Lanark, north leeds & grenville hometown news may 2017

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No. 5

YOUR INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWSPAPER - LANARK, NORTH LEEDS & GRENVILLE

MAY 2017

Spr i ng F l i ng Running Thing Chilly temperatures and light drizzle didn’t deter these intrepid runners who set off at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 30 at the start of the Spring Fling Running Thing half marathon in Smiths Falls. Another enthusiastic group of runners (inset) took part in the 5 km race the same day. The annual run, held since 2012, is a fundraiser for the Smiths Falls Community Hospital Foundation. Photo credit: Chris Must.

Iconic Carleton Place hotel set for a Grand comeback Carleton Place - Jane Hobson editorial@pdgmedia.ca

For as long as many Carleton Place residents can remember, the hotel on the corner of Lake Avenue East and Bridge Street has just been a heritage piece in the backdrop of the downtown core.

But that’s about to change.

The hotel is set to re-

open at the end of May as a luxury wedding and event venue under the co-ownership of Rod Scribner, Steve Moodie and couple Janice Mathers and Joel Schramek. It will be called The Grand Hotel.

“This whole remake is about honouring the town,” said Scribner, who has been in the restaurant and venue management business in Ottawa for 30

News

years.

Mathers and Schramek own Evermore Weddings and Events in Almonte.

The Grand Hotel will be opened as a sister-venue to Evermore.

“There are many beautiful bed and breakfasts in Almonte but there just isn’t enough room to accommodate all the wedding guests,” Scribner said.

Instead of recommending

Culture

Hillier takes hydro compplaints to Premier

Trsinfest After Dark, newest Canada 150 event for Smiths Falls

Page 4

Page 19

hotels in Kanata or Ottawa, guests will have the option to stay in Carleton Place at The Grant Hotel.

Scribner said they bought the hotel from the most recent owners and well-known Carleton Place Seccaspina family for a seven digit sum — a great amount more than the $30,000 the Lemay family bought the hotel for in 1964.

The hotel has had many owners since it opened in 1872. Originally called the Mississippi Hotel, the building has been the hang out and home of many salesman, bikers, strippers and music lovers. The hotel, which became known as The Grand Ole Lady, was known for its country music and attracted the likes of Stompin’ Tom Connors in the 60s and 70s.

Community Gemmell's celebrates

85 years in business.

“We’re making sure everything we do is a real tip of the hat to the history of the place,” Schramek agreed. “This really is a grandiose, beautiful building and we’re paying homage to that.”

The full potential of the building has not been used in many decades, something the new owners are changing dramatically. continued on page 11

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May 2017

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Page Two

Letter from our Editor

The benefits of being small

I ran in the Spring Fling Running Thing in Smiths Falls on April 30.

It was my first time taking part in the annual event, but I don’t think it will be my last. I’m relatively new to organized races, however I’ve participated in many different sporting events.

I have to give props to the committee behind it all because this was very well organized and the things I was worried about, like parking, getting my chip timer and trail overcrowding, were not an issue. I think this has a lot to do with staying small.

The organizers seemed to know just what they can handle. They’ve accepted that and then in turn have been able to

pull off a great community event. And that’s what it’s all about right?

Ensuring your participants have a great experience.

That’s along the same lines of what we are trying to do here at Hometown News.

We aren’t the biggest publication in the county, and we’re okay with that. We have a small but solid team of reporters and columnists — many of which we know you’ve come to meet and enjoy.

We have a small team and we try focus on the people and places in our community, and highlight what makes this a great place to live, work and play.

That all said, we want to make sure that we are representing the communities we serve the best we can and filling our monthly paper and website with images and stories that our readers want to see and read. To do that, we need your help.

We aren’t mind readers. Hard to believe,

right? So instead of investing in crystal balls we are going to be creating a reader survey.

It will be in an online format and it should be ready in a few weeks.

We’ll be promoting it on our website (www.hometownnews.ca), across our Discover pages on Facebook and in the June issue of the printed version — watch for it!

We want to know what our readers like and don’t like about us — and we really mean that.

We want to know what you don’t like because that’s how we improve.

Praise encourages us to keep on, keeping on but criticism encourages us to take action.

Of course, you don’t have to wait for a reader survey to let us know your thoughts. I’m always interested in what our readers think, so feel free to email me directly at april@pdgmedia.ca

A Blast from the Past:

From the Lanark & District Museum Collection

Cheers, April Scott-Clarke, Editor, Hometown News

Barn Raising at Fosters Farm in Galbraith circa 1900. Photo credit: Middleville Museum You can now find local community events on our website at:

www.hometownnews.ca/events Submit your community event FREE!

Hometownnews PART OF THE DISCOVER COMMUNTIY NETWORK

Publisher Patricia Krotki pmkrotki@pdgmedia.ca

EditoR April Scott-Clarke april@pdgmedia.ca

Reporters: editorial@pdgmedia.ca Kathy Botham Jane Hobson Chris Must Alex Mazur Sarah Nelson Sally Smith Matthew Behrens

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May 2017

3

Carleton Place council struggles with reputational damage

Mayor Louis Antonakos believes that transparency measures such as video streaming of council proceedings – not mediation – are the key to ending the conflicts that currently mark the Carleton Place political landscape. Photo credit: Matthew Behrens.

Carleton Place Matthew Behrens editorial@pdgmedia.ca A slew of high-profile, negative media stories have left Carleton Place with the risk of the town being viewed as a political Peyton Place instead of a signature location to “meet me on the Mississippi.” Front-page exposés alleging backroom malfeasance, a number of integrity commission complaints, and a mayor who appears to shun various media outlets have contributed to a rarely discussed but everpresent tension at weekly council meetings.

That tension’s most recent manifestation was a statement by Deputy Mayor Jerry Flynn on behalf of council that declared Mayor Louis Antonakos “violated the rules” by improperly allowing a community member to address a March 28 meeting.

Flynn said that the allegations levelled at council were “uninformed and unfounded. Council members speculate that [the resident’s] statements were scripted by someone other than himself.

His words attempted to leave the impression that council had in some way, disobeyed the Municipal Act, but in reality all correct procedures were followed and documented.”

At subsequent April council meetings, a number of councillors have clearly referenced the need to strictly adhere to procedural bylaws regarding public delegations.

Earlier this year, Integrity Commissioner Robert Swayze released a report documenting “a toxic relationship between the may-

or and Councillor [Doug] Black. It is clearly beyond constructive rivalry and is damaging to the town.”

While Swayze found no violations by Antonakos and expressed his concern about Black’s “casual approach to disclosing confidential matters,” he warned both men that they could face sanctions if future complaints against them were validated.

In his only public response to the controversy swirling about Carleton Place, Antonakos read a lengthy statement at a March 7 council meeting claiming what was being said about him in various fora was “malicious, abusive and insulting,” in addition to being “defamatory, denigrating, and unauthorized.” Later that evening during a regular meeting of council, he abstained on a motion authorizing Flynn to officially act as council’s media spokesperson, which was supported by all other councillors.

While Antonakos warned the motion would cause “tremendous turmoil” across Ontario, his prediction has not come to fruition.

Meanwhile, Antonakos now faces another integrity commissioner complaint alleging he secretly recorded and shared in-camera council meetings as part of his 2014 election campaign. Notably, council recently voted to ban its members from bringing cell phones to any of their meetings.

When recently asked by Hometown News to respond to questions about his alleged violation of rules, Antonakos said he could not comment.

Despite ongoing tensions, weekly meetings of council

continue without obvious signs of dysfunction. “We are hearing public concern over what council is going through,” Flynn tells Hometown News. “Anyone who approaches me, and I believe I speak for the rest of council, is assured that the town business carries on as usual and that the turmoil we are going through does not affect our decision making.” If anything, Flynn insists that the challenges they face have made council stronger and more determined to do what is right for the community.

Flynn’s biggest concern is “for the health and well being of the members of this council who are dealing with issues that no council should be subjected to,” which in an Ottawa Citizen interview he bluntly referred to as “threats, bullying, intimidation and total lack of respect” coming from the mayor.

When asked how the current impasse with the mayor might be resolved, Flynn deferred saying he would await the latest findings from the integrity commissioner, to be delivered at Carleton Place town council on May 9.

In a March interview with Hometown News, Antonakos insisted he is running a healthy ship of state, viewing conflict arising from “six members of council who have chosen to shut the public out of meetings by not supporting video streaming of council proceedings to the community, censoring public statements from public meeting minutes, making questionable motions and outright attacking my office with misinformation.”

Asked by Hometown News whether he would agree to mediation to address the the concerns of councillors who are feeling intimidated, Antonakos replied, “No, the answer is not mediation, the answer is accountability, responsibility and transparency in serving the constituents of our community.”

As the roiling spring waters of the Mississippi race by the municipal town hall, future Tuesday evening council meetings continue to promise potential political fireworks as Carleton Place faces a 2018 municipal election.

Tool library coming to Perth

Perth - Alex Mazur editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Come the end of May, students in Heritage Carpentry and Joinery at Algonquin College’s Perth campus will be able to walk into the school’s library and take out not only books, but tools they might not otherwise have access to.

The tool library trend has been growing for several years and came to the area in 2014 when the Ottawa Tool Library set up shop. A tool library is simply a place where people with lots of tools can donate theirs for people to borrow and return just like library books.

Jack Hollinger, coordinator of Heritage Carpentry and Joinery program at the college, said that the idea came to him not out of trendiness, but out of necessity.

“I just kind of got the idea because I’ve constantly got people coming up to me asking, ‘Can I borrow this to take home? Can I take this?’ So I thought jeez, we’ve got to have a better way,” he said.

Hollinger teamed up with another instructor from the program, Jim Stinson, to make Perth’s tool library a reality. But this one will be a bit different than most. Usually, tool libraries are filled with tools donated by people who have already used them, whereas the library at the Perth campus will be filled with brand new tools, thanks to the generosity of Robyn Lee, president of Lee Valley Tools, a Canadian woodworking and gardening tool company first es-

Librarian Kendra Swallow will be track the tools like books.

Photo credit: Alex Mazur.

tablished in Ottawa.

Hollinger said that Lee agreed to provide the bulk of the tools from the company’s manufacturing line Veritas. The donations will all be hand tools, things like planes, chisels, saws, items that students can’t necessarily take home from the school’s wood shop, or don’t have the money to buy on their own.

For Corey Pool, who’s near graduating from the two-year program thinks a hand tool library would be extremely beneficial. “It’s great because most students are on a budget and can’t afford all the heritage stuff,” said Pool. “And as apprenticing carpenters learning the trade, it’s important to experiment, so having the hand tools available to take home would be great.”

Hollinger also noted that Lee Valley will be donating replacement blades for planes, and extras for chisels and things of the like, so that when an item is taken out, another can be restored for future use.

A position will be created so that each year, one stu-

dent will be able to maintain the tools in the library.

Currently Stinson is fashioning a cabinet that will be placed in the wall behind the desk in the library, where librarian Kendra Swallow will be able to track the tools like she does books. For Swallow, it will be a new experience.

“I definitely didn’t know that much about hand tools before I started here, but I’ve learned a lot, and will learn much more now,” she said. “It’s an exciting opportunity for the students to be able to have access to a variety of things they wouldn’t necessarily before.”

Hollinger has sent a list to Lee, and that he expects around 60 tools to have to start off the collection. If the project is successful, the library will open up to the public for donations and loans. Hollinger’s already planning on donating.

“I’ve got a good collection of sash tools and stair making tools, and I’ve got a lot of antique tools too,” he said. “We will phase those things in over the next year or two.”

May 2017

4

news

New community navigator will help guide those challenged by community services maze Regional - Jane Hobson ja n e @ p d g m e d i a . c a

Tracy Kwissa, the new community navigator for Lanark County, is based out of the Hunger Stop in Carleton Place. She has an open door — and open heart — policy. Photo credit: Submitted.

“It’s an honour to be in this position and to have people sharing things with me that are hard to share,” said Tracy Kwissa, the new community navigator for Lanark County. “I am very open. I am not judgmental.

Everyone has a valid story that is worthy of being heard and being helped.”

Funded by a one-year Seed Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, this position at The Hunger Stop in Carleton Place, a thread of the Lanark County Food Bank, is responsible for supporting and guiding people through the complex and often overwhelming maze of community services. The community navigator is the go-to person for members of the Lanark County community who need help figuring out things like financial aid and affordable health supplies in order to sleep well

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Perth Canada Day concert The Town of Perth is turning Canada Day into a three-day celebration in honour of Canada’s 150th anniversary, with the party kicking off on June 30 at the Tay Basin.

The Party By the Basin as it’s being dubbed will close down the Crystal Palace parking lot, turning it into a food and entertainment hub. The gates will open at 5 p.m. and the music starts at 7 p.m.

A food market featuring the Midnight Makers, cold brew from the Perth Brewery, a wine and drink table

run by the Stewart Park Festival committee and samples from Top Shelf Distillers will please party-goer tastebuds while they wait for three different musical acts to take the stage.

The Keith Glass Band will get the open-air concert going. Singer/songwriter/ producer Keith Glass is a founding member, guitarist, and songwriter with the Canadian country band Prairie Oyster.

Juno nominated and 2017 International Blues Challenge winner JW-Jones will follow Glass’ performance.

Monkey Junk — the Ottawa-based, Juno award-

winning Canadian rock and roll/swamp/blues band — will close out the night.

“It’s going to be an incredible vibe in the downtown core that day,” says Perth Mayor John Fenik.

“This is going to be an unforgettable way to celebrate Canada’s birthday.”

Tickets for the concert are $25. The ticket will also act as your Perth Passport, which is a local business initiative that gives ticket holders summer-long access to special deals at participating businesses. Only 2,000 tickets are being sold. Tickets are available through Tickets Please.

other stressful things like paying bills or being able to afford glasses for your child,” Kwissa says. “Being able to come here and put good, nutritious food on the table means we are able to help clients with the things that come afterward.”

The Hunger Stop, located at 5 Allan Street in Carleton Place, provides five days worth of meals to clients who register. The Hunger Stop offers bakery items, grocery store items and fresh produce from local donors. Clients ‘shop’ at the The Hunger Stop with the same dignity of variety and choice that they would at grocery stores or markets.

The more people are set up with the resources they need, the more they are able to contribute to the community, Kwissa says. “I want people to know that even when things like anxiety, depression or lack of money make you feel like an outsider or make you feel alone,

you’re not actually alone.

There is a safety net.”

Most importantly, Kwissa wants people to understand that it is okay to ask for help.

“Regardless of what you are going through, you are part of this community and you are not forgotten. I am eager to help, I just need to know who you are and what you need,” she says. “I always say, my door — and my heart — is open.”

As a woman who left an abusive marriage and raised her three children with the support of her friends and family, Kwissa is familiar with poverty and the importance of community services.

“Poverty does not mean you are less clean or uneducated and it does not happen due to something someone did or did not do,” she explains. “It’s just the position that a lot of people find themselves in due to whatever their circumstances are.”

Hillier takes hydro complaints directly to Premier Wynne Regional - Matthew Behrens editorial@pdgmedia.ca

The Rideau Winery Smiths Falls Storm Basketball Dominion Lending Centres Smiths Falls Fire Association Royal LePage Advantage Real Estate The Spring Fling Running Thing Smiths Equipment

Perth - April Scott-Clarke april@pd gmedia.ca

and wake up looking forward to the day ahead.

Kwissa is a passionate volunteer who is involved in many local community services. For example, she has volunteered and worked as a private contractor with the Lanark County Interval House, she sits on the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Advisory Board for Lanark County and she co-facilitates a support group for parents with children who struggle with mental illness.

As someone who has always been naturally inclined to help others, Kwissa said the 20 hour per week position is perfect for her.

She says The Hunger Stop makes sense as a first point of contact for clients who need to be hooked up with additional community resources. “When you spend all day thinking about how hungry you are, or how hungry your kids are, it becomes more difficult to deal with

As part of his ongoing battle against astronomically high Hydro One rates in rural Ontario, Lanark-Frontenac-Lennox & Addington MPP Randy Hillier is seeking letters of concern and complaint from his constituents, which he pledges to personally deliver to Premier Kathleen Wynne.

The idea for area residents to photocopy their Hydro One bills and outline their individual stories over skyrocketing costs came up during a telephone town hall Hillier held with over 3,000 people earlier this spring.

“Everyone has their own story,” says the outspoken MPP. “When the cost of a necessity gets to such a degree that it prevents you from purchasing other necessities, we've got ourselves a problem. That’s what many of these people have to do: make choices we ought not to have to make in a country like Canada.” Hillier says some residents have to choose between adequately heating their homes and eating properly.

As rural Ontarians have faced monthly hydro bills of up to $500 – with one notorious case of an unoccupied farmhouse receiving a $25,000 bill – Hillier says advocacy campaigns like his have helped the premier realize the scale of the problem.

Indeed, last fall, Wynne took personal responsibility in a public talk, saying "It was my mistake. And I'm going to do my best to fix it."

Hillier’s office has received over 500 letters and bills, and he’s taken some of the writ-

ten submissions into daily question period at Queen’s Park. He says that activism in the form of public events, demonstrations, petitions, and direct lobbying have been crucial to some of the changes now occurring, from the ombudsman investigating poor customer service and billing errors to Wynne’s recently announced cut in Hydro One rates. But Hillier says Wynne’s shortterm solutions fail to address what he views as the bigger problem.

“At the end of the day, it's pretty simple,” Hillier believes. “We have a diminishing demand for electricity in our province. Every year we build more and more expensive capacity. So those two things on their own tell you there’s a problem. You throw in the third element of the rising cost to provide the operations and overhead and administration. We’re trying to reduce the marketplace while increasing our costs of production. Any other business

would be bankrupt. That’s not a partisan statement, it's just a basic business model, and this one is flawed.”

While historically low polling numbers are certainly a concern for Wynne, Hillier believes the Hydro One debacle has been “an eye-opener for her, and I want her eyes to be opened further. It’s only awareness that brings resolution to problems.” With an election scheduled for 2018 Hillier says, “I don't know what other muck-ups we're going to see from this government between now and then,” but he believes continued pressure in the form of initiatives like the letter campaign will remain crucial.

Recalling a lesson he learned from his days with the Lanark Landowners Association, Hillier says “getting people involved truly is the only way to make a difference and be influential in the making of public policy.

Some people have infinite wealth to wield influence, but

MPP Randy Hillier holds a sample of the hundreds of letters and Hydro One bills he plans to personally deliver to Premier Kathleen Wynne at Queen’s Park. Photo credit: Matthew Behrens.

May 2017

5

news

Smiths Falls council agrees to fund ARC swimming pool

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Aqua fitness classes are highly popular at the community pool. Photo credit: Smiths Falls & District Aquatic Recreation Centre.

Smiths Falls - Chris Must editorial@pdgmedia.ca At a May 1 meeting, Smiths Falls town councillors narrowly managed to achieve an agreement on providing municipal operating funds to the Smiths Falls & District Aquatic Recreation Centre (ARC) in 2017.

A volunteer group operates the facility, which is the former Rideau Regional Centre Pool, now located within the Gallipeau Centre.

With $26,600 already set aside in the town’s 2017 budget for a community grant to ARC, councillors who objected to providing taxpayers’ dollars to a facility on private property agreed to compromise, recognizing that Smiths Falls can’t afford to build its

own public pool.

Because the $26,600 grant was intended to be paid only if neighbouring municipalities whose residents use the pool agree to pay a combined equivalent amount, councillors agreed to pay the full amount only if matching funds are forthcoming. Any shortfall in the funding from neighbours will instead be applied to the cost of paying for free swims and for bus transportation to the pool from downtown on free swim days.

Councillors John Maloney and Dawn Quinn argued that the town’s contribution to ARC should be paid in monthly installments rather than as a lump sum, so that the pool’s financial viability can be moni-

tored during the year.

“I’m not open to giving them this money at all,” Quinn stated.

Because buses provided to take swimmers to the pool during March Break weren’t well used, Mayor Shawn Pankow suggested that it would be better to apply the shortfall portion of the town’s funding to pay for more free swims rather than for transportation.

However, Maloney said the buses could be offered as a “pilot project” and cancelled if usage was too low.

After it was agreed that the grant would be paid in installments, buses would be provided and the free swims scheduled only on school professional development days, council agreed to provide the funding.

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The 2nd Smiths Falls Beavers collected garbage during this year's Pitch-In event on April 24. The Beavers were joined by Cst. Mike Gallagher and Cst. Dan King who helped with the clean up. Photo credit: Nicola Thomson.

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community Moose commuter train plan battles federal government railroading regional - Matthew Behrens editorial@pdgmedia.ca Smiths Falls residents hoping to enjoy commuter rail service into Ottawa this year will have to wait a while longer as Moose, the private company behind the proposal for a 400 kilometre interprovincial route, battles a federal government that seems uninterested in working with the project.

As Canada plans its 150th anniversary, celebrating a history in which railroads have played a key role, Moose director general Joseph Potvin is scratching his head over why his company’s vision to create frequent train access across a wide expanse of the national capital region is tied up in legal proceedings that have delayed the planned 2017 launch.

“To use a metaphor, it’s like there’s a hockey game underway, there’s some teeth on the ice, and the

referee is sitting on the bench reading the hockey manual about high sticking,” Potvin says. “There’s a section of track that the city of Ottawa took out that is protected under federal laws and regulations, so we took that to court. It should have taken 90 days to turn around but it’s been going on for the better part of a year.”

Potvin says the Canadian Transportation Agency, the body tasked with enforcing railway regulations, is within sight of the one kilometre of track that was removed, but did nothing to stop what he calls a “serious violation of federal law.” With Ottawa constructing a permanent obstruction to the former rail line, the only way to get the project back on track is constructing a bypass that engineers estimate could cost upwards of $25 million. Potvin calls that single kilometre of track the most important in the

whole network, as it is the only connection between Ottawa and Gatineau, and the Moose business model relies on an inter-provincial structure.

The vision for Moose is to use existing rail track to link Arnprior to Papineauville, Bristol to Maxville, and Smiths Falls to La Peche (Wakefield) to create easy access across for business and leisure. While Potvin reports enthusiastic support from Ontario municipalities, some Quebec towns have thrown up not in my backyard responses, including fears that the rail service would compete with, rather than complement, existing bus service.

“We have significant fan base with City of Ottawa staff, but we will always get opposition from that part of city politics that will ensure there will always be clumsy transit outside of Ottawa’s property tax base,” Potvin says. “If you have easy transit to those

areas, then companies fi nd it quite easy to locate in Smiths Falls or Arnprior or Montebello. But if you are a protectionist at the municipal level, Smiths Falls’ gain would be perceived as Ottawa’s loss.”

Potvin believes it’s a crucial time for those towns that would benefit from commuter rail to speak up.

“The role that municipalities such as Smiths Falls and Arnprior can play is to make their voices heard with their federal politicians,” he says. “Th is an issue where the referee has to get off the bench and blow the whistle.”

Though still determined and optimistic, Potvin says “2017 will be the watershed year: either it pushes forward or it’s toast. I don’t get frustrated. This may or may not succeed. What’s a mystery to me is why the feds sit back and let a multi-billion dollar asset go to waste.”

Local Kayaker aims to paddle on national and olympic teams Carleton Place - Jane Hobson editorial@pdgmedia.ca

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After nine weeks at training camp in Melbourne, Florida, Carleton Place kayaker Monica Black is back on the Mississippi River and her training is as intense as ever.

Black wants to represent Canada at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan and is confident of her chances. She trained with the Canadian women’s team in Florida to prepare for trials coming up in mid-May at the Olympic Basin in Montreal, Quebec.

During these trials the athletes for the U23 national team will be selected, and athletes on the national team compete for a place at the Olympics. “I know I can do it because I’m very determined and motivated. I love doing it every day,” Black says. “I feel the best — the most myself — when I’m on the water.”

Black has been paddling at the Carleton Place Canoe Club (CPCC) since she was about 10 years old. “I fell in love [with kayaking] because I love being outside in nature and I love being on the water,” she says. “I really love the natural environment.”

Now 23-years-old with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Carleton Univer-

Carleton Place kayaker Monica Black practices at the Carleton Place Canoe Club. Photo credit: Jane Hobson.

sity under her belt, Black’s high-intensity training program is her full-time job.

She spends about 30 hours per week training. She’s on the water every morning and evening for two hours at a time and hits the gym three times a week for weights.

“The workout depends on the program cycle, but training is super intense right now since trials are around the corner,” Black says.

Don’t be fooled, training does not stop when the workout does. “It’s really important to make sure I’m eating right — and eating a lot — and sleeping for long enough to make sure I’m getting enough rest. It really is a lifestyle.”

Aside from experiencing extreme physical exhaustion, her training is also

mentally exhausting. “A lot of the time my brain is telling me to stop and I have to push through. But it’s worth it when you start to see improvements like a faster speed,” she says.

Black’s lifestyle requires her to make a lot of sacrifices. She doesn’t stay out late or drink alcohol, which sometimes makes socializing with friends a challenge.

“I’m really lucky because I get a lot of good support from close friends. Even though we don’t see each other often, they’re always cheering me on — literally and metaphorically,” she says. “They understand that I have goals I’m trying to reach and it’s alright if our goals look different.”

Along with the support from her friends, Black also relies on her family for support. “My mom and dad

and brother not only support me but they inspire me because they want to see me do my best, and they tolerate me when I’m grumpy,” she says.

Even through the pain, Black paddles because it feels good to do something she loves every day. “Isn’t that what everyone wants in life? To do something they love? I look forward to it regardless of how hard it gets,” she says.

Of course if Black achieves her goal of representing Canada on the world stage, she will be representing her hometown of Carleton Place as well.

“If I had to bring one thing from home with me to the Olympics it would probably be a bakery sandwich from the Old Town Bakery,” she laughs. “I love those.”

May 2017

7

community

Perth Inside Out:

by Terry O'Hearn

Conlon Farm Recreation Complex is showcased - Part 4 Construction on Conlon Farm Recreation Complex commenced in 1988, and long-time softball enthusiast Neil Fennell watched closely to see if his dream of Perth hosting a tournament for competitive teams might finally come true through the availability of suitable facilities.

Soon Fennell thought he had his answer, and he began to educate himself on the current state of the game by attending tournaments and talking to team members and management all over North America.

His discoveries led him to believe such an event would work in Perth, and the organizational machine that became the Perth Invitational Fastball Tournament committee was born.

The two core assistants from the start were Janice Sullivan and Carole Fuller, both chartered accountants, and softball fans in their own right. The women remained with the committee all 12 years of its existence from 1990 until 2001. Sullivan passed away in 2008, the same year Fuller was given the Lanark County Award of Excellence for Volunteers. Fennell is quick to point that his wife Connie and daughter Melissa also helped and supported him and the tournament “through thick and thin” all those years.

Fennell said his goal was to “provide world-class fastpitch softball entertainment within a family-friendly, alcohol-free environment. You can reach your sporting goals without promoting alcohol consumption.” There were many who disagreed a ball tournament could take place without the omnipresent beer tent.

Leading up to that first tournament in 1990, almost no one outside Perth had seen the progression at the Conlon Farm facilities, and remarks filtering down from inside the North American softball community indicated these elite teams were really just wondering how big the cow pasture was.

“Year one, 1990, I think we planned a one-year tournament to showcase Conlon Farm Park and fastpitch softball,” mused Fennell when we talked recently. “The opening of Conlon Farm Park served to showcase a fabulous sports facility within a small town setting.” Fans would flock to that first event to fill the bleachers and set up hundreds of lawn chairs in the surrounding area. Bringing back a sport most had played growing up in small town Ontario had struck a chord across the region.

Fennell went on to say that “Few communities

opinion:

could boast such a multiple-use sports complex.”

Although the finishing touches were not on Conlon Farm that first year, fans and teams alike were so impressed that the number of teams wanting to enter the tournament increased each subsequent year. Fennell and his committee succeeded brilliantly in showcasing the Town of Perth, the Conlon Farm facility, and the sport of fastpitch softball.

“Success breeds success, and year two was put together as one of the events around Perth’s 175th anniversary. From then on one year lead to another as we built on our success.”

Fennell noted that in later years the event became known as the “Perth Fastball Shootout.”

A small committee of no more than 10 people managed to stage the events, with up to 150 volunteers assisting on the tournament weekend. They had secured funding by sponsorship from community service groups and small business, with additional monies raised through car washes and barbeques.

“We gave our tournament profits to local charities and started over next tournament,” said Fennell.

“I travelled to tournaments across North America and communicated with teams

and fans year round. The tournament’s success lead to International Organizations requesting an opportunity to compete in Perth.

Some examples are: New Zealand (multiple tournaments); Australia (1996); Denmark (1999); Canadian Men’s National Team (1996); and U.S. Men’s PanAm Team (1999). The event simply was viewed as one of the finest fastball tournaments anywhere in North America.”

“Over 12 years we stayed the course and brought to Perth many players and fans who might otherwise never visit the Town of Perth,” he added. “The park withstood a real test each tournament weekend. Conlon Farm’s two slowpitch diamonds were converted to fastball diamonds. The grounds were cleaned and cut, bleachers brought in, tents went up, and sound systems put in place. Ron Harrison and Cogeco Cable were great supporters, and for years a team of people from Cogeco filmed the games and made available for public viewing.”

The proverbial end of the good thing came after the 2001 tournament.

“Fatigue, and a feeling that we as a small dedicated group of community volunteers have accomplished more than we could ever hope, decided to move on,” said Fennell.

More than $130,000 had been raised for local charities, with the single largest beneficiary being Lanark County Big Brothers/Big Sisters. “A large part of the fundraising was with the help of Paul Martin and staff of Coldwell Banker Real Estate,” Fennell added.

Fennell still counts some of the world’s most outstanding fastball players as close friends, including Canadian pitcher Brad Underwood from Owen Sound, who was considered one of the best players in the world, and Mark Sorenson, who captained the New Zealand national team, the Black Sox, from 1989 to 2001, and again in

2004.

For Neil Fennell and many others, memories of those glory days at the fastball tournaments will last a lifetime. The benefits to the Town of Perth can never be calculated precisely, but safe to say the fastball tournaments were a showcase of the little town’s facilities the likes of which no other small community could dream of.

If you are interested in the present-day operation of Conlon Farm, stay with us and next month we’ll hear from Shannon Baillon, Perth’s current director of community services..

Terry@pdgmedia.ca

Perth Fastball tournament organizer Neil Fennell holds a framed photo of the New Zealand national team. In that photo, front left and right, are Janice Sullivan and Carole Fuller, his main assistants. They often travelled with teams for exhibition games prior to tournaments. Photo credit: Terry O’Hearn

Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum OPEN FOR THE SEASON

Am I the only one?

by Carrie Wynne

Truth and consequences of the all encompassing cellphone

I watched someone check Facebook during a business meeting the other day. I felt so insignificant and unimportant I wanted to throw my hands up in the air. We’re acting like a bunch of teenagers; drunk on cellphone drama and convinced it’s more important than the people right in front of us.

If I’m standing with someone using their device I don’t automatically assume they’re being rude.

Something really important has to be happening on

their phone. I don’t think it’s antisocial or socially awkward or impolite. They could be running a huge multi-national business or helping a friend off the ledge or maybe their house is on fire.

It’s lovely to remain in touch with people we don’t see, but are we talking to the people who live in the same house or sleep in the same bed?

Cellphones don’t belong in the boardroom, at the dinner table or in the classroom, yet it’s the new normal. I think society is moving in the wrong direction with verbal communication. It’s becoming a lost art like handwriting.

Years ago cellphones were purchased for emergencies only. Now it’s the control centre of the universe. I text my kids in the house all the time, “Bring up milk, turn off the light, shut the garage, are you home yet?

I’m saving my vocal cords.

I doubt I would ever pre-

pare a dinner, walk my dog or run on the elliptical without listening to a podcast. Modern life has been reduced to the palm of our hands. It has replaced all these lame single use devices like calendars, watches, cameras and alarms.

We’re consumption fanatics, all jacked up with these ravenous appetites on a morbid unquenchable pursuit for more more more.

The cellphone keeps my ADHD and OCD ramped up. I get over stimulated and start to freak out. Every hour of every day seems a bit much so I try and tilt the scale. The device sits quietly beside me, egging me on.

Wanna play? Wanna play?

I say okay but only for five minutes.

Signed, Am I the Only One? Carrie's column reflects her own opinions and not necessarily those of Hometown News.

May 13 – 31: Open Weekends, 10 am – 5 pm June 1 – October 31: Open Wed, Fri, & Sun, 10 am – 5 pm, Thurs & Sat 12 pm – 8 pm Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum 11 Old Sly’s Road, Smiths Falls, Ontario 613-283-6311 heritagehouse@smithsfalls.ca www.facebook.com/HeritageHouseMuseum

May 2017

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community

Perth Walking Food Tour Merrickville-Wolford's is set to launch on May 13 new fire chief has big plans regional - Sally Smith editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Photo credit: Submitted.

regional - Submitted

Imagine strolling along the streets of downtown Perth on a sunny, Saturday afternoon, hearing stories about the buildings, the businesses and the people that created the town over the past 200 plus years.

These cultural and culinary tales will be shared with you as you meander through some of Perth’s best restaurants and bakeries, tasting and savouring their food. When you leave the tour, your belly will be full and your head filled with some unforgettable stories and experiences that’ll stay with you for years. Welcome to the Perth Walking Food Tour.

What, in the name of macaroons, is a walking food tour you ask? Essentially, it’s a three-hour guided tour on Saturdays from May 13 to June 24 starting at 1 p.m. The

guides will take you on a prescribed route and throughout the tour they will share some stories from the town’s past that you’ve never heard before. It’s not your typical small-town history lesson.

Instead, you’re going to hear some jaw-dropping stories about the town’s culinary and cultural makeup. Think, less like a Grade 6 history class and more like a backstage pass at a Celine Dion Vegas Show. Without all the hairspray.

While you’re hearing these stories, you’ll be stopping in at seven downtown establishments, where you’ll be given samples of their best offerings. Hint: don’t eat lunch. The participating restaurants include the Sunflower Bake Shop, Maximilian’s Restaurant, Fiddlehead’s Bar & Grill, The Rocky River Café, O’Reilly’s Ale House, Coutt’s Coffee Roastery & Café and the

Stone Cellar Restaurant.

Each Saturday’s tour is limited to 16 participants, which will make it a unique and personable experience.

The walking tour will launch from the Perth Museum each Saturday afternoon. You’ll be greeted by friendly Perth Tourism staff.

The Walking Food Tour first started last spring, and it was a big hit. Each tour sold out and the participants raved about the experience.

Tickets are $35 each and can be picked up at Tickets Please (located at the Perth Museum) from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or be ordered online at TicketsPlease.com or by calling 613-485-6434.

A portion of ticket sales will be donated to The Table Community Food Centre.

To learn more about the Perth Walking Food Tour, please visit catscovecommunications.com.

He’s a thinker and a planner. Mark Urquhart has been on the job as Mer r ick v i l le-Wol ford ’s Fire Chief for less than a month and already has ideas he wants to put into play. He wants to add junior and auxiliary members to the fire department.

This is his way of getting youth interested and involved (and have a trained crew on hand when they turn 18), and to also keep the deep knowledge and understanding in the department by calling on the ‘old guys’ who don’t want to be as active anymore but want to stay connected.

Urquhart’s two-pronged career spans 33 years as a paramedic and a volunteer firefighter. At the age of 14 he knew what he wanted to do; at the age of 18, in Gr. 13, he was kicked out of school and told to go to work, Urquhart says with a grin. That was probably because his pager kept going off and he’d have to leave to get to the ambulance.

That wasn’t the end of his schooling, though. He went to Algonquin College for the Ambulance Emergency Care program, graduated, and wrote his Emergency Medical Care Assistant papers, which allowed him to work full time in Ontario. In 1985 was hired in Brockville

Newly appointed Merrickville-Wolford Fire Chief Mark Urquhart knew from a young age what he wanted to do in his life. Photo credit: Sally Smith.

and he stayed there until 1989 at which time he, and the owner of the ambulance service, became the youngest owner and supervisor of an ambulance service in Ontario. He was 23 and the owner was 25.

On reflection, he says, “I really didn’t know the responsibilities at that time.

I didn’t have the training.”

So he moved forward to get the training. First following his passion as a paramedic, and second becoming a volunteer firefighter. He’s been in the fire service for 25 years.

Before Merrickville he worked out of Lansdowne Station for 19 years with the Leeds and 1000 Islands Fire Service.

The secret about the joy and passion in his life, he says, is he teaches what he has learned. “I had good partners and great mentors who understood common sense,” he says.

Urquhart values both common sense and logic, and teaches using personal anecdotes and stories. As a matter of fact, there’s nothing he enjoys more than seeing men and women he’s taught out in the field putting his lessons into action.

Soon to be 52, he says he’ll never retire — he’ll just move on and learn something else. He’s the type of man who “enjoys doing something different all the time.”

Céad míle fáilte!

The Town of Smiths Falls extends a warm welcome to residents and visitors to our community as we celebrate our Irish heritage during Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

Celebrating our

Irish Legacy

In 2016 the Town passed a resolution to embark on a formal twinning with the town of Carnew, in County Wicklow, Ireland. In March and April of this year, we kicked off the Irish Legacy Project with several events in celebration of the twinning.

in Smiths Falls

A special connection exists between our region and the Coollattin Estate in County Wicklow, where over 6000 Irish left the Estate under a program of assisted emigration that Lord Fitzwilliam, owner of the Estate, initiated in the late 1840s.

UPCOMING EVENTS May through August: Our Town: Smiths Falls in 1867 Canada Including exhibits on Ottawa Valley Irish Heritage At Heritage House Museum 613-283-6311

A large number of Fitzwilliam emigrés settled in Smiths Falls and the surrounding area, including the townships of Bastard, Burgess, Kitley, Lombardy, Montague, North and South Crosby, North and South Elmsley, Wolford, and Yonge. By 1871 the population in this area was over 60% Irish.

June 24: Highland on the Rideau Pipe, Drum and Band Competition, Celtic dancing, including Irish Jig www.gordonpipeband.com

The Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency Mr. Kevin Vickers, launched the Canadian Coollattin Connection in Ireland to connect descendants of those early immigrants with their history and family in County Wicklow (For more information visit www.

CoollattinCanadianConnection.com).

June 25: Irish Ceili and Picnic Featuring Celtic music with Seventh Town, Irish Ceili dance caller, Historical Presentations, and Genealogy Workshops At Heritage House Museum, 613-283-6311

For the past few years Irish descendants have welcomed Canadians to County Wicklow – and this year, it is our turn!

June 28: Golf Tournament & Irish Homestead Dinner and Dance Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on the historic Balfe farm, now the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club Featuring live music including Irish fiddle www.smithsfallschamber.com

Join us as we welcome our Irish cousins to Smiths Falls to explore the region, our shared history, and the landscape that our Irish ancestors found themselves in as they made a new home for themselves in Eastern Ontario.

June 30: Steel City Rovers Back again after their popular 2016 appearance, enjoy Celtic music on stage at The Station Theatre www.smithsfallstheatre.com

www.SmithsFalls.ca/Canada150.cfm

1-888-983-4124

facebook.com/Canada150SmithsFalls

May 2017

9

community

Gemmell’s celebrates 85 years in business

ed . Photo submitt s Garden Centre el' m m Ge o ot Vintage ph

Since 1932, Gemmell’s Garden Centre has had a passion for growing locally; the staff simply loves plants.

Rob Gemmell’s grandfather, Donald, began this horticultural adventure with a small roadside stand where he sold flowers, fruit and vegetables. Now 85 years later Gemmell’s Garden Centre stands on 14 acres with 24 greenhouses, a proud achievement.

The garden centre is renowned for selling unique and beautiful plants to the gardeners of Eastern Ontario. The

garden centre is famous for its beautifully custom designed Victorian hanging baskets and planters, as well as always growing the latest and greatest introductions; it has the esteemed pleasure of custom growing flowers for several local townships including in 2017 the Town of Smiths Falls, Town of Brockville, Athens Blooms, Village of Westport, the U.S. Embassy and many other independent businesses.

Always being ahead of the trends has always been a strong point for Gemmell’s. Following

the lead from their European counterparts, this season Gemmell’s Garden Centre has expanded once more with a fashion store that includes beautiful cotton, bamboo and linens from India as well as a funky collection of beautifully printed fair trade dresses and tops from Nepal, handmade jewellery from Bali, printed floral scarves and more.

The extensive amount of work and organization it takes to grow and operate a greenhouse of this size requires a lot of hardworking and dedicated people. Gemmell’s

would not be what it is today without their wonderful staff that truly is the backbone of this business.

In its 85th year Gemmell’s would like to thank all its wonderful customers for their support and encouragement over the years.

Please come out and celebrate with us on May 6 for the Spring Open House. There will be lots of new and exciting plants, garden decor, furniture, fashion, and more.

Paid advertisement

Ariel view of G

emmel's Garde

n Centre. Ph oto submitted

Staff at Gemmel's Garden Centre. Photo submitted

column: Carleton Place Social Notes

by Sarah Cavanagh

Ah May….April’s manic weather with its last bite of frost and torrential rains is behind us and it’s blue skies and sunshine ahead.

The world is buzzing again – the bugs are back (groan) but the birds are singing, the perennials are sprouting and we can pack away all the dreaded snow gear.

May is a month of action. We’ll rejoice fellow Carleton Place natives – our town does May right.

Patio tables are appearing street side, the annual Pitch-In volunteers have worked diligently to clean up the parks and roadsides and neighbours are raking lawns and cleaning out their garden beds. Suddenly there is colour and a bustle downtown as folks emerge from their long hibernation.

Some of our favourite annual events are back too!

Comic Day Free Comic Day returns to downtown Carleton Place on May 6 at 10 a.m. Bridge Street will be transformed as fans big and small visit shops

for Comic Book themed activities, special guests and of course a free comic!

Wine’d Around Downtown This annual event is the footnote to May. Buy your T-shirt ($25) and participate in the fun on May 28 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. This annual wine and food tasting extravaganza raises funds for the CP Sister City Committee to help youth from our community and our sister cities (Comrie, Scotland and Franklin, Tennessee) participate in student exchange opportunities.

Community BOGO dinner Another popular fundraiser is the Community BOGO dinner for the Lanark County Food Bank happening at St. James Anglican church on May 16 at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a fabulous meal and every dinner ticket purchased allows a Food Bank client to attend the dinner as well.

Spring art show and sale On May 26 and 27 enjoy the beautiful Missis-

sippi from the Carleton Place Canoe Club while you browse the annual spring art show and sale.

There are also some new traditions beginning this year.

New events this season The newly formed Hometown Hearts is kicking off their calendar of community events with their May 11 Night on the Town. Starting at 5 p.m., get on your retro gear and head downtown for live entertainment, food and drinks.

As part of Canada’s 150 celebrations in Carleton Place you can take part in the Paint the Town Red Tulip Tour from May 14 to May 20, which launches the opening of a new exhibit at the Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum, A Valley Town at Confederation.

On May 26, pack up the family and grab a picnic and join your neighbours at Riverside Park for the Family Fun Fair.

Sarah’s column reflects her own opinions and not necessarily those of Hometown News

May 2017

10

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May 2017

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lifestyle Keep boating rules and safety top of mind this season regional - Sarah Cavanagh editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Iconic Carleton Place hotel set for a Grand comeback

The hotel on the corner of Lake Avenue East and Bridge Street in Carleton Place is set to reopen in late-May as The Grand Hotel. Photo credit: Jane Hobson.

Carleton Place - Jane Hobson editorial@pdgmedia.ca continued from front page 1 The Grand Hotel will offer a 1,200 square foot bridal suite with an en suite and two fireplaces, 15 tastefully designed hotel rooms, a large getting-ready lounge, and a ballroom, all with an elegant early-1900s vibe.

“We’re going for a classic but timeless style that honours the beautiful and grandiose history of the building,” said Mathers who is responsible for the interior design of the renovation.

The inside of the building oozes a modern but old-time sophistication that matches the impressive architecture of the outside. Upon opening the large main door on Bridge Street, visitors to the hotel are greeted by a curved, carpeted staircase and high ceilings.

“What makes us really unique as a wedding and event space is that we will have a fully customizable menu thanks to our inhouse chef,” Scribner said.

The chef’s name is still under wraps until he finishes up at his current location in Ottawa.

Aside from the wedding venue, The Grand Hotel will be a perfect venue for corporate events, parties and other celebrations.

The venue will boast a public fine-dining spacecalled The Grand Dining Room. The elegant space, which is close to being completely ready, seats 40 people in a large room where white tablecloths cover the tables and cushioned chairs beckon visitors to sit back and unwind.

“It will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday so people can come in to have a wonderful meal in a casual atmosphere at a great price,” Scribner said.

He said they also plan to host a jazz night on the first Thursday of every month.

Scribner said the pub attached to the hotel will also re-open under the name Smith and Barrel, to honour the blacksmith and barrel-making industries that drove economic development in Carleton

Place in its earliest years of settlement.

“We’ll put a nice twist on pub classics and it’ll be priced accordingly for the town,” Scribner said.

Mathers said the timeless 1900s style will continue in Smith and Barrel, which will be open 7 days a week. “I’ll be carrying chandeliers right through into the pub so it will still be very atmospheric, kind of a sexy room, really,” she said.

“Our goal is to bring this whole corner of the downtown back to life with a pub with great food, great live music, a fine-dining room and an opportunity to have the whole place to yourself for a wedding,” Scribner said.

Scribner said renovating the character of the building has been an amazing experience. “It’s had a really colourful, awesome history and what we’re trying to do here is bring out all the best in it so people can enjoy it again. It really is a renewal.”

An official grand opening date has not yet been chosen.

As the water levels rise in our local lakes and streams, boaters of all kinds are gearing up for a new season out on the water. A burgeoning lake may seem inviting but it takes more than a sturdy hull to make you a sailor.

In order to operate a motorized boat over 10 HP in Canada you are required to successfully complete the boater exam and obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. There is no age exemption – the law applies to all people wanting to drive a boat.

A license is good for life with no annual fees and is valid in every province. BOATERexam. com is a Transport Canada approved course provider that does an online course, exam (with free retries) and temporary cards for immediate use. The cost is $49.95.

Not only as a means of gauging your nautical know-how, this licensing system allows search and rescue personnel access to information about your boat in the event of an emergency.

If you are thinking of buying a boat make sure that it has a hull serial number, a Canadian compliance notice and if necessary, a copy of the declaration of conformity. A Canadian compliance notice indicates that the boat met the construction requirements at the time it was built. If it is a used boat, ensure that it meets the construction standards, marine surveyors can be employed to conduct the examination on your behalf.

Boat trailers are also subject to licensing and regulation and require you to transfer ownership at the regional licence bureau.

If boat building is your thing, remember when constructing a pleasure craft it must meet or exceed the construction requirements of the Small Vessel Regulations and the construction standards outlined by Transport Canada.

Safety equipment is necessary on all marine vessels and the most obvious of these items are lifejackets, also known as personal f loatation devices (PFD). Equipment requirements are the same whether you

own, rent or borrow the boat and includes all types of vessels. Prestocked safety kits can be purchased at local retailers like Canadian Tire and are often standard issue with new or rented boats.

For more information about boating safety you can call the toll free info line at 1-800-267-6687.

Canada’s Criminal Code applies to boating in that activities such as operating a boat while impaired, failing to stop at the scene of an accident or operating an unseaworthy boat are punishable offences.

Boating laws can change from time to time and so it is important to review the safe boating regulations available on Transport Canada’s webpage.

Here are few other things to remember when out in a boat.

Share the water It is also good to keep in mind that while your safety as captain of the ship is important, the water is meant for all to enjoy. Be a responsible boater by sharing the water with others – whether they be fellow sea captains, wildlife, swimmers or shoreline frolickers.

Be wary of your wake You are legally responsible to follow the rules of the water to avoid accidents. These rules include speed limits, which can be affected by variables such as wind and water conditions, time of day and weather.

Do not drink and boat Drinking while operating a marine vessel is an infraction of the Criminal Code of Canada. When in doubt contact local OPP for more information on the regulations.

Know lock safety In Lanark County you must be cautious around dams and lock stations.

Undertows, low clearance, backwash can all be deadly. Be mindful of signage and know the lay of the land before heading out.

You can find out information about travelling through the canals and locks in our area from Parks Canada at www.pc.gc.ca. You will need to know the proper size for your mooring lines, have working f loating fenders and also be aware of the rules in and around the locks.

Some locks have restrictions on noise, fish-

ing, swimming and towing. They all have posted speed limits and codes of conduct when it comes to where and how to wait your turn and how to properly enter, exit and moor. The onsite lock masters and other Parks Canada staff will help guide you through the process. You will require a pass to travel through the locks but you’re in luck, in celebration of Canada's 150th birthday, the seasonal lockage permit for 2017 is free.

With your licence in hand, PFD and bucket of safety equipment tucked away, you are ready to launch your boat. There are many boat ramps, boat launches and public access points across Lanark County.

In Carleton Place, there is a municipal boat launch at Riverside Park and the cost is only $8/ day. A season pass for unlimited launch access is $45. All passes can be purchased at town hall.

There is also docking at Riverside Park as well and downtown across from town hall on Bridge St. at the public parking lot. The perfect spot to dock and hop off for a quick lunch in downtown Carleton Place before continuing on your boating adventure.

In Smiths Falls, the Rideau Canal system is accessible via the Detached Locks on Abbott St. The area has a ramp, dock and parking available and the launch supports watercraft up to 20 feet in length. A little further down the canal there are boat launches to the Lower Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes in Rideau Ferry.

The Rideau Ferry Yacht club has a ramp and offers a day use pass.

The ramp serves boats up to 18 feet long. For larger water, and larger craft head to 110 Coutts Bay Rd and the Rideau Ferry Harbour where you can launch a boat up to 40 feet long, dock your boat and park for the day. There is a launch fee, so call ahead.

In the Perth area there are public launches for Christie Lake via Hannah Road and Otty Lake off Miller Bay Road. If you’re heading to Silver Lake you can access that waterway through the Silver Lake Provincial Park. Parking is available and usage charges may apply. Anchors away!

May 2017

12

Home and Garden Garden Matters:

Succulents & air plants trending in gardens everywhere

If you haven’t bought these hip house plants then you have been missing out!

Succulents and air plants are on trend this season.

Their clean structural appeal has recently struck a chord with gardeners and designers young and old alike. With so many different types to choose from it’s often hard to pick just one.

Succulents What is a succulent? Any of various plants having fleshy leaves or stems that store water.

Succulents truly are the perfect plant for forgetful gardeners. Succulent care is easy, and succulent gardens and terrariums add drama and elegance to any indoor or outdoor space.

When succulents are indoors it’s often hard for them to get enough sunlight. Rule of thumb is about 6 hours a day. Therefore keep them close to a window in bright light.

Outside they prefer the

same, so a nice sunny spot on you patio is perfect.

Most of the cool funky succulents are not winter hardy so they need to be brought inside in the cold weather. Always plant succulents in a light potting mix with lots of sand or perlite to allow proper drainage. They don’t like wet feet so cactus soil is the best choice. The common misconception is that succulents like to be consistently dry. This is actually not completely true. Succulents need to be watered so that the soil is thoroughly wet. Then, they need to be left to dry out completely before you water again.

These are the perfect plants for lazy gardeners because even when left to dry out they recover magnificently.

Air plants These unusual plants look like something from prehistoric times. Tillandsia, known as air plant, is an epiphyte. This means that it doesn't need soil,

but, instead obtains water and nutrients from the air.

The coolest way to display air plants are in clear glass terrariums that hang or sit in windows. They truly are a piece of plant art in your home. There are a few ways to care for them.

Most growers advise misting them once or twice a week but another method is soaking them in a bowl for 15 minutes once a week then allowing them to dry out upside down so the water runs out before placing them back in their terrarium.

Have we convinced you yet to try these cool little plants? It’s such a simple way to connect with the earth with minimal effort.

Simply pick out your favourite plant, a funky little pot and a bag of cactus soil and you are on your way to joining the succulove movement.

Peace & Plants, Kelly Heath Gemmell’s Garden Centre

Inspect it all before powering up at the cottage When you’re opening your cottage this spring, be sure to do more than just open the windows to air the place out.

Inspect your power source No matter your power source, start by inspecting the units where the electricity is generated or delivered.

In the case of solar, wind or generator, follow the manufacturer’s recommended inspection and start up procedure.

If it’s hydro, start at the main transformer and follow the wires to your cottage, looking for broken or loose wires, rotten or listing poles, or trees that have fallen on or are rubbing against the hydro lines.

Inspect all accessible wiring at your cottage for signs of rodent and water damage. If all is in good order, flip the main breaker on and begin checking each circuit and appliance. By doing these one at a time you can check for faulty breakers and short circuits that may have occurred during the off season.

Each circuit should be tested with something plugged into it and turned on because a fault won’t always show up otherwise.

Before flipping the switch for the

water heater, furnace and water pump complete an inspection on these items to make sure they are in order and ready to receive power.

Watch the water lines If you draw lake water or have a storage tank, inspect all the components and reconnect anything that was disassembled in the fall to guard against ice damage. If you are on a well, there won’t be much you can inspect until the well line comes out of the ground. Once all connections have been made, close the main shutoff valve located directly after the pump and pressure tank assembly and turn the pump on.

This will let you know if you have any leaks up to this point and confirm that the pressure switch is functioning properly. It should turn the pump off around the 30 to 40 psi mark. If everything checks out up to the main shut off valve, shut off all the valves and faucets for all of the appliances and fixtures. Open the main valve slowly, allowing the pressure to build in the main and branch lines until the pump shuts off again.

Next, inspect all accessible main and branch lines for signs of leaks. If there are none, open the inlet valve for

the hot water tank and begin filling it.

Once the tank is full and leak free, the last step is to open the shut off valves and faucets at each fixture and appliance, beginning closest to the pressure tank and working towards the end of the line.

This will allow you to purge the air in the lines and check each valve and faucet for leaks and/or seizure. If leaks are found during this process, isolate them and repaired before proceeding. Now run a good amount of water through all your drain lines to flush out the plumbing antifreeze, fill up your P traps and check for leaks.

If you find any issues at all, call a licensed plumber.

Fuel system safety Wood is fairly straightforward.

Check the chimney for corrosion and other damage, make sure the flue damper and other safety systems are in good working order, clean the chimney if it wasn’t done at close up, inspect the wood stove/ furnace functions including gaskets, dampers, and fire bricks.

For furnace oil, first inspect the storage tank for damage, leaks and corrosion. Turn on the valve at the tank and inspect the lines and filters

leading to the heating units ( furnace and/or water heater) for leaks, damage and corrosion.

For propane systems, again, start at the storage tank and thoroughly inspect the tank itself, the valves and lines for damage of any kind. Turn on the main valve and pressurize the lines leading to the appliances themselves.

Stop if you smell propane, close all safety valves and call a licensed repair professional. If there are no leaks or damage, turn on the appliance valves and test fire them one at a time, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

All sources of ignition should be disabled while checking these systems and anything out of the ordinary should be inspected and repaired by a licensed WETT and/or TSSA certified professional.

A well constructed opening plan and well maintained systems can help make your cottage the stress-free getaway it’s meant to be. If you’re in doubt about any aspect of your cottage, call a professional.

Submitted by Mat Krotki Polcan Design Group

May 2017

13

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May 2017

14

May 2017

15

lifestyle

Health Matters Itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing - it’s that time of year again

Roughly one quarter of all Canadians suffer each year with allergic rhinitis (AR), an inflammatory disease of the nasal mucous membranes caused by an overreaction of the immune system to a substance you’ve inhaled.

When this happens, your

immune system releases a substance called IgE, along with inflammatory mediators such as histamine into the bloodstream and nasal cavity causing the typical ‘allergy’ symptoms so many are familiar with.

Seasonal allergies are triggered by outdoor al-

lergens from pollens (ragweed, hay, etc.) and mold.

It’s also possible to have perennial AR, which often lasts year round and commonly triggered by dust mites, pet dander, smoke, smog/pollution and/or interior mold.

AR is associated with fatigue, impaired work and day-time productivity, poor sleep and decreased quality of life with more than 60 per cent of sufferers reporting that allergies significantly impact their daily lives. Common symptoms include: stuffy/ runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, red, itchy, watery eyes, swollen eyelids, itchy mouth, throat, ears, and/or face, sore throat, chronic dry cough, headaches, sinus pressure, change to hearing/smell/ taste, fatigue and dark circles under the eyes.

Allergies are typically tested using a scratch/ skin test or blood test for allergen specific IgE antibodies (RAST). Treatment commonly involves avoidance of allergens and use

of pharmaceuticals such as antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, inhalers and/or decongestants.

These therapies aren’t the best answer for everyone. If you are an allergy sufferer, here are some other options to consider for relief.

Vitamin C and D3: Ascorbic acid has been shown to reduce histamine levels and is a potent antioxidant. Studies suggest it may modulate the development of bronchial asthma though it’s inhibition of oxidative damage to the respiratory tract. Multiple studies also show benefit of Vitamin D supplementation in both adult and pediatric bronchial asthma.

Quercetin: Polyphenol rich quercetin, found naturally in onions, broccoli, certain fruits, herbs, tea, and wine is known for it’s antioxidant activity and anti-allergic histamine suppressing properties. Quercetin has been shown to be effective for treatment and prevention of both bronchial

asthma and AR. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that SLIT, the process of administering a minute dose of allergen under the tongue to enhance tolerance is a “relatively safe and effective for the treatment of rhinitis and asthma caused by allergies to dust mites, grass, ragweed, cat dander, and tree pollens.” Emerging evidence shows positive results in treating eczema and for preventing the progression from rhinitis to asthma in children, too.

SLIT is considered an alternative to allergy shots for many and can be administered by your allergist or naturopathic doctor.

Lifestyle modification: Avoiding/minimizing contact with allergens is a crucial part to minimizing AR symptoms. Consider keeping pets out of bedrooms, using an air conditioner instead of open windows (depending on source of allergen), using a

A nnua l k ids cha rit y f ishing Life on the Farm tournament comes to Smiths Falls

HEPA air filter in the bedroom while sleeping and eliminating carpets and drapery from your home as these hang on to dander and dust.

Dietary modification + GI health: Approximately 80 per cent of our immune system is found in the gastrointestinal tract. Our gut is a primary site of interaction with our external environment — breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, balancing bacteria, preventing pathogens and undigested food particles from entering the bloodstream. One of the key ways to reduce seasonal allergies is to support immune system regulation by addressing any issues with your gut.

Consider speaking with your naturopathic doctor or primary care practitioner on how to identify and eliminate food sensitivities and support gut health.

Dr. Katie Weststrate, MScCH, RYT, ND

www.ahimsanaturopathic.com

By Millers Bay Farm

The farmers' market

Photo credit: Submitted.

Smiths Falls - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca The annual Peter Larmand Outdoors Charity Fishing Tournament officially has a new home in Smiths Falls.

“We are excited to announce that we have been welcomed with open arms and the 11th Annual Peter Larmand Outdoors Charity Fishing Tournament has a new home,” said Peter Larmand, event organizer. “Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls will be the location for the event this coming May 13.”

Previously the event has been held in Rideau Ferry.

Last year the event had 85 young anglers ranging from ages 2 to 18, with 1,557 fish caught, all of which were released to

be caught another day.

This year with the new location Larmand hopes to attract more of the local young anglers. The purpose of the event is to get kids involved in the sport. It helps young anglers who are just starting out to those who are very experienced to learn proper fish handling and release methods and teaches them fishing techniques that can help them when kids are out on their own fishing.

The fishing runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m, with a break for lunch. Lunch is provided to all participants.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. The cost is $10 per child, or $25 for a family of three. Participants will receive a prize regardless if they catch a fish. Anglers are divided

into age groups: ages 5 and under, ages 6 to 8, ages 9 to 12 and ages 13 and up.

The top three in each age group will walk away with a prize pack and a medal. The angler with the most fish caught will also receive a trophy for their efforts.

Money raised will go to Jump Start and be used locally.

This event wouldn’t be possible without the support from great local companies such as Hunt & Dopson Insurance, Andress’ Independent Grocers, A& B Ford, The Rideau Winery, George’s Marine and Sports, Tammy’s Nails just to name a few.

For more information visit peterlarmand.com or the event’s Facebook page.

Picture this. It’s 5 a.m. on a summer Saturday morning. The sun is already up.

Your alarm blares. You are roused from your sleep.

What’s your first thought?

Perhaps something like, “I’m going to strangle whoever forgot to turn off the alarm for the weekend!”

In our household, and hundreds of other farm families, the reaction is a little different. Don’t get me wrong, the initial “It can’t be that time already!” is still there, but once we’ve had a few minutes to get oriented and realize what day it is, we get energized.

So now you’re thinking, “This has got to be something really special for her to be going on about how ‘energized’ she is at that hour of a Saturday morning.”

And you are right. It is something really special — it’s market day!

What’s so special about attending a farmers’ market? That’s a hard one to narrow down. Is it the idea of carrying on the tradition – beginning more than two centuries ago, just down the road in Kingston, Ont.? Is it the opportunity to connect with and share food talk with like-minded shoppers and vendors who we regularly see there? Is it having a front row seat to the gleeful looks and exclamations of the patrons as they follow their noses, searching for the source of the unmistakeable scent of freshly picked strawberries wafting among the stalls?

Yes, yes, and yes.

For some producers, the farmers’ market is the only place they offer their goods for sale. For others, it’s one of many. It’s not unusual for farms to attend multiple markets – often on the same days of the week. Talk about trying to be in three places at once!

Farmers’ markets can vary greatly in size. Some host only a few vendors, operating just one morning or evening per week. Others boast dozens of stalls and are open multiple days every week.

Each farmers’ market has its own unique set of priorities and standards. What one disallows, another may encourage (pets being an example). Some are made up solely of farmers/producers while others include artists, crafters, hobbyists, musicians, and more.

The ‘local’ component is also a variable between markets. Some have a strict policy, allowing only products from within a certain number of kilometers. Others, well let’s just say that those pineapples and lemons on the stands were not grown in our province – or our country for that matter.

Even at the farmers’ market, buyers beware.

Regardless of where you call home, there’s a good chance that there is a farmers’ market within a short drive or walk of your front door. As you read this, vendors are getting geared up for opening weekend, which

is usually sometime in May for the seasonal markets.

Almonte, Athens, Carleton Place, and Perth are just a few in our immediate area that will be opening soon.

A little bit later on, look forward to your farmers’ markets in Elizabethtown-Kitley, and Smiths Falls (at Davidson’s Courtyard) getting underway as well.

Whichever side of the table you find yourself on, it’s likely that we can all agree that there is just something about farmers’ markets that you can’t find anywhere else. It could be the wide variety and the unequalled quality of the products, the celebrations and special functions, or the community feel and the warm camaraderie. More likely though, it is the inimitable blend of all of the above that makes the farmers’ market someplace we definitely want to be on a busy Saturday morning. Hopefully you feel the same way.

We’ll look forward to seeing you there.

May 2017

16

special feature

CANCER CHANGES EVERYTHING. SO CAN YOU. Join the movement in your community.

Relay For Life in Smiths Falls June 10, 2017, 5pm to 11pm Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute Canada’s 150th - A Red and White Relay Register today relayforlife.ca/smithsfalls Register today!relayforlife.ca

Cancer Awareness Cancer society says increased taxes on tobacco will save lives

The Canadian Cancer Society publically applauded the Ontario government on April 27 for increasing tobacco taxes in the provincial budget.

Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable

death and disease in Canada, killing some 13,000 Ontarians every year. Smoking causes 30 per cent of all cancers and 85 per cent of lung cancers.

As per the budget, a tobacco tax will be

taxes are a proven comes and prevent move from the exand effective mea- cancer, in particular: isting Pap test to the sure to reduce smokOHIP+: Children human papillomaing, especially among and youth phar- virus (HPV) test for young people who are macare – provid- women aged 30 to 69; more price sensitive,” ing free prescription Lung cancer screensays Rowena Pinto, medications to all ing: launch high-risk vice-president public children and youth screening at three issues and strategic under age 25 will pilot sites (the Ottainitiatives, Canadian greatly improve ac- wa Hospital, Health Cancer Society, On- cess for children with Sciences North and tario. “This measure cancer. This is a sig- Lakeridge Health). will reduce cancer nificant step in adMonetary investincidence and save dressing the issue of ment – Investing an lives. access to take-home additional $32 milThe substantial in- cancer medications. lion to continue to vestment in cancer Modernizing can- build capacity to procare and screening cer screening – vide stem cell transprograms is news Colorectal cancer plant treatment for that the cancer soci- screening will move complex blood canety also applauded, from the existing fe- cers resulting in fewas these measures cal occult blood test er patients needing will help support (FOBT) to the fecal to travel abroad for phased in to a final cancer patients and i m m u n o c h e m i c a l treatment $10 more per carton their families, lead to test (FIT); Cervical From The Canadian by 2019. The first better treatment out- cancer screening will Cancer Society phase went into effect immediately with an increase of $2. In 2018 and 2019, a $4 increase will be made.

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May 2017

17

lifestyle

NOW OPEN!

Festival of Small Halls to welcome new venues

SERVING PERTH & AREA

Walk Ins Welcome

Breabach delights the sold out crowd at Stonefields Heritage Farm in Beckwith last fall. The venue is again being showcased as one of 30 halls in eastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley to host a Festival of Small Halls event for 2017.

Photo by David Irvine.

SAM LIMA DENTURE CLINIC 3 Beckwith Street East

PERTH ONTARIO samlima10@aol.com

613-267-5462

The festival that melds big names in music with rural communities in Eastern Ontario is enlivening new spaces this fall.

Last year, the Ontario Festival of Small Halls got bigger and better, expanding its scope and bringing internationally-renowned musicians to two dozen rural gathering spaces. For 2017, the Festival is growing once again, encompassing more than 30 community halls from even further afield. The celebration of exceptional live music is taking place from Sep.14 to Oct. 1, 2017 in intimate settings to showcase local hubs, attract visitors to new regions and build community.

The new host halls this year stretch from Dacre to Merrickville to Alexandria. While some venues are familiar hosts from last year, such as Chaffey’s Lock, others are new to the festival line up, like Dunvegan and Balderson.

Kelly Symes, general manager of the Ontario Festival of Small Halls, said the festival allows music fans to experience a memorable evening of song and dance in cherished places that have a long history of gathering people together. “We’re delighted to continue showcasing these intimate gathering places, and welcome big name musical acts to small town Ontario,” she said, noting that 30 new halls applied from across Eastern Ontario.

Symes said the new venues were selected based on their history, charm and the eagerness of their volunteer teams. “These spaces

play a vital role in bringing people together,” she said. “Some of the new venues include heritage spaces, a former schoolhouse and even a radio concert hall.”

Organizers of the Ontario Festival of Small Halls will be announcing dates and the bigname acts later this spring that will be taking center stage across Eastern Ontario and the Upper Ottawa Valley at the following chosen venues: · La Fraternité, Alexandria · Almonte Old Town Hall · Joshua Bates Centre, Athens · Balderson United Church · Stonefields, Beckwith · Althorpe Bolingbroke Community Hall · Burritts Rapids Community Hall · Chaffey’s Lock Community Hall · DACA Community Centre · Dacre Delta Old Town Hall · Dunvegan Recreation Hall · The Red Brick School,

Elgin · Lyndhurst Legion · Maberly Hall · St. James Roman Catholic Church, Maxville · McDonald’s Corners Agricultural Hall · Merrickville United Church · Union Hall, Mississippi Mills · Morton Community Hall · Portland Community Hall · Valley Heritage Radio, Renfrew · Batstone’s Northern Ramble · Seeley’s Bay Community Hall · Spencerville Mill · Tatlock Community Hall · St. Andrew’s United Church, Pakenham · St. Andrew’s United Church, Toledo · Westmeath Recreation Centre · Winchester Old Town Hall For more information, including a bio on each hall, please visit thefestivalofsmallhalls. com or follow on social media.

Submitted by The Festival of Small Halls

The April Verch Band got toes tapping at the Morton Community Hall last fall, as part of the Ontario Festival of Small Halls. The venue is again being showcased as one of 30 halls in eastern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley to host a Festival of Small Halls event for 2017. Photo credit: Rosanne Lake.

May 2017

18

lifestyle

Let's Eat

Food & Drink

By Brian Turner

Fast food done right at Law & Orders

The new Law & Orders has indoor and outdoor space. Photo credit: Submitted.

There’s nothing better in this country than the onset of our glorious summers.

Warm weather and plenty of sunshine beckon us to cottages, lakes, rivers, and campgrounds and finding a great place to recharge ourselves with some delicious hand-crafted food makes our journeys that much more enjoyable. On that very popular commuting and vacation route, Highway 7, you can find the gem known as Law & Orders at the Mississippi River in Innisville between Carleton Place and Perth.

The place serves everything you’d expect from a roadside eatery but all with an unexpected twist of quality and care. It has hand-cut fries, handformed, fresh-never-frozen

beef burgers, great sandwiches, and of course poutine to die for.

When the owner Jamie Law was thinking of a menu line to keep things busy during the cooler months, pizza came to the top of the list. His stone ovens are just as busy now that the warmer weather has arrived as they were in the cold of winter. Law smiles when he says that the only complaint he’s ever gotten about his food was too much cheese on his pizzas.

The special combination of an almost endless choice of fresh toppings on everything served makes much of the menu a one-of-a-kind experience. The burgers are cooked the only way that burger aficionados desire, on a flat-top so that they

stay juicy and don’t dry out.

The newly rebuilt building has a large patio-deck out to the side that is accessed via a large glass-paneled roll-up garage door.

Law & Orders is fully wheelchair accessible and is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday. You can reach them at 613-2535558 (found on thousands of smart-phone speed-dial lists) and you can check them out online at lawandorders.ca.

The prices are comparable to most fast-food outlets, but the similarities end there. If you want to take a trip back in time to when fast food was fresh and mouth-watering, head out to Law & Orders.

Beer Wine and Spirits

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.

Craft breweries are popping up all over Ontario and the craft beer market is no longer the exclusive domain of the large metropolitan areas like Ottawa and Toronto.

Smaller towns like Carleton Place, Smith Falls, Perth and now Almonte have their own local breweries. These are locally owned and operated by families and friends that are passionate about mak-

ing good quality beer.

The beer is not shipped from massive breweries that pump out name brands with novelties like cans that change colour when it’s cold or free t-shirts in cases to attract customers. Instead, we get artisan style beers that are produced using local ingredients and sold within the community. Wellmade India pale ales that are hoppy and crisp, stouts

and porters that are dark and rich with flavours like coffee and molasses, pilsners and lagers that are flavourful plus many more styles of beers.

Almonte has a tradition of attracting unique businesses like Equators coffee and Hummingbird chocolate, to name a few. Crooked Mile Brewing Company has continued that vein of inspiration by opening a brewery on Ottawa Street

in Almonte.

The brewery offers a stable of quality produced beers like Standing Stone English IPA, Crows Castle Best Bitter and Highland Hillwalker Scottish Export plus a variety of seasonal brews. I spoke to the folks operating the brewery about their process and was pleasantly surprised to hear that they are brewing beers using water from the Almonte water supply,

which is a plus as some breweries have to use reverse osmosis to clean their water and then add minerals to bring the water back to an acceptable level to brew.

Crooked Mile’s future plan is to continue seeking out locally produced ingredients like Cascade hops and to start a canning line so that customers have a choice of container when buying their

beer. Crooked Mile must be doing something right as their beers are popping up in restaurants like Alice’s Village Café in Carp and O’Reilly’s Ale House in Perth.

I purchased two seasonal squealers from Crooked Mile called Peculiar Porter made with locally sourced molasses and the Lanark Maple Brown ale brewed with maple syrup produced in Clayton, Ontario.

Lanark Maple Brown Ale – Crooked Mile Brewing Company

Peculiar Porter – Crooked Mile Brewing Company

The Lanark Maple Brown ale actually had the colour of a darker amber maple syrup. The flavour was rich and nutty with mild bubbles and a little bit of maple at the end. The interesting part of this ale was that the maple flavour became more pronounced as the temperature of the beer warmed up.

A dark brown richly flavoured porter made with locally sourced molasses. It has flavours of coffee and a nutty finish. It’s not as heavy as it looks, which means you can have more without feeling like you just ate a huge meal.

(Available at Crooked Mile Brewing Company, 453 Ottawa St. Almonte)

(Available at Crooked Mile Brewing Company, 453 Ottawa St. Almonte)

May 2017

19

culture Splashpad 3-pitch tournament Chalk Garden still at Station Theatre takes to the field on June 3 Carleton Place - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca The Splashpad Slugfest 3-pitch tournament comes to the Beckwith Recreation Complex (1319 9th Line, Carleton Place, ON K7C 3P2) on June 3.

Th is fun 10 team mixed tournament will be a great day out for the whole family and a portion of the proceeds will go to fund the new splashpad and playground at Beckwith Park.

There will be a home run derby sponsored by Castle Masonry and Construction at 11 a.m. and the junior home run derby at 1 p.m. for kids 12 and under.

Test your merit and vie for the ultimate champion title only $5 for five outs.

The beer and spirits gardens hosted by Top Shelf Distillers and Cartwright Springs Brewery is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with a selection of local cocktails, craft beers and moonshine samplers.

The Huntley Hustlers Broomball squad will be showing off their chef skills manning the BBQ, there will be a huge outdoor community garage sale and market. Admission is free.

There are still market spots available for only $30, or you can donate unwanted items to be sold at the splashpad table where 100 per cent of the proceeds go to the fund.

Come out for a day of fun in the sun and cheer on your favourite team.

Grace Lee, 14, plays Laurel, a 16-year-old who lives with her grandmother in a Manor House bordering a Village Green in Sussex, England. Grace has her grandmother wrapped around her little finger and gets whatever she wants by telling stories, stealing alcohol, screaming and lighting fires. Screaming, says Lee, was the hardest part. “It wasn’t until I scared a few of the crew members that I became more comfortable with it,” she says.

See Lee in The Chalk Garden in its continuing run at The Station Theatre May 4, 5, 6 and 7.

Tickets are available at Special Greetings, 8 Russell Street E., Smiths Falls (cash only), smithsfallstheatre.com (PayPal/Visa/ MasterCard), by phone at 613283-0300 (Visa/MasterCard), or at the door, if available, a halfhour before performance (cash only). Find the theatre at 53 Victoria Avenue, Smiths Falls.

Trainfest After Dark the newest Canada 150 event for Smiths Falls Smiths Falls - Chris Must editorial@pdgmedia.ca A railway-themed musical evening on Aug. 26 at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre theatre is the newest event in the growing line-up of Canada 150 events in Smiths Falls.

Trainfest After Dark, to be held following a day of hands-on activities for visitors to the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, will get under way at the theatre in the former Rideau Canal Museum at 7 p.m.

Organizers are planning a mix of storytellers and musicians to highlight the history of the railway and its importance to Smiths Falls.

Confirmed performers include Moncton, New Brunswick-based songwriter Jared Lutes, and Lanark County musical duo the Jimmy TriTone Band.

Jared Lutes is a 17-year veteran of both stage and studio, who has produced five albums. His songs have been featured on network TV and in feature film, and he has won both regional and international awards.

The Jimmy Tri-Tone Band is a folk-rock duo made up of James Walters on guitar and Randelle Ashley on bass and keyboards, both originally from Almonte, and now based in White Lake. The duo recently completed a second tour to the east coast and produced a full-length album, This Long, Lonesome Highway.

Trainfest After Dark is part of the ongoing Smiths Falls On the Roll Canada 150 music series, co-funded by the Town of Smiths Falls and a federal government grant.

The On the Roll series began in March with a special performance by Celtic band Seventh Town at Heritage House Museum. In a presentation to Smiths Falls town councillors on April 10, town Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator Ingrid

The Jimmy Tri-Tone Band, featuring Randelle Ashley and James Walters, will be part of the line-up for Trainfest After Dark Aug. 26.

Photo credit: Chris Must.

Bron said the series “brings live performances to a number of community events, including the Healthy Living Festival and Paddlefest, happening over the same weekend this year in June, and later this summer the Rolling Thunder Car Show, Race the Runway, and Trainfest.”

Several summer events will feature performances by the Canada 150 Youth Choir, under the direction of Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute music and arts teacher Kristine MacLaren.

In June, the Algonquins of Ontario will host a pow wow in partnership with SFDCI, Parks Canada, and the town of Smiths Falls.

Other confirmed events in the On the Roll series include: · May 20, Smiths Falls Legion, performance by Eddy & the Stingrays; · June 17, Healthy Living Festival in downtown Smiths Falls featuring Aboriginal Experiences; · June 17 (6-9 p.m.), Music in the Park at Lower Reach Park featuring The British Invasion;

· June 18, Rideau Paddlefest at Lower Reach Park, with music by the Canada 150 Youth Choir, Bytown Bluegrass, and Peter Dawson; · June 24, Highland on the Rideau featuring the Gordon Pipe Band; · June 25, Irish Ceilidh and Picnic at Heritage House Museum, featuring Seventh Town; · June 27, South Winds Voyageur Canoe Brigade and Cultural Celebration at Centennial Park, featuring music by the History Buffs; · June 28, Golf Tournament and Irish Homestead Dinner and Dance at Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club, featuring music by Freddy Dixon, and A Beatles Tribute; · June 30, Music at Station Theatre, featuring the Steel City Rovers; · July 1, Canada Day celebrations at Lower Reach Park, featuring Ottawa Valley Opry, Maria Hawkins, Andy Mason, and the Canada 150 Youth Choir; · July 14-16, Rideau Rendezvous Motorcycle Rally, featuring music by Poetic Justice.

May 2017

20

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WORD ON THE STREET

By Alexandra Mazur and Matthew Behrens

There's much talk of transportation infrastructure in the spring air. Both the federal government and local municipalities appear interested in expanding Via Rail service to include a link from Peterborough through Perth to Smiths Falls.

The line would hook up with the Ottawa -Toronto corridor and provide more frequent rail service to the national capital.

While frequent Via Rail service would certainly seem a welcome commuting alternative during treacherous winter weather and for those who increasingly feel Highway 417 resembles a rush hour parking lot, what would it take for local residents to regularly park their cars and leave the driving to someone else? Hometown News reporters Alexandra Mazur and Matthew Behrens took to the streets to talk train schedules, fares, discounts, and incentives.

“Why did they forget about Carleton Place? Saving on time and bucking the traffic, it would be a relaxing way to get into Ottawa, especially with bad weather. Let somebody else do the driving. I think they could come up with a reasonable rate for frequent users too.” - Audrey Kealey

“I’m a big fan of rail travel and I’ve always enjoyed it, so I am excited by the idea of commuter rail, but the fact that they don’t drop you in downtown Ottawa has always been their biggest challenge. I can’t see myself going to Peterborough, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn't build it, because it's important and efficient. Also, does VIA put on 20 trains a day and build the traffic, or do you wait until people show up at specific times and build your schedule around that?” Mike Fletcher.