News

Bi Visibility Day

September 23rd is Bi Visibility Day. First officially observed in 1999, this day recognize and celebrate bisexual people, the bisexual community, and the history of bisexuality. Bisexuality can be defined as being attracted to one's own gender as well as other genders. Or being attracted not exclusively to people of one particular gender.

This celebration of bisexuality in particular, as opposed to general LGBT events, was conceived as a response to the prejudice and marginalization of bisexual...

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Last weekend to enjoy the Splash Pad

Yahoo Park's splash pad will be closing on Monday, September 25th. Make the most of this weekend for some splashing fun! We hope you've had a fantastic time at the expanded park this year.

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Russell Township Fire Services Honors Chief Bruce Armstrong

Russell, ON — On Saturday, September 16, 2023, the Russell Township Fire Services gathered in a heartwarming ceremony to pay tribute to Fire Chief Bruce Armstrong for his longstanding dedication and remarkable contributions to the Russell community and the Fire Services. As a symbol of their deep appreciation, the fire station has been officially renamed the "Bruce Armstrong Fire Station."

Chief Armstrong's journey with the Russell Fire Department began in 1992, and over the years, he exhibited...

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Public Skating Begins September 23

Sharpen your skates!  After weeks of preparation, the Embrun and Russell arenas are ready for the winter season.

Our free regular schedule for public skating and shinny hockey sessions begins on Saturday September 23, 2023. Find the weekly schedule on our Arenas and Skating webpage. 

*A special PD day session is available Friday September 22nd, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. in Embrun and from 2:00-3:00 p.m. in Russell.

The outdoor rinks are not open yet for the winter season.

To rent ice time, view ice availability...

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Explore the Russell Township Business Directory

Russell Township, nestled in the heart of Eastern Ontario, is a vibrant community known for its picturesque landscapes, close-knit neighborhoods, and a thriving local business scene. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, discovering the hidden gems of this beautiful township has just become easier with the launch of our brand-new Russell Township Business Directory at www.russell.ca/directory.

This exciting new platform will connect you with local businesses, products, and services via a...

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Dr. Steve Mihok Receives Community Builder Award

On September 11th 2023, Council had the pleasure of presenting a Community Builder Award to Dr. Steve Mihok for his active participation in the local music scene and for his environmental engagement within our community.

Notably, we would like to highlight his selfless efforts to rid vulnerable populations of the scourge of biting insects, not only in his local community, but in a number of disadvantaged communities in Africa and elsewhere.

As part of the Citizen Recognition Program, we have:

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Contest: Test Your Smoke Alarm

Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, is Ontario's first Test Your Smoke Alarm Day!
All Ontarians are encouraged to learn more about smoke alarms, fire safety, and home fire escape planning, which could save you and your loved ones. Most importantly, we want you to test your smoke alarms!

Having working smoke alarms won't just save your life – it's the law.

Every home in Ontario is required by law to have working smoke alarms on every story and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, install working...

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Invitation to Symposium

*Please note that this Symposium is offered in French only.
The Council of the Township of Russell is proud to sponsor seven participants for this event. If you are a resident of the municipality and are interested in participating, please send an e-mail to info@russell.ca with the following information:

• Full Name
• E-mail address
• Phone number
• Organization name (if applicable)
• Job title (if applicable)
• Food allergies (if applicable)
• Regular or vegetarian lunch box?

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Township of Russell Appoints New Chief Administrative Officer

Embrun, Ontario, September 11, 2023 —The Township of Russell is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chief Administrative Officer, effective immediately.

Council appointed Richard Godin as the Township’s new Chief Administrative Officer at the regular meeting of September 11, 2023. The appointment follows an extensive search process that garnered over 30 applications. The search for his replacement as Director of Corporate Services will also begin shortly.

Richard Godin has been a...

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World Suicide Prevention Day

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. It is an opportunity to focus on reducing stigma about mental health and raising awareness on how suicide can be prevented. Even small actions can make a huge difference.
‘Creating Hope Through Action’ is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us; that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling. Preventing suicide is often possible and you are a...

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Bowling Hall – Re-Opening

We are pleased to announce that after a brief summer hiatus, the bowling alley is reopening on Friday, September 8th, 2023, to provide a fun and local bowling experience. Lace up your bowling shoes, gather your friends and family, and head down to the lanes for a striking good time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual bowler, the alleys are open and ready to welcome you back with a renewed energy. So, grab a bowling ball, aim for that perfect score, and let the good times roll!

Hours of...

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You Are Invited: Unveiling of Winning Photographs for the 2023 Photo Expo

From June 16 to August 21, hobbyist, amateur, and professional photographers were invited to submit their images for the Township of Russell Photo Exhibition with the theme “Stillness.” This year was a huge success, receiving over 100 submissions from our community and beyond!

You are invited to join us for the unveiling of the winning photographs from this year’s Township of Russell Photo Contest and Expo!

• Date: Saturday, September 16, 2023
• Time: 11:45 a.m.
• Location: Autumn in the Country Arts...

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2024 Budget: Public Consultation

Think about the Township of Russell in 2024 and beyond. What should guide the direction of our community?

Take our short survey by September 30th, 2023.

• Share your feedback at our public consultation September 11th, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.
• Send your suggestions by email to the Clerk’s department by September 30th, 2023.

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2023 Fall Program and Activity Guide

Our Fall Program and Activity Guide is now available. We are offering yoga, pickleball, dance classes, workshops, and more! View the full guide at www.russell.ca/programs and look for a paper copy coming to your mailbox in the coming week!

Registration dates:

• Adult programs: Residents – Starting August 28, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
• Adult programs: Non-Residents – Starting September 1, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
• Children & youth programs: Residents – Starting August 30, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
• Children & youth programs:...

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Township of Russell Appoints Interim CAO

Richard Godin has been appointed as the interim Chief Administrative Officer for the Township of Russell effective August 19th, 2023.

Township of Russell Council appointed the interim CAO at the special council meeting of August 17th, 2023 following the imminent departure of current CAO, Dan Faughnan.

Richard Godin has been with the Township of Russell as the Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer for over nine years.
“Council is confident that Richard Godin and our Department Heads will...

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2023 Paving Projects Underway

We want to inform you that our dedicated crew has started paving projects within our Township. Your safety is our top priority, so we kindly ask for your cooperation during this time.

Please drive carefully and follow these precautions:

• Reduce your speed when approaching construction areas.
• Maintain a safe distance from construction equipment and workers.
• Obey all posted signs and signals.
• Expect temporary changes in traffic patterns.

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Landscaping Now Completed at Snow Disposal Facility

The Township of Russell’s snow disposal facility now includes 400 newly planted trees! This landscaping completes the final stage of our snow disposal facility.

Earlier this spring, the Infrastructure Department also built bird habitats to help protect the barn swallow species and compensate for the removal of some of their previous habitats. The habitats are equipped with nesting cups and protect the birds from weather and predators.

This site, located just past our dog park, includes a snow pad...

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Grand Opening of Yahoo Park Splash Pad Addition

On Saturday July 22, 2023 the official inauguration of the Yahoo Park Splash Pad addition was held at 2, Marcel Street in Embrun. Organized by the Embrun Optimist Club, this event brought the community together for a morning filled with laughter, refreshments, and, of course, splashing in the water!

With a total expense of $66,645.27, this project was funded through community effort. The mayor’s contribution from his “selfie with the mayor campaign” brought in $17,727.00, while the Optimist Club...

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Notice of Study Commencement

Public Notice - July 19, 2023

Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study Master Plan Update for Russell Township Water and Wastewater Systems

The Corporation of the Township of Russell (Township) is initiating a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA)
study to update its 2016 Water and Wastewater Master Plan.

The 2016 Master Plan outlined a 20-year strategy for water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades based on growth forecasted at the time. Since the completion of the 2016 Master Plan, the...

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National Drowning Prevention Week 2023

The Lifesaving Society’s National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW) takes place July 16 to 22, 2023. During this week, we wish to focus community attention on the drowning problem and drowning prevention.

• With over 450 Canadians drowning in preventable water-related incidents annually, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death among Canadians under 60+ years of age. Even one drowning is one too many.
• The age groups with the highest risk of...

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