Inside Wellington 012513

INSIDE WELLINGT­­­ON Second Section January 25, 2013

The Alma Plunger Toss: A community tradition

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Elora teen recognized for classical guitar success EVENTS RURAL LIFE FINANCIAL PLANNING COUNTY PAGE SPORTS the second section of the wellington advertiser

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PAGE TWO Inside Wellington - Second Section of the Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

Public Service announcements

Stacked up - As local churches were asked to supply different food items for the annual Food Bank Christmas Hamper program, the mission of St. James Anglican Church in Fergus was to provide canned vegetables. The goal was to collect 325 cans. By pooling money and resources, they ended up collecting $582 which in turn generated close to 1,000 cans. FreshCo manager, Patrick Anderson, came forward and gave the group a great deal per case and personally delivered them to the church. The parish would like to say a thank you to Anderson and the FreshCo team for giving the food Bank has a plentiful start for the new year. photo supplied

Inside Wellington Events Send your Non-Profit/Charitable event info to: events@wellingtonadvertiser.com 20-25 words, 4 weeks prior to event date

Kate McNally Memorial Students vs.

Police Hockey Game Friday, January 25, 6:30-9:00pm Palmerston Community Centre Tickets: $5 at the door Free public skate, 5:30-6:30pm A MADD Wellington County Fundraiser

653 St David St N. • 519-843-2550 www.fergusprinting.com

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We pFLYERS/POSTERS

Free weekly Drop In Yoga for Adults every Thurs. eve 4:305:30pm, Certified Yoga Instructor Owen Ash. St. John’s Church, 112 Guelph St. Rockwood. Info. 519-856-9211. *** The Victoria Park Seniors Centre in Fergus has a wide variety of programs for all. Registered programs may be taken by anyone over 18 years old. Call 519-787-1814. *** The Kiwanis Music Festival of Guelph is celebrating its 32nd Anniversary from April 8 to 26. Application from entrants are being accepted until January 18. Apply at www.guelphkiwanismusicfestival.org. *** Easter Eggs. Chocolate, Fondant filled eggs, white /dark chocolate crosses $2 and bunnies $1, for sale. Place your order now. Call St. Andrew’s Church 519-843-3565. Deadline for orders is March 11.

Proceeds to children of Haiti.

Fri. JAN 25

Knox Presbyterian Church Palmerston Roast Beef Dinner. Two sittings 4:30 and 6pm. Tickets $13 per person. Under 12 years $6.

For tickets call 519-343-3428 or 519-343-3144. *** Fergus contra dance series continues with live music by Relative Harmony. Victoria Park Field House, 150 Albert St. W., Fergus.

8-10:30pm. Admission $10, students $8, youth with adult free. No partner or previous experience necessary. All dances are taught and called. Contact: Janice Ferri 519-843-9971. *** Alma Optimist Beef Barbecue. 5-7pm. $12, Alma Community Centre. *** All Saints Community Dinner. Delicious bone-in baked ham with scalloped potatoes. 6-7pm. No sermon and no charge; free will offerings gratefully accepted and gluten-free available. All Saints Church, 81 Main Street, Erin. “The one with the big white spire”. *** Ladies Coffee Hour, 9:30-11:30am at St. John’s Anglican Church, 112 Guelph St. Rockwood. Join us for coffee or tea. Everyone welcome. For more info. call 519-856-9211. *** Free Public Skate 5:30-6:30pm. Free. Palmerston Community Centre Arena. Sponsored by MADD Wellington County. *** Kate McNally Memorial Student-Police Hockey Game 6:30-9pm.

Palmerston Community Centre Arena. Tickets $5 each. A MADD Wellington County fundraiser.

Sat. JAN 26

Country Dance at the Elora Legion featuring Swan Creek. Starts at 8pm. Cost $10 per person, lunch provided. Call 519-846-9611. *** Marsville Lions Community Breakfast. $5 per person. Marsville Community Centre. Last Saturday of every month. 7:30-10:30am.

Also, recycling of wine bottles, beer bottles and cans, pop cans. *** Adult/Senior Ice Skating. 8-9:50pm. Exhibition Park Arena, Guelph. Cost $7 for members, $8 for non-members. Contact 519836-1015. *** Arthur Legion Br. 226. Karaoke 8:30pm. *** Treasure Shop- 9am-12noon at Bethel Baptist Church. 675 Victoria Terrace, Fergus, Free good used clothing for all ages.

Held by Grace Christian Fellowship. *** Country Breakfast at Rockwood United Church, Harris Street Rockwood 8am-11am. Tickets available at door. $20 Adults, $5 Child (5-12) and $20 Family Deal. All welcome. For more information 519-856-4160. *** Knox Presbyterian Church, Ospringe. Scrapbooking, 9am-3pm, lunch provided, donation to food bank appreciated. Contact 519856-9720.

sun. JAN 27

Palmerston Legion Jamboree. 1-5pm. Roast beef dinner will be available. 519-343-2004. *** Erin Legion Jamboree. Doors open at 12:30pm, dinner served at 5pm. Take-out available. Come hear your favourite songs by your favourite singers. *** Walk for Memories. Old Quebec Street 55 Wyndham St. N. Guelph. 9am-12pm. Mount Forest and District Community Complex, 850 Princess St., Mount Forest. 9:30am -12pm. Register or pledge a walker 519-836-7672 for the Alzheimer Society Guelph - Wellington.

Tues. JAN 29

Sunday February 10, 2013 share the wealth package $15 - main program package $25 (both packages are required - extra strips available)

$10 redeemable slot play coupon provided to each bingo player

“Proceeds to local Community projects” Held at Grand River Raceway

7445 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora

www.ferguselorarotary.com Held under lottery license #M634122.

FERGUS ELORA ROTARY FOUNDATION Staffed by: Centre Wellington Rotary Club and Fergus Elora Rotary Club

Pepper Cards. Harriston Legion #296. Start at 1:30pm sharp. *** Wellington County Farm and Home Safety Association Annual Meeting and Banquet, 7pm at the Alma Bible Church. A roast beef dinner will be served by the members of the church. Tickets $15 each. Contact Walter Grose 519-846-5329.

Wed. JAN 30

Grand Valley and District Horticultural Society meeting. 7:30pm at Trinity United Church in Grand Valley. Guest Speaker Barry van der Veer discussing “From Radio to Garden”. Please join us.

All are welcome. *** Dinner with the Rockwood & District Lioness 6pm. “Ham and Scalloped Potatoes” at Rockmosa Community Centre, Rockwood.

Adults $15, Children 12 and under $7. For info. or tickets call Jean

519-856-1402, Jane 519-856-2978 or any Rockwood Lioness. *** Erin Legion Blood Donor Clinic. 2:30-7:30pm. New and frequent donors are welcome to give the gift of life.

thurs. JAN 31

Upcoming Tree Talk: Poverty and Deforestation in Central America. Learn about the connection between deforestation and poverty in Latin America. 7pm. Elora Centre for the Arts (75 Melville St. Elora). $5 or free for members. For information call 519-846-0841.

fri. feb. 1

Community Euchre, sponsored by Optimist Club of Puslinch.

7:30pm at Puslinch Community Centre. $3 per person, includes lunch. 50/50 draw. Call Neil Smith for info. 519-837-3838. *** Brighton Chapter #201 O.E.S. Euchre starts in the Masonic Hall, 310 St. Andrew St. E. Fergus. 7:30pm. Lunch will be served. Call Betty at 519-787-8250. *** The Royal Canadian Legion, Guelph annual King and Queen of Hearts Luncheon. 11:30am-1:30pm. Tickets $8 per person and all proceeds will support the North-Wellington Chapter of the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Sat. feb. 2

Fergus Legion Jam Session. Non-members welcome. Come and join in. 2-5pm. *** Arthur Agricultural Society Groundhog Day Celebration. Free Skating 4-5pm. Roast Beef Dinner 5-7pm. $12 per adult, family rate available. Arthur Community Centre. *** Adult/Senior Ice Skating. 8-9:50pm. Exhibition Park Arena, Guelph. $7 for members, $8 for non-members. Contact 519-8361015. *** Fergus Agricultural Society Dance, Elora Legion 8pm-12am. Bill Beattie Band. $10 per person. For tickets call Ted Kent 519-8433371. *** Crown Cemetery Annual Meeting, 1pm, Duffs Church, Puslinch.

For more information contact Darlene Harrietha, 519-822-0874.

All welcome. *** Knox Presbyterian Church, Ospringe, 6pm. Ground Hog Day Stew supper, with musical entertainment featuring Monty Greig to follow. Door prizes. Proceeds to benefit church maintenance and local charity. Tickets $10, contact Cindy 519-362-1613 or Jo 519-856-9720.

Tues. feb. 5

Fergus-Elora Rotary club is pleased to have David Barr speak about photography. Please visit www.ferguselorarotary.com. *** Drive Thru chicken BBQ. ½ chicken, potato, roll, coleslaw, dessert. 5-7pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Fergus. Order and pick up your tickets by Jan 30. Call the church office 519843-3565. *** The Royal Canadian Legion, Br.234 Guelph, 57 Watson Parkway S. Seniors Day. Doors open at noon and registration 1pm, games begin at 2pm. Games include Euchre, Bid Euchre, Shuffleboard.

Dinner will be shepherd’s pie at a cost of $7. Pie $1.75 per piece.

thurs. feb. 7

Belwood Lions Jamboree- 7:30pm Belwood Hall. Come and Play, Sing, Dance & just enjoy the Entertainment. $5pp. (Performing musicians: FREE). Call 519-843-7011 for info.

Fri. feb. 8

Guelph Optimist Club Roast Beef Dinner. Serving 5-7pm. All you can eat! 89 Beechwood Ave., Guelph. Includes Pie, Cake, Tea, Coffee. Adults $15, Under 8 $5. Tickets at the door. 519-822-9581. *** The Royal Canadian Legion Guelph Valentines Dance 8pm-12 midnight. 57 Watson Parkway S., Guelph. 519-822-1565. Door prizes, light lunch included. $15 per couple or $10 per person.

Dance is open to the public. *** Community Resource Centre of North and Centre Wellington 16th Annual Chilifest Lunch. 11:30am-1:30pm. Fergus Legion, Branch 275, 500 Blair St. Fergus. $10 per person includes chili, coleslaw, roll, dessert, juice, tea and coffee. Tickets available in advance at Community Resource Centre Office or at the door. Delivery and Take Out. Silent Auction, Toonie Table, and balloon prizes. Call 519-843-7000 for more information.

Sat. feb. 9

Country Dance. Alma Community Centre, 8pm. $10. Dance to The Country Versatiles. *** Drayton Legion Jamboree. Dance, sing, play. 2-5pm. 519-3231591. *** Adult / Senior Ice Skating. 8-9:50pm. Exhibition Park Arena, Guelph. Cost $7 for members, $8 for non-members. Contact 519836-1015. *** Fergus-Elora Rotary Club’s singing contest at the Grand Theatre.

For more info. visit www.ferguselorarotary.com. *** Barrie Hill United Church 5702 Wellington Road 29 (R.R. #5), Rockwood, Valentine’s Dinner. 6pm. Three course menu featuring Roast Beef with musical entertainment through the evening. For tickets ($25 each) contact Tim at 519-763-2661. Proceeds to the Kitchen Renovations Fund. ***

Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013 PAGE THREE

Alma Optimist Plunger Toss: A community tradition

by Kelly Waterhouse

MAPLETON TWP. - When of the winter season for the Jim de Bock was flushing out people of Mapleton Township, ideas for a fundraiser to sup- and beyond.

One might assume that, port the Alma Optimist Club, Game on - The Alma Plunger Toss, a fundraiser for the Alma Optimist Club, is a tradition of small-town community spirit he wanted to create something given the small-town nature of and good, clean fun. The above crowd enjoyed the friendly competition in 2011.

Wellington Advertiser file photo the plunger toss, it is a tiny that was spot on.

Cover - Alma Optimist and plunger toss organizer Jim de Bock gets the plungers ready for the Feb. 2 competition.

The original concept, a event, but the line-up to register photo by Kelly Waterhouse Tin Can Curling bonspiel, had a team at the Alma Community begun to circle the drain (par- Centre begins early.

“We opened the doors of the don the pun). It was time for the bowl, and after 16 plung- Olympian Zamboni housed in It’s about legacy too, de munity.” something fresh and new. The community centre at 6:35am,” De Bock describes the ers have been played back and its own shed, is important to idea came to him late one night, said de Bock, who notes many Bock would add.

“It’s for posterity,” he said, crowd best: “Dressed in John forth for 15 minutes, the win- the event. on his way to the loo - and the of the participants are farm“Different people in the ers who needed to register in- noting that when the winners Deere coveralls, plaid lum- ning team reports to the scoreAlma Plunger Toss was born. community do the flooding. It’s are handed the trophy, people ber jackets or, in some cases, keeper,” said de Bock.

“The tin can curling was a between chores.

Each player gets two plung- a community effort,” said de “In previous years, I’ve had check to make sure their names penguins or others with toilet cultural kind of thing. It was a fun community celebration,” people even camped out on my are on the trophy. “It’s all about plungers glued to their hard hat, ers per round. Like stones in Bock adding, “It’s a true labour said de Bock, adding its demise lawn,” he joked. “We’ve done winning that trophy. It’s history they mingle about in a herd-like curling, plungers can cancel of love.”

Investing in the event’s suc… something you’ll pass on to circle until the tall, bearded each other out. There is one was a “pivotal point” for the things differently this year.” organizer of the Alma Optimist point awarded for a plunger cess, $9,000 in upgrades have People were to arrive early your grandchildren.” impetus to replace it with He notes the event is “a Plunger Toss shouts for their that goes in the house, 10 points been added to the rink this year, to get a number for registration something unique. if the force-up (or rubber end) requiring the fee for plunger “We needed something and then return at 1pm to offi- balance between absurdity and attention …

“They take one more quick lands in the toilet. In the event teams to go up by $5, for a total different,” recalls de Bock. cially register a team. People humanity,” or competition bal“I thought to myself - what’s could register up to four teams anced with community build- sip from their thermal mugs of of a tie, closest plunger to the of $40.

“Forty dollars is so incrediing. It may be fun, but par- coffee that smells of a mixture toilet wins. the one thing everybody finds each.

“The 56 teams will compete bly cheap,” said Thiessen. “The By the 1pm deadline, 56 ticipants take the competition of chocolate and transmission funny?” fluid and pull back hats that on two sheets of ice, broken Alma Optimists are a wonderAfter 35 years as a public teams were registered and a seriously.

Well, as seriously as you mimic road kill to listen. There into 28 teams at a time,” de ful organization. Whenever we school teacher, de Bock knew waiting list had begun. can with a team name like are rules to throwing plungers Bock said. “Each team will [the community] need them, “We wereALL-NEW sold out right2010 the answer: toilet humour.

INTRODUCING THE SUBARU LEGACY a toilet fromLEGACY one side of play four games in the morn- they have been helpful. They “The Soggy Bottom Boys,” is wonderful,” “Toilet humour has always away, which INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW 2010totheSUBARU rink to a Intoilet Alma or “Thebehind the saidjust de Bock. been toilet humour,” he shrugs.

This mid-size sedan doesn’t look different this year, it feels“The different.

You Turds,” feel the difference wheel. the on the other ing before the knockout tourna- are very community-minded, SUPERIOR JAPANESE This doesn’t feel just itlook year, it feels You the feelsmart the difference behind the wheel. theafternoon.” and kid-minded in what they ment in In the One ofDrive. the mid-size first your in sedan line was “Ultimately, created the All-Wheel turnsI with symmetrical Even passengers in different the extrathis room in the reardifferent. seats. From ENGINEERING FROM SUPERIOR JAPANESE do.” FROM Teams are ranked in their Jeff Fines. event as a fundraiser for the turns with symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Even your passengers feel it in the extra room in the rear seats.

From the smart ENGINEERING Japanese engineering and dynamic performance to the strength and presence evident in the exterior design, the Legacy gives *with top troAll money raised will go to final positions, “I’ve been involved in this Alma Optimists. My motiva$ Japanese engineering and dynamic performance to the strength and presence evident in the exterior design, the Legacy gives * greater dence, comfort and excitement. $ support Alma Optimist projphies for the gold, silver and since I was in grade school,”Don’t compromise on your next Sedan purchase. Visit your local tion for doingyou thisa was to sense bring of confi youwho a greater Visit yourwinners, local with prizes for ects for youths, such as T-ball Fines, is sense now ofinconfidence, comfort and excitement. Don’t compromise on your next Sedan purchase. bronze some flavourdealer to the for acommutest drive andsaid feel for yourself. dealer competing. for a test drive and teams, swimming events, each of the 226 participants.

“I feel for yourself. nity,” de Bock added, with a his 12th year Thiessen, who is on the school projects and sports. smile and glint of mischief in wouldn’t miss it. I’ve won it “I believe if you teach a waiting list for a spot in the his eye. “It was sort of, je ne twice.” tournament, insists luck is a child then [they] will teach In 2006, Fines made a sais quoi? ... It was meant to - Jim de Bock on the success of the Alma Optimist Plunger Toss. factor. more children and that is the YouTube video (found by be fun.”

“It doesn’t take any skill at circle. I believe in the circle,” When he brought the con- searching “Alma Plunger said de Bock. all,” he said, laughing. cept to his fellow Optimists, Toss”) as part of a college class His passion and pride are The event takes place at the he knew humour would be his project, capturing the event’s Incredibowls,” or the “Super side.”

Played on a sheet of ice, Alma Cow Palace, an outdoor clear: “I do it for the commuPoopers.” spirit of fun and camaraderie. best tool.

The names are almost as fun if the weather cooperates, the ice rink located in the heart of nity. That’s it. Period.”

Alma resident Alf Thiessen “The first reaction was Tradition is at the heart of game has elements of curling, the village. De Bock explains dumbfounded silence and then said this event is one of his as the costumes, de Bock said.

“We’ve always kind of only players slide the plunger the name originates from the the event and it all begins in disbelief,” de Bock recalls, favorite local traditions, dating the defining moment of the adding that quickly turned to back to its origin as the Tin Can established a plunger protocol,” into the house, as opposed to history of the site.

“When Alma was small, it coin toss. he said, noting costumes are sweeping it in. the pragmatic concern for the Bonspiel.

“There is a moment when “Two teams of four play- had three hotels. The farmers “I’ve lived here 35 years encouraged. “I mean, how do infrastructure required to pull ers challenge each other as the would come to town with their the sun just cascades over the and have done the Plunger Toss you dress for a plunger toss?” an event like this together.

The only rule - farmers plungers soar in rainbow arches cattle and put them in a holding Presbyterian bell tower, as the In other words, where every year,” Thiessen said.

“This is about the community take note - is, “We discourage across the width of the ice rink pen, which is the location of coin toss is thrown into the air would they get the toilets?

With a little help from fel- getting together. It’s small- manure on boots, because you plopping in the painted circle the current rink, where the ani- and the sun hits the coin as it can’t get the slide if there is or into the sweet spot inside the mals would wait until the train spins in the air … and they all low Mapleton resident and town fun.” bowl each one of us is familiar arrived and the farmers would watch the coin. The crowd falls Deb Phillips, who lives near manure on the ice.” local politician Carl Hall, who walk them down to the station.” silent and all heads follow that Perhaps these are the rea- with,” de Bock said. just happened to know a build- the rink where the event takes For years the Cow Palace coin in unison. I get the call There are 14 sheets, with a ing contractor renovating an place, said the occasion has sons why some people have apartment building with toilets become an important family ranked the Alma Plunger Toss toilet at each end, set approxi- ice has been taken care of – heads or tails. There’s a big as one of the most unique com- mately 35 feet apart. The cen- by community volunteers, cheer and it’s game on.” to recycle, fate was on a roll. event in her household.

The Alma Optimist Plunger tre of the toilet bowl is “the some now several generations “Our kids bring back friends munity events in Canada.

Hall and de Bock loaded a It certainly has a reputation house,” and players can actu- in passing the duties down, Toss begins at 9am on Feb. 2 at pick-up truck full of disposed from university and they think the Cow Palace, located on the ally curl their plunger into the including Thiessen. it’s just great,” Phillips said, to uphold. potties and headed home.

Phillips is proud of the loca- corners of King Street North “It’s competitive, but house, but the plunger must be Now in its 31st year, it is noting the festivities carry on fair to say the plunger toss has in homes throughout the com- everybody smiles. Everybody airborne when it goes across tion, adding, “We even have a and Graham Street East.

For more information conZamboni and boards and lights hit its mark not only as a fun- munity long after the plungers who has ever played the game the centre ice. tact Jim de Bock at 519-846“Exuberant cries direct the at the rink.” draiser for the Alma Optimist have been put away. “It’s about smiles,” said de Bock. “It The Ice Cow, a refurbished 5124. always kind of gels the com- plunger to its place in or beside Club, but as the cultural event getting everybody together.”

“It’s competitive, but everybody smiles. Everybody who has ever played the game smiles.”

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PAGE FOUR Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

AND

ENTERTAINMENT Gorge Cinema to host TVO’s Thom Ernst for screening of Hitchcock’s Vertigo ELORA - The Gorge Cinema celebrates its 40th anniversary showcasing movies with a screening of what some consider the best film of all time, Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 thriller Vertigo, on Jan. 27 at 4pm.

Hitchcock’s seductive tale of a San Francisco detective, played by James Stewart, who falls for a friend’s wife (Kim Novak) while investigating her mysterious past.

Producer and host Thom Ernst, of TVO’s venerable Saturday Night at the Movies (SNAM) will be on hand at the screening, offering insight on Hitchcock’s masterpiece, which was voted by The British Film Institute to the top spot over Orson Welles’ 1941 masterpiece Citizen Kane.

Ernst was a frequent patron of the Gorge Cinema during his student days in Waterloo and considers the cinema one of the top five repertory cinemas in Ontario.

In his on-line blog he writes “As cinemas grow bigger, louder and flashier, (not a bad thing, but a thing) the tranquility of the repertory movie

TVO host Thom Ernst house takes on greater significance. Nostalgia is part of it, but there’s more. These are the community cathedrals, country churches for anyone who has experienced the kind of transformation, fleeting or lasting, that a good movie offers.

“It’s too much to call it a religious experience, though it might feel that way to some.

Better to hold it as a cherished sanctuary, a place of refuge.

No doubt that for the next generation of movie lovers, similar experiences can be had at the

multiplexes – similar but not the same.”

Ernst’s appearance at the cinema will be one of his final as host of SNAM. Late last year, TVO executives announced that due to budget cuts, the publicly funded TV station would be making the very difficult decision to cancel Saturday Night at the Movies after 38 years and he recently called the visit “a suitable arena in which to wrap things up.”

For John Chalmers, owner of Gorge Cinema, the afternoon event will be a fitting tribute to both the film and Ernst’s role promoting great films.

“There’s a certain convoluted and delicious pleasure in having a 40-year-old cinema celebrate the best film of all time along with the host of the revered Saturday Night at the Movies. It’s going to be a memorable movie experience.”

Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 thriller Vertigo will appear at Gorge Cinema on Jan. 27 at 4pm.

Tickets are available in advance at the Gorge Cinema or by reservation through gorgecinema@gmail.com.

Collective show - The first group show of the Harris Collective for 2013 opened on Jan. 13 at the Elora Centre for the Arts. From left, artists Patrice Baker, jewellery designer; Clive Lewis, printmaker; Maggie Vanderweit, fabric artist and Mary Helps, watercolour painter. The show runs until Feb. 12. The gallery is open seven days a week. Admission is free. photo by Sylvia Galbraith

THE EAGLES NEW KID IN TOWN

Guelph Little Theatre brings award-winning production to the stage beginning Jan. 25 GUELPH - The Academy Award nominated movie Doubt A Parable, based on the Pulitzer Prize winning play by John Patrick Shanley.

On screen, the movie adaptation received rave reviews, starring Meryl Streep and Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

Now in the intimacy of a small venue, the story comes to life on the stage of Guelph Little Theatre starting Jan. 25.

“It has been a pleasure working with so many talented people in this production,” said producer Greg Insley.

“The skill and experience they bring to their individual disciplines lifts this production

Jim

by Kelly Waterhouse ELORA - The Royal Conservatory recently honoured Elora resident Zoe Clarke, winner of the 2012 gold medal for scoring the top mark in Ontario and Québec on the Grade 3 Guitar examination, during a ceremony in Toronto.

“It was very exciting knowing there would be other people there who were really great musicians,” said Clarke, a 15-year-old student at Centre Wellington District High School, where she plays tuba in the school’s concert band.

Clarke’s classical guitar teacher and mentor is Edward Szocinski, of Long and McQuade in Guelph, who has taken the student from the basics to a gold medal standard in just two years.

“I had no idea of the gold medal win,” said Clarke. “Ed mentioned the exam, so I started practicing. I had no idea what it was about before that.”

In her exam, Clarke performed five pieces including The Minuet from Cantata No. 26; Suite BWV822 Minuet; Allegretto and Allegretto Grazioso.

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and B and Grades 1 to 10 who achieve the highest mark in their respective province or designated region.

Eligible candidates must score at least 80 per cent on their practical examination and must have completed the corequisite theory examinations for their respective grade and discipline.

Clarke’s final average was 96 per cent, a feat that amazed the young artist herself. But her passion for classical guitar is evident.

“I love how it is like a band all in one instrument. But the skill involved in it is such a challenge that once you can play a song, it becomes part of you,” Clarke said.

“When I look at the music, it looks so incredibly difficult.

But once you get it into your fingers and into your head, it becomes almost intuitive. It flows very nicely.”

Having the right teacher inspires Clarke to continue her

study of the guitar.

“My favorite classical guitarist would be Edward. I have no idea how he does what he does,” she said, of his talent.

Under his direction, Clarke dreams of completing her Grade 8 guitar level by the end of high school, which she admits is a big challenge.

“I’m hoping to continue to take the rest of my exams,” she said.

Then, she hopes to pack up her guitar and head to medical school.

The Royal Conservatory is one of the largest and most respected music and arts education institutions in the world.

Providing the definitive standard of excellence in music education through its curriculum, assessment, performance, and teacher education programs globally. Over 47,000 examinations take place across Ontario and Québec.

For more information visit www.rcmusic.ca.

Guelph Youth Singers host youth choral festival GUELPH - Guelph Youth Singers (GYS) will host guest clinician, Rollo Dilworth and seven choirs in a gala choir festival on March 2.

Dilworth, is a professor at North Park University School of Music in Chicago and one of America’s most sought after composers.

The GYS 2013 Senior Treble Festival will host guest choirs from Oakville, Mississauga, Toronto, Georgian Bay, and British Columbia in a day of workshops, culminating in a public concert at Calvary Pentecostal Assembly Church

in Cambridge.

Approximately 300 singers aged 10-17, will sing short sets each with their home choir, and join together for four songs as a massed choir. Performances will included music by Joan Szymko, Toronto composer Eleanor Daley, and spiritual songs including “Shine on Me,” for which the festival is named.

The day will conclude with a 7pm concert open to the public. Admission is $15/adult, $10/child at the door.

For more information contact GYS at 519-821-8574.

READERS BOOKS CRYSTALS

LECTURES & DEMONSTRATIONS

Friday:12-9pm Sat.: 11-9pm Sunday: 11-7pm Admission $8

Dante Anesti Rob Thomas

questions of moral certainty.

Guelph Little Theatre has entered this production in the annual Western Ontario Drama League Festival as an “Out of Festival” entry.

Guelph will be hosting the annual festival in March.

Doubt A Parable will be on stage for three weekends starting Jan. 25 through Feb. 9 with two Sunday matinees.

Tickets are $19 per person.

To purchase tickets visit the Guelph Little Theatre’s box office at 176 Morris Street, or phone 519-821-0270 or online at www.guelphlittletheatre. com.

Local teen wins 2012 Royal Conservatory gold medal award for classical guitar

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to the highest of heights and is definitely a show I hope everyone gets a chance to see.”

Directed by L.R. Lindsay, the powerful drama begins with Sister Aloysius, a Bronx school principal who takes matters into her own hands when she suspects the parish priest, Father Flynn, of improper relations with one of the male students.

Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Play, this provocative play brings all the elements invigoratingly together like clockwork.

This gripping story of suspicion cast on a priest’s behavior is less about scandal than it is about fascinatingly nuanced

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013 PAGE FIVE

AND

ENTERTAINMENT Jan. 26 show gathers contemporary roots musicians in songs of Gordon Lightfoot

Local artist featured at Minarovich Gallery ELORA - A new exhibition, Maximum Sun, opens at the Minarovich Gallery in the Elora Centre for the Arts from Jan. 24 to March 17.

Artist David Blatherwick, who is known for his smart, looping abstractions, has sourced his inspiration for the new show from the sun. The exhibition acknowledges the sun as the source of both vision and heat.

It marks a new direction in the artist’s work, exploring a more perceptual basis for his abstract paintings.

These works attest to a powerful lineage of abstract painting in Canada, from Montreal’s Les Plasticiens who purged narrative and painterly

gesture to reveal colour as a potent force in its own right.

This work rebels against that pedigree, however, heading out into the bush like a modernist Tom Thomson.

Blatherwick lives in Elora and teaches at the University of Waterloo. His work has exhibited at the Musée des Beaux Arts du Québec, Stock 20 in Tai Chung, Taiwan, La Cité Internationale in Paris, The Mattress Factory in Pittsburgh, Art Gallery of Windsor, the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa, and is represented by Paul Kuhn Gallery in Calgary and Art Mur in Montreal where he has shown on numerous occasions.

His work has also been

included in many group exhibitions of which the 2009 KWAG Biennale, the 2002 Montreal Biennale, “Video Naive” at Musée des Beaux Arts de Nantes, Metamorphose et Clônage at the Musée D’art Contemporain de Montréal, “The Hand” at the Power Plant in Toronto and “Partly Human” at El Museo de Arte Moderno de Guadalajara are a few.

Maximum Sun will be on exhibit in the Minarovich Gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts, located at 75 Melville Street, from Jan. 24 to March 17. An opening reception will be held Jan. 24 at 7:30pm.

For more information, visit www.eloracentreforthearts.ca.

Guelph Little Theatre Film premiere launches Dancetheatre David Earle’s Portraits project GUELPH - Dancetheatre David Earle (DtDE) will copresent a screening of Vaughn Barclay’s documentary, Heart at Night: David Earle in Guelph.

Framed within the DtDE Studio during the DtDE 2009 Summer Intensive, and through out 2010, the 53-minute documentary film is interwoven with performance and rehearsal footage. It offers insight into Earle’s work as an as artist, teacher and mentor, during the company’s first decade in Guelph.

Earle’s distinguished dance career spanned 47 years, in which he has created more than 150 dance works, earning many honours including the Order of Canada, an Honourary Doctorate of Laws

from Queen’s University, the Clifford E. Lee Award from the Banff Centre, the Dora Mavor Moore Award, and the 2011 Ontario Premier’s Award for Excellence in the Arts. In 2012, he received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal.

The Bookshelf screening celebrates the launch of DtDE’s Portraits, Mirrors and Windows, a two-year collaborative, multi-media project which will engage the legacy of Earle’s work as a bridge of learning between a new generation of dancers and a distinguished roster of senior artists who have shared in the creation and performance of his repertoire.

Portraits, Mirrors, and Windows will evolve as a series of creation, teaching and per-

Presents

formance cycles, culminating in a full-evening performance in September 2014, in celebration of Earle’s 75th birthday.

Heart at Night: David Earle in Guelph was screened at the 2012 Local Focus Festival, winning the documentary award.

The Guelph screening will take place at Bookshelf Cinema, located at 41 Quebec Street, on Jan. 26, at 4pm.

All tickets are $10.00, with a reception to take place in the e-bar afterward. All are welcome.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Ed Video, and to other supporters of the project.

For further information or reservations contact vaughn@ dtde.ca or 519-836-6573.

GUELPH – The music of Gordon Lightfoot provides a soundtrack for life in Canada.

On Jan. 26 Guelph’s River Run Centre will host The Way We Feel: The Songs of Gordon Lightfoot as part of the Macquarie Music Series.

The show begins at 8pm and features almost a dozen of Canada’s finest contemporary roots musicians, interpreting the songs of the legendary Orillia-born troubadour.

The show has sold-out at venues such as Hugh’s Room in Toronto. It has been broadcast on CBC Radio’s Canada Live program and has featured over 50 different contemporary Canadian Roots Music artists since its inception in 2003, including Gordon Lightfoot

himself.

Co-founder of Roots Music Canada, journalist and songwriter David Newland will act as master of ceremonies for this tribute, guiding the audience on a tour of Lightfoot’s storied career.

The impressive lineup of artists includes the critically acclaimed a cappella group Cadence; Juno-nominated jazz songstress Lori Cullen; veteran bluesman Rick Fines; Junonominated folk artist John Wort Hannam; Andy Maize and Josh Finlayson of The Skydiggers; singer-songwriter Jory Nash; Juno-nominated country-folk artist Oh Susanna; and Suzie Vinnick, a Juno-nominated and Maple Blues award-winning singer and guitarist.

Guelph Concert Band presents Symphonic Dances GUELPH - On Feb. 10, the Guelph Concert Band presents a unique afternoon event, “Symphonic Dances” at the River Run Centre.

The one-of-a-kind production, with musical director Colin Clarke, includes special guests: Flying Dance Company, Invoketress Dance Company, Royal City Academy of Irish

Dance, Royal City School of Ballet and Strictly Rhythm.

The production features many dance styles including ballet, belly dance, Bollywood, Irish Step, jazz and more performed to the music of the Guelph Concert Band.

Music will include selections for Bacchanale, West Side Story and Jai Ho.

Admission is $25 for adults, $15 seniors and university students, $5 eyeGO and children.

Tickets are available at the River Run Centre box office or through the band’s website: www.guelphconcertband.ca or info@guelphconcertband.ca Symphonic Dances will be at 3pm on Feb. 10 on the main stage at River Run Centre.

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Guelph Guelph Little Little Theatre Theatre

Presents Presents

The band will include lap steel player and percussionist Christine Bougie; guitarist and songwriter Jason Fowler, known for performing with John McDermott; pianist and guitarist David Matheson, known for playing with Moxy Fruvous and Ron Sexsmith; and legendary bassist David Woodhead.

Tickets start at $35 for adults or $33 for students and seniors; $5 eyeGO tickets are available for high school students with valid ID. $20 uGO tickets are available to university and college students with valid ID. Tickets are available at the River Run box office or online at riverrun.ca.

519-578-1570 t 1-800-265-8977

Guelph Little Theatre

Presents

A brilliant and powerful drama.

usic & Lyrics by David Yazbek

Presents

Book by Terrence McNally

Directed & Choreographed by Sally Nelson

Directed by L.R. Lindsay Musical Director Grace Peters

Produced by Greg Insley

Produced by Lil Milanovich Music Music&&Lyrics Lyricsby byDavid DavidYazbek Yazbek

Book Bookby byTerrence TerrenceMcNally McNally

Directed Directed&&Choreographed ChoreographedbybySally SallyNelson Nelson October 12, 13, 14*, 18, 19, Musical Director Grace Peters Musical Director Grace20, Peters 21*, 25, 26, 27 Produced ProducedbybyLilLilMilanovich Milanovich

Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek

Door/Bar open at 7:00pm - Show time 8:00pm - *Matinee 2:00pm*

Single Tickets $24 - order by phone (519)821-0270

DIANA KRALL

Book by Terrence McNally

Directed & Choreographed by Sally Nelson Musical Director Grace Peters Produced by Lil Milanovich

October October12, 12,13, 13,14*, 14*,18, 18,19, 19,20, 20,21*, 21*,25, 25,26, 26,27 27 or online at www.guelphlittletheatre.com

Door/Bar Door/Baropen openatat7:00pm 7:00pm- Show - Showtime time8:00pm 8:00pm- *Matinee - *Matinee2:00pm* 2:00pm*

January:Single 25,Tickets 26, 27*, $24 Single Tickets $2431 Strong Language and Nudity 519-821-0270 February: 1, 2, 3*, 7, 8, 9

12,online: 13, 14*, 18, 19, 20, 21*, 25, 26, 27 Order by October phone or

- order - orderbybyphone phone(519)821-0270 (519)821-0270 ororonline onlineatatwww.guelphlittletheatre.com www.guelphlittletheatre.com

Feb 1 s 8:00pm

Door/Bar open at 7:00pm - Show time 8:00pm - *Matinee 2:00pm*

Single Tickets $24 - order by phone (519)821-0270 or online at www.guelphlittletheatre.com

Strong Language and Nudity Strong Language and Nudity Guelph Little Theatre, 176 Morris Street (York & Morris), Guelph www.guelphlittletheatre.com

Show time 8pm *matinee 2pm* Strong Language and Nudity Guelph Little single ticket $19 Guelph LittleTheatre, Theatre,176 176Morris MorrisStreet Street(York (York&&Morris), Morris),Guelph Guelph Guelph Little Theatre, 176 Morris Street (York & Morris), Guelph 176 Morris Street, Guelph Recommended for mature audiences.

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PAGE SIX Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

Financial Planning Tax Time New tax credit eases caregiver expenses (NC) - Although being a caregiver to a loved one at home can be a rewarding and enriching experience, it can also be a serious challenge for any family, particularly financially.

In 2007, Statistics Canada estimated that more than 2.7 million Canadians were providing elder care to a friend or family member. Though some caregivers provide all of the support themselves, more than half of them also worked outside the home. To ease some of the financial strain on families, the federal government recently announced a new family caregiver tax credit (cra.gc.ca/ familycaregiver).

Tax time: Ten helpful ways to reduce 2012 bills

The credit provides an additional amount of up to $2,000 for each of the following nonrefundable tax credits: - spouse or common-law partner amount; - amount for an eligible dependant; - amount for children born in 1995 or later; - amount for infirm dependants aged 18 or older; and - caregiver amount.

Although no tax credit can help caregivers be in two places at one time, and it does little to ease the demands of caring for a loved one on a day-to-day basis, still the tax breaks are welcome and available.

- www.newscanada.com

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individual’s situation.

The technically correct answer is it comes down to comparing your marginal tax rate today versus your estimated marginal tax rate in the future.

The ideal scenario for an RRSP is that you contribute to your RRSP when you are in one of the top tax brackets and receive a large tax refund at the time of contribution.

Money grows tax deferred inside the RRSP and when you take withdrawals in the future you are in a lower tax bracket.

But if you are not in the top tax bracket, TFSAs may be a better option. For 2013, most people will have total TFSA contribution room of $25,500.

When choosing between RRSPs or TFSAs my over generalized recommendations would be, if you are in the lowest tax bracket (for 2013 income below $43,561), maximize your TFSA contribution first because at this level of income your marginal tax rate is approximately 20%.

Chances are when you make withdrawals from your

RRSPs you may be in a higher tax bracket and the RRSPs may affect your ability to claim income tested government benefits (Trillium benefit, HST credit, GIS, etc.) or could cause OAS claw back.

If you are in the upper tier tax brackets (for 2013 income above $87,124 and $135,055), maximize your RRSP savings first because at this level of income your marginal tax rate is 43% to 46%.

If your income is in the middle tax brackets, the choice is more an individual choice and neither is a bad choice.

Choosing to invest in a TFSA or an RRSP is almost always preferable to investing in a non-registered savings account. The only possible exemption is where you earn active business income through a corporation which is taxed at the small business rates.

A non-registered corporate investment account may be the preferred option in such cases.

Carol Brubacher is a chartered accountant with Collins Barrow Chartered Accountants in Elora.

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tered retirement savings plans (RRSP), registered education savings plans (RESP), registered disability savings plans (RDSP) and tax free savings accounts (TFSA).

In a perfect world you would like to maximize your contributions to all registered plans, however for most of us this is not realistic. So how do you choose where to save your money?

I am a fan of “free money”, so my advice would be to contribute first to the savings plans that offer government grants and to maximize those grants.

For parents with a disabled child, the federal government will provide matching grants of 100, 200 or 300 percent of contributions to a RDSP, depending on the family’s net income and amount contributed.

RESPs help parents save for the children’s post secondary education by providing government grants, matching funds and tax deferred savings.

Next is the choice for retirement savings, RRSP or TFSA? Unfortunately there is no easy answer; it depends on each

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Public transit amount If you are a public transit rider, you may be able to save by claiming the cost of your transit passes. You can get up to 15% of the amount claimed.

Seniors If you receive income from a pension, you can split up to 50% of eligible pension income with your spouse or common-

law partner to reduce the taxes that you pay. You may also be eligible to claim the age amount, medical expenses, and the disability amount.

Home buyers You may be able to claim up to $5,000 if you bought your first home in 2012.

Hiring an apprentice Did your business employ an apprentice?

An employer who paid a salary to an employee registered in a prescribed trade in the first two years of his or her apprenticeship contract qualifies for a non-refundable tax credit.

Make filing your taxes this spring even easier by doing it online. It’s fast, secure and you may be able to use cost-free filing software.

The Canada Revenue Agency offers step-by-step instructions at www.cra.gc.ca/ getready.

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Donations of cash, goods, land, or listed securities made to a registered charity or other qualified done may be eligible for a tax credit.

Parents All those mornings spent at the hockey rink and afternoons spent at the ballet studio can mean savings—with the children’s fitness and arts tax credits. Child care is also deductible, so gather up your receipts.

Family caregivers If you have a dependant with a physical or mental impairment, you could be eligible for an additional $2,000 this year with the new family caregiver amount.

Student Were you a student in 2012? You may be able to claim tuition, textbook, and education amounts, as well as moving expenses if applicable.

And if you’ve recently graduated, you can claim the interest you paid on your student loan.

How to navigate the registered savings options

GICs . RRSPs . RRIFs . EducaƟon Savings Plans Daily Interest Savings . Mortgages . Life/Travel Insurance Phone: 519-638-3328 Toll Free: 877-437-7354 www.hesselinkjack.ca

(NC) - The days are starting to get longer, and you can feel that spring is right around the corner.

With spring, of course, comes tax-filing season, so as “filing taxes” joins “spring cleaning” on your to-do list, here are 10 ways to save you money - and even land you that refund you’ve been hoping for.

Tax-free savings account Using a TFSA is a smart way to save on tax.

Generally, the interest, dividends, and capital gains earned on investments in a TFSA are not taxed—not when they are held in the account or when they are withdrawn.

Registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) Pay less tax and save for your retirement at the same time. Any income that you earn in your RRSP is usually free from tax as long as the funds stay in the plan.

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013 PAGE SEVEN

Financial Planning Tax Time Company survey shows Canadian investors are optimistic about the future WATERLOO – Results from the latest Manulife financial investor sentiment index released last week indicate that while Canadian investors appear to have ongoing concerns about the economic environment, they are taking deliberate steps to achieve their financial goals and they remain optimistic about their future financial position.

“The good news is that Canadians remain optimistic about their financial future and they are taking some very simple, but concrete steps to continue making progress on their financial goals,” said Paul Lorentz, executive vice president, investment and insurance solutions.

“Canadians continue to be cautious about investing and with global economic challenges continuing to dominate our headlines, this is a trend

we’ve been seeing for several quarters.”

Overall, the Manulife financial investor sentiment index, a survey that measures Canadians’ perceptions about whether or not this is a good time to invest in a variety of savings and investment vehicles, showed that investor sentiment in Canada softened slightly through the second half of 2012.

Results from the second half of the year show the index is now sitting at plus-20, down four points from July (+24) and down six points from December 2011 (+26).

“Canadians are now more focused on paying down debt which may be causing them to be more cautious about investing,” added Lorentz. “The slight decline returns the index to the December 2010 level, however it is positive to see

that investor sentiment continues to remain significantly stronger than during the height of the economic downturn in 2008-09.”

Interest in investment and savings vehicles remains flat, indicating a continued cautious outlook toward investing.

However, Canadians say they are optimistic about their financial future.

Currently almost eight in ten Canadians feel their financial position is either the same (43 per cent) or better (35%) than it was two years ago. Optimism for the future is higher with more than 90% of Canadians indicating that two years from now their financial position will be either the same (39%) or better (53%) than today.

Consistent with this optimistic view, 77% of Canadians say they are either on track

when it comes to their current financial goals (40%), or they are behind but are likely to catch up (37%).

The index reveals that overall, Canadians are heeding the advice of the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Bank of Canada to reduce consumer debt and they are taking a more conservative approach to help achieve their financial goals.

Nearly 50% of Canadians indicate they have taken steps to reduce their spending, with 31% saying they are saving money on a regular basis.

Other ways that Canadians are taking greater control of their personal finances include: talking to a professional financial advisor for advice (22%), working more or increasing their income (19%), calculating how much they need to achieve their financial goal (17%), and

Telltale signs you may be heading for substantial debt (MNW) - Many men and women with heavy debt are vague when asked to describe how they got there, often expressing a notion that the debt seemingly piled up overnight.

Though it’s possible to incur a substantial amount of debt in a short period of time, many debtors witness their financial pitfalls gradually increase, with interest rates adding up over time.

Men and women who know their debts didn’t occur overnight may have missed the warning signs that they were heading for financial trouble.

The following are a few signs that your problem with debt might be on the way to spiraling out of control.

Minimum payments Every credit card statement includes the outstanding balance as well as the minimum payment due.

In addition, statements now include a forecast of when the debt will be paid in full if consumers make only the minimum payment, and those with substantial debt may notice that they won’t be paying off their debts any time soon if they only make the minimum payment. Men and women who can only afford to make the minimum payment on an outstanding balance should recognize that as a warning sign that they are carrying too much debt and should begin an anal-

ysis of their finances immediately before that debt gets out of control.

Frequent use of credit Using credit wisely is a great way to build your financial reputation. But using credit poorly can do significant harm to your reputation, affecting your ability to rent an apartment, finance a vehicle or secure a home loan, among other things.

If you find yourself using credit to make purchases you should be making with cash (or a debit card), such as fast food, your morning coffee or monthly utilities, then you’re likely setting yourself up for significant debt in the future.

Such purchases have a way of adding up. Before you know it your balance could be higher than you had anticipated and you might have already used your cash supply for other purchases you assumed were affordable.

Credit cards should not be used to pay for life’s necessities or every day expenditures, as doing so only increases your cost of living when you factor in the interest you will have to pay when using credit to pay for these necessities.

Routinely check balances Though it’s important to stay on top of your finances, there’s a difference between checking your accounts for discrepancies and checking to determine your available bal-

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If you’re not capable of saving, then your debts are likely exceeding your income, which puts you on a crash course with substantial debt.

If you’re not saving money but you are still piling up debts with purchases made on credit, expect to face some serious consequences down the road.

Few people can say they have never experienced a problem with debt at least once in their lives.

But those who often overcome issues with debt are those who recognized some telltale warning signs that a storm of debt was coming and acted quickly to keep those debts from becoming overwhelming.

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“Trimming household budgets, paying down debt and saving for a rainy day are all important steps that will put Canadians in a better financial situation for their future.”

The December survey included 2,126 participants over 25.

Spenders and savers can reach financial bliss (NC) - When it comes to romantic relationships, the traditional thought is that opposites attract.

However, personal finance experts say that couples with different attitudes towards money need to find a middle ground to achieve financial bliss.

“Many couples include a “spender” and a “saver”. The spender is the one who sees a sale and thinks they can buy more; whereas the saver thinks they will save more,” said Wade Stayzer, vice president of retail and investment services at Meridian, Ontario’s largest credit union.

“While there appears to be a big divide between the spender and the saver mind-sets, these couples can still be successful with their family finances if they find and agree to ways that will align their approaches to money. Financial planning is the key.”

Meridian offers the following advice on how spender/ saver couples can get on the path to financial success.

Sort out financial differences Talk, don’t fight, about your

different approaches to money.

Figure out how much you spend and where the money is going. Acknowledge who the spender is and who the saver is, and agree to compromise.

Get involved Many times, there is one member of the family who regularly handles the finances.

Having both partners involved can be a major breakthrough and also makes sure the responsibility is being shared.

Set goals Find common goals and discuss what your individual goals are. Whether it’s getting out of debt, or saving for retirement and the children’s education, setting goals will help you prioritize and focus on what’s really important.

Get a personalized financial plan To meet your established goals, you need to set up a budget and a financial plan.

Consider seeking expert advice. Working with a trusted financial advisor to develop a personalized financial plan is like driving with a GPS system – you’ll reach your end goal faster and with less stress.

-www.newscanada.com

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ances.

The former is responsible, while the latter suggests you may have a problem with impulse spending. If you don’t have a general idea of what the balances on your credit cards are and you find yourself frequently checking those balances before making purchases, then consider that a warning that you don’t have a handle on your debt.

No savings One of the most telltale signs that you might be carrying substantial debt, which, thanks to interest charges will likely only increase, is a lack of savings. You should be saving money every pay period.

saving ‘found’ money like bonuses and tax refunds (14%).

“It appears that Canadians are taking to heart the importance of having a balanced financial plan in place that includes a healthy focus on debt reduction and saving,” said Lorentz.

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PAGE EIGHT Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

Financial Planning Tax Time How to establish a financial budget to set a positive course for the new year (MNS) - Resolutions abound come the dawn of a new year. Fitness and finances tend to dominate many people’s resolutions, with the goals of shedding a few pounds and saving more money both being popular resolutions.

For those whose focus will be on finances in the coming year, establishing a budget for the new year is a good place to start.

The following are a few tips for men and women that should help them plan budgets for the new year and reach their financial goals over the next 12

months.

Start with your income How much money is being brought into the household will go a long way toward determining your budget.

The first month of the year, when people will receive their earnings statements from the previous year, should provide a clear-cut picture of just how much income the household is generating.

Once you have that information, you can begin to establish a budget.

Make a list of your bills Knowing what’s coming in

is important when establishing a budget, but so is having a firm grasp of what’s going out.

Make a list of all of your monthly expenses, from the big ones like a mortgage payment to the smaller ones like how much you spend on a cup of coffee each day.

When making a list of these expenses, make note of the day bills are due each month. This can help you determine which weeks of each month you’ll be able to save more money and which weeks you will need to tighten your belt and pay existing bills. Such knowledge will

An RRSP Top 10 checklist for 2013

by Dan Allen Thinking about this year’s RRSP contributions need not be daunting. Follow this top 10 checklist for guidelines for 2013.

1. Seek out an accredited financial advisor to help you with your retirement saving plan. It will make the rest of these tips much easier.

Understanding how Canada Pension, Old Age Security, company pensions, tax free savings accounts (TFSA) and RRSPs all work together is reason enough to find an expert.

More importantly, a good retirement nest egg could be two to three times the value of your home by retirement. It is not a “do-it-yourself” project.

2. If you haven’t started saving, start now. It’s never too late to invest in your future.

3. Invest early and often to take advantage of the “time value of money”.

Because your investments are allowed to compound taxfree within your RRSP and

TFSA, there are significant advantages to investing on a monthly basis rather than a lump sum annually.

4. Use professional money management for investment expertise. For most of us, it means using mutual funds or guaranteed investment funds managed by the top investment managers in Canada.

5. Know what you need to save each year/month to reach your retirement goals.

Your financial advisor can help you determine the amount and whether RRSPs, tax free savings accounts or a non-registered portfolio best suits your retirement plan.

6. Don’t be too cautious and choose low risk investments only. And don’t chase last year’s highest performing asset class, either. It’s very rare that they repeat.

A well-balanced, diversified portfolio will include a variety of asset classes to minimize risk and maximize returns.

7. Think long term - five, 10, even 20 years - instead of letting short-term market volatility sway your investment decisions. History shows, the longer the term, the more consistent the results.

8. Take advantage of dollar cost averaging by using a pre-authorized chequing (PAC) plan that fits your budget and spreads your purchases over time.

PACs also help moderate portfolio volatility and improve long term returns.

9. If you don’t have the cash available, consider moving non-registered investments to your RRSP. 10. Don’t wait until the last minute to meet the March 1, 2013 deadline for 2012 contributions.

Investment decisions shouldn’t be rushed.

Dan Allen - CFP, MFA, EPC - is a retirement income and protection specialist at the Heritage Group, located in Guelph.

help you establish a budget.

Make a list of anticipated expenses Some expenses are there every month. Others are those you expect, such as home improvement projects you plan to finance in the coming year.

Make a list of these anticipated expenses. This may involve taking some inventory of things around the house, such as any appliances that may be on their last legs, bigger issues like a roof that may need to be replaced or a bathroom you finally plan to remodel.

Once you have compiled this list, research how much each project figures to cost you. This should give you an idea of how realistic each project is for you, and whether or not you will be able to tackle multiple projects in the coming year.

Don’t forget about debts Many people plan a budget more to get out of debt than to save for a rainy day.

When establishing a budget for the year ahead, calculate how much debt you’re currently carrying.

Though you can do so if you prefer, it’s best to exclude existing installment loans like a mortgage or a car note from your list of debts. Though those can be considered money you owe, they are more in line with the monthly expenses you need to live than credit card debts you simply need to get rid of.

If your debt is considerable or even small, see if there is anything you can remove from your list of monthly expenses (i.e., cable television or streaming video subscription) so you can devote that money to eliminating your debt.

In addition, those with considerable debt should prioritize

Not every Bill Gates needs to worry about retirement. But most do.

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ending that debt over projects you want to tackle that aren’t exactly necessities. For example, if your kitchen is outdated but still safe and functional, postpone the kitchen remodeluntil you have eliminated your debt.

Decide where you can cut costs Chances are you’re establishing a budget because you have a specific financial goal in mind or because you examined last year’s financial statements and realized you fell short of your savings goals.

So you likely know you need to cut some costs, and part of establishing a budget is deciding which costs you can cut.

Some of the more common ways people cut costs at the dawn of a new year includes deciding to dine out less, canceling a cable television subscription or removing premium channels from their package, driving less to save money on fuel and forgoing store-bought

coffee for java they make at home.

Each of these budget cuts can lead to substantial savings over a full year, and none of them are life-altering to the point of lowering a person’s quality of life.

Include savings into your budget Living on a budget is not always easy, especially for those people who are not used to doing so.

When establishing your budget, include weekly, biweekly and monthly savings goals into the budget. If you stick to this plan, you will have something to show for your financial discipline at the end of each month, and light at the end of the tunnel can be a motivating factor as you adapt to living on a budget.

The new year is a great time to turn over a new financial leaf, and establishing a budget is a great way to get started on a path to a brighter financial future.

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For more information,Dan contact: Allen, CFP, MFA, EPC

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John Williams – XYZ Financial The Heritage Group 376 Rivercrest Road Dealer Private Financial Services Inc. Bigsby, Ontario L5M 2Y6 logo here Phone: (519) 822-3887 ext.

109 Tel: (000) 000-0000 dan@theheritagegroup.ca Email: jwilliams@xyzfinancial.com

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013 PAGE NINE

Rural Life

Agricultural Information Contact Centre | 1-877-424-1300 | www.ontario.ca/omafra

The OMAFRA Report A weekly report prepared by the staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). If you require further information, regarding this report, call the Elora Resource Centre at 519-846-0941. Office hours: 8:30am to 5pm.

For technical information, call the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or visit the OMAFRA website: www. ontario.ca/omafra.

GRAIN DRYING AND STORAGE WORKSHOPS Grain drying and storage workshops are again being offered this year to serve farmers’ needs. These workshops are for you; if you want a better understanding of grain drying and storage principles, if you are planning a new system, if you are expanding your system, or are considering modifications to your grain handling system. Come and get your questions answered.

Free discussion is encouraged throughout the workshops which results in a good exchange of information among participants. The topics covered in the workshops will include the following: 1) How Grain Dries 2) Types of Drying Systems 3) Dryeration/Cooleration 4) Fan Sizing & Selection 5) Aeration to Keep Grain in Condition 6) Locating Drying & Storage Systems 7) Traffic Flow Considerations 8) Reducing Drying Energy Workshop: 9am - 4pm - Instructor: Helmut Spieser, Engineer, OMAFRA, 519-674-1618.

Spaces are limited. Register early $30 (lunch included).

To Register Call Ag Business Centre, University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus: 1-866-222-9682.

MARKDALE: Feb. 27 - Grey Ag Services, 206 Toronto St. S.

LISTOWEL: March 27 - Kin Station, 555 Binning St. W. ENVIRONMENTAL FARM PLAN

by John C. Benham This is the last call for the Wednesday, Jan. 30 EFP workshop to be completed Wednesday, Feb. 6 to be held in the Elora OMAFRA meeting room at 10am till 3:30pm. Lunch and refreshments are sponsored by the Wellington Stewardship Council. Keep in mind a completed Third Edition EFP is required to qualify for most Cost Share programs.

So many farmers have told me that they are now much more aware of the environment on their farm because of the EFP. They now realize that by doing some things differently their farm is a much more healthy location for their family. Email: wellington@ ontariosoilcrop.org or telephone 519-846-3394 to sign up or to ask questions.

2013 FIELD CROP BUDGETS NOW AVAILABLE Crop budgets are a management tool to estimate costs and evaluate cropping alternatives.

2013 Field Crop Budgets PDF All Ontario publications can be ordered through ServiceOntario - online at www.publications.serviceontario.ca. Telephone the ServiceOntario Contact Centre - Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm - 416-326-5300 or 1-800-668-9938; in person at ServiceOntario Centres throughout the province, or your local Resource Centre.

COMING EVENTS: Jan. 25 - Fergus Agricultural Society Annual Meeting to be held at Barrie Hill United Church. For further information or to RSVP, call Wendy Whittaker at 519-856-9621.

Jan. 29 - Farm and Home Safety Annual Meeting and Banquet, 7pm, Alma Bible Church. A roast beef dinner will be served by the

members of the church. Tickets are $15 each.

Jan. 30 - Grower Pesticide Safety Course in Elmira, 8:45am. To register, phone Farmers Plus at 519-669-5475.

Jan. 31 - Feb. 3 - 32nd Annual Guelph Organic Conference and Expo. Full details available at: www.guelphorganicconf.ca/.

Jan. 31 - Dairy Housing Design Seminar – Tie Stall Housing – Milverton Recreation Complex. To register by phone, call the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or 519826-4047.

Feb. 1 - Grower Pesticide Safety Exam, Guelph at 10am. To register, phone Woodrill Farms at 519-821-1018.

Feb. 5-6 - 0SCIA Annual Meeting, Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Conference Centre, 591 Wellington Road South, London. Registration: Amber Van De Peer 1-800-265-9751, ext 63152 or email: amber.vandepeer@ontariosoilcrop.org or www.oscia.cloverpad. org.

Feb. 5-7 - Canadian International Farm Show, Toronto. Check: www.canadianfarmshow.ca.

Feb. 6-7 - Canadian Dairy Xpo, Canada’s National Dairy Showcase, Stratford Rotary Complex, Stratford, Ontario. Check the website: www.dairyxpo.ca.

Feb. 13 - Grower Pesticide Safety Course at 9am and Separate Exam 2:45pm, Harriston. To register, phone Cargill at 519-3382015.

Feb. 13 - Regional Poultry Producer Update, Mt. Forest, ON. Preregistration cost is $30/person, #35 at the door. Program agenda, venue information and registration details available at: www.poultryindustrycouncil.ca/events/producerupdates.php.

Feb. 20 - Grower Pesticide Safety Course at 8:45am and Separate Exam at 3pm, at Elora OMAFRA. To register, phone the Ontario Pesticide Education Program at 1-800-652-8573.

OPINION: OFA says ecological goods and services give more carrot, less stick

By Don McCabe, Vice president, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Ontario farms provide significant ecological benefits, often through the adoption of beneficial management practices (BMPs).

There’s increasing discussion among governments around the world as to how these contributions can be recognized given that markets pay farmers for their farm production only.

The fact farmers are not paid for providing these environmental benefits is referred to as a market failure.

In the production of food and fibre, farmers manage land

and resources to grow products sustainably. In doing so, they depend on the ecological goods including healthy soil and clean water.

The environment provides to produce marketable agricultural products.

At the same time, farmers have an opportunity to manage ecological services like wildlife habitat, air and water filtration, scenic views as a public good in the course of sound farm stewardship practices – but these efforts are rarely captured in the price farmers receive for their products.

By adopting beneficial management practices, farmers have an opportunity to produce

the safe and nutritious food the public consumes while reducing the impact on ecological goods, or even enhancing existing ecological services.

It has always been difficult to put a dollar value on purifying air and water or providing wildlife habitat.

The remedy may be in the various forms of payment for environmental goods and services that are intended to incentivise farmers and other land stewards to adopt BMPs for the public benefits.

This is not “money for nothing”.

Any payment should require a tangible change with a measureable and verifiable

benefit that requires ongoing management and supervision.

The difficulty, however, is determining the appropriate balance between incentives and regulations, which are responsible to both farmers – the benefit producers and tax-payers – the benefit receivers.

Ontario farmers have had the benefit of an Environmental Farm Plan Program for the past 20 years that has enabled them to determine how they could reduce the environmental impact associated with agricultural production practices.

Other programs have provided funding assistance for the adoption of BMPs to address identified concerns.

These programs have benefitted from federal, provincial and municipal funding and do fit the EG&S concept.

A recent report by the MacDonald-Laurier Institute, The Greening of Canadian Agriculture, that details some of the policy challenges and opportunities in EG&S, is welcomed.

It helps to reopen the discussion on EG&S and makes some valuable recommendations In general, farmers want a fair system of incentive-based policies that recognize the significant environmental contributions that result from the adoption of beneficial manage-

ment practices on the farm.

While the OFA recognizes that government must be cautious with the dispersal of public funds, we believe an investment in an EG&S program would be defensible for activities that deliver validated and measurable ecological benefits.

The OFA encourages Ontario’s government to take a serious look at EG&S and work with farm organizations to develop pilot projects to investigate the many unanswered questions associated with offering Ontario farmers ongoing payments for the provision of ecological goods and services deemed to be of value to all society.

Government helps Ontario farmers find sustainable water management solutions GUELPH - The federal and provincial government of Ontario are making a joint investment to help producers adopt innovative and sustainable on-farm water management practices.

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ted McMeekin recently announced a new initiative that will focus on finding innovative technologies and solutions to water conservation and water use efficiency problems for Ontario farmers.

“Our government is committed to helping farmers adapt to current economic challenges and to make their businesses

more efficient to boost our economy, now and for the long term,” said Ritz.

“This Economic Action Plan investment will help Ontario farmers make better use of available water supplies and irrigation systems, and ultimately lower their costs.”

McMeekin said, “Managing water more effectively is an important part of mitigating and adapting to climate change and the extreme weather it brings.”

“Working together to bring innovative practices and technologies to farmers is one of the best paths to a more productive, competitive, and sustainable future for the entire

industry.”

This joint Canada-Ontario investment of up to $1.5 million will go toward the Water Resource Adaptation and Management Initiative.

Up to $1 million will be available for projects through Farm & Food Care Ontario on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Applications are now available on the Farm and Food Care Ontario website (http:// farmfoodcare.org).

The balance of the funding will be used to draft guidelines for drainage design, benchmarking studies on water use/ water efficiency, and inform-

ing farmers about best management practices on water efficiency.

The call for proposals will include the following two components: - Projects or research studies on innovative water conservation and efficiency equipment, technologies, and practices.

These projects could include the use of innovative equipment for irrigation, recommendations for water conservation in livestock operations, good soil management practices, and developing drought-tolerant crops; and - The communication of project results through work-

shops, presentations, outreach, and education materials designed to highlight technologies related to water conservation.

“Farm & Food Care Ontario is pleased to be involved in this environmental initiative on behalf of our members,” said John Maaskant, chair, Farm and Food Care Ontario.

“This initiative will provide practical examples of water conservation technologies that can help farmers adopt their water use practices to the impacts of climate change.

Given that 2012 was a dry year across most of the province, this project has even greater relevance to Ontario

farmers.”

The federal portion of this investment is being made through the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, part of the Economic Action Plan.

The five-year (2009–14) program was created to help reduce production costs, improve environmental sustainability, promote innovation, and respond to emerging opportunities and market challenges for the sector.

For more information about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan. gc.ca.

Garden expert Mark Cullen comes to Guelph Organic Conference Feb. 2 GUELPH - Canadian bestselling author, media personality and gardening guru Mark Cullen will be joining the midwinter pilgrimage to the 2013 Guelph Organic Conference this year.

Celebrating its 32nd year, the 2013 event includes international speakers, seminars and introduction workshops on key topics including: permaculture, organic production/ certification, changing climates, earth changes, organic orchards, small equipment & pollination themes.

The 2013 conference runs from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3 at the University of Guelph. From producer to consumer, the workshops offer something for everyone.

In his role as Home Hardware’s gardening expert, Cullen will be visiting to show his support for the Clear-Flow Garden Hose, a three-season water hose that will soon be featured in the company’s lineup of gardening products.

Roger Walsh is an organic farmer and inventor of the hose, a solution for those con-

sumers concerned about water quality.

“The polyurethane used in its construction will not leach chemicals into the water,” Walsh said. “The hose is also clear, so UV rays can penetrate it, taking care of any bacterial growth that can build up inside.

There’s no odour, it doesn’t off-gas, it’s recyclable, and the materials we use are certified

by NSF International,” he adds.

The conference is a gathering of people who share a concern over the health impact of conventionally produced food

and it’s impact on the economy and the environment.

With the rise in food-safety awareness, Canadians are looking for food that is produced without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, additives, preservatives, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and irradiation.

The Organic Expo/Tasting Fair runs Feb. 2, from 9am to 5:30pm and Feb. 3 from 10am to 4:30pm at the Guelph University Centre. It features more than 150 exhibitors. The fair is a free event, open to

the public. For more information on the workshops or expo

events, visit www.guelphorganicconf.ca.

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SPORTS

PAGE TEN Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

Norwell Redmen go undefeated to win tournament in Walkerton WALKERTON - The Norwell Redmen hockey team started 2013 with an impressive performance at the Sacred Heart tournament in Walkerton on Jan. 9.

The Redmen reeled off four consecutive wins to capture the championship banner.

The tournament began on Tuesday with a 3-2 Redmen victory over St. Mary’s from Owen Sound, with the team firing 33 shots on the opposing goal. After giving up the opening goal, Norwell responded with a goal by Brenden Aitken from Jamie Hoelscher. Chayse Herrfort then gave the Redmen the lead on a three-way passing play with assists going to Aitken and Cole Leslie. After St. Mary’s tied the score, Devin Williams tallied the winner in the third period.

Next up for the Redmen was Centre Wellington, from Fergus, one of the stronger teams in District 10. The game turned into a tight, defensive battle with the Redmen emerging with a 2-1 victory.

Cody Ferguson unassisted, and Leslie from Aitken accounted for the scoring while Adam Kalbfleisch was excellent in goal for Norwell.

Tourney champs - The Norwell Redmen won the championship at a hockey tournament hosted by Sacred Heart High School in Walkerton Jan. 9. Team members include, from left: front, Josh Hoffele, Brendon Aitken; centre, Adam Kalbfleisch, Ryley Cribbin, Zach Franklin, Jamie Hoelscher, Dustin Bults, Derek Williams, Chayse Herrfort, Cole Wardlaw; back, coach Mark Israel, Cody Ferguson, Devin Williams, Cole Leslie, Curtis Shorey, Jason Joostema, Brad Binkle, coach Ian Strachan, Josh Kueneman, Greg Allen, Logan Hoelscher, Cameron Charlebois and coach Steve Miller. submitted photo On Wednesday morning the Redmen pounded John Diefenbaker from Hanover 6-0, scoring five powerplay

goals, to earn a berth in the final. Goal scorers were Leslie with two and Logan Hoelscher, Williams, Jason Joostema and

Greg Allen adding singles.

Assists went to Josh Hoffele (3), Herrfort (2), Williams (2), and Allen. Cole Wardlaw made

21 saves for the shutout.

The championship final placed Norwell against rival Bishop MacDonell from

Guelph. These teams have battled many times in championship games over the past decade.

This was Norwell’s day for a 2-1 victory. The Redmen scored late in the second as time expired on a goal by Allen, from Williams and Leslie. Early in the third period, Aitken finished off a great three-on-two rush, with assists going to Leslie and Herrfort.

Despite giving up a late power-play goal, Kalbfleisch and excellent team defensive play shut the door, giving the Redmen the championship.

Overall the Redmen have compiled a season record of 14-3-2 and have established themselves as one of the teams to beat heading into the final stages of the season. The team has run its regulation unbeaten streak to 14 games, one of the longest in team history.

“Congratulations to the players for a job well done and for continuing to positively represent their school, community and families,” said coach Ian Strachan.

The final regular season home game is Feb. 6 versus Bishop MacDonell at 3pm in Palmerston.

Simpson, Adams rinks win at Arthur Curling Club’s Farmers Bonspiel

Bonspiel winners - The Arthur Curling Club’s Farmers Bonspiel was held recently. The winners of the late draw, sponsored by Burnette Farms - Pioneer Seeds, was a team from Orangeville. From left: sponsor Alex Burnett with team skip Doug Simpson, vice Lloyd McMillan, second Ted Woods and lead Lee Woods.

Bringing home a win - The Centre Wellington Fusion local league team took home a win from the Clifford Novice Local League tournament recently, wining the championship game against Minto 6-1.

submitted photo

Early draw winners - The early draw winners, sponsored by Stoltz Sales and Service, at the Arthur Curling Club’s Farmers Bonspiel, were, from left: skip Doug Adams, vice John Ross, Second Brian Henry and lead Arden Edmonson.

submitted photos

Gold winners - The Elora-Fergus U-19B Ringette team recently won gold in the Burlington Tournament.

The team defeated Kingston 6-5 and Burlington 9-7 before losing to Mississauga 8-7. The team went submitted photo on to the finals, defeating Kingston 1-0 for the gold win.

Inside Wellington - Second Section of Wellington The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, May25, 6, 2011 Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Advertiser, Friday, January 2013 PAGE PAGE FIFTEEN ELEVEN

FROM PAGE TWO Mary Hill KofC and CWL Valentine’s Supper. Maryhill Heritage Community Centre, 5:30 and 7pm. Door prizes. Advance tickets only. $15 per person, $8 children 6-11. Contact Mike at 519-6483394 for tickets. *** Erin Legion Jam Nites. 7:30pm. The first of monthly Jam nights will be held on Saturday night. Everyone is welcome to participate. $5 entry.

sun. feb. 10

Listowel Legion Jamboree. 1-5pm. Roast beef dinner will be available. 519-291-2569. *** Sundays @ 3 Concert Series, 3pm. “Out Of Africa”. This concert is the culmination of an intense weekend workshop discovering African music. Joining the concert will be storyteller Sya Van Geest. Admission at the door: $20, Students $5. Dublin Street United Church, 68 Suffolk St. W. Guelph 519-821-0610. *** Erin Legion Annual Seniors Dinner. Doors open 3pm for socializing. Dinner 5pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. *** Euchre party at Sacred Heart Church, Kenilworth. 7pm. Admission $2.50, penny table, 25/25/50 draw, light lunch. Everyone welcome.

Tues. feb. 12

Fergus-Elora Rotary is pleased to have Rob Black speaking on 100 years of 4H. Please visit www.ferguselorarotary.com. *** Pancake Supper, Melville United Church (St. Andrew & Tower St, Fergus), 5-7pm. Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, dessert, drinks, fruit. Freewill donation. All welcome. 519-843-1781. *** Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper at Mount Forest United Church, Fellowship Hall, 175 Queen St. East. Pancakes from scratch, ham, sausage, tea, coffee, juice, dessert. Tickets at door. Accessible entrance off parking lot. For info. call. 519-323-1910. *** Award winning art quilter Renske Helmuth will be the speaker at the meeting of the Royal City Quilter’s Guild. 7pm at Three Willows United Church, 577 Willow Road, Guelph. Doors open at 7pm. Guest fee is $5. For more information call 519-821-7891 *** Normanby Pancake & Sausage Supper. St. Paul’s Normanby Lutheran Church Auditorium. 5-7pm. Wheel Chair Accessible.

Adults - $8; age 8 -12 - $4; Under 8 - free. Information - 519799-5346. *** Pancake Supper. St. Paul’s Anglican Church Mount Forest. 5-7pm. $7 per person. Pure maple syrup. *** Pancake Dinner at St. James Church, Fergus. 5-7pm includes sausages, toppings and dessert. Adults $10, Children (10 and under) $5. Tickets at the door.

United Church, Clifford.

THURS. feb. 14

Euchre. St. Mary Family Centre. Mount Forest. 7:30pm $2.50 includes light lunch and prizes.

Sat. feb. 16

Country Dance. Alma Community Centre, 8pm. $10. Dance to Tri Country Classic Country. *** Adult/Senior Ice Skating. 8-9:50pm. Exhibition Park Arena, Guelph. Cost $7 for members, $8 for non-members. Contact 519836-1015. *** Annual Pancake Breakfast Food Bank Fundraiser is at Sam’s Family Burgers, 8-10am. It’s either a food bank donation, or $3 per plate of pancakes, comes with either coffee or juice, a side of bacon is $1 (or another food bank donation). *** Woolwich Community Lions Club “Margaritaville” Warm up the Winter Dance, Lions Hall Elmira. 8pm-1am. $15 per person, 19+ years. DJ, Lunch provided. Proceeds to community betterment.

Tickets available from Lions members. *** Valentine Soup & Sandwich Luncheon & Bake Sale. Knox-Calvin Church, Harriston, Elora St. 11am-1pm. $8.

Sun. feb. 17

Sunday Morning Community Family Breakfast at Fergus Legion, 500 Blair Street. 9-11:30am. $6 per person, $3 kids under 10.

Everyone is welcome. *** Knox Presbyterian Church, Palmerston presents “Heading Home Quartet” 7pm. Traditional Gospel Music with strong messages and powerful music. Free will offering. Refreshments after concert.

For info. call 519-343-3805. *** Family Day Party. Featuring Bruce Hare. Picnic In The Winter at the Red Chevron Club, Guelph.

Sudoku

Tues. feb. 19

Fergus-Elora Rotary is pleased to have Bryan Hayter speaking on RWDI’s National & International Specialized Engineering. Please visit www.ferguselorarotary.com. *** Guelph Twp. Horticultural Society shows the results of its Photographic Competition. 7:30pm. Public welcome. Door Prizes, Refreshments. 7368 Wellington Rd. 30 - Marden Community Centre/Library building. Phone 519-822-5289. *** Cancer Support Group, Upper Grand, 753 Tower, St, S. Fergus.

Every 3rd Tuesday of each month, 10am-12noon. Lunch Out First Wednesday of each month. Wheelchair accessible. Please contact Judy D. 519-843-3947 Ext: 100 or Joyce B. 519-843-3213.

Wed. feb. 13

Rockwood & District Lioness Euchre, Rockmosa Community Centre, Rockwood at 7pm. $5 a person. Lunch & prizes to follow. *** Heart & Stroke Luncheon. 11:30-1:30pm, $8 per person Knox

we want your

sports whatever the season. whatever the sport. send us your photos, story ideas or scores. it’s your sport. it’s your newspaper. submit online: www.wellingtonadvertiser.com

Generations reunite - Over the Christmas holidays five generations of the Richards family of Wellington County gathered together. In back, from left: grandparents Lisa and Mark Richards, of Arthur. In centre, from left: Kayla Porter, of Arthur, holds Grayson William Richards, next to great-great-grandmother Nell Cunningham, Palmerston, great grandparents Gail and Hans Rehling of Palmerston and, in front, Stephen Richards of Arthur.

-submitted photo

or send to news@wellingtonadvertiser.com

Here’s How it Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Horoscopes - For the Fifth week of January ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you have been living life in the fast lane, but this week you may need to apply the brakes. If you’re not careful, you could miss out on some exciting stuff.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, someone you know may feel like he or she deserves something that you have. Do not validate any jealousy and take the higher road by not engaging the situation.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, provide a steady and strong hand to keep someone you love on the right track. It may not be easy to be so supportive, but do what’s necessary to help a loved one.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, although you are very persuasive this week, you should focus all of your attention on selling yourself to others in the workplace. This can make promotion imminent.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you might sense that something isn’t quite right this week with a couple of people you know. Don’t be shy about asking questions to get to the bottom of the situation.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, it can be difficult to believe the truth sometimes, especially when the news is not what you want to hear. Don’t let disagreements cloud com-

mon sense.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, mixing business and pleasure is not the right approach this week. Avoid starting new romantic relationships with someone in the office and focus on work.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, remember that risk may ultimately bring reward when considering an investment opportunity. With this in mind, you may want go out on a limb this week.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you are on a roll and you probably have no plans to slow down for anyone. Try to slow down and help others if you find yourself with some free time.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, honesty is the best policy but you do not always have to be so forthcoming with your opinions. Employ tact if you are asked for your opinions on certain issues.

PAGE TWELVE Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, January 25, 2013

Top 5 Curbside Blue Box Recycling Offenders The Top 5 reasons your blue box materials may not be collected:

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FEBRUARY COMMITTEE MEETING DATES February 12

9:00 am 1:00 pm

Roads Solid Waste Services

February 13

9:00 am 1:00 pm 4:30 pm

Police Services Social Services Information, Heritage and Seniors

February 14

9:00 am

Land Division and Planning

PLEASE CALL DONNA BRYCE, COUNTY CLERK, AT: 519.837.2600, EXT. 2520* TO CONFIRM MEETING DATES AND TIMES, AS MEETINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Materials are not in a “municipal style” blue box – pick one up free at any waste facility

PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR ELIGIBLE CHARITIES AND OTHER SIMILAR ORGANIZATIONS

MONTHLY GREEN LEGACY TREE TIP

The County of Wellington offers a property tax rebate programme for eligible charities and similar non-profit organizations. The provision allows for up to 40% of taxes to be rebated each year.

Always consider:

CRITERIA:

4 The materials are not sorted – put papers in one blue box and containers in a second blue box

Administration Centre, Keith Room

COUNTY ADMINISTRATION CENTRE, 74 WOOLWICH STREET, GUELPH WELLINGTON TERRACE, 474 WELLINGTON ROAD 18, FERGUS

2

The blue box is badly “contaminated” with unacceptable materials – check out our website for a list of acceptable items www.wellington.ca

Administration Centre, Guthrie Room Administration Centre, Guthrie Room Board Room, Wellington Terrace

February 19 10:00 am Economic Development Administration Centre, Guthrie Room

1:00 pm Administration, Finance and Personnel Administration Centre, Guthrie Room

February 28 10:00 am County Council Administration Centre, Council Chambers

Blue boxes were put out late – must be out by 7:00 am

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Administration Centre, Keith Room Administration Centre, Keith Room

• an eligible charity is a registered charity as defined in the Income Tax Act s.248(1) •

an eligible organization means a non-profit organization or foundation as described in s. 149 of the Income Tax Act (e.g. agricultural society, board of trade, chamber of commerce, registered amateur athletic association, etc.)

Tree planting success depends on the planning you put in to the project!

1. The quantity and species of trees.

2. Planting the right species in the right location (thinking of soil, moisture and light).

3. Site preparation. Weed competition is the biggest cause of tree mortality (cultivating, mulching and spraying are options).

Trees for the 2013 Green Legacy Programme are almost gone!

Cardboard is too big – large boxes need to be cut down and bundled no larger than 2’x2’x1’ and placed beside the blue box

• the charity must own and occupy the qualifying property; or

Get your order in today to avoid disappointment.

• the charity may be a tenant responsible for payment of property taxes under their lease agreement Application forms are available at local municipal offices, the County Administration Centre, or online at: www.wellington.ca.

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Contact: Emma Reddish T: 519.837.2600 X 2940* E: emmar@wellington.ca

Contact Jacquie Wolowich at: 519.546.2228 or jacquiew@wellington.ca for more information or to obtain an order form.

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• an eligible property is one in the commercial or industrial property tax classes

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ALTERNATE FORMATS OF THIS PUBLICATION AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. Accessibility Clerk 519.837.2600 x 2373 or accessibility@wellington.ca

FEEDBACK - HOW ARE WE DOING? Do you have an idea for an upcoming issue?

Andrea Ravensdale, Communications Manager 519.837.2600 x 2320* or andrear@wellington.ca *ALL CALLS CAN BE MADE TOLL FREE TO 1.800.663.0750