arena at the Smiths Falls Community Centre has drawn regional interest as a
B Nepean Knights and Akwesasne Indians lacrosse teams were wielding a ball and lacrosse stick
Knights lost by one point with a final score of 9-10.
OMB dismisses Hershey Drive zoning appeal
BY AMY HOGUE
The Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) appeal filed in opposition to a zoning bylaw amendment approved by council in December 2014 for 1 Hershey Drive, has been dismissed by OMB board member, Marc Denhez. The hearing for the appeal was held on April 15 in council chambers, at which time Denhez heard from both parties in the appeal; the appellant, Mark Greer, and the town’s legal representative, Tony Fleming. At that time, Denhez reserved his decision to allow him time to review the evidence presented by both sides. Denhez’ written decision begins by summarizing the central issues of the appeal, and the evidence presented by both sides. Greer’s principal concerns, as outlined by Denhez, pertained primarily to the information provided by the municipality at the public hearing held in November 2014. Further, Denhez identified
Greer’s issues stemming from concerns for the environment, and his perception of a lack of information provided to the community about the chemical processes involved in the conversion of plastic into oil. Denhez also wrote that Greer alluded to a lack of a proponent, or interested party, to install a plastics recycling facility at that location. Further, Denhez referred to Ms. Krueger’s testimony, given in support of the appellant, Greer. Denhez said Krueger “drew the Board’s attention very quickly to a written opinion from the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit, dated the day after the Town planning staff had submitted its sixteen page planning report supporting the proposal.” Denhez said the Health Unit’s letter essentially stated that more information would be required.
In the municipality’s defence to the appeal, Denhez said in his decision the municipality did not discount
the appellant’s concerns, but instead allowed that the concerns were the reason for the Holding provision, and the project would be subject to the approval process from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC).
Denhez also wrote in his decision the municipality’s information as to the suitability of the location for the development, and the volumes of traffic anticipated, were not contradicted by Greer. Denhez said the municipality’s position was the development agreement would address these issues, including trucking, site cleanup, trailers, and emergencies.
“The concerns raised by the appellant and the [Greer and Krueger] are understandable,” Denhez wrote, “The board agrees with the appellant on the importance of information; and the Board also agrees with Ms. Krueger about
the need for caution.” Denhez went on to say the OMB agrees with the municipality’s approach in addressing those concerns. Denhez deferred to the MOECC in assessing the safety to the environment, while stressing the zoning by-law is “principally intended to address the use of land,” writing that the fact that the operator of the facility is yet to be determined is no basis to reject the zoning by-law amendment.
Denhez wrote that the appellant presented no evidence that the development would contradict the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) or the municipality’s Official Plan (OP).
Page Two
Community Events
Dec. 19
JUNE 6
• 2nd Annual Community Christ-
mas Run - Leaving from Coffee Culture, 6:00 p.m.
• Doef/Bowick Sandor charity golf tournament at the Smiths Falls Golf and Country Club
june 7
• Holiday Movie Night- Rise of the Guardians - Smiths Falls Civitan Club, 7:00 p.m.
• Doors Open Smiths Falls takes place at heritage sites around the city, including town hall.
• Jewel’s Gently Used Clothing Bag Sale. 18 William St. E.
June 13
Dec. 20
• Relay For Life Smiths Falls
• Santa at the County Fair Mall, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Dec. 21
• Santa at the County Fair Mall, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m
• Legion Jamboree - Smiths Falls Canadian Legion Branch 95, 1:00
- 6:30 p.m.
• Movie & Skate - Smiths Falls Youth Arena, 4:50 - 8:00 p.m.
Dec. 22
June 15
• Tim Horton’s Free Skate, Youth Arena, 1:00 p.m.
• Pro Am Golf tournament featuring Brooke Henderson
Dec. 23
June 20
• Holly Days Children Workshop. Heritage House Museum. 1:00 –4:00 p.m.
• The Helthy Active Living Festival returns to downtown Smiths Falls with activities all day.
• Tim Horton’s Free Skate, Youth Arena, 1:00 p.m.
June 27
Dec. 24, 25 & 26
• The Smiths Falls Classic Triathlon/Duathlon
• Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day :)
jan. 2, 2015
• Tim Horton’s Free Skate, Youth Arena, 1:00 p.m.
ONGOING
jan. 5
• Taoist Tai Chi Open House Week at the Seniors Activity Centre, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
EVERY SATURDAY, JUNE 14 - JULY 26: Free Yoga classes in the Park at Centennial Park
MARCH 16 TO MARCH 20: March Break Camp 9 a.m. Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario
PUBLIC SWIMMING FOR ALL AGES AT THE HUB
361 Queen St. in the Gallipeau Centre
Mondays - 6-7 p.m.; Tuesdays - 6-7 p.m.; Fridays 6-7 p.m.; Saturdays - 2-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Drop In Pricing or Membership Fee apply
Sunday ladies dart league
Every Sunday - 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. - RCAFA Hall
MONDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE
Held at the Royal Canadian Legion every Monday evening at 7:00 p.m.
MONDAY BID EUCHRE
Held at the Royal Canadian Legion every Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Canadian Room.
TUESDAY NIGHT BINGO
Smiths Falls Civitan Hall, Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Bingo starts at 7:00 p.m.
THURSDAY NIGHT BINGO
Smiths Falls Legion in the Lancaster Hall, 7:00 p.m.
FRIDAY NIGHT BINGO
Rotary Collegiate Hall, 2 Gould St. 7:00 p.m.
WALKING CONCOURSE
Smiths Falls Memorial Center open 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 7 days a week
MIXED DARTS
Every Thursday from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at the RCAFA Hall on Abbott St. New Players welcome.
Publisher Patricia Krotki pmkrotki@pdgmedia.ca
Editorial Cassie Aylward editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Hanna Lange-Chenier editorial@pdgmedia.ca photographers Jason Code pdg media
Reporters Amy Hogue amy@pdgmedia.ca Kathy Botham editorial@pdgmedia.ca
DBA Banners coming soon!
Downtown Smiths Falls will soon be a little brighter with the introduction of new banners to liven up the streets. The banners, purchased from Canada Flags and Banners, will feature bright and colour floral arrangements (shown here).
community
Police Week brings impaired driving up close and personal for SFDCI students
BY AMY HOGUE
Smiths Falls & District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI) students were given a closer look at impaired driving during an activity held at the school on May 13, in recognition of Police Week.
For more than 40 years, Police Week has been an annual event held during the month of May, running this year from May 10 to May 16. This year Smiths Falls Police joined forces with SFDCI and the Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving (OSAID), Lanark Leeds and Grenville Health Unit, Smiths Falls Municipal Drug Strategy Committee and Smiths Falls Fire Department.
This year’s focus was on impaired driving, a suitable choice according to Constable Dave Murphy, Smiths Falls’ Police Community Services Officer.
“We wanted to do something about impaired driving, because prom is coming up the end of May.”
Toward that end, Murphy set up a series of interactive activities for students to learn firsthand the potential impacts impaired driving can have. One of
those activities involved students completing basic motor function tasks while wearing a pair of goggles that simulated the sensation of feeling drunk.
“They have a game where you have a steel rod you have to navigate through a series of roads and parking lots,” Murphy explained, “So you try without the goggles, then you try it with the goggles.”
Students also staged a mock disaster, with a student ‘victim’ placed on the pavement directly in front of a vehicle, simulating an accident involving impaired driving. This is important, Murphy said, because many young people think of impaired driving only in terms of the impact directly to their own lives, without considering the potential impact to others.
“We added a whole • new element to it,” Murphy said, “It’s not just losing your license for a year or paying fines, now you have to live for the rest of your life knowing you killed somebody . . . It puts a different spin on it so kids get the message better.”
Murphy said seven classes took part in the activities on May 13, hit-
ting a large portion of the high school. Educational booths set up inside the school also provided information to students, as well as an opportunity to win t-shirts after answering a series of questions about impaired driving.
“We made quite a difference on the education piece of it, just to show there is consequences,” Murphy said.
During the event on May 13, the Smiths Falls Police also held a RIDE program on Brockville Street, checking
approximately 120 vehicles. Murphy credits the OSAID committee for their role in the event, stating “they put a lot of effort into it.”
The next step in the education effort will be a presentation at SFDCI by a man convicted of impaired driving causing death.
The guest speaker will speak to students about the impact impaired driving can have on their lives, and the lives of others; the presentation will take place at SFDCI between 10:20 a.m. and 11:20 a.m. on May 28.
Council to discuss contribution to Hub pool
Smiths Falls’ council will be diving into the Hub pool issue at a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting on June 8, where councillors will discuss the merits of further contributions to the pool.
The 2015 budget has $30,000 set aside for the Hub. it’s not yet clear if those funds will be released until further debate takes place at the council table.
Board of Directors’ Chair, Kathy Gilligan, made a presentation to council at a May 11 COW meeting, outlining the strides forward the pool has made since their last visit to council.
Local resident, Tom Foulkes, who has been assisting the Hub board of directors with their business plan revision, was also on hand for the presentation to council.
Since they last met, the Hub has worked to revise their business plan and responding to community and council concerns, Gilligan said. Since January 2015, the Hub has also seen an increase in membership of more than 25 per cent, something Mayor Shawn Pankow considers to be a good
sign, in light of the financial uncertainty of the pool.
“Earlier in the year things looked pretty desperate, this time I think it’s good news,” Pankow said, pointing out that because the municipality is using taxpayer’s dollars, it’s important to ensure the money will fund something that will succeed. That said, Pankow stressed he “recognizes we have a really valuable asset here that doesn’t cost us a lot of money.”
News of a further debt to the Hub’s service provider was a surprise to council. Councillor John Maloney said when the Hub last appeared before council, that information wasn’t presented to them. Gilligan responded that the decision was made to handle that debt on their own, and it wasn’t included in the presentations to council.
Gilman said a new agreement with the service provider was needed soon that will be more favourable to the Hub financially.
Councillor Chris Cummings pointed out he would like to see a Terms of Reference before entertaining contributions beyond those the municipality has already made. Cummings said in his view, the Hub’s business plan is flawed.
“Until I have a Terms of Reference . . . I’m not willing to put other money in,” Cummings said,
At a subsequent meeting on May 25, council agreed to revisit the Hub pool issue at the June 8 COW meeting to make a decision on whether or not the town will make future funding commitments.
Here, Bailey (left) and Katie take part in the activity, attempting to bounce a basketball. DAVE PRINGLE
Electric vehicle charging stations in Smiths Falls would promote eco-tourism
BY AMY HOGUE
Good news could arrive soon for electric vehicle owners.
Smiths Falls council is considering an offer made by Sun Country Highway to provide the municipality with free charging stations in various Smiths Falls locations.
Paul Camire, Sun Country Highway Regional Manager, gave a presentation to council at a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting May 25 to outline his company’s offer: to provide qualifying properties up to three electric vehicle charging stations, at no cost to the municipality. Qualifying locations would include museums, community centres, libraries, and arenas.
Sun Country Highway has a goal to expand electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and encourage the use of electric vehicles across Canada, according to Camire. The company has 2,000 stations nationwide.
The possibility of free EV charging is not only attractive to EV owners, but may be welcome news for local business owners. Hosting an EV charging station in the community can help stimulate the local economy by encour-
While the town would get the charging stations for free, the municipality must foot the installation costs, as well as the cost of the electricity that would be used while electric vehicles were charging, approximately $1 to $5 per charge.
BY AMY HOGUE
It’s been a lengthy process to establish a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in Smiths Falls, but the municipality moved one step closer to completing the process at a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting May 25, with the formation of an evaluation committee.
A CIP is one of the only legal means for a municipality to establish grants, loans, and other incentive programs to encourage local businesses to renovate and improve specific areas within a municipality. The CIP area in Smiths Falls encompasses the heart of Smiths Falls, including the downtown core.
Smiths Falls’ CIP offers property owners access to funding programs for façade, landscape, and signage improvement, planning fees and building permits, environmental site assessment (ESA), or environmental remediation tax assistance. The 2015 budget has
aging “eco-tourism, according to Camire.
He said Smiths Falls would become a stopping place for EV drivers, and while their vehicle is charging, the drivers may do some shopping or get a bite to eat and explore the community.
Mayor Shawn Pankow, who himself owns an electric vehicle, said he has put over 65,000 kilometres on his vehicle, and paid roughly $1,000 in associated hydro costs. He explained that he came across Paul Camire and Sun Country Highway while at an EV convention in North Grenville, and thought of the benefits to encouraging eco-tourism in Smiths Falls.
Pankow said he and his family made a trip to Florida over March
Break, and stopped frequently in communities along the way to charge their vehicle. While waiting for the vehicle to charge, Pankow said he and his family went out and enjoyed the area they were visiting.
“We certainly saw more area of US than we would ordinarily have seen,” Pankow said.
According to Pankow only three years ago there were only roughly 200 EV on the road, and only three models available. Today, there are approximately 11,000 EV on the roads, with a wide selection of models to choose from, from mainstream manufacturers like Nissan and Toyota. “I think strategically where we’re located makes the perfect stopping place,” Pankow said. Ask for clarification on the number of chargers offered, Camire said there would be a maximum of three chargers provided at any single location, but multiple locations within Smiths Falls are also possible. Camire said he recommends two chargers per location, one Tesla charger, and one universal charger suitable for all electric vehicles.
“The first step would be to find a good close location, get an electrician out there, and get a quote,” Camire said, adding he would like to be on hand for the electrician’s visit, should council decide to proceed with the offer, as he could potentially find savings in the installation costs.
CIP moves forward with evaluation committee
$50,000 set aside to fund appropriate CIP projects approved by council. The CIP evaluation committee will administer the application evaluation and approval process for CIP funding, and provide their recommendations to council.
The committee will be made up of eight staff and community members, including: Manager of Economic Development, Amber Coville (in the absence of a manager in that department); Senior Planner, Niki McKernan; Director of Finance, Kerry Costello; representative from Downtown Business Association, Nicola Thomson; a representative from the Chamber of Commerce, Anne Shropshire; one council member; and two citizen appointees, Irv Mazurkiewicz and Christopher Maguire. When considering who will represent council on the committee, Councillor Chris Cummings cautioned councillors before putting their name forward for the role.
“There is a potential for conflict and pecuniary interest here,” Cummings said, pointing to his own conflict as a bank representative.
Mayor Shawn Pankow and Councillor John
Maloney pointed out similar issues of their own, leaving Councillor Lorraine Allen to fill the role of councillor on the committee.
Senior Planner, Niki McKernan, told coun-
“No one pays me for my gas,” Quinn pointed out. Pankow said he feels the time spent in the community and the benefits of eco-tourism outweigh the cost of a dollar or two a charge.
“I’m sold on electric vehicles,” Pankow said, “I’d like to see the day when every vehicle on road could be electric.”
Councillor Dawn Quinn asked if other charging stations charge for the electricity a vehicle uses, and Pankow informed her that vehicle charging stations are located throughout Canada and the US and are free of charge for users. Quinn said she would wait for a staff report on the financial impacts long term, but that she had her doubts.
cil she’s received very positive feedback from the community about the implementation of the CIP and anticipates receiving a number of applications for 2015. Next steps in the process include promoting and advertising the available incentives to gain applications, before reviewing applications and making recommendations to council for approval.
Committee of the Whole to take on Police Services Task Force role
The Police Services Task Force has been eliminated and the Committee of the Whole (COW) will take on that work itself after a May 19 COW meeting saw lengthy debate on the issue.
Discussion about the police services task force led to debate over the Police Service Board’s (PSB) role in the process and questions over whether or not the PSB should take on the scope of work and eliminate the need for the task force altogether.
The decision to establish a task force to explore policing alternatives was made at an April 27 COW meeting, when Mayor Shawn Pankow voiced concern with the rising costs of policing, which he said is currently at $1,150 per household, the most expensive in the province. In 2008 the police services budget was $2.8 million but that in 2015 that budget had increased to $4.7 million, according to Pankow, equating to a 42 per cent increase overall, and a five per cent annual increase.
“From a sustainability standpoint, to continue to raise at that level it isn’t sustainable,” Pankow said
at the April 27 meeting. “When policing represents 30 per cent of the budget, there are other things that don’t get attention.”
Pankow noted there are various options available to the municipality when exploring policing models. The mayor suggested council explore costing with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), or explore collaboration with neighbouring municipalities. Although the exact numbers aren’t known, he said more than 90 per cent of OPP policing in Ontario costs less than $500 per household, as opposed to the $1,150 per household Smiths Falls currently pays.
The topic at the May 19 meeting was the logistics of the task force, including composition and legal issues, but discussion spiralled in a new direction when Smiths Falls Police Chief, Robert Dowdall, stepped forward to address council.
“You really haven’t heard from the Chief of Police in this whole process,” Dowdall told council, “As your Chief, and with great respect, I question the need to explore policing at this time.”
Dowdall said he didn’t see what role a
task force would play with the four items in the scope of work outlined by the task force Terms of Reference, namely to conduct a review of the current policing model; to assess the feasibility of expanding police service to other municipalities; to explore OPP costing; and to evaluate the long-term impacts of remaining with the existing model and service level.
Dowdall said a mechanism is already in place to assess the first and second issues, and that it’s within the purview of the PSB to oversee policing in Smiths Falls. Two councillors sit on the PSB, Dowdall said, and their role is to bring information to and from council. He pointed out council has the option of sending back a police services budget and requesting changes, and an independent body to ensure the municipality is meeting adequacy standards.
“With the mechanism in place, I don’t see what the task force will accomplish,” Dowdall said, adding “the task force is not going to get a price from the OPP . . . They did it once before and we all know the outcome, the Smiths Falls
police is still here.”
Councillor Jay Brennan questioned whether the time is right to explore policing options, given the moratorium on OPP costing. Pankow countered by asking when would be the right time, and suggested the municipality get in line now with the OPP in anticipation of the moratorium being lifted.
“Do we want to be in line when that time comes? I think we have to be,” Pankow said, “When it comes to looking at how the police operates, yes it’s the responsibility of the PSB, when it comes to looking at efficiencies could the PSB do it? Yes. But ultimately [council] govern the police force.”
The mayor pointed out that with 30 per cent of the municipality’s budget going to police services, assessing the long term impact of remaining with the current service is crucial.
“Now’s the time,” Pankow stressed.
Council was unanimously in favour of exploring options with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), after Councilor Chris Cummings suggested an informal survey to gauge interest in ob-
taining costing from the provincial force.
“Let’s put this into perspective,” Cummings said, “This is the work the PSB does, why not just ask the PSB to do that work? Do we really need to have the task force if we have the board?”
Councillor Joe Gallipeau countered by saying that “if we look at the police budget it’s quite obvious we need one (task force)” and stressed he felt there should be an outside, independent review.
“I really think it’s council’s responsibility to determine what policing model we have in our community,” Pankow said, “When dealing with elected officials it’s very important it be a committee of council.”
Pankow pointed out with Lanark County currently exploring policing options with the City of Ottawa, it’s important for council to be establishing a dialogue with the county and surrounding municipalities in the event that arrangement moves forward.
“It sounds like there’s an effort here to derail this whole process,” Pankow said, reiterating that “The task force should be largely comprised
of elected officials.”
Councillor Dawn Quinn suggested the PSB board be given the opportunity to come back with options for reducing their budget.
Karen Hallinan, PSB Chair, agreed with that suggestion, pointing out the board is currently in the process of creating a new business plan, and that public consultation is part of that process, which is information council could use when making decisions about police services.
Hallinan stressed the PSB could have the business plan completed by early fall, in which time the moratorium might be lifted by the OPP.
CAO Malcolm Morris cautioned that the scope of work of the task force is heavy and that the intent of creating a task force was to alleviate some of the burden on the PSB and council, noting that “otherwise it will tie up time at this table” and affect the completion of the service review for the remainder of the municipality’s services.
“With all due respect,” Morris addressed Hallinan, “the scope of work in this terms of reference is beyond your workload right now.”
The Smiths Falls community came together to support Yarrow Viets, a 33 year old wife, mother of two 4 year old twin boys, a registered nurse and wellness coach. Yarrow was diagnosed and is fighting cancer. Sarah Patterson and Jaime Peca along with too many to count volunteers organized “Run Like a Girl” event out of Good Vibrations Gym on Lorne Street.
Ian Traynor along with his wife Dawn, celebrated the grand opening of Get Hooked Fishing Tours in Rideau Ferry on Saturday. Friends and family joined them as they “cut the fishing line” to begin this new venture on the Rideau River. Their store has fishing needs such as lures, fishing gear and live bait. Right across the road, their boat that will escort you to areas of interest on the Rideau to catch the perfect fish.
Councillor Arie Hoogenboom congratulated the Traynor’s and “is thrilled to have new business owners” in the area. Fond of fishing himself, Mr. Hoogenboom was grateful to see something especially on the water.
Star ter Company
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Youth Centre key resource for Smiths Falls young people
BY HANNA LANGE-CHENIER
It’s an age old problem – how to keep kids busy and involved outside school so they don’t run into trouble. That’s part of what the Smiths Falls and District Centre for Youth (SFDCY) does, but many of the programs it offers go much deeper, building life skills and offering lifesaving support.
“A national scan shows that youth are more at risk between the hours of 3 to 6 p.m. and engaging in unhealthy decisions. So [we’re] keeping them occupied and giving them a safe, adult supported place where they can come and feel welcome,” says Adam Gariepy, SFDCY’s executive director.
Garipey says an average of 20 to 25 youth drop in every night out of the 238 that are registered. The centre is open from 3 to 6 p.m.
The most popular program is the after school snack program, where youth can drop in for a bite to eat after school, or help prepare a heartier dinner like spaghetti.
“Youth can really take part in that, so they can get involved in the preparing, the planning, even the shopping,” Gariepy says. “They’re learning to shop on a budget, because we shop on a budget, so teaching them [that] is really important. It’s a great life skill for them to have.”
The centre hosts a fitness program, offering basketball, obstacle courses, and other activities on Tuesday nights in the Duncan J gym, or at Lower Reach Park in summer. SFDCY also hosts a Friday evening dance twice a month, another favourite with youth, Gariepy says.
“[The dances] bring in upwards of about 100 youth a night that aren’t out on the streets,” says Gariepy. “We’re very grateful for the generosity of the Lions Club – they’ve graciously donated their space to us to allow us to hold these dances.”
Gariepy says the centre prides itself on being a safe space for youth who need support.
“It’s an inclusive environment, and youth can get the support they need,” he says. “We’re a resource hub.
So if they have questions they might not be able to ask at school or at home, or they don’t feel safe asking, they can ask those questions here. And we can help them out if we’re equipped to, or we can steer them to the proper resources.”
He says those resources include information on pregnancy, STDs, and sexual orientation, as well as regular info sessions with health nurses and community members.
“And it gives them a place to just come and hang out. They may not have a couch at home. They may not
have a dining room table at home,” notes Gariepy. “Those are worst case scenarios, but it’s a reality that we have here in Smiths Falls and Lanark County, and across Canada really,” he says.
“We pick up, or see, a lot of our hidden homeless youth,” Gariepy said. “Either their home is not safe for many different reasons, or they’ve been kicked out of home and they’re not allowed to live at home so they have nowhere to go.”
The centre hopes to build on the support it offers by empowering youth to get involved and give back to the community. Gariepy himself grew up in Smiths Falls, and came back because he wanted to make a difference in the town.
“We definitely have a core group of youth that are community volunteers and want to make their community better,” he says. “That’s something that we want to instil in them, is that sense of civic pride and civic duty as well.”
As the centre grows and expands its membership, Gariepy says it’s undertaking a number of improvements, including finishing up a kitchen and floor renovation, an upcoming website redesign, and a Facebook page. You can find them on Facebook at Smiths Falls Youth Centre, or at www.sfdcy.ca.
Town to pursue infrastructure funding Staff will be applying for funding for the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program funding, to cover costs for two shovel-ready projects in Smiths Falls. Art Manhire, Manager of Community Services, brought council up to speed on the grant and the projects that have been deemed most suitable. The funding, if received, will be used for the replacement of pedestrian bridges in the basin, and for repairing a spillway damaged by flooding. The deadline for the funding is June 9. Manhire said there is $43 million available for Eastern Ontario. Manhire stressed qualifying projects must be “shovel-ready.” Staff say they hope for a quick turnaround on the funding approval because the repairs on the bridges and spillway were scheduled to be undertaken this summer.
Economic development committee may resume Councillor John Maloney would like to see the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) become active again, preferably as early as June. EDAC hasn’t been active for several years, and Maloney said
Council Briefs: MAY 25, 2015
given the upcoming hiring of an Economic Development manager, the timing might be right for the committee to resume. Maloney suggested staff contact community members who had sat on the committee in the past, or who had expressed interest in sitting on the committee, to fill any vacant seats.
CAO Malcolm Morris cautioned it might be best to wait until the new manager has a chance to settle in. “I caution you not to throw too much work at this person,” Morris warned, adding it could take until June or July to get the new hire in place.
Staff plan for police services review
CAO Morris told council a service review for police services is an extensive project, one which will “dominate our discussion” at COW meetings. With four different options for council to explore, including seeking Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) costing, exploring the possibility of expanding the existing service to serve neighbouring municipalities, seeking out another police services provider or finding efficiencies within the existing services, council will have its hands full. The solution, as Mor-
ris outlined it, is to have a plan in place to prioritize the issues and ensure they are completed in the most efficient manner possible.
Mayor Shawn Pankow pointed out exploring each option individually will take far too long. “If we don’t do them in tandem the process could drag on for a long time,” Pankow noted. Morris agreed, pointing to the service review of all services the municipality will be undertaking in the coming months.
Morris said staff will prepare a plan for the police services review and bring it back to council.
“There’s a lot of work here so we need to be strategic about it,” Morris said.
Service review process takes first step
A service review discussed among council for upwards of three years is finally going to come to fruition. Morris presented council with a lengthy report outlining the scope of the service review, and information for council on the review process, including who will make up the Service Review Team. Morris explained the municipality currently provides 53 services in total, and council will need to make decisions on each of those ser-
More physicians coming to town
A message from the Physician Recruitment Task Force
David Lawrence, Chair of the Smiths Falls Physician Recruitment Task Force, is pleased to announce the recent arrival of four (4) new family physicians in the town of Smiths Falls.
New additions at Cornelia Court Medical Centre include; Dr. Hillary Lawson, Dr. Mahyson Siyih, Dr. Nagu Atmuri.
All of the new physicians at Cornelia Court Medical Centre are accepting new patients.
Dr. Pascale Bartleman recently joined the Smiths Falls Community Health Centre. Dr. Bartleman is
NOT currently accepting new patients.
New patients are asked to register with Care Connect http:// www.health.gov.on.ca/ en/ms/healthcareconnect/public/ or phone 1-800-445-1822.
About the Physician Recruitment Task Force
The Smiths Falls Physician Recruitment Task Force was established in 2011 in response to a shortage of family physicians in the Smiths Falls area.
Our primary objective is to develop and implement strategies for the recruit-
vices, with the assistance of the service review team for each service.
The SRT will be made up the director or manager of the service; the manager or director from another service, front line staff or supervisor, front line staff and finance staff.
Morris noted the finance staff contribution would be ideal, but given staffing restrictions in that department he anticipates any contribution to be on an as-needed basis.
“The first step will be for staff to come back with more details for each service and a prioritization,” Morris explained, noting that the Police Service Review will also be enveloped into this.
“This is great news,” Mayor Shawn Pankow said, “It’s something we’ve all been advocates for . . . It’s been a long, long time coming.”
Town supports North Perth’s protest of lottery regulations
Former Mayor Dennis Staples would approve of council’s agreement to support a resolution passed by North Perth protesting the regulation prohibiting municipalities from raising money through lottery licensing, or accepting money from other groups who have raised money through lottery licensing.
Staples lobbied the province on multiple occasions in an effort to have this restriction removed, but was unsuccessful before his final term of office was completed in 2014.
Councillor Chris Cummings said the regulation is limiting to municipalities, recalling an issue Smiths Falls had in the past where they were unable to receive a donation of a building and washroom from the Kinsmen’s Club because they had been built using funds gained by a lottery.
Council was unanimous in its support of North Perth’s resolution. Smiths Falls’ resolution in support of North Perth will also be forwarded to MPP Randy Hillier, the Attorney General, and other relevant government officials.
Council debates window replacement for town hall
Council debated the pros and cons of vinyl clad versus wooden windows, with cost coming out as one of the biggest factors for consideration.
Community Services Manager, Art Manhire, presented council with estimates for replacing 30 windows at town hall with either wooden windows or vinyl. The estimate for the wooden windows, from the com-
pany Jeldwen, totalled $46,838.04 while the vinyl clad windows, from Marlboro, totalled only $22,580.00, less than half the price.
The cost of the wooden windows are not only more than twice as much as the vinyl, council was told, but it will also require more maintenance than the vinyl alternative, at an approximate cost of $20,000 every five years for repainting and caulking.
Councillor Chris Cummings said that although it wouldn’t be the end of the world for council to choose the vinyl windows, he believes “wood is the preferred option for any heritage building.”
“This is a town building, we should be held to a higher standard,” Cummings said.
Mayor Shawn Pankow said this amounts to, over the 30 year lifespan of the windows, an approximate cost of $150,000 for the wooden windows, versus a $25,000 cost for the vinyl windows.
Council ultimately decided to obtain more detailed quotations for both the vinyl and wooden windows and to return to council with the additional information.
ment and retention of Family Physicians in the Smiths Falls area.
The Task Force is made up of volunteers from local business, healthcare, municipal and economic development sectors. A part time physician recruiter, Carlene MacDonald was hired in July, 2014. The task force works in partnership with Perth Smith Falls District Hospital, the Town of Smiths Falls, the South East Local Health Integration Network and local primary care providers.
BY HOWAIDA SOROURROBERTS
So what’s growing on at Tweed, Smiths Falls?
Everything. Barely two years since the start-up of the medicinal marijuana grow operations and the company has expanded it’s grow space from three rooms to 12 grow rooms.
Staffing in Smiths Falls has swelled from 10 to 70 full time employees with an additional 20 to 40 on-call staff for trimming the weed.
“Our goal is to manage it so we have constant harvests and a steady trimming crew, but right now there is a bit of variability depending on when the plants are ready,” says Mark Zekulin, president of Tweed.
The company’s tagline is ‘Here’s to future growth,’ a prophetic statement as it continues to spread in
Growing like a weed
every possible direction, from investment to product, to space to staffing to information and awareness in the general public and medical community.
“We’ve sponsored major conferences with thousands of doctors attending,” says Zekulin.
In the past year Tweed acquired 32,000 sq meters (35,000 sq feet) of greenhouse operation in Niagara.
“From an operational perspective, we grow, process and distribute from the Smiths Falls site – Niagara is just a grow operation and all the product comes here for processing,” says Jordan Sinclair, communications manager.
In the meantime construction has started at the Niagara site to develop a processing plant, although distribution
will continue from the Smiths Falls site for the foreseeable future.
“The plan is that the call centre, distribution, packaging and sales will be at 1 Hershey Drive,” says Sinclair.
The call centre alone has grown from three members in February 2014 to 16 staff members today, a development that has forced the department to relocate upstairs where there’s more room to grow.
The Smiths Falls plant is a hive of activity, with a sense of organized chaos as construction and renovations continue and new grow rooms and trimming rooms sprout to fill the full 15,600 sq meters (168,000 sq feet) licensed for marijuana production.
They’ve even completed their onsite lab,
although it’s still in the process of fine -tuning.
“We use our own lab for internal processes but the actual stamp of approval on all our products still comes from an outside lab,” explains Zekulin.
Eventually, once i’t’s been approved by Health Canada the lab will be able to issue the necessary approvals, according to Zekulin.
So far patient registration has been in line with expectations, according to Zekulin and while the company is loath to disclose numbers they say they feel comfortable with their share of a market that is according to Health Canada growing at an annual rate of about 10 percent.
“We still need to grow every area of the business as we continue to ramp up production,” Sinclair says.
DBA to expand boundaries to include Davidson Courtyard
BY AMY HOGUE
The Downtown Business Association (DBA) is seeking an expansion of its boundaries to include Davidson Courtyard.
The building, on Russell Street West, was excluded from the DBA boundary when it was originally created which has had longterm ramifications for tenants at that property.
Tracey Pankow, Chair of the DBA, addressed council at a COW meeting on May 25, to explain the reasons behind the request, and the impact it will have on the DBA.
Pankow said when the DBA was formed, the owner of the courtyard requested they be excluded from the DBA, but that the DBA already serviced Russell Street from Beckwith Street. to Maple Street. When the DBA has special events Davidson Courtyard is currently excluded.
According to Pankow,
it was the property owner of Davidson’s Courtyard, Rob Peters, who requested the inclusion into the DBA boundary. By becoming part of the DBA, Peters will be subject to an additional levy that Pankow said will cost roughly $550 annually over and above the existing tax assessment.
Councillor John Maloney pointed out the property is currently for sale, an issue Pankow said doesn’t change the request.
“Even if it does sell, it is beneficial for whoever buys the property to be part of the DBA,” Pankow pointed out, “There is more opportunity to attract businesses there if they’re part of the DBA.”
One of the DBA fall events, Girls Night Out, is an annual fall event which draws approximately 150 shoppers to downtown Smiths Falls and generates
roughly $6,000 revenue downtown. Councillor Lorraine Allen said she finds it a shame for the courtyard, which has a number of businesses that might benefit from the event, to be excluded from that event, and others.
“It’s right in the heart of our town,” Allen said. “It seems
like a natural linkage.”
Councillor Dawn Quinn, who owns a business in the courtyard, said the businesses there “have been waiting patiently for this to happen.”
Pankow asked if given the approaching Girls Night Out event in September, the process could be moved
forward as quickly as possible to allow the courtyard businesses to participate in the event.
Director of Corporate Services, Kerry Costello, told council the process will likely be ongoing through the summer months. A notice will need to be distributed to the DBA Board of Directors, the
DBA membership and the property owner and businesses in the Davidson Courtyard, who will then need to provide information to the clerk. Costello said the notice will be distributed through the mail, the newspaper, social media and the website.
The building, on Russell Street West, was excluded from the DBA boundary when it was originally created which has had long-term ramifications for tenants at that property.
Future of Confederation bridge uncertain
BY AMY HOGUE
The future of Smiths Falls’ Confederation Bridge remains up in the air, pending the completion of a more detailed inspection, at the cost of $12,500 to the municipality.
Smiths Falls’ Manager of Planning and Sustainable Growth, Lynda McKimm, presented a report to council May 11 explaining a bi-annual structural review has found continued corrosion of structural elements of the bridge.
A more detailed inspection of the structure is needed to provide council with recommendations for action, McKimm said, adding a 2011 engineering report indicated the municipality should begin planning for the “replacement, or eventual closure of the bridge.”
Since the 2011 report was issued, staff have been maintaining the bridge while no remedial work has been completed according to McKimm.
The 2011 report identified three alternatives for council, including: replacing the superstructure with a new pedestrian structure at an estimated $500,000; closing the road to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic and remove the superstructure at a cost between $75,000 and $200,000; replacing the structure completely with a new two-lane bridge for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic at a cost of up to $3 million.
Mayor Shawn Pankow questioned whether it’s a good investment to spend another $12,500 only to potentially learn the bridge must be closed, while McKimm responded that the report is necessary to provide more detail and ensure council makes an informed decision.
“This is a really, really bad news story,”
Councillor Lorraine Allen said, “It’s a very important bridge.”
Allen said she’d like to see the bridge used as a pedestrian bridge, stressing, “I don’t want
Cancer survivors walk for Relay For Life
While moving from the United States to Canada four years ago was a major life change for Beth Sinclair, little did she know that an even bigger change lay ahead.
That occurred in the summer of 2013 when the Smiths Falls’ resident received the shocking news that she had breast cancer.
(church)” played a major role in helping her to get through this difficult time of her life.
Likewise, she is quick to point out “the amazing medical care” she received, starting with her initial cancer diagnosis and continuing through the entire treatment process.
on June 13 with light refreshments being served in the Cafetorium at SFDCI. The Survivor Victory Lap will begin immediately following the opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. and, once again, the Gordon Pipe Band will be leading the lap.
this bridge to be gone.”
Councillor Chris Cummings echoed that concern, saying he would rather spend the $500,000 to ensure the linkage is there to the waterfront, particularly in light of the potential for development in that area.
“I know we can’t afford to fix it, but I certainly won’t agree to spend that amount of money to take it away,” Allen said, referring to the costs associated with removing the bridge, or converting it to pedestrian only traffic.
Several councillors questioned whether removing vehicle traffic would render the bridge suitable for pedestrian traffic only, but McKimm said the report is still needed to make that determination. Pankow questioned if there was any risk to the continued use of the bridge, pending the report’s completion, and McKimm assured council the bridge is still safe for pedestrian and vehicle traffic for the moment.
“I felt too young,” the married mother of three relates. “I knew I had to do everything I could to get healthy. My youngest was about to enter junior kindergarten. My oldest was only seven. I never thought ‘why me’ because a lot of people get cancer so why not me.”
After the diagnosis, the next year was like a whirlwind for Sinclair, starting with two surgeries in the fall of 2013 in which she underwent a lumpectomy and then additional lymph nodes had to be removed. She commenced chemotherapy in January 2014, undergoing six rounds of chemo, every three weeks. That was followed by five weeks of radiation in May and June of last year.
As a follow up to the treatments, Sinclair has regular checkups every four to six months. The appointments had become quite routine – “like a yearly checkup with your physician” –until March 2015 when she had another scare.
“There was some fear that I had a new form of breast cancer,” she shares. “The waiting for results was very stressful. But everything was OK.
For Sinclair, having “a caring community, friends, family and faith community
In addition, she says she was fortunate to have a flexible job and supportive team of co-workers “so I worked through the whole experience, which helped me because I kept busy and wasn’t constantly focusing on ‘I have cancer’, though it was always in the back of my mind.”
For the sake of her children, during her cancer fight, Sinclair tried to “live life as normal as possible and do as much as I could. Kids are very resilient.”
She also never forgot the words of her surgeon, “there are going to be hard days but it’s choosing not to stay there.” And, as difficult as it was at times, she made that choice and persevered.
If Sinclair has any advice to offer others based on her experience, it is “to be your own advocate for your health.”
While she was unable to attend the Survivor Reception and Survivor Victory Lap at the Canadian Cancer Society’s (CCS) 2014 Relay For Life (RFL) in Smiths Falls, she is considering being part of this year’s event, which will take place from 6 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, June 13 at the Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI) track.
The Survivor Reception will begin at 4 p.m.
For those who wish to take part in the lap but are unable to walk it, golf carts will be available.
“Survivor doesn’t mean that you have beat cancer,” notes Vicki Christensen who is co-ordinating survivor activities for the Relay. “A survivor is anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer and is fighting, has fought or beat cancer.”
In 2014, 39 survivors took part in the RFL in Smiths Falls and organizers are hoping for a similar turnout this year. While survivors can register the day of the event, they are encouraged to pre-register by contacting the CCS’ Lanark, Leeds and Grenville community office, at 613267-1058, or visit the RFL website at relayforlife.ca/smithsfalls.
This year, survivors are being encouraged to stay for the evening following the Survivor Lap.
“We will have an area where individuals and small groups can congregate this year,” Christensen says. “You don’t need a big team to participate. We would love it if the survivors could take part in the luminary ceremony if they are able. Since the event is only six hours this year, we hope that it will be much more manageable for individuals to stay.”
At least one councillor has suggested using the bridge as a pedestrian bridge, saying she didn’t want it to be torn down.
Column Designing a Garden
By Gemmell’s
Garden Design can seem like a daunting task to many gardeners. It’s hard to know where to even begin or how to tackle an overgrown badly planted garden. Whether you are constructing new garden beds or adding more plants to an existing garden, you don’t have to be a trained landscape architect to create a well designed garden.
Here are some basic design elements that everyone should consider before starting any landscape project: First, choose a general style that reflects your personal taste. Whether it be informal or formal, low maintenance or an English cottage garden, think of gardening like decorating but for the outside. Choose a colour palate that not only appeals to your sense of taste but also compliments the architecture and colour of your home. Put the time and thought into patios, walkways, and decks. These elements are a bigger investment and once built are more difficult to change. Build it big enough and wide enough the first time.
Upgraded walkways are an easy way to make a property more inviting.
The first planting choices for a new garden should be trees and shrubs, these are the bones of your garden. They help give structure to the garden throughout the four seasons. Evergreens are an excellent year-round accent plant and should be incorporated into the front entrance garden of every home. Then shrubs with different flowering times for summer interest. Don’t forget the wide array of shrubs available for fall in vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. When planting shrubs always read the tags. The full grown size needs to be a priority in choosing shrubs otherwise it’s a waste of your time and money to have to remove it in 5 years. Sun and shade are likewise important elements of designing a garden. Take the time to record the amount of light that the area receives. Is it morning or afternoon sun and for how long? Full sun plants will not grow in full shade. Right plant right place is the key to success in gardening.
Do not plant trees too close to the house, hydro lines or other trees. There is nothing more heartbreaking then to have to cut down a mature tree. Also
consider investing in a few mature specimens not just tiny 1 gallon shrubs and trees.
You want a garden to look as if it’s been there for a few years. Keep it simple. Rather than peppering your garden with a myriad of plant specimens, choose a few focal plants as statement pieces, then strategically layer with plantings of a few different varieties. Planting in 3’s or odd numbers is a good rule of thumb (especially with perennials). Take the time to educate yourself in how to keep your shrubs healthy. Researching the correct times to prune, how to properly prune as well as fertilizing are crucial to maintaining beautiful plants. It’s not as complicated as you think! Need help? Drop into your local garden center where trained horticultural staff can assist you in choosing the right plants for your garden. Now it’s time to get out and play in the dirt because life is too short to always have clean fingernails!
Kelly Heath Retail Manager Gemmell’s Garden Centre
It is with pride that the Smiths Falls Gym Stars Gymnastics Club gymnasts show off their medals, ribbons and trophies earned at competitions at Tumblers Gymnastics Club (April 26th and 27th), Club Les Sittelles (May 2nd and 3rd) both in East Ottawa, and at Trillium Gymnastics Club (May 9th and 10th) located in Kingston. Pictured are the Junior and Senior Competitive teams
sports lifestyle
Local athlete returns from Masters National swimming competition
Go big or go home must be Krista Klassen’s personal philosophy; the 52-year-old Merrickville area resident is taking the swimming scene by storm after a 35-year hiatus, recently returning from a Canadian Masters’ National Competition in Montreal, and a World Competition last summer.
Klassen is no stranger to the pool, having swam and competed for the bulk of her childhood. She says she had been looking for an opportunity to get back into swimming for some time for health reasons. When the Hub Pool
& Recreation Centre opened, it was the opportunity Klassen had been waiting for.
“A year and a half ago I was on medication for back pain,” Klassen said in an interview, “But with swimming, the muscles strengthened, and it alleviated the need for medication.”
Because of her work schedule, Klassen said she’s unable to swim with the Masters who practice at the Hub pool, and instead is an affiliated member of Technosport in Ottawa, and competes as part of their club. The Technosport Masters’ Coach, Duane Jones, was Klassen’s coach
when she was only 12 years-old, and has been guiding her practices from afar since she began swimming again.
Klassen said when she first got back into swimming, she took it
slow, doing no more than 1,200 or 1,600 metres with each practice, and only practicing a couple of days a week. Even today, she said she only swims between two and three kilometres, four times a week.
“When I first started swimming again, I could only swim halfway across the pool underwater, now I can swim the whole length,” Klassen said, “My brain remembered what to do, but my muscles didn’t know how to do it.”
Klassen qualified for the 2014 World Competition at a time meet trial last year, where her times came in at the 50 per cent mark. During the competition, Klassen said her event times were at the 30 per cent mark, indicating her improvement.
Competing in events like Nationals and Worlds is challenging, Klassen explained, because the length of the pool varies. In May, Nationals were held in a 25-metre pool, Worlds in a 50-metre pool, and Klassen herself trains in a 20-metre pool. Determining how well she will do at a meet is guesswork since her times will be affected by differ-
ent factors related to the length of the pool.
“Times are hard to measure because of difference in pools,” Klassen explained, noting that the Smiths Falls pool has no diving blocks and is shorter than a typical 25-metre pool, which means more turns.
Klassen said she was thrilled to find she had personal bests with the majority of her times at Nationals in May, and improved over her time from the Worlds competition. Her ranking for individual events were: 4th place for 100 metre breaststroke; 4th place for 50 metre breaststroke; 5th place for 100 Individual Medley (which includes four different strokes: freestyle, back, breast, and butterfly); 6th place for 50 metre freestyle; and 7th place for 50 metre butterfly, 100 metre backstroke and 100 metre freestyle.
“They were all personal bests, except the 100 back,” Klassen said, “I actually set goals after worlds, for the 50 breast, 100 breast and 50 free, and I matched every single time pretty much exactly.”
Klassen managed to slice five seconds off of her 100 breast event,
improving from a 1:37 at Worlds, to a 1:32 at Nationals, which may not be surprising considering Klassen’s best stroke has always been the breaststroke.
Klassen said she would like to qualify for the upcoming Worlds, but has little hope of attending, since the 2015 will be held in Russia. Her long term goals include attending a few meets each year and hopefully a Worlds event a little closer to home. The 2016 Worlds will be held in New Zealand, and the 2017 event in Hungary, all places Klassen said she would love to travel to, if she were able.
“In two years I jump up to the next age category,” Klassen said, “I hope that’s when I can start doing well nationally and moving internationally . . . I can dream.”
Klassen credits staff at the Hub pool for their tremendous support throughout her training and competition, even going so far as to make a big sign in her honour when she returned from the Worlds competition last summer.
“The staff . . . They’re great here,” Klassen said, “Very supportive.”
Krista Klassen has returned to swimming after a 35 year hiatus, quickly stepping into the competition track with a World Masters competition in 2014 and a National competition in May 2015.
Get ready for three day golf marathon, Pro Am and women’s tour
BY AMY HOGUE
Golf enthusiasts will have a chance to get up close and personal with professional athletes, including local celebrities Brooke and Brittany Henderson, at two local golfing events this month.
A Pro Am tournament on June 15 and a two day Canadian Women’s Tour on June 16 and 17 will have a full line-up of activities in store for spectators.
The day will begin early on June 15, with registration for Pro Am teams and a tournament breakfast between 6:30 and 8:00 a.m. Both professionals and amateurs will begin their warm-up at 8:15, with a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. The $1 million shootout will take place at the 18th hole at 3:30 p.m., and a tournament dinner will complete the day between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
The Pro Am event will be a fundraiser for Lanark County Support Services and Doefstrong, with a cheque presentation taking place during the tournament dinner. Neil Doef, a Smiths Falls Bears hockey player who was suffered a se-
rious spinal injury at a game late last year, and his family will be on hand to assist with the event and for the cheque presentation.
Executive Director for the Team Henderson 110% Club, David Dargie, explained exactly why the community should come out to the event in June. To begin with, he said, the event is free for spectators, which itself will be a draw.
“You’re going to see, along with professional golfers, the top amateur golfers from Team Canada,” Dargie said, pointing out the Canadian Women’s Tour is how Brooke got started. Throughout her career, Brooke has won three Canadian Women’s Tour events, the first at 14 years of age, the youngest to ever win a professional golf tournament.
Dargie said that for those interested in the golf scene, the opportunity to be right in the action on the golf course will be a big draw. For those who don’t follow women’s golf, Dargie said people will be surprised to see how well these girls hit the ball.
“It’s an opportunity to get really close to these
golfers,” Dargie said.
Dargie says June 15 would be a good day to approach athletes for autographs or photos, since the competition will be a little different than during the Women’s Tour. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the play will become more serious, and photos and autographs won’t be permitted until the play is finished for the day.
“Monday’s the one that’s really a fan favourite, Tuesday you’re going to see the real competitive golf,” Dargie explained.
A silent and live auction will take place at the June 15 event, and there are some big ticket items up
for grabs, with funds raised going to Lanark County Support Services and Doefstrong.
Some of the items available include sports memorabilia, including a 1967 newspaper page signed by Dave Keon, former captain of the Maple Leafs, a suite at an Ottawa Senators game, a signed Senators jersey, and a hotel package for the Best Western in Perth.
“The stuff is just rolling in,” Dargie said, adding, “I can’t say enough about the way the community has supported this tournament.”
The 110% Club was originally set up to assist with costs related to keeping Brooke
NSA slow pitch
and Brittany on tour, and a portion of the funds raised from the tournament will be used for that purpose.
Dargie said the ultimate goal is to have the 110% Club morph into a foundation.
“All of the successful players have established a foundation to give back to their communities,” Dargie said, “It’s such a classy thing for them to do.”
Community support exceeds expectations
The community has been rallying around Pro Am tournament and Canadian Women’s Tour event. Dargie says so far there’ve been more than 180 volunteers signed up to assist through-
Great news for local Softball sport fans in the Smiths Falls and surrounding area. A massive League organizing effort has been underway for some time now and the results will be reported here. An NSA-sanctioned and insured league-officiated by a registered and carded Umpire is set to go beginning May 26 and every following Tuesday night at the Civitan Lower Diamonds in Smiths Falls.
Game times are 7 p.m., 8:15 p.m., and 9:30 p.m.. The Regular Season consists of 15 games and six teams.
Great night for Smiths Falls NSA Softball League to commence proceedings at the Civitan Lower Reach Diamonds on Tuesday , May 26th 2015. The air was Summer crisp but heavy and in preparing for Pre-Game I immediately thought that the 3 run Home run rule of only 3 per Game might be a challenge this evening. My focus was that all teams were aware of the Regular Season mercy definitions, that is 15 run difference after 4 Innings and 10 after 5 or 6 innings and of course 7 run cap per each Inning except the 7th or last if time open. In endeavoring to accommodate three games every Tuesday night observance of time and mercy restrictions paramount.
Game One saw Beat down
Crew lead early and often over Hitmen combining timely hitting with good pitching and defence. So much so , that after six innings - our first mercy of the 2015 Season was invoked 16-6. Although it was a mercy , it never seemed like it until late in the contest. Two tricky calls were interspersed , a sinking liner to left that although I called Out on a terrific effort by the LF , was at best a hard decision from one Umpire at Home Plate. Secondly, a sharply hit ball handcuffed the 1B and there was not enough control to satisfy me and Safe was I believe, correctly called. Not only were the Players understanding and respectful so were the many local ball fans in attendance.
Game Two was the classic mismatch of the evening. Jays loaded with Tourneylike talent and blessed with hitters, pitching and defensive ability. Can you say rout , as the inexperienced Toshack struggled at every turn. They are new and everyone in this life starts somewhere. A 17-0 mercy was emphatic in its pronouncement. For me personally it was a great time to introduce my long time friend and mentor Umpire Ian Edmunds who was a guest Base Umpire. When I started Umpiring after too many concussions as a Fast Pitch Catcher for the OFL Waxman Scrappers to remember in the 90s , Ian was my mentor. The first five years I missed playing and nobody was a worse "Um-
out the tournament.
Dargie says he had a site visit by the chair of the tournament competition, Mary Beth McKenna, who was impressed with the organization already undertaken for the tournament. He says she took particular notice to the number of volunteers on hand for the event.
“I told her we had about 180 people signed up and she just about fell off her chair,” Dargie said, “She said, ‘this is unheard of’.” In light of the large numbers of spectators, volunteers, sponsors and athletes who will be attending the three days of events, Dargie said there will be parking available at the County Fair Mall, and regular shuttles to and from the event to keep parking needs to a minimum. He says he expects there to be fairly large numbers of spectators watching the event.
“The community’s been so giving and generous in supporting these two particular events,” Dargie said.
pire baiter" than yours truly. My early struggles with Umpiring were mostly attitude, I would chirp at Players??? At times I even compared their play with the call they were complaining about. Fortunately Ian was humble and mature enough to realize that even 4 year olds let alone Umpires have filters. I never do this anymore, not only do Players pay us, its disrespectful and if you "seek respect you most certainly give it". Live and learn.
Game 3 was the feature of the entertainment evening. Two both outstanding pitchers in Indians Danny Wilkinson and Dwayne Laronde were toe to toe. These are two of the most formidable teams in the loop. They both can hit, run and play
the necessary defence. The difference so minisicual that going into the bottom of 6 , it was tied at 9-9. A scratch run by Indians made the final 10-9 and leaving even the most partisan supporter begging for a re-match. Lots of questions emerge from Night One. How long a season will it be for Toshack? How will Jays match either Indians or Spartans? The unknown Beat Down Crew , where do they land in the mix? Hitman need to get off the mat and play better to establish competitiveness. I will happily observe as all of this ongoing drama continues next Tuesday night. See ya there!
Photo: Brooke (left) and Brittany Henderson will be out and about at the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club during the Pro Am tournament and Canadian Women’s Tour.
health starts in the kitchen
Healthy living is all about making the right choices. Critical to making healthy decisions is participating in exercise activities, and being mindful of the impact the foods we are eating has on your body. And if you are trying to shed a few pounds or more, you know that you cannot outrun a bad diet; you get fit in the gym (or wherever you chose to exercise) and you get healthy in the kitchen! At my fitness studio, I see a lot of people who are health conscious and are happy to maintain their fitness levels and body composition, but I also see clients who
just can’t seem to drop those extra pounds, no matter how much they exercise and count calories. They struggle and have tried every imaginable program, but they’re still not getting anywhere. That is because most programs do not address the nutritional deficiencies that happen when we focus on single nutrients rather than diet as a whole. We are overfed but malnourished. I like to give the analogy that if you take your car to the gas station and fill it with water, your tank will be full but you’re not going to be getting anywhere. Likewise, your belly
can be full but your body will be starving for nutrients so it will send a signal to your brain that you are hungry when you really are nutrient-starved.
The key to regaining your health is to eliminate foods that cause inflammation, remove toxins from the body and to eat foods that will promote alkalinity.
We know that most disease has an inflammatory component so when we eliminate foods that cause inflammation, our body has the ability to heal and repair itself, resulting in a greater feeling of well-being. Foods to avoid are addictive foods like re-
fined and processed sugar, gluten, dairy, and soy products-with the exception of certified non-GMO soy like tofu, tempeh, tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce) and edamames. It is also imperative to avoid all processed foods because they are loaded with preservatives, artificial ingredients and additives that are toxic to the body. Toxicity has a huge impact on your health. Every day, we are exposed to toxins that we either ingest, breath in or absorb through our skin. The body has to do something with these toxins so by attempting to protect our organs, it will
By Caroline Foster
create new fat cells to store those toxins. The more toxic you are, the more likely you are to have a weight issue!
Finally, we want to create an alkaline instead of acidic environment in the body in order to prevent disease and premature aging. A diet that works synergistically to nourish, detoxify and alkalinize the body consists of organic whole foods such as vegetables, fruit, legumes and whole grains and nutritionals that follow a rigorous ingredient policy that is gluten-free, vegan and formulated with non -GMO ingredients. Having more energy and vitality, feeling more engaged in life, and being happier can start with making a few small changes in your daily habits and engaging in self-education. Healthy living doesn’t have to be complicated. When you finally get healthy, you will be able to live the life you deserve and be more present for your family and community.
Caroline Foster is a group fitness instructor at CardioFit 4 Life, a certified personal trainer and a Physicians Committee Food for Life instructor.
column: Health is a state of mind
By Darlene
Have many times have you heard the expression “Health is a state of mind and body” and stopped and thought about what does this mean? I mean, let’s face it, how many of us are willing to acknowledge that when we hear “healthy” we think fit and our minds conjure an image of a lean, muscular guy like Tom Brady or his wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen? The definition of health for centuries was defined as “being without disease” and for centuries disease was associated with conditions like chicken pox, cancer, tuberculosis, or any of those conditions that plagued us. The definition of health has evolved and is now defined by the World health Organization as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
Maclachlan
In other words, healthy is not just the outward appearance of how someone may appear. Healthy is about being balancedphysically, mentally and emotionally and some of these elements are difficult to see or assess. How do we go about being healthy? There are a few simple steps we can take to bring balance into our livesto be without dis-ease. Some of these you’ve heard before, maybe some are new to you.
Maybe you’re actually healthier than you think!
1. Nutrition and hydration-Your parents told you to eat your veggies, yes, they were right. Vegetables have been linked to a multitude of benefits from antioxidant properties; the health and function of the organs; cancer fighting properties; prevention of heart disease and the list goes on. What you eat affects
how you feel and importantly how you function. Eat a balanced diet which is eating a variety of the right foods, in the right quantities and in the right proportion.
Hydration is important for the health of the body’s ability to maintain body temperature; for heart health; to prevent dehydration; moves nutrients; and cushions the joints. Water is the preferred fluid for hydration and limit caffeine based fluids and those high in sugar.
2. Get moving! This comes as no surprise that regular physical activity contributes to our overall level of physical health. But physical activity is linked to our emotional and mental health. Physical activity releases the “don’t worry, be happy” chemicals into the bloodstream. It also reduces stress; improves self-confidence; increases our overall level of energy;
stabilizes blood sugar levels; increases creativity, a sense of relaxation and brain power. When we participate in team based activities, we also are building stronger social and interpersonal skills.
3. Be thankful and have some gratitude-If you stop to think about everything you have in your life and focus less
on what you don’t have, our perspective on life changes contributing to reduced anxiety. The effects of gratitude have been studied and have been linked to a stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure; higher levels of positive emotions; more joy, optimism, and happiness; acting with more generosity and compassion; and feel-
ing less lonely and isolated. Health is not what you necessarily see, it is a combination of many factors. We sometimes get caught up in the appearance without stopping to realize that how we feel; how we interact with others are also indicators of our overall level of health and what it means to be healthy.
Anecdotal evidence suggests a healthier town
BY HOWAIDA SOROURROBERTS
It almost seems there are more fitness facilities in Smiths Falls than there are people. Besides the golf arenas, the walking concourse and trails, the skateboard park and the ball diamonds, parks and beaches there are at least six fitness businesses in addition to the martial arts offerings, and active play facilities. It all suggests there’s at least some interest in fitness in Smiths Falls.
“I know that I started out with a group of runners and there were eight of us some seven years ago, now there are tons of us and they’ve branched out to form other groups and take up other pursuits,” says Wendy Hillier, Century 21 broker and Spring Fling organizer.
This year the Spring Fling saw 400 registered runners for a Sunday morning run and the majority of runners were from the Smiths Falls and Perth area.
Most of the fitness businesses agree that there seems to be a shift happening in Smiths Falls, towards healthier lifestyles.
“I get a sense that there are more people worried about their long term health outcomes,” says Amanda Fournier, Insanity instructor with CardioFit 4 Life.
Most of the businesses contacted said they were seeing a lot more clients with health issues that they wanted to work on or correct.
“We see quite a few clients who are borderline diabetic or at onset who have been told by their doctors
that exercise can reverse or stabilize their condition,” says Mark Leach, co-owner of Good Vibrations Gym.
Several other businesses agreed, they’re seeing more of that group and there are other
The Rideau Winery
“I’m seeing people become a lot more aware of the benefits of nutrition and understanding that they can’t outrun a bad diet,” says Caroline Foster, owner and instructor at CardioFit 4 Life.
Although most people agree that weight loss remains the biggest motivator, most of the businesses are noticing that attitudes regarding fitness are changing in Smiths Falls. There also seems to be a new fitness demographic emerging, and one that is quite encouraging.
health related issues that people are now turning to fitness to correct.
“I see people of all different age groups and a lot of people with health issues, like knee problems, back problems and lots of muscular imbalances. I work with clients who suffer from osteoporosis, and I do see more people seeking better health outcomes,” says Natatia Gemmell, owner and chief instructor at One-on-One Fitness.
It isn’t just exercise that’s driving people.
“I’m seeing a lot of younger men and older women,” says Kerri Maidment, proprietor of Generation Fitness. “I don’t see as many middle aged and older men.”
Maidment isn’t the only one who’s noticing that mix.
“Most of the men who come in here want to work independently and they’re usually between 16 and 25 years old, while we see women between 25 and 60 who get involved in more group classes,” says Brian Paquette, owner and chief instructor at Zendragon.
Even the Hub Community Pool is seeing a slight shift in demographics with more young clients coming in, although the clientele still remains more focused on the older, heavier adults with weight bearing concerns.
“I have noticed some younger people starting to come here recently,” says Bonnie Bulmer, chief instructor and Hub Community Pool supervisor. Then there’s all the fitness events, including Canada’s oldest Triathlon, The New Years’ Run, The Spring Fling Running Thing, the Healthy Living Festival, Paddlefest and this year there’s the Hospital Foundation’s Gauntlet coming up in the fall.
Organizers of the festivals agree the events are growing from year to year.
“This is the third year for the Healthy Living Festival and in our first year we had between three and four thousand, last year we had between four and five thousand and this year the interest just among vendors suggests it will bigger still,” says Tracey Pankow, a Healthy Living organizer.
True the festivals are designed to bring people into Smiths Falls, but the energy that they generate and the town’s exposure to all that health focus seems to be rubbing off on the town because the bulk of participants are still from Smiths Falls and immediate surrounds. Now that the town of Smiths Falls has also been awarded a Bronze medal for walkability and is adopting United Leeds and Lanark Food Charter, there seems to be unlimited ways for everyone to jump on the bandwagon – at least this one is geared toward longevity.
Rock climbing at the Healthy Living festival
culture
Returning to Rwanda: How exposure can help us learn from the past
BY HANNA LANGE-CHENIER
One of the best ways to learn is to experience first-hand - the oft repeated slogan of teachers, travellers, and lifelong learners. That’s the idea behind a program called Reflections on Rwanda, which sends a group of Canadian youth to Rwanda every year to learn about the country and the history of its genocide.
I am one of 11 young people selected from across Canada to participate in the program this year, and will travel to Rwanda on May 16 for two weeks.
The country already has a special place in my heart. I spent two months there last summer as part of a journalism internship program offered to final year Carleton University students.
When I visited last year, I was unbelievably nervous. I had very little idea what to
expect, and the concept of ‘Africa’ seemed so foreign. Plus, the country’s history of conflict is still fresh in many adults’ minds, and many of my friends and family were concerned for my safety.
However, after spending two months living in the capital city Kigali and travelling around the country, I’ve come to know Rwanda a little better. I was continually heartened by the kindness of the people, amazed at the hustling and bustling city, and educated myself about many aspects of the country.
Despite making progress in leaps and bounds over the past 20 years, Rwanda is still shadowed by its dark past. The 1994 genocide, officially dubbed the genocide of the Tutsi perpetrated by the Hutu, marked almost 100 days of chaos and slaughter.
Nearly 800,000 to 1 million people were
killed in just a few short months, and the conflict gained little international attention or help until it was too late. Canadian General Romeo Dallaire is well known for his role as Force Commander of the UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda, the UN peacekeeping forces deployed to attempt to stop the conflict. He was critical of the UN decision to withdraw peacekeepers, and his book ‘Shake Hands with the Devil’ gives his account of the genocide, how it changed him, and how it humanity failed in Rwanda during those awful months. Though reading about the conflict is sobering, it’s still easy to dismiss as ancient history that happened in a forgotten African nation - the precise reason many would argue the international community failed to help at the time.
That’s the main rea-
son Shout Canada developed the Reflections on Rwanda program – to allow Canadian youth to learn about the genocide firsthand by visiting the country’s historic sites and genocide memorials, as well as by making connections with the people, from government officials who have made the country’s policy decisions, to grassroots genocide prevention organizations, to locals who experienced the horror of 21 years ago. Despite having already been to Rwanda, I want to dig a little deeper and look a little closer at the genocide, and be able to inform others on what happened and what we can do to make sure it never happens again elsewhere.
The first Reflections on Rwanda trip took place in 2009, and has been running strong ever since. Shout Canada, as a non-profit, prides itself on being
mostly volunteer run, and operates through local partnerships.
No five star hotels, and no vacation time – the trip is explicitly meant for learning and connecting with people on the ground.
This year, the project is introducing a new youth mini-summit, when the group will meet up with National University of Rwanda students to discuss how the genocide has impacted the country today, and how youth can become empowered to make change.
And that’s a second component of the trip – carrying forward what we have learned, and using it to aid in genocide prevention and awareness. Previous trip participants have gone on to write in their local newspapers, give presentations at their high schools and universities, start a micro-finance cooperative between Rwanda and Canada, act as
Art Journey in Smiths Falls
speakers at genocide prevention conferences, and one even wrote their master’s thesis about the tour.
There’s no doubt the subject matter is going to be heavy and upsetting. The program leaders ensure that there is plenty of emotional support. The group gets time together to debrief and talk openly about their feelings. Despite it being distressing to talk about, ignoring what happened will not make it better. Turning a blind eye, like the international community did 21 years ago, will not prevent similar cases from happening elsewhere. It’s necessary to confront the past in order to better the future. So this is the first step on my journey back to visit Rwanda, and the first step on my journey of sharing my experiences and the country’s story with the wider community.
The Art Journey Show & Sale was held in the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre May 23. This group of talented artists vary in many forms of media. A sub committee that began with the Smiths Falls and District Arts and Culture Council. Angie Stoddard’s art work began on the walls of her home. After moving andneeding to leave her work behind, Angie began using a canvas to create her pieces on. Many of Angie’s paintings have hidden details that are only seen when held in the light of a window. More than 20 artisans that belong to this group and this annual event provides an opportunity to share with the community. Randy Webster has been carving animals, mostly birds for more than 20 years and winning competitions in Canada and the United States.
PHOTOS BY KATHY BOTHAM
column: My Crazy Life
By Beckie Brown
This May long weekend my husband and I loaded our kids and teenaged cousin into our minivan and headed for Niagara Falls’ Great Wolf Lodge. We booked this trip months in advance and we’d been anxiously awaiting the time to come. Here are some of the top moments of our crazy time away with three young boys:
1. Twisting around to rub my babies hair because it was the only way to stop his crying.
Members of 585 Rideau Squadron Royal Air Cadets, Smiths Falls, assembled at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre May 20 to practice for their upcoming Annual Cadet Review parade scheduled for May 31. With all the cadets on parade the squadron also took time to recognize members with awards commemorating individual achievements over the past year.
The cadets at participated in cadet competitions and squadron activities, with successes and personal achievements, while some distinguished themselves through personal commitment and demeanour. Those included cadet range, biathlon, effective speaking and exertion competitions. As well, activities like field training exercises, their annual mess and Christmas dinners, and poppy sales in support of The Royal Canadian Legion, kept all squadron members and support staff busy since the training year began last September.
Support from Smiths Falls and surrounding communities of Perth and Merrickville is always greatly appreciated and provide added resources to the cadet program which help to enrich the cadet expe-
2. Listening to our boys laugh while they watched a movie in the back.
3. Hearing “are we there yet?,” For my first time ever - 90 minutes into our 5 hour drive.
4. I get tired a lot quicker than my boys running through the halls of the hotel.
5. Toddlers left to roam without a diaper will poop on the floor.
6. Tired kids never go to sleep.
7. Great Wolf Lodge is “the greatest place on the whole earth”
8. Boys love helicopters
9. Boys love Canada flags 10. Boys love bridges that go over water 11. The alphabet game in a car with a 6 year old can take a lot of time. It is also a lot of fun. 12. “The warm tub is closed. Because I puked in it,” according to a 4-year-old girl.
13. Deep belly rumbles
Overall the time away was so amazing, we have so many moments we will remember. I had moments where I felt so
frustrated during our time away; I am not always proud of it, but tired defiant kids are hard. Sometimes when I have a moment of peace I look at them and I think how crazy is this life with these little people. Today I carry these boys in my arms and my arms get tired. My boys make faces at me and pretend not to hear me when I speak but they are mine and soon enough they will be too big for me to lug around. So for now I will enjoy it for what it is.
Young cadets honoured at awards night
rience for all squadron members and support staff. In particular, 585 Rideau Squadron presented Rob Pyefinch with a certificate of appreciation to acknowledge the financial support provided by Walmart, who once again matched the fundraising efforts of the cadets who canvassed at the Smiths Falls Walmart this past April.
This year 585 Rideau Squadron proudly awarded first year pins to Sgt. Madisen Covell, F/Cpl. Anya Rogers, Cpl. Chris Evans as well as (LACs Cameron Dumouchel, Ryan Frank, Christopher Gibson, Alex
Hart, Riley Johnston, Corbett Marsh and Aidan Scharf. Two year attendance pins were awarded to F/ Cpl Idreese Merhi and Cpls William McNeely and Donald Weatherall, while F/Sgt Justin Fowler was recognized for 4 years of continuous attendance. Finally, Warrant Officers 2nd Class (WO2s) Reggie Hammond and Luke Goralczyk were acknowledged for their steadfast dedication to cadets, since first joining together in the fall of 2009, with respective six year attendance pins. The squadron ceremony continued with the award of a bronze
medallion to WO2 Reggie Hammond in recognition of his third-place finish at the Air Cadet Eastern Ontario Regional Effective Speaking Competition, held at Canadian Forces Base Kingston, this past February. Next, junior and senior squadron members were rewarded for their individual accomplishments in the fields of leadership and marksmanship, each receiving a personalized award plaque. The Junior Leadership Award was accorded to F/Cpl. Nora Bright, while WO2 Reggie Hammond received the Senior Leadership Award. For highest
proficiency with the Daisy Air Rifle, F/ Cpl. Preston York was presented the Junior Marksmanship Award and WO2 Reggie Hammond the Senior Marksmanship Award. Lastly, F/Cpl Nora Bright was recognized for her exceptional attention to detail in maintaining the highest squadron standard for Dress and Deportment, while Cpl. Marc Legere was presented the 585 Rideau Squadron Spirit Award for his outstanding esprit de corps.
Additional individual 585 Rideau Squadron awards will be presented on parade at the Annual Cadet Review
May 3. The parade this year will feature a contingent of the Royal Canadian Air Force Pipes & Drums and Brigadier General Robert Mazzolin as Reviewing Officer, and is open to the public. Those attending are asked to be seated by 12:40 p.m. in the stands at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre and are invited to visit the various squadron displays and speak with the cadets and staff immediately following the parade.
Major Philippe Legere Military Volunteer 585 Rideau Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Smiths Falls
Back: WO2 Reggie Hammond, F/Sgt Justin Fowler, Cpl Donald Weatherall, Cpl Chris Evans, LAC Aidan Scharf, WO2 Luke Goralczyk. Middle: Cpl William McNeely, LAC Cameron Dumouchel, F/Cpl Anya Rogers, F/Cpl Idreese Merhi, LAC Riley Johnston, LAC Alex Hart, LAC Ryan Frank. Front: LAC Corbett Marsh, LAC Christopher Gibson
BY allison graham
Kelly Gaston was always interested in entertaining. Her acting career began when she was a child, performing in front of her family; singing, dancing and telling jokes. She got the laughs and continued with grade school and high school productions, which eventually led to the Sears Drama Festival.
“It was amazing,” she tells me, “doing something different, traveling with a show and meeting new friends.”
After high school, Kelly studied at Loyalist in Belleville and hosted a callin radio program.
“I wanted to give people something different. Yes, its just music, but the common thread is creation.”
From Belleville, she traveled to Australia and studied anthropology and communications at Southern Cross University. In Australia, Kelly was part of an Aboriginal Theater Group, a drumming circle,
Arts & Culture: Putting down roots
and eventually joined a traveling carnival.
“I was the one with the funny accent this time,” she tells me through a laugh. “This was a great opportunity to entertain and to see certain parts of the country.”
Kelly then made her way to the U.K. She worked with an organization called Autism Initiatives, which helped autistic children express themselves through movement, music, colors and costumes.
“It’s about finding what works for an individual.”
When Kelly eventually returned to Canada, she worked with the Upper Canada School Board, in association with a program called PAL (Positive Alternative Learn-
ing). Kelly guided students in organizing a theater production which focused on self-esteem and motivation. “Sometimes, YOU are the biggest obstacle to the achievement of your goals,” she mentions.
Currently, Kelly works at a financial institution in the Smiths Falls area. “I love the interaction with people; hearing about their families and their day.”
One evening in the fall of 2014, she and her partner, John Dorsch, a musician with the band Poetic Justice, attended a concert at The Full Circle Theater in Perth. After the show, Kelly was introduced to director, David Jacklin, who, along with his wife Janice, own the space and have a theater company called
What’s on at The Station Theatre
As of June, the Smiths Falls Station Theatre will have been offering plays, movies and concerts for a full five years. In recognition of this important milestone, the theatre will be putting on two exciting productions. Opening on June 4 is Nana’s Naughty Knickers, written by Katherine DiSavino, directed by Sheila Jasiak and featuring a veteran cast, running until June 14. Then on June 27, at 8 PM, the Station Theatre will present another performance in its new music series, a concert by Patrick Lehman, Canada’s best kept Soul secret.
Nana’s Naughty Knickers is a 90 minute romp for mature audiences. Bridget, played by Nicki Hayes, and her grandmother Sylvia, played by Emily Duberville, are about to become roommates. However, what Bridget saw as a unique opportunity to stay with her favourite Nana in New York for the summer quickly turns into an experience she’ll never forget. It seems her sweet Grandma is running an illegal boutique from her rent-controlled apartment, selling hand-made naughty knickers to senior citizens throughout the five borough area! Will her Nana get arrested - or worseevicted? Will Bridget be able to handle all the excitement? Will the smiles and chuckles continue for the audience beyond the curtain call?
‘Very likely’ is the answer to the last question, because the theme of the play—about old age,
acceptance, and the beauty of looking at things from a different angle—is one that Director Sheila Jasiak is sure will appeal to our audiences. Mix in a love interest for Bridget in the form of Tom, the overly helpful police officer; a very grumpy landlord intent on getting Nana evicted; an employee of Nana’s competition; as well as some hard working UPS delivery people and Nana’s best client and you have an evening of mix -ups, confusions and laugh-out-loud moments that will leave you wanting to call your Nana just to make sure she’s not up to anything naughty. Show times on June 4, 5, 6, 12 & 13 are at 7:30 PM; Sunday Matinees, on June 7 & 14 are at 2 PM. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students (with ID), with special group rates also available. Call the Station Theatre at 613-2830300 for details and to order by credit card. Tickets may be purchased for cash at Special Greetings, 8 Russell Street East, online (smithsfallstheatre.com, via Paypal/Visa/Mastercard), and at the door for cash only (subject to availability, a half-hour before the performance). Patrick Lehman and his band appeared on our stage two years ago and gave the audience a fantastic evening of Soul/R&B music that left patrons on their feet and wanting more. He’s back after touring in Europe and continuing an exciting career that recently took him to the Regional Finals of the CBC Searchlight Music Competition. Tickets for his concert on June 27 are $25; this includes a refreshment of your choice. And to keep the celebration going we are offering a wine cash bar before the concert and at intermission. Don’t miss it! Tickets are available by phone (Visa/Mastercard) and online at www.smithfallstheatre.com. Tickets will also be sold for cash only at the door (subject to availability, a halfhour before the performance). Call 613-2830300 to check. The Station Theatre, we remind you, is located at 53 Victoria Ave., Smiths Falls.
Barn Door Productions. She was encouraged to audition for an upcoming play.
The day before the audition, Kelly had second thoughts.
“I wasn’t sure if it was the right choice for me, but I decided to get off the couch, put some shoes on, and away I went. Well, I got the part and then spent the following two weeks trying to get out of it!”
The Pulitzer prize winning play was called, August: Osage County. Kelly tackled the character, Mattie Fae.
Kelly’s next project is a play called Nanna’s Naughty Knickers, a comedy of errors about a woman who secretly designs naughty undergarments for the mature woman. The produc-
tion is with the Station Theater in Smiths Falls and will run from June 4th-15th.
“I’m having a lot of fun with the cast. My heart pounds, I get nervous, but I feel alive. Using your imagination is the best thing and that’s what theater is about. Theater is my Sudoku. It keeps my brain fresh.”
Kelly says her grandfather once said to her,
“You’re like a potted plant. If you’re watered and have sunlight, you can bloom and grow anywhere. But one day, you will have to put down roots.”
“I’ve traveled a lot throughout the years, but my home is here,” she says. “I’m hearing my grandfather’s voice; it’s time to put down some roots.”
Flare Dance Studio 17th Annual Showcase 2015 Recital
By Kathy Botham
Flare Dance Studio held their 17th Annual Showcase 2015 Dance Recital on May 8th at the Gallipeau Centre.
Hip Hop dancing to “Stay on Ten”; in no particular order: Terry Magee, Chloe Terpstra, Emma Ferrier, Lydia Wilson, Mika Wilson, Amy Dolan, Katelyn Pryce, Sophie Richard, Bailey Boisclair, Sophie Stanistreet and Jessie Goyette
Performing a ballet to “Wonderful”; In no particular order: Tain Hughes, Eva Hughes, Claire Doucette, Maryn Hendry, Chloe Severson, Keri Cass, Victoria Tym, Victoria Tym, Mikaela Swim, Madison Allan, Savanagh Linton and Sahara Linton.
Everywhere I go, conversations are largely centered around food. People are wondering what they should be eating or bragging about how poorly they eat. It’s our favourite topic yet, as a nation, we’re unhealthier than ever before!
This is the first generation whose life span will be shorter than their parents’. And for what? A McHappy meal? Video games? Packaged breakfasts? Soda pop?
Convenience foods?
You don’t need me to tell you that obesity levels have reached epidemic proportions in our society. Our CHILDREN are now being diagnosed with diabetes, on a regular basis, at as young as 8 years of age. 8! It’s criminal.
food & drink
Column Eat good food!
When will we wake up and realize that we are killing ourselves slowly? Can you even imagine what your retirement years will bring if this is the shape you’re in now? I know that I’m on a soapbox here. I hope that I’m scaring you into some action. We can no longer continue to eat the Standard American Diet (fittingly referred to as SAD) sitting on our couches, living in isolation and expect to enjoy good health. It just isn’t possible. We need a revolution and it’s easier than you think. As a nutritionist, I believe in good food. Whole, live, natural foods. The stuff that our grandparents not only ate, but grew.
Food doesn’t even look like food anymore. We have GMO’d it to death and as a result, it will be the death of us.
Step away from the shiny packaging and marketing claims. In my workshops, when I talk about food industry labeling I ask that participants do this: When there is a health claim listed on a food, always ask: “Who is paying for this?” I bet the answer you come up with will not be someone who is looking out for your health and wellness. That’s up to you and you alone. Step towards food in its most natural form. Make a friend of a farmer. We are lucky enough to be surrounded by farms. Many sell grass fed meats, free-range eggs,
and some even sell cheeses made from raw milk. You can purchase baskets of produce that arrive weekly at your door for a very affordable price, often much less than the grocery store. Learn to use what’s readily available to you and use it in its whole form. When fall comes, buy bushels of apples and eat them as they come. Could you grow a small garden? Even a terrace or container garden for some fresh tomatoes and cucumbers? There is great value in this! A term that we have been using at school is “plant forward.” This means that the largest portion of your diet should be made up of plants. Plants will alkalinize the body and
disease cannot live in an alkaline host. That’s a powerful statement. And it’s so do-able.
For your own health, the health of your family, our society and our nation, I am begging you to step away from packaged and convenience foods, fast food, and the like. Think about what you are consuming and what you are feeding your children. Understand that the decisions you are making now will affect how well you live in the years to come.
Commit to making exercise a part of your everyday life. You don’t need to run a marathon or bike across Canada – simply add 30 minutes each day –of something you ENJOY and do things like taking the long way
Column On the farm
When was the last time you picked a basket of strawberries?
Did you read that question carefully? I said “picked,” not “picked up.” Actually PICKED the berries – right from the plants – yourself!
Does the thought take you a long way back on memory lane, to times with Grandpa and Grandma in their
great big 4-door car, with the huge trunk which, of course, had to be full of berry flats before anyone was leaving the berry farm? Or does it conjure up more recent memories of a trip to a Pick-Your-Own (PYO) patch not that long ago, perhaps with your own family in tow?
There is nothing
that signals the start of summer quite like the readiness of juicy, sweet, ruby-red strawberries.
Without a trip to the patch though, you’re really only experiencing part of the enjoyment offered by Strawberry Season in Ontario.
“Why bother to pick my own berries?” You ask. Well, here
are just a few reasons; It’s a chance to get out and enjoy nature. Head on out for some time alone with your thoughts, OR bring the whole family and make some great memories together. Either way, on a breezy, early summer day, the berry patch is a wonderful place to be.
And speaking of family, it’s a great opportunity to let everybody see first-hand where their food comes from.
You’ll save money! Those baskets of berries at the farm stand don’t just wander on up there by themselves. There is a cost to the producer to put them there. When you choose to Pick-YourOwn, the savings are yours for the taking.
The difference can be substantial – up to 40% less for PYO compared with pre-picked.
The final reason – It just feels great to know you’ve picked them yourself. You really can’t put a price on the satisfaction of seeing a return for your labour – even though it may not have even seemed like work at all!
So you’ve done like Grandma and Grandpa and filled your trunk or maybe just a few baskets. What next?
Besides the obvious option of eating nothing but strawberries for breakfast, lunch and dinner until they have disappeared, there’s always the freezing alternative.
Freezing your strawberries is ridiculously
around, going up stairs instead of using the elevator, parking farthest from the store and walking. It all adds up. Make friends. Socialize. Turn off the TV and the computer. Laugh. Relax. Give yourself a break. A return to our roots is in order. Do it now, before it’s too late.
simple. All you need to do after the berries are hulled and rinsed, is lay them out on a cookie sheet, left whole or sliced, set them into the freezer until frozen, and then transfer to freezer bags or containers. That’s it! Then you’ll have a ready supply for smoothies, parfaits, pies, jams, muffins, and anything else you can think of that could use a taste of summer added in. Watch for delicious, local strawberries to be ready around the middle of June. The season typically only lasts for 3 to 4 weeks, so be sure to enjoy the bounty while it is available.
Shannon Miller Miller’s Bay Farm
Vickie Dickson is studying Holistic Nutrition at CSNN in Ottawa.
explore spotlight on business:
BY HANNA LANGE-CHENIER
Many with a green thumb would tell you now is the time to plant your veggie and flower gardens. The soil is thawed, temperatures aren’t too hot, and flowers and produce are freshest right now.
There are many options in the area to buy gardening goods, but also important to buying your season’s flower or vegetable crop is the option to ask an expert at the store before you buy.
And that’s exactly what they do at Andress’ Your Independent Grocer. The store has a seasoned gardening pro on hand, as well as a trained arborist –
in other words, knowing all about flowers and trees is their whole job. The store breaks all stereotypes of ‘grocery store gardening’ by going the extra mile, with one-stop shopping for flowers, flower baskets and vegetables, or trees and bushes, soil and fertilizers, and garden pots and accessories.
“We offer specially grown flowers that are unique to the everyday flower that you might buy at another garden centre,” says Dan Andress, the store’s owner. “PC products are specially grown and are state of the art flowers. They’re usually bigger in size, and the quality is extraordinary.”
Soil is the plant’s
foundation and is critical to success, which is why Andress says the store stocks a variety of soil options. “We have a great selection of any soil need you can think of, from peat moss, to super soil, to black earth, to PC enriched soils, which is a blend of peat moss and topsoil that holds the water well and also has a bit of a fertilizer to it too,” Andress explains.
The second key to successful growing is having a fresh and healthy plant to begin with. “Loads come in weekly and daily, so that ensures the freshness of the product,” says Andress. “This garden centre has been run by
Gardening at Independent
the same fellow since 1996, which is great because it has the consistency of being top quality and very fresh.”
Brian Conlon is the man in charge of the garden centre, and has been managing it for almost 20 years now. He explains that all of the plants that come in are grown locally in Canada, with a focus on quality. “Our growers are from mostly southern Ontario, and they’re top notch growers. It’s Grade A stock, it truly is,” he says. “If the flowers aren’t in bloom, they don’t send them out. Our vegetables come mostly from Quebec and once again, if it’s not in Grade A shape, they’re
not allowed to send it out,” Conlon explains.
If you have any questions, Andress says Brian is the perfect resource. “He knows everything about flowers. He’s the guy. If you need to know what grows best in this area, this region, how to grow it – Brian’s the guy.”
“Also we have a horticulturist on hand too for the growing season and his name is Stan,” says Andress. “Brian’s been at it for almost 20 years now, and having Stan as the horticulturist, you just can’t get any better than that. All your questions will be answered.”
If you’ve browsed the selection and still can’t find a certain
Viewpoint: HOW TO BUILD CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS USING EMAIL MARKETING
BY SHERRY CRUMMY
Your relationship with your customers or clients is build trust and communication, like any relationship. Creating a successful business is done by nurturing and building these relationships. Email marketing can help you get there, but only if you’re doing it correctly. Usually a newsletter is not perceived as a marketing ploy. It’s viewed more as a means of communication and news publication. Newsletters communicate trust, not a blatant advertisement. By being the source of quality content, you further build trust. This sets you apart from the marketing efforts of pushing a sale. Email is effective because it’s permission-based. The people on your email list have
signed up get get message from you. They have bought in. Add to this the prevalence of smartphones and tablets, they’re always listening. In fact, email is the number-one activity for people on their phones. Keep in mind, when people read email on a mobile device they do it quickly. That means your emails must be powerful enough to grab attention. Here are five ways you can use email marketing to build customer relationships:
1. Be Consistent To stay connected, send them a regular newsletter. If you say you’ll send a weekly newsletter, make sure you deliver it weekly. If and when they have a problem that your business can solve, you will be top of mind.
2. Meet Cus-
tomer Needs and Lessen their Pains
Having a relationship with your customers means you know who they are on a personal level. It starts with gaining an understanding of who your customers are, what their needs are, what struggles they experience, and what success looks like for them. Send your customers highly relevant content that satisfies their needs and interests and solves their pains. The more you know about your customers, the better equipped you’ll be to provide them with the content they’re looking for.
3. Be Clear and Direct
Being clear and direct in your emails to your customers only strengthens your relationship. When they sign up to receive emails from you, tell them exactly what they can expect to receive from you. Tell them what their benefit is to signing up for your email. What’s in it for them? When you send emails, make sure you tell subscribers what you want them to do with a clear call to action.
4. Reward you Email Subscribers
Another great way to strengthen customer relationships is to en-
sure that your customers know you value them. Who doesn’t love to feel important and appreciated? By rewarding your customers with exclusive content, information, discounts, etc., you deepen the relationship you have with them.
5. Be Authentic Customers appreciate authenticity from businesses. It builds trust, and they’ll stick with you if you are real with them. Make sure your emails convey an authentic and real approach. You will start to see how much this can strengthen the relationship you have with your customers.
Note: As many of you know, CASL, Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation, came into effect July 1st, 2014. All email addresses you send to must be permission-based, mean-
something, Andress’ garden centre staff will go the extra mile to order it for you. “If we don’t have it, let Brian know. He’s got an array of growers out there so we can hopefully get it for you,” Andress explains. The garden centre is located in the parking lot, and open until midJuly. Andress advises that now is the best time to get your plants, while the planting season is still ideal and the weather isn’t so warm that it will kill flowers and baby plants.
ing the subscribers specifically opted-in to receive your communications. CASL allows for what they call “implied consent,” where you have a business relationship that would require contact. For example, customers, clients, donors, supporters, volunteers or members of an organization from within the past two years. They also allow you to mail to addresses that are published on websites, as long as there’s nothing saying not to send email. Make sure to read all the rules before sending your first email campaign. If you would like to sign up for my newsletter for more Digital Marketing tips and advice, please visit me at www. crummymedia.com.
Taxes for the self-employed column:
BY STEVE BENNETT
In 2014, Statistics Canada estimated that there were more than 2.7 million self-employed Canadians. If you are one of these people or considering becoming your own boss, you should consider these tax implications.
Business structure: A common starting point for a small business is as a sole proprietorship – owned and operated by one person who is responsible for all debts and obligations. Other structures include partnerships, co-operatives, and corporations.
Income from a sole proprietorship is taxed in the hands of the owner in the year it is earned. If the annual income varies greatly from year to year, you could be paying more tax than necessary in years of high income. Operating as a corporation would allow you to average your income over the years, decreasing the overall tax bill. This is one of several advantages that incorporating can offer, but they are often offset by the high cost and complexity.
Registering your business: For a sole proprietorship, registering a business name is re-
quired if you are carrying on a business using anything other than your full name. If you are collecting HST or hiring employees, you will need to register for a federal business number, issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Income tax return: Sole proprietors must report their business income and expenses on their personal income tax return. Income tax, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions, and Employment Insurance (EI) premiums are not deducted from each paycheque, so you pay those deductions when you file your return. For many business owners, this means that you can end up with a balance owing on your income tax return, so it’s important to budget accordingly! Harmonized Sales Tax (HST): Most businesses are required to collect HST when their revenue reaches $30,000 in a given year. There are a number of rules and exceptions about when and if a business must collect HST. There are also several different methods to calculate the HST you must pay to the CRA. The detailed method is the most common, but many small businesses are able to take advantage of the quick method, which, depending on the business, can keep more
money in your pocket. For more information, visit the CRA’s website or consult a professional. Record keeping: Well-kept documentation can save you money on taxes, improve your business planning abilities, and prevent many issues if you are audited. Setting a regular time to do your bookkeeping can make things easier at tax time and help with predicting your balance owing on your tax return. For tax purposes, bookkeeping and other business records must be kept for a minimum of six years from the last year the records were used. This article provides only an overview of the regulations in force at the date of publication, and no action should be taken without consulting the detailed legislation or seeking professional advice. Therefore, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the material contained in this bulletin can be accepted by Steve Bennett or H&R Block Canada, Inc.
Walk on water at Healthy Living Festival
BY AMY HOGUE
On Saturday, June 20, downtown Smiths Falls will once again be home to what is rapidly becoming one of the town’s highlight events of the year. With a day packed full of events, information, shopping, and fun for the whole family, the Healthy Living Festival is one more indicator of how Smiths Falls is embracing healthy living.
The Healthy Living Festival is a celebration of everything to do with living a healthy lifestyle, including mental health, physical fitness and natural living. This one-day event in downtown Smiths Falls features more than 60 vendors offering information and health related food and products for visitors.
“We’re really excited about this year’s event,” Nicola Thomson, DBA Coordinator said, “We have some really fun water equipment coming, and a great seminar line-up to promote healthy living concepts.”
The new water equipment will include mini paddle boats, that kids can use to race around a lagoon or enjoy a re-
laxing paddle boat ride in a larger pool, and Wow Balls, which allow users to literally walk on water inside a giant transparent ball. The best part is, participants don’t get wet while inside the ball and enjoying the experience.
The wide variety of vendors at the festival is another draw for the event, where food and product vendors tend to have a healthy living focus. Thomson said she has just received some exciting news about one of the festival vendors.
“We just found that Lululemon, the exercise clothing manu-
facturer, will be holding a trunk show at the festival,” Thomson said, “People are already excited about Lululemon coming.”
The festival day begins with a Little Thing Running Thing race, a free 500 metre and one kilometre race for children 10 and under.
Opening Ceremonies will take place at 10 a.m. where local MP Scott Reid, will officiate and the award the Healthy Living Festival Ambassador Award, in recognition of an individual who promotes healthy awareness in the community.
At 10:30 a.m. the To-
tally 80’s Move-a-thon begins, a fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, where participants will rock to the 80’s with an hour long workout led by six instructors from regional fitness clubs. Prizes will be awarded for best dressed participants or teams.
Kids will love the Strongman shows at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., when talented performers will demonstrate their strength, and even lift a car for the crowd. Back by popular demand are the Cow Guys, who will also have a performance at 1 p.m. and 2
p.m. A Tai Chi demonstration at 12 p.m. and a Flare Dance and Cheerleading demonstration at 1 p.m.
A variety of seminars will keep adults both informed and entertained throughout the day, with seminars on a wide variety of topics, including: Heart Health; Preparing for a Healthy Baby; Nordic Pole Walking; Healthy Habits for Kids; Smoking Cessation; Three Dangerous Habits and Support Services Seminar.
Last is an all-day 3-on-3 basketball tournament will help keep young people
and adults engaged throughout the day. The tournament, organized by Storm Basketball coach, Todd Spencer, is open to both adults and children of all ages. The adult basketball will take place in the outdoor arena at the Smiths Falls Community Memorial Centre, and the youth tournament will be held on Main Street West, in the heart of the festival.
Other activities include free face painting, buskers, water activities, bouncy castles, obstacle courses, and a rock climbing wall for both adults and children that will give climbers a bird’s eye view of the entire event. When hunger strikes, healthy foods will be available at the food court area on William Street West, where visitors can relax at a picnic table for their meal. For the complete schedule, and information about becoming a vendor, registering for the Totally 80’s Movea-thon or Basketball Tournament, visit the Healthy Living Festival website at www. healthysmithsfalls.ca.
Check out the demonstrations at the festival, this year Flare Dance and Perth & District Taoist Tai Chi will be hosting demonstrations at the festival.
Gallipeau Centre bustling with enterprise, launches Phase 2 of residential development
BY AMY HOGUE
If you build it they will come, and Joe and Diane Gallipeau, and their daughter Tracy, know this first hand.
Nearly four years since the Gallipeau Centre, formerly known as the Rideau Regional Centre, was launched in Smiths Falls, the ambitious project is finally coming into its own.
The centre has come a long way since the Gallipeaus purchased it in July 2011. Since that time, the Gallipeau Centre has been transformed from an 800,000 square foot vacant building with echoing halls to a bustling oasis of entrepreneurship, fitness, recreation, and leisure.
After purchasing the property in 2011, the first order of business for the Gallipeaus was to begin construction on the residential units, in hopes this would entice businesses to settle at the Centre. The move has proven successful,
and a residential area.
“We’re trying to build a healthy lifestyle down here,” Joe stressed, “Residents can go to the gym, the theatre, out for a walk, or get a coffee without leaving the grounds.”
With more than 350 acres of prime agricultural land surrounding the centre itself, there’s a lot to offer residents and business owners. With an on-site community pool, an 850 seat theatre, fitness facilities, a café, and a food hub, to name a few, residents have a wide choice of recreational activities to choose from.
Residents at the Centre don’t only get to look at the beauty of the surrounding land, but can also take advantage of the prime agricultural land by planting their own garden plot with vegetables or flowers.
“You can buy a unit anywhere with four walls and a parking lot, but here you get 350 acres of space,” Joe said.
years have been a testing ground for the family.
“We took a chance, we knew it would be a struggle,” Joe explained, “It’s like any business, if it was easy everyone would do it.”
Although only at 25 per cent capacity for commercial development at the moment, the Gallipeaus have received expressions of interest from businesses throughout the region interested in settling at the Centre. Given the amount of remaining space and opportunities available to entrepreneurs, the family is confident they’re on track to fulfilling their vision.
“We put a lot of time into this place, but it will all be worth it,” Tracy said.
Phase 2 introduces life occupancy lease
The introduction of Phase 2 involves the construction of 40 residential units for sale on a life occupancy lease, a concept similar to a condominium unit. A life occupancy offers
lar to a private home.
The life occupancy lease term is for 49 years, with an option for purchasers to sell the right to occupy the unit at any time. An extension to the life occupancy term can be obtained at no additional fees. Other fees include an applicable monthly maintenance fee, which includes care of common areas accessed by residents, and grounds seasonal maintenance.
Each unit will be individually metered for water, gas and electricity, billable to the occupant of the unit. Other fees will include property taxes proportionate to
the annual realty taxes for the Gallipeau Centre, or between $220 and $280 per month.
Residents who purchase a life lease can customize their unit according to their tastes, by choosing flooring, cabinetry and paint options. Residents are also entitled to discounts at the gym
and theatre services within the building. There will be 40 life occupancy units available for lease, with options between a one bedroom, two bathroom unit or a two bedroom, two bathroom unit, ranging in size from 900 to more than 1500 square feet.
Smiths Falls receives Bronze WALK Friendly Community designation
BY AMY HOGUE
Work undertaken by council last term is on the right track to creating an environment more conducive to pedestrian travel, council learned May 4, when the town received a Bronze WALK Friendly Community designation from Green Communities Foundation program manager, Kate Hall.
“The town of Smiths Falls is working hard to create a culture of walking and active travel,” Hall told council, referring to the 2012 Pedestrian Linkages Study and the Downtown Revitalization Plan, which she said both have the foundations of creating a more pedestrian centered community.
“We’re built to walk,” Hall said, “First and foremost, we are all walkers.”
WALK Friendly Ontario is a program that
encourages municipalities to create places to walk by awarding Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum designations.
The awarding of designations allows municipalities to measure their progress, and encourage them to make safe pedestrian travel a planning and municipal priority.
And walking definitely has its benefits, particularly in rural areas. According to Hall, 24 per cent of pedestrian related fatalities occur in rural areas, and that walk friendly neighbourhoods are associated with less accidents.
Walk friendly communities are also more accessible for the disabled.
“When we design our streets and plan primarily for vehicles, we’re missing out on a large percentage of the demographic,” Hall said, adding 30 per cent of Ontarians don’t have driver’s licenses.
Hall also pointed to the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre indoor walking track as another positive for Smiths Falls, as well as maintaining partnerships with organizations with a healthy living mandate. The Healthy Living Festival was also
singled out by Hall as another encouragement to the community to live an active lifestyle.
“It’s great to have the infrastructure, but sometimes we need encouragement to change behaviours, to change patterns,” Hall said.
Mayor Shawn Pan-
kow received the Bronze WALK Friendly Community designation plaque, “in recognition of our progress in creating and improving the conditions of walking.”
Pankow stressed implementing the recommendations in the Pedestrian Linkages
Study and Downtown Revitalization Plan is “on our horizon,” recognizing that making those changes will help move Smiths Fall towards the next level of designation.
Mayor Shawn Pankow received a Bronze WALK Friendly Community designation from Green Communities Foundation program manager, Kate Hall, during a council meeting on Monday, May 4. Hall said Smiths Falls is moving in the right direction for pedestrian travel.
