Perch 3

SITTING PRETTY & FEELING FINE IN ONTARIO’S FAR EAST.

WINTER 2018/19

Contents T H E R E E L Quick little capsules on sustainable living, cats in hats, games therapy, vicious visages, pretty products, auctioneer action 3

and more.

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T H I S

I S

S T E P

1 : T H E

Q U I Z

S T E P

2: G E T

I N S P I R E D

S T E P

3 : G E T

R E A D Y

S T E P

4 : F I N D

Y O U R

S T E P

5 : F U E L

U P

S T E P

6 : G E T

T H E

Y O U R

P E R C H

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I N T E R V E N T I O N

Wimp or warrior? Find out!

Not everybody hates winter!

Pack ‘em up, lace ‘em up, slide ‘em down.

T A R G E T

Then slay ‘em.

Eats and treats to fill your belly.

O U T S I D E

P U Z Z L E R

Just do it.

Can you solve this cool crossword?

COVER: Roger Daigle, C’est Top Photography.

THIS PAGE: Custom embroidery by Nancy Sylvester, Nancy Stitches.

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“If you choose not to find joy in the snow, you will have less joy in your life, but still the same amount of snow.”—Author unknown I love snow! More than snow, I love the feeling of defiance winter brings! I feel invincible when I am armoured with my long johns, mitts, scarves, toque, boots and my bright neon skidoo suit*.

Dressed like a winter warrior, I scoff at the bitter winds! I laugh in the face of cold! I mock snow squalls and sneer at slush!

Early on in the planning of this issue of Perch, we decided to take a deep dive into winter and explore the many ways in which this frigid season shapes our character and our activities. We hope our stories inspire you to find your winter wonderland.

Enjoy!

* For the record, I don’t own a skidoo; I just like one-piece outfits, no matter the season.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chantal Tranchemontagne SENIOR EDITORS Lauren McGill, Karine Parthenais WWW.PERCHMAGAZINE.COM Perch is published by Big Catch Communications Inc., 5 Third Street East, Cornwall, Ontario K6H 2C6.

All reproduction requests must be made to Copyright Access. ISSN: ISSN 2561-5912 (print), ISSN 25615920 (digital).

HAVE FEEDBACK? IDEAS? SECRETS? EMAIL US AT HELLO@PERCHMAGAZINE.COM.

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DESIGNERS Micheline Tremblay, Studio deLuxe (print); Karine Parthenais (digital) PROOFREADER: Katie Verhoeven CONTRIBUTORS Kyle Beaudette, Brendan Bronzan (Speaking of Space), Roger Daigle (C’est Top Photography), Betty D’Amour Donkers (Betty’s Photography), Carilyne Hébert, Lee Ladouceur (Ladouceur Photo), Todd Lihou, Jason McNamara (Framed Photography), Hannah Ross, Hugh Ross, Nancy Sylvester (Nancy Stitches), Doug Taillon

The Reel

HUMANS | HIGHLIGHTS | HAPPENINGS

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Dresser: My Vintage Soul Other pieces: Echo Trends

AS TE NOT, W

ANT NOT

A quick browse of Facebook’s local marketplace reveals scores of beautiful pieces that have been salvaged and lovingly transformed into something functional and beautiful. With their sanding, sawing, spackling, spraying and sealing, our local upcyclers are breathing new life into tired pieces that might otherwise clutter the landfill. Thanks to talent and elbow grease, they are reusing existing resources and contributing to the local drive for more sustainable practices. (CONTINUED ON P. 4)

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S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

(CONT.)

Other eco-efforts are underway, too.

Some local businesses like Schnitzels, Sheep’s Head Bistro and Love Love Food have joined the #byebyestraws movement and are investigating other ways to keep their waste down. “My customers have asked for better choices,” said Love Love owner Tony Lacroix who now offers paper takeout boxes for hot meals and who spent a month sourcing paper straws that didn’t easily disintegrate.

Then, there’s Transition Cornwall+. The local grassroots group continues its march on the trail towards sustainability. Along with establishing action groups dedicated to helping people face challenges like the rising cost of energy and food, they launched the Waste Reduction Action Group in November 2017.

“Our goal is to help people transition into lower waste options in their everyday lives,” says Carilyne Hébert, who spearheaded the group and who herself embraces the low-impact lifestyle. She carries a kit in her purse (cloth hankie, cutlery and a metal straw), uses low-waste bathroom essentials (metal razor and shampoo bar) and also makes a point of avoiding plastic and unsustainable packaging when she shops.

For its part, Cornwall’s Waste Management department introduced initiatives to divert materials from the landfill. Events include a Paint Reuse Centre, the Give A Shirt Program (donating used clothes on collection day) and Trash to Treasure Day (placing household items at the curb for others to collect and use) and the popular Waste Reduction Week.

Supervisor for the department, Danielle Watson, says, “We’re always trying to identify programs that can be implemented for everyone to participate.”

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As the news continues to remind us of our impact on our environment and our health, is it time for us all to practice an expanded definition of waste reduction—refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, recycle, and rot?

Absolutely! —Lauren McGill

T H E

K I T

Lessening your environmental impact doesn’t have to mean expensive electric cars and solar panels on our roofs. Put together a few to-go items and reduce the amount of waste you create! —Carilyne Hébert HANDKERCHIEF HANKIES are incredibly handy. Use them for a runny nose, to grab a cookie, or to use as a lunch napkin. Find beautiful vintage handkerchiefs for only $1 or $2 at McHaffies Flea Market in Morrisburg. mchaffiefleamarket.ca STAINLESS STEEL STRAW Straws suck.

In Canada, we can fill 5,500 school buses yearly with these discarded, non-recyclable items. Pick up a reusable one at Life’s Little Pleasures in Cornwall for $7.99. @lifeslittlepleasures BENTO BOX You don’t need to give up your favourite take-out food to keep your waste to a minimum. Just Make sure you have your LunchBots box from Kid’s Korner handy and ask nicely to have it served in your own container.

Only $21.99. @CornwallToys.77 TOTE BAG Tote bags can be used for more than hauling cauliflower and eggs.

Grab this cute and sizeable Crush Lane

tote for $24 and avoid a plastic bag at the thrift store, pharmacy, craft store and anywhere else you might shop. crushlane.com REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE A million plastic bottles are purchased every sixty seconds worldwide. A reusable water bottle will save you money and lessen the burden of plastic. Pick one up at Mrs. B’s Gifts & Home Décor for $26.95 to $32.95 mrsbsgifts.getpayd.com CUTLERY SET Next time you are at a family BBQ, take out your cutlery set from Laura’s Flowers and Fine Gifts. It could spark a great discussion! Yours for $20.99. lauras.ca TRAVEL MUG Many of us can’t get our day started without a stop at the coffee shop. Arrive prepared with your fave mug from Campbell Creative. Find yours at the The Maker Shop for $25. @CampbellCreativeService

Photo credit: Marc-André Levac

Marc-André spent more than seven hours making the beard and crown using hot glue, styling his hair and creating this face using MAC’s chromacake and studio fix powder in Shivering White, paired with aqua and teal shadows for shading, contouring and lips. This never-before-seen face was specially created for Perch.

T H E M A N Y FA C E S O F M A R C- A N D R É

A master of makeup is in our midst. Creepy or not, here he comes.

Most people like to Netflix and chill. Marc-André Levac prefers to Netflix and makeup. For the past four years, the 27-year-old amateur makeup artist, former pro cheerleader and full-time hairstylist has spent his time developing his skills, discovering new techniques, and exploring ways to unleash amazing effects.

“I once mixed charcoal toothpaste and strawberry jam to make a gooey black texture to ooze out of my mouth,” he says. (Irony alert: horror films terrify him).

Marc-André spends roughly four to five hours tackling each new visage. He takes a few minutes to snap pics of his work and then wipes his work away: “It’s the creative process that is the most fun for me. The highlight is being able to capture the right look and add it to my portfolio and Instagram.”

What comes next for this master of makeup? Marc-André dreams of doing makeup in the film industry one day and is set to attend IMATS, a makeup artist trade show in Los Angeles this January to acquire new skills and meet inspiring artists. We can imagine binge-watching a favourite Netflix series and seeing his work. Can you? —Karine Parthenais @marcandreeee 5

A R T T H E

O F Q U I L T

If you want someone to know about Mohawk language and culture, you wrap them in it while they’re still young. Sydney Jacobs understood this deeply when she launched Ken’niwá:’a in 2016, a carefully considered and crafted line of homegoods, clothing, art, and toys for children. This winter, consider picking up the 25-year-old designer’s Beadwork Quilt. Her bold, graphic design took her seven months to paint and celebrates the tradition of Kanien’kehá:ka beadwork. It makes for a stunning cuddle blanket for your little one not to mention a piece of powerful and practical art for your home. $140 for small, $200 for medium.

—Chantal Tranchemontagne Photo credit: Katie Bowles

T H E

H O O D

N O T When Cory Hagen found himself away at school at Acadia University in Nova Scotia, he longed to connect with his Glengarry roots. His solution for homesickness was starting an apparel line showcasing the community’s strong sense of pride.

The 22-year-old entrepreneur was inspired by fellow student Alex MacLean, founder of the hugely popular East Coast Lifestyle brand. For his part, the South Glengarry resident and current St. Lawrence College student produces tees, tanks and perfect-for-this-season hoodies under the Glengarry My Home label. The pullover, branded with his signature crest, is good quality, warm and oh-so soft. Consider adding this to your winter wardrobe!

Hoodies: $55 —Hannah Ross

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@glengarrymyhome

J U S T

F U N

A N D

G A M

E S

Role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons aren’t new but a social worker for the Mental Health Crisis Team at the Cornwall Community Hospital is putting a spin on it. Matthew Varette has launched Roll for Recovery, an organization that helps people work through trauma, anxiety and other challenges through gaming and role-playing.

While traditional therapy might feel daunting to some, Roll for Recovery provides a more relaxed—and more fun— approach. By playing board games—think Scrabble or Taboo— and role-playing games like D&D or Pugmire, players can work on lessening their social anxiety, building relationships, coping with anxiety or impulses, or strengthening resiliency.

“Using role-playing as a tool for therapy can be powerful.

You can step outside yourself and try out new skills without real-life consequences.”

As the organization gets rolling with new game night sessions, stay tuned to their Facebook page for upcoming dates.

—Chantal Tranchemontagne @RollforRecovery

Photo credit: @paulzhuk, Adobe Stock

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kenniwaa.com

F E L I N E

F I N E

BY K A R I N E PA R T H E N A I S PHOTO BY JASON MCNAMAR A

At first glance, big and burly Mark Sicard wouldn’t necessarily strike you as a feline lover, but this kind soul is dangerously close to being labelled a crazy cat man.

Why? Well, he has five.

white coat that had been malnourished, joined the clowder a few years ago. And finally, Hobbes was the love-at-first-sight addition when Mark spotted him across a crowded room at an adoption event.

“People pick on me for having a house full of cats, but I feel no shame about the fact that I have so many adorable kitties.” Not just any kitties. Rescue kitties.

“All my cats come from abusive situations, and it took quite some time for each of them to trust me and become comfortable with one another. It’s amazing to see how much they have grown,” says the 34-yearold with pride.

Mark, the Creative Director for Vivo Brand Management in Cornwall, started his adoption journey nearly fifteen years ago when he adopted his first, soft greyhaired, Ziggy. Beautiful one-eyed Emma joined soon after. Then came Marley, a Maine Coon who had to be hand-fed with a syringe because she was too young to be without her mother. Winks, another singleeyed beauty with a gorgeous black and

It’s a well-known fact that Cornwall has struggled with an overpopulation of cats for some time now. Shelters like the OSPCA of SD&G, the Akwesasne Animal Society,

and Bainsville’s Roy and Cher’s Animal Rescue are often at full capacity. With the chilly winter months approaching, adopting a cat is welcomed help. Mark, who has reached the limit of the number of cats he can legally have, advocates for others to adopt.

“Often shelters need to euthanize cats because they are at capacity. The thought of this happening to any cat breaks my heart,” he says. “Adopting is such an easy process, and some programs can help with the cost of neutering. Plus, nothing beats the joy of extending your family with a sweet kitty who needs a good home.”

This story gives us all the feels. Who wouldn’t want to cuddle up next to one of these furry cats—especially if they’re wearing hats?

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MEE T THE AUC TIONEER

P E T E R

R O S S

BY HANNAH ROSS I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y J A M E S L A P I E R R E

Peter Ross, a 52-year-old husband and father of two, heads up Peter Ross Auction Services Ltd. in Ingleside, ON, where he sells everything from livestock to real estate, and furniture to farm equipment. Perch sat down with him to learn more about life behind the mic.

What did you do before you were an auctioneer?

I ran a successful construction company for ten years. Also, I’ve always farmed, cash cropped, managed properties, and sold and appraised real estate.

Why did you become an auctioneer?

My father was an auctioneer, so I was exposed to the profession at a very young age. I started my auction house in 1995. I really like standing up in front of a crowd and selling, and going through the ins and outs of the auction process.

It doesn’t feel like work to me!

What is the most interesting thing you’ve ever sold?

That would have to be a series of 26 pieces of rare Canadian sports scene pottery that belonged to true collectors, the late Murray and Hazel Detweiler of Oxford Mills. Those dishes sold for more than $45,000. I was lucky to have the opportunity to sell them!

Best historical value?

I once sold an Army officer’s notebook from the war of 1812 originating from Dundas County.

The Cornwall Community Museum bought it for around $6,000.

How many auctions have you completed?

We have up to 300 sales a year and I figure I’ve done about 4,500 sales since starting out.

Have you ever saved something for yourself?

No.

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How many words per minute can you speak?

I’m not sure. But I can tell you I can sell a car a minute and about 100 items per hour!

B A R E B E A U T I E S

Plain Jane Soap Not a big fan of scents? This bar is made with all the goodness and purity of their other organic soaps but without essential oils. It also doubles as a super lathering shampoo bar!

Available at Life’s Little Pleasures and online. $10/160g Ground Soap, Cornwall groundsoap.com

Face cream A decadent, plantbased face cream made with grapeseed oil, olive oil, shea butter and other skintastic ingredients.

Available at Smoker’s HideAway, Akwesasne (Hogansburg). Shipping available. $20/2oz

Whipped Peppermint Legs & Feet Butter This all-natural butter smells like Christmas and will help keep your legs silky smooth during the dry winter months.

Available at Maker Gift Shop, Cornwall $10/4 oz

Snipe Clan Botanicals, Akwesasne

WILD, Cornwall

@SnipeClanBotanicals

@wildhandcrafted

Sore Muscles Bath Salts These 100% natural bath salts include Dead Sea, Pink Himalayan and Epsom and are scented with peppermint, rosemary leaf and lavandin essential oils. Order directly through Facebook. $16/16 oz

Lip Balm Plump those puckers with this natural lip balm that glides on and moisturizes. Specially formulated by an esthetician and cosmetician. Available at Mindful Cookery and Sapphire Spa. $4/tube

The Little Cottage Soap Shop, St. Andrew’s

Sapphire Spa, Cornwall @sapphirespa

bit.ly/cottagesoapshop Rejuvenating Face Serum With a blend of essential oils in a base of organic grape seed and rosehip oils, this serum regulates your skin’s natural oils. Available at Bee Real and Marrow & Spice, Cornwall, and The Community Market, Long Sault. $30/ 10ml

Body Scrub Slough away dull, dry skin with this natural body scrub. Turbinado sugar exfoliates and leaves skin radiant and soft. Maker will ship. Otherwise available at Mustard’s Variety, Iroquois, or direct from maker. $15/jar

Bee Real Healing Arts & Products, Cornwall

Lilly Bare Bath and Body, Iroquois

beereal.ca

The best locally-made skincare products to keep you glowing all winter long.

— La u re n M c G i ll

@lillybarebathandbody 9

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welcome to your

WINTERVENTION A compendium of cold winter fun, facts and food.

(And a sprinkling of alliteration also.)

BY TO D D L I H O U, L AU R E N M C G I L L , K A R I N E PA R T H E N A I S, H A N N A H R O S S , H U G H R O S S , C H A N TA L T R A N C H E M O N TA G N E & K AT I E V E R H O E V E N I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y K Y L E B E A U D E T T E

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STEP

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READ EACH QUESTION AND CIRCLE THE ANSWER THAT MOST APPLIES TO YOU. 1. I would describe myself as: a) An introvert. b) An extrovert. c) A creature of habit. d) An adventure seeker.

2. My wardrobe is mostly made up of:

Kn T hys f Take the quiz to discover your winter personality.

a) Neutral colours. b) Florals and other snazzy patterns. c) A little bit of everything. d) All of the above.

3. How do you feel about layers? a) Layers of blankets? So much yes! b) One layer is OK, two max. c) I’d rather bundle up than freeze to death! d) Layers are an essential part of winter, I’m down!

4. Pick a winter jacket: a) Why? b) I don’t need a winter jacket. c) I’m indifferent. d) A parka.

5. What is most important to you when shopping for winter gear?

a) A steaming hot bowl of chicken noodle soup. b) Anything on the BBQ. c) A hearty bowl of chili. d) All of the above...and more.

8. Pick a beverage: a) Tea. b) Margarita. c) Beer. d) Hot chocolate.

9. Your grandma crochets a gift for you? What is it? a) A cozy pair of slippers. b) A bikini. c) A warm toque. d) An epic scarf.

10. What will you spend your money on? a) Cozy wool socks. b) A plane ticket. c) A family ski pass. d) Neon ski goggles!

11. Pick a classic winter movie:

a) Style.

a) Home Alone.

b) I don’t really shop for winter gear.

b) Christmas With The Kranks.

c) Quality.

c) How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

d) Durability.

d) The Mighty Ducks.

6. Pick an accessory:

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7. My go to comfort food is:

12. It’s cold outside. What do you do?

a) Headphones.

a) Drink warm apple cider.

b) Sunglasses.

b) Tan on the beach in Florida.

c) Gloves.

c) Stay inside and play some board games.

d) Ski goggles.

d) There’s no such thing as too cold!

If you chose mostly Bs, you are:

A SOUTHERN ESCAPE ARTIST Winter excites you—not because you intend to hit the slopes or build a snowman—but because you can finally escape to your tropical oasis. You love hopping on a plane, planting your chair in the sand, and relaxing with a Piña Colada in one hand and a good book in the other. Pack the sunblock!

If you chose mostly As, you are:

A HIBERNATOR

You hate winter, especially when it means bundling up and shovelling the driveway. When the temperature drops, you hunker down and bolt the doors, avoiding winter at all costs.

Your idea of the perfect winter night is staying inside, wrapped in a fuzzy blanket by the fire. Netflix and chill counts as a winter activity, right?

ab cd

If you chose mostly Ds, you are:

A WINTER WARrIOR You anxiously await the first snowfall of the year because it means you can finally break out your layers! Winter makes you feel like a kid again—you always instigate a snowball fight or rally together a group of old friends to play pond hockey. You’re a total cold temp junky, and spend hours outside snowshoeing or skiing or skating. See you on the slopes!

If you chose mostly Cs, you are:

AN APATHETIC TOLERATOR Winter isn’t necessarily your jam but you’re fully invested anyway. The first snowfall means cracking out the snow blower to make sure you have the driveway cleared first thing in the morning so you can chauffeur your kids to their outdoor activities. One day, you might warm up to the idea of winter, but you’re not ready to call it your favourite season just yet. Worry not! The snow will melt soon enough.

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STEP

2 Be I p ed Meet four fine folks who celebrate when the mercur y drops and the s n o w f l a k e s f l y.

LAURIE BRUYERE, 45, TEACHER, WILlIAMSTOWN PUBLIC SCHOoL On July 29th of this year, in the throes of a summer heat wave, Laurie posted to her Facebook page: “To be back skiing again...sigh.” She’ll readily admit that she lives for winter because “it’s the most magical time of the year.”

When I was in high school, I worked at Big Ben ski hill. I’d run the little canteen inside and work the tow rope sometimes. Back then, I didn’t have a crazy love for skiing and was busy with other sports. My dad took us kids to Titus once or twice a year, but that was the extent of my outdoor winter excursions.

My passion for winter and skiing came on when I had my kids. Now, every Saturday during the winter months, I bring Owen, 11, and Olivia, 8, to the ski hill no matter what. We leave the house at about quarter to seven in the morning and we’re gone until eight o’clock at night.

It might be mild and pouring rain, or -40 degrees Celcius with the windchill. Doesn’t matter. We are at Titus. And we are there to ski. We rarely head into the chalet, except to eat our packed lunch.

I absolutely love the days when I get to watch my kids zip down the mountain, but more than that I love that I get to ski with them. They don’t really need me anymore, but they still choose to hang out with me. I feel pretty great about that.

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LEe LADOUCEUR, 34, PHOTOGRAPHER, LADOUCEUR PHOTO If you happen to be at Lamoureux Park in the wee hours on a snowy night, it’s very likely you will run into Lee Ladouceur. The 34-year-old photographer loves to head out in winter in search of a great shot.

I actually hate the cold, but I love trudging through deep snow late at night while the city is sleeping.

Winter at night is like a completely different world. If I head to Lamoureux Park during the day, it’s full of people. But in the middle of the night it’s like a clean canvas, blanketed in snow. The only footsteps that I see are my own.

Freshly fallen snow has a way of making everything look more luscious and beautiful, more surreal.

I love the textures that winter produces—icy rocks, frozen water, pillowy shapes. And light acts so differently in winter. It reflects off the water or shines right through it.

Heading out in the cold and dark is a meditative experience for me. It gives me the serenity, silence and stillness that I need to do serious work. Some people do yoga; I take photographs.

This solitude suits my personality and gives me time to think deeply and hone my skills. I like to take chances to get photos that no one else will take. Winter lets me do that.

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PENnY PETERS, 39, TOURISM INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, ST. REGIS MOHAWK TRIBE Penny was the kid that everyone wanted on their hockey team. She played goalie. She was good. As in National Women’s Hockey League good. She has spent a lifetime on frozen ponds and in frigid arenas cultivating her talent so it’s only fitting that this Akwesasronon covets the cold.

I love winter because I don’t like summer. I don’t like the heat! My father was a trapper, mostly for muskrat and beaver, so I spent a lot of time on the marsh and snowmobile trails in the wintertime. Plus, I’m passionate about hockey. I’ve played and coached my whole life. When I was growing up, the only time I had access to ice was when the river froze over. So I really looked forward to that time of the year.

I have a four-year-old daughter so I want to make sure she loves winter too. We spend a lot of time outdoors, making snow sculptures, walking, hiking and sledding. And because we live by the river, it’s easy to clean off a piece of ice and skate.

I am that person who posts pictures of the first snowfall. And when spring comes around, I’ll post ‘Bring winter back!’

Many people pick on me about that. But I think they’re the ones who are crazy for liking summer.

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BRUCE TAIT, 53, OPERATOR, KRAFT HEINZ CANADA For more than ten years, Bruce Tait has been honing his ice-making skills, propelled by his love of hockey, family, and good old-fashioned Canadiana.

Some people like it when it’s hot, but I love it when it’s cold. That’s the best time for making ice. My first experience with ice-making was our backyard rink because we thought it would be nice for my son and daughter to have an extra space to practice. It was pretty well the whole backyard...about 50 feet by 50 feet...and most of the time it was me out there with a garden hose. Sometimes the grass would be coming up through the ice in the spring and the kids would still be out there.

Then I saw an ad in the paper looking for volunteers to maintain city rinks. I called and they set me up at Menard Park with some firemen hoses, about 200 feet. When I first started I was working nights, so when I got home in the morning I would head over and start watering. One of the first years it was late March and I was still doing the ice. It was minus 40 a couple of times that winter and it was great for making ice.

I have learned over the years what works. I find now when I do it, once I get a whole base, I scrape it all off and just use light water to make it smooth. If you use too much water, it all pools and then you get ripples in the ice.

Parents have come to me and told me that their kids have learned to skate on this rink. To see those kids playing on the rink—that’s the best part.

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Get Ready

STEP

A roundup of essentials to help you weather winter.

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D O

T H E

S L I D E

Are you a total speed demon or do you prefer to take it easy and enjoy the scenery on the snow hill? This handy chart will help you decide what the best sliding implement is for you based on your need for speed or appreciation for an old classic.

CLASSIC

Traditional baby sleigh

Wooden toboggan

Crazy carpet

Piece of cardboard Inner tube Spiral Saucer Sled

Cafeteria tray

FAST Foam Board Sled

Mega Blitz Sled

Stiga GT Snowracer Manitou-X Slow Sled

X-Games 2-in-1 Sled and Snowboard

Special thanks to Canadian Tire for providing images (with the exception of the cardboard and cafeteria tray). canadiantire.ca 1 8

Stiga Kick Combo Scooter

NEW SCHOOL

Yamaha Viper Snow Racer

Cardboard: © Can Stock Photo / scis65 Tray: © Can Stock Photo / magraphics

SLOW

G E A R

U P

You love the winter, but there’s no room in the garage for all the equipment.

We’ve got you covered, with this list of local rental options.

Total Cyclery and Sports totalcyclery.ca

Snowshoes, poles, downhill skis and boots for rent.

Cyclists looking to enjoy a brisk ride on the snow can also rent fat bikes. Best to reserve in advance.

South Dundas Recreation Sport Lending Library bit.ly/sdlendinglibrary

Cross-country skis, poles and boots for kids and adults.

Summerstown Trails, South Glengarry summerstowntrails.com

Cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals at the trailhead on weekends throughout the winter season. Check for details before heading out.

Upper Canada Bird Sanctuary bit.ly/ucbirdsanctuary

Rentals available for ski and snowshoe enthusiasts (conditions permitting) at the Visitor Centre. Open on weekend afternoons.

Countryside Adventures, Moose Creek @countrysidedventuresOnt

Skates and snowshoes for rent to explore the forest trails.

Warm up at the food truck or by the fire!

Loiselle Sports, Alexandria loisellesports.com

ATV and snowmobile rentals. Included in the fee: an Ontario and Quebec trail pass and insurance! BYO helmets and winter clothing!

Collette’s Ice Hut Rentals, Hoople Bay 613-537-8557

Enjoy ice fishing from the comfort of your own heated ice fishing hut.

H O W T O B U I L D A S N O W A C C O R D I N G T O D A V I D

C A V E , J A N S

In recent years, local magician and engineer David Jans has taken snow fort building to the next level. Over the course of two days, he and his family transformed a snow hill into a 23-foot-long, 15-foot-wide and 8-foot-tall snow cave, complete with load-bearing pillars, snow furniture, and enough space for 25 people. If this winter’s weather cooperates, the clan plans on building a two-storey fort. Here, he shares a few tips on building your own epic winter hut.

C O Z Y

C O M

These are a few of our favourite things. Stay warm, kids!

You have ten little fingers to keep warm so treat yourself to custom mittens. Snag a pair at the Maker Gift Shop. @CrazyKnitterCreations Warmth comes in any colour with these wool neck warmers. Each cowl is stitched with love and made to order. DM to get yours. @mimimustknit Made of lambswool and kid mohair, each hat is handmade on The Millinery at Cornerstone Farm in Green Valley. cornerstonefarm.ca Stay snug as a bug in this made-in-New-Zealand Klippan lambswool blanket. Its wool can be traced to the farm where it was sourced! @lifeslittlepleasures2 Wrap yourself in a layer of coziness with this poncho. Wear it for your 9-to-5 and then make an entrance at your cinq-à-sept.

GATHER THE SNOW The Jans family collected snow for three weeks before they began digging. “Our dad blew snow from all around the yard into one massive pile. After leaving it to sit and settle for a few days, my brother Kevin and I started to dig a tunnel from opposite ends,” reports David.

GET THE PROPER TOOLS While papa Jans had access to some heavy duty equipment, a regular snowblower and good ol’ shovels would do the trick to begin building your mountain.

PLAY SAFE Always keep safety first when tackling a snow hill. “The number one rule is to dig with at least with one other person and to also let someone else know that you’ll be digging under snow.”

THINK BIG The sky’s the limit! Get creative and make it a family affair. David says anyone can build a giant fort like theirs—all you really need is some determination, a snow pile, and some eager helpers.

F O R T S

@squireshop These beaded Metis Mukluks made with natural hide and fur can withstand anything winter throws at you. bit.ly/purpleribbongift 1 9

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F A C T S

N O T Y O U R M A M A ’S H O T C H O C O L A T E

When the mercury drops, winter can bring us varying degrees of interesting facts.

The temperature causes all kinds of unusual things to occur both close to home and in far away places.

7.2°C: When we can begin to see our breath when we exhale. No, we aren’t fog breathing dragons, the cooler weather causes the water vapour in our breath to convert from a gas to tiny water droplets.

0°C: When our tongue will stick to a metal pole. The conductivity of the metal pole draws the heat from our tongue causing it to freeze to the pole.

-1°C: When Wood Frogs can freeze alive and still survive. Wood Frogs will freeze solid and can thaw without any damage to their internal systems.

Frog-sickles anyone?

-23°C: When soap bubbles can freeze.

The three layers of water in a soap bubble freeze at varying temperatures creating a soapy crystalline bubble.

-30°C: When boiling water either turns to snow when thrown in air or results in a trip to the emergency room with third-degree burns.

-50°C: The temperature at which outdoor livestock can be frozen to the ground they’re standing on. The cold temperature causes the bonds between the animal and the ground to adhere and freeze solid.

-97.8°C: The coldest temperature ever recorded on earth, recorded in 2018 in the depths of Antarctica. Brrrrr.

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Serves 2 In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add one 15 oz can coconut milk and 1/2 cup almond milk (or regular milk).

Whisk in 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips, 2 tbsp cocoa powder and 1/2 tsp vanilla; mix until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add in a tiny pinch of salt. Adjust to taste and pour into two mugs.

THE TEN COMmANDMENTS (OF WINTER) 1. Never stick your tongue on a metal pole. 2. Don’t eat yellow snow. Ever.

3. Keep your stick on the ice. 4. Put your snow tires on in October. 5. Never put frozen feet in a hot bath. 6. Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize. 7. Always dry your skate blades. 8. Mind the windchill. 9. Wear layers. If you’re still cold, add more. 10. Never, EVER, complain about the weather.

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Gilles Plourde is the third generation Plourde to run the shoe repair shop at 431 Water Street East in Cornwall. We caught up with him to ask him about winter boot maintenance.

First up: Gilles’ non-negotiable rules.

1 Clean, polish, protect, repeat.

2. For each of these steps, always test on an inconspicuous spot (like the arch).

3. When storing, use a shoe tree or stuff your boots with grocery bags, a small towel or even some newspaper.

SMOOTH LEATHER When new: Use a dry cloth to rub entire leather surface with mink oil before wearing.

Every two weeks: • Wash with a damp cloth (use water or leather cleaner).

• Polish* (Tana cream or Kiwi paste are Gilles’ favourites).

• Spray with leather protector or re-apply mink oil. *Polish can be done every four weeks.

SUEDE & NUBUCK When new: Spray with a suede/ nubuck protector before wearing.

Every two weeks: • Wash with water and white vinegar. For bad stains, use undiluted vinegar.

• For suede, use a suede brush to keep texture fresh.

For nubuck, no brushing or polishing.

• Spray with leather protector.

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EATH ER

Be more prepared to describe what’s happening outside your window.

An unusual kind of thunderstorm with snow falling instead of rain. It typically falls in regions of strong upward motion within the cold sector of an extra-tropical cyclone.

A soft snowflake coated in frost that looks more like sleet than snow. That frost is called rime ice and is the same stuff stuck to trees and grass after a bout of freezing fog. Catch one if you can!

An area of low pressure hangs out in polar regions, but sometimes this wide expanse of swirling cold air strays a little bit too far from its home up North. Part of it can break off and migrate southward, bringing all of that cold air with it.

Credited to blogger Greg Swan in April 2007 as a satirical response to local media’s coverage of a lackluster Minneapolis storm. First published in the popular press in Canada during January 2009. Interchangeable terms include Snowzilla, Snowpocalypse, or Superstorm.

This phenomenon occurs when a midlatitude cyclone rapidly intensifies, dropping at least 24 millibars over 24 hours.

(A millibar measures atmospheric pressure.) For example, when a cold air mass collides with a warm air mass, then BLAMMO! You have the formation of a rapidly strengthening weather system.

H OM E R EM EDIES

We all know the dreaded symptoms. The scratchy throat. The runny nose. The stuffy head. A cold is coming and gosh, darn it, you will not be decimated by it. Not this year! Try one or more of the remedies below.

BUMBLEBEE REMEDY: Have a heaping spoonful of Stewart Honey’s award-winning raw honey infused with organic raw garlic. Both main ingredients are said to have quick-acting healing properties. You may not feel kissable after, but you just may feel better!

613-525-0402 SOUPER COMFORT Comfort yourself with a steaming hot bowl of Seaway Valley Soup’s Curry Lentil soup. It couldn’t be easier—just dump the ingredients into chicken stock, simmer, then sip and slurp to your heart’s content! jimdales69@gmail.com TEA IT UP Brew up a steaming cup of Kick That Cold Tea. This warming tea is a spicy blend of lemongrass leaves, citrus, apple pieces, cinnamon bits, hibiscus petals, cardamom, clove and ginger.

FIRE BREATHING DRAGON Mix a small pinch of cayenne pepper in an ounce of orange juice. Shoot it. (If needed, follow with a glass of milk or slice of bread to cut the burn.)

PUCKER UP Swallow a few spoonfuls of raw apple cider vinegar. Can be diluted with a bit of hot water and some maple syrup to make it more palatable.

MUSTARD PLASTER Mix 2 tbsp dry mustard with 4 tbsp flour; add enough water to make a paste. Spread the paste on thin cotton or cheesecloth; fold and place it on your chest.

Leave on no longer than 20 minutes, checking skin often for blisters. This one is definitely “Try at your own risk”.

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STEP

F d Y T geʦ Discover your version of snow y fun — by day and by night.

GET OUT! It’s snowy and cold...and you love it. Here’s a lineup of winter activities where you can get your fill of fun and family.

COUNTRYSIDE ADVENTURES This in-the-woods adventure hub in Moose Creek offers a smorgasbord of winter activities including skating, snowshoeing, a food truck and fire pits. New this year is a three-kilometre trail for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. @countrysideadventuresOnt AKWESASNE WINTER CARNIVAL This popular carnival has been running every February for close to three decades. Past events have included dog sled rides, outdoor timed obstacle races, snowga (yoga in the snow!) and several cook-offs. Planning is just getting underway, so keep your eyes peeled to Facebook for details.

TWO CREEKS CONSERVATION AREA Enjoy 457 acres of wilderness between Morrisburg and Iroquois, including 4.5 km of marked trails that are prime for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking. bit.ly/twocreekssd DION IGNITE THE NIGHT SNOWSHOE RACE The only night-time race in the Dion Ontario Snowshoe Running Series takes place surrounded by the magic of Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg. The January 12, 2019 event is open to anyone. healthandadventure.com HOCKEY WITH HEART This homegrown event, happening on February 15 and 16, 2019 at the local Williamstown outdoor rink, takes the passion for “the game” and transforms it into a fundraiser to benefit a local charity. Look out for the FB event page in the new year.

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FIND IT AND GLIDE IT 45° 1’ 50.1924’’ N, 74° 53’ 26.0124’’ W The Long Sault Hill is a classic destination for sledders. It has multiple levels and varying tracks so you can find the right angle for every family member, big or little! A perfect hill for adventurers of all sliding levels.

45° 5’ 50.7624’’ N, 74° 47’ 47.3352’’ W With its gradual slope, the traditional St. Andrews Hill is perfect for a new tobogganer or anyone who prefers a more leisurely ride.

This bunny hill is a busy spot in wintertime, but luckily there’s lots of parking!

45° 0’ 51.1308’’ N, 74° 43’ 34.8348’’ W Steps away from the downtown, the fun Lamoureux Park Hill is long and wide with lots of room for everyone in the family. A must-do urban sledding experience with a gorgeous river view.

44° 56’ 31.4808’’ N, 75° 4’ 12.6696’’ W Are you a thrill seeker? The Upper Canada Village Hill is for you. This slope is incredibly steep and if you’re not careful, you could end up in the river! It goes without saying that this hill isn’t for beginners!

44° 59’ 32.4168’’ N, 74° 44’ 22.1532’’ W Nestled on the side of the bridge that leads to the US Customs, the Akwesasne Hill is a little-known tobogganing spot with an excellent incline—enough to pick up some serious speed!

Photo credit: Halfpoint, Adobe Stock

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nzan Brendan Bro

LOOK UP , LOOK W

AAAAAY UP

You may have participated in one of Brendan Bronzan’s Sidewalk Astronomy events throughout the summer, but the 33-year-old Cornwallite, astronomy buff, and founder of Speaking of Space would like you to know that winter is the best time for stargazing. Check out his suggestions for winter sky sightings.

Start by following these steps. First, find the Big Dipper and face it. Then, turn 180 degrees, lay down and look up. This map (above) is what you should see. Finally, follow the map and enjoy the night sky!

ORION CONSTELLATION

ORION NEBULLA

PLEIDES CONSTELLATION

TAURUS CONSTELLATION

SIRIUS A STAR

This is one of the most recognizable constellations ever and it’s only out in the winter months. The top star, called Betelgeuse, is a massive red supergiant.

It could supernova (blow up) at any point. I’m just waiting for it.

The Orion Nebulla is made up of a huge collection of gas and dust.

It’s like a stellar buffet.

There’s so much stellar material—hydrogen gas specifically—that it is the perfect environment for new stars to form.

The Pleides, also known as the Seven Sisters are seven very bright stars packed into a very small area. And they’re so close that some of the stellar gas surrounding them is illuminated by the stars.

This constellation makes a “V” in the sky. The brightest star in Taurus is Alderbaran, which is the 14th brightest star in the sky. It’s red and it’s the eye of Taurus, the bull. I think it’s just kind of neat.

I picked this one because it’s the brightest star in the sky. It looks like it’s flickering because the atmosphere distorts it. Fun fact: the Sirius System is gradually moving closer to Earth which means it’s getting brighter all the time.

Check out Brendan’s work:

speakingof.space

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STEP

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Fu Up Come in from the cold and put some f i r e i n y o ’ b e l l y.

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AR OUND TH E R EGION IN

S OUP S , S IP S & S ER V INGS

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1 MUSHROOM SOUP The Quirky Carrot, Alexandria Enjoy this creamy white wine broth infused with flavours from button, shiitake and portobello mushrooms after a lunchtime walk through the village.

The thyme and cracked pepper garnish make this bowl irresistible.

2 FRENCH ONION SOUP Butler’s Restaurant, Ingleside A hot bowl of caramelized onions in a sherry beef broth baked to perfection with a mountain of flavoured croutons and melted mozzarella. This classic starter is the perfect warm up on the coldest of winter nights.

3 CORN SOUP Three Feathers Internet Cafe, Akwesasne (Hogansburg) Stop in for a hot bowl of this traditional soup made with hominy corn, beef, carrots, and red kidney beans. The process to make this authentic dish is quite extensive, but worth every slurp.

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4 RAW BEEF PHO Tiny Table, Cornwall Defrost over thin layers of beef piled onto rice noodles that cook as the hot broth is ladled into the bowl.

Individually topped with bean sprouts, basil and your favourite hot sauces.

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5 GREEN SMOOTHIE Garden Green Organics, Akwesasne (Cornwall Island) Made with only the freshest ingredients from their growing facility in Akwesasne, this green drink is packed with organic goodness to replenish any nutrients your body may be missing over these cool winter months.

6 HOT TODDY Smoking Bull, Alexandria Whiskey burns just right when you mix it with honey, lemon and piping hot water. Sip on this Kentucky bourbon winter warmer after an afternoon of outdoor fun!

7 POLAR VORTEX ICE WINE Smokie Ridge, Mountain A new phenomenon in dessert wine is best enjoyed chilled, on its own or served with your favourite after-dinner sweet.

Share a bottle with your besties during an evening snowstorm.

8 VEGAN SOY LATTE Simply Jennifer, Cornwall Keep it simple with a vegan-friendly latte to start your cool trek to the office.

Always frothed to perfection and made with love, the single shot of espresso and warmed soy milk is a great way to start the day.

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9 PANEER BHURJI Tandoor House, Cornwall A spicy—real spicy!—cottage cheese scramble with fresh veggies and an array of spices is a must if you’re looking to heat things up! A generous portion to share over a cozy fire.

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10 FRIED CHICKEN Mary’s, Winchester Homestyle fried chicken counts as wintry comfort food when it’s made just the way you like it! Crispy on the outside and tender, juicy meat on the inside. Pick this up with your favourite sides for an easy meal after a long trek home in the snow.

11 GREEN ACRES PIZZA Schnitzels European Flavours, Cornwall Pizza tastes better when you’re sitting by a wood burning oven after a snowy stroll downtown.

Have a delicious slice made with basil pesto, roasted vegetables, mozzarella jack and goat cheese.

12 LUMBERJACK BREAKFAST Christine’s Restaurant, Alexandria The perfect meal after shovelling two feet of snow off of your driveway. Three eggs the way you like ‘em, sausage, bacon, ham, home fries with your choice of toast.

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MEATLOAF Sherry’s, Williamsburg

LASAGNA Casa Paolo, Cornwall

Meatloaf may be the ultimate, stickto-your-ribs food for the winter months.

Baked to perfection, the convenience of this meal-to-go is a must when you’re anywhere near South Dundas.

Makes great leftovers too!

It’s a romantic affair when fresh ingredients and house-made pasta make up a delicious plate of lasagna.

Enjoy every bite of this authentic dish while watching the snow fall with the one you love.

15 RIB EYE & BAKED POTATO Quinn’s Inn, St. Andrews Cut to order and flame broiled to perfection, this 12 oz slice of steak is perfect if you’ve got a hearty appetite.

Enjoy it with your choice of potato and fresh veggies when you’re suffering from a snowy case of the Mondays.

16 GAENG GAREE GAI Khmer, Cornwall Enjoy just the right amount of spice with this yellow curry dish served with tender chicken, potato wedges and a savoury coconut milk sauce. This dish is served on a bed of steamed rice and is perfect for pick-up on a cool winter night.

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17 PECAN PIE Rockin’ Rhonda’s, Avonmore Is there anything better than a slice of pie after your favourite holiday meal? Locally sourced ingredients are the key to this mouth-watering treat. (Don’t worry—we won’t tell mom how much you love it.)

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18 SWEET ROTI Bangkok, Cornwall This exotic “beavertail” is the perfect sweet treat when you need a sugar fix. The thin pastry, similar to an Indian flatbread, is pan-fried and topped with icing sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you dare.

19 WAFFLE GRILLED CHEESE Love Love Food Shop, Cornwall House-made waffles.

Fresh cranberry sauce. Caramelized onions and brie.

This treat is something to savour when you’re looking to chase those winter blues away.

20 CINNAMON BUNS Loughlin’s Country Store, Mountain Who doesn’t love an ooey-gooey roll of goodness? Drive through the counties and pick up this famous morning treat and if you have any kind of self control, save it for dessert. Caution: Do not put your sticky fingers in mittens!

STEP

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Get Ouʦide Consider this your call to action.

Snowboarder: Matt McColl Photographer: Lee Ladouceur

ADMIT IT. WINTER IS PRETTY COOL. Get out there, you fearless Canuck! Hold your toques high and your hockey sticks low. Toboggan like you’ve never tobogganed before. Do what you gotta do to bear the cold, even if that means you use Hotshots hand and foot warmers like they’re going out of style.

Be like this guy, who found glory hucking himself off the roof of a Pitt Street building into a big pile of white stuff. That, friends, is what we call Winter Stoke. Go get some.

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Photo credit: Betty D’Amour Donkers, Betty’s Photography

Thank You

We’re incredibly grateful for the support Perch receives from our community. Because we don’t place ads in our pages, we rely solely on sponsorship from local supporters.

Your contributions allow us to continue sharing the amazing stories that come out of Cornwall, Akwesasne and SD&G. Furthermore, the funds give us the chance work with the many creatives who live amongst us and who generously supply content for each and every issue.

We would also like to thank local patrons who contribute from the goodness of their hearts because they truly believe in our project. Every little bit counts and we appreciate your support! —The Perch Team

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