Lanark, North Leeds & Grenville - Hometown News August 2020

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YOUR INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWSPAPER - LANARK, NORTH LEEDS & GRENVILLE

AUGUST 2020

North Frontenac Mayor throws hat in the ring for the PC Candidacy regonal - Brian turner editorial@pdgmedia.ca North Frontenac Mayor and former Frontenac County Warden Ron Higgins recently announced his intention to seek the Ontario Progressive Conservative candidacy for the riding of Lanark Frontenac Kingston.

A municipal leader on his second term, Higgins' original plan was to only seek two terms and retire in 2022, but he realized the lack of a local voice on the government side of Queen’s Park (created

by Premier Ford’s ousting of current MPP Randy Hillier from caucus in March of last year) was leaving a major void in the riding that needed to be rectified.

In a conversation with Hometown News, Higgins commented that the nomination process would hopefully be announced with

timelines in September. A former business management consultant, Higgins has put a lot of his previous career experience to work around his local council table and going forward he doesn’t see those approaches changing. “In North Frontenac we went from simply reacting to small groups of individuals appearing before council on various matters to a decision making process that involved unbiased and in-depth research to understand the facts before action was taken.” He thinks that this approach will be critical as the province moves to recover from the major economic impacts of Covid-19.

Did his municipal leadership work? He points to the fact that he and his entire council won their last election by acclamation. “Either no one wanted our jobs or we must

have been doing something right," he noted.

He added that another factor the current pandemic has made very clear is the need for more focus on economic development with the goal of increasing our economy’s sustainability by increasing local and provincial industry and manufacturing. He would also like the province to revisit municipal amalgamations as he believes there is still more to do to increase efficiencies and solve the problem of “too many councilors in local governments”.

He is also a proponent of involving more young people in government decisions even though his own council decided not to continue appointing a student representative as they had in their 2014-2018 term. He believes part of the answer is more education aimed at gener-

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For years, local cyclists met every Monday night at Sport X on Chambers Street for a group ride.

Now the business is closing after 19 years, due to the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo credit: Sport X Facebook page.

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ation Xers and millennials (those born between 1965 and 1996) to impress upon them the importance of their feedback and participation in helping to shape local policies.

If he’s successful in getting the party’s nod as candidate for the June 2022 election, he plans on getting out to meet as many people and organizations as possible, beginning this fall. He knows that many of the concerns he will hear will be mirrored in his own municipality such as the needs for improved and reliable internet service, and how to balance the revenues received from recreational properties against the service expectations of their owners to name only two.

Higgins resides in Ardoch and has been married for 47 years and has 3 children. While he only moved back to this region in 2010, he had no problem winning the mayor’s seat in 2014 and again in 2018.

Photo credit: twitter.com/higginsron

World-wide bicycle shortage is forcing Smiths Falls shop to close Smiths Falls - Chris Must editorial@pdgmedia.ca After 19 years in business on Chambers Street, Sport X is closing its doors due to the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the impact of the pandemic on the business is something that would have been difficult to foresee.

Greg Earl, who owns the business with wife and partner Jenn Bon, said Tuesday, Aug. 4 that Sport X is sold out of bikes and accessories and has no way to replace them.

“There’s no product available,” said Earl. “You can’t get bikes to sell.”

This supply shortage

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has been a problem for Sport X since May. The reason, explained Earl, is that “there’s a worldwide bicycle boom.”

A recent report on CTV stated that, “Bicycle aisles at mass merchandisers like Walmart and Target have been swept clean, and independent shops are doing a brisk business and are selling out of affordable ‘family’ bikes.”

With gyms closed due to the pandemic, fitness buffs turned to bikes as a way to get some exercise and fresh air. The demand for bikes was also driven by parents of children who are stuck at home unable to go to school, and by commuters wanting to avoid crowded bus-

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es and subways.

Earl said Sport X, which has served the local cycling community for close to two decades and has been home base for a weekly cycling club, will stay open until mid-September to sell off its remaining stock.

The owners placed an ad on Kijiji at the end of June offering to sell the business, and explaining that only the business and assets are for sale, since the premises at 11 Chambers St. are rented.

In an email to bike club members and customers on June 30, Earl said, “Jenn and I have decided we need a change and wanted you guys to be the first to know.” www.Hometownnews.ca

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August 2020

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613-284-9826 hometownnews@pdgmedia.ca Cartoon by Patrick Labelle

Severe weather rolls into North Grenville

1874 – Almonte Gazette

Tips From the Almonte Gazette “Travel Section” 1874 1. Eat regularly thrice a day, and never between meals.

2. Take with you one third more-money than you calculate on spending.

3. Take small bills, rather than large, to avoid having bad money passed on you in change.

4. Aim to be at your place of starting at least ten minutes before meal time and - grow

merry and wise at the contemplation of the splutters and mishaps of those who come in at the last minute, and yell a minute later.

5. See that your baggage is on the conveyance before you are yourself.

6. Remember that you make your character as you go along 7. Only bores are boisterous.

8. Do not let the servants excel you in patience and politeness 9. “Please” should commence every request,. and “Thanks” every service done.

10. A lady is always gentle; a gentleman always composed.

11. Never argue on any subject if there are more than one present besides yourself.

12. Never fail to set that person down as ignorant or low-bred, Who, ‘by word of look, or gesture, disparages woman, a clergyman, the Bible or the Sabbath day.

Photo credit: Almonte.com

Hometown News is available at Your Independent Grocers across the region. Pick up your copy at: Andress' (Smiths Falls) • Barnabe's (Perth) Mitchell's (Carleton Place) • Patrice's (Almonte) PLEASE SUPPORT THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES.

While tracking the storm cell that came through the area, professional photographer John Chambers headed out to do some storm chasing and caught up with the crew from Weather Network who were also tracking the storm. Here are his beautiful images of a Microburst in Oxford Mills. For more information on John's photography Visit his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JacPhotographic

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August 2020

community Lanark County moves forward with Climate Action Plan regonal - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca Since adopting its Climate Action Plan in January 2020, Lanark County has taken some decisive actions towards achieving goals for sustainability.

Protecting and enhancing the natural environment is a core strategy in the county’s 2005 Strategic Plan, and the council established “climate and environment” as one of its top five priorities for this term.

“We need a holistic approach with a multitude of strategies in order to reach a level of sustainability in our county,” explains CAO Kurt Greaves. “Climate change and environmental degradation are defining challenges of our time.”

A work plan outline set goals for this year and includes strategies related to grant research and applications, homes, forests and farms, industry, waste diversion, transportation, municipal buildings, and public engagement. A number of actions are already underway.

In collaboration with all the local municipalities and the Town of Smiths Falls, the county is moving forward with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection Program.

A summer intern position is dedicated to moving this work forward. Initial projects are being funded under the provincial Municipal Modernization Fund, and the Climate Action Plan includes current local-tier plans.

Currently, a Transportation survey is being conducted to gather information on the current level of greenhouse gas emissions. The public is

asked to please help us collect the data we need by completing the survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2019LCTravel.

Homeowners can get involved in reducing emissions related to heating and cooling with the “Insulate Lanark” program, which piggybacks the existing “Renovate Lanark” program. Low-income families can apply for funds to help insulate their homes.

Recognizing the effectiveness of trees in carbon capture, cleaning the air and building ecosystems, Lanark County has launched the “One Million Trees” program, which aims to see at least 1 million trees planted in the county over the next 10 years. The program is in conjunction with local conservation authorities, which offer programs for landowners to encourage tree planting. Already over 60,000 trees are being planted in 2020 including 10,000 in Lanark County Community Forests. On June 20, a free seedling giveaway happened at Beckwith Park. Based on the overwhelming positive response an even bigger program will occur in 2021. Anyone who has space for 1,000 plus trees should contact the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA). The RVCA works directly with landowners and plants trees for as little as 15 cents per tree.

Contact Meaghan.mcdonald@rvca.ca for more information.

The forests and farms component of the Climate Action Plan also strives to support the wood industry and help the Alternative Land Use Service to get established in Lanark County, which provides

tree planting and wetland buffers and reduced herbicide use.

Potential initiatives for industry include looking for incentives related to utilities, working with Valley Heartland Community Futures Corporation, communications about best practices and incentives, and financing an energy audit program.

On the waste diversion front, the county is aiming to reduce single-use plastics by distributing reusable produce bags and conducting a communication campaign to encourage their use.

Supporting the provincial move toward supplier-pay recycling, as well as encouraging and expanding compost programs, are also on the agenda. A public survey had over 1,100 responses showing a high level of public interest.

Transportation strategies include promoting ride sharing in partnership with other counties, active transportation (such as Bicycle Month throughout June) and using the website to promote local transportation options and recharge stations.

In May, Lanark County Council approved a motion to support local municipalities with the purchase of one electric or hybrid vehicle by the end of 2022 with a grant matching an available federal subsidy for that purpose. Funding for the program comes from the modernization funding set aside for the Climate Action Plan.

“It is hoped this incentive will encourage local municipalities to add an electric or hybrid vehicle to their fleets,” Mr. Greaves said. “It’s a direct partner-

ship with the local municipalities to take collective action on climate change and help spread the message of the environmental and economic benefits of electric vehicles.”

The county will also be working to incorporate green design standards into new buildings, such as the social housing development in Carleton

Place and the Lanark Lodge redevelopment.

“Engagement is an important part of the Climate Action Plan,” Mr. Greaves added. “Throughout the process we will update the public on our progress and ask for ideas. We all have to work together to make sustainability a reality and to improve our environment.”

“Lanark County is known for taking leadership roles on important issues,” said Warden Brian Campbell (Tay Valley Township Reeve). “The Lanark County Climate Action Plan is important to our future and is designed to help build momentum to together move climate action projects forward.”

Hillier does not believe in face masks regonal - John kessel editorial@pdgmedia.ca “It’s time to end the politicization of Covid-19.”

Defiance. It’s the only word to describe MPP Randy Hillier’s attitude to the warning on the door of the Rideau Ferry Store that masks must be worn inside the shop.

Asked before he walked into the store why he wasn’t wearing one, he replied, “I don’t believe in them.”

No one stopped him from entering. No verbal warning was given by the owner, Louise Hill, who stood at the cash register, who after Hillier paid for his wine, said she didn’t notice he wasn’t wearing a mask.

The Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston independent MPP in an interview after the episode last week said he has talked to experts about mandatory masks who sided with him. “I’ve looked at the data and seriously question the move. I’ve looked at all the information since April.”

Hillier is so upset that he’s started a petition to the Ontario Legislature after hearing from constituents he says have been “denied entry grocery stores, pharmacies, public transit and other establishments for being unable to wear a face mask.”

Randy Hillier points to a sign posted on his office door that reads: Everyone is welcome in this office, whether they choose to wear a mask or not. Please be advised that staff are also not wearing masks, as we have barriers to ensure social distancing. Thank you, Randy Hillier. Photo Credit: Facebook

The petition says that “competent medical professionals across specializations agree the mandating of face masks will not prevent the transmission of Covid-19.”

The petition asks the legislature to strike down policies mandating indoor face mask use.

Hillier also says that people should not have to give reasons for not

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wearing a mask because of “privacy rights.”

His petition cites the World Health Organization’s Center for Disease Control is against wearing face masks for healthy people. The opposition, he says, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

“It’s time to end the politicization of Covid-19,” he says.

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August 2020

community

Radiance of the Ordinary: A local gem

regonal - Susan O’Brien Mactaggart editorial@pdgmedia.ca

As you approach the little hamlet of Burridge, situated just north of the Westport Road on Burridge Road, one building in particular catches your attention. It is of fair size with a very long sloped roof, is painted a soft silver and the grounds around the building are very tidy with wood piles, unusual wood objects and a wattle fence that defines the property line. This is the c.

1885 Burridge Cheese Factory purchased over 30 years ago by Raphael Kerem. It has been lovingly

restored by Raphael and his wife Tanya Deacove, and transformed into his workshop, living quarters, and showroom known as The Radiance of the Ordinary.

Raphael’s childhood was spent in Israel and Kenya where he first learned and appreciated the value of hand-made objects that were such an important part of the cultures of these countries. Later, prompted by his own curiosity, his keen observation and his own creative ability, Raphael mastered cheesemaking and wood joinery in Switzerland. Any discipline that required handcraft and de-

sign work was of particular interest to him and over the years in his travels he developed skills in broom making, coopering, furniture making, oriental painting, copper repoussé and some building design.

Raphael is a true artisan. He is the master of his craft and he is only satisfied with excellence in any of his projects. Raphael has incredible patience and self-discipline and every item he crafts is not only a statement in design perfection but it often tells a story.

The show room of The Radiance of the Ordinary displays many smaller items

Phased reopening for Public Pool

Photo credit: perth.ca

Perth - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca After being closed for more than four months, the Perth & District Indoor Pool reopened its doors in June and, beginning August 4th, families with children will be able to enjoy swimming once again. The indoor pool facility is currently operating with four lane swim times a day and must be booked in advance through the Pool website www.perth.ca/laneswimbooking . High-touch surfaces in the pool building are cleaned on an ongoing basis throughout the day.

The phased reopening plan includes adding Public Swims starting on August 4th which will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 5:00 and 6:00pm for the month of August. For these Public Swims, there will be a maximum of 30 patrons allowed in the facility, on a first-come first-served basis.

Social distancing is required in all areas of the facility and face masks are required

in the lobby, hallways and change rooms, but are to be removed before showering and using the pool. Patron contact information will be collected at the Front Desk for contact tracing.

Pool Manager Darryl Triebner talked about adapting to the new normal: “Despite the maximum occupancy of 12 for our Lane Swim times, many patrons have taken advantage of this and are happy to get back into a routine.” For health reasons swimmers are asked to bring their own lifejackets and kickboards.

New Accessible Aquatic Lift Now the Indoor Pool facility is more accessible than ever – thanks to a newly upgraded aquatic lift – which allows swimmers with mobility challenges to easily access the pool and the benefits of water therapy. Funds for the specialty equipment were raised in part from David Yerxa’s Swimathon and the 2019 Fish Fry events.

The AODA-compliant lift is capable of supporting up to 400 lbs. and is powered

by a hydraulic arm and rechargeable battery.

“Overall, this is a very simple device. This aquatic lift also provides the ability for users to self-operate meaning more comfort and independence.”

Triebner commented. “We are so proud to say that our patrons and swimming community raised some of the funding for this lift. It shows how much we really care for one another.”

Fall Programming As the fall season draws closer, more information in terms of what programming will occur will be announced, including more Aquafit classes. “We will have to wait and see what restrictions we will have in the fall.” Triebner said. The details for September will be announced by August 11th on the Town of Perth Facebook site and the Indoor Pool website at www. perth.ca/pool . For more information, please contact the Pool Front Desk at 613-267-5302 or via email pos@perth.ca.

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from his legendary brooms, to copper dust pans, hand-turned maple bowls and many other items of unique interest. However, this display is only part of Raphael’s present working schedule as he also focuses on private commissions for clients who have requested special items such as dining room tables, fireplace fronts and mantels, chairs, unique doors and other furniture pieces.

Some clients come to him with specific requests for projects but many of his commissions can begin just with a conversation with people interested in his work. From this conversation, a rapport and special relationship is established between the potential client and Raphael. As he learns more about his client, Raphael is then able to suggest designs or decorative elements for a project that would be most meaningful for the client. The end result might be a unique piece of furniture (like the set of doors just mentioned) that tells a specific story and is custom designed for the location in the client’s home.

This client had built an addition on to his home on Bobs Lake and these doors, made of western red cedar, became the portal between the old and new sections of his home. In the early process of any commission, Raphael creates a series of designs of the project that go back and forth to the client as each change or suggestion is considered.

Only when the final design is approved does the work begin. It is also at this point that Raphael can accurately quote on the project and outline the materials and time required.

When I visited his workshop recently he was working on his present commission for three unique chairs. These chairs are of Swiss design, only found in a specific part of Switzerland. Not one nail is used in their construction and the precision of the joins of the legs to the seat to the decorative back is absolute perfection.

Legendary Brooms. Photo credit: Submitted.

The commission also required the names of children to be carved on the back of each chair. Raphael was in the process of practising the carving of the letters that had to follow an arc in the design. As there was no allowance for error on the finished chair back, Raphael was mastering each letter and the position of the chisel as he carved letter after letter over and over on sample pieces of wood. Only when he felt confident that he had mastered each letter would the final carving begin. Such devotion to one’s craft takes unbelievable patience and perfection.

Raphael has used many different woods in his various commissions; in some cases unusual wood pieces found on the client’s property that give an added sentimental value to the project. If decorative paint-

ing is involved in the finishing, this again can give a personal touch. In one instance, Raphael captured a scene of the lake near the client’s home.

The old Burridge Cheese Factory is located at 326 Burridge Road. It is well worth your trip to see Raphael’s showroom and his workshop. The workshop, in the central part of the old cheese factory, is itself a work of art: the precise display of how the tools are stored, the huge working table and the big window that looks out on Burridge Road. Visit Raphael and who knows, maybe you will be his next client. If so, I guarantee that the piece you commission will not only be a work of art but it will be a piece loved and handed down to future generations in your family. You can reach Raphael at 613273-5693.

Presents:

Music by the Basin: Cheers to That!

Smiths Falls - Janelle Labelle editorial@pdgmedia.ca Hometown News and Pickled Pig by the Basin are teaming up to present Music by the Basin, a summer music series in Smiths Falls. Centennial Park under the water tower is the place to be every Friday from 2pm to 11pm (August 7th until September 11th).

There’s not much better than an evening spent sitting by the water, enjoying some great musical talent, and sharing tasty

snacks and a good drink with friends. There is a smashing lineup of local artists to enjoy: Ambre McLean will blow you away with her rich vocals, while the King of the Swingers will definitely keep your toes a-tappin’.

Local favourites Ian and Chris will have the crowd humming and singing along, while soulful duo Wilson and Flan might become your latest obsession. Pop by and enjoy Abandon Eden’s mix of original songs and classic

Abandon Eden is a rock band from South Eastern Ontario that plays classic hard rock and original music. Photo credit: facebook.com/Abandon-Eden-132841376813272/.

Photo credit: Submitted.

rock, and take in the sweet bluegrass sound of Rob McLaren & Rosalyn Dennett. All of these and more will keep the basin rocking - albeit in a safe and socially distant way.

As far as socializing during Covid-19 goes, this just might hit the sweet spot. The park will become a beer garden, so you can relax with a cold beer or a glass of wine at a picnic table with friends in your social bubble.

Delicious food is avail-

able at the Pickled Pig by the Basin (I recommend the loaded Doritos). As it is an outdoor venue, no masks are necessary while seated at your table, but in keeping with current Health Unit guidelines, masks will be required when making purchases at the bar or Pickled Pig by the Basin. Guests are also welcome to bring their own collapsible chairs or picnic blankets to make themselves comfortable on the grass, at a safe 2m dis-

tance from others. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 100 people (not counting performers or servers) in order to allow for social distancing, and attendees are expected to socialize within their social bubbles. Good food, good drinks, great music, and if we’re lucky, Mother Nature might even toss in a few spectacular sunsets before the stars come out. Grab your friends and join the crowd.

Cheers!

King of the Swingers have energized festivals, fairgrounds, street concerts , and parties with their upbeat, energized approach to Dixie music.

Photo credit: facebook.com/King-Of-The-Swingers-855207864493705/

Ambre McLean is an award-winning Canadianborn singer-songwriter based in Smiths Falls, Ontario. McLean is known for her live performances, versatile and distinct singing voice, cross-genre songwriting style and use of live looping technology. Photo credit: Submitted.

Events Around the Region PERTH

SATURDAYS Farmers Market 8:00am to 1:00pm Tay River Basin Downtown www.perthfarmersmarket.ca AUGUST 8 Community Take Out Dinner 4:30pm - 6:00pm Pick-Up from Beckwith Street Parking Lot AUGUST 29 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County Golf Tournament 8:00am - 2:00pm Mapleview Golf Course bigbrothersbigsisterslanark.ca 613-283-0570

SMITHS FALLS

THURSDAYS Knitting in the Park 5:30pm - 6:30pm Centennial Park Movies Under the Stars 7:30pm Centennial Park

Limited to 100 people FRIDAYS Music by the Basin 2:00pm - 11:00pm Centennial Park Limited of 100 people SATURDAYS Buskers 10:00am - 1:00pm but time may vary based on act Centennial Park or Victoria Park - Weather permitting SUNDAYS Russell Street Marketplace 11:00am - 4:00pm Limited of 100 people Entrance at Market St. Written Histories Book Club with Local Authors and Guests 2:00pm - 4:00pm The Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum 11 Old Slys Rd 613-283-6311 heritagehouse@smithsfalls.ca AUGUST 19 Blood Donor Clinic 1:00pm - 4:00pm &

5:00pm - 7:00pm Smiths Falls Legion 7 Main St. E. Book appointment at blood.ca or 1-888-236-6283

WESTPORT

FRIDAYS Hamburger Fridays 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm The Upper Rideau Branch 542 SATURDAYS The Westport Market 9:00 am - 2:00 pm 38 Concession Road westportmarket.on@gmail.com.

AUGUST 6 Steve Marriner 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water facebook.com/stevemarrinermusic Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN AUGUST 7 David James Allen 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm www.davidjamesallen.ca

2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN AUGUST 8 Sin & Swoon 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.sinandswoon.com AUGUST 9, 10, 18 & 23 Eric Uren 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN AUGUST 11 & 25 Nolan Hubbard 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.nolanhubbard.com AUGUST 13 & 20 Spencer Evans The Cove’s Famous “Mr. Jazz Night” 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water

Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN facebook.com/spencer. evans.3572 AUGUST 14 Lonesome Ace Stringband feat.

John Showman & Chris Coole 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.lonesomeace.com AUGUST 15 Young Petty Stones 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN facebook.com/youngpettystones AUGUST 17 & 31 Spencer Scharf 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.spencerscharf.com

AUGUST 21 Jay Smith 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.therealjaysmith.com AUGUST 22 Chris Murphy 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.turpinstrail.com AUGUST 27 & 28 Miss Emily Band 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.themissemily.com AUGUST 29 John Wilberforce 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 2 Bedford on the water Coveinn.com 1-888-COVE-INN www.johnwmusician.com

PICNIC Smiths Falls

EACH BOX CONTAINS: 2 Main Dishes 2 Side Dishes 2 Desserts 2 Drinks Tourism Information Map of ideal picnic locations Collectible gift from the Town of Smiths Falls

Participating Restaurants: WWW.SMITHSFALLS.CA/EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCESMITHSFALLS TOWNOFSMITHSFALLS

Support Local!

Beer, Wine and Spirits Wine in cans Well I guess it had to happen. We've seen wine in boxes and a myriad of alcohol based beverages including fruit, bubbles, shandies and spritzers, so why not wine in a can? Here are a number of them available in LCBO with their taste profiles, so check for availability before going.

All but one are in the 250ml can which equates to about an 8 ounce glass. In restaurants, an average pour is 5 ounces.

Bodacious Moscato Rose 250 mL can LCBO#14868 $3.95 10%abv Made in Ontario by Arterra Wines Canada, Inc. This exotically fruity and floral rose is now available in an easy to chill and serve can. It shows perfumed aromas and

flavours of red berry, ripe apricot and tropical fruit with notes of juicy peach. The palate is fruity, quite sweet and spritzy with bright acidity that keeps the wine fresh and balanced. Too sweet for my palate.

Stel + Mar Premium White Wine 250 mL can LCBO#14776 $4.95 14.5%abv Made in California, USA by Factory Brewing Ltd. This one is extra dry, aromatic and flavourful but it comes in with a punch of alcohol.

Stel + Mar Premium Red Wine 250 mL can LCBO#14775 $4.95 13.7%abv This is bursting with notes of raspberry, blackberry and cherry, followed by hints of

chocolate and vanilla. Dry, medium-bodied and fruity with a long, silky finish. A perfect pairing for barbecued ribs or roasted chicken and potatoes. I liked this one for the variety of flavours that were not too sweet.

Girls' Night Out Rose Sangria 473 mL can | LCBO#: 14873 $4.25 6.5%abv Made in Ontario by Colio Wines of Canada Ltd. From this popular local producer comes a convenient 473 mL can with lighter alcohol content. Enjoy the all-natural flavours of watermelon and a hint of cucumber. Light-bodied and sweet with refreshing crisp berry fruit, this is ideal for backyard entertaining with friends

and family. Serve with lamb skewers, grilled shrimp or pizza. Best price to volume!

Barefoot Rosé Spritzer 250 mL can LCBO#642850 $3.45 5.5%abv Made in California, USA by E. & J. Gallo Winery This one is done in a crisp and berry fruit style.

Pink House Wine Co. Rose VQA 250 mL can LCBO#15499 $4.95 12%abv Made in Ontario, Canada by House Wine Co. Medium salmon colour with an orange hue; notes of candied strawberry, orange blossom and red currants on the nose; off-dry medium sweet with a medium body; flavours of strawberry and sour cherry.

Pelee Island Lola Blush

Rose VQA 250 mL can LCBO#15530 $5.45 11.5%abv Made in Ontario, Canada by Pelee Island Vineyard Inc. This flavourful, light and fruity frizzante is layered with aromas and flavours of strawberry and citrus. Soft with just a hint of sweetness creating a compelling profile.

Babe Rosé With Bubbles 250 mL can LCBO#14681 $3.95 12%abv Made in California, USA by Babe Beverage Co. Made with the addition of lively bubbles, it is a food-friendly adult beverage.

Look for aromas and flavours of raspberry and honeydew melon. Light-bodied and fruity, it is dry with a crisp, clean finish. Enjoy with

Brian Preston

The Travelling Sommelier poached salmon over a bed of rice.

Babe Grigio With Bubbles 250 mL can LCBO#: 14682 $3.95 12% abv Combined with fresh Pinot Grigio, this one has lively effervescence of medium sweetness. Look for notes of apple, peach, melon and pear.

Light-bodied and fruity, it is refreshingly clean on the finish. Serve with grilled chicken, fruit salad or as an aperitif. This was my favourite!

Joiy Rosé Sparkling 250 mL can LCBO#647313 $4.45 12%abv Made in Australia by Archer Mcrae Beverages Ltd. This was a close runner up, dry and done in a light and fruity style; but I was in Kingston to get it.

Food & Drink

Valley Eats; creating partnerships Brian Turner and success in challenging times The Lockmaster’s Taphouse and Patio; Regional - Brian Turner

Let's Eat

A great place to forget life’s challenges

Temporary patio set up until the official one is built. Photo credit: facebook.com/bucknbullcp

Who would have thought that the middle of a pandemic was the best time to open a new restaurant/bar (especially when its streetfront was turned into a construction zone)? Dan Thompson and Rob Dopson of Smiths Falls’ Lockmaster’s Taphouse did, and their timing couldn’t have been better. They swung open their doors (well, OK, their patio gates) on July 3rd and were permitted to welcome guests indoors as well on July 17th when our region entered stage 3 of the province’s relaxation of Covid-19 rules. The original plans didn’t call for as much redesign and renovation as the final product displays, but this entrepreneurial team decided midway through the overhaul, to pull out all the stops.

Don’t let the smallish store front deceive you, it’s much bigger on the inside than it appears. They’re located on the main business street

at 32 Beckwith South (last building before the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre on the same side of the street).

My wife and I attended on a recent warm Friday evening and were ushered to a great table on the patio with perfect views of the historic canal buildings and waterway. Staff went out of their way to provide a warm and friendly atmosphere even though they were following all pandemic protocols such as mask-wearing and physical distancing.

We very quickly forgot there was a health crisis, as Lockmaster’s vibe was positive and energetic.

The menu is pub based with some imaginative surprises. I opted for the fish and chips and my wife selected the Southwest taco salad. My one-piece of fresh haddock was generously sized (you’ve got to be really hungry to tackle the 2 piece platter) and done to perfection in a beer batter

that wasn’t overpowering but instead let the flavour of the fish shine through. The taco salad was loaded with tender chicken breast pieces, three different cheeses, black beans and avocado all served in an edible taco bowl. Their manager tells me these are 2 menu choices that have quickly risen to the top of the favourites list along with the strip-loin steak loaded Lockmaster’s salad and the kiwi all-beef burger served with avocado slices and a fried egg. The bar’s tap choices are as impressive as you might expect from a facility with ‘taphouse’ in the name. Our meal with drinks came to less than $60 before tip.

We also enjoyed some live entertainment from a local singer that simply added to the fun Friday night atmosphere. As for timing, well, a long Covid-19 lockdown has made many area residents and visitors hungry for an evening out with some great food and libations and the 85-seat capacity patio was filled during our visit. They can handle almost the same number inside but current restrictions have the tables widely spread out. They’re also open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to noon with an extremely reasonably priced menu (nothing over $12).

The rest of the week they’re open from 9 am to 11 pm except Sundays when they close at 6 pm. They are wheelchair accessible from both the front entrance on Beckwith South and the rear patio entrance off of a paid parking lot. Free onstreet parking is expected to be plentiful once the municipal construction project is completed. Reservations are a must right now (simply call 613-2050448) and their Facebook page is loaded with news on entertainment and menu specials.

editorial@pdgmedia.ca

When two lads from Pembroke first had their ‘aha’ moment back in January of last year, little did they imagine the fast-paced journey they were about to embark on. Valley Eats President Ryan Schmidt loved and shone in retail sales and chief technical officer Dan Renaud was a wiz at computer programming.

Their discovery moment came when considering what to eat one day, and where to order it, and then bemoaning the fact that smaller municipalities and rural areas like theirs had no independent food delivery services such as those booming in larger urban centers. So they did what any budding valley entrepreneurs would do, they developed their own delivery service and started recruiting restaurants and diners to get on board.

It didn’t take them long to sign on a wide variety of local facilities, because as Ryan put it, “that was our main focus from the beginning and continues to be to this day”. When large national and international delivery app services were getting bad press for excessive user fees being charged to restaurants, Valley Eats worked at supporting local businesses with minimal service charges and no hidden fees or expenses. In the first year of business they put 90% of their app’s revenues back into community eateries. They also helped to promote their food-crafting partners with online publicity and social media presence.

They started with businesses located in Pembroke and quickly moved east bringing on partners in the Whitewater region, Arnprior, Renfrew, Almonte, Perth, and Carleton Place.

And on August 5th they will launch in Smiths Falls with 7 establishments already signed up. Everything was moving along smoothly

Photo credit: Submitted.

with a solid growth rate until March of this year.

When the Covid-19 lockdown hit, Valley Eats’ demand soared. At the beginning of this year, Ryan had projected an average of 300 transactions per day, now they are processing well over 600. The Valley Eats app literally meant the difference between staying open and closing for a lot of small family-owned diners.

Managing this skyrocketing demand was a challenge, especially considering the short time frame involved.

But as Ryan notes, being a small business owner himself, it was easy to relate to the independent restaurants and understand and adapt to their needs.

The Valley Eats team does expect a bit of reduction in transaction numbers once

diners feel comfortable heading out again with all health protocols in place, but many have gotten quite used to the convenience and speed of delivery and the extremely wide variety of choices available on this smart-phone app. It’s a free download from the app store with easy-to-use and intuitive menus complete with customer ratings, average delivery times, and price ranges. Along with locally-owned facilities, Valley Eats offers choices from national and regional chains as well. Help keep our local food businesses doing what they do best; providing great meals and wonderful dining experiences, now as quick and easy as tapping your phone screen.

CC's on the Rideau cautiously approaches Phase 3 reopening Regional - John Kessel editorial@pdgmedia.ca The owner of a Rideau Ferry restaurant has not taken the jump to serving patrons inside her building, part of the province’s Phase 3 reopening strategy during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Erin Van Pelt says CCs on The Rideau will continue serving customers outside for as long as she can.

“It’s easier outside to provide no-contact service. It’s the safest,” she says.

She has expanded her outdoor seating to a grassy

area right beside Lower Rideau Lake with picnic tables and a large tent.

Drummond/North Elmsley township required a building permit for the large canopy. She also had to get an extension to her liquor license to be able to serve booze on the grassy area.

CC’s already has a large screened gazebo, so if it rains or the mosquitos are swarming, she might use it, calling it “Phase 2.5” Van Pelt is in touch with the health department once a week, just to make sure she’s following procedures.

Photo credit: John Kessel

9

August 2020

lifestyle Terry O'Hearn

Perth Inside Out: Lessons learned from the Spanish Flu - or not

When this column appeared in November, 2018, the subject was the deadly pandemic which began in 1918, commonly known as the Spanish Flu. My closing remark was: “Stay healthy, my friends”, little knowing that another global pandemic would rear its ugly head so soon in far-off Asia, and spread like wildfire around the world.

On Jan. 10 past, the World Health Organization (WHO) first issued guidance on what was called novel coronavirus at the time. The virus was first discovered in Wuhan, China, in December of 2019.

The Town of Perth was quick to follow the lead of Premier Doug Ford and the Province of Ontario, when Mayor John Fenik declared a state of emergency on April 7 for the COVID-19 virus. Ontario had made the declaration on March 17, and by April 15 all Canadi-

an provinces and territories had followed suit.

The terrifying thought is with us now that the toll taken by Coronavirus could be worse than that pandemic of more than 100 years ago. With each passing day, we in Perth watch helplessly as autocratic so-called leaders around the globe thumb their noses at the scientific evidence presented to them, and act out of their own personal and political ambitions. Canada has managed the crisis rather well, and recently the US media has been lauding our country on taking swift and decisive actions relating to preventing spread of the virus.

Generally, Perthites have been adhering to the recommended guidelines to protect themselves and others from the deadly virus.

In retail outlets, the few unmasked can be seen scurrying about with their heads down, hoping they won’t be shamed in public, and certainly there are glaring looks towards them. We thank all frontline personnel and retail workers alike who are taking care of us.

When I suggest that it is possible the pandemic may wreak more havoc than the one of 1918, we must

consider several factors, including the fact that in 1918 there was poor hygiene, little or no effective medical treatment, and World War I soldiers were carrying the virus world-wide.

However, those factors are offset by the fact that the world population has quadrupled to 7.8 billion at last count, with a much denser urban population overall.

Hopefully, the final death toll and long-lasting effects of the virus will not be as great as that of the 1918 version, considering there will probably be a vaccine available soon, and testing should improve.

It is interesting to note that author and historian Kenneth C. Davis said in a recent essay for WBUR News in Boston, that there are three central lessons we can take from the Spanish flu of old: “One of the real important points of this is that lies and censorship and propaganda, (in 1918) even, were very critical in the spread of the disease. It was believed, for instance, that the Germans might have started this, that they had given us poison water or that Bayer, a German company, had tainted aspirin, its wonder drug.

An ominous sign greets customers at the Perth LCBO agency store. Perth and the rest of Canada led much of the world in declaring a state of emergency. Photo credit: Terry O'Hearn.

“The next point is very important: ignoring science. There were clearly scientists, doctors, medical people who were advocating a much more aggressive response to this and certainly avoiding large crowds.

Those were ignored partly because of the war …

“And finally, misplaced priorities. In 1918, the priority was winning the war, so troops kept being shipped off even though doctors said don't pack these soldiers onto troopships.”

He concluded the article thus: “So, we take those lessons and we look at it today.

What did we learn? Boston tried to shut down. It was

too late. Other cities were much more careful about social distancing, and they did flatten the curve, a modern term. But it's a very important lesson to learn that if we go too soon towards relaxing those measures, it can be very, very costly. It certainly was in 1918.”

If the world did not learn from the Spanish flu, there was another dire warning sign in 2009, when an H1N1 strain surfaced in Mexico.

The swine flu (it usually infects pigs) spread to the rest of the world, and by June of that year it was declared a pandemic by WHO. Dr. Jorge Parada, an infectious disease specialist in May-

wood, Illinois, wrote at the time of the swine flu being driven by two things: It was new, and there was insufficient data in the early days of the infections. Bill Gates had it right when he said: “It's fine to celebrate success, but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.”

To seek reliable advice, much can be found on the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit or Health Canada websites.

And now I leave you with the same thought I expressed almost two years ago: “Stay healthy, my friends.”

If you have any comments or suggestions, please email me at: terry@pdgmedia.ca

10

August 2020

lifestyle

No Parkinson’s SuperWalk but fundraising ongoing

Lois Strickland’s daughter, Amanda Mabo, lives a few houses away and she and her children are regular visitors.

Photo credit: Sally Smith.

Regional - Sally Smith editorial@pdgmedia.ca You might think the answer would be ‘no’. Ask Lois Strickland if anything even a little positive has come out of the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease and before she can answer, her daughter jumps in.

“She’s socializing more.

She’s made friends. She goes to a support group, and boxing classes…” Amanda Mabo runs out of positives…then adds one more.

“It’s opened doors for her.”

It’s hard to believe this forthright, clear-eyed, 68-year-old woman wasn’t all of these before 2018, but Lois says, straightforwardly, she’s been very shy all her life so getting out with others was not something she longed to do.

Add shyness to the symptoms she was beginning to show — tremors in her right

hand — and her only inclination was to “sit on the couch and watch TV.” The first time she noticed the tremor was about five years ago. Over the next couple of years the muscles in her arms began to tighten, she had insomnia due partly to restless leg syndrome, and her daughter remembers her “slouching and dragging her feet.”

Initially Lois tried different things. She saw a chiropractor, went for massage, saw an acupuncturist “who put needles all over the place” she grins, rubbed a mixture of “Epsom Salts, rosewater and something else” on her arms, and eventually headed off to see a specialist in Kingston in 2017.

He provided a report with a terse end-comment — “It appears to be Parkinson’s.” Lois also remembers him saying “I

could take Levodopa if I wanted to.”

Because both the observation and comment seemed brief add-ons, “It didn’t dawn on me it could be Parkinson’s. My thinking was ‘okay, maybe I don’t have it.’”

“Denial?” she asks now.

Amanda pipes up again (a bit vexed). “She didn’t share that report with anyone…or the fact she’d been to see the doctor. None of us knew…”

Things got worse…and worse.

“In 2018 it progressed quickly,” Amanda remembers. “The family was concerned.”

“It didn’t sink in that I had Parkinson’s.”

Lois was unambiguously diagnosed near the end of 2018; it was a gut-wrenching moment.

Hippity-hop two years forward to today — she has (and regularly uses) her ‘bob’ (punching stand), elliptical machine, treadmill, and she boxes once a week (it was two times a week until Covid hit). “Boxing has changed her completely around,” Amanda says. Lois agrees. Exercise helps tremendously.

She doesn’t sit on the couch anymore…she’s too busy with grandkids, finishing craft projects she started years ago, attending support groups, making friends, and exercising.

This year Lois is one of Lanark North Leeds’ local heroes; last year Parkinson Canada’s SuperWalk raised $73,000 from the area.

This year, however, the National Office of Parkinson’s Canada has decided “that for the remainder of 2020 all Parkinson Canada community gatherings and events, including SuperWalk

opinion: Am I the only one?

Carrie Wynne

labels are for clothing not people

We are too complicated for simple labels. I think we should just stop trying to put people in categories and subcategories before we get so divided, we forget which way is up.

People want to cram your whole identity into a single term, “Liberal” or “Tree Hugger” “Feminist” “Transgender” “Social Anxiety Disorder” “White Supremist” “Karen”.

It even bothers me when parents call their kids “asthmatic”. I would not be able to breathe properly if I had a label like that. Labels are a slippery slope.

I read an article that said you are either a racist or anti-racist. Those are labels. I am a nice person and a decent human being and that is good enough for me.

As a young teenager I was uncomfortable in my own skin. I felt unsupported, misunderstood and confused.

These days you are assigned labels such as anxiety, depression, transgender, bisexual, social anxiety disorder, ADD, bipolar, etc. “Emily” showed up at camp a totally different person. They had a new name, pronouns, and a bag of anxiety pills. Camp was their safe place.

It’s easy to sit behind a screen and be accepted by some underground social group. There are a lot of crazy cults and online wacky friends to give you that sense of belonging and attention.

You might even be celebrated but eventually you must come out into the light of day.

We must face our demons and battle through them and adjust accordingly. This takes

a lifetime. Labels brand people and they become self-fulfilled prophecies.

As WC Fields says, “it ain’t what they call you, it’s what you answer to.”

This is not a civil rights issue. Many professionals like teachers, doctors and therapists will not speak up for fear of losing their jobs. That is suppressing speech. Questions are not hate speech.

We are complicated, nuanced, biological, flawed, human beings living imperfect lives. I hate labels because they pigeonhole people into groups and these groups are ruining society.

It is normal for people to have problems and I am all for a little more kindness and empathy in the world but let’s not cancel reality.

Am I the only one?

The opinions stated in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hometown News’ management, staff or writers.

SIDEBAR - My advice to anyone experiencing symptoms or who has just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s is: • Don’t keep it a secret, don’t isolate yourself, find a support group, or an exercise class, or someone to talk to; • Also…read! One good book is Parkinson’s Disease, An Introductory Guide (it’s

and support groups, will be provided through virtual platforms (where available).”

And even though there will be no ‘walk’, the fundraising campaign will go ahead full-tilt. Raising funds and awareness is more important than ever. Online donations (donate.parkinson.ca/lanark) are encouraged and support is available to assist people to raise funds online. If you have cash donations or cheques please contact Pat Evans (evans. patn@gmail.com ), Gayle Truman (trumangayle@

easy to understand); • Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s - Every Victory Counts by Monique Giroux MD and Sierra Farris PA-C, MPAS; • Two good books by Michael J. Fox — Lucky Man, and Always Looking Up, The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist.

aol.com) or call Alan Muir 1(800)565-3000 ext. 3427. donate.parkinson.ca/lanark .

Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological disease; over 100,000 people live with it in Canada. It is chronic and progressive.

Symptoms continue and worsen over time. These range from loss of smell and muscle rigidity, to tremor and depression.

The average age of diagnosis is 62 with 30 percent diagnosed before the age of 50. By 2031, it is predicted that the number will dou-

ble; keeping this in mind, the County of Lanark Leeds and Grenville, with the highest percentage of seniors in Ontario will face a particular challenge.

So asking if anything positive has come out of this, Lois and her family have an answer — she’s changed.

She’s got the bull by the horns, the bit between her teeth and is determined to have a good life.

“I have to do this, have to keep up with the grandkids,” she says, eyes sparkling, face lighting up.

BRIAN RABY & ASSOCIATES INC LICENSED INSOLVENCY TRUSTEE

Free Consultation • Personalized Service Flexible Appointments

613-283-6308 91 Cornelia St. W. Smiths Falls, ON

11

August 2020

lifestyle

Ability Dogs Canada; More than just canines stepping up to the challenge

Samantha Cooper. credit: Submitted.

Photo

Carleton Place - Brian Turner editorial@pdgmedia.ca Most of us are pretty familiar with service dogs, at least those who assist sight-challenged persons. But not all of us are aware of the wide array of medical and psychological conditions that can be mitigated with the help of our four-legged friends.

And the road to learning about these services and obtaining them when needed can be long and arduous and no one knows better than

Samantha Cooper, founder of Ability Dogs Canada.

Cooper began her career in training service dogs when one of her own children needed one and she discovered the wait list was 7 years long! She made the decision to go back to school and learn how to train service dogs, receive certification, and then obtained and trained one, named River, for her daughter. During this journey she learned of others facing the same barriers, so she started helping them as well. And when she couldn’t find an organization to meet the growing need for these animals, she created one, Ability Dogs Canada, which trains service dogs and service dogs’ trainers. She will launch a training learning centre this fall bringing over 20 years of experience to the challenge in order to properly train service dog trainers.

After moving to Beckwith from Kingston this past spring, she’s been receiving plenty of local inquiries on behalf of both children and adults. The most common

request is in regards to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), although Cooper tells Hometown News that dogs can be trained to help with other conditions as well such as autism, mental health issues, seizures, mobility, hearing difficulties, diabetes, and dual-diagnoses, (meaning the assistance level provided can be tailored to individual needs). On top of their natural intelligence, service dogs bring some unique skills and talents that no other form of therapy or assistance can offer, such as the ability to detect changes in almost imperceptible pheromone-odours emanating from someone about to experience a seizure.

It takes 18-24 months to completely train a dog for service and Cooper often enlists the assistance of foster homes for the first year of a puppy’s life. These volunteers help the dog to develop socially as well as picking up some basic skills before heading back to a professional trainer for specialized sessions lasting up

to 3 hours daily. The costs of training a single dog can run up to $18K and donations and fundraisers help to offset these expenses. In some cases, the early-life foster trainer is the end recipient of the service dog through their ‘foster to place’ program.

Sometimes training looks like a fun outing, but it really is hard work. For example you might come across Cooper and a small group of her foster trainers with their

furry trainees in a retail outlet or on a busy street as the dogs are being educated to avoid distractions while safely doing their jobs.

Cooper’s goal with Ability Dogs Canada is to get at least 1 trainer up and running in every province in order to increase the accessibility of this service for those in need.

For the public, Cooper would like to remind everyone that, while puppies are extremely difficult to re-

sist, they must be admired from a distance when in service training. They’re easily recognized by their service vests/jackets which are charcoal grey and black for those in training and red and black for those who have graduated and are on the job. Petting a service dog is definitely a no-no and even approaching one without its handler’s permission can cause undue stress for both.

Photo credit: Submitted.

New venture offers one-stop shopping for musicians and artists

Partners in the Art Hub, a new coalition of Smiths Falls businesses dedicated to working with local musicians and artists, front from left, are Rosalyn Dennett and Ambre McLean, and back from left, Rob McLaren and Matt Connell.

Photo credit: Submitted.

Smiths Falls - Chris must editorial@pdgmedia.ca Smiths Falls’ newest business venture promises to be a magnet for the most creative souls in our community.

Singer/songwriter Ambre McLean, one of four partners in The Arts Hub, said the Main Street business will be “A place where people can come and be creative and inspired.”

Set to officially open Sept.

12, the centre located at 14 Main St. West will provide

a wide variety of services including music lessons and production of demo recordings and videos for budding artists. There will also be an artisan marketplace on site.

The building will be home to four separate businesses, which McLean said are “strategically aligned to operate symbiotically with a common focus: to encourage and empower artists.”

The Arts Hub will be a storefront artisan retail marketplace. Smiths Falls Music will specialize in musical

instruction and education.

Northwood Studio is a recording studio offering music production, videos and photography. The fourth business, Stump Media, is a boutique Canadian-based label offering artistic management and digital marketing.

This new collective enterprise originated with what McLean described as “kind of a weird kismet story.”

As new parents, McLean and her husband Matt Connell were no longer able to tour, and moved from southwestern Ontario to Smiths Falls about a year ago to be closer to family members.

Connell’s family are from Ottawa. The couple drove through Smiths Falls one day, “fell in love” with the place, and promptly decided to buy a house. Coincidentally, fellow folk musicians Rosalyn Dennett and Rob McLaren also moved to Smiths Falls and stopped touring because they had just become parents, and the two couples ended up living “literally around the corner from each other.” Rosalyn Dennett is the daughter of Prairie Oyster drummer Alistair Dennett, who lives in Manotick and will be joining Smiths Falls Music as an instructor. Rosalyn spent a decade touring with the band Oh My Darling.

McLean has over 20 years of experience in music education, and is looking forward to helping students improve on piano, vocals, song writing, or performance.

Dennett and McLaren are also singer/songwriters and multi-instrumentalists.

Both are experienced music teachers, with fiddle and guitar being their main instruments. They have become a regular featured attraction at Bowie’s on Russell Street, playing a couple of mid-day sets of bluegrass music every Sunday.

Matt Connell owns and

operates Northwood Studios, a Smiths Falls-based recording studio. He has been recording, mixing and mastering a wide variety of music for more than 15 years.

“All of us are professional touring musicians, and we all have babies,” said McLean. “What can we do now that we can’t tour anymore?”

The four partners have been planning their new venture for over a year, looking for ways to continue working in the music business other than going on tour. Although the official opening is slated for Septem-

ber, the centre will be up and running soon.

Smiths Falls Music launched a new website and list of music programs for the fall of 2020 on Aug. 4.

“This year we are excited to be offering lessons in the studio spaces at the Arts Hub building,” said McLean. “We have been doing all of our lessons online, and in this new space we will be able to provide music lessons for people in a safe, socially distanced setting that follows the guidelines set by the Lanark, Leeds, & Grenville Health Unit.”

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