and was approved […]

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Potential savings of $175,000 in Rideau Lakes Township due to mild winter

LAURIE WEIR Lack of snow events this season have given Rideau Lakes Township about $175,000 in cost savings – at least for now. During a regular municipal services committee meeting […]

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Hours of operation at RBC in Portland downsized to 3 days

Rideau Lakes council to send letter of request to reopen 5 days a week LAURIE WEIR Limited hours of operation at the RBC branch in Portland has caused some concern […]

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One driver deceased after motorcycle collision

SUBMITTED The Leeds County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a single motorcycle collision where the operator was pronounced deceased on-scene. Members of the OPP were dispatched […]

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Thirty-four businesses nominated for the Rideau Lakes Business Recognition Awards

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce that  34 local businesses have been nominated for the Business Recognition Awards.   This year, the Township is working with three […]

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Smiths Falls defenseman suffers spinal cord injury in EOJHL playoff action

Mac Spinelli of the Athens Aeros recovers in neck brace for 8 weeks LAURIE WEIR A Smiths Falls native, and defenseman for the Athens Aeros, has suffered a spinal cord […]

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‘Publicly attacked’: Correspondence policy drafted by Rideau Lakes Township

Policy would help staff deal with each piece of communication received LAURIE WEIR Delivering messaging consistently and fairly in the Township of Rideau Lakes has prompted the chief administrative officer […]

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Rideau Lakes veterinarian honoured with prestigious accolades

Dr. Shane Renwick earns WVA Global Veterinary Award LAURIE WEIR The Township of Rideau Lakes has recognized another prestigious award winner.  Dr. Shane Renwick of the Elgin area, won the […]

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‘We flip and we flop’: Rideau Lakes removes excavator from budget at 11th hour

Committee to recommend to council changes to budget that includes 3.5% tax levy LAURIE WEIR Rideau Lakes Township flipped on previous decisions before approving the budget with a 3.5 per […]

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Rideau Lakes to have another look at salvaging Chantry municipal offices

LAURIE WEIR If at first you don’t succeed with a motion, try, try again.  Coun. Paula Banks brought another motion to the table of the municipal services committee of Rideau […]

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Rideau Lakes municipal building under a potential retrofit microscope

BY LAURIE WEIR The municipal offices of the Township of Rideau Lakes are under the microscope again after Coun. Paula Banks brought forward a motion to the regular meeting of […]

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Marco Smits recognized by Rideau Lakes for Emmy-award winning coverage of 2022 Olympics

BY LAURIE WEIR Fiber optics in Rideau Lakes was the Emmy award winner at a regular meeting of the municipal services committee.  Marc Smits won a Sports Emmy Award for […]

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Rideau Lakes Business Recognition Program open for nominations

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Business Recognition Awards. Each year, the Township calls for nominations of businesses located in […]

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New Commander for Grenville OPP Detachment

SUBMITTED BY ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE EAST REGION HEADQUARTERS Inspector Lisa Nicholas is the new Commander of the Grenville Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police. “I am very pleased to announce […]

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Rideau Lakes welcomes Steve Holmes as Manager of Parks and Facilities

SUBMITTED The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce that Steve Holmes has been selected to fill the position of Manager of Parks and Facilities, starting on February 20, 2024. […]

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Building activity in Rideau Lakes shows steady growth

SUBMITTED BY TOWNSHIP OF RIDEAU LAKES The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to report that building activity over the last five years marks continued growth and investment. The end-of-year […]

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Portside Pub & Eatery on track for February opening

SUBMITTED BY THE TOWNSHIP OF RIDEAU LAKES The Township of Rideau Lakes and Jason Moore,  owner of Portside Pub & Eatery are pleased to jointly advise the public that the […]

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What’s in store for Rideau Lakes in 2024?

A roundabout in Crosby, a completed fire station for South Elmsley, and park improvements are on the agenda BY LAURIE WEIR Roundabouts, a fire station, and park improvements throughout the […]

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Rideau Lakes welcomes new Fire Chief Gene Richardson

SUBMITTED BY TOWNSHIP OF RIDEAU LAKES The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce that Gene Richardson has been selected as Fire Chief and will begin on February 12, 2024. […]

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Registering Your Child for Kindergarten – 101

SUBMITTED BY UCDSB Starting Kindergarten marks an exciting chapter for families. In this pivotal stage, children learn the fundamentals of math and literacy but also develop independence, problem-solving skills, and the […]

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Local Boards of Health investigate possible merger

Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Board of Health, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District (LGLD) Board of Health, and the Hastings Prince Edward (HPE) Board of Health endorsed […]

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Rideau Lakes Township (RLT) Council rejects BESS projects over safety concerns

Two companies made a presentation each bidding for an Ontario government contract to build and maintain Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in RLT for a 20 year period. They […]

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Secondhand Stories launches online auction for rescue chickens

Online auction is a financial lifeline for local chicken sanctuary. On November 20, 2023 Secondhand Stories launched their biggest fundraiser of the year, their winter online auction. Sadly, on occasion, owners can […]

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Guarding your home and health: November’s call to action for radon awareness

November is Radon Action Month and the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) is encouraging homeowners to test their homes for radon. Radon is the second leading cause […]

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Small papers make a big difference

We haven’t left. We’re still here. Others have gone…but Hometown News is still on the streets. For a week or two we thought there wouldn’t be any papers in Smiths […]

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The 2023 Build a Mountain of Food Campaign

The Build a Mountain of Food Campaign is about to embark on its 17th year of collecting food and cash donations in support of local food banks through out the […]

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Annual Lake 88 Radiothon for Local Healthcare Raises $122,475

The Annual Lake 88 Radiothon for local health care has raised $122,475 for local hospitals and community health care centres. And we can’t thank you enough.  Lake 88 Radiothon Founder Brian Perkin […]

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Lanark County acknowledges World Homelessness Day

Lanark County Council has declared Oct. 10 as World Homelessness Day in Lanark County and affirms its commitment to move the bar on homelessness in the community. World Homelessness Day […]

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Grand opening – The Tipped Ship, Elgin

On February 24th, 2023, the doors of The Tipped Ship on Main Street in Elgin will open to the public following a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11 am. All are […]

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Extreme cold warning

The Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) would like to advise everyone to take appropriate precautions over the next few days as temperatures are expected to be extremely […]

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A change of shoes can change a life

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County (BBBSLC) is excited to once again be partnering with the local Tim Hortons restaurants for the Tim Hortons Bowl for Kids Sake event […]

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Lanark County Paramedics partner with Trillium Gift of Life

The Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) and the Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) have partnered to help save and enhance more lives. After several years of collaborative work, delayed […]

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CFUW Perth and District supports summer literacy programming in Lanark County

Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Perth and District is providing $3,000 to support delivery of literacy programs for children in the summer of 2023. Early literacy provides a strong […]

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The 2022 RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food embarks on its 16th year

The 16th annual RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign’s Title Sponsor, RCL Automotive, has once again joined forces this holiday season with media partners, Metroland Media, Lake 88 […]

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Lanark County celebrates child care sector workers

October 18th is the 22nd annual Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day, and Lanark County is celebrating! “This year we recognize our amazing early learning and child […]

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Municipal Elections. Boring? Waste of Time? Think Again!

We can all be excused for not looking forward to elections with their noise, excessive and often negative advertising, and seemingly endless debates about things we have little concern for. […]

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Findings of the fire investigation report for the Portland Fire Station

The Township of Rideau Lakes was provided with the Final Fire Investigation report by the Office of the Fire Marshal on July 6, 2022 in response to a reportable large […]

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SuperWalk 2022 welcomes supporters and walkers to register/walk/donate

On Saturday, September 10, 2022, the Parkinson Canada SuperWalk, a post Labour Day September tradition in the area since the first successful walk in 2017, is returning to its roots. […]

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New community partnership in Portland

The Township of Rideau Lakes and Country Roads Community Health Centre are pleased to announce a new partnership with the Portland Food Bank and the Community Clothing Co-operative. This newly […]

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Provincial election candidates for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston

Conservative | Green | Liberal | NDP Yes it’s election time again. On Thursday, June 2 Ontarians will go to the polls to choose their next MPPs. Hometown News has […]

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After two years of Covid cancellations Maple Weekend is back April 2 and 3

The Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association is excited to announce that after two years of cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the province will once again be showcasing a new […]

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Township launches new “Experience Rideau Lakes” pages on Social Media

The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce the launch of its new Facebook and Instagram pages on Meta (formerly known as Facebook). As part of the Digital Content […]

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Portland Fire Hall and contents destroyed

On Tuesday, December 21, Rideau Lakes Township lost the building that houses the Portland Fire Hall and its contents, including fire vehicles. At approximately 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, the three-bay […]

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An open letter to the community from your healthcare workers

Dear friends and neighbours across Lanark, Leeds and Grenville, Our communities are facing a very concerning increase of COVID-19 cases. The Omicron variant is here, and it is increasing the […]

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Am I the Only One: Homelessness

The US reached a stark milestone this month of 100,000 people dying of drug overdoses in one year. That is 275 overdose deaths every day.  In Canada, 20 people die […]

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New Portland Municipal Hub receives green light from Council

At their December 13 meeting, Rideau Lakes Council provided approval to proceed with the new municipal hub in the village of Portland.  The decision followed two years of work and […]

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Rideau Lakes launches new historical documentary

The Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee of the Township of Rideau Lakes (MHAC) has partnered with historian and filmmaker Allison Margot Smith in the creation of a new documentary telling the […]

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LFK Green Party candidate announcement

The Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston Green Party of Ontario Constituency Association is pleased to announce that our candidate for the June 2022 election is Dr. Marlene Spruyt of Ardoch. Dr. Spruyt is a […]

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Fatal house fire in Rideau Lakes Township under investigation

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a fatal house fire in Rideau Lakes Township. On November 30, 2021, at approximately 9:15 p.m., members of the Leeds Detachment of the […]

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Lanark County business community invited to participate in Think Local marketing info session

The Carleton Place & District Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Smiths Falls & District Chamber of Commerce and the Perth & District Chamber of Commerce, is inviting local […]

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Westport council welcomes newest member

On Monday October 18th, the town of Westport held a by-election to fill a vacant council seat left by former councilor Melissa Sullivan who resigned for personal reasons in May […]

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A plan to safely reopen ontario

Beginning October 25th, 2021, Ontario will be removing capacity limits where proof of vaccination is required. This will include settings like restaurants, bars, sports facilities, casinos, and indoor meeting and event spaces, […]

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R.O.P.E. Squad seeking public assistance in locating federal offender

The Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (R.O.P.E.) Squad is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a federal offender wanted on a Canada Wide Warrant as a result of his breach of […]

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Menstrual product dispensers installed in all UCDSB schools

To continue with its ongoing efforts to bring equitable opportunities to each student, the Upper Canada District School Board has made menstrual products free and accessible in every school across the district and […]

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Lanark County Food Bank’s Sandy Claus is already calling on her elves

It may be Fall but the Lanark County Food Bank Stocking Drive is already on. Because clients only access the Food Bank once a month, stockings start being handed out […]

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“Fall in love” with Lanark County trails this fall

Lanark County Warden Christa Lowry (Mississippi Mills Mayor) is encouraging everyone to “fall in love” with Lanark County Trails as the annual showcase of fall colours begins. “We have a […]

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Radiothon aims to fund healthcare equipment need

Thursday, October 14, 2021 ‘Supporting our frontline workers by giving them the tools they need’ Local healthcare officials, doctors, nurses, patients and volunteers will take to the airwaves of Lake […]

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UCDSB schools honour indigenous history and future partnerships on September 30

On September 30, flags will be at half-mast throughout the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) and staff and students will be dressed in orange, to recognize and share in learning for […]

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Plan ahead to avoid fall colour crowds at Foley Mountain

Foley Mountain’s Spy Rock lookout is a popular fall destination at the best of times, but this year staff are preparing for record crowds as pandemic-weary residents search for safe […]

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Lanark County recognizes Truth and Reconciliation Day and sets greenhouse gas reduction targets

On Wednesday Sept 8th Lanark County council unanimously passed a resolution to Recognize Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept 30th.  The motion refers to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report […]

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Get to know local candidates

Every few years, Canadians are privileged to be able to make their mark in politics. I’m not talking about making your mark as a politician, although there are plenty of […]

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Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston early voting

In advance of the federal election on September 20, the Elections Canada office for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston is open at Settlers Ridge Centre in Smiths Falls for early voting. Jackie Staples, recruitment […]

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UCDSB further invests in ventilation and other school safety measures

From improving air quality to installing hundreds of water bottle re-filling stations, the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) continues with its commitment to ensuring schools remain a safe and healthy place for staff and students this school year.   […]

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Calvin Neufeld announced as LFK Green Party candidate

The Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston Green Party of Canada Electoral District Association is excited and pleased to officially announce that Calvin Neufeld of Perth is our candidate for the 2021 federal election. For […]

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Health Unit warns to take precautions during high heat and humidity

It’s hot out there! The Health Unit would like to remind everyone to take care during times of high temperatures and high humidity. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued […]

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Westport Rideaus owners fire team’s manager and staff

Westport hockey fans seem to have been caught off guard by this week’s announcement that the owners of the Westport Rideaus have decided to terminate the team’s general manager and […]

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Health unit warns to take precautions during high heat and humidity

It’s hot out there! The Health Unit would like to remind everyone to take care during times of high heat and humidity. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a […]

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Majority must be vaccinated to restore normal life, says medical officer of health

Late in 1942 after a series of Allied victories, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill had this to say: “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning […]

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Four Lanark County Paramedics presented with bravery awards

Ontario Award for Paramedic Bravery – Paramedics across Ontario go above and beyond every day to serve their community. Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) is proud to honour four of its […]

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Health Unit warns to take precautions during high heat and humidity

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of a one day heat event on Friday May 21, 2021 for Lanark County.  High heat can be hazardous to your […]

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Avoid social gatherings Victoria Day weekend, says health unit

The Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit is advising the public to avoid social gatherings during the upcoming long weekend. Information provided to the Hometown News by the heath […]

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Health Unit asks for continued compliance over the long weekend

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit area is experiencing the lowest active case numbers since the beginning of March. We are asking residents to continue to follow the […]

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County sign by-law replaced with new rules

County council has approved an updated policy and by-law to regulate advertising signs and devices in the county right-of-way and on private property adjacent to county roads. The new by-law […]

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“Connect Lanark” broadband program launched

At Wednesday’s (May 12) Lanark County council meeting, the Connect Lanark program received final approval. This financial assistance is designed to help low-income families to achieve broadband internet installation. The […]

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Catholic high school students stage online protest

Reports that colleagues threw a party for a teacher convicted of sexually assaulting and exploiting students at St. John’s Catholic High School led to a protest at the school Tuesday, […]

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Catholic high school students plan to ‘log out’ Tuesday in protest

A rumour that colleagues threw a party for a teacher convicted of sexually assaulting and exploiting students at St. John’s Catholic High School has triggered plans for a protest at […]

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Sew Crafty

On the road again. At least that’s what Fred and Sue Gieratz plan when they sell the business they’ve been in for 27 years. The couple have catered to the […]

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Covid friendly activities to do near your hometown this summer

With the hopeful end of lockdown coming soon, I reached out to some of the surrounding towns to find out what kind of Covid-19 friendly events are being planned this […]

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Protect against ticks on the trails this season

Ticks are notoriously bad at social distancing, and as you hit the trails this season it’s important you take precautions to keep them at bay. Black-legged ticks are on the […]

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Vaccine Distribution Plan Rolling out in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Heath Unit is pleased to be working with many community partners as it rolls out the LGL COVID-19 Vaccination Plan. With vaccine supply stabilizing […]

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Tips for keeping your workplace safe during the COVID-19 pandemic

Workplace outbreaks do happen even here in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark.  We have seen workplace outbreaks across multiple sectors including the food industry, manufacturing, the trades, automotive etc.  A COVID-19 […]

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Rideau Lakes delivers on Crosby traffic lights

Following two decades of advocacy by Rideau Lakes, traffic lights are coming to Crosby.  The Highway 15 and Country Road 42 intersection at Crosby is a notoriously blind and dangerous […]

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Register your child for full-day Kindergarten with the UCDSB!

The Upper Canada District School Board is so excited to welcome your child to Kindergarten this September. And registration is now open! Not only will your child learn literacy and math […]

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Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Region will be in shutdown as of Boxing Day

A provincewide shutdown will go into effect as of Saturday, December 26, 2020, at 12:01 am. The restrictions are in effect for all of Ontario from Saturday, December 26, 2020 […]

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Confirmed case of COVID-19 at Rideau Vista Public School

Parents/guardians and staff at Rideau Vista Public School received notification today that an individual at the school has tested positive for COVID-19. Working closely with the school, the Leeds, Grenville and […]

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Confirmed case of COVID-19 at Rideau Vista Public School

Parents/guardians and staff at Rideau Vista Public School received notification that an individual at the school has tested positive for COVID-19. The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is closely monitoring the situation and […]

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Ontario’s Workplace Education and Enforcement Campaign comes to LGL this week

Inspection Blitz Helps to Prevent Spread of COVID-19 and Keep Workers and Public Safe The Ontario government launched a series of education and enforcement campaigns to ensure businesses across the […]

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Welcome to County Council

For those of you not familiar with our upper tier municipal government, here’s a quick introduction. Lanark County council is made up of representatives of the communities within the county and […]

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RVCA supports Lanark County Climate Action Plan through landowner tree planting program

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) supports Lanark County’s commitment to plant one million trees through its landowner tree planting program. The RVCA’s program has helped landowners in watershed municipalities […]

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Fall at Foley Mountain

Foley Mountain Conservation Area is a popular fall destination. Known for its breathtaking views and scenic hiking trails, Foley Mountain continues to welcome guests for much needed outdoor fun. “Fall […]

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School buses are returning soon

Drivers reminded to exercise caution The Grenville Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police reminds motorists that school buses are returning to area roads very soon. Motorists are reminded to exercise […]

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LGL Community Partners successful Health Canada grant recipients

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, along with its community partners, are successful recipients of a 3 year Health Canada Substance Use and Addictions Program grant. This grant […]

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CDSBEO School Re-entry Plan for September 2020

The CDSBEO School Re-entry plan contains details to help parents with their decision on whether to choose remote distance learning or in-person instruction at school. It describes what we know […]

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Health Unit warns to take precautions during high heat and humidity

Environment Canada had issued a heat warning for today and tomorrow due to high heat and humidity. The Health Unit would like to remind everyone to be cautious as the […]

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UCDSB favours students in school full time in 2020-2021 School Reopening Plan

Senior staff and Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) met virtually on Wednesday, July 22 to discuss the UCDSB Draft School Reopening Plan that will be submitted to the Ministry of […]

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UCDSB Student Survey provides insightful feedback for Fall planning

The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) surveyed Grade 7-12 students to get feedback on their experiences with distance learning and how the current model could be improved in the […]

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Ontario starts to re-open for business

On May 14, The Ontario Government announced some re-opening strategies for businesses and a plan to start Stage 1 on Tuesday May 18. The list of businesses opening this weekend can be […]

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Health Unit and Farmers’ Markets are working together to safely bring local food to the community

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark strongly supports local Farmers’ Markets. They encourage people to buy healthy local food, and are a way for farmers to sell their produce.  They have […]

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Rideau Lakes presents cheque to Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital

The Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital was the recipient of a cheque for $54,484 from the Township of Rideau Lakes today. Mayor Arie Hoogenboom presented the cheque to the […]

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We are “Community Strong”

I believe as we go through this pandemic, self-care is very important. One thing I do is go for a walk. Even before the pandemic, walking every day has been […]

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Ontarians asked to “Shine a Light for All They Do” May 1 in a province-wide show of appreciation on Doctors’ Day

Ontarians can show their appreciation for doctors on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, and all doctors who work to keep their patients healthy, by simply turning on their phone […]

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Township of Rideau Lakes declares State of Emergency

After careful consideration, and in consultation with the Emergency Management Control Group, Mayor Hoogenboom has declared a municipal State of Emergency with the Township of Rideau Lakes in accordance with […]

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First person with confirmed COVID-19 reported in Leeds, Grenville & Lanark

Today, Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, confirmed that an individual living in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark area has […]

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Rideau Lakes continue efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic

The Township of Rideau Lakes’ Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) met on March 13th and March 17th, 2020 to discuss measures to limit the spread of the virus within our […]

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RVCA offices closed to public

The health, safety and well-being of our visitors and staff is our top priority. RVCA is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with the following changes in operations and programming effective […]

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Rideau Lake’s MECG discuss and prepare for COVID-19

The Township of Rideau Lake’s Municipal Emergency Management Control Group (MECG) convened the morning of March 13 at 9:30am to discuss and prepare for COVID-19 and the Township’s response. The […]

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Winter work on Hutton Creek Marsh restoration complete

Winter restoration work on the Hutton Creek Marsh is now complete to the delight of the many dedicated partners who made the project possible. This work completes Phase 2 of […]

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Rideau District High School wins silver at EOSSAA Junior A Girls’ Volleyball championship

The Rideau District High School Lions won silver Tuesday, March 3 at the EOSSAA Junior A Girls’ Volleyball Championship, held at St. Mary Catholic High School in Brockville. Despite a […]

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Creating housing solutions in Lanark County

On February 20th, The Table Community Food Centre is hosting a Housing Forum in response to the current housing crisis and everyone is invited. With continually rising costs, and almost […]

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Local Youth Film Festival offers $1000 grand prize!

MyView Youth Film Festival is back for its 7th year!  Kemptville’s own McGahey Insurance and Grenville Mutual Insurance have again teamed up to provide the $1000 Grand Prize for 2020. This creative […]

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