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Articles by Evan Gibb
Local MP reflects on new role focused on veterans
Local MP Michael Barrett recently took on a new role focused on improving support for Canadian veterans. Barrett, who represents Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes, was elected vice-chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs. Barrett said the goal is to make sure veterans receive the support, dignity and benefits they deserve.
Your shopping cart could make a difference as trade tensions continue
Where you spend your money could matter a little more these days. With trade tensions continuing between Canada and the United States, local politicians are encouraging people to take a second look at Canadian-made products and businesses closer to home. Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett says choosing Canadian can help keep money circulating in local communities.
Shopping local urged as trade tensions continue
Local politicians are encouraging Canadians to keep their spending close to home as businesses navigate ongoing trade tensions. Eastern Ontario MP Michael Barrett says buying Canadian products can help support local businesses and the people who depend on them.
MP Michael Barrett reacts to fuel excise tax extension
Canadians will continue to receive a break on the federal fuel excise tax after the government extended the suspension until Jan. 31, 2027. The measure was originally set to run from April 20 to Sept. 7, 2026. The suspension removes the federal excise tax of 10 cents per litre on gasoline and aviation gasoline, and four cents per litre on diesel and other aviation fuel. Eastern Ontario MP Michael Barrett says he is happy to see the relief extended, but believes more support is needed.
Local MP Michael Barrett weighs in on Canada’s recent retaliatory tariffs
Local MP Michael Barrett says Canada must continue to stand strong against U.S. President Donald Trump as retaliatory tariffs on American products take effect. The tariffs, covering products including steel, aluminum, automobiles and consumer goods, came into effect Tuesday. Barrett says retaliatory tariffs are necessary at this point in time. He says the effects will definitely be felt in Leeds and Grenville, particularly because of the riding’s reliance on manufacturing.
MP Michael Barrett says Canada needs to stand firm against U.S. trade pressure
Eastern Ontario MP Michael Barrett says Canada must continue to stand strong against U.S. President Donald Trump as retaliatory tariffs on American products take effect. The tariffs, covering products including steel, aluminum, automobiles and consumer goods, came into effect Tuesday. Barrett says retaliatory tariffs are necessary at this point in time.
Trails Fest 2026 returns September 11 through 13
The Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network’s (FABN) annual Trails Fest runs September 11 to 13, inviting people to get out and explore local trails. With more on the free hikes, here’s FABN’s Communications and Outreach Coordinator Becky Lamb. Hikes are planned in South Frontenac, Brockville, Rideau Lakes and Gananoque.
Ontarians urged to get involved as municipal elections approach
Municipal elections in Ontario are edging closer, with provincial and federal officials urging residents to get involved. According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, less than one-third of eligible voters participated in the 2022 municipal election. Michael Barrett, a federal MP who previously served at the municipal level, said it is imperative people get out and vote.
Another local protest against Doug Ford planned for August 29th
pressmaster / Depositphotos.com Another province-wide protest against Premier Doug Ford is planned for Brockville on Saturday, August 29. The Leeds Grenville Labour Council is organizing the protest, which will begin at 11 a.m. at Thousand Islands Secondary School. It follows a similar demonstration held in Brockville last month. Organizer Thomas Hopkins explains why he chose to hold another protest.
First rural-focused Liberal leadership debate takes place this Sunday
Photo: Small Giant, Unsplash The Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Ontario Liberal Riding Association is set to host the first rural-focused leadership debate this Sunday, Aug. 16. The debate will take place at the North Grenville Municipal Centre and will feature four Ontario Liberal leadership candidates from the Greater Toronto Area. Ray Heffernan, president of the association, explained why he decided to organize the event.
With turnout historically low, provincial and federal leaders encourage residents to vote in municipal election
Municipal elections in Ontario are edging closer, with provincial and federal officials urging residents to get involved. According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, less than one-third of eligible voters participated in the 2022 municipal election. Michael Barrett, a federal MP who previously served at the municipal level, said it is imperative people get out and vote.
Ontarians urged to get involved as municipal elections approach
Municipal elections in Ontario are edging closer, with provincial and federal officials urging residents to get involved. According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, less than one-third of eligible voters participated in the 2022 municipal election. Michael Barrett, a federal MP who previously served at the municipal level, said it is imperative people get out and vote.
43rd Athens Cornfest set for Saturday
DimaSobkoD / Depositphotos.com The 43rd annual Athens Cornfest is set for this Saturday, Aug. 15, at Centennial Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Organizer Linda Ross says there will be no shortage of entertainment. https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2107/files/2026/08/081126-linda-ross-01.mp3 The Cornfest Parade will begin at 10 a.m., with children encouraged to decorate bikes or wagons, wear costumes and take part in the parade.
ALTO dispute continues between Elizabethtown-Kitley mayor and Rideau Lakes councillor
A dispute over the proposed ALTO high-speed rail project has escalated between Elizabethtown-Kitley Mayor Brant Burrow and Rideau Lakes Councillor Paula Banks, who is also a candidate for mayor in the upcoming municipal election in Rideau Lakes. The disagreement centres on meetings between ALTO and local municipalities, what information has been shared with councils and whether some comments made publicly about those meetings were accurate.
Local MP Barrett takes on role advocating for Canada’s veterans
MP Michael Barrett (file photo) Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands–Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett has been appointed Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs by the Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition. He said the new role is an honour. https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2107/files/2026/08/071626-michael-barrett-01.mp3 Barrett talked about the primary aim of the position.
Local MP Michael Barrett says Canada must stand strong as Trump tariff threats continue
InkDropCreative / Depositphotos.com On the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 50 per cent tariff threats on Canadian exports, local MP Michael Barrett says Canada needs to continue standing strong. He says it is difficult to understand why Canada continues to be singled out.
Local MP Michael Barrett says Canada must stand strong as Trump tariff threats continue
On the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 50 per cent tariff threats on Canadian exports, local MP Michael Barrett says Canada needs to continue standing strong. He says it is difficult to understand why Canada continues to be singled out. Barrett says he and his party want to support the federal government in its efforts to reverse the tariff threats. The threats come as the U.S. pushes for major changes to CUSMA, the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement.
Local MPP says Ontario speed limit increase is another step towards future highway changes
It’s official, Ontario has increased speed limits to 110 km/h on an additional 938 kilometres of provincial highways including sections of Highways 401 and 416 in eastern Ontario. Local MPP Steve Clark says this is another step towards the eventual conversion to six and eight-lane highways in the future. https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2107/files/2026/06/062626-clark-01.mp3 Here’s Clark with more on the change.
Local MP weighs in on World Cup ticket prices
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and the tournament hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico has faced ongoing criticism over several fronts, including the cost of attending matches, with the average resale price for a group-stage ticket in Canada estimated between $700 and $900, well above what many fans can comfortably spend.
Government House Leader Steve Clark responds to concerns over 21-week adjournment
Recently, Ontario legislators wrapped up the spring sitting, beginning an approximately 21-week break that will keep the legislature closed until Oct. 27, the day after municipal elections are held across the province. The move has drawn criticism from some Ontarians who believe the legislature should sit longer. Government House Leader Steve Clark said he measures a parliamentary session by what is accomplished while members are in the chamber.
MP Barrett weighs in as Tim Hortons pledges to hire 10,000 local workers
Tim Hortons is pledging to reduce its reliance on the temporary foreign worker program and hire 10,000 local employees across Canada. The coffee chain began using the temporary foreign worker program during the COVID-19 pandemic to address labour shortages and have continued to rely on it. Local MP Michael Barrett welcomed the announcement, noting that he and his colleagues have been advocating for a major scaling back and redesign of the temporary foreign worker program for years.
Government House Leader Steve Clark responds to concerns over 21-week adjournment
On Tuesday, Ontario legislators wrapped up the spring sitting, beginning an approximate 21-week break that will keep the legislature closed until Oct. 27, the day after municipal elections are held across the province. The move has drawn criticism from some Ontarians who believe the legislature should sit longer. Government House Leader Steve Clark said he measures a parliamentary session by what is accomplished while members are in the chamber.
Government House Leader Steve Clark responds to concerns over 21-week adjournment
On Tuesday, Ontario legislators wrapped up the spring sitting, beginning an approximately 21-week break that will keep the legislature closed until Oct. 27, the day after municipal elections are held across the province. The move has drawn criticism from some Ontarians who believe the legislature should sit longer. Government House Leader Steve Clark said he measures a parliamentary session by what is accomplished while members are in the chamber.
Local MP reacts to steep drop in Canadians travelling to the United States
MP Michael Barrett (file photo) New data from researchers at the University of Toronto suggests travel to the United States by Canadians has dropped far more sharply than expected this year. Cell phone data compiled by the researchers found cross-border trips were down nearly 42 per cent compared with the same period last year. Local MP Michael Barrett says more Canadians are now choosing staycations and local tourism instead of heading south of the border.
MPP Clark responds to ongoing Leeds and Grenville health strike
MPP Steve Clark (File Photo) Local MPP Steve Clark is responding to the ongoing labour disruption caused by community health and social service workers in Leeds and Grenville. Workers are seeking fair wages that keep pace with inflation while continuing to support clients and the community. MPP Steve Clark stressed that it’s important people understand no funding to these agencies has been cut.
Local MP reacts to steep drop in Canadians travelling to the United States
New data from researchers at the University of Toronto suggests travel to the United States by Canadians has dropped far more sharply than expected this year. Cell phone data compiled by the researchers found cross-border trips were down nearly 42 per cent compared with the same period last year. Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett says more Canadians are now choosing staycations and local tourism instead of heading south of the border.
Local MPP responds to concerns over staffing cuts at Catholic District School Board
CUPE 4154 and the Ontario School Board Council of Unions are criticizing planned staffing cuts by the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, saying the changes could affect students and education workers across the region. The unions say close to 20 jobs and several student support services are at risk, impacting nearly 300 education workers. Local MPP Steve Clark responded to their concerns, saying layoff notices are given out every year until enrollment is confirmed.
Gardening expert shares simple ways to save money this season
skuji / Depositphotos.com Gardening season is underway, and gardening expert Carla Coville is encouraging people to grow their own food to help reduce grocery costs. Coville explained that investing in growing food at home can provide a positive return, especially as food prices continue to rise. https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2107/files/2026/05/051226-carla-coville-01.mp3 She stressed that research can benefit any gardener.
Local MP Michael Barrett says Prime Minister Mark Carney’s spring economic update lacks meaningful gas relief
Prime Minister Mark Carney and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne introduced their Spring Economic Statement earlier last week in Ottawa. The federal government said the update focuses on building a stronger and more resilient economy while offering targeted relief for Canadians facing high costs. Local Conservative MP Michael Barrett said he hoped for a greater focus on reducing fuel costs beyond the recent suspension of the gas excise tax.
Local MPP weighs in on new alcohol rules in Ontario parks
The Ontario government says it is easing alcohol rules in provincial parks ahead of the summer season. The change will take effect as parks open for spring and summer operations, allowing adults to drink in more areas beyond individual campsites. Officials say the move is meant to improve visitor experience and support tourism across the province. Local MPP Steve Clark says the government really listened to people with this change.
Local MP weighs in as Carney Liberals hit majority after by-election wins
MP Michael Barrett (file photo) Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals have secured a majority government after winning three by-elections held Monday. The votes were in two Toronto ridings and one in Quebec, lifting the Liberals to 174 seats in the House of Commons, while the Conservatives hold 140 seats. The result follows several floor crossings over the past six months, including four Conservatives and one NDP MP joining the Liberals.
Local MP weighs in as Carney Liberals hit majority after by-election wins
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals have secured a majority government after winning three by-elections held Monday. The votes were in two Toronto ridings and one in Quebec, lifting the Liberals to 174 seats in the House of Commons, while the Conservatives hold 140 seats. The result follows several floor crossings over the past six months, including four Conservatives and one NDP MP joining the Liberals.
Retired OPP officer’s anti-bullying mission grows as students rally and new paddle campaign begins
A retired officer with the Ontario Provincial Police is continuing his fight against bullying across Eastern Ontario. Craig McCormick recently wrapped up the fifth annual February awareness campaign tied to his “Take a Stand Lend a Hand” initiative, a program that encourages young people and communities to stand up for those facing bullying. He explained what the campaign is about.
Get your garden ready the right way this spring
Gardening season is nearly here, and gardening expert Carla Coville is sharing tips to help enthusiasts prepare early. Coville explained a common mistake many gardeners make before the season even begins. She emphasized that doing research will benefit any gardener. Understanding each plant’s needs, including sunlight, soil type, and compatibility with other plants, is essential. Coville also shared which vegetables are best to plant first.
Royal Canadian Legion turns 100 with a new offer
The Royal Canadian Legion is marking a major milestone in 2026 as it celebrates 100 years of service to Veterans and communities across Canada. Founded in 1925 at the Unity Conference, the Legion was created to support Veterans, advocate for their rights, and ensure Remembrance continues. Legion member Don Corneil said branches across Ontario are promoting a new offer this year.
Brockville radiothon raises huge total for hospital palliative care
The 2026 Palliative Care Radiothon in Brockville has raised $180,125 to support palliative care services at Brockville General Hospital. Organizers say the strong community backing will benefit patients and families for years to come. The full amount will go directly toward palliative care programs at the hospital. Trish Buote, executive director of the Brockville General Hospital Foundation, spoke about the significance of the final amount raised.
Here’s why it matters: Ontario pours $2.5 million into Merrickville water upgrades
The Ontario government is investing $2,558,216 to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure in Merrickville-Wolford, officials announced Wednesday. Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, said the municipality needed provincial support to move the project forward.
Royal Canadian Legion turns 100 with a new offer
The Royal Canadian Legion is marking a major milestone in 2026 as it celebrates 100 years of service to Veterans and communities across Canada. Founded in 1925 at the Unity Conference, the Legion was created to support Veterans, advocate for their rights, and ensure Remembrance continues. Legion member Don Corneil said branches across Ontario are promoting a new offer this year. He discussed some of the benefits of becoming a Legion member.
Local MP Supports Canadian Sovereignty Act
Local Conservative MP Michael Barrett says his party continues to promote policies it believes can help Canadians navigate ongoing economic uncertainty. One of those policies is the Canadian Sovereignty Act, introduced by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in August 2025. The proposal is aimed at strengthening Canada’s economic independence in response to foreign tariffs and what Conservatives describe as regulatory barriers.
G. Tackaberry and Family Home hailed as a game changer for Leeds & Grenville
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of the 192-bed, G. Tackaberry and Family Home on County Road 42 in Athens on Wednesday afternoon. The man behind it all, George Tackaberry said it means everything to him and his family. https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2107/files/2026/02/012826-tackaberry-athens-01.mp3 Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP, Steve Clark said it’s a game changer for long-term care in the area.
New year, new habits: Wellness expert shares tips to stick to resolutions
With almost half of January gone, many New Year’s resolutions are still going strong, but sticking to them can be a challenge. Julia Woito, Clinical Director and Registered Psychotherapist, is helping people turn good intentions into lasting habits. She explained that many people mistakenly believe motivation alone builds habits, but that isn’t true. Woito noted that it’s important to start small and stay consistent.
What’s good in Greater Napanee? New year, new habits - Wellness expert shares tips to stick to resolutions
socastcmsRssStart88.7 myFM News staffsocastcmsRssEnd With almost half of January gone, many New Year’s resolutions are still going strong, but sticking to them can be a challenge. Julia Woito, Clinical Director and Registered Psychotherapist, is helping people turn good intentions into lasting habits. She explained that many people mistakenly believe motivation alone builds habits, but that isn’t true.
Hard to shake: Addiction Awareness Week is underway
Addiction Awareness Week shines a light on local support services It’s National Addiction Awareness Week, and local organizations are working hard to spread awareness about addiction and the help available to those struggling with it. Chris Curry, Program Director of Planning and Implementation at Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (LLGAMH), says one of the biggest misconceptions about addiction is that it’s a choice.
Brockville family fundraiser helps 8-year-old with severe autism get service dog
A Brockville mother is celebrating a successful fundraiser to help her 8-year-old son Declan, who has severe autism, get a service dog. Allie DeDekker started a raffle fundraiser in September to raise money for Kingston 4 Paws Service Dogs, an organization that matches children with life-saving service dogs. Declan is non-verbal and communicates using single words or an iPad. Safety has been a concern, as he has a history of running into dangerous situations.
Small business leaders slam federal budget as “missed opportunity” for relief and growth
socastcmsRssStart88.7 myFM News staffsocastcmsRssEnd The federal budget was announced last week, and criticism came from multiple directions. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) continues to advocate for small businesses and small and medium sized entrepreneurs (SMEs), saying the budget failed to deliver meaningful tax relief.
Small business leaders slam federal budget as “missed opportunity” for relief and growth
The federal budget was announced last Tuesday, and criticism came from multiple directions. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) continues to advocate for small businesses and SMEs, saying the budget failed to deliver meaningful tax relief. Christina Santini, Director for National Affairs at CFIB, said one of the main changes they continue to seek is a reduction in the small business tax rate, which continues to hinder smaller enterprises.
Rain fall warning issued for the region as heavy rain expected across Eastern Ontario
socastcmsRssStart88.7 myFM News staffsocastcmsRssEnd Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for Greater Napanee, Lennox and Addington County, and all of Eastern Ontario as a powerful Texas low moves north. The agency says rain will begin Thursday morning and continue through Friday, with totals between 40 and 70 millimetres, with locally higher ammounts possible in some areas.
Rain fall warning issued for the region as heavy rain expected across Eastern Ontario
Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for Gananoque and all of Eastern Ontario as a powerful Texas low moves north. The agency says rain will begin Thursday morning and continue through Friday, with totals between 40 and 70 millimetres, with locally higher amounts possible in some areas. Senior Climatologist David Phillips with Environment Canada says the storm is the latest in a wetter-than-usual October following an unusually dry spring and summer.
Flood risk expands across Eastern Ontario as heavy rain moves in Thursday
Environment Canada has expanded its flood risk warning to include Ottawa and all of Eastern Ontario as a powerful Texas low moves north. The agency says rain will begin Thursday morning and continue through Friday, with totals between 25 and 50 millimetres - and up to 60 in some areas. Senior Climatologist David Phillips with Environment Canada says the storm is the latest in a wetter-than-usual October following an unusually dry spring and summer. Phillips highlighted where the storm will hit.
U.S. to photograph local travellers at border crossings starting in December
Residents who cross into the United States at nearby border points like Ogdensburg and Alexandria Bay will soon be photographed when they enter and leave the country. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced a new rule taking effect December 26 requiring all non-U.S. citizens, including Canadians, to take part in a facial biometrics program. The system will use cameras at land crossings, airports and seaports to confirm travellers’ identities and record entry and exit times.
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