Inside Wellington 121611

THE WELLINGTON ADVERTISER

FREE PRESS ~ NEWS WEEKLY

Second Section

DECEMBER 16, 2011

Inside

Wellingt足足足on Brian Hewson and Escarpment Sound Studio mark 25 years

Arts & Entertainment | County Page | Events | OMAFRA Senior Lifestyles | Alma Parade | FERA Gift of Choice THE SECOND SECTION OF THE WELLINGTON ADVERTISER - FREE PRESS ~ NEWS WEEKLY

PAGE TWO Inside Wellington - Second Section of the Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

Public Service announcement

Marsville Lions Club are not having a breakfast on the last day of December. The Lions regret this, but will start it again in January and they need your support in the new year. They still collect beer and wine bottles. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Fri. Dec 16

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! Find the answer below.

Horoscopes - For the third week of December-

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, pretending to enjoy something you don’t like will not make for a productive week. Speak your mind. If something is bothering you, say so.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, there’s nothing mysterious about a presentation that is made, which earns your interest. This could be a good opportunity for a change if you pursue it.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, you are trying to purchase something that has sentimental value but you can’t seem to find the item you have in mind. Don’t devote too much energy to the challenge.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 When someone at work makes an announcement, you are caught offguard by the news. It will take you a few days to recover, but then it’s business as usual.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 The cliche, “save for a rainy” day was never more appropriate, Leo. Your rainy day has arrived, and you may need to tap into saved funds just to get along.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, others could find you’re acting irrationally, and that’s not within your character. It could be time to step aside and regroup, which may paint a clearer picture of your behavior.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, although things have been a bit hectic, you have found new strategies for not letting the stress affect your well-being. You’re enjoying the ride, instead.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, organization at home can go a long way to bringing a new outlook on your life. Think about eliminating some of the clutter that has taken over.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 It’s high time you share some of the responsibility with someone else, Capricorn. Managing everything yourself is a one-way ticket to getting stressed out. That’s not what you need.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, contrary to what you may believe, you cannot always be right in every situation. Thinking this way is counterproductive to your relationships and could affect friendships.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Rethink a financial strategy, Pisces.

Examine all the ins and outs and consider all the pros and cons before committing.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 You have nothing on your mind except having fun, Libra, and that’s OK. Since you’ve been working so hard lately, it’s actually a good opportunity to do something to let loose.

Punch Party/Silent Auction. Start at 5pm. Harriston Legion Branch #296. Entertainment by the “Fabulous 4”. All are welcome to join in the fun. Silent Auction tables. Bidding Ends at 10pm. Donations for this can be dropped off at the Legion. Draws and entertainment so come on in and enjoy. For more information call 519-338-2843. *** Arthur Legion Wing Night 6- 8pm. All you can eat. No take outs. *** Dec. 16 and 17- Shepherd’s Play. Friday 7pm and Saturday 2pm.

Come enjoy a magical performance of the nativity story in a barn above the cows, presented by the Trillium Waldorf School community. Admission is by donation; pay what you can. Don’t forget warm clothing and blankets. Venue: Fourfold Farm Barn, #7682 4th Line Nichol Rd., Elora. For more information contact Connie Watson at 519-821-5140. *** Mount Forest United Church Senior Choir and Friends under the leadership of our Music Director Derek Moore. “Silent was the Night” Cantata at 7:30pm. Mount Forest United Church.

Wheelchair accessible. All are welcome.

Sat. Dec 17

Fergus Brass Band plays at the Adult/ Senior Ice Skating 8 9:50pm. Exhibition Park Arena, Guelph. Cost - $7/ person. Join us for fun, exercise, music and friendship. Contact 519-836-1015. *** Arthur Legion Jamboree 2-5pm. Christmas Karaoke 8:30pm. *** Country Dance in the new Alma community hall. Admission $10. *** A Christmas Celebration with the Orangeville Community Band 7:30pm. New Hope Community Church, Corner of Riddell Road and Townline, Orangeville. Tickets: Adults $15 or 2 for $25, Seniors $10, children under 12 $5. Call Kathy at 519-216-4167 for tickets. *** Guelph Chamber Choir presents Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s masterwork embodies the essence of Christmas in sublime music of birth, renewal and celebration. Experience the joy of the season through a tradition that has inspired generations of music lovers.

River Run Centre, Guelph. 8pm Box office: 519-763-3000.

Sun. Dec 18

Sunday January 8, 2012 Games start at 1pm - Doors open at 11am

share the wealth package $15 - main program package $25 (both packages are required - extra strips available)

“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

All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth... and maybe my cavity filled.

Do you know someone who needs dental help for their kids?

They may qualify for FREE dental care.

Call the Dental Line at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2661

‘Sundays @ 3 Series’ at 3pm. A Victorian Christmas. Dublin Chancel Choir; Martin Anderle, conductor and organist. The Trillium Brass, Jane and John Watson. Admission at the door: $20/Students $5. Concert series tickets: $54. Dublin Street United Church, 68 Suffolk St. W,. Guelph. 519-821-0610. *** St. John’s Anglican Church, Rockwood invites you to their annual ‘Carols On The Green’ Christmas sing-a-long. 6:30pm until our voices give out. Bonfire, hot beverages, cookies and carol sheets provided. Children bring your sleds if it snows, we have a great hill on the corner of Main St. and Hwy. 7, at St. John’s Church Hall, Rockwood. *** Fergus Legion Community Breakfast with Santa. Bring your kids. $6. *** Alma Optimist Club Santa Claus parade, 2pm. The only parade longer than the town. Followed by a Visiting Canata Choir in the Presbyterian Church. All Welcome. *** Cantata- Lead Me Back To Bethlehem. 2:30pm, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mount Forest and Dec. 19, 7:30pm, St. John’s Catholic Church, Arthur. Directed by Derek Moore and performed by area choirs. Free will offering. *** Eramosa Pastoral Charge - Junior Youth Council is hosting a free Children’s Christmas Party for children in the community between the ages of 2 and 10. FREE. 1-3pm at Barrie Hill United

Church. Please call to register: 519-767-3168.

Tue. Dec 20

Cancer Support Group / third Tuesday of every Month, 10am -12pm. Upper Grand, 753 Tower, St., Fergus. First Wednesday of the month-Lunch Out. Contact Joyce B. 519-843-3213 or Judy D. 519-843-3947 Ext: 100.

Wed. Dec 21

Winter Solstice Celebration. Please call the Guelph Lake Nature Centre at 519-836-7860 to register. 7-9pm. Join us for a celebration of the shortest night of the year. We will go for an evening hike, sit around the campfire and do some stargazing if weather conditions permit. Bring a mug for hot chocolate.

Sat. Dec 24

Ballinafad United Church – Christmas Eve in the Stable. 6:30pm at Good News Farm, 4917 Eighth Line Erin. Watch for signs.

Visit with the animals. A portion of the donations will be given to local food banks. For more info. call 905-873-4918. *** Experience the original Christmas. Journeys run outdoors throughout the evening. 5- 7:30pm. Living Bethlehem at Crieff Hills Community – 7098 Conc 1 Puslinch. Sponsored by the United Churches - Mount Carmel-Zion and Arkell, and the Presbyterian Churches - Duff’s, Knox Crieff, Kirkwall and Crieff Hills. All are welcome. No charge. 519-824-7898. *** Christmas Eve Candlelight service 7:30pm. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Arthur. All welcome. *** Christmas Eve Services will be held at St. John’s United Church, Belwood at 7pm and St. Paul’s, Metz at 8:30pm. All welcome. *** Christmas services at Everton Community Church - 0379 Evert St., Everton. Christmas Eve Candlelight service 6:30pm.

Christmas Day worship service - “Memories of Christmas” at 10:30am. Further information available by calling 519-856-1185. *** Christmas Eve Service, 11pm at Knox Elora Presbyterian Church.

Sun. Dec 25

Combined Christmas Day Service at St. Paul’s United Church, Metz. 9:45am. Everyone welcome.

wed. Dec 28

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! 10:30 -11:30 am or 6-7pm.

Children in SK – Grade 3 are invited to join us at the Hillsburgh Branch, Wellington County Library for hot chocolate, stories, songs and making your own snow globe! Please register. 5198554010.

Sat. Dec 31

Elora Legion New Year’s Eve Dance 8pm. Join Country Versatiles upstairs in the Maple Leaf Room for an evening of dancing. 519846-9611. *** New Years Eve Dance. Harriston Legion Branch #296. 9pm. $16 per person. Entertainment by Riverston Ramblers. For tickets contact the Legion at 338-2843. *** Arthur Legion New Year’s Eve Karaoke. 8:30pm. *** New Year’s Eve Family Skating & Celebration at the Arthur Community Centre. Skating 6:30–8pm. Entertainment & Munchies 8–9pm. Sponsored by Arthur St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

Admission: donation to the Arthur Food Bank.

Mon. Jan. 2

Just for Women, Just for Fun tickets now on sale. Fabulous 5th year. Crafts, lifestyle workshops, refreshments, lunch, raffles. Sat. April 28, 2012. All proceeds to Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Wellington. Call 519-323-4273. *** Until Jan. 4- Munsch at Play for children in Grade 1 to Grade 6 at the Hillsburgh Branch, Wellington County Library. Three days of creating, acting and fun! Participants must be able to join us for all three days. Monday January 2, 2:30–3:30pm., Tuesday January 3, 10 am – noon. Wednesday January 4, 10:30–11:30 am. Please register. 519-855-4010.

Centre Wellington Food Bank

TURKEY DRIVE

Double your donation to the Food Bank at no extra cost to you!

The Food Bank and ScotiaBank are partnered again this year for the annual Christmas Turkey Drive.

ScotiaBank will donate $20.00 for every $20.00 ticket purchased in the branch at 201 St. Andrew St West to a maximum of $5000.

Tickets are available from December 5th to December 23rd.

Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011 PAGE THREE

Escarpment Sound: Twenty-five years of working behind the scenes in Canada’s music industry

by Mike Robinson

ERIN - Brian Hewson has heard it all.

For those driving down the backroads of Erin, the sound of Stompin’ Tom Connors might be closer than they think.

And while it may seem like a small, unassuming gravel road leading in to Escarpment Sound Studio, it is a road well travelled by some of the top names in Canada’s music industry.

This year, Hewson’s recording studio marks 25 years in the business.

“It’s great to be in this business after 25 years. This industry is a real fickle one, so it’s nice to still be doing this and have people I’ve been working with for years and years as repeat clients. It’s a nice feeling.”

One has to love music to be in this business, and it is clear talking with Hewson that is the case.

“The reason I’m into this is that I totally love music - all kinds of music.”

He adds, “It has been a pleasure to work with some of the best talent in the country and being able to help people achieve their musical goals is very rewarding.”

Hewson uses a mix of tradition and technology to bring a solid sound to studio sessions.

His background in the sound and recording industry itself stretches back nearly three decades.

In the 1970s he started off as a bass guitar player, then his keen interest in music led him towards the technical side.

“I guess I was always the kind of guy who would have two tape decks at home. I’d play one and record on the other. I always wanted to know what was inside of things, so I would take them apart. I enjoyed the equipment as much as the guitars - if not more sometimes.”

In 1977, Hewson enrolled in Sheridan College’s threeyear media arts program in Oakville to study recording and film.

It also gave him the opportunity to do many recordings and work with some up-andcoming stars such as Rick Santers and Platinum Blonde.

After graduating, he began work with Soundpath Productions in Oakville, “which was a great place to start.”

It was during his time at Soundpath Hewson worked on projects such as Triumph’s Stages album, the Spoons’ Listen to the City album and demos by other major artists of the era.

“It was mainly a commercial house ... we did hundreds and hundreds of commercials.

It was a great feeling to record something, then hear it on the radio driving home.”

Because of a slowdown in

work, Hewson was laid off from that studio at a point when other studios were not hiring.

“It’s was a pretty small market back then,” he said.

During this time he was doing freelance engineering with artists like The Mercy Brothers, Jeff Bird and Double Exposure. During that time he also held a job doing live sound at a club on Queen street in Toronto.

From the sale of his first home he was able to build a small studio in Acton which was the start of Escarpment Sound Studio. The story behind the name is his love of the Niagara Escarpment, which runs through the area.

Hewson described getting his first studio together as “both exciting and scary. It was my first business and I dove in not really knowing what I was doing.”

Work included dealing with neighbours concerned about potential noise. In the end, he soundproofed the building and assured the neighbours there would be no big parties.

For five years Hewson worked out of his small but productive 16-track studio doing demos, commercials and albums including three “Stompin’ Tom” projects.

That first studio was very small - 14 feet wide and 30 feet long with sliding doors in the middle, he said.

“It was just big enough to get stuff done. It was always very cramped.”

As a result, he began searching for a bigger place.

He’d been driving around and saw the “for sale” sign on the current location in rural Erin.

The property included a stone barn. Even though the walls had partially caved in, Hewson saw the potential and thought “this could be an incredible studio.”

Because of his experience, Hewson had a good idea of what he wanted and worked on a design he believed would work well.

He hired an acoustic expert to design the angles and materials - “both are very important to get the proper sound in the room.” He pointed to the angles in both the ceiling and walls to absorb sound.

“It’s a really creative atmosphere, with the chance to provide input,” he said. “There’s different songs and different people every week. That part is great.

“We do basically every type of music.”

A recent week’s work included a new Stompin’ Tom album, work with a local country band, a blues band with members from Kitchener and Oakville and a heavy metal band.

“I used to do a lot of commercials, but not so much any more,” he said. Some of

At the controls - Escarpment Sound Studio owner Brian Hewson gives a demonstration using the control panel he uses during various recording sessions.

photo by Mike Robinson

that work included Old Hide House commercials for about 18 years.

He explained some commercial work has moved to smaller studios, to people’s homes and to radio stations. “[Over the years] Technology has changed dramatically and it’s totally affected everybody,” Hewson said.

“A lot of big studios are closing down in Toronto. They just can’t sustain the work.

Everybody has a computer at home where they can record doing something, so we’ve totally lost the demo market, where bands would come in and do a quick demo for their songs. That almost never happens anymore.”

The whole industry took a big hit with the computer revo-

enough to accommodate an entire high school band.

“There’s hardly any studios that can accommodate that anymore,” he said.

In a walk through the studio, Hewson described various components of the operation especially the equipment.

“A lot of people aren’t even using the large consoles any more, they’re just using the computer. You can use a computer, but you don’t get the same kind of results.”

He explained the console is definitely an asset, and it’s something not many people have anymore.

And while the equipment is expensive, he said it is not as complicated as it seems.

Hewson explained each strip controls aspects of a sin-

“The reason I’m into this is that I totally love music all kinds of music.”

- Brian Hewson of Escarpment Sound Studio. lution, he said.

As a result, Hewson began to diversify and his work now includes services such as CD duplication and other things not just recording.

“What’s kept me busy is that I have a really large room [within his studio]. It’s something not many studios can offer for large projects.”

Of his highlights over the years, Hewson said Stompin’ Tom tends to be the name people recognize.

“I call him Captain Canada; he’s just so well known. He’s 75 now, and he wants to get all these songs out. He’s a really hard worker and he’s a great producer. We’ve worked together since 1987.”

The current album is the 10th project they’ve worked on together.

“He loves the atmosphere and is a country kind of guy,” he said.

The biggest draws to Hewson’s studio now are the room in his studio and the country atmosphere. He added the stone walls are great for drum sounds and acoustic strings.

Some bands from Toronto might come to the studio and stay for three or four days - just sleeping there.

“They can huddle down, work on the project, and not be distracted,” he said.

The room is also large

gle microphone, and once a person knows how to control that, the strips to control the others are the same.

But at the same time, Hewson is harvesting the best of both worlds.

“We’re kind of between the digital and analogue world.”

He can record digitally computers make up a large portion of the control room - but he still has analogue compressors, limiters and reverb (all things from the 1970s, 80s and 90s that can be plugged into the control strip to provide analogue sound into the computer).

In a comparison of tape versus digital, Hewson said it is akin to the arguments for vinyl recordings.

“There is that sound, but there is also the noise which comes with it - that everyone’s forgotten about.

“You get a warmer sound, but you also get a bit of the hiss.”

The studio also includes various speaker sizes.

“When we’re mixing we’ll use the different speakers some sound like a home system, while others create the sound of much larger systems.

“We try to make sure it sounds good on all systems.”

Other rooms include a lounge with pool table. “It’s a great place to relax,” he said.

The main recording room

includes a tall ceiling to eliminate echoes and creates a church effect with a nice open sound, Hewson explained.

He added, “everything needs to have a microphone.”

There could be 12 or more microphones, plus additional mics above the musicians to catch the sound.

As well, the performers also have to have headphones to hear Hewson speaking from the control room.

In addition, his studio has isolation booths to record louder instruments and to separate the sounds from overlap.

“Everyone can play live, but its still totally controlled.”

Hewson said “a lot of people know what they want and I help them get that.”

He explained some have a clear plan of what they want to do, others have never done it before and look to him for guidance - with the sound and with the songs.

“Lots of times, I’m totally taking people by the hand, guiding them through the process to get the right sound.

“With some people, I even have to tune their guitars to get it to sound good. People don’t realize how important the tuning is when you are doing a recording. You have to have good sounding instruments.”

Hewson also noted, “One of the advantages of me being in the country is that I can have windows [in the studio].”

He explained that many studios don’t have any windows at all, because they cannot be soundproofed.

“You’re not as worried about sound getting out, but sounds from the outside getting in.”

“You can almost never get rid of that sound. That’s why 90 per cent studios have no windows, so you are in a dark atmosphere all day long. It can drain you of your energy.”

In contrast, Hewson’s studio is brightly lit with natural sunlight.

“It’s more like a house atmosphere. There’s a couch and carpet as well. I try to make everything as comfortable as I can.

“People get nervous when they are under the microscope, so I try to ease things up.”

In addition to the booths, all the rooms are wired for sound and can act as separate studios for different instruments - where they are not in with the drums.

Having all the rooms wired provides more options, while still giving control, Hewson said.

“When people make a

mistake, you don’t want it on everyone else’s microphones.”

Hewson also has his own wall of fame, representing many of the albums he’s helped create over the years.

“There’s a lot of bands from Guelph, Kitchener and within an hour’s circle around me where people are coming from.”

While there’s other studios in the area, Hewson said his is one of the larger ones.

“I’m like a mid-sized studio, but I probably have the biggest building,” he said.

Over the years, Hewson has seen a lot of really good young talent. He has also sponsored local talent through contests in which the prize is studio time.

“I get all these young bands, and it’s really great because there is a lot of talent in our young people.

“Most of the bands in the area have been here at one point or another - which is great.”

Even now, one of the challenges he experiences is attracting talent from Toronto.

“They think we’re in the boonies. But once they’re here, they realize it’s worth the drive. In the 50 minutes they’d spend getting here, they might do the same just getting across the city [because of traffic].”

However, he is getting more of that business as the larger studios in Toronto are closing.

As a result, he’s been able to attract high-end session players.

“It’s a sign of the times.

We’ll see what happens.”

He adds, “every one has software where they can record at home, but it ends up sounding like a home recording.”

Then the same person comes to his studio and works with someone who has been in the business for 30 years - and they have the room and equipment to instantly get a nice drum sound.

“They go, ‘Wow, we should have done this before’,” he said.

He also has some freelance engineers who work in the studio either to assist with overflow work or to work on their own projects.

Over the years, Hewson taught advanced audio at Sheridan College in Oakville for 14 years and also taught a course at the Metal Works Institute in Mississauga.

Currently, he teaches privately in his studio courses on basic audio and recording with Pro Tools.

For more information about Escarpment Sound Studio, visit www.escarpmentsound.com.

PAGE FOUR Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

Rural Life

Agricultural Information Contact Centre | 1-877-424-1300 | www.ontario.ca/omafra 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: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For technical information, call the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or visit the OMAFRA Website: www. omafra.gov.on.ca GREY BRUCE FARMERS’ WEEK ELMWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE (#38 QUEEN ST.W.), 8 KM NORTH OF HANOVER ON COUNTY ROAD #10

Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week (GBFW) 2012, celebrating its 46th year, will run from Wednesday January 4th to Tuesday January 10th, starting with Beef Day, and ending on Crops Day. The GBFW committee is excited to announce that they have expanded the Ecological program to a full day, so now it is a 7 day Agricultural Conference packed with a most impressive and informative line-up of speakers! The co-coordinators for this event, Grey County Ag Services in conjunction with agricultural commodity leaders from Grey and Bruce Counties, have attempted to feature

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at least one high profile speaker for each day, targeting the issues and challenges facing the farming community today.

As always, exciting Panels have been developed for 2012.

These panels include: • On Beef Day, learn more about the livestock handling systems that 3 producers utilize on their farms in Practical Set-ups for Handling: To Build, Buy or Modify.

• On Dairy Day, the panel will discuss Robotic Milking Systems: Look, No Hands! Three producers will share their perspective on the robotic systems that they use on their farms.

• Don’t miss this one! On Sheep Day the panel will focus on Tips and Tricks of Sheep Management from Seasoned Shepherds.

Ever wanted to pick the brain of a producer whose family have been shepherds for generations? Here’s your chance.

• On Ecological Day, three local producers will discuss their first hand experiences with Pasture Grazing.

• On Crops Day sit back and be convinced that you need to Add Some Colour to Your Production, as two producers and Brian Hall, Bean & Canola Specialist, OMAFRA, talk about the merits of growing Canola.

• On Beef Day, the author of Steak: One Man’s Search for the World’s Tastiest Piece of Beef, Mark Schatzker, will deliver Raising the Steaks – How to Raise Tastier Beef and Sell It For Big Money • Dairy Day has a stellar line-up including Jerry McDowell, Canada Business Manager, Zinpro Corporation, who will expand your thinking with Dairy Cattle Lameness (More Than Just Feet).

• On Sheep and Goat Days Woody Lane from Lane Livestock Services, Roseburg, Oregon will be on the agendas. He will deliver 2 presentations both days: Forages That Work: Filling the Feed Holes and The Big Decisions - Strategies for Managing Production Costs/High Input Costs.

• Horse Day has an incredible line-up of speakers including, Obrey and Angie Motowylo, Motowylo Racing Inc., from Bluffton Alberta who will speak twice: World Professional Chuckwagon Racing; and Our Equine Health Care and Nutrition Regime.

• The Equine Youth Program looks outstanding this year; it will once again consist of all interactive material. Thanks to a very generous donation from Cancord Inc., the older youth will each be making rope halters.

• Ecological Day will provide an abundance of practical tips.

Dr. Robert Nurse, Weed Scientist, AAFC, will deliver Weed Management in Organic Crop Production Systems. Anne Verhallen, Soil Management Specialist from OMAFRA will share Pushing the Envelope With Cover Crops. Maurizio (Moe) Agostino, Managing Commodity Strategist, Farms.com Risk Management will participate in Crops Day to deliver 2012 Grain Outlook: Is $7.00

Wales introduced as new president of OFA

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t DEC 24 - Yes, we’re here! Find grea . son sea ive fest the for food and gifts Christmas Carols.

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Horticultural bursary - Norwell Secondary School graduate Christopher Raftis was the recipient of the Harriston and District Horticultural Society’s bursary. Presenting the award to Raftis are bursary convener Linda Campbell and District 7 OHA Director Dorelene Anderson. photo submitted by Linda Campbell

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GUELPH - Mark Wales, Alymer-area vegetable producer was recently elected president of the largest general farm organization in Canada, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).

Long-time Board member and industry leader, Wales brings an extensive portfolio of experience to his new position.

Wales was elected at OFA’s annual general meeting and convention recently held in Toronto.

Joining Wales on the executive are Don McCabe and Debra Pretty-Straathof as vice presidents and returning executive member Keith Currie.

Looking ahead, Wales told OFA delegates that he will work on their behalf to ensure election promises made by both federal and provincial parties are upheld. And he will engage politicians and policy advisors in developing solutions to agricultural issues and challenges.

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• Finally the last presenter of the conference will be an annual favourite, Peter Johnson, from OMAFRA. He will be back yet again to provide a witty and informative presentation, Bin Bustin’ Barley.

Registration price (at door) - Beef, Dairy, Goat, Sheep, Ecological, and Crops Days - $25 (includes roast beef dinner; Lamb is also served on Sheep day). Horse Day - $20 adults / $10 youth (includes hot beef on a bun lunch). For further information or interviews, please call Lorie Smith or Ray Robertson at 519-986-3756.

GROWING YOUR FARM PROFITS

by John C. Benham The next Growing Your Farm Profits workshop is planned for Thursday, January 12th in the Elora OMAFRA meeting room to be completed on Thursday, January 19th at 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided. No cost to you. At the workshop you will be able to complete a workbook similar to the EFP workbook and come up with an Action Plan. By taking the workshop you will be able to review your current farm management practices. You will better understand how planning provides a framework for effective decision making. It will help you set goals and priorities for the future. It will identify resources to help you reach your goals. It will help you build on the strengths of your business and identify where you may wish to make changes for improved performance. For an established farm business up to $31,400 is available and up to $35,900 is available for a new farm business. These are the maximum cost share available to improve your farm business management. For more information and to sign up call John at 519-846-3394 or email: wellington@ ontariosoilcrop.org. If you wish you may sign up electronically by going online at: www.ontariosoilcrop.org/workshops/.

COMING EVENTS: 2012: Jan. 4 & 5 - 19th Annual Southwest Agricultural Conference, University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. Watch for details at: http://www.southwestagconference.ca/.

Jan. 4 - 6 - Central Ontario Agricultural Conference - held at Georgian College, 1 Georgian Drive, Barrie (Duckworth & Bell Farm Road entrance). This is a 3 day series of educational programming for farmers. This conference is formerly known as “Ag Info Days”, and consists of a series of themed days for various farm commodities, accompanied with industry trade show booths & displays. Registration costs $25, or $30 including a hot lunch.

For information see: http://www.centralontarioagconference.ca/ or contact Connie Brown: 519-726-9300 ext. 1224.

Jan. 21 - Farm$mart Agricultural Conference, Rozanski Hall, University of Guelph. Mark your calendar and watch for details at http://www.uoguelph.ca/farmsmart/.

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Wales plans to work with all agri-food partners, including commodity groups, OFA members, the general public and industry organizations, to achieve results.

“Our strength as an organization is in our ability to find the best solutions for all our members using all of our resources,” Wales said.

“Today’s farmer needs to be sustainable in order to be successful in the futures. That means productive, profitable and secure farming operations.

And I will continue to advocate this message throughout the coming year as I work with the OFA team and together we will deliver results to our members.”

Wales has been an OFA vice president for three years and served OFA in a variety of capacities over the past 15 years.

Among many volunteer commitments, he is a member of the Elgin Federation of Agriculture, chair of the Peer Review Committee for the Environmental Farm Plan, member of the Garlic Growers Association and sits on the Elgin Stewardship Council.

Wales grows a variety of vegetables on his farm for the fresh and processing markets along with corn, soybeans and white beans.

As OFA moves forward in its 76th year, Wales says he is very optimistic about his chance to make a difference to farmers and Ontario agriculture by saying, “together, we can achieve.”

Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011 PAGE FIVE

Senior Lifestyles Pickleball craze catching on in Centre Wellington

by Chris Daponte FERGUS - Come spring, Peter Grimmer expects the Fergus Pickleball Club to boast 30 members.

It’s an impressive number, considering the club began just four months ago.

“We took off really fast and it’s becoming really popular,” said Grimmer, ambassador and spokesman for the Fergus club, which was recently recognized as part of the Pickleball Association of Ontario.

Pickleball, which is played with hard paddles and a wiffle ball, combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. It is played on a court similar to a doubles badminton court with a net two inches lower than tennis nets.

“It’s such a combination [of the sports],” said Grimmer, explaining what draws people to pickleball.

“It’s a safe game, and yet it can be a really fast game too ... and it’s great exercise.”

The Fergus club, which currently includes about 24 people, plays Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 11am in the hall at the Fergus sportsplex (the group played on the arena floors in the summer).

Dorothy Smith, program manager at the Fergus sportsplex, said she was told pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the province.

Recent visitors from London told her tennis courts there are being changed so they can also accommodate pickleball.

“They’re loving it,” Smith said of the Fergus club, comprised mostly of seniors.

“They’re such an eager group. It’s really great to see ... You can’t help but love their enthusiasm for the sport.”

Despite its similarities to tennis, pickleball is more accessible to a wider range of players, particularly children and seniors, due to the speed of the ball (about one-third the

Inside Wellington can be read online in flipbook format.

Visit: www.wellington advertiser.com and ‘click’ digital flipbook editions

Follow us on Twitter @WellyAdvertiser

Happy Holidays from

Palmerston All the best to you & yours for a blessed 2012 600 Whites Road Palmerston, 519-343-2611 x 223 www.royalterracepalmerston.ca

Friendly competition - Jack and Marcia Redmond and Margaret and David Oxley meet at the net after a brief demonstration of the sport of pickleball prior to May’s 2011 Senior Summer Games in Fergus.

Advertiser file photo

average speed of a tennis ball) and a smaller court (just under one-third of the total area of a tennis court).

The game, which was invented during the summer of 1965 by a group of friends headed by Washington politician Joel Pritchard, has achieved a worldwide following, with national and international governing bodies, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.

Locally, the Senior Summer Games in Fergus in May helped spike interest in the sport.

Plus, Grimmer noted, a lot of the club’s current members spend parts of the winter in the southern U.S., where he said

the sport has really taken off.

Grimmer, who also played pickleball in Kitchener and Guelph, thanked Smith and the Victoria Park Seniors Centre for helping to get the sport up and running regularly in Fergus.

He is hoping growth in the Centre Wellington area continues, as the Fergus club would like to expand from two courts to four and to offer the sport on evenings to a younger crowd and to those working during the day.

“It’s not just for seniors,” he stressed. He said the cost is minimal - about $10 per year to be a part of the provincial

Providing Personal Care in Home or Institutional Settings

association - and participation requires no real experience.

Grimmer invites anyone interested in joining to come out and watch and, if they have any questions, to ask for him.

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy, healthy, prosperous New Year!

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PAGE SIX Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

07529 08/11

Senior Lifestyles

Colour at the bazaar - Marion Grundy, right, and Helen Clarkson offered a nice array of sock monkeys on Dec. 3 at the Knox Ospringe annual Christmas bazaar. The church parking lot was packed shortly after it opened and business appeared to be brisk. photo by David Meyer

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Shingles vaccine to be available in January ABOYNE - If an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, a vaccine that can decrease the chance of developing shingles could be a welcome option.

In January, Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) will offer that option to people 50 and older with the vaccine Zostavax.

“It’s not a publicly funded vaccine, so you have to pay for it,” said program manager, Susan Otten.

“But it is effective in the prevention of the disease and the problems that develop from shingles.”

That is a painful disease

that causes a rash that can last several weeks and lead to skin infections, scarring and even long-term nerve pain. The pain of shingles can be so severe it affects a person’s quality of life.

Shingles come from the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once people have had chickenpox, the virus remains in the body.

If it becomes active again, it can cause shingles. About one third of people will develop shingles at some time in their life.

The vaccine is not a treatment for shingles and it cannot prevent chickenpox. However,

anyone who has had shingles before can benefit from having the vaccine.

Those currently with shingles or just recovered from it should see their health care provider before receiving the vaccine.

The cost for Zostavax is $195 and it is currently in short supply. People interested in being placed on a waiting list can contact WDGPH at 1-800265-7293 extension 4844.

The vaccine will be available at Public Health’s Aboyne, Guelph and Orangeville offices effective January.

For more information visit www.wdgpublichealth.ca.

December 2011

To avoid cancellations, please register!

Exercise SOCIALS Mon. Dec. 19 – 10:30 Drayton Reformed Church Thurs. Dec. 22- 10:00 Clifford United Church

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Congregate Dining Programs Arthur: “Favourite Christmas Ornament” on Thursday December 22nd bring your favourite Christmas Ornament and share the story behind it.

Friendship Lunch The holidays are a time for sharing with friends.

Everyone is invited to join us, whether you are a new or old friend, for a delicious lunch prepared by local chefs Helen and Jenni at the Palmerston United Church on Tues. Dec. 20th at 12 p.m. There is no cost for this event but we do ask that you bring a small dessert to share with those at your table.

RESEARCH PROJECT INVITATION Rural older adults have been asked to participate in a research project from the University of Guelph on volunteering. They are interested in hearing from everyone; even those who do not participate in

formal volunteer work. The report needs over 400 participants and it is important to the lead of the project, Dr. Ben Gottlieb that he has insights from rural seniors. If you are over the age of 60 and are interested in participating please call the SCE at 519-638-1000 and we will arrange an interview with a student from the University.

Cancellation Policy If the school buses in Wellington North do not run then the program will not be running. If you are in doubt please call the SCE so that we can let you know if the program is running or not. This includes the walking and exercise groups in the different communities.

Walking Groups Fri. Dec. 16 - 9:00am Palmerston & Drayton Wed. Dec. 21 - 9:00am Palmerston 9:30am Arthur Fri. Dec. 23 - 9:00am Palmerston & Drayton Wed. Dec. 28 - 9:00am Palmerston 9:30 Arthur Fri. Dec. 30 - 9:00am Palmerston & Drayton

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011 PAGE SEVEN

Senior Lifestyles

New study: Seniors prone to household injury due to lack of awareness

TORONTO - Canadian seniors are vulnerable to dangers within their own homes due to minimal awareness of household perils among them and their loved ones.

The concerning trend was revealed through a recent survey of Canadians that highlighted a minimal awareness of common household risks to seniors and, in turn, little proactivity in addressing them.

The survey commissioned

by We Care Home Health Services shows only 54 per cent of Canadians correctly identified falling down as the most common household inju-

Benefits of hiring mature workers outweigh negative stereotypes TORONTO Many employers often hold the misconception that mature workers are too expensive, difficult to train, quick to retire or prone to become ineffective as they age.

Although workers over the age of 50 might not be as experienced with the latest “apps” as their younger colleagues, Randstad Canada says job applications from older candidates are worth considering.

Leandra Harris, senior executive vice president of HR for Randstad Canada, says companies need to ignore the stereotypes of mature workers.

“Negative stereotypes about older workers remain deeply entrenched,” Harris said. “These stereotypes include unwarranted assumptions that older workers are more costly, harder to train, less adaptable, less motivated, less flexible, more resistant to change and less energetic than younger employees. It’s time to look beyond these negative age-based stereotypes.”

According to Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, 10.9% of those aged 65 years or older had jobs in 2010. These “silver collar” employees are expected to continue to work either for their own enjoyment or for economic reasons.

Harris believes it’s important for businesses to tap into this demographic to secure the supply of workers.

“Older workers are a resource we cannot afford to waste,” Harris said, explaining projected tight labor markets will require Canadians employers to make better use of our experienced mature workers.

“Many older workers have the skills companies are seeking. They are armed with experience, a strong work ethic and they can typically relate well with customers and identify with their needs. They are also loyal and less likely to hop around from job to job.

“Companies would be well advised to seriously think about their future employment needs in order to be better positioned to seek out, hire and retain quality workers,” Harris said, “including mature workers, who will help them compete in tomorrow’s workplace.”

ry among seniors while only one-third (33 per cent) thought that slips in the bath were the most common household peril.

However, nearly two-thirds (62 per cent) know someone over the age of 65 who has injured him or herself in a household accident.

Only 34 per cent have removed slipping or tripping hazards from within the home of a senior over the age of 65 and only 39 per cent have arranged the installation of bath rails or seats in the shower or bathtub.

“There’s no question that due to the overwhelming lack

of awareness about common household hazards for seniors, many of us aren’t taking the necessary steps to protect them,” says Sue Kelly, Registered Nurse and Director of Health and Wellness for We Care Home Health Services.

“We need to be more vigilant when it comes to the safety of our loved ones, but we also need to help them learn how they too can take an active role in preventing injury.”

Kelly adds that many seniors are fairly proactive in some respects but fail to recognize some of the less obvious dangers that lurk within the

household.

Only one in four seniors (25 per cent) have installed bath rails or seats in their shower or bathtub while only 26 per cent have a fire escape plan.

The survey found that less than 63 per cent have a properly installed fire alarm and only 38 per cent have handrails on all stairs.

“The reality is that as we age, our sense of smell, touch, taste and sound decrease as does our coordination,” Kelly said.

“The more seniors can do today to prevent common hazards, the longer they’ll be able

to maintain an independent lifestyle and remain in their home as long as possible.”

Falls are currently a major cause of injury among seniors and account for more than half of all injuries suffered by the elderly.

Moreover, seniors who are injured from a fall seldom fully recover.

Kelly says these startling statistics were the spur behind We Care’s adoption of the Independent Living Guide, which provides seniors and their family members with comprehensive advice on what to be mindful of within the

home.

The free guide also offers numerous checklists to help seniors identify and take preventative action against the risks in each part of the home.

“There isn’t one room of the house that is completely free of hazards,” says Kelly.

“So we adopted the Independent Living Guide to highlight the less conspicuous dangers and to offer suggestions on how to pre-empt accidents.”

More information about the Independent Living Guide can be found at We Care’s website, www.wecare.ca

Please note Page 40 of the Seniors Section is missing from the Winter Community Guide, see below the details of that page.

For more information please contact Victoria Park Seniors Centre at (519) 787-1814.

Jan. 16-Mar. 26 (10 classes) $80 members /$85 non Learn to Meditate (NEW!) An 8-week introduction to Insight Meditation. There is only one way to know about meditation – try it for yourself. Commit to learning and practicing these ancient techniques that science is now verifying. Give yourself 8 weeks of direct experience, teachings and practice and see what all the talk is about. Traditionally, these teachings are offered by donation, based on the teachings of generosity. Donations will be accepted at class. This tradition and practice will be explained in the class.

Instructor: Jill Davey. (The course fee below goes to support the Centre).

Fridays, 9:00-10:00 am Jan. 27-March 16 (8 classes) $24 members / $26 non Flag Finesse & Fitness (NEW!) Learn how to manoeuvre a colourful scarf-flag while exercising to the beat!

A fun, creative way to get fit while working with others to create beautiful visual routines. Instructor: Nancy Revie (No class Feb. 1).

Wednesdays, 1:00-1:45 pm Jan. 11–Feb. 22 (6 classes) $30 members / $36 non Wednesdays, 1:00-1:45 pm Feb. 29–April. 4 (6 classes) $30 members / $36 non Balls & Balance (NEW!) A class for those looking to improve their balance, while developing resistance using beach balls. Enjoy movement and team work as well as the challenge of a creative fitness workout.

Instructor: Nancy Revie (No class Feb. 1).

Wednesdays, 2:00-2:45 pm Jan. 11–Feb. 22 (6 classes) $30 members / $36 non Wednesdays, 2:00-2:45 pm Feb. 29–April 4 (6 classes) $30 members / $36 non **NOTE: Take any of two of the above fitness courses per week (per person) and save $5 OR take three fitness courses per week (per person) and save $10.

Walking Groups Monday afternoons at 1:30 pm (including statutory holidays). The group meets at the Centre to explore a dif-

ferent area each week. No cost. All walking levels welcome! Contact the Centre.

Monday to Friday Mornings at 8:30/9:00 am meeting at the track in Victoria Park. No cost. All welcome!

Walking poles are available for use.

Contact: Donna Wagenaar 519-8434754.

Tuesday & Thursday Mornings at 8:30 am. Learn to use Nordic walking poles for a more effective workout and we provide the poles! No cost. Certified fitness instructor Kelly Offer will be walking with the group to teach techniques and to show how to effectively use the walking poles.

DANCE PROGRAMS Belly Dancing A gentle exercise that stretches, strengthens and tones specific muscle groups as you learn the basic foundations movements. Experience the magical effects created by using a veil as a prop while manipulating the fabric to frame and flow around the body.

Build confidence, grace of movement and improve posture. Join us for the fun of it and meet women of all ages who practice it. Bring a yoga mat, water and towel. Dress comfortably.

Veils provided. For adults aged 21 and up. Instructor: Lise Stewart. (No class Mon. Feb. 20). BONUS: For those registered in Monday or Wednesday classes, you can attend Saturday dropin class 10:00-11:30 am for $2 per class! (Note: Saturday morning class is not for beginners).

Saturdays, 10:00-11:30 am (Intermediate Level) $2 drop-in fee - ongoing Daytime Classes Mondays, 9:00-10:30 am Jan. 9–Feb. 13 (6 classes) -&/orFeb. 27–April 2 (6 classes) $39 members / $45 non Evening Classes Mondays, 7:00-8:30 pm Jan. 9–Feb. 13 (6 classes) -&/orFeb. 27–April 2 (6 classes) $39 members / $45 non Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm Jan. 11–Feb. 15 (6 classes) -&/orFeb. 22–Mar. 28 (6 classes) $39 members / $45 non

Zumba Gold A fitness class designed for the active older adult. A fusion of international music, this class tones and sculpts without you even knowing it. This class is based on the principle that a workout should be fun & easy to do.

Experience the rhythms of Merengue, Salsa, Cha Cha, Flamenco, Tango, Rock & Roll and more! If you like to dance, you will love Zumba. Instructor: Nerine Christie. (No class Mon. Feb. 20). Two timeslots available.

Mondays, 12:00-12:45 pm Jan. 9-Mar. 26 (11 classes) $82.50 member / $93.50 non Tuesdays, 12:00-12:45 pm Jan. 10-Mar. 27 (12 classes) $90 member / $102 non Line Dancing Thursday Line Dancing - Beginner group for men and women meet Thursdays 9:15-11:00 am to learn basic steps. Drop-in fee: $1 members / $2 non. Begins: Jan. 12. Convenors: Ray & Marie Burkitt 519-846-0036. Could you help instruct this class? Let us know!

Wednesday Line Dancing- Fun and exercise on Wednesdays 3:00-4:30 pm to learn basic steps. Drop-in fee: $1 members / $2 non. Convenors: Anne & Ron Davidson 519-848-6133.

DAYTIME COMPUTER CLASSES Beginner & Intermediate Computer Course Focusing on Email, Internet searches and basic word processing skills.

Three students per class. Five weeks (one hour classes held twice a week on Mon. afternoons & Wed. mornings). Beginners will be introduced to information required to effectively use their computers. Those with some keyboard experience will learn new skills to help better manage their work, including how to: work with Windows, make your computer “user friendly”, type letters, prepare tables/charts, columns and posters, avoid problems and what to do when mistakes happen. Instruction manual included.

Instructor: Joan Coxhead. Two class times to choose from.

Mon 1:15 pm & Wed 9:30 am Jan. 16–Feb. 15 (10 classes) $85 member / $95 non -orMon 2:30 pm & Wed 10:45 am

Jan. 16–Feb. 15 (10 classes) $85 member / $95 non Mon 1:15 pm & Wed 9:30 am Feb. 27–Mar. 28 (10 classes) $85 member / $95 non -orMon 2:30 pm & Wed 10:45 am Feb. 27–Mar. 28 (10 classes) $85 member / $95 non New Computer Know How – Software & Security Learn what software is on your computer and what it does. This course will allow you to better understand your computer and all the applications it has for you to use. Will include information on printers and security features. Some mouse and keyboard experience needed. Presenter: Dushan Grunstein.

Fri. Jan. 20, 2:00-4:00 pm $22 members / $26 non -orFri. Mar. 30, 2:00-4:00 pm $22 members / $26 non Where the Heck Are My Files?

This two week course will help you find files already on your computer and manage all of your files for future.

It will allow you to manage doc and image files better, know where your files and photos are saved when they download from your camera, internet or saved from a program. This session would be suitable for both mac and pc users. Some computer experience in necessary. Instructor: Dushan Grunstein.

Fridays, 2:00-4:00 pm Feb. 10 & 17 (2 classes) $44 member / $52 non Computer Maintenance – Keep it Running Smoothly Is your computer too slow? Learn how to get peak performance out of your computer. Topics: removing unused programs, defragmenting your hard drive, checking for free HD space, ScanDisc, virus and hacker protection, spyware and adware. Some mouse and keyboard experience needed.

Instructor: Dushan Grunstein.

Fridays, 2:00-4:00 pm Mar. 9-Mar.23 (3 classes) $66 member / $78 non EVENING & WEEKEND COMPUTER CLASSES

The Winter Community Guide can be viewed in flipbook format at www.wellingtonadvertiser.com and www.centrewellington.ca

PAGE EIGHT Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

A Cowboy Christmas Sunday, December 18th - 2pm Assemble at Alma Community Centre, south on County Road 7 to Nesbitt Street, back to the Alma Community Centre

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011 PAGE NINE

Local team receives goalie kit

Helpful kit - Scott Wagler of Josslin Insurance Brokers in Elmira, back row second from right, recently presented a goalie kit to head coach Brandon Murray, right, and the rest of the Drayton Defenders tyke hockey team. The team was one of over 40 in the province to receive a kit through the Goaltender Assist program, a partnership between the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario and the Ontario Minor Hockey Association. submitted photo

Little Rocks and Juniors host bonspiel FERGUS - The Fergus Curling Club hosted its annual Little Rock and Junior bonspiel on Dec. 3.

Participating were teams from Burlington Golf and Country Club, Elora, Galt and K-W Granite Curling Club.

“It was a great day for everyone,” said Lynda Waterhouse, organizer of the Little Rocks.

“The kids played great and it’s nice to see them improving in their skills. Welcoming other teams in a friendly competition was fabulous, and those teams were fantastic too.”

The winner of the Little Rock Bonspiel, sponsored by M&M Meats in Fergus, was the team from Burlington.

The winners of the Junior bonspiel, sponsored by Pizza Delight in Fergus, was the team from K-W Granite Curling Club.

Curling has a long-standing tradition in Fergus. It is a sport for all ages and Waterhouse hopes the youth component will continue to grow.

“It is a great sport that does not require any specific skills other than the desire to learn a great game, make new friends and, most especially, have fun,” Waterhouse said.

The Fergus Curling Club is always interested in new curlers and Little Rocks is a sport specifically for children.

For more information contact the Fergus Curling Club at 519-843-2641.

Little Rocks hosts - Hannah Gordon, Aislynn Garner, Teaghan Laitar and Kayla Gordon welcomed four regional curling clubs to their Little Rocks bonspiel. submitted photo

Ready to rock - The Fergus Curling Club’s junior team (from left: Morgan Dunbar, John Foster, Jacob Laitar and Josh Rogers) hosted four junior curling clubs from the region. submitted photo

Grand Valley hockey offers mitts, hats, blankets

DRAYTON - The local minor hockey association here has received an early Christmas gift.

Last week, Josslin Insurance Brokers, member of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO), delivered a goalie kit to the Drayton Minor Hockey League, as part of the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and IBAO Goaltender Assist program.

IBAO has sponsored the purchase of 40 goalie kits, which include a bag, chest protector, pads, blocker, catcher’s glove, stick and goaltender resources for the chosen OMHA local hockey association.

Scott Wagler of Josslin

Insurance Brokers in Elmira was able to meet with coach Brandon Murray and Drayton Minor Hockey Association president Jerry Roubos to deliver the goalie equipment to the players of the Drayton Defenders tyke team during their practice at the PMD Arena.

The program is an effort to support children who have dreams of becoming a hockey goaltender by providing a set of goaltending equipment to 5to 7-year-old players interested in trying the position.

In addition, IBAO will provide minor hockey associations with goalie resources to aid coaches. Over 40 sets of new equipment will be given to young players across the

province.

“IBAO and Josslin Insurance Brokers are thrilled to support OMHA, an organization focused on building and growing the skills of youths in our communities,” said IBAO chief executive Randy Carroll.

“Brokers are committed to the people in their communities. This type of sponsorship directly relates to that commitment by encouraging youths to be active.”

The program was launched in September and comes with an appropriate tagline to showcase the partnership between OMHA and IBAO: “Just like insurance, the first save is the biggest one. For information about IBAO, visit www.ibao. org or www.ibao.org/blog.

Swanston wins Victor Davis bursary

by Kelly Waterhouse GUELPH - The Victor Davis Memorial Bursary has been awarded to someone who not only has personal ties to the swimming legend himself, but also has family roots in this area.

Jeffrey Swanston, 17, of Newmarket was one of six Canadian swimmers to win the honour at last month’s Canada Cup of Swimming in Toronto.

The award was handed out

by Mel Davis, father of late Olympic champion Victor Davis.

“Winning this bursary was great,” Swanston said. “Victor Davis was very important to my family and I’ve heard stories about him, so it’s a real privilege to win an honour in his name.”

Swanston, whose family has long-standing ties to the Rockwood area, is Canada’s top rated junior backstroke competitor and took home sixth place in the Junior World Championships in Lima, Peru this summer.

The $1,500 bursary is presented annually to young aspiring swimming competitors to help support their Olympic dreams.

“It’s an honour for your hard work to be recognized,” Swanston said. “Plus a bursary to help with your training needs.”

Swanston competes locally, nationally and internationally

Olympic dreams - Jeffrey Swanston, 17, was one of six Canadians to be awarded the Victor Davis Memorial bursary honouring the submitted photo Guelph’s Olympic swimming champion. and plans to train in Mexico over the Christmas holidays.

He says the money will go to support his training.

“This bursary will help me to reach my dreams,” he said.

Swanston’s future goals include vying for a spot on Canada’s Olympic team. “The 2012 Olympic trials are this spring and I am trying to find my way on to the Olympic team, if not for this year, then hopefully for the 2016 or 2020 Olympics.”

He has also been awarded a scholarship to the University

of Southern California next September.

Swanston’s father Alan, formerly of Rockwood, swam with Davis. Today he coaches the Newmarket Stingrays, where his son now competes.

This award, also won by his son Matthew in 2006, has special meaning.

“It’s one more connection to Victor,” Alan said. “I am very blessed to have competed with him nationally and have competed internationally with him ... it was one of the best times of my life.”

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.

Raising funds- While crowds were gathering for the recent Grand Valley Christmas Parade, members of the Grand Valley Twisters gathered at Brewed Awakenings coffee house to promote and sell this year’s fundraising items: “Sockey Hocks.” Hats, mitts, arena blankets and more have been fashioned from hockey socks and jerseys. Modelling some of the products are hockey mom Wendy Caldwell and members of the boys Pee Wee rep team, from left: Jesse Sterling, Aaron Fuller, Andrew Beam and Alex Beam.

The articles are sewn by a team of volunteers and all proceeds support the Grand Valley Twisters jersey fund. For more information, visit facebook.com and search “Sockey Hocks.” photo by Helen Michel

submit online: www.wellingtonadvertiser.com or send to news@wellingtonadvertiser.com

PAGE TEN Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

Looking for that

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Cheques may be redeemed at participating businesses throughout Centre Wellington

One Hot Date!

A two hour private workshop for two.

Enjoy learning the seductive art of glassblowing at our studio located in Elora, Ontario.

Workshops & team building also available. Call or email Tim/Katherine 519-846-8268 tk@blownaway glassstudio.com www.blownaway glassstudio.com

• Elora Tourism 9 East Mill Street, Elora • Scotiabank St. Andrew St. Fergus

Snowy Owl

McElwain Curling at Elora Curling Club (www.eloracurling.com)

Curling supplies from all major suppliers

Puppet is a real head-turner!

The Wellington Advertiser, Friday,

December 2, 2011 PAGE TWENTY

SEVEN

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011 PAGE ELEVEN

AND

ENTERTAINMENT Local author’s research highlights family heritage in village of Limehouse

by Kelly Waterhouse ACTON - Jean Sommerville grew up hearing stories about her great great grandfather John Newton, a man who was a writer, educator and entrepreneur.

Yet it was in writing his biography In His Words that she got to know her ancestor and also Limehouse, the place where he achieved his success.

“This is not just a story about the man, but also about the community,” Sommerville said.

As a retired school teacher from both the Halton and Rockwood area, Sommerville has always had an interest in local history. This is her second book, following The Bands Played On, a history of community music set in the 19th century. She is currently working on a biography of her father.

The impetus to write In His Words came after Sommerville was contacted by a University of Western Ontario professor who found a book of Newton’s poetry published in 1846 and was looking for details about the author.

Newton’s grandsons had donated all of his personal communications to the university in 1946.

“That peaked my interest and I had to start doing more investigating,” she said. “My grandmother had collected a lot of his papers and things that belonged to him.”

Newton’s life story is one of hard work and determination.

Born in Yorkshire, England as one of six children, Newton learned early he was going to have to make his own way in the world after his father abandoned the family.

It was Newton’s positive ideals that inspired Sommerville throughout her research, particularly by this quote: “So the true philosophy of it all is to do the best you can with everything as it turns up.”

Newton began his working career at the age of six, deep in the Yorkshire coal pits, then moved on to textile mills before

the age of nine. What followed was a future where his success was his own making, living in Ireland, France and then immigrating to Canada.

“I think his poetry was autobiographical,” Sommerville explains. “He talks about a young man dissatisfied with conditions at home and decides to go across the ocean...it’s almost as if he is trying to foresee the future.”

Newton’s book of poetry was published in Hamilton in 1846. In it he talks about his journey to the new world and the decision to leave his wife and family behind despite experiencing the loss of a child his wife was carrying. He was off to find them a better life.

“It amazes me, how great a writer he was, given he was uneducated,” Sommerville said.

It was Newton’s own words of hope, written on New Year’s Day in 1843 that inspires Sommerville today: “In short, there is something in man that leads him ever to look forward and think of his present and past sufferings in his anticipations of a more favourable future.”

Sommerville follows Newton’s career, from his early days as a school master.

“He liked that job because he could continue to learn,” she said. That desire to learn is a theme throughout the book.

“I think the fact that he was deprived of an education... he learned to read at church, and that he was self-taught, this allowed him to become a master of other subjects,” Sommerville explained, including the ability to read and write in French.

Unemployed upon arriving in Canada, Newton made his way to Georgetown in search of mill work.

“It was suggested he get a job as a teacher at a new log school just south of Acton, [the Glen Lawson School] and he became the first teacher there in 1842,” Sommerville said.

But Newton’s interest was in the mills. He entered

a partnership to start a mill in St.Anne’s in Nelson Township, then moved to Limehouse, where be bought a saw mill and family farm.

“I think it was so brave of him to come here,” Sommerville said. “He didn’t have knowledge of farming and yet he had his ideas about it too. He was a clever man.”

In 1850 Newton built a water-lime mill to provide cement for the new railway construction and followed that with a woolen mill in 1862.

Despite having four sons, Newton maintained control of his enterprises.

“My feeling is that he was in charge of all these operations, although he had four sons who worked with him, but he owned everything until the day he died,” she explained.

“He mentions at different times that he expected his family to respect him ... but I think it was because he was deprived and didn’t have a father himself. I think he was a good father. He was very prosperous and ambitious.”

Newton would become the first postmaster of Limehouse in 1857 and later became a Justice of the Peace. In 1893, a few years after his death, all of Newton’s businesses and his family home were lost in a fire.

After two years of research, with great support by local historian John MacDonald and her Toronto publisher, Sommerville feels she has reclaimed important pieces of the history of Limehouse and her family’s ancestry. “I’m glad that it’s all been put together, because there is so much early history of Limehouse in it.”

In His Words was launched on Dec. 4 at the community hall in Limehouse, a fitting tribute to Newton, who wrote about the need for a social centre in his community but did not live to see it materialize. “It seemed the right place to launch this book,” Sommerville said.

In His Words is available through Trish Sommerville at 519-853-2101 or via email at actondale@sympatico.ca.

Whiskey and Wickedness: A wild look at Wellington County history

by Kelly Waterhouse FERGUS - Canadian whiskey adds flavor to a new book that explores the wild side of Ontario’s history.

Whiskey and Wickedness, Grey County 1840-1885; Wellington County 1825-1885 is the work of historian Larry Cotton.

After nine years of research, Cotton self-published the book, his fifth in a series featuring Georgian Bay and surrounding areas.

“The book looks at the role that whiskey had in the social and economic development of communities,” Cotton said.

He explains, “Booze was very cheap and very plentiful because most farmers produced grains and took them to a grist mill, where the miller would barter ... and convert the bushels to whiskey. There was a huge market for it. Whiskey was a social lubricant.”

On the other side, Cotton explains whiskey caused many families to lose their farms, an equally relevant piece of the historic puzzle.

It is also an examination of the rise of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union.

“There is a morality thread that weaves its way through,” Cotton said, “like the impacts on women and their families.

There was a lot about domestic violence.”

The whiskey business infiltrated many issues such as settlement, laws and elections.

It also stimulated incidents of violence, riots, deaths and tragedies. All this makes for sensational stories of regional history.

Cotton hopes his book will present a look at the history of the vice in the culture and heritage of early Canadian settlers by telling their stories through research, anecdotes and personal accounts.

“I hope it is a cornerstone of local history, looked at from a different perspective,” he said.

“It’s one piece of the big puzzle and I hope it inspires other people to research and write history.”

Guelph Chamber Choir presents Handel’s Messiah GUELPH - The Guelph Chamber Choir’s season continues with Handel’s Messiah at the River Run Centre on Dec.17 at 8pm.

“Messiah brings us the joy of the season through a tradition that has inspired generations of music lovers,” says Gerald Neufeld, conductor.

“Performed together with some of Canada’s best players on period instruments from Handel’s time, this is a unique performance that brings a freshness to the words and music.”

As in the past three years, tickets are expected to sell out for performance.

The Guelph Chamber Choir is proud to include members Carolynne Godin and Chris Fischer, as soloists for this concert.

Godin has performed as a member and soloist with the Elmer Iseler Singers before

developing her diverse career as soloist in both the concert and theatre worlds with numerous orchestras and choral societies across North America.

Fischer has earned a reputation as a flexible and intelligent interpreter of roles in opera, oratorio and recital. He has appeared as a soloist in Handel’s Messiah more than eighty times, with choirs and orchestras throughout Ontario.

Joining this performance, Jennie Such has performed with opera companies and choral societies across Canada and has been featured in the Mirvish production of The Sound of Music, as well as a film project based on Mozart’s Magic Flute.

Jason Nedecky has won acclaim for his artistry as a soloist in concert and recital engagements. This bilingual baritone has appeared with the International Bach Festival

Toronto, Canadian Opera Company, and most recently was a soloist with Consort Caritatis in Mozart’s Requiem on the Dalmatian Coast and in northern Italy.

Musica Viva Orchestra will be accompanying the performance on period instruments.

In addition to this performance, the choir will be selling their new CD release Remembering, a collection of folks songs celebrating the roots of the genre.

The CD is also available at the following Guelph retail outlets: Ground Floor Music, The Bookshelf, Wild Birds Unlimited, University Pharmacy and Prime Care Pharmacy.

For ticket information, visit www.guelphchamberchoir.ca or call 519-836-5103.

Tickets may also be purchased through the River Run Centre by calling 519-763-

3000 or online at www.riverrun.ca.

Follow us on Twitter! @WellyAdvertiser

Sunday Dec. 18th 9:00am - 11:30 am

Community

ast BrewithakfSANTA $6 adults $3 kids Everyone Welcome

Weekly Activities Mon. 7:30pm - Euchre Tues. 7:30pm - Crib Tues. 7:30pm - Darts Thurs. 7:00pm - Bingo

Fergus Legion Br.275

519-843-2345

www.ferguslegion.ca Hall Rental & Catering Available

Whiskey proof of a wild past - Author Larry Cotton presents his fifth book in a series of Ontario history entitled Whiskey and Wickedness, Grey County 1840-1885; Wellington County 18251885. photo by Kelly Waterhouse Cotton’s personal connection to the research stems from his 1827 family roots in Guelph, where his ancestors opened a tavern.

“I have a local tie to this community and the whiskey dispensing business,” he said.

Though Cotton currently makes his home in the Ottawa region, he will continue to further his research in this area.

His next book, 100 Taverns in 100 Miles will take readers from Toronto north along Yonge Street.

“In Canada, it seems only important people write about what they deem important ... the average Canadian in the bush have no voice. Maybe this book is a voice for the women and children of that time.”

Whiskey and Wickedness, Grey County 1840-1885; Wellington County 18251885 is available through Chapters Indigo, and locally at Roxanne’s Reflections in Fergus, The Bookshelf in Guelph, Millenia in Hanover and Print One in Mount Forest.

PAGE TWELVE Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 16, 2011

DEPARTMENTAL CLOSURES AND CHANGES TO SERVICE Administration Centre OPEN CLOSED

COUNTY WASTE FACILITIES AND COLLECTION All County waste facilities will be open for regular hours of operation during the holidays. Curbside collection will continue on its regularly scheduled day.

December 23 until 12:00 pm December 26 through January 2

Museum and Archives OPEN CLOSED OPEN CLOSED CLOSED

December 23 December 24-27 December 28-30 December 31 January 1-2

9:30 am - 12:00 pm 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Library Branches

FESTIVE R.I.D.E. PROGRAMME UNDERWAY The Ontario Provincial Police Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E.) festive season programme runs November 25 through January 2, 2012.

Impaired driving remains the leading criminal cause of death in Canada. O.P.P. officers will be out in full force across the province in an effort to remove the threat of the impaired drivers and reduce the death toll on Ontario roads.

County of Wellington O.P.P. Officers continually conduct R.I.D.E. spot checks throughout the year, and will also be on the lookout for aggressive drivers, those speeding and people not wearing seat belts.

Help keep our roads safe.

If you drink, don’t drive.

OPEN OPEN CLOSED OPEN OPEN CLOSED OPEN

December 23 December 24 December 25, 26 December 27-30 December 31 January 1 January 2

Regular hours 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

December 23 December 26 - 27 December 28 - 29 December 30 January 2

8:30 am to 12:00 pm

Regular hours 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Regular hours

Social Services OPEN CLOSED OPEN OPEN CLOSED

8:30 am to 4:30 pm 8:30 am to 12:00 pm

Job Postings Résumés will still be accepted during this time via email, fax or the drop box at the Administration Centre.

ALTERNATE FORMATS OF THIS PUBLICATION AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. For more information, contact: Jennifer Cowan, Accessibility Clerk, at: 519.837.2600 x 2373* or Jenniferc@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