Lanark, North Leeds & Grenville - Hometown News March 2024

Women in policing celebrate International Women’s Day

Regional - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

As we recognize International Women’s Day on March 8, this year’s theme focuses on inclusion.

Imagine a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

“Together, we can forge women’s equality and collectively we can all #inspireinclusion,” the IWD website states.

Women on the front lines are noted for their work at the Lanark County Ontario Provincial Police.

Sgt. Amanda Ormsby is following in her father’s footsteps. She is also a mom of three daughters “who drive my motivation to be a good role model and community member and demonstrate the positive impact you can have on others and your community through dedication and compassion,” she said. “I have also included my children in OPP community events so they can participate and experience firsthand positive impacts that police officers have on the community.”

Ormsby said equity and inclusion are priorities in the OPP and the communities they police.

“I have participated in numerous courses, training and cultural events hosted by the OPP to increase my knowledge and understanding of the diverse community that we serve and how to contribute to an inclusive environment,” she said.

“To assist in influencing others, I am the co-chair of our detachment Equity and Inclusion Committee. In this leadership role, I promote and embrace the diversities of our detachment and communities while encouraging detachment members to collaborate with one another and the community to increase awareness and inclusivity.”

Ormsby said knowledge and access to information is the key to any initiative or program that supports women advancing in the business.

“I also believe that networking is essential to providing information, support and guidance to women that are interested in law

enforcement - such as the Ontario Women in Law Enforcement support network,” she said. “The ultimate key to success is to find the drive and initiative within yourself and seek out the information and opportunities to develop and challenge yourself to achieve your goals.”

She said she can see the role of women in policing continuing to grow and evolve as society evolves.

“In policing, we are seeing more and more women in leadership positions as well as increased numbers in uniformed positions,” Ormsby said. “I believe that policing will become increasingly inclusive and opportunistic not only to females, but to society as a whole.”

If you are looking for a career that will challenge you physically, mentally and emotionally but also allow you the opportunity to influence and make a difference in the lives of others and your community, policing is a career that will afford you the opportunity to do that, she noted. “Though I have had many challenging days in my career, it has been extremely rewarding and if given the opportunity, I would not change any of it,” Ormsby said. “Policing is not just a job, but a lifestyle. Being a police officer is not something that you turn off at the end of your shift. It is who you are. I am so thankful for the opportunities that I have had, the people I have met and can truly say I am honoured to be a part of the policing family. This is a family that extends beyond organizational boundaries and is felt by anyone who puts on the uniform and wears the badge as well as all of our civilian members.”

Cst. Anna Forsythe said she wanted to show others that police are regular people. She was a dispatcher first, then became an OPP officer.

“When I was in high school, I remember having an interest in policing; however, never thought to pursue it in my post-secondary education. While in university, I heard about employment opportunities at the OPP Provincial Communication Centre (PCC) in

Smiths Falls. After learning about the position, I revisited my interest in policing from years prior.

I saw the position at the PCC as a great learning opportunity and stepping-stone into a career in policing. I worked at the PCC for little under three years, gaining valuable knowledge and experience which helped prepare me for a career as a police officer,” Forsythe explained.

Unique challenges she’s faced as an officer have run the gamut.

Forsythe noted, “I have had numerous experiences where members of the public spoke down to me or made derogatory comments based on my gender. In the past, policing was a career primarily dominated by men. As society’s views have changed, so too has this career. I’ve overcome these challenges by recognizing them

and ignoring them, as I know I am capable and competent. I take pride in being a role model for my daughters and encourage them to pursue any career, as I did, and they too can be successful.”

Forsythe said that diversity and inclusion are essential to the success of any police service. “Fostering (a) welcoming and inclusive environment promotes open conversation, which create an ideal atmosphere for members to exchange ideas and succeed,” she said. “In this job, I interact with people of varying backgrounds, cultures, ages, races, and socioeconomic statuses. Everyone’s situation is different. I feel it is very important as police officers to understand the people with whom we interact, to tailor our approach and treat them with respect and dignity. While at work, I always take time to talk with people and build rapport

… (so) I can better understand and address their needs.”

Forsythe said she was impacted by a homeless family she helped with community supports, gift cards for food, and a couple nights’ stay at a motel. She said seeing the young homeless children really hit home, and her interaction with them emphasized the impact that police officers have on people and their ability to change lives.

“This career is rewarding yet challenging and enables you to leave an indelible mark on the communities you serve,” Forsythe said. “The relationships you build with colleagues are unique and a platoon can be like a family. This career has provided me the opportunity to continuously learn new things and grow professionally and personally.”

Continues on page 2.

Lanark County OPP detachment recognizes International Women’s Day on March 8. These women on the front lines include: (back, left to right) Cst. Laura Breteler, Cst. Judy King, Cst. Glenda Timmins, Acting Staff Sgt. Kathleen Magill; (front) Cadet Karleigh Kucharik, Cst. Anna Forsythe, Sgt. Amanda Ormsby and Cst. Megan Baxendale. These are a few of the women who work at the Lanark OPP Detachment. This was the day shift group on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

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Women in policing celebrate International Women’s Day

on the front lines with some of lanark county opp’s female officers

Regional - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Continued from page 1.

Acting Staff Sgt. Kathleen Magill said she’s been given opportunities equal to men, “although women are still proportionately under-represented in uniform roles. As we reflect on 50 years of females in uniform ranks in the OPP, there have been many achievements which I know will continue and help build strong women leaders.”

In a field that has been traditionally male-dominated, Magill said she would like to see more women enter this workforce.

“I hope that we can inspire many more to join our ranks,” she said. “Women have held every rank within the OPP, including Commissioner. As a proud police officer, I would encourage anyone who may be interested in policing to attend a recruiting seminar or check out our OPP Careers web page or any of our social media. There are so many interesting fields and opportunities within the OPP, both civilian and uniform.”

Diversity and background, experience and approach in a workforce is well known to increase organizational effectiveness and policing is no different, Magill said.

“In 2021, I created the Lanark County diversity and inclusion committee. The committee has grown significantly and is quite active within detachment and in the greater Lanark County,” she said. “Some of its activities include hosting educational training opportunities for our officers and attending cultural events within the community we police. It is important not

only to better understand the diverse communities we serve, but also to integrate ourselves so we can build lasting relationships and foster trust and respect.”

Magill said that within law enforcement, there are many established organizations that support female representation — Ontario Women in Law Enforcement (OWLE) and the International Association of Women in Policing (IAWP). There are also more conferences specifically geared toward supporting females in leadership roles. Within the OPP, there is also a Member Support Network for women.

In October 2023, Lanark County OPP, Smiths Falls Police Service, Perth and Drummond North Elmsley Tay Valley Fire Services and Lanark EMS co-hosted a Lanark County Female First Responders Camp.

“There were 24 females chosen who ran through hands-on activity stations over the course of two days. The campers worked alongside local female first responders and leaders and were able to ask questions while exploring different career options.”

Magill said they look forward to collaborating with community partners again in the future.

“Policing can be a de-

manding profession carrying with it a range of challenges, opportunities, and risks,” Magill said. “It is also highly rewarding and life changing. I have no regrets with my career choice, and I hope to inspire the next generation of female officers to come work alongside me.”

Acting Insp./Detachment Commander Kerly Tawdrous said, “The Lanark OPP detachment is proud to celebrate the 50th International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to advance equity. I am very proud of the women at our detachment (who) hold a variety of roles and leadership positions — managers, detectives, front line officers and civilians. They help ensure public safety. In Lanark we have a Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Council that is committed to foster inclusivity and learning opportunities for all our members. We are sharing some stories of successful local women in Lanark, to help inspire the next generation of girls and women that are interested in a career in policing and to celebrate our amazing women leaders.”

Cartoon by Patrick Labelle.

Photo credit: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/

Marco Smits recognized by Rideau Lakes for Emmy-award winning coverage

Regional - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Fiber optics in Rideau Lakes was the Emmy award winner at a regular meeting of the municipal services committee.

Marc Smits won a Sports Emmy Award for his work as an associate producer/ researcher at the 2022 Beijing Olympic, in the category of Outstanding Live Performance. He said he was but a “small part on such an amazing team.”

Smits said it wouldn’t have been possible without having fiber optics in the village of Portland, where he lives. He’s covered seven other Olympic Games; two others remotely, but this was the first time working from his home.

“It is a bit of a long story how I got involved and there is definitely no clearcut path to landing a gig like this,” he told this publication later that day. “I have a degree in physical education and sport sciences at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, and sports has always been a big part of my life. Eventually, I got to cover sports as a journalist, locally, nationally and internationally.”

Smits covered three Stanley Cup finals and one NBA final, “and through some of the contacts I made I got in touch with CTV who hired me as their long track speed skating researcher for the

Vancouver Games,” he said.

On Feb. 12, Smits was recognized by the township for this work with NBC on the Olympics and Paralympics coverage at Beijing. Smits only recently received the Emmy by mail, even though he’d won it in May last year.

Smits brought the trophy to the council chambers in Chantry, and after being presented a scroll in recognition of the achievement by Mayor Arie Hoogenboom, the trophy made its way around the table.

“I just want to say how proud we are that someone who has been awarded an Emmy is from our area. You certainly bring honour to your profession and honour to your community, Marco,” the mayor said.

“I have a small scroll – it’s not another Emmy – indicating our appreciation on a great accomplishment.”

Smits said it was exciting learning of the win.

“At first, I couldn’t believe it, but it’s just really nice. And I’ve said this before … I clearly couldn’t have done it if I didn’t have fiber,” he said. “It wasn’t until a couple of weeks before that it was actually connected.”

Smits said when he saw the employees from WTC Communications installing the fiber in the village, he approached them to see if he could get his name on the list early for the installa-

tion to his home.

“This came very last minute,” he said. “When I got the offer (to do the Olympics), I had so much equipment in my living room.”

Smits said he was able to get connected to the fiber optics that enabled him to do his work for the Olympics remotely, as WTC Communications was able to accommodate the request.

Hoogenboom took that opportunity to say that financing fiber optics across the township is one of the ways that an investment in Rideau Lakes has paid dividends for its people.

“There is much to do and we’ll continue to work on that,” Hoogenboom said.

“Yes, I’m hearing that from friends on rural roads,” Smits said.

As for the Paris Olympics this summer, Smits said a lot has changed in the industry. He would like to be in Paris as opposed to working the Games remotely. It’s hard though, he said, as working out of country costs a “few thousand” in working permits.

“We’ll see,” he said about working in Paris. “There is always a possibility, and these contracts don’t usually get finalized until a couple of months before.”

Smits added his thanks “very much” for the recognition by the township, before leaving the municipal office.

CAIVAN's revised proposal of Perth Golf Course development

Perth - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

A revised proposal has been submitted to the Town of Perth by CAIVAN, the developer looking to build a 940-unit subdivision at 41 Peter St.

Greg Jack of Loyalist Public Affairs, spokesperson for CAIVAN, said the developer submitted amendments to its application of subdivision for the Western Annex Lands in Perth (Perth Golf Course) on Friday, March 1.

The revised proposal includes “a second bridge and an affordable housing block — signaling an openness to mediation,” Jack told this publication on Monday, March 4.

“The developers have always said that their plan is not final and that they are open to continued discussions, including transportation and supporting housing affordability. They have actively listened,” Jack said, as they see a sustainable, strong and prosperous vision for Perth.

“CAIVAN’s commit -

ment is to responsible development and consideration for the concerns and desires of the residents of Perth and the surrounding area,” Jack said. “They believe these changes directly address the most pressing issues raised by the community and opens up the opportunity for mediation, which they would support.”

According to the revised map, the second bridge will cross the Tay on the west side of the development at the Lanark County building off Christie Lake Road.

The affordable housing stock block is a small triangulated section at the centre of the east side.

Specifics about the details were not shared.

Jack said the developer believes “these changes directly address the most pressing issues raised by the community and opens up the opportunity for mediation, which they would support.”

CAIVAN is seeking permission to proceed with this development but ap-

proval to zoning and bylaw amendments has not happened. CAIVAN appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal. Two case management conferences have since been held with the matter going to an Ontario Land Tribunal trial in August as there are concerns expressed by the town, and its citizens about the development — namely the second crossing and affordable housing.

Other issues identified from two case management conferences held in December and February include: Planning (demands on infrastructure and public facilities); transportation (including access/egress); stormwater management; natural hazards (potential impacts of the Tay River and Grant’s Creek floodplains); zoning amendment issues; and draft plan of sub-

division issues.

The Town will continue to provide information to the public relating to this OLT hearing as it becomes available, through the Town's website and social media. As the matter is now one of a legal capacity, town staff and council are not able to provide comment on the case.

Questions regarding the process can be sent to the CAO Michael Touw, at

cao@perth.ca.

A four-week OLT video hearing will take place from Monday, Aug. 19 to Friday, Sept. 13. The tribunal will not be sitting on Monday, Sept. 2 or Monday, Sept. 9. The public can log into the meeting at: https:// meet.goto.com/943363669.

For audio-only, call 1-647-497-9373 or (Toll Free) 1-888-299-1889

Audio-only access code is 943-363-669.

Marco Smits was recognized for his Emmy award winning performance as an associate producer at the 2022 Beijing Olympics at the Township of Rideau Lakes municipal services committee meeting on Feb. 12 by Mayor Arie Hoogenboom (left). The mayor presented Smits with a congratulatory scroll on behalf of the council. Photo credit: Rideau Lakes.

Snow daze – will we or won’t we get more OPINION:

By Sally Smith

community New build "just not affordable": Perth to

renovate existing public works garage cost to build new facility north of highway 7 too high

Everyone’s talking about the ‘no snow’ winter.

It might still be coming. But it’s already the beginning of March and snow is melting… not drifting from the sky.

Dog walkers always like to stop and chat, say a few words to the other’s dog, gripe a bit… but for the last week it’s been about no snow.

A woman yesterday lamented… “Where’s the snow?”

I couldn’t give her a good answer. She said her husband had gone to Texas because they had a house there, but she didn’t want to go. She added they also had a house in the Caribbean — but she didn’t want to go there, either.

The dogs sniffed butts, and we walked on.

A man in his scooter-chair stopped today.

“You know…” he started… “I’m 65 and have never seen a winter like this.” He reached down to pat the dog. “I remember snow banks way over our heads when we were young.”

He laughed a bit then. “I’ve seen lots of ads for snowmobiles,” he snickered. “And I’ve had my snowblower out twice… really only needed it once,” he added.

“We’re supposed to get it next week,” he said as he moved on slowly. I could see him shaking his head.

Me too. We have pictures of us as kids sitting on top of snowbanks looming w-aa-y over our Dad’s head..and he was 6’2’’. We slid down in sleds, or on our behinds in the one piece snowsuits we were bundled into.

And still no snow. Our March paper is out, the time change is a week away and the lawns are a stubbly brown-green, hard as rock. We’re hearing drought warnings, fires are still rampant in western Canada and the days here, in the

east, are glorious and sunny — but still no snow.

No snow again today.

Another dog walker, scarf snugged around his neck, jacket zipped up tight, dog sniffing dog. A few flakes this morning…but very few. He says he’s been to his cabin in the Laurentians and he’s done a bit of snowmobiling, but not much.

My dog runs off, leash between his teeth straight into the backyard and starts digging in the pile of very dirty, fast melting snow.

He does the right shoulder drop and rolls and rolls in what’s left, (he loves the coolth), grabs a few mouthfuls of the cold stuff and stands and barks.

By mid-week I imagine this snow will be gone, too.

Maybe I’ve jinxed the weather. Maybe by writing this a blizzard will be a-brewing next week but as of the moment of writing — still no snow.

Perth - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

The Town of Perth will move forward with a staff recommendation to construct an operations space beside the existing public works garage.

Staff will continue to work in their current trailer until the new build is ready – in about a year to 18 months.

Council heard from Cathy McNally, director of community services, during a regular meeting of council on March 5, that they looked at building a new garage on their 19 acres of property north of Highway 7, but for water and sewer installation alone, it would cost between $3 million and $5 million.

“If we demolish it and restart, they (environmental services staff) don’t have a home for over a year,” McNally said.

“We’ve asked Lanark

County if we can utilize some of their public works garage space – they’re full. So, we felt like being homeless in that kind of manner just isn’t the best option.”

McNally said she was looking to move forward with a Garage Needs Analysis equal to $54,000 to fund new design work.

The second-story mezzanine does not meet Building Code and can no longer be used. A permanent solution is needed for this space as well as completing upgrades to the existing garage, her report to council noted.

“That’s my request,” she said. “To get started on the design, do the consultation and once we finalize the design, we’ll have a class D estimate in terms of how much we think that would cost for the build, then I’ll come back to you and say, here’s what we’re thinking of doing and can we move forward with tendering.”

Coun. Jim Boldt asked

how long this would take.

McNally said it would be about 12 to 18 months.

“Looking at the options … it’s just not affordable for the taxpayers,” Boldt said of a new build.

“It’s clear the option you’re recommending makes the most sense economically. The fact you’re extending 15 plus years and then 50 years on the new build, gives us time to see that north of (Highway) 7 area eventually flourish and other people paying for those costs as they want to move into the area … In my way of thinking option two makes the most sense.”

The biggest issue is that staff do not have an office space, storage facility or washroom that is permanent, McNally said.

“That’s where we’re trying to find the most economical option available while maintaining the current garage,” she said.

Coun. Dave Bird said

they have to move on this based on the town’s plan for expansion in the notso-distant future, and give their staff a place to work.

Coun. Isabel Anne McRae, who chaired the meeting, agreed with council that they should move ahead with the plan to renovate the building as “we lack facilities and amenities for our staff. Besides that, according to our unaudited budget, rental on this trailer is $71,000 a year. Over a four-year term, do the math on that. It’s getting us nowhere.”

The option was unanimously passed: This plan would see the demolition of the existing garage and build a brand-new facility at 15 Sunset Blvd.

The Class D estimate for this construction was completed in 2023 and estimated at $3.8 million as well as $227,500 for site works, which includes grading, paving and minor landscaping.

Smiths Falls Rotary Club bring world renowned fiddlers to Lanark County

fundraiser for hospital’s mri campaign

Perth - Laurie weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

The last time world renowned fiddlers Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy were in Lanark County it was in 2022 when they headlined for Perth’s Stewart Park Festival.

This year, the duo returns – this time to Perth and District Collegiate Institute — as a fundraiser by the Smiths Falls Rotary Club for the MRI campaign by the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation, “Magnifying Care Close to Home.”

Natalie and Donnell, married since 2002, come from musical families

rooted with Cape Breton's heritage. Natalie started playing the fiddle at age nine, launching a career spanning over 30 years. Her debut recording at 16 gained recognition in the US and Canada for her commitment to Cape Breton’s fiddling tradition. With captivating performances, Natalie blends innovation with tradition, leaving audiences eager for more at each show.

It was recently announced that Natalie and Donnell are intending to bring their seven music-loving children and bass player Remi Arsenault to perform in Perth. ABOUT THE MRI

CAMPAIGN

“Magnifying Care Close to Home” is the name of the fundraising campaign to help pay for the $6.1 million MRI located at the Smiths Falls site. The PSFDH Foundation has committed to a three-year, $6.1 million campaign to bring the MRI to the community.

According to their website, “$6.1 million is a huge number yet to put this into context, our catchment area incorporates approximately 60,000 or more people,” notes Kristine Fair, PSFDH Foundation chair. “If it were possible for every member of our community to donate $100, we

The Smiths Falls Rotary Club will bring Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy and family to Perth on April 11 for a performance to help raise funds for the hospital’s MRI campaign. Photo credit: Submitted.

Photo credit: Sally Smith.

Smiths Falls gets mini miracle: Tiny forest planned for Corbett Park

Smiths Falls - sally smith editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Let’s think about forests — leaves underfoot, tree canopy overhead, birds, bugs and bees. It’s wonderful to get out, to breathe, to listen.

In town that’s hard to do…but soon people in Smiths Falls will be able to see a tiny ‘forest’ growing in Corbett Park.

It all starts in April.

Dave Thornley and a crew of volunteers are building it; it’s based on a Japanese concept — the Miyawaki Method — developed, initially, to counter deforestation in that country after the War.

But first, after planting the seed at a REAL board meeting, he had to find land. Not much of a problem…there’s lots around. The issue was timing…and then getting permission. “I was under the gun,” Thornley remembers.

The deadline to apply to Trees Canada for $9000 of funding for the project was rapidly approaching — he had five days to get it submitted. He went to the Town, suggested four spots for the tiny forest, and the final decision was made for Corbett Park.

He grins when he remembers this… ”within less than a week we got the land. Amazing! It can happen…!”

They hope to hear about

the funding this March but

if it doesn’t come through, REAL has agreed to go ahead with it anyway; a Go Fund Me site has also been suggested.

The tiny forest will grow between Chambers and Sussex, the northwest corner of Corbett park. Presently it’s a small park, bare except for children’s playground equipment. The planting will go at one end lending coolness on hot summer days.

There are other tiny forests around, Thornley says. Kingston has planted “six or nine of them over the last three years.”

He describes the work.

“We’re doing the minimum size — 100 square metres. That’s about half a tennis court, not very big for 300 trees. Each square metre has three trees.” And because Kingston has done this before, the city is lending spreadsheets with methodology and what needs to be done.

There are two aspects, Thornley says — the first is planting the forest floor and the second is planting the trees. “You plant the floor first…which emulates the forest floor, and then the trees, three trees in one square metre.

”The idea is to plant close together. The undergrowth fights against each other, grows faster, and turns into a forest in 10 years.

“That’s the whole idea of a tiny forest.

But you need a proper forest floor to do this. This is the layering to be done: cardboard, leaves, compost, and wood chips. All of this is coming from the landfill site in Smiths Falls “except for the cardboard,” Thornley explains. On April 13, when the initial work starts, he asks everyone to bring cardboard, the bigger the better. “We’re looking for b-i-g boxes.”

Cardboard keeps the weeds from growing and when the layering is complete, and the forest floor is down, the trees go in.

“The recommendation is to let it sit for six months and then, in October, plant the trees.”

How is all this going to happen?

“Volunteers,” Thornley says. “We need people,” men and women with trucks, teens who need volunteer hours, moms and dads and grandparents, and then wheelbarrows, rakes, hoes, gloves, sun screen. His hope is to make it a community event.

He suggests people give an hour or two and says it could be done in “four to six hours.”

Why trucks? Not for compost, he quickly says, knowing how guys and gals feel about their trucks, but to get leaf bags and card-

board to the site. There are 120 bags at the landfill — “they fill them, we just put them in cars or trucks and take them.”

And then, in October, the trees go in — three trees per square metre.

Thornley says they have a list of 300 trees — “all sorts, canopy, mid-canopy, normal, bush, a mixture… not mature trees with the largest being small and easy to plant, saplings…”

He foresees only one problem — water.

The planting will have to be watered initially and then “once in a while, two or three times a summer.”

He’s looked at the site and knows there are two fire hydrants fairly near. “Maybe the fire chief could give us an old hose to hook up,” he says, putting the thought out there, or maybe nearby houses could co-ordinate.

“We only need it a few times a year, not a lot.”

The new plants will be colour co-ordinated with tiny flags to identify location and type. “We care for it up to three years [this is where volunteers for watering and weeding come in], and then it should look after itself.”

In 10 years it will be a good looking forest.

So put this on your

calendar:

What: Planting a tiny forest

Where: Corbett Park between Chambers and Sussex

When: April 13, 9 a.m.

Why: Environmentally sound planning for Town; attracts birds

Who: Grandparents, parents, kids, teens who need volunteer hours

What to bring: Trucks, wheelbarrows, hoes, rakes, gloves, trowels, large pieces of cardboard.

And one last thought, Thornley grins. This is going to happen sun, sleet or snow…

To contact Dave, email him at thornley.j.d@gmail.com.

Dave and Joni Thornley stand at the perimeter of the proposed tiny forest at Corbett Park. Photo credit: Sally Smith.

lifestyle

Smiths Falls defenseman suffers spinal cord injury in EOJHL playoff action

A Smiths Falls native, and defenseman for the Athens Aeros, has suffered a spinal cord injury against the Smiths Falls Jr. Bears in Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League play.

Mac Spinelli, 19, was in Smiths Falls as the Aeros took on the Bears in a playoff wildcard game when he was checked from behind on Feb. 27 and “crashed violently into the boards fracturing two vertebrae in his neck along with a concussion,” a Facebook statement from the Aeros organization reads.

Mac’s mother, Jeanette Spinelli, said her son sustained two fractured vertebrae at the base of his neck, C-6 and C-7.

“Doctors conducted a number of scans and evaluations during which they determined the best course of action was not to have

surgery at this time,” she stated. “The hope is that the two vertebrae will fuse together with help from a neck brace for several weeks, limiting further surgeries and possible complications. The next eight weeks are crucial to limiting long-term repercussions.”

This is Mac’s fourth concussion, and his family said it will prevent him from playing contact hockey ever again.

The Bears player that checked Spinelli was given a game misconduct.

Walt Dubas, former coach of the Smiths Falls Jr. A Bears, who later went on to help coach the Brockville Braves of the CCHL, said Spinelli was a neighbour in Smiths Falls for a time.

Dubas said checking from behind happens all too often and “should be eliminated from the game.”

It was during Dubas’ tenure with the Jr. A Bears,

when one of his young charges suffered a spinal cord injury that left him a paraplegic.

On Dec. 13, 2014, at the age of 17, Neil Doef suffered a spinal cord injury that ended his hockey career. He was the leading scorer for the Bears, was a top prospect for the NHL watch list, and had participated in the World Jr. A Challenge as a member of Team Canada East’s U18 team that same year where he was injured in an on-ice collision.

Neil went on to Princeton University, and graduated in 2021 with a degree in economics. Just last year, he won a court battle with Hockey Canada and its insurance company, AIG Insurance Company of Canada. Now 27, he has regained some of his mobility but will always have medical needs.

In 2013 in Perth during playoff hockey in the EO-

It’s a full-circle moment for young coach Jayden Spencer

For Jayden Spencer, coaching basketball at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute alongside his father, Todd Spencer, has been a full-circle moment. He’s had four championships under his dad’s mentorship. Now, he’s studying fitness and health promotion at St. Lawrence College in Kingston with his sights set on personal training as one route he can explore.

This year, though, Jayden has helped his dad coach over 20 games, including their Eastern Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association gold medal win over St. Joseph Catholic High School on Feb. 29.

“Coached by him? I always loved it, because I felt that because we had that father-son bond and he was always able to tell it as it is, and

go more in depth with me,” Jayden said. “Having that relationship is huge because it allowed me to get better.”

Jayden said during the rides home from games, he was able to understand his father’s perspective a lot easier. “That always helped me improve as a player.”

As for coaching with him, “it’s so cool,” he said. “Coming full circle as a player and now a coach with him it’s been fun. Seeing these guys develop has been really fun. Problem solving with him, and working things out, I really enjoy that aspect.”

Comparing styles of coaching, Jayden said his father is better in the moment, due to his experience.

“Sometimes I get a little flustered in the moment,” he said. “My role with him has been a lot more analytical. I’ll watch the game more quietly. While he’s doing the game, I’ll look at

JHL, the Shawville Pontiacs defenseman Brent Nugent, now 29, suffered a spinal cord injury that paralyzed him after an awkward hit from behind.

Spinelli has been with the Aeros for three seasons, coming from the Smiths Falls U18 AAA Bears. Prior to that, he played three seasons for the Rideau St. Lawrence AA Kings. With the Aeros, he accumulated three goals and 12 assists in the 2023/24 season.

Jeanette added, “We want

to thank the Aeros’ organization, fellow teammates, our first responders, family and friends for their ongoing support. We wish everyone still playing a safe playoff journey and want to remind you that there is more to life than just the game of hockey.”

Smiths Falls went on to defeat Athens 3-0 in that game and won the wildcard series to meet Carleton Place Jr. Canadians in the Richardson Division semi-finals.

As of production, the Jr. Bears were down 2-1 with Game 4 on March 7 m Smiths Falls at 7:30 p.m. Game five will be held March 9 in Carleton Place at 7:30 p.m.

Game 6 in Smiths Falls, March 10 at 5:30 p.m.; Game 7, Carleton Place, March 12, 7:15 p.m.

In the Martin Division, it’s Ottawa West Golden Knights vs. the Embrun Panthers in the best of seven series.

the matchups, sub patterns, different ways to run offense and defense. Having the connection we have and reflecting after the game has been a huge part of our success this season.”

Together, they break down the game well, and Jayden said that is their success.

Doing a walk along the wall of fame at the high school, Todd pointed out all the championship photos where his son was pictured. He also showed the 2011 senior boys’ provincial championship where his son, and daughter, Abby, were the size of the trophy.

“I’ve been bringing him to games since I could hold him,” Todd said, but having his son coaching with him has been a life-long dream come true.

“This is what it’s all about,” Todd said. “Having him by my side.”

Smiths Falls - Laurie weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

Jayden (left) and Todd Spencer coach the junior boys’ basketball team at SFDCI. The father-son duo are enjoying their time together on the bench. Jayden has had four championships under his father's tutelage and now, he says, it’s a full-circle moment to be able to coach with him. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

Mac Spinelli will be in a neck brace for the next eight weeks after suffering a spinal cord injury in a wildcard hockey game on Feb. 27 against the Smiths Falls Jr. Bears in EOJHL play. Photo credit: Athens Aeros.

The Travelling Sommelier Food & Drink

Smoke'N Barrel Whisky Dinner

Smoke'N Barrel is a hidden gem gastro pub in Kingston. I found this restaurant almost by accident last summer when I was in Kingston at a meeting on Gardiners Road north of Princess. The place is known for great BBQ and they specialize in having a very large selection of whiskies from around the world. I have been there a few times for lunch and on the first occasion I had the Texas Brisket which was fabulous with their signature BBQ sauce.

Having been in Scotland and Ireland last fall trying all the local single malts and aged whiskies along the coasts, I was amazed at the selection of whiskies that owner Tommy keeps on hand. Some of the lesser known ones I’d tried were there too. I just had to order a flight of 4 whiskies. They have several levels of tasting flights that you can see on the menu.

Tommy, supported by a great staff and chef in the kitchen, runs a smooth operation with quality food and service. You have to stop in for a

bite, a scotch tasting, or a beer, the next time you go to Kingston. I attended one of their regular Whisky Dinners for the first time the other night hosted by the Kingston Single Malt Society that normally operates out of the River Mill Restaurant in a historic limestone building overlooking the water. They have suppers and tastings for their members. Tonight it was the President, Roberto di Fazio and David Jones who narrated the tasting of 3 whiskies with the Smoke'N Barrel 3 course supper. The Smoke'N Barrel chef and his team outdid themselves with well paced and very tasty courses.

We started with Brisket Burnt End Tacos done in their new Dad’s Root Beer BBQ sauce. This was paired with Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 40%abv. While young, it had a sweet nose with some smoke, and a touch of spice and bite along with caramel and a smooth palate that perfectly matched the burnt end

tips and sauce in the tacos. David narrated the background story of each of the whiskies giving us all a rounded story, taste experience and altogether great gathering of like-minded individuals. For the main entrée course, we enjoyed smoked prime rib dinner served with mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and roasted vegetables (grilled brussel sprouts with onion and smoked bacon bits). The generous cut of smoked exterior prime rib was medium rare and cooked to perfection along with the vegetables. Paired with this was

By Brian Preston

the Dewars 18 Year Old 40%abv blended Speyside and Lowland scotch each aged at least 18 years, giving it a golden colour and aromas of sweet and light brine, chocolate, honey, raisin, green apple and with a slight floral quality; complex and good mid-palate viscosity showing a bit of smoke, honeyed fruit, caramel/vanilla with a complex, long finish. It perfectly matched the range of flavours in the food taking this tast-

ing experience out of the ballpark! To finish, dessert consisted of Mixed Berry Crumble a la Mode paired with Glendronach 12 Year Old, 43%abv. This pure Speyside single malt had a nose of cereal, raisin, sweet sherry; soft and light palate of sweet caramel and lovely nut brittle with a long finish of spice and oak. This matched the toasted oat cereal of the crumble and the sweet berries and ice cream. Again, another matching winner!

And now get this, all for $85. The place was packed and as I looked around, the conversations were of old friends who have attended many of these suppers in the past. I for one will be joining the crowd for the next ones in this Whisky Dinner series. Check out the website along with their menus for food and beverage (beers on draught too) and don’t forget the whiskies. https://smokenbarrelkingston.com/

The new gastro pub which has been eagerly awaited by local residents has finally opened recently in Portland on Hwy 15 across from Bayview Marine on Big Rideau Lake. This is a fine, newly renovated building with parking that holds 40 to 50 people inside with a patio holding the same number when the weather gets warmer. The owner, Jason Moore, gave me a tour of the place which is very much themed on being by the water with a

down-east look and feel because of the interior décor with accessories like sea birds on the mantles and Cape Breton tartan curtains (Jason’s family home). No wonder I felt transported back to P.E.I. where we lived for 5 years. I could hear the waves and the birds on the beach with only the smell of salt air missing beside Big Rideau Lake. We’ve been there for several meals so far: the Superbowl special, ‘Pound and a Pint’ which is one

pound of wings and a 20 oz pint of draught beer for only $16, has turned into a regular Thursday offering after 5pm to close. Their sauces are: Salt and Pepper (dry style that my wife has ordered twice already), Bullseye BBQ, Mild, Frank’s Red Hot and Diana’s Honey Garlic. There was a multi-course Valentine supper special, where I had a unique and tasty appetizer of Korean short ribs in a glaze sauce topped with scallions, and their rib steak entrée cooked perfectly medium rare, as ordered, with a glass of red wine, which they serve by the glass, half and full bottle. There are several varieties of white and red wine as well as a good selection of beers which you would expect at any bar. They also have a varied menu including vegan and non GMO dishes. For her entrée, my wife ordered the Winter Salad which was unlike any previous salad experience. It had several lettuce greens packed with chicken, nuts, fruit and pieces of turnip or squash. There were some halved

brussel sprouts which were tasty but hard, which seemed a bit out of place. Perhaps, if they were lightly grilled and then added to the salad? It was very filling and flavourful and she said that she would order it again if it became a regular menu item. They just opened with their first Sunday Brunch from 9am to 2pm every Sunday. Check out their online Facebook menu, and call 613-972-5000 for reservations. My wife ordered the Classic Breakfast $13 while I went all-out

for the Farmers Breakfast $18, consisting of 3 meats (sliced bacon, Canadian bacon, sausages), 3 eggs, and the best home fries I have ever had – cubes perfectly browned on the outside and fluffy potato inside. A companion guest had the Broccoli Cheese Omelet consisting of 3 eggs with broccoli, smoked cheddar and home fries $15. She felt that it was lacking some spice seasonings to lift the dish and the serving staff said they welcomed this feedback to be able to inform Chef Shane

Jack, an accomplished chef who has worked in some leading restaurants in Toronto under notable Executive Chefs like Jamie Kennedy at his premier restaurant. This is a good sign at any dining establishment that takes its food seriously, and I am sure we will see some changes to this dish soon!

Now I can actually say I have a local pub, just like small town Britain has had for centuries! I feel like I’m on Coronation Street right here in Portland, Ontario!

Left to right: Roberto di Fazio, President of Kingston Single Malt Society with colleague David Jones,and Tommy,owner of Smoke n Barrel. Photo credit: Brian Preston

Smoked Prime Rib. Photo credit: Brian Preston

lifestyle

CPHS senior boys earn county hoops cup over Perth Blue Devils

bears get knocked out in semi-finals at eossaa

Carleton Place - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

It was a showdown on the hard court that could have gone either way, but Carleton Place held a slim lead to win the Lanark County Interschool Athletic Association title.

Powerhouses on both sides left the packed gymnasium at Perth and District Collegiate Institute in a frenzy as Carleton Place District High School tangled with the Blue Devils in the senior boys’ basketball championship on Tuesday, Feb. 13 to take the LCIAA trophy, 51-48.

Carleton Place coach Mathew Bennett said the day was an exact replica of their regular season game. “You never play these guys when it

doesn’t come down to one or two points,” he said. Bennett said he was happy to win, and he loves playing in Perth. He praised Evan Hebert. “He’s the guy that drives our offence,” he said. “My son – Eli Bennett – drives the inside, and everybody did a part today. He also spoke highly of Lochlann Carey, “a guy who only sees about three minutes a year, steal the game. He had a big steal, a big rebound, forced a turnover … it was beautiful.”

The boisterous crowd –more than three-quarters of them Perth fans – gave off some great energy, Bennett said. “I feel like had we not played here in the regular season with the same amount of energy we wouldn’t have been

equipped. But we were ready because of it.”

Bennett said PDCI is a well-coached team with Kevin Bellamy at the helm.

“Four of their kids play on my competitive team and I know how good they are,” Bennett said. “I expected nothing less than what happened.”

Perth jumped out to a seven-point lead early in the game, but that was short lived as Carleton Place made short work of taking charge after the first quarter to lead 15-9.

It was a battle to the half but PDCI couldn’t catch a break and trailed 31-24 at the half.

Perth clawed their way back in the third to tie it up at 37 before Carleton Place rolled away with it with un-

RedHawks are red hot at EOSSAA

der two minutes remaining.

Declan Heinz paced the Bears with a 20-point game, including five treys. He sank a trio of three-pointers in the fourth quarter to give the Bears the breathing room needed to seal the win. Evan Herbert added 12 points, while Eli Bennett sank eight.

Aaron Barrie led the Perth scoring with 20 points; Lachlan Donnelly added 11.

Bellamy said it was not the outcome he expected as they’d gone 6-0 in regular league play, and 18-4 on the season.

“They deserved to win that game, but we turned the ball over too many times. It might have been because of No. 4 (Evan Hebert), but I’m shocked at how much we turned the ball over,” Bellamy said. “Our shooting from the perimeter wasn’t good either. They hit a number of threes and I don’t even

gold medal redemption for junior boys’ basketball team

All they wanted to do was win – and that they did.

On Thursday, Feb. 29, the Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute’s junior boys’ basketball team went all the way to the gold medal game where they claimed an exciting 48-46 championship win in the Eastern Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association (EOSSAA) tournament in Cornwall.

It was a sweet victory for the young RedHawks as they were in a similar situation last year, but found themselves with silver medals.

This year, their sights were set on the ultimate goal, but they had to get through the hometown favourites, the St. Joseph Catholic High School Panthers – hosts of the event. The RedHawks had met this team twice this season outside league play, and the Panthers defeated the Smiths Falls juniors in both games.

It was late in the third quarter of the EOSSAA gold medal game though, when St. Joseph capitalized on three turnovers and went up by six, but that didn’t stop the drive of three-point shooter, Michael Severe.

He was a little humble when reliving the moment, the next day at the high school, as the game played on repeat in the hall outside the coach rooms. A crowd had gathered to watch.

Down by a single, Severe sunk a trey as the RedHawks went up by a deuce. All they had to do was hold tough on their defense, which they did, as the Panthers missed three attempts to score.

Smiths Falls gained possession with seconds remaining and never looked back.

When asked what was the defining moment in the tournament, co-captain Kilian Morrison said it was Severe’s three-point shot.

Reed King, co-team captain, said he didn’t think they

were going to pull this one off. “I was nervous,” he said.

What got them to this point though, King said, was losing to two tough teams in league play then beating them in the county playoffs. That started their winning roll as it showed their resilience.

Nolan MacNeil, co-captain number three, said their familial bond has helped them achieve success. “Just hanging out in hotels, in each other’s rooms, team dinners, and stuff like that,” he said has been pivotal in developing that bond.

When asked how they plan to maintain the momentum and success achieved at EOSSAA, Colton Staples had the best answer. “We just keep rolling,” he said.

Getting to EOSSAA, the boys defeated the Almonte Thunderbolts in the Lanark County Interschool Athletic Association’s

nament final.

know if we had a couple.”

Bellamy said when he got into a style of game like they did, that wasn’t what he wanted.

“We wanted high possession, high volume, a fast game, which we have been playing lately, but we couldn’t get into it with them,” he said. “Probably because they’re so good –their two best players are such competitors.”

TOUGH GO AT EOSSAA

Carleton Place represented the county at the Eastern Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association’s ‘AA’ tournament on Feb. 21 and 22 at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville.

TISS won the gold medal over St. Michael Catholic High School 69-35.

In the semi-finals, Carleton Place lost to Sydenham, 70-53. The Bears picked up a 64-27 win over St. Thomas Aquinas in pool

play, and lost to the gold medalists, 75-48.

Carleton Place team members include: Cameron Walker, Declan Hinze, Eli Bennett, Eli McClelland, Evan Herbert, Ewan Hemsworth, Haydon Hancock, Henry Grabe, Jake Brydges, Jaxon McVie, Joe Devlin, Lochlann Carey, Sam Lepage and Wyatt Marshall.

The Carleton Place Bears put on a show in Perth on Feb. 13 against the hosting Perth Blue Devils in Lanark County high school senior boys AA action. Carleton Place pulled out the win with a 51-48 upset. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca

tour-

The Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute RedHawks junior boys’ basketball team claimed the gold medal on Feb. 29 at the Eastern Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association tournament in Cornwall. It was redemption for the young squad who lost the gold medal game last year. Pictured: back row, left to right, Jayden Spencer, Todd Spencer, Jack VanWingerden, Mateo Compton, Cooper Smith, Isaac Drummond, Tyler Little, Colton Staples, Tyreese Carrion, Carson Lanigan, Dave Wells; front, Michael McIntyre, Ian Blondin, Michael Severe, Reed King, Nolan MacNeil and Kilian Morrison. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.