Lanark, North Leeds & Grenville - Hometown News November 2024
A.C. Towing
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Gerry Lowe Memorial Sens Rink in Smiths Falls has become a popular spot for recreation—yet recently, nighttime play has been hindered by intermittent lighting issues, leading to an unusual sight: vehicles circling the rink with headlights on to illuminate the surface.
After a recent social media post showed this workaround, residents questioned why the outdoor lights have been so unreliable.
Stephanie Clark, Smiths Falls’ Director of Parks and Recreation, confirmed
that the town is working on a solution.
“I’m happy to report that the lights are back on, at least temporarily,” Clark said. “A few weeks ago, a user group requested the rink for practice, but we advised them the lighting was awaiting repair. They chose to proceed anyway, and someone posted about it online.” Clark noted that while the town received a few follow-up inquiries from residents, there have been no formal complaints directly from rink users.
Although the Gerry Lowe rink lacks official hours, Clark explained that the lights are on a seasonal tim-
er, set to activate near sundown and turn off around the memorial centre’s closing time. “We encourage safe use of the facility at any time, though users do so at their own risk,” she added.
Clark emphasized that the lighting is crucial for safe use during evenings. However, pinpointing the issue has proven challenging. “We’re experiencing an ongoing malfunction, but are working with a contractor to resolve it,” she said, adding that parts sourcing, contractor availability, and troubleshooting have slowed progress, but she’s hopeful for a timely fix.
Continues on page 2
Gerry Lowe Memorial Sens Rink
Photo credit: Laurie Weir
Honouring Remembrance Day across Lanark County: solemn gatherings, the laying of wreaths, and moments of reflection brought communities together in Smiths Falls, Perth, Carleton Place, Westport and Pakenham. A united tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our freedom. TOP ROW: Smiths Falls by Kathy Botham. Perth by Laurie Weir. Carleton Place by Carleton Place Town Hall Facebook page [facebook.com/ CarletonPlaceTownHall]. Westport by Royal Canadian Legion Upper Rideau Branch 542. MIDDLE ROW: Westport by Royal Canadian Legion Upper Rideau Branch 542. Carleton Place by Linda Seccaspina. Smiths Falls by Kathy Botham. Westport by Royal Canadian Legion Upper Rideau Branch 542. Pakenham by Sam Park Photography [samparkphotography.com] BOTTOM ROW: Pakenham by Sam Park Photography [samparkphotography. com]. Smiths Falls by Kathy Botham. Carleton Place by Linda Seccaspina. Pakenham by Sam Park Photography [samparkphotography.com].
Page Two
Smiths Falls works to ‘light the lamps’ at Gerry Lowe Memorial Sens Rink
fundraising from glmg helps keep kids in sports and maintain facilities
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Continued from page 1. Honouring a Legacy: The Gerry Lowe Memorial Group
The rink’s namesake, Gerry Lowe, was known for his dedication to ensuring children had opportunities in sports. Following his passing on June 25, 2010, the Gerry Lowe Memorial Group (GLMG) was established to continue his legacy.
For more than a decade, the group has raised thousands of dollars to fund youth sports, hosting events like an annual memorial golf tournament at Smiths Falls Golf and Country Club that alone raises about $30,000 each year. The Ottawa Senators’ outdoor rink opened here in January 2016 for $500,000, a testament to the community’s commitment to recreation and Lowe’s legacy.
Rob Garvin, a group member, said the group has expanded its charitable outreach to communities beyond Smiths Falls.
Recent projects include a $2,000 donation to Montague Township for outdoor volleyball nets and posts, and $50,000 to Rideau Lakes for a pump track at the Ron E. Holman Municipal Complex. Garvin noted that much of this funding was raised through initiatives like the Smile Cookie campaign at local Tim Hortons locations, which contributed $30,000 to that large donation.
Allison Vereyken, the clerk/administrator/treasurer at Montague Township, said the funds have been used to purchase the nets and poles for their outdoor courts at the Montague 22 Acre Park.
“Low cost or free recreational space is a priority for the Township of Montague,” she said. “As the financial burden for essential services over the last several years has been tough for a lot of families/ people, the township wanted to create a space (from parkland fees and donations, not taxes), that people could use for no cost. The volleyball courts were the start of the project, which were operational late summer/early fall this year. The park space is continuing with a new sliding hill that has most recently been completed and will be open this winter for all to use, along with the start of walking trails at the space.”
Vereyken said the township is “very excited to start on this project and have local support like the GLC donation!”
The pump track in Rideau Lakes recently opened for use.
Garvin noted they help cover costs for local kids in various activities, and this year they’re supporting 16 to 18 young hockey players, “but we’ve also funded gymnastics, figure skating, volleyball, and even a camp for Lanark County’s young female first responders,” he said.
A Network of Support Garvin emphasized that the Gerry Lowe Memorial Group often assists informally through word of mouth. “There’s no application process,” he explained. “People know that if a kid needs a little help, they can reach out to us.” In addition to private donations, many contributions come from families who previously benefited from the group’s support.
Over the years, the group has collaborated closely with local businesses, especially Canadian Tire, where former and current owners have supported its mission. Shaun Gallagher, the current owner, has continued the tradition. “Shaun’s been fantastic,” Garvin said. “He’s supportive; if we send a kid in need of gear, he takes care of them, and he sends us a bill. He’s been fair with pricing.”
Moving Forward
As Smiths Falls works to restore full lighting to the rink, the Gerry Lowe Memorial Group continues to invest in the town’s youth, keeping Lowe’s spirit alive through every skate, practice, and game under the stars. Donations to the Gerry Lowe Memorial Group are always welcomed.
Photo credit: Laurie Weir
Photo credit: Laurie Weir
Cartoon by Patrick Labelle.
Elgin cat rescue under investigation by animal welfare and OPP
Regional - LAURIE WEIR
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
A cat rescue in Rideau Lakes Township is under investigation by the provincial animal welfare agency and the Ontario Provincial Police.
Bill Dickson, media relations coordinator with the Ontario Provincial Police East Region, confirmed that police opened an investigation into allegations of abuse and neglect of cats in the care of Eastern Ontario Cats on Oct. 18.
“This remains an ongoing investigation,” Dickson said in early November. “There have been no charges laid.”
Eastern Ontario Cats is a registered charity owned and operated by Johanna Cake. Cake was contacted by this newspaper via email, and she indicated she would be available for a phone call a few days later; however, she did not call. In a direct message to this newspaper on social media, she said she wanted to “get our side of the story out” about the situation, which CTV News first reported in October, alleging forged veterinary documents, sick cats being adopted out, and funds that had reportedly gone missing.
Brent Ross, a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Attorney General, which oversees the Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS), said there is an active investigation but declined to comment further.
“It should be noted that in the case of stray animals, municipalities are responsible for local animal control, and any call related to these types of animals would be referred to that authority,” Ross stated in an email. “We recommend contacting the local animal control office for advice on handling stray animals, as each municipality has its own bylaws, policies and procedures.”
Ross added that AWS inspectors work with local police, veterinarians, livestock organizations, and
humane societies to protect animals from harm.
“Abuse and neglect of any animal is not tolerated in Ontario. If you think an animal is in distress or is being abused, call 1-833-9-ANIMAL (264625),” he wrote.
“When an AWS inspector responds to a call, they take steps to educate animal owners on care standards.
The PAWS Act sets mandatory standards of care to ensure animals are treated humanely and receive appropriate care.”
When contacted, Shellee Fournier, chief administrative officer of the Township of Rideau Lakes, said she was unaware of the situation in Elgin but
noted that the humane society was aware and would follow up. Fournier said she first learned of the situation through an Ottawa news station.
“Historically, it is my understanding that council has only addressed dogs via licensing,” she said.
Jackie Gauthier is a co-founder with Sandi Lawson of Speak up for Paws. This is a non-profit organization focused on animal health and safety advocacy, has rescued cats from the Elgin house. Gauthier said some of the cats removed from the property have tested positive for panleukopenia—a highly contagious disease
known as feline distemper that affects kittens and unvaccinated cats— and for internal parasites such as coccidia.
“The presence of panleukopenia in a crowded environment like this poses a serious risk to other cats,” she explained. “The virus is highly transmissible and can survive on surfaces for months, so humans and volunteers handling infected cats could unintentionally carry it to other locations, where unvaccinated cats could then be exposed.”
According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, thorough disinfection
and hygiene practices, such as handwashing and changing clothes, are essential to reducing the spread of the virus.
Gauthier, who has previously rescued cats from hoarding situations in the Ottawa area while wearing a hazmat suit, said she has a network of local rescues and volunteers who work alongside her. She noted that volunteers with the Elgin rescue were “at their wits’ end” and unsure how to proceed. One volunteer made a complaint to PAWS in September.
“I was getting whispers from people looking for advice,” Gauthier said. “I try not to get involved unless I see some sort of neglect.”
Gauthier said she hopes the
rescued cats and kittens will receive the care they need but acknowledged that a significant amount of work remains.
In January, Eastern Ontario Cats helped rescue 67 neglected cats from a hoarding situation in Bourget, Ont., and began fundraising for their veterinary care. At the time, Cake’s rescue was listed as a no-kill, 100 percent foster-based shelter with 170 cats in foster care. Within its first year, the organization had adopted out 500 cats and kittens and supported the trap-neuter-return process for another 150 cats. The website has since been removed, but her Facebook page remains active.
Build a Mountain of Food kicks off busy 6-week campaign
serving 11 community food banks in lanark, leeds and grenville
Regional - LAURIE WEIR
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The 18th annual RCL Automotive Build a Mountain of Food campaign kicked off Nov. 9 in Almonte and Carleton Place with proceeds going to the Hunger Stop.
“The kickoff went well,” Jim Wright told this newspaper. “It was a beautiful day and a good start to the campaign.”
Wright said he didn’t have the numbers, but said his food bank coordinator has indicated that usage is up.
“(The Hunger Stop) has been busier ... demand is up from last year, and almost double from a few years ago,” Wright said.
After Saturday’s initial stop, Wright said, “as usual, the grocery stores stepped up with just a little over the 9,707 lbs. coming from them and cash collected was $5,358.60. Both of these numbers were up a little from last year, so that’s a good start.”
This campaign serves food banks in 11 communities. Over the past 17 years, Build a Mountain of Food has collected over 2-million pounds of food and $2
million for hungry families in Lanark and Leeds and Grenville counties.
Local food banks play a crucial role in addressing hunger in the region, assisting a diverse population that includes seniors, single parents, the working poor, and many children.
Supporting local communities
The Build a Mountain of Food campaign will be in Perth at grocery stores from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Lanark (only until 2 p.m.) on Saturday, Nov. 16.
It will continue through the next month with stops at Smiths Falls, Westport, Elgin, Portland, Merrickville, Athens, and Delta.
A series of food blitz days will be organized at various grocery stores to encourage donations of food and cash. All contributions made will remain within the respective communities.
Join the effort
The campaign encourages community members to engage through Facebook Live, allowing participants to view and share the event from anywhere at any time. To stay up-
dated, use the hashtag #BAM for the latest developments.
Schedule Saturday, Nov. 16
Perth: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Metro Perth, Barnabe’s Your Independent Grocer, Foodsmiths, and Giant Tiger. In support of the Perth Good Food Bank.
Lanark: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Lanark Civitan Hall. In support of the Lanark Highlands Food Pantry.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Smiths Falls: 9 a.m. to
4 p.m. at Jonsson’s YIG, Food Basics, The Garden Market, and Giant Tiger. In support of the Smiths Falls Community Food Bank.
Saturday, Nov. 30
Elgin: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Gordanier Freshmart. In support of the Elgin Food Bank.
Westport: 12 to 4 p.m., at Kudrinko’s. In support of the Westport Food Bank.
Saturday, Dec. 7
Merrickville: 1 to 4 p.m., at the Merrickville Food Market. In support of the Merrickville Lions Club Christmas Food Hamper Campaign.
Saturday, Dec. 14
Athens: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Athens Fresh Market. In support of the Athens Food Bank.
Delta: 1 to 4 p.m. at the Delta Country Market. In support of the Delta Food Bank
Portland: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Portland LCBO and RBC. In support of the Portland Food Bank.
Chris Craig owner and title sponsor from RCL Automotive, Spencer Jonsson (YIG store owner), and Bruce Laundrie are pictured during the campaign kick-off in Almonte for Build a Mountain of Food campaign, with a few of the many pounds donated by Jonsson’s Your Independent Grocer in Almonte on Nov. 9, 2024. Photo credit: Submitted [Jim Wright]
community
All Purpose Towing's 20th annual Toy Drive: A father’s legacy of giving back
Carleton Place - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
When Peter Porteous’s children were very young they never wanted for anything, but as a dad he wanted his kids to understand that there are a lot of kids out there who don’t have that privilege. Initially he made it a point of taking his kids to pick an angel off the local Angel Drive and help him shop for a gift. But then he thought starting a Toy Drive under his own business, All Purpose Towing, and matching every donation would be an even better lesson, and it became a tradition to take his kids to shop for the toys he matched. While it started as a way
to teach his kids values that were important to him, 20 years later it’s taken on a life of its own. Last year Porteous estimates the drive and his matching netted more than 2,500 toys.
For the past few years the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 192 had been contributing significant funds to help match donations. Porteous himself has set aside $10,000, this year to add to the pot.
Several businesses in town have approached him to become drop off locations to make it easier for town residents to donate. Heritage Optometric and Trillium Family Chiropractic are two of the alternative drop off locations.
STAND UP FOR YOUTH: Raising awareness on rural youth homelessness and human trafficking
Carleton Place - LAURIE WEIR editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Rural youth are grappling with critical issues that often go unnoticed. To shine a spotlight on these challenges, Cornerstone Landing Youth Services and Stir It Up Collective are teaming up to host Stand Up For Youth, an information night designed to raise awareness and support for young people facing homelessness and human trafficking.
Cornerstone Landing is a community based, non-profit, charitable organization that works toward the prevention of youth homelessness in rural Lanark County by raising public awareness of the issue and providing direct support for young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
The event will take place at ConnectWell Community Health, 30 Bennett St., Carleton Place, on Nov. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Elle Halladay, the manager at Cornerstone Landing, emphasized the severity of these issues in rural areas, often overlooked compared to urban centers. “Our rural community is not immune to these pressing issues,” Halladay said. “By coming together, we can build a stronger network of support and ensure our youth are safe and supported.”
Halladay added that it’s crucial for communities to work collaboratively to address the vulnerabilities that many rural youths face. “Come join us for an eye-opening event where we shed light on the issues of youth homelessness and human trafficking,” she said. “Our goal is to raise awareness and support for vulnerable youth in our community.”
Rural youth often lack
immediate access to critical services such as shelters, outreach programs, and emergency resources, making them particularly susceptible to dangers like exploitation and trafficking. Factors such as isolation, limited transportation, and fewer community-based services exacerbate these issues, putting rural youth at an increased risk.
Halladay gave a brief overview of the homelessness situation in Lanark County during a presentation on Oct. 28 to Smiths Falls council.
Imagine not having your keys in your pocket. You might feel stressed, until you find them in your other pocket.
“These youth are living in that state of panic 24/7. That’s not acceptable,” she said.
Halladay said that of the youth they service, 50 per cent are from Smiths Falls, six of whom are classified as having chronic homelessness.
“The average duration of youth homelessness in Smiths Falls is eight months,” Halladay said. “Many are experiencing over 13 months of homelessness.”
Many of these youths are dropping out of school by Grade 10 because they can no longer focus on where to live and their education, Halladay noted.
“We have served 72 youth this year with 37 of them being new referrals, and just this year we’ve had 35 carry over from last year,” she said, and they have no stable funding. They have to reapply every year for what they do manage to secure to pay their 3.5 staff members and take care of the youth.
Cornerstone Landing receives $120,000 annually from Reaching Home, Canada’s Homeless-
ness Strategy Directives.
Rent supplements, car allowances, and basic needs for youth, all come from fundraising efforts.
“The youth are our future and we must be able to give them the tools that they need to contribute to our community,” she said.
To learn more about youth homelessness and human trafficking, attend the Stand Up For Youth event. It will feature guest speakers Terrilee Kelford founder and chair of the National Alliance to End Rural and Remote Homelessness and Wendy Gee, executive director of A New Day.
Lanark County Detachment Commander Insp. Kerlous Tawdrous told Hometown News: “Human trafficking is difficult to capture through police statistics.”
The event is open to the public, and all members of the community are encouraged to attend and contribute to the ongoing conversation about youth safety and well-being. Visit Eventbrite to book your spot.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Human trafficking is a significant issue in Ontario, affecting both urban and rural areas. According to Statistics Canada, human trafficking, or trafficking in persons, is often referred to as a modern form of slavery. It encompasses the recruitment, transportation, harboring, and control of individuals for the purpose of exploitation, typically through sexual exploitation or forced labor. Victims, who are primarily women and children, often face coercive practices that compel them to provide labor or sexual services, frequently for the profit of their traffickers.
Statistics Canada reports that Ontario accounts for 65 per cent of police-reported human trafficking
Pam Knowles of Pam’s Kindness store says she’s always gravitated towards purchases that benefited charities, so when she saw what All Purpose Towing was doing it was a no brainer.
“I decided to support Pete's toy drive as well and for each children's item purchased I would match it and Pete matches so that's three gifts for one,” says Knowles.
The drive started on November 1 and ends on November 30, because Porteous also needs time to shop for the matching toys.
incidents in Canada, with rates in cities like Ottawa and Peterborough being among the highest in the country. However, rural regions, such as Lanark County, are not immune to these problems, especially when it comes to youth.
In Lanark County, Victim Services as well as Lanark County Interval House and Community Support offer support and awareness programs to combat human trafficking and provide resources for at-risk individuals, particularly youth. These services emphasize the importance of community-based initiatives to educate and protect vulnerable populations from trafficking risks. Additionally, the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline serves the region, offering a 24/7 confidential line for those needing help or reporting incidents.
The challenges facing rural communities, including isolation, lack of resources, and youth vulnerability, make it critical to raise awareness. Events like the upcoming “Stand Up For Youth” are designed to shed light on these issues and mobilize local support. This outreach is essential for building stronger support networks and helping prevent human trafficking from continuing to affect rural areas like Lanark County.
HOTLINE: If you feel someone is in danger of human trafficking, please call 1-833-900-1010 or visit: https://www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline. ca/ The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, multilingual service, operating 24/7 to connect victims and survivors with social services, law enforcement, and emergency services, as well as receive tips from the public.
“Last Friday night, I took my grandkids toy shopping to pass on the same message to them,” says Porteous adding that the shopping alone takes up a lot of time. The donations and matching toys are distributed to Interval House, the Christmas Basket and Children’s Aid Society Lanark County. At this point the toy drive is in full swing, with two more weeks to go and new this year is a raffle for a child sized Chevy Silverado, that some lucky kid can ride.
“This year my goal is to fill our [All Purpose Towing’s] huge enclosed trailer .. so if you can please drop off a toy or donation for the month of November we will match it,” says Porteous. Gift cards are also welcome.
Marketplace Directory
EMPLOYMENT
Peacefully at Perth Hospital on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024. Our dear friend Mark Burnham of Maberly was surrounded by many friends who loved him. In his 77th year, he was predeceased by his parents Dorothy and Harold, and his beloved wife Dawn. Mark was a lifetime artist and craftsman. He was well known at the Perth Car Wash for 27 years. Mark was more than 40 years sober and was dedicated to helping countless people with their sobri-
ety and supported them with his friendship. Mark proudly served as a Tay Valley Township councillor from 1998-2018. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024 at 12 until 3 p.m. at the Maberly Hall, 180 Maberly Elfin Road. If you are able, please bring a pot luck item to share. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mark’s memory are asked to consider the Perth and Smith Falls District Hospital Foundation.
Peter Porteous dedicates a space at his business where people can drop off toys for his 20th annual Toy Drive. Shown here is the miniature Silverado he’s raffling off this year. His commitment includes matching every donation thereby doubling the gifts.. Photo credit: Submitted.
Cornerstone Landing offers hope for homeless youth in Lanark County
Carleton Place - heddy sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Back when Elle Halladay, manager of Cornerstone Landing, worked on the front lines she had a 16 year old youth who had been sleeping outside for some time bumping around from one location to another. This youth had a full time job at a fast food restaurant and had couch surfed for a while, then lived in an abandoned house with no heat and no running water.
“I remember housing them into their first apartment, I remember I was so excited to get them an apartment. I went out and got them a bed and set it up, and when we were done they just sat on the bed and started to cry. They had never had their own room with their own bed. They were over the moon that they had a room with a door they could lock, somewhere that was a safe place to lay their head, a place where they didn’t have to worry about the outside world,” says Halladay. It was a moment that stayed with Halladay and a reality that case workers at Cornerstone Landing deal with every day. While the organization receives $120,000
annually from Reaching Home, Canada’s Homelessness Strategy Directives, it is not enough and the organization has to fundraise and reach out to the municipalities within its catchment area to help house youth struggling to find a safe place.
“These are youth that are fleeing violence, fleeing trauma, and have nowhere to go,” says Halladay, bursting the myth that youth are on the streets fleeing house rules they don’t like.
Cornerstone Landing has been in the area for 20 years and serves between 75 and 85 youth every year in Lanark County and Smiths Falls and the need is growing.
“We’ve served 72 youth so far this year, we’ve had 37 new referrals this year between January and October, but we tend to see an uptick in referrals in October, November and December, as the days get colder and schools are in,” says Halladay. Referrals generally come from the schools where teachers are often the first to notice a student in distress. However, there aren’t a lot of options for youth facing homelessness in our area.
“We don’t, in Lanark County, have shelters for
youth. The county does have a program for very short hotel accommodation, but it’s very temporary,” says Terrillee Kelford, board chair.
Cornerstone Landing is the only organization in Lanark County actively working with youth, and the only organization in Eastern Ontario working on the Housing First initiative.
Youth in rural communities won’t sleep out on streets where someone might recognize them because of the stigma associated with homelessness. The result is these young adults resort to couch surfing or other temporary accommodations, explains Kelford. In desperation, youth will sleep outside, under bridges, hidden in parks, (see photo above) in abandoned sheds and buildings, placing themselves in danger just trying to secure a place to lay their heads.
Not surprisingly these youth are stressed and fearful, uncertain about their immediate futures. Usually under age, they cannot access financial assistance, and minimum wage jobs leave them struggling to meet basic needs like food, clothing, hygiene products, and school supplies, and they definitely can’t afford housing on their own.
“We run the housing first program where we work with youth to find them housing, there are no pre-conditions. We take them apartment hunting, we advocate for them with the landlord, we show them how to sign a lease, how to pay a hydro bill, and we help them with rent,” explains Halladay.
Besides fundraising through municipal asks, Cornerstone Landing partners with businesses throughout the area. This year they’ve partnered with Deadly Grounds to provide art workshops for free to vulnerable youth. This last spring Carleton Place Home Depot nominated Cornerstone Landing for their Orange Door campaign and are continuing the support through their winter campaign. They are accepting donations from November 12 to Dec 22 for Cornerstone Landing.
At the same time Cornerstone Landing continues to raise awareness and support for young people facing homelessness and human trafficking. One such upcoming information session is Stand Up For Youth to be held on Thursday November 21 at Connectwell in Carleton Place from 6 to 8 p.m. It will feature guest speak-
ers Kelford who is also the founder and chair of the National Alliance to End Rural and Remote Homelessness and Wendy Gee, executive director of A New Day.
All of Cornerstone Landing’s services for youth are provided by 3.5 staff members. Two full time case managers, one part time and since March of this year a full time manager to help streamline operations and service delivery.
At Cornerstone case workers build relationships with the youth. They drive them to doctor’s appointments, attend school meetings with them, act as their trustee with social services, and help them manage their finances.
“The rent either goes directly to the landlord or through me to the landlord. I’ve had youth ask me to remain as a trustee even after they turn 18,” says Wright.
Cornerstone Landing offers full wrap around services for youth, focusing on both prevention and long-term support for housing and homelessness. They connect young people with essential community resources and services including food banks, mental health services, addiction services and employment services to ad-
dress their immediate needs.
“I’m amazed at the youth I work with. They’re living by themselves, going to school, working part or full time, paying heat and hydro, buying groceries, there’s no chance I would have been able to do that at 16 or 17,” says Wright.
Helping youth stabilize their housing allows them to focus on their education and employment opportunities, and build a foundation for their future.
“I’ve had kids who have done amazing at school and gone on to college and done really well. They’re resilient if they’re given a chance,” says Wright, who has worked with youth for more than 25 years, and says it can be very challenging mentally and emotionally but also very rewarding.
Cornerstone continues to support youth until they stabilize, not just for a week or a year.
“Our program is not a program you graduate from, we’re just here to help,” concludes Halladay.
To support this organization don’t miss Cornerstone Landing’s next Coldest Night of the Year winter fundraising walk to be held February 22, 2025. Register at https://cnoy. org/location/lanarkcounty
‘NO INTEREST IN BEING TEETOTALLERS’: SF council cancels liquor licence for memorial centre
Smiths Falls - LAURIE WEIR editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Town council has voted unanimously to cancel the liquor licence at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre, following a request from the Parks and Recreation Department’s director in October.
Director Stephanie Clark said the decision came after a review of the licence's longterm value to the facility, which has been used to serve alcohol at various events.
“By no means are we a temperance society,” Clark said. “We have no interest in being teetotallers, but we would like to sanction alcohol in the facility.”
Clark’s report, present-
ed to council last month, led to a vote in favour of the cancellation during the regular council meeting on Monday, Nov. 4.
The Town has held the liquor licence to allow staff to operate a bar at community events, but recent shifts in event programming and a better understanding of associated risks prompted the review.
“The Memorial Community Centre is evolving into a hub for safe, inclusive, and alcohol-free activities, which better aligns with our current programming priorities,” Clark said. “It’s important to note that this does not preclude others from hosting events with alcohol, nor does it prevent the Town from doing so.”
Clark added that the cancellation is intended to limit the town’s liability and shift responsibility for alcoholrelated risks to user groups.
“The rationale for this is that we are required to come to the board (council) to cancel a liquor licence,” she said.
Although Clark only had discussions with user groups after the decision, she said they have since come forward with plans to host a bar at certain events using a catering licence.
“We’re working through a process where we are looking to have a user group host a bar at a number of their home games, so they’re just using a catering licence, which doesn’t entirely remove the risk from the Town,
but it certainly mitigates it significantly,” Clark said.
The costs of maintaining the liquor licence, including staff training, insurance, and wages, also factored into the decision. By cancelling the licence, Clark said, the Town can reallocate resources to other priorities, such as facility upgrades and new programming.
“The ongoing expenses associated with maintaining the liquor licence can be better used elsewhere to support the community,” Clark noted in her report.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has advised that continuing the licence could expose the Town to additional legal liabilities, particularly with unsanctioned alcohol consumption.
Clark explained that the AGCO’s advice on this matter prompted the decision to limit the Town’s exposure to liability.
When asked about future events by Coun. Jennifer Miller, Coun. Peter McK-
enna (who sits on the Old Home Week committee) said that the decision would not prevent special events, such as theirs, from hosting their licensed events.
“The user groups can still host their events where alcohol will be served,” McKenna said.
Coun. Jay Brennan also saw potential in the change, suggesting it could allow user groups to generate revenue. However, he emphasized the need to upgrade the kitchen and bar areas, noting that the current facilities were “old and tired.”
“It’s a nice space, but it could be made more attractive,” Brennan said.
Mayor Shawn Pankow supported the decision, describing it as a prudent move to protect the town’s interests.
“It doesn’t limit anybody’s ability to get a special occasion’s permit if they want to run activities there,” the mayor said, “but it takes the burden and the potential risk off of us.”
The Town of Smiths Falls has cancelled its liquor licence for the memorial centre, opting to leave that to user groups who want to serve alcohol at events. Photo credit: Submitted [Town of Smiths Falls].
A 2024 youth encampment in Carleton Place. Photo credit: Submitted.
lifestyle
Hospice Hub gains momentum with Perth’s Polar Bear Plunge fundraiser
Perth - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
While it’s been gloriously slow getting here, winter is coming and with it the Perth Polar Bear Plunge. This year’s plunge fundraising recipient is the Hospice Hub.
“Every person we can pull out of hospital and give a compassionate and dignified death is a win, and saves thousands of dollars from the
Health Care system,” says Alfred Von Mirbach, this year’s lead organizer of the plunge and a Hospice Hub volunteer. This year’s Polar Bear Plunge is an important fundraiser for the fledgling grass roots Hospice Hub which needs to capitalize on the momentum they’ve built so far.
The nurse coordinator is the first contact that people will have with the Hospice. She’s the one that will take the time to meet with the client and their family and do a deep dive into their needs: social, emotional and physical.
“My nursing background in medicine and hemodialysis has shown me that people can experience quality of life, meaning and purpose amidst life-limiting illnesses. That is what I hope to contribute to The Hospice Hub,” says Hannah Ryan, the new nurse coordinator.
In her role as coordinator Ryan will look at both the needs of the terminally ill as well as the needs of their caregiver, family and supports. She will answer questions for all concerned around the processes and services available. She will also follow their progress throughout their journey.
“When you have a nurse coordinator go in, she’s able to spend the time and go into depth of what the dynamics are. Are there family dynamics, are there financial issues, are there complicated circumstances, what’s already been put in place, do they have adequate pain and
“Through the Hike for Hospice we’ve been able to hire a nurse coordinator which was a huge piece for us,” says Anne Janssen, volunteer executive director.
symptom management, is there a doctor or someone that’s willing to follow them or do we need to get the nurse practitioner involved? They may not be aware that there is a Community palliative care medic program which can assist with crisis and pain and symptom management and provide treatment at home where they don’t have to go to the emergency department,” explains former palliative care nurse, Janet Douglass, Hospice board member and clinical advisor.
Up until now there has been no hospice in the Perth and Smiths Falls area.
“Speaking specifically about the need for a hospice, the fact that we don't have one locally means that even people who don't want to die in the hospital are sometimes forced to do so because their care needs cannot be met in the community,” says Dr. Andrew Oh, family physician at Tay River Health Centre, adding, “This not only goes against the principle of patient-centred care, but also puts a huge strain on the limited resources at the hospital because an acute care bed is taken up by a patient receiving end-of-life care.”
JANET DOUGLASS AND THE HOSPICE HUB: Compassionate approach to life’s final journey
Regional - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Intense, funny, morethan-knowledgeable, opinionated… that’s who Janet Douglass is.
She’s also a Board Member, the volunteer clinical advisor, and a founding member of the growing and rapidly getting-off-theground Hospice Hub that’s begun to serve the Perth and Smiths Falls hospital areas.
She’s 52, a registered nurse, and has worked in a hospice palliative care environment her whole career; she’s also one of the many strong women who have teamed up to get this particular hospice up and running.
“Death has played a prominent part in my life. A lot of people died when I was very young,” she says. She remembers losing grandparents and friends around 11. “That’s a difficult age anyway,” she adds, particularly so when you lose someone you love.
She also remembers long conversations with her mother “trying to understand the nature of life and death, reality, what’s our purpose here,” and admits, with a bit of a laugh, that one of her first books, at 14, was Death, the Great Adventure.
“It’s led me,” she says, “to my own exposure therapy, getting up close and personal with death.”
Death is universal, she goes on — “…it’s a big issue, a topic nobody wants to talk about. It creates discomfort.
“People don’t want to contemplate their own mortality, let alone think about what’s going to happen when a mother, a father, a sister dies.
“We don’t ‘do’ death.”
She fills in a bit of history here: “We used to care for grandma at home. She was in an upstairs bedroom, and everybody was there when she died. She was brought downstairs, bathed, dressed… and the funeral and wake were in the parlour.
“Funerals took place in people's parlours, in their homes.”
She goes on: “Embalming started in the early/mid 19th century to get soldiers home so their loved ones could see them.
“And it took off.
“That’s when death was taken out of the home, away from the family. That’s when we lost our connection to death, and what death looked like.”
This is one reason the Hospice Hub is here. “The job we do is clear — we provide a compassionate community where everyone can live, age, die and grieve.
“We help people die well, without unnecessary suffering.”
And even more importantly “we help navigate the
system. It’s important to ask the right questions, to give people all the options, educate them, so they can make their own choices.”
She tells a story: A client was in tertiary care, verging on 100, very sick, with a complex diagnosis. The family was there by her side while everything possible was being done to keep her alive.
Douglass shakes her head a bit here: “Sometimes they don’t understand that they have a choice …they don’t know what they don’t know.”
She went into the room. “I looked at her. She wasn’t okay. She was suffering greatly. I had a conversation with her, and asked her what she wanted
“She said — I don’t want this, I want a quiet room, I want to visit with my grandchildren. I’m ready to go.”
So Douglass talked with the doctor, with the family and everything happened.
“She died peacefully in her room after spending time with her grandchildren and family.”
Douglass adds thoughtfully: “Often doctors are happy someone else is having the conversation.”
The Hospice Hub has been organizing in the community since March 2023; even so, there’s still a lot to do.
• The Perth and Smiths Falls area has been allocated four beds from the government
The goal is to eventually have a Hospice facility with four beds, where people who can’t or don’t wish to die at home can do so with dignity in a safe, compassionate and supported environment.
In the meantime the fledgling Hospice Hub is carefully and slowly building capacity to serve clients in their own homes. Their next step is to offer a day hospice program starting next year and serve a larger clientele.
“The community is ready for this. We need this. It’s obvious. There are more people dying in Lanark County and Leeds than are being born. We have to start looking after our population,” says Janssen.
So far the Hospice Hub has been able to serve clients in Tay Valley, Portland, Drummond North Elmsley and Brooke Valley. They are currently actively inviting referrals. Anyone can refer themselves, a family member, or a friend.
“We have quite a capacity already to meet whatever comes, we just want to do it in an orderly fashion. We just don’t want to get slammed, but we are looking for referrals right now,” says Douglass.
Once a referral has been
received and assessed by the Nurse coordinator they will be matched up with a trained volunteer supporter who will visit on a weekly basis and report back to the Nurse Coordinator.
“So if there are slight changes in the clients needs or new issues come up or something needs to be addressed, that information all goes to the clinical coordinator on a weekly basis. Then the clinical coordinator can address it immediately.”
According to Janssen the whole point of hospice care is its immediate responsiveness.
“When someone’s been diagnosed, when someone is at the end of life you don’t know how long. Things change and can change quickly so you also want to respond in a quick manner because everything is life or death at that time,” says Janssen. If you or someone you know is facing the end of life, you can reach out to the Hospice Hub Home Support Program. Simply leave a voicemail at 613627-0974 or email Hannah Ryan at nursecoordinator@ thehospicehub.ca. To participate in this year's Polar Bear Plunge and help bring hospice to our area visit www.thehospicehub.ca/
• It’s going to cost $1,000,000 to get our hospice residence up and running; some of that money has already been raised.
• The second volunteer training starts early November.
• A day hospice begins in 2025.
Douglass stops there and backs up. A day hospice is a day-away for patients, for them to be around other people going through similar things … a life threatening diagnosis, blood work, scans, chemo, hospitalizations, doctor’s appointments, meds, pills.
The day hospice is run by volunteers. There’s lunch, art, games, cards, guided meditations, complementary therapies like hand/foot massages, manicures, whatever they fancy — “maybe just sit and read a book.”
It’s a place to get away from all the medical focus in their lives, one day a week, from 9 to 2pm. There’s a meal, sometimes a speaker. It gives them a day away while being supported, which also provides respite to their caregiver.
As the day goes on, a nurse co-ordinator unobtrusively takes a few moments with each person, to get an update, to check in with them,
and to catch things before a crisis. “It’s consistent, coordinated, compassionate care,” Douglass says.
She describes it as a journey with Hospice. “People get involved, they come to the day program, then are often filtered into home support when they can no longer attend. Then, if they don’t want to die at home, they come into a hospice residence.” The relationship with the Hospice is consistent, and follows them as they progress through their illness. There is trust, caring, and an understanding that we are there for them. Putting their needs and priorities first, it’s very compassionate care.
Even after death, there’s a grief and bereavement program. “There’s support for someone all the way through, and then for their
family, caregivers and loved ones, after they die.”
Douglass adds a statistic: “For everyone who dies, five are intimately affected. There’s a huge impact on the community as a whole when it’s not done well. “The impact is massive.” Want to get involved? Here’s how: Email info@thehospicehub.ca or nursecoordinator@thehospicehub.ca Go to https://www.thehospicehub.ca/ Call 613-627-0974. Attend the Palliative Care Education Day on Thursday, 12:30 to 5, November 28 at Oakfield Rugby Park in Perth. Registration is required (see website).
Douglass has the last word: “We’re very responsive. You can’t mess around when someone’s dying.
– The Hospice Hub
Janet Douglass is helping to get The Hospice Hub up and running in the community. Photo credit: Sally Smith.
Taking the plunge, Alfred Von Mirbach is a true believer in the importance of a Hospice Hub, and is spearheading the Plunge for Hospice this year. “This is a service we’re investing in because the potential is we might need it, so support the plunge because it’s the right thing to do and it feels good,” he says. Photo credit: Submitted.
Food & Drink
Fall offerings at the LCBO
Column by Brian Preston
| brianpreston@hotmail.com | 613.272.3129
The Travelling Sommelier GOODIES
With Thanksgiving over and Halloween approaching, I thought I would share a few good offerings at affordable prices from LCBO this month. The wines are all under $20.
Angel's Envy Bourbon Finished in Port Barrels, Kentucky, USA LCBO#: 21465, 43%abv, $74.95
Save $5.00 Sale Ends: November 10th
Angel's Envy is their masterpiece inspired by Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson's lifetime crafting fine spirits. Pours deep amber with aromas and flavours of almond, honey, apple, cinnamon, and blueberry compote. It's full-bodied and elegantly smooth with a long-lasting finish. Savour solo after a meal.
Maverick Barnburner Whisky, Ontario, Canada
LCBO#: 631853, 41.6% abv, $35.95
Barnburner is a blend of corn and rye whiskies, double aged in bourbon barrels at the Maverick Distillery in Oakville, Ontario. Enjoy a soft and balanced whisky with notes of vanilla, caramel, rye, sweet bourbon, apple and pear, and a hint of woodsmoke. It's great on the rocks, or in any of your favourite whisky cocktails.
This refreshing Pinot Grigio bursts with aromas of white peach, pear, green apple and light notes of citrus fruit. The palate is fresh with lemon zest and mineral notes that carry through to the finish. Pair with antipasto, vegetarian dishes, grilled seafood and poultry.
Magnotta Equus Series Home Stretch White Blend OntarioVQA, 12.5%abv, LCBO#: 37967
The Equus Series from Magnotta Winery celebrates the founder, Gabe Magnotta, his love of horses, art, and his passion for Ontario wine. This lively blend reveals aromas of citrus fruit with nutty and herbal notes. The palate is zesty and fresh. Sip on its own or pair it with mildly spiced dishes.
Magnotta Equus Series Double Cab OntarioVQA, LCBO#: 37966, 13.5%abv, The Equus Series from Magnotta Winery celebrates the founder, Gabe Magnotta, his love of horses, art and his passion for Ontario wine. This bold and flavourful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc displays blackberry fruit notes with a soft and elegant mouthfeel, pair it with steak.
FRESH Wines are crafted from 100% Ontario-grown grapes. This Sauvignon Blanc reveals peach, citrus fruit, green apple and kiwi on the nose while delivering a refreshing and crisp mouthfeel. It is medium-bodied and pairs well with fresh summer salads and grilled vegetables.
Sandbanks Winery is located in Ontario's Prince Edward County. Their Sauvignon Blanc is bright and fresh, with citrusy aromas and subtle herbaceous notes. The palate is dry and harmonious, with notes of citrus zest, tropical fruit and gooseberry. Try pairing it with vegetable-based Indian dishes or fresh green salads.
Duca di Saragnano Nero di Troia 2021, Puglia, Italy, VINTAGES#: 23034, 13.5%abv, $15.95
Made from the Puglian grape variety Nero di Troia, this wine serves up rich notions of blackberry and sweet spices wrapped in a velvety texture. Pair with roast meats, game, or aged cheeses. [Luca Maroni tasting note not available.] Score - 97. (lucamaroni. com, Feb. 8, 2022).
And lest I forget our other readers who want to splurge during the upcoming Holiday Season or celebrate a very special occasion, I include this great Chilean wine which I have not seen on LCBO shelves for a long time. But in keeping with this article on bargain wines repre-
senting ‘good bang for your buck’ save 50% rather than buying the Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 (50th Anniversary) from California at $439.95! Besides, Sena was rated a perfect 100 points! I first had this wine on the Norwegian ‘Dawn’ in their specialty French restaurant, le Bistro, a couple of decades ago. It also came with large Riedel stemware which you got to keep. Sena was a wine project in Chile in 1997 where owner Eduardo Chadwick called in Robert Mondavi from California as a wine consultant to improve Chilean viticulture and wine-making. As it turned out, the 1997 vintage in California was the ‘vintage of the century’. Attending the 1999 world launch at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa of the Canadian Icewine glass sponsored by Don Ziraldo of Inniskillin wines in Niagara, and made by Georg Riedel in Austria, was Michael Mondavi, who said that the 1997 California vintage was so good that, “All anybody had to do was scrunch a bunch of grapes in the bottle and you had a winner”!
Seña 2021, Valle del Aconcagua, Chile, Vintages #496430, 14%abv, $209.95
Overwhelming nose with a cornucopia of black, red and blue berries, perfectly accented by fine toasty oak. With aeration the floral notes expand. Super-concentrated and vibrant with incredible finesse on the medium- to full-bodied palate. Such great brilliance at the finish, where the power builds very steadily. Still so young, but already dangerously delicious. It will be really hard to wait. A cuvee of 50% cabernet sauvignon, 27% malbec, 17% carmenere and 6% petit verdot. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2025. 20th Anniversary Berlin Tasting Event, February 2024. [Drink into mid-2030s+.] Score - 100. (Stuart Pigott, jamessuckling.com, March 3, 2024)
Well that’s it for November. In December, I hope to be able to report on some beverages from the Caribbean that I will try on a November cruise with my adult daughter. She is an actress in her spare time and my wife rightly reminded me that I have taken the boys on camping/ canoe trips, but have never done anything ‘father-daughter’ special. Time to correct that, but my daughter says that she will be playing it up at the dining table with an ‘older man’ and I dread what she’ll say when we walk past the jewelry counter!! Cheers!
*Ask about our gourmet gift baskets, the perfect gift anyone would love to receive. Select your own items for personal touch or select a pre-made basket in store
Canadians hand Bears tough Sunday loss in CCHL action battle
Smiths Falls - LAURIE WEIR
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Carleton Place Canadians pushed the Smiths Falls Bears out of the top spot of the Robinson Division in CCHL action on Sunday, Nov. 10.
Carleton Place has a 10-61-1 record for 22 points; two more than Smiths Falls (9-81-1). Overall, the teams are fifth and sixth respectively in the league. Rockland still has a commanding lead with 33 points with 16 wins, 1 loss and 1 overtime loss.
Hawkesbury (24 points), Cornwall (24 points) and Navan (23 points) are in the top four.
of ontario nov. 19-20 in smiths falls
Smiths Falls travelled to Carleton Place for the Battle of Highway 15 on Sunday, where the hometown handed the visitors a 3-1 upset — it was an empty net goal that shut the door on the Bears.
Carleton Place held a 2-0 lead through the first period, and after a scoreless second, Smiths Falls notched their lone marker at 4:08 in
the third frame when Marc Antoine Riopel scored his first of the season.
Carleton Place markers were scored by William Bouwer and Henry Doucet in the opening period before Bouwer fired home the insurance goal late in the game.
Ian Vandenberg captured the game’s first star with 30 saves in the crease for Carleton Place. Doucet was the
second star for Carleton Place, and Riopel had the third star nod.
Ethan Morrow was hit with the loss with 19 saves. Referees had their work cut out for them in the chippy match, with nearly one hour in minor offenses being assessed, collectively.
SMITHS FALLS 2 NAVAN 1 Tyson Parker scored the overtime winner as Smiths
culture
Falls defeated the Navan Grads on Nov. 8 in front of 537 fans – the highest number of people in the stands this season.
It was a 1-1 draw through regulation with Smiths Falls getting on the board first in the opening period. Jack Paquette scored his second of the season, assisted by Parker and Caeden Heins.
Navan tied the game at 19:52 of the second, when Sebbie Johnson scored, assisted by Colin Holmes and Noah Carpenter.
After a scoreless third, overtime was forced.
Parker lifted the Bears to their 2-1 win with his 11th goal of the season, assisted by Quinn Booth and Hayden Ashcroft.
Smiths Falls outshot Navan 35-25 with Ethan Morrow taking the credit in the crease.
Tomas Gagne was hit with the loss.
Game stars were Morrow for Smiths Falls (first); Gagne for Navan (second) and Parker for Smiths Falls (third). Parker is listed in the top 10 for scoring in the league with 11 goals and 14 assists to sit in the No. 8 spot with 25 points.
COMING GAMES
Nov. 15, Kemptville at Smiths Falls, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 15, in Rockland, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 19, Postponed vs Pembroke due to Battle of Ontario
Nov. 22, Rockland at Smiths Falls, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 24, at Kemptville, 2 p.m.
Nov. 29, Cornwall at Smiths Falls, 7:30 p.m.
BATTLE OF ONTARIO
Nov. 19 and 20, Smiths Falls will host the Battle of Ontario. Check out the CCHL website for a list of game times.
Robinson Division All Stars from Smiths Falls include forwards Travis Ouellette and Tyson Parker; defensemen Davis Hails and Kyle James, and netminder Ethan Morrow. They will be joined by their bench boss Pat Malloy. Forward Caeden Heins will join the Young Guns squad. The all-star teams will play in a tournament-style event with semi-final and championship games. The prospects will play in a showcase style event. Games start at 11 a.m. on Nov. 19, with the last one slated for 7:45 p.m. On Wednesday, action resumes at 9 a.m. with the championship game on tap at 5:45 p.m.
Perth community gathers for solemn Remembrance Day ceremony
Perth - LAURIE WEIR
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
It was a balmy 12 degrees for the Nov. 11 ceremony in Perth under gunmetal grey skies, as residents honoured those who have gave their lives for freedom – as well as those still fighting.
This year’s Silver Cross Mother was Karen (Moodie) Packer.
Her family has a long history with the Canadian military. Her husband is Warrant Officer (Retired) Len Parker, and her father, Gordon Arthur Moodie, was with the Military Police and was a Korean war veteran.
Karen’s grandfather, Robert Allan Moodie was with the Canadian Expeditionary Force of the First World War, and her great-uncle, Robert’s brother, was Stuart McIntyre Moodie with the 5th Canadian Mounted Rifles of the First World War. He was killed in action during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
Drummond Street was closed to traffic during the ceremony, as wreaths and crosses were laid at the Great War Memorial.
Warden Steve Fournier read from the list of those who participated in the First World War, while Tay Valley Township Reeve Rob Rainer read the Second
World War list of veterans.
The Perth Citizens’ Band performed a couple hymns, as well as the Last Post.
The Perth-Upon-Tay Royal Canadian Legion chaplain Bernie Boucher led the community in prayer, and the always moving poem, In Flanders Fields, was recited
by Alfred Von Mirbach.
The ceremony was hosted by legion president, Ivan Cole.
Following the laying of the wreaths and crosses by local dignitaries, and emergency response teams (police, fire, paramedics), the community was invited to do the same.
Jim Graff and comrades lay a wreath. Photo credit: Laurie Weir. Marilyn Devlin (centre) and her son (right) lay a wreath. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
Tay Valley Township Reeve Rob Rainer; Lanark County Warden and Drummond North Elmsley Reeve Steve Fournier, Lanark County’s CAO Kurt Greaves and Perth’s Deputy Mayor Ed McPherson wait to take part in the Perth Remembrance Day service on Nov. 11. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
Sgt. At Arms Stacey Niceliu escorts the Silver Cross Mother Karen Packer to the cenotaph. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
The Great War Memorial is decked in a crocheted poppy cascade. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
Smiths Falls Bears secure OT victory against Navan Grads on Nov. 8. Photo credits: Chris Uhlig.
