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Vol. 4
No. 2
YOUR INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWSPAPER - LANARK, NORTH LEEDS & GRENVILLE
FEBRUARY 2017
Tweed factory in Smiths Falls braces for explosive growth
Mark Zekulin, president of Canopy Growth, Tweed’s parent company, expects legalization of marijuana to have a massive impact on the company’s continuing growth. Photo Credit: Chris Must
Smiths Falls - Chris Must
editorial@pdgmedia.ca The success that the Tweed factory in Smiths Falls has enjoyed in its short history so far is sure to be eclipsed by the explosive growth that is expected to follow the legalization of marijuana in Canada. Although marijuana has been illegal in Canada since 1923, when it was prohibited without much debate, attitudes have evolved over the past few decades. Today the federal government is moving to legalize marijuana for recreational use. That move, company president Mark Zekulin says, will have a “massive impact.” As the 2016 annual report from Canopy Growth, Tweed’s parent company,
states: “With medical marijuana already legal in Canada and producers like Tweed and Bedrocan Canada having production and distribution experience in the medical sphere, there has never been a greater opportunity for growth in the cannabis space.” The report notes that a recent poll conducted by the Globe and Mail showed that 68 per cent of Canadians “now consider recreational legalization to be a sensible approach.” Since Tweed commenced operations in the vacant factory complex formerly occupied by Hershey Canada, Smiths Falls has been home to the largest indoor marijuana growing facility in the world. Cyril Cooper, manag-
er of economic development for the town of Smiths Falls, said legalization of marijuana for recreation would see the town flooded with media, investors, and new residents wanting to move to the community. “Once it’s legalized, we’ll be inundated,” said Cooper. Tweed expects that production will be expanded with plenty of room for growth within the existing facility. Although edible marijuana products are not currently legal in Canada, legalization would open the door to the development and marketing of a variety of new products. On Jan. 10, Tweed hosted a group of visitors from the local business, arts and cultural community. Company Director of Communications
Jordan Sinclair told the group that Tweed is the only publicly traded company that has ever been headquartered in Smiths Falls. Tweed currently has 168,000 square feet of growing space, using about 30 per cent of the total space available within the old Hershey complex. New construction is still underway throughout the plant. The company is hiring new staff every month, and recently surpassed the 200-employee milestone. “There are new faces every time you walk through the halls,” said Sinclair. According to Sinclair, Tweed has already seen encouraging signs through the growth of the market for medical marijuana. “When we started this business, less than one per cent of doctors issued prescriptions for cannabis,” he said. “Now it’s 10 per cent, so we’re moving the needle.” The company has seen 40 per cent growth from one quarter to the next for two years, according to Sinclair. New records are being set constantly for the number of shipments going out in a day. As required by the company’s licence to operate a growing facility, security at the Tweed plant is very tight and set up in multiple layers each requiring authorization to access. As well, employees working with marijuana plants wear special shoes and clothing including masks, gloves and hairnets to minimize the threat of disease to the plants. “A clean growing environment is the best way to start,”
said Sinclair. The Tweed operation includes separate rooms for growing marijuana, a room for extracting oil from plants, and a final “trim room” where dry buds are trimmed in preparation for shipment to medical marijuana customers. Tweed grows cannabis sativa and cannabis indica plants, and a variety of hybrids of both. Cuttings from mature plants are used for propagation. Finished product ready for shipment is stored in a steel vault with a combination lock. The combination is frequently changed. No oil extractor specifically for marijuana is available anywhere in the world, so Tweed’s extractor was custom made by a company that normally manufactures equipment for extracting caffeine from coffee beans. Sinclair said marijuana is a product that has been in
existence for a long time, but the industry is still in the process of learning about it. The manufacturers feel that their product is a good alternative to highly-addictive opioids. “It doesn’t cure anything,” said Sinclair. “It’s a symptom management tool. There is a business case for saying this is cheaper than other medicines.” The company is currently working on a new product: cannabis capsules. Capsules will aid physicians in prescribing medical marijuana, since doctors “don’t know how to prescribe something you smoke,” said Sinclair. The product is expected to be launched this month. Sinclair said Tweed originally approached many communities in deciding where to locate its plant, but found Smiths Falls the most welcoming. “Dennis Staples, the former mayor, is a friend of Tweed, big time,” said Sinclair.
Marijuana plants are grown under carefully controlled conditions in a sterile environment.. Photo Credit: Chris Must
lifestyle
business
community
Perth Outfitters welcomes skaters to its 400-metre skate trail through the forest.
New denture clinic opening in Perth in March
Perth's task force on local climate change hired Sean Campbell to act as the local climate change plan coordinator..
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Page Two
February 2017
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Letter from our Editor
February is here and with that comes the semi-debated Valentine’s Day. Do you think it’s an occasion to mark on the calendar or just a mid-winter day for retailers to cash in on? Word on the Street this month (by Jane Hobson on page 5) discusses just this topic. I’m not a diehard romantic but I do like to do a little something special on Valentine’s Day. Early on in my relationship, I really just looked forward to a gift of sorts. But now, after almost 17 years, I’m less con-
cerned with gifts (although I wouldn’t say no!) and more interested in making sure my partner knows how much I love him. Something simple like a love note dropped in a lunch bag, a favourite drink or treat waiting for when he gets home. In my experience, these little acts can go great distances. I can honestly say though, both of us make a regular effort to make sure the other knows they aren’t taken for granted. We have regular date nights, play softball together in the summer and cuddle on the couch almost nightly. I think if Valentine’s Day is the only time you take to connect with your loved one, you’ll likely end up spending many a Valentine’s Day alone. There are so many exciting things a couple can do together throughout our region, no matter if
you love Valentine’s Day or think it’s a crock. Check out the new skate trail in Perth, that would make for a fun time (more about this on pg. 7) or take a hike with the Rideau Trail Association, like one of your new writers did. Read about Alexandra Mazur’s mini-adventure on page 5. Showing someone you care doesn’t mean making a big production, you don’t even need to go out. On your way home from work or errands, pick up a bottle of wine to share. If you’re like me and don’t know the good stuff from the not so great, turn to page 6 for sommelier Mark Cochrane’s suggestions. If you struggle to make time for that one person in your life that you truly love, use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to get started — like people do with Jan.1 to start their diets — and keep the momentum going.
We’re hiring!
A Blast from the Past:
From the Lanark & District Museum Collection
Hometown News is looking for reliable freelance writers to cover events and news within the communities of Carleton Place and Almonte/Mississippi Mills. This is a flexible gig but we are looking for someone who is interested in writing at least three to four articles per month. We are interested in writers who a) want to write about the happenings in these communities and b) are able to generate story ideas from these communities. We pay a flat rate per article, average article length is 500 words. If interested please contact April (april@pdgmedia.ca) with writing samples.
Skate the Lake 2017
Mississippi River Log Drive – Taken in 1915 Photo Credit: Lanark & District Museum Collection
Hometownnews
Publisher
Reporters:
Patricia Krotki pmkrotki@pdgmedia.ca
editorial@pdgmedia.ca Kathy Botham Sarah Cavanagh Jane Hobson Chris Must Sally Smith
EditoR April Scott-Clarke april@pdgmedia.ca
Portland’s famous Skate the Lake event took place on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29. Visit hometownews.ca for more great photos from the event. Photo Credit: Luke Kroeker, Photographer - KroekerPhoto.ca
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February 2017
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community Perth welcomes Mayor's climate Sm it hs Fa l ls tow n st a f f pre sent community grant recommendations change task force coordinator Smiths Falls - Chris Must editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Perth Mayor John Fenik (left) and climate change task force coordinator Sean Campbell pose for a photo in the mayor’s office in before a task force meeting on Jan. 20, 2017. Photo Credit: Jane Hobson.
Perth - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a To help combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the Perth Mayor’s task force on local climate change hired Sean Campbell to act as the Local Climate Change Plan coordinator. Campbell’s contract runs January to September 2017. “I’m excited to learn from the community and the task force,” said Campbell, who has a masters of environmental studies in sustainability management from the University of Waterloo. “I look forward to supporting the Town of Perth in the development of a climate action plan that positions [Perth] as an environmental leader.” Campbell says he has always been interested in the environment and the connection between the way people live and how the natural environment responds. Perth Mayor John Fenik created the climate change task force after the last municipal election to help the community start thinking about its global climate change impact. “If small town’s make the effort by changing the way we act locally, then we can make a big difference,” Fenik said. “I think we need to make a stand and lead by example.” The Mayor’s Task Force on Local Climate Change encourages making Perth a Green Community, which is part of the town’s strategic plan. Green Communities Canada is a national association of community organizations working to reduce their impact on the environment. This means planning, building or modifying communi-
ties to promote sustainable living. Perth will also create a climate change action plan that will give some direction to the town’s activities over the next decade, Fenik said. The plan will be developed with council, the climate change task force and the community at large. The municipal green plan, which is currently in its infancy, aims to significantly reduce the GHG footprint and stimulate local economic development. A final draft of the plan is scheduled for presentation at council in March 2017. A few things included in the municipal green plan is developing GHG reduction targets and identifying actions that make it possible to meet those reduction targets. Some of these actions could include electric or smaller more economical vehicles for the town with electric charging stations. “We have about 68 kilometres of roads that we have to cover in Perth so electric vehicles would make sense,” Fenik said. “The new Ford E 150 is an electric truck that could be a good match for us.” Water and sewage facility audits, the development of walking and cycling routes and a home-owner tree planting program may also be part of the plan. A facility energy audit by Honeywell is scheduled for the Perth Town Hall in 2017. “Yes, the audit will help save on utilities and costs, but it also makes a building much more comfortable. Warmer, dryer, less of a draft, things like that,” Campbell said. “It’s important to note that mitigating climate change
is more than just lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It is improving biking and walking paths and preserving the natural and built environments of Perth.” Fenik said the town plans to follow up with an outcome-monitoring program that will indicate how the whole process is going in summer 2017. “It’s really about updating the tech now that better stuff is available, and we know that the new technology is more energy efficient and less-harmful for the environment,” Fenik said. For example, the pool and arena could receive some updated, energy efficient technology very soon. Phase three of the municipal green plan ensures that the plan is designed well so Perth residents and the Town of Perth can actually act on it. “For example, there’s a lot of organic garbage in the landfill that could be recycled instead. Even that small change would help,” Campbell said. Fenik says he hopes the Mayor’s Task Force on Local Climate Change will decrease the attitude of doom and gloom that often surrounds discussions of climate change. “If we make small changes, big things can happen,” he said. “I want my grandkids to know that I took a stand for something and they have to inherit that and pass it down.” In five years, Fenik and Campbell said they would like to see Perth — and the global environment — in a better place than it is now. Campbell said he hopes Perth’s action plans can act as blueprints for other small towns.
There are some winners and some losers after a team of Smiths Falls town staff members completed a review of applications from local groups seeking funds from the community donations program. At council’s request, all grants of less than $10,000 will be awarded based on staff recommendations. The evaluation team scores the applications using a matrix to determine whether the applicants qualify, and whether the organization’s goals align with the town’s strategic objectives. To be eligible for town grants, an organization must be a not-for-profit operation
located within the town. Although the amounts to be awarded under the program are not final until council approves the 2017 budget, the evaluation team of Chief Administrative Officer Malcolm Morris, Director of Community Services Art Manhire and Director of Corporate Services Kerry Costello have prepared a written summary of their recommendations. The report recommends the following: $9,000 be provided to the Healthy Living Festival, $4,000 to Rideau Paddlefest, $2,500 to the Smiths Falls Gordon Pipe Band, $5,000 to the Smiths Falls and District Club for Youth,
$5,800 to Together Smiths Falls, $6,000 to the Rideau Environmental Action League, $26,000 to the Smiths Falls Aquatic Recreation Centre, $2,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters; and $600 to the Smiths Falls Horticultural Society. Staff concluded that applications from the Rideau Ferry Yacht Club, Rolling Thunder Car Club, Smiths Falls and District Crime Stoppers, and the Lanark County Community Justice Program did not meet the eligibility requirements. Councillors expressed a desire to increase the amount given to the youth club. They also asked staff to work with Crime Stoppers to submit a
A sold out success for Crime Stoppers annual fundraiser
Crime Stoppers Carl Evoy, Legion’s Past President Keith Anderson and Treasurer Jane Anderson. Photo Credit: Kathy Botham
Smiths Falls - Kathy Botham editorial@pdgmedia.ca The Doherty Brothers played in front of a soldout crowd at the Smiths Falls Legion on Saturday, Jan.28 in support of Crime Stoppers in Smiths Falls. This annual event is one of Crime Stoppers biggest fundraisers. There was a silent auction and ano-
ther unique fundraiser where people bought balloons and burst balloons. Each balloon had a number on the inside that coordinated with a prize. Smiths Falls Legion Past President Keith Anderson and Treasurer Jane Anderson presented Crime Stoppers with a $500 cheque and following this presentation, Crime Stoppers made one to Consta-
ble David Murphy from the Smiths Falls Police Department. Murphy has been one of the coordinators and will be stepping aside. He was presented with a plaque and thanked for his years of service to Crime Stoppers. Crimestoppers encourages people who may know of a crime to call 1 800 222-TIPS (8477).
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February 2017
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Smiths Falls welcoming Irish visitors this summer Smiths Falls - Chris Must editorial@pdgmedia.ca As Canada celebrates the 150th anniversary of Confederation this year, Smiths Falls will be embracing a vital part of its history – the Irish connection. In 1871, 63 per cent of the residents of Smiths Falls and the surrounding townships were Irish. Today the town is officially twinned with Carnew, a small community in County Wicklow. From June 23 to July 2, Smiths Falls will host a group of visitors from Carnew who will be hoping to learn more about the lives their relatives led after they came to the new world in the 19th century. Over a dozen Irish
visitors have signed up for the tour so far, and Smiths Falls has made plans to host up to 30 or more. The town is hoping the Irish visitors will “experience some of the beauty and culture that we’re able to experience every day living here,” said Mayor Shawn Pankow. “A lot of them are coming because they’re interested in tracing their family history,” said Ingrid Bron, the town’s coordinator of tourism and economic development. Smiths Falls has been officially twinned with the town of Carnew since July 18, 2016, when a formal resolution was passed. The initiative began two years
ago, when Kevin Lee, a historian from Ireland, visited Smiths Falls and observed that many of the family names seen on markers in local cemeteries are similar to those of the families that were forced to migrate to Canada in the mid-19th century during the Potato Famine. Some of those family names are: Dagg, Doyle, Eagers, Jackson, Murphy, Pearson, Pierce, Rickby, Tallant, Tallon, Timmons, and Whelan. One other notable family is the Balfes, who settled on the land which is now occupied by the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club. The fireplace in the clubhouse is built of stone from the
original buildings. Original settler Thomas Balfe died in 1882 at the age of 78. The town of Carnew is the location of the former Coollattin Estate once owned by the powerful Earl Fitzwilliam. Throughout the first six decades of the 19th century there was a constant exodus of tenants from the earl’s land to Upper Canada, including the local region. From the mid-1830s onward Fitzwilliam assisted thousands of his tenants in finding a new life across the Atlantic. From 1847 to 1856, about 6,000 people were evicted from the Coollatin Estate. According to information from the town, Fitzwilliam arranged for the passage of these tenants, many of whom settled in the Smiths Falls area, finding work on the railways and establishing farms in the area. In recognition of the link between Carnew and the Smiths Falls area, an organization called the Coollattin Canadian Collection was officially launched in Carnew in 2015 by Cana-
dian ambassador to Ireland Kevin Vickers. The organization helps the descendants of emigrants seek out knowledge of their family history. Last summer Mayor Pankow paved the way for this year’s visit by travelling to Carnew on a family vacation, with his wife Tracey and children Shawna, James, and Tatiana. Pankow said his mother’s family originally came from Wexford, the county next to Wicklow, dating back to 1814. The mayor said one of the highlights of his family’s trip was the opportunity to view a holographic re-enactment of the Battle of Vinegar Hill which took place during the brief Rebellion of 1798. The family was suitably impressed by the natural beauty of the “Emerald Isle,” and found that the local people were very caring, and “very similar to people here.” Pankow said he is confident that this summer’s visitors from Ireland will succeed in reconnecting
with some of their long-lost relatives. Some highlights of the June 23-July 2 trip will include the opportunity for the Irish visitors to attend a number of local Canada 150 events: the Highland on the Rideau Music Festival and Smiths Falls Triathlon on June 24, the visit of the Voyageur Canoe Brigade to Smiths Falls on June 27, a golf tournament and gala dinner at the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club June 28, a performance by the Steel City Rovers at the Station Theatre June 30, and Canada Day festivities July 1. The busy itinerary also includes opportunities for the visitors to explore the archives at Heritage House museum, visit homesteads, churches and cemeteries in surrounding communities, visit the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, and tour the Rideau Canal. Plans also include an Irish cultural celebration the evening of June 24 with music by Gaelic Storm.
New mill produces unique textiles, dog wool included Coollattin House was the home of Earl Fitzwilliam, owner of the Coollattin Estates. Many of the earl’s tenants emigrated to the Smiths Falls area in the first half of the 19th century. Mayor Shawn Pankow and his family visited the former estate last summer. Photo Credit: Tracey Pankow.
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Matthew Noble, owner of Noble Fibre Mill, in his home-based mill. Photo submitted.
REGIONAL - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a In the 1820s immigrants from Scotland began to settle in Lanark, naming it Lanark after Lanark, Scotland. Joined by many Irish immigrants, the lumber and textile industry in Lanark flourished by the mid-1850s. Many textile mills in the area stayed open and in business until the late 1990s but eventually closed shop. But, after a few decades of stagnant textile production in Lanark Highlands, there’s a new fibre mill in town. Located at 486 Upper Perth Road, Noble Fibre Mill produces local and exotic fibre rovings. “It just makes sense for the history of the area – and there’s no other mill close by,” said Matthew Noble, the owner of Noble Fibre Mill. “We renovated our basement and double car garage into the mill.” Noble and his wife, Lori, opened their mill in the spring of 2016. “Getting the machines set up was the most surreal
moment of the whole thing so far. And the first customer, that was an amazing feeling too,” Noble said. Along with making the typical sheep wool and alpaca fleece, Noble Fibre Mill can also produce dog fur textiles that can be made into cozy blankets. “It’s unusual but a lot of people like it. You need a couple pounds of fur – which actually takes quite a while to collect,” Noble laughs. Noble Fibre Mill is a member of the Ottawa Valley Weavers’ and Spinners’ Guild. “It’s a niche market but there’s a larger [textile] community here than people think,” Noble says, adding that people are starting to use woollen products for more everyday purposes. For example, lots of people twist their wool into a tight ball, about the size of a tennis ball, and substitute it for a dryer sheet. It’s more efficient than one-time-use dryer sheets. The mill also produces rug yarn, which is a thick, chunky yarn that is weaved into a rug. Noble says his family has
been in the fibre and roving industry for decades. Located in Prince Edward Island, Noble’s parents’ own Belfast MiniMills Ltd., a company that designs and manufactures fibre-processing machines, like spindle spinners and winders. Belfast Mini-Mill also produces a wide range of fibres from skunk, dog and human hair, Noble says, adding that they have been running the whole operation for about two decades. All of the machinery at Noble Fibre Mill is Canadian manufactured from Noble’s family. “It was great because I already had a knowledge base,” Noble says. “We couldn’t have done this without [my parents’] support.” “We’re small scale but we’ll service anybody with wool or fibre,” says Noble. It takes Noble Fibre Mill about one to two weeks before the product is ready for pick up. In comparison, larger commercial mills sometimes have a six-month waiting periods before a producer gets their product back. Noble puts in about 60 hours at the mill any given week. “Hopefully in about four years Noble Fibre Mill will have a store as well. Maybe in Almonte, maybe Perth or Ottawa,” he says. “We’re hoping to get into spun products, like yarn which can be knitted or weaved, in the future.” Speaking of the future, Noble says he hopes Noble Fibre Mill will compliment Lanark’s local economy. “Clients are invited to come in to take a tour.”
February 2017
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community
WORD ON THE STREET Regional - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a Every year, millions of people around the world celebrate their relationships on Feb.14. Some people plan an extravagant night out with sparkly presents while others keep it low-key by cuddling up, ordering food and watching a flick. Regardless of what the plan is — or isn’t — many people don’t even know who this Saint Valentine guy is. That’s probably because it’s tough to trace the exact traditions and roots of this lovely holiday. The Catholic Church celebrates at least three
different martyred saints named Valentine or Valentinus, says history.com. For the sake of maintaining a mostly light-hearted energy here, the focus will be on a third century Roman priest. The legend suggests Priest Valentine performed secret marriages for young couples after Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage for young men. He wanted the single guys to become soldiers instead of getting hitched. When Claudius found out about the secret marriages, he was so mad he ordered Priest Valentine be put to death. Centuries later it’s hard to justify the consumerism
“A few years ago I went skating on the canal with two girlfriends for Valentine’s Day. We looked at the art under the bridges as we skated and then we went to an Indian restaurant in the Glebe. My one friend who loves spicy food had a dish that was way too spicy and she could barely eat it. So we all had a good laugh. It’s the simple pleasures in life. It’s about spending time with the people you love — even if they aren’t a significant other.” – Jasmine Glover. Photo Credit: Jane Hobson.
that surrounds Valentine’s Day as celebrating a priest who may or may not have stuck-it-to-the-man. Maybe Valentine’s Day is celebrated to remember that even in the face of intimidating super powers — either a war-hungry emperor or mass-consumerism — it’s still important to encourage and support love. So whether it’s elementary students exchanging cards, a group of friends grabbing a drink or a full-on date night with a significant other, Valentine’s Day is a great day to celebrate love of all kinds. Here’s a few Valentine’s day memories to get you in the celebratory mood.
“Last year he asked me to eat a heart-shaped pizza and watch movies. He just wanted to hang out with me in my little apartment and ignore the commercial part of Valentine’s Day. I said no because we weren’t dating. Now we live together and guess what we’re doing for Valentine’s Day? Eating heart-shaped pizza and watching movies.” – Katya Ells. Photo Credit: Katya Ells.
“Last year it was just another day on the calendar. I was single so I was indifferent. Now that I’m dating Maya I want to spend a day with her and spoil her. She’s away at school on Feb. 14 so we’ll celebrate when she gets home. Spending time is the important thing — the day doesn’t really matter.” – Cody Crane. Photo Credit: Maya Hendry.
“The kids were always part of our Valentine’s Day plans. It was always something completely non-commercial like someone else making dinner or ordering dinner to the house. Allen used to make me these corny cards. He made them at work before he got home. I keep them all in this box.” – Jo-Anne Jacques. Photo Credit: Jane Hobson.
Take a hike with the Rideau Trail Association
Regional - Alexandra Mazur
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Every week, groups of people set out on a joint journey to discover the wilderness that surrounds the length of Rideau Canal and its tributaries. This adventurous bunch belongs to the Rideau Trail Association (RTA), a charitable organization that has been running since its inception in 1971, when students from Queen’s University were tasked with mapping out a trail that ran from Kingston to Ottawa. This 387 km system of trails has been trekked lovingly over the last several decades by the now nearly 900 members of the RTA. There are three clubs that gather
to explore their regions: the Ottawa club, the Kingston club, and the Central club, the latter covering ground from Lally Homestead to Rosedale near Smiths Falls. The Central club, though smaller than its two counterparts, makes up for it in dedication to their craft. I had the pleasure of going out on my first winter expedition with the RTA on Jan. 28, in the ups and downs of Foley Mountain looking over Westport. I brought along a companion for support, and it was clear that we were newbies, since we showed up with only snowshoes, whereas the rest of the eleven hikers came with the choice of snowshoes or boot-spikes (icers); unfortunately for us, it was a boot-
spike kind of day. Nevertheless we were welcomed with open arms. Although we were hiking nearly eight kilometres that day in wet snow (what the group would call a level two difficulty hike), the Central club isn’t the type to leave their fellow hikers behind. Our hike leader was Jack Tennant, relative new to the club himself, having only joined in 2014. But Tennant quickly climbed to the ranks of hike leader and deputy chair of the Central club. He’s known to some as the Passionate Hiker, which is the name of the blog he uses to chronicle his outings. Tennant was as knowledgeable as he was swift, leading us at a steady pace through our three
hour hike up what he called “heart-attack hill” (which we had to climb twice) and out to Spy Rock, where we caught a spectacular view of Westport down below. Anna Cornel was the day’s sweeper. It was her responsibility to make sure that no one fell behind. Cornel used to be a physician and is now a RTA guide in training, and judging by Tennant’s praise of her at the end of the hike, she’ll soon rise up the ranks as well. We set off, and we weren’t five minutes into the hike when Howard Robinson, a RTA hike leader and also a member of the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalist club, identified two young bald eagles hovering high above the mountainside. We travelled a bit farther and we encountered two deer watching us in the distance. But the most astounding brush with wildlife happened when we reached the beach. As we looked out across the frozen lake, a coyote darted from the edge of the mountain off in the distance. We called after it, but nothing could keep the coyote off its course. There we all stood on the edge of the ice watching the lone coyote race across the length of bay, and disappear into the woods again. The trail eventually led us to the beginning of the Rideau Trail itself, where we discussed who had been with
Central club members ready themselves for the day's hike Photo Credit:Alexandra Mazur
the RTA the longest. At first, most pointed to David Allcock, who had also had the task of ensuring that private landowners would allow the club to walk through trails crossing over their property. He has been with the club for 11 years. But soon it was discovered that Rona Pyle had been with the club for 15 years, and the whole group cheered her name in unison. Allcock did win one competition that day. “Are there any here over 80?” he asked. No one answered. It turns out Allcock is 79, and therefore the most senior hiker in the group. But that doesn’t mean that the Central club doesn’t have hikers over 80. In fact, the bulk of their group is made up of retirees. Tennant said that he was called a youngster when he
first arrived to the club, even though he too was retired. Those involved in organizing the Central club’s activities work on a volunteer basis, but they take their responsibilities seriously. They are now invested in looking towards the club’s future. In 2021, the RTA will hit their 50th anniversary, and they have already invited their members to start imagining what’s next for the Rideau Trail. The Central club is growing too. Tennant has been keeping statistics for the last several years, and 2016 was one for the records. It was the only year that the club averaged 10 hikers per outing, of which there were 80 in total last year. The hikes are open to unpaid members who want to try them out and yearlong memberships are available on their website, www.rideautrail.org.
February 2017
6
lifestyle Health Matters
The effects of stress
Most of us are familiar with the ‘fight or flight’ description when discussing the actions of the sympathetic nervous system, the stress-activated response that prepares us to turn and fight our predators or flee when the going gets too tough. This system is incredibly adept at preparing us to deal with acute, physical threats. The problem is that our bodies don’t know the difference between the stress induced by a bear chasing after us and that caused by an impending divorce or tax audit! Regardless of the cause of the stress, our bodies respond, raising heart rate and blood pressure in order to provide fuel for sustained defensive action. It’s safe to assume that most of people experience some kind of negative stress on a weekly, if
not daily basis. A road is closed, or there’s a Sunday driver on a Wednesday, and we race to work, driving the whole way with heart pounding, hands clenched on the wheel, stress hormones peaking. Even something as small as a missed phone call or a poor internet connection and our stress response is activated, often remaining elevated for some time. These ‘stressful’ events don’t even have to be real to initiate a response – think of how often we feel stressed about events to come, or imagining what might be, when nothing stressful has even manifested. Unfortunately, we now know that chronic stress leads to decreased immune function, contributing to the development of many prevalent health conditions faced by Canadians
today. Chronic increases in stress related hormones facilitate the development of visceral obesity, elevated blood pressure, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis and auto-immune conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Graves’ disease and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, studies have shown that stress has been associated with the development and/or exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), depression, ulcers, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, and substance abuse, to name a few. The good news is that we are capable of reducing, and in some cases effectively eliminating the needlessly heightened stress response we so often experience. Simple ways to reduce the effects of stress: Get moving – in addition to the many other
benefits of exercise, regular physical activity has been shown to decrease stress and improve mood Take a breath – breathing, especially deep, conscious abdominal/belly breathing helps to ground us and calm down the swirling reactive state that can occur when we’re caught up in feeling stressed. Breathing is controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system which opposes the sympathetic nervous system and is responsible for rest and relaxation responses in the body. Meditate – take even a few moments to calm your mind and focus on only one thing – whether this is your breath, sensations in your body, the noise outside or some relaxing music. Focusing the mind helps to calm our bodies and release some
of the excess ‘chatter’ of our thoughts. Studies have found that mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques reduce stress and anxiety, making them beneficial for those with heart disease and other stress-related health conditions. Speak to a licensed
Food & Drink
Beer Wine and Spirits
It’s the dead of winter. The wind chills you to the core when you go outside, the snow is piling up in your driveway. Just think that while we’re shoveling the white fluffy stuff in Canada somewhere on the other side of the planet, like Australia, the grapes are already starting to ripen in the hot Aussie sun. Doesn’t that warm you up just a bit or maybe make you a little jealous? Wine is literally growing,
Photo Credit: Submitted.
being harvested, fermented and bottled every day of the year somewhere on the face of the planet. That’s the great thing about wine. It’s no longer the exclusive domain of the old world wine regions from Europe. The world of wine has been constantly expanding to almost every continent on the planet that has the weather to support grape growing. New regions like China are starting up their own wine production. We’re seeing
wines on LCBO shelves from countries like Lebanon, Israel, Moldova and Georgia. Some of these regions have been producing wines for thousands of years but their products are just starting to enter the world markets. Trade barriers are coming down and it is truly becoming a global marketplace. There is such diversity in the wine world when you think about all of the different grape varieties coming
from such a multitude of regions and countries. The next time you are looking out the window watching ice pellets build up on your car windshield while you enjoy a nice Argentinean Malbec by the fire. Just think that somewhere on the opposite side of the world an Australian might be saying “Hey mate! Throw another shrimp on the barbie. It goes really well with this Niagara Riesling.”
2015 G Marquis Red Line Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Inception Irresistible White – Western Cape, VQA - Niagara, Ontario South Africa I really liked the G Marquis Red Line Riesling so I thought I would try their Cabernet Sauvignon, and it’s just as good. A nice Cabernet Sauvignon with a ruby red colour. It has a fruit forward aroma of raspberry with some spice and dark fruit flavours like currants and plum on the palate. (LCBO 473090 - $11.95
An interesting blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Gewurztraminer grapes yields a wine that is aromatic (Gewurztraminer) with a soft texture (Viognier) and the body weight of a Chardonnay. Aromas of stone fruit like peach with a pleasant mellow finish of citrus. (LCBO 441535 - $13.95)
health care provider to find out more about stress-related health conditions and ways to diminish the effects of stress in your life. Dr. Katie Weststrate, RYT, MScCH, ND Naturopathic Doctor
www.ahimsanaturopathic.com
Mark's guide
For more of Mark's suggestions, visit his blog at www.markuncorked.com or follow him on Twitter @markuncorked or on Instagram markuncorked66.
Discover the communities in Lanark and northern Leeds Grenville
Perth Outfitters skate trail to open for first time this winter
Perth - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a It’s easy to get out for a jog or a round of golf in the warmer months, but enjoying an active lifestyle is proven more difficult during the winter. To help people stay active, Perth Outfitters has created a 400-metre skate trail through the forest. Perth Outfitters, located at 21 Craig Street in Perth, is an outdoor recreation facility that encourages a healthy lifestyle through fun and relaxing activities. Started by Jeanie Brummitt and Ian Pearson in 2012, the facility is located on their seven-acre waterfront property. “Until you come smell the place, it’s hard to articulate,” Pearson says. “We’re very welcoming, laid back, relaxing. It’s a happy place. A home away from home.” Perth Outfitters offers kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, mini-golfing and more during the summer months, but the
skate trail is a brand new addition this winter. “We’re trying to create an outdoor activity centre for all seasons,” Pearson says. The skate trail meanders through the forest, winds along the shoreline of the Tay Canal and loops back to an insulated log cabin where skaters can warm up near the wood stove, sip hot chocolate and munch on warmed Timbits. Visitors can also play hockey on the outdoor rink and try snowshoeing. Tiki torches light the skate trail on Friday and Saturday nights creating a romantic atmosphere and truly Canadian experience, Pearson says. Unfortunately, the opening of the skate trail has been hindered by another truly Canadian experience — fluctuating temperatures. “We knew when we started this that we’d be a the mercy of Mother Nature. The weather isn’t consistent and it’s not predictable,” Pearson said.
Brummitt and Pearson hoped the trail would be open by mid-January but thaw has caused a delay with temperatures sometimes sitting just above freezing. “We have people coming down the driveway asking if they can skate,” Pearson laughed. More than 36,000 people viewed Perth Outfitters’ skate trail video on Facebook. “There’s
a huge interest. It’s very cool.” Skate trails became popular about five years ago in the Muskoka area and after seeing it in the media, Pearson and Brummitt decided their property had great potential for one too. “We love the natural environment and we’ve been blessed with a property of substantial size – and we want to
share it,” Pearson says. “The Tay River is too unsafe to skate on so this is a good alternative that is equally as picturesque and fun.” Pearson used all the snow that fell this season to create the outdoor fun zone. “I’ve probably spent hundreds of hours out there so far ploughing and flooding, and then ploughing and flooding again,” he laughed. “Many nights I’m out there past midnight.” Pearson, who says he shudders at the thought of a suit-and-tie life, doesn’t mind the cold. “I love to be outside. I need to be outside. Sometimes it’s still and silent and sometimes it’s windy. That’s life. That’s incredible,” he says. The inclusive environment welcomes everyone, Pearson says. “We’re probably the youngest people in their late-50s that you’ll ever meet,” he laughed. With tons of parking, visitors are invited en masse to enjoy the land-
scape. “It’s a pleasure for us to help [people] do what they came to do,” Pearson says. “It’s startling how transformative being in the natural environment can be for people. It’s liberating. The connectedness with nature seems to build confidence,” Pearson says. Perth Outfitters is accepting skate donations for people who want to try the trail but don’t have skates. Children and seniors can visit the skate trail for $8, adults for $12 and families – two children, two adults – can visit for $35. Depending on the weather, the skate trail will be open 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 1 p.m. until dark on Sundays. Operating hours for Family Day, March break and school PD days are to be announced. Visit perthoutfitters. com to check when the skate trail is open.
Perth Outfitters skate trail will open to the public for the first time when temperatures are consistently freezing. Perth Outfitters is an outdoor recreation facility that encourages a healthy lifestyle through fun and relaxing activities. Photo Credit: Jane Hobson.
Events around the region
Almonte & Mississippi Mills
February 21
February • Wednesdays
February 22
Open Celtic Jam Naismith Pub 411 Ottawa St., Almonte
February • Wednesdays
Almonte Duplicate Bridge Club Almonte Legion 100 Bridge St., Almonte
February 4 & 18
Kitchen Party w/Jimmy TriTone Band The Barley Mow 79 Little Bridge Street, Almonte barleymow.com
February 5 & 19
Mississippi Wood Carvers Mtg Almonte Library 155 High St., Almonte
February 6
Toy & Collectible Show & Sale Almonte Civitan Hall 500 Almonte St., Almonte
February 11 & 25
George Turcotte & his Band The Barley Mow 79 Little Bridge Street, Almonte Barleymow.com
February 12
Chaffeys & Kelly Sloan Almonte Legion 100 Bridge St., Almonte
February 12
Jimmy Tri-Tone Band The Barley Mow 79 Little Bridge Street, Almonte Barleymow.com
February 13
Valentine's Dinner Dance. Almonte Civitan Hall 500 Almonte St., Almonte
February 14
Vallentyne Bake Healthy Food Technologies 25 Industrial Dr., Almonte
February 14
Clever Mess Jazz Club The Barley Mow 79 Little Bridge Street, Almonte barleymow.com
February 15
Almonte Quilters' Guild Almonte Civitan Hall 500 Almonte St., Almonte www.almontequiltersguild.com
February 15
This Changes Everything Mississippi Valley Textile Museum 3 Rosamond St. E, Almonte Bereavement Support Group Parish House St. Paul's Anglican Church 70 Clyde St., Almonte
February 22
Almonte & Dist. Horticultural Soc. Cornerstone Community Church 1728 Concession 11, Almonte.
February 25
Vernissage: Cathy Blake Fairview Manor 75 Spring St., Almonte
Seminar: Plan for Retirement Carleton Place Library 101 Beckwith St., Carleton Place
Trad Song Session The Barley Mow 79 Little Bridge Street, Almonte Barleymow.com
Ottawa Cape Breton Session St. James Anglican Church 225 Edmund St., Carleton Place
February 28
Carleton Place February • Mondays
Mixed Euchre Royal Canadian Legion 177 George St
February • Tuesdays
Cribbage Royal Canadian Legion 177 George St
February • Tuesdays
Ladies Drop-In Darts Royal Canadian Legion 177 George St
February • Tuesdays Civitan Bingo Carleton Place Arena
Dart Night at The New Queens 142 Bridge St., Carleton Place
February • Wednesdays
2000 Yrs of Chinese Coinage Alliance Coin & Banknote 88 Mill St., Almonte alliancecoin.com
February • Wednesdays
Soup for Thought Fundraiser Mississippi Valley Textile Museum 3 Rosamond St. E, Almonte
February • Thursdays
February 19
February 20
Open Mic w/Kevin Ficzere Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St., Carleton Place Thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
SRO Big Band Tea Dance Almonte Old Town Hall 14 Bridge St., Almonte sro.teadances@sympatico.ca 613-692-5380
February • Sundays
Celtfest Curling Funspiel Almonte Curling Club 160 Bridge St., Almonte
February 28
Storytime Carleton Place Public Library 101 Beckwith St, Carleton Place
February 21
Music at the Moose The Thirsty Moose Pub & Eatery 20 Bridge St.
Folkus: Craig Cardiff Almonte Old Town Hall 14 Bridge St., Almonte Folkusalmonte.com
February • Wednesdays
Kundalini Yoga w/Gurmukh Almonte Old Town Hall 14 Bridge St., Almonte
February • Saturdays
Ron McMunn Country Music Heart Jam Carleton Place Arena 75 Neelin St., Carleton Place
February 27
Seedy Saturday Almonte Civitan Hall 500 Almonte St., Almonte
February 20
Acoustic Saturdays The Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St www.thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
Mid-Winter Milling Downtown Almonte Mill St., Almonte
Open Jam Night The Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St www.thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
Barns Book Presentation & FundraiserAlmonte Legion 100 Bridge St., Almonte
February • Saturdays
Jazz at the Queen’s Queens Hotel 142 Bridge St., Carleton Place
February 27
Heritage Dinner Almonte Legion 100 Bridge St., Almonte
February 20
DJ Whisper The Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St www.thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
Almonte Lectures: Don Wiles Almonte United Church 106 Elgin St. Almonte
February 26
February • Tuesdays
February 19
February • Fridays
Blues w/Barry Buse & Redneck Limousine Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St., Carleton Place 613-257-5755 Thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
MVFN: Nature Talk Almonte United Church 106 Elgin St., Almonte
February 19
Total Rhythm Dance Studio Lansdowne Avenue
Karaoke Night The Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St www.thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
February • Thursdays
Indoor Walking at Carambeck Carambeck Community Centre 351 Bridge Street
February • Thursdays
MasterMind Toastmasters Club Riverview Seniors' Residence 204 Lake Ave., Carleton Place www.mastermindtoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org
February • Fridays
Ballroom and Latin Dance Social
February 4
February 7
February 13
February 20
February 20
Jazz at the Waterfront Waterfront Gastropub 12 Bell St., Carleton Place Thewaterfrontgastropub.ca
February 21
The NightCrawlers Generations Inn 717 Lake Park Rd., Carleton Place
February 27
Hyddie Hoe & Dixie Landers Carleton Place Arena 75 Neelin St., Carleton Place
Perth February • Tuesdays
Brock Zeman & Blair Hogan O'Reilly's Pub 43 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7994 www.oreillyspubperth.com
February • Wednesdays
Acoustic Stage w/Dave Balfour O'Reilly's Pub 43 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7994 www.oreillyspubperth.com
February • Tuesdays
4-Hand Euchre Perth Legion 26 Beckwith St E., Perth rcl244@ymail.com 613-267-4400
February 2
Green Drinks Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 goldenarrowpub.com perthgreendrinks@gmail.com
February 3 & 4
The Second Mother. Full Circle Theatre 26 Craig St., Perth
February 3, 17 & 24
Karaoke Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 4 - 7, 12 - 13 & 14 The Game's Afoot
Studio Theatre 63 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7469 studiotheatreperth.com
February 4, 12, 18 & 25 Open Mic Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 5
Riq Turner Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 5
Smitty O'Reilly's Pub 43 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7994 www.oreillyspubperth.com
February 6
Governor General's Foot Guards Band St Paul's United Church 25 Gore St. W., Perth www.stpauls-uc-perth.org
February 8
Audition: The Last Deadman Full Circle Theatre 26 Craig St., Perth 613-267-1884 www.barndoorproductions. ca/audition-info
February 9
Adult Bereavement Group Community Home Support 40 Sunset Blvd., Perth Rebecca Bowie: 613-267-6400 rebeccab@chslc.ca
February 9
Perth Hort: Flowers of the Camino St Paul's United Church 25 Gore St. W., Perth www.stpauls-uc-perth.org
February 10
Matt Dickson Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 12
Tom Watson O'Reilly's Pub 43 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7994 www.oreillyspubperth.com
February 13
Valentine Book Sale Perth & District Union Library 30 Herriott St., Perth tthompson21@cogeco.ca 613-283-5622
February 13
Fire & Ice Winter fun at Conlon Farm. 6 Conlon Drive, Perth perth200.ca/signature-events
February 13
Fire & Ice Crystal Palace 63 Gore St. E., Perth perth200.ca/signature-events
February 13
Shawn McCullough Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 16
Lanark Retired Women Teachers luncheon Perth Restaurant (Tea Room). Judy at 613-275-1354.
February 17 & 18
Trumbo Full Circle Theatre 26 Craig St., Perth www.barndoorproductions.ca
February 19 - 21 & 25 - 28 A Life in the Theatre Full Circle Theatre
26 Craig St., Perth www.barndoorproductions.ca
February 21
Ottawa Valley Opry Show & Dance Perth Legion 26 Beckwith St E., Perth rcl244@ymail.com 613-267-4400
February 23
Lanark County Quilters Guild Lions Hall Perth Fairgrounds Arthur St., Perth
February 26
River City Junction O'Reilly's Pub 43 Gore St. E., Perth 613-267-7994 www.oreillyspubperth.com
February 27
Brea Lawrenson Golden Arrow 71 Foster St., Perth 613-267-4500 Goldenarrowpub.com
February 28
Choral Evensong St. James the Apostle Anglican Church 12 Harvey St., Perth stjamesperth@superaje.com 613-267-1163
Smiths Falls February to December
Celebrating Our Heritage Speakers Series *detailed list of speakers to follow Smiths Falls & District Historical Society www.smithsfalls.ca/heritagehouse
February • Mondays
Smiths Falls Duplicate Bridge Club Smiths Falls Legion 7 Main St. E., Smiths Falls
February • Tuesdays
Smiths Falls Duplicate Bridge Club Smiths Falls Legion 7 Main St. E., Smiths Falls
February 19 - 21, & 25 - 28 Fox on the Fairway The Station Theatre Smithsfallstheatre.com
February 20
Family Day Activities Lower Reach Park
February 23
Adult Bereavement Group Smiths Falls Community Health Ctr 2 Gould St. Smiths Falls
February 24 - 26
No Sex Please...We're British The Station Theatre Smithsfallstheatre.com
Westport & Rideau Lakes February • Mondays
Trivia Night The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 5
Art Lajambe The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 6 & 27
Head Over Heels The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 10, 14, 17 & 24 Shawn McCullough The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 12
John Wilberforce The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 13
Valentine's Dinner The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
February 14
Jeff Code & the Silver Wings Band Westport Legion 10099 Perth Rd., Westport
February 14
February • Tuesdays
Arts council winter games. Royal Canadian Legion
February 2
BOTR: Jack deKeyzer Band. The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
Open Mic Smiths Falls Legion 7 Main St. E., Smiths Falls
February 19
40 Plus Singles Dinner/Dance Civitan Club, #12468 Hwy 15, Smiths Falls Betty: 613-285-5557
February 20
February 3
Sweetheart Sale Smiths Falls Community Center 71 Cornelia St, Smiths Falls
February 4
40 Plus Singles Dinner & Dance Civitan Club, #12468 Hwy 15, Smiths Falls Betty: 613-285-5557
February 8 - 11
Chris Murphy The Cove Country Inn Coveinn.com
Regional February 2
Pot Luck Lunch and Crafts Lanark Learning Centre 67 George Street.
February 5
Lanark Village Museum Lanark Civitan Hall
Bake Sale at the Smiths Falls & District Aquatic Recreation The Gallipeau Centre 361 Queen St., Smiths Falls
February 7 & 14
Station Theatre Movie Night Smiths Falls Station Theatre 53 Victoria Ave, Smiths Falls www.smithsfallstheatre.com
Pancake Supper for School Maple Grove School 151 George St., Lanark Village
February 9 & 23
February 12
20th Annual Friends of the Library Trivia Challenge Royal Canadian Legion www.smithsfallslibrary.ca
Lanark Learning Centre Writing Group 67 George Street, Lanark
February 9
February 9 & 16
Lanark Learning Centre Crafts 67 George Street
February 13
Valentine Bingo Lanark Learning Centre.
February 12 & 13
February 16
February 13 - 20
February 21
Suffragette. The Station Theatre Smithsfallstheatre.com
Retired Women Teachers luncheon Perth Restaurant (Tea Room)
Lushes with Brushes Heritage House Museum, Smiths Falls www.smithsfalls.ca/heritagehouse
Snow Angel Making Party Highlands Gate 4381 Wolf Grove Rd. Lanark Highlands
Would you like to see your community’s events for next month listed here? Please send details of the events to events@pdgmedia.ca for information on our ads contact advertising@pdgmedia.ca or call (613) 206-0708 The events listed here are submitted to Hometown News, Events are subject to change or may be cancelled after date of publication. Hometown News is not responsible for such changes
Opening nig ht success for Mississippi Mudds
Actors in the Mississippi Mudds perform act three of A Comi-Cal Murder on Friday Jan. 27 at the Carleton Place Town Hall. Photo Credit: Jane Hobson.
REGIONAL - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a About 80 people gathered for a night out on opening night of the Mississippi Mudds A ComiCal Murder at the Carleton Place Town Hall on Jan. 27. Written and directed by Carleton Place local Tony Scott, A Comi-Cal Murder is a four-act performance that follows the story of a mysterious murder committed by superhero. Among the superheroes are Superman, Harley Quinn and Cat Woman. The audience is given the opportunity to vote for who they think the mur-
derer is before the final act. “This has been in the works for two or three years now,” says Scott. “I think people like dressing up as their favourite super hero because people have day-to-day problems and they like the idea of having someone to take care of their problems and save the day.” “It’s just something fun to brighten the dull winter months,” says Judith Scott, the director’s wife. The couple has been in the Mudds together for about 25 years. “It’s a fun atmosphere, the play is definitely not
meant to be taken seriously,” Scott says. “It’s a comedy!” Between each of the four acts, the audience eats a catered three-course meal from Leatherworks Catering. The show will continue on Saturday January 28, 2017, which is the last night, at the Carleton Place Town Hall. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased as Hallmark in Carleton Place. Doors open at 6:30. There is a cash bar. The show is themed for adult audiences. Visit www.mississippimudds.ca for more information.
Local resident crowned Aboriginal Tourism Champion
REGIONAL - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a
In December 2016, Stephanie Sarazin was awarded an Aboriginal Tourism Award for Best Cultural Ambassador at the fifth-annual International Aboriginal Tourism Conference. Sarazin is an Algonquin from Pikwakanagan, Ont. and has strong ties to the Lanark County and Ottawa region. “It was kind of overwhelming,” says Sarazin, 30, remembering the moment she won the award. With her mother sitting on one side and her boss on the other, Sarazin says it was such a surreal experience that she cried. Everyone else in the room already knew she was going to win. “My mom even encouraged me to have an acceptance speech ready ‘just in case’,” Sarazin laughs. The Aboriginal Tourism Award for Best Cultural Ambassador acknowledges tourism operators who are dedicated to improving and increasing the aboriginal tourism industry in Canada. These individuals find meaningful ways to share their culture with visitors through authentic aboriginal tourism experiences. “It’s an amazing honour to see all of my years of hard work, dedication and the passion that I have for what I do being recognized in such a huge way,” she says. Sarazin has spent the last 13 years working for Ab-
original Experiences. The Ottawa company creates programs that immerse tourists in First Nation’s culture through activities like guided tours, cuisine and powwow dances. “I’m thrilled when a visitor leaves with a deeper understanding and appreciation of our way of life,” Sarazin says, adding that learning about the past experiences of first nations people can help people understand the history of Canada. In 2016, Sarazin also began offering programming at her newly re-opened business, The Anishinabe Experience, in Golden Lake, Ont. The Anishinabe Experience was originally a craft store owned by Sarazin’s mother. Sarazin spent a lot of her childhood at the craft store. She shared her Aboriginal ways of life with people who came along looking for a first nations experience. “I loved to chat with anyone who would listen,” she says. As a child, Sarazin brought Aboriginal crafts into the classroom to show her peers what activities she did for fun, like beading and dancing. “I went to school at a time when we were able to speak our language again, there were no more residential schools. I took in all I could and I shared everything I could.” Now, The Anishinabe Experience is way more than a craft store - it transports
Stephanie Sarazin was awarded Best Cultural Ambassador at the International Aboriginal Tourism Conference in December 2016. Photo Credit: Kasia Wind
tourists into the traditional world of the Algonquins of Golden Lake. Visitors are invited to learn songs in the Algonquin language and learn the meaning behind the Algonquin dialect. Other activities include a traditional song and dance by Algonquin youth groups and listening to a storyteller share legends of Algonquin beliefs, spiritualism and history. In order to prepare for the future, Sarazin says people must understand and educate themselves about how important the connection between people and the natural environment is.
“Our economy is changing, everything is changing, but we will still need food and water to survive in the future,” she says. People are taught to see everything as linear but first nations see everything as circular, Sarazin explains. “Kids today think food comes from a grocery store. That’s a huge indication that something is wrong with the world,” Sarazin says. “If the ground is full of oil, we can’t grow food from the ground.” Educating children is so important because kids are like sponges, their curiosity will carry them and encourage them to learn more,
Sarazin says. “We can make a better future if we prepare the next generation for it. But we need to work together.” People are thought to think seven generations ahead in first nations culture. “In seven generations from now I want to see more farms, good food, and children who can drink water from the lake, who can catch a fish, bring it home, skin it and eat it for dinner,” she says. After years of focusing on educating people about the Aboriginal ways of life, Sarazin says she’s okay with not yet having children of
her own. “I’m extremely happy with where I’m at because I’m educating todays kids to make tomorrow better and different than it is now. I am happy,” she explains. Sarazin says the best feeling is seeing someone’s eyes light up while she’s talking to them. That’s how she knows she’s done a good job. “My life’s work is to help people realize how important this really is — but I can only tell this story so many times to so many people,” she explains. “I will continue to dance, I will continue to share, I will continue to educate.”
FILL-A-BOWL fundraiser
In support of The Smiths Falls and District Arts and Culture Council FUNDS RAISED SUPPORT ARTS AND CULTURE IN THE SMITHS FALLS AREA
Indulge in culturally inspired soups from a unique locally handcra�ed bowl to keep, while enjoying live entertainment. Tickets: $20.00 each. Includes soup and bowl. Tickets are available for purchase (cash only) at Knit Knackers, 12 Russell Street. Tues. - Sat. From 11am-5pm. Tickets are limited so get yours today! For more informa�on: smithsfallsarts@gmail.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 11TH 11AM-1PM
SENIORS ACTIVITY CENTRE CORNELIA STREET
February 2017
11
culture Perth Inside Out:
by Terry O'Hearn
Conlon Farm Recreation Complex is born - Part I More than 40 years ago Perth Town Council voted to purchase the old Conlon Farm property - strictly on speculation at the time. It was announced in the Perth Courier of March 29, 1973, that “Town Council on Monday night decided in favour of purchasing the Ambrose J. Conlon farm property for the sum of $40,000.” No one knew at the time how momentous that decision would be. It was thought by some that the property would have to be disposed of in the future, because in was not suitable for most industry, and there was no vision then of a recreation facility that would become another jewel in the Perth crown. Annexation of the property to the town was not approved until a council meeting on Sept. 12, 1979, when that 55-acre parcel in Bathurst Township bounded on the north by the Tay River, the Scotch Line on the south, Rogers Road on the west, and Brown Shoe on the east became part of the Town of Perth. It was noted that the land was purchased during a three-year period from 1973-76. Memories tend to be short, but many citizens still recall the individuals, ser-
vice clubs, businesses, and other organizations who worked so hard to bring to fruition their hopes for the space, known officially now as the Conlon Farm Recreation Complex at 127 Smith Drive. Bill White, then a town councillor, and one of the driving forces behind the project, credits Recreational Coordinator at the time Bob Sauer with having a vision to develop the Conlon property, including ball fields and a chalet. “The town fell in love with the project, and it all came together eventually,” White mused when we talked recently. “We as the Town of Perth had purchased the property thinking of just a couple of soccer fields. Bob [Sauer] already was looking ahead to do so much more with it.” Sauer’s job expanded in the future to include “administrator of town-owned recreational facilities and consultant to recreational committees, sports organizations and theatrical and choral groups.” He loved Perth, and referred to it as a “classy town”. Well known Perth Courier newsman Steve Forster penned a major story on Oct. 17, 1984, about the new Perth recreation plan:
“The Town of Perth has approved in principle the first steps in a bold new plan for recreation land which could satisfy the needs of the community for half a century.” By that time it was seen that: “The Conlon Farm land could include three softball diamonds, one baseball diamond, four to six tennis courts, two soccer fields, possibly one football field with a quarter-mile track, lighted horseshoe pits, and lawn bowling.” Forster added to his story that: “A tentative plan also includes the possibility of a new community centre and ancillary buildings, according to town recreation committee chairman Chuck Montgomery. Montgomery emphasized that, to realize the plan, the town would have to work hand in hand with service clubs, recreational clubs and the Lanark County Board of Education.” In Montgomery’s opinion, the first step would be to move the soccer fields from their location on the former airstrip near the industrial park, and the next step would be the softball diamonds and construction of some type of changeroom structure. White recalls that in the early stages of the Conlon Farm project, town repre-
Photo Credit: Terry O'Hearn
sentatives went to a meeting in western Ontario to make a pitch for provincial grants to assist in financing. He feels the committee really did their homework, making a very professional and successful presentation. They would get close to a half million dollars from the province as a result of their efforts. In February 1986, council approved the selection of consulting firm Cumming-Cockburn to coordinate a study plan for the recreation area project at a cost of $19,400. That provincial grant won earlier helped defray $10,000 of the cost. Another story in March, 1986, reported that planners had taken the first steps in developing Con-
lon Farm, having met with recreational and special interest groups to develop a list of planning priorities. The story also reported that Recreational Coordinator Bob Sauer was optimistic about the outcome of the meeting. “As a first meeting it went well compared to other - similar, meetings I’ve attended. The group may not think it accomplished much, but it is an important step in the planning process,” Sauer commented. Chairman of Parks and Recreation Bill White, was reported as being pleased with the response to the meeting, and felt the proper initial groundwork had been laid by special interest groups. It seems Perth was blessed with having a few great
visionaries in the right place at the right time. Many factors came into play in the process that might have hamstrung a lesser group of people. However, the committee that formed behind the Conlon Farm project would have a driving force beyond the norm; a team committed and unstoppable; a collection of hard working citizens who refused to give up. They would power their way through many obstacles, and when the naysayers began to bray, those good men and women went to work. As usual, many tales about the facets of the diamond Perth are more complex than we might suppose. This one will continue next month, dear readers. Email: terry@pdgmedia.ca
Almonte “art nerd” finds success owning own business Carleton Place - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a
Almonte charcoal artist Rob Parsons sketched a portrait of a cat. Parsons owns his own company called Portraits by Rob. Photo Credit: Rob Parsons.
“Sketching connects you to what you’re drawing,” says charcoal artist Rob Parsons as he picks up his mug to sip a flat white coffee at Equator in Almonte. Parsons has been running his own business called Portraits by Rob since 2012. He specializes in charcoal sketches, his most popular being portraits of pets and movie characters. Parsons remembers one of the first charcoals he ever did. It was of his late grandfather for his grandmother when she was sick with cancer. “I just thought it would be a nice gesture to give it to her, but she cried and was absolutely emotional about it,” he says. When his grandmother died, a copy of the charcoal portrait went with her when her body was cremated. “I never even met my grandpa, but I started noticing things like how
similar my smile looks to his in my prom photos,” Parsons says. “It’s a strangely similar smile.” Turns out, Parsons grandfather also had an artistic touch. He painted planes for the military and was ambidextrous, a trait Parsons says he inherited just a little bit. “Some people cry because they’ve lost their pet and they feel like they’re seeing it again when I give them the drawing,” Parsons says. “Over Christmas break, a grown man cried when I gave him a charcoal of his pet that passed away.” Parsons, who calls himself a perfectionist, especially likes drawing his girlfriend Ivy. “I’m familiar with her, with her eyes, with her look, so I draw her just as bubbly and beautifully as she is in real life.” He explains that if the eyes are done well and capture the real look of the person, the rest of the picture can be messy. “Some
people are too caught up in the details — but look closely at my charcoals; it’s messy but it comes together well,” Parsons says. “I also have really awful handwriting,” he laughs. Parsons and his friends spent a lot of time drawing together as kids. “I doodled a lot in the margins of my notebooks in elementary school,” he admits. Inspired by his grade five and six art teacher, Parsons’ interest in sketching grew. “I’m an art nerd,” Parsons laughs. “Sarah Jaynes taught me everything I know about what I’m doing now.” Parsons says Jaynes, his art teacher at Notre Dame Catholic High School in Carleton Place, would offer 10 different techniques to try on his charcoal portraits. “Everyone has a different style of drawing or painting, or whatever it is you do,” Parsons says. “She taught me that the best part is that the creative
process doesn’t have to be realistic.” Parsons often turns to sketching to relax when he’s feeling anxious. “I usually put headphones in and zone out,” he says. This is similar to how his mind works when he’s doing school-related work. Parsons received a bachelor of science in chemical engineering from the University of Ottawa in the spring of 2016. “Getting from this to that, whether it’s art or science, there’s still a process that I work through — so I really enjoy both,” Parsons says. “I have a problem to solve and the process of coming up with a solution is chaotic, but in the end, it works.” Parsons is now studying energy management at Algonquin College. He wants to use his education to protect the environment and create reusable energy projects. While school is a priority right now, he says he still accepts requests for sketches.
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special feature Minds in Motion® is a social program that incorporates physical activity and mental stimulation for people with early to mid-stage signs of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias and their care partners. This is a two hour per week program that runs for 8 consecutive weeks. The program combines 45-60 minutes of physical activity led by a trained Fitness Instructor followed by a 45-60 minute cognitive stimulation activity facilitated by Alzheimer Society staff and volunteers. Call Geralynne to find out when this program is being offered in your area. 866-576-8556 ext. 200. This program is generously funded through the Ontario Trillium Foundation
Senior Health
Uncovering Covert Strokes
Dr. Eric Smith is working to predict who is at risk for stroke-related dementia, and ultimately prevent it. Both of Dr. Eric Smith’s grandmothers died of stroke. “I recall my parents making tough decisions and advocating on their behalf because both of them had strokes that affected their speaking,” says the University of Calgary researcher. “That was one of the experiences that made me realize how terrible a problem stroke is, and how much more we need to learn and do to help
people who’ve been affected by stroke.” Today Dr. Smith is engaged in a unique study aimed at shedding light on one of the most devastating consequences of stroke: dementia. Dementia refers to problems with memory and thinking. Mild dementia can limit your ability to drive or do basic math; in its progressed stage, it can prevent you from looking after basic tasks like bathing, dressing and communicating. About a third of all dementia is related to stroke, and the two dis-
eases share common risk factors. So by preventing stroke, we can reduce our risk for dementia too. Dr. Smith is focusing on covert strokes – small strokes in the brain that cause only very subtle symptoms. Covert strokes are now considered to be quite common among Canadians, and could be as likely to lead to dementia as large strokes. “What we’re finding is that covert strokes are actually pretty common in the Canadian population. Up to 20 per cent of people in their 70s
can have one or more of these,” explains Dr. Smith. ”My research is defining this problem so that we can identify the extent to which covert strokes are predicting problems with memory and thinking, or to the risk of large strokes – or dementia. It’s the first step to developing prevention strategies and treatments for this condition.” Dr. Smith’s PUREMIND study is the first to focus on this area in Canada, and also among the first to look at covert strokes not just in people
in their 70s and 80s, but in people aged late 30s, 40s, and 50s. The study, supported by Heart and Stroke Foundation donors, is looking at 1,500 people aged 40 to 75. The researchers use brain scans to look for evidence that someone has had a covert stroke. Matching that information with memory tests at threeyear intervals, Dr. Smith hopes to identify people in midlife who might be at risk in later life for memory and thinking problems, or dementia. By figuring out who is at risk of dementia,
Dr. Smith hopes we can do more to prevent it, through lifestyle changes and medication. “It’s more than a coincidence that my career is in stroke research,” he says. “My family history with my grandmothers is one of the things that made me want to go into medicine for stroke, to try to help people and help other families hopefully not experience those kind of tragedies.” Reprinted with permission from the Heart and Stroke website. For more resources go to www.heartandstroke.ca.
February 2017
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special feature
Falls can be prevented
Injuries caused by falls have a major effect on the health of the residents of South East Ontario. In every age group falls are the leading cause of emergency department visits and hospitalizations due to injury. However, the incidence of fall-related emergency department visits for patients 65 years or older is 16 per cent higher in the South East compared to the province. Fear of falling doesn't need to rule your life. Instead, consider five simple fall-prevention strategies. 1. Keep moving With your doctor's OK, consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi. Such activities reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. 2. Wear sensible shoes Consider changing your footwear as part of your fall-prevention plan. High heels, floppy slippers and shoes with slick soles or walking in your stocking feet can make you slip, stumble and fall. Instead wear properly fitting, sturdy shoes with nonskid soles. 3. Remove Home Hazards Your living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom,
hallways and stairways may be filled with hazards. To make your home safer: · Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways. · Move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas. · Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing — or remove loose rugs from your home. · Repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting right away. · Store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach. · Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food. · Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower. 4. Light up your living space Keep your home brightly lit to avoid tripping. · Place night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. · Place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs. · Make clear paths to light switches that aren't near room entrances. Consider trading traditional switches for glow-in-the-dark or illuminated switches. · Turn on the lights before
going up or down stairs. · Store flashlights in easyto-find places in case of power outages. 5. Use assistive devices Your doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady. Other assistive devices can help, too. For example: · Hand rails for both sides of stairways · Nonslip treads for barewood steps · A raised toilet seat or one with armrests · Grab bars for the shower or tub · A sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub — plus a hand-held shower nozzle for bathing while sitting down Fall facts · Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Canadians with 20-30 per cent seniors experiencing one or more falls each year. · Falls cause 85 per cent of seniors' injury-related hospitalizations, 95 per cent of all hip fractures. · Over one third of seniors are admitted to longterm care following hospitalization for a fall. · The average Canadian senior had to stay in hospital 10 days longer for falls than for any other cause. · 50 per cent of all falls causing hospitalization happen at home.
Memory Care Day Program If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia, and you work during the day or simply need a break, our Circle of Friends Day Program can provide you with the support you need. Our unique day and night programs assist those who are caring for a loved one with memory loss, while providing participants with meaningful life-enriching time in a comfortable and safe home-like environment.
Call Liz at 613-253-7360 6 Arthur Street, Carleton Place Memory Care • Assisted Living • Respite • Trial Stays
Program Highlights n Half or full day, evening or overnight options to suit your needs n Basic health assessment n Supervision from our trained Resident Specialists n Chef prepared hot meals and unlimited snacks n Opportunity for socialization in a safe and secure environment
www.SymphonySeniorLiving.com
February 2017
14
business Wonton Crunch in Smiths Falls expands facility Smiths Falls Matthew Behrens
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Smiths Falls entrepreneur Prim Singh has devised the perfect recipe for culinary success with an automated wonton maker that is revolutionizing production of the popular Asian cuisine appetizer. Following two appearances on CBC’s Dragon’s Den and a new distribution contract with Sysco food services, Singh’s trademark Wonton Crunch snacks are primed for a global market. To meet growing demand for this Smiths Falls-produced product – featuring Butter Chicken, Coriander Pork, Chicken Bruschetta, Jalapeno Cream Cheese, Buffalo Chicken "Wing Ton", and Caramel Apple Crunch flavours – Singh has moved the company from the Gallipeau Centre in Smiths Falls to the former downtown Canadian Tire outlet on Front Street.
With more than twice the space of his former location, Singh will be able to double, if not triple, his output this year with plans to secure a provincial food safety certification that will enable Wonton Crunch to distribute across Canada and the United States. A former Trinidad and Tobago restaurateur who grew up eating wontons – Singh says they’re incredibly popular across the Caribbean – he moved to Smiths Falls 29 years ago, looking for a change and a good location for fishing and hunting. After working two decades at Hershey, he took three years off for technical study, eventually opening a computer shop in his basement. To cover tuition and monthly bills, he and his family sold homemade, hand-wrapped wontons to local stores, in the process discovering a huge potential market. But making wontons by
hand can be painstakingly slow, with the family spending up to 10 hours a day making four per minute. The only way to grow a profitable wonton business, Singh concluded, was through automation. When he shared his unprecedented vision of a wonton machine over Christmas dinner, his family responded with loving support and a slight amount of skepticism. Nevertheless, he immediately began a seven-year, self-taught inventor’s journey that led to the creation of Grace’s Goose, named for his wife who, upon learning it would likely cost $20,000, told Prim, “You're so passionate about this, just go for it.” While an additional $80,000 was invested to perfect Grace’s Goose, Prim studied every single episode of Dragon’s Den, concocting the right pitch to secure an investor and take his company to the next level. He and
Prim Singh shows off Grace's Goose in the companie's new location. Photo Credit: Matthew Behrens
his two children – Dean and Farrah – comprised one of the 187,000 applications the show received in 2014. Following auditions, Wonton Crunch became one of 70 on-air contestants before joining the rarified company of 18 winning businesses. Their national TV appear-
ance generated huge interest in the company, and while Wonton Crunch originally received an offer from Dragon’s Den investor and Boston Pizza owner Jim Treliving, Singh eventually backed out, since a key condition would have required moving to BC. “I love Smiths Falls,”
Singh says. “We have roots here. This is our home, and we wanted to stay here.” But there were no hard feelings, as an encore Dragon’s Den appearance last fall celebrated Wonton Crunch’s success as a family business that’s sold over 5 million wontons.
New denture clinic coming to Perth in March
Denturist Sam Lima will open a denture clinic in Perth in mid-March 2017. Photo Credit: Sam Lima
Perth - Jane Hobson
ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a
“We’re hoping the community will benefit from it. There are no services like this around now,” said Sam Lima, who is opening a denture clinic in Perth in mid-March. The official grand opening is currently unknown since renovations are still underway. The clinic will be located at 3 Beckwith Street East in Perth, across from the Perth and District Community Centre. Lima grew up in a small town in Italy before coming to Canada in 1972. He has been a denturist for 34 years and owns a successful clinic in Vanier. The Vanier clinic will remain open with a full-time denturist. Lima will work full-time at the new clinic
in Perth. “Perth is quiet, it feels good and you get to know people,” he said. Lima fabricates custom dentures for all his patients, explaining that “everything is specific. It’s all custom made.” A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. There are two types of dentures – complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. Partial dentures are used when there are still some natural teeth in the mouth. The entire process takes about four or five appointments. The patient has an impression taken and the dentures are made to fit the impression. It can take up to three or four weeks to make dentures, Lima says. “They have to be aes-
thetically pleasing but they also have to be functional — they actually have to work when the patient eats and drinks,” Lima explains. “It’s all about knowing what the patient wants.” Lima makes custom dentures based on the teeth colour, teeth shape, face size and face shape of each patient since these characteristics are always unique. Lima says the follow-up appointments are very important as well. “If something is wrong or something is uncomfortable, we’ll bring you back in and make sure you leave happy,” Lima says. After more than three decades as a denturist, Lima says it’s his passion that has led to his success. “I love it. It makes me happy. That’s really important.” As Lima starts thinking about retirement, he says he and his wife, Sherry, are happy with what they have accomplished. “We’ve come a long way,” Lima says, reflecting on the earlier days of his career when he worked as a technician at the Vanier clinic that he now owns. “I would do it all again.” The couple built a home on Bass Lake just outside of Perth about three years ago. “We love Perth. It’s a quaint, beautiful place,” said Sherry. “We would love to retire here eventually.”
February 2017
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business
the
VALUE
of advice Shawn Pankow CFP.CLU Will our social safety net be enough to preserve your financial security? If you believe the social safety net in Canada will be enough to look after your needs if you become sick or disabled, think again. Although we are fortunate to have a number of government programs that could assist in supporting our income needs if we became seriously ill or disabled, none are sufficient to keep you out of poverty and restrictive definitions may prevent you from receiving benefits. If you are injured or seriously ill and cannot
work, Employment Insurance (EI) does provide an income benefit. Assuming you have been working in insurable employment, you meet specific criteria, are experience an earnings reduction of at least 40% and have accumulated at least 600 hours of insurable employment during the qualifying you could be eligible for the EI sickness benefit that could pay you up to 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings to a maximum of $543/ week, for up to 15 weeks.
Tax Time Nearly 85 per cent of people file their taxes electronically now. When you do, this, you don’t need to send in receipts. Typically, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) randomly selects files to review, but sometimes there are certain claims that get red-flagged, because of specific claims being made, so make sure to keep your receipts. In July you may get a letter from the CRA asking for such things as: charitable donations receipts, registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) contributions, or invoices for child care expenses. These letters are known as either pre-assessment or post-assessment Letter of Review, also known
There is also a one week waiting period and the first payment would be received within 28 days of applying. If your net family income is under $25,921, you have children and you or your spouse are receiving the Canada Child Tax Benefit, you could be eligible for the EI Family Supplement and receive up to 80% of your average insurable earnings. If you are still disabled after 15 weeks, you could be eligible for the Canada Pension Plan disabi-
lity benefit. Benefits can start the fourth month after you are determined to be disabled, and it generally takes about four months from the date of application before receiving a decision. To be eligible, you must have made enough contributions to CPP, must be disabled an unable to work at any job on a regular basis and the disability must be considered severe and prolonged – long term and of indefinite duration or is likely to result in death. Benefits will vary from person to person. Everyone receives the basic amount of $471.73 (for 2017) monthly plus an amount based on how much you have contributed to CPP during your entire working career. For 2017, the average CPP disability benefit is $938.31/month and the maximum is $1,313.66. If you are collecting CPP disability benefits and you have children, you are also eligible to receive the dependent benefit of an additional $241.02 (2017) for each child.
Both EI and CPP disability benefits are taxable and as you can see, are very modest compared to most people’s employment income and needs. If you are fortunate enough to have a longterm disability insurance plan through your employer. Take a few minutes and review your coverage. What is the definition of disability? Does it change after two years? How much will you receive if you are disabled? Does that amount replace your average take home pay? Is commission income or bonuses insured? Are benefits taxable or tax-free? Most people fail to consider the impact a serious illness or disability could have on their short term and long term financial security. Most home foreclosures are a result of non-payment. Disability is one of the leading causes of people being unable to pay their mortgage. Some people may believe they could draw on their retirement savings if faced with
a period of disability. While this may work for a very short period of time, most people would not have enough saved to preserve their income for their lifetime and the loss of these savings during one’s working years is irreversible, and likely leads to a high level of financial insecurity later in life. Disability or critical illness insurance is a topic most people dread talking about and resist paying for. However, your ability to earn an income is your greatest asset. Insure it. Plans can be custom designed around government benefits and even group insurance long term disability plans to ensure you are getting the most value for your premium dollars. Speak with an advisor who can design a program that can ensure your financial security is preserved. Shawn Pankow is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Health Specialist with Pankow Financial Solutions in Smiths Falls.
Avoiding red-flag situations with the Canada Revenue Agency
as a soft audit. The top five situations that will typically trigger a CRA audit: Big changes: This could prompt the CRA to ask if there’s been a mistake or ask for proof that things have changed. Recurring losses: The CRA may take a closer look at a business that doesn’t ever seem to make a profit but where the loss can be used to offset other income. Once you’ve reported losses for two or three years in a row on the same business or rental property, a little flag will go up on your tax return. Big expenses: Did you really move 40 kilometres closer to your work? Were those child-
care expenses incurred so you could go to work or head to the movies on Friday night? The former is deductible; the latter is not. The CRA also want to see your receipts. There are situations where it’s obvious that someone incurred the cost, but they can’t find the receipt. Does that mean they shouldn’t claim it? No, claim it, but be prepared to have a battle if the CRA ever comes back and asks questions. Not blending in: The CRA compares what you report against the norm for your industry, what your colleagues report and even your neighbours. If you’re declaring $40,000 a year income and you live on
a street where everyone else makes $150,000, the CRA is going to wonder how you can live there. Home office expenses: You’re allowed to declare a certain per-
centage of your residence as a home office, but claiming more than 10 or 15 per cent sends a signal. Submitted by Justen Roy BBA. Justen holds a
Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and an Advanced Diploma in Accounting. He can be reached at www. jrstaxandbookkeeping. ca
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February 2017
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