The most wonderful time of the year – let’s keep it safe
For parents, the first day of school can feel a bit like Christmas morning. As the old song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” and Staples even turned it into a cheeky commercial years ago – parents gliding down store aisles while their kids trailed behind, unimpressed.
But behind the humour, late August and early September in Orléans brings a serious responsibility. The backpacks are swinging, the buses are rolling, and our streets are once again filled with children walking, biking, and crossing to get to school. This is a season of optimism but also one that demands vigilance.
Every year, we talk about safety in school zones. And every year, some drivers still treat speed limits like suggestions. They roll stop signs. They pass stopped school buses and ignore crossing guards paid to keep our kids safe. Let’s be clear: this behaviour isn’t just careless – it’s dangerous and illegal.
Driving is not a right. It’s a privilege, and with it comes the responsibility to protect everyone sharing the road especially our youngest and most vulnerable neighbours. In Orléans, we’ve reduced speed limits in school zones, created community safety zones, and increased enforcement in high-risk areas. Cities have more tools than ever before to make our streets safe for our kids. These aren’t gimmicks. They’re tools designed to protect lives. But they only work if drivers choose to respect them.
We expect professionalism and care from anyone responsible for public safety. Behind the wheel, that same standard should apply. A driver rushing through a school zone is no different from someone cutting corners in a hospital or on a construction site. The risk is real, and the consequences can be life-changing.
As a father and as your Member of Provincial Parliament, my message is simple: Slow down. Pay attention. Respect the flashing lights on the school bus. The few minutes you think you’re saving are never worth a lifetime of regret. Ask yourself: what if it were your child?
As the school year begins, I want to recognize the incredible contributions of our educators, support staff, and families in shaping the future of our youth. My best wishes go to all students, teachers, and school communities across Orléans as they embark on a year filled with learning, discovery, and growth.
Let’s make this school year not only successful in the classroom, but safe on the roads. Our children deserve nothing less.
TRIVIA NIGHT every Tuesday night at the Royal Oak Pub Orléans from 7:30 p.m. Free to play and prize for the winning team! The Royal Oak is located at 1981 St. Joseph Blvd. near the corner of Jeanne d’Arc Blvd. For more information visit 
ORLEANS FARMERS MARKET every Thursday from 11 am to 4 pm in the parking lot at the Ray Friel Recreation Centre on Tenth Line Road. Shop the freshest seasonal produce, meat and dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts and more while getting to know the folks who grew and made it.
THE STRAY DOG BREWING COMPANY presents Emma Houlahan and Tim Loten, together known as Bin Echo, live and in concert from 8 p.m. Tickets $10 in advance and 415 at the door. The Stray Dog Brewing Company is located at 501 Lacolle Way in the Taylor Creek Business Park.
CUMBERLAND FARMERS MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with 85 local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION.
