Inside Wellington December 20, 2013

INSIDE WELLINGT­­­ON Second Section DECEMBER 20, 2013

Healing through therapeutic touch ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Fergus dancer to perform in The Nutcracker

Turn to our Alma Christmas Parade feature on page 4

EVENTS Senior lifestyles COUNTY PAGE RURAL LIFE SPORTS

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PAGE TWO Inside Wellington - Second Section of the Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013

Inside Wellington Events Send your Non-Profit/Charitable event info to: events@wellingtonadvertiser.com 20-25 words, 4 weeks prior to event date

o ve r

$5,000 in cash prizes

Sunday Jan. 12, 2014 Admission $45

Public service announcements “How Dreams Lead To Success� (700 to 800 words) essay competition open to students under 19 who have not yet graduated high school. Contest deadline: Feb. 1, 2014. No essays accepted after 6pm. Submit essays with attached application to Optimist Club of Centre Wellington, 322 Argyll St., Fergus. N1M 2Y3. Call Melanie Turner at 519-787-0298 for more information. *** Drug Problem? We have been there, we can help. More information at www.na.org. Local information at www.gtascna.on.ca.

Meeting Information 1-888-811-3887, Golden Triangle Area Narcotics Anonymous. *** The Mood Disorders Support Group of Guelph is an all inclusive, non-profit, self-help, peer-run organization that supports people with mood disorders and their loved ones. We meet every Tuesday in downtown Guelph at 40 Baker Street, 7-9pm. Call 519-766-4477 for information.

Fri. Dec. 20

Held under lottery license #M713257. Fergus Elora Rotary Foundation www.ferguselorarotary.com

Elora Festival Singers - Winter Concert Series 2013-2014 Festival of Carols, 7:30pm
St. John’s Church, Elora. Tickets on sale now, 519-846-0331. *** Arthur Legion Wing Night 6 to 8pm. All you can eat $14, no take outs. Entertainment by Mary Lynn Woods. *** A Christmas Story; The Movie (one night only). Dec. 20, 7pm at Fergus Grand Theatre. Support Groves Hospital Foundation.

Staffed by: Centre Wellington Rotary Club and Fergus Elora Rotary Club Held at Grand River Raceway 7445 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora

Sat. Dec. 21

includes all games (extra strips available)

Proceeds to Local Community Projects

Emmanuel Christmas Concert - featuring Life Community Chorale, Dec. 21 and 22, 6:30pm, River of Life International Fellowship, 40 Margaret St. Guelph. For information call 519827-1565. ***

church service directory

Pastor Elina Salonen

Sundays

Worship 10:00am, Fellowship 11:00am Visit us at our website: www.faithfergus.ca

Arthur United Church Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors 7:00pm - Lessons & Carols

Sunday 9:30 am Sunday 10:30 am Tuesday 7:00 pm Wednesday 6:30-8:00 pm

Bible Study Worship Service Prayer Meeting AWANA Children’s Program Ages 2 to Grade 6

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675 Victoria Terrace, Fergus 519.843.2890 Pastor, Paul Hudson www.bethelbaptistfergus.com

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9 Lessons Christ Church in Anglican Carols

Featuring the St.Eve John’s Church Christmas Service (Elora) Quartet 7:00pm Sunday, December 22, 2013 Christmas Communion by9:30am lamplight

EVERYONE WELCOME! Christ Church Anglican

Robert Hulse atCanon the corner of Main St. at corner& of Main St. and Elm St. Elm St. Drayton Drayton

Sun. Dec. 22

Cantata - Love’s Pure Light, 2:30pm, St. Mary’s RC Church, Mount Forest and Dec. 23, 7:30pm, St. John’s RC Church, Arthur.

Performed by area choirs. Free will offering. *** “Follow the Star� Live outdoor Nativity, St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Wellington Rd. 22 at 5th Line, 4 to 8pm. Chili and hot drinks 4 to 5pm. Donations welcome. Call Marcia 519-787-1973. *** Christmas Carolling in James Lynch Park, Everton, 6:30pm.

Sponsored by Everton Community Church. For more information call 519-856-1185. *** Got milk? Come out to the Alma Santa Claus Parade with an item for the food bank and receive a chocolate milk. Just watch for the “Farmers Feed Families� float. Have a dairy Christmas!

Tues. Dec. 24

Christmas Eve lessons and carols, 7pm, at St. John’s United Church, Belwood. *** Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, 8:30pm, St. Paul’s United, Metz. *** Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Everton Community Church, 0379 Evert St., Everton, 6:30pm. For more information call 519856-1185. *** Eden Mills Presbyterian Church Christmas Eve service of lessons and carols will be held at 7pm. Special music by the choir. All are welcome. *** Arthur United Church Candle light Christmas Eve Service, 7:30pm. Everyone welcome. Merry Christmas! *** St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Arthur Christmas Eve Service 7:30pm. All welcome, nursery provided.

Fri. Dec. 27

290 Belsyde Ave. E. Fergus 519-843-5030

Christmas Eve Service

Arthur Legion Jamboree 2 to 5pm. For more information call Nancy 519-848-5702. *** Arthur Legion Christmas Karaoke 8:30pm. *** “Christmas in the Village� presented by Sacred Heart Parish and St. John’s Anglican Church. 7pm, St. John’s Anglican Church, 112 Guelph St., Rockwood. Adults $15, children $5. Call Bob 519856-9480 or Barb 519-856-0022. Tickets available at door. *** Alma Optimist Club Country Dance, Alma Community Centre.

8pm to midnight, $12.50. Dance to Bill Beattie Band.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service December 24, 2013 7:30 pm Everyone is Welcome!

We seek, we pray, we act, knowing Jesus is amongst us December 22nd - Advent Four Love Choir Cantata Service at 10:30am Christmas Eve Services: 6:30pm Family Service 10:00pm Candlelight Service & Communion All are Welcome!

May you walk in peace in this season of Christmas 300 St. Andrew St. W. Fergus 519.843.1781

Christ Church Anglican

PLEASE READ:

Christmas Eve Service 7:00pm Christmas Communion Christmas Communion We want to hear bybylamplight from you! lamplight EVERYONE WELCOME! THIS IS EXACTLY HOW Canon Robert Hulse YOUR AD WILL APPEAR at of St. ElmSt. St.Drayton Drayton at corner corner of Main Main St.and & Elm IN THE NEWSPAPER.

Ladies Coffee Hour in Rockwood, last Friday of the month, 9:3011:30am. Everyone welcome. St. John’s Anglican Church, 112 Guelph St. For more information call 519-856-9211. *** All Saints Community Dinner. Spaghetti and meat balls, salad, bread and dessert. No sermon and no charge; free will offerings gratefully accepted and gluten-free available. 81 Main Street, Erin.

Sun. Dec. 29

Palmerston Legion Jamboree, 1pm. Hot Meal at 5pm. For more information contact 519-343-2004.

Tues. Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Dance, Elora Legion, featuring Country Versatiles.

Doors open 6pm, roast beef dinner 7pm. Dancing 8:30 to 1am, light lunch after midnight, $40. Call 519-846-0830. *** Welcome the New Year at St. Mary Family Centre (Mount Forest) 8:30pm to 1am. Live entertainment and luncheon served. Tickets $15, call 519-323-2316 or visit Parish Office. Age of Majority. *** New Year’s Eve Dance, 8pm to 1am, Alma Community Centre, semi-formal. Tickets $20/person or $30/couple, at Geddes Garage or call Shelly 519-846-0415 or Linda 519-572-7072. *** Arthur’s New Year’s Eve Community Skating Party, Arthur Arena. Skating 6:30 to 8pm followed by munchies and entertainment with New Year’s countdown at 8:45. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent. Call 519-848-5852.

Wed. Jan. 1

Grand Valley Lions 21st Annual Polar Bear Dip, 1pm, on Mill Street East. Registration starts at 12pm. All proceeds go to the local food bank, spectators bring a donation. For more information call Lion Dave at 226-790-0224.

Thurs. Jan. 2

Belwood Lions Jamboree, 7:30pm, Belwood Hall. Play, sing, dance and enjoy the entertainment. Admission $5. (Performing musicians, free). Call 519-843-7011 for more information.

Fri. Jan. 3

Community Euchre sponsored by the Optimist Club of Puslinch, 7:30pm. Puslinch Community Center. $5 per person. Lunch provided. 
50/50 draw $2. All welcome. For info. call Neil Smith at 519-837-3838. *** Jam Sessions 2-5pm. Fergus Legion, Branch 275. Call the Legion for more info. 519-843-2345. Everyone Welcome. ***

Please check to make sure that

To be a part of the Church Service Directory call 519.843.5410 or email: sales@wellingtonadvertiser.com the information is correct.

PROOF OF YOUR AD for the Dec. 13 18th && 2025th issues. issues.

Mark any errors on this copy and email or fax back to

PROOF OF YOUR AD(519) 843-7607 call (519) 843-5410 for the Dec. 18th &or25th issues. or 519-638-3066

For more events go to:

www.wellingtonadvertiser.com

Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013 PAGE THREE

Diane Gagnon: Healing through therapeutic touch

by Kris Svela

FERGUS - Healing through energy has had its supporters and detractors over the centuries it has been practiced.

There are those who dismiss healing people by simply running a hand over their bodies as akin to “voodooism,” while others faithfully believe in the merits of what has become known as “therapeutic touch (TT).”

Hospice Wellington volunteers Diane Gagnon and Lilly Tsujita are therapeutic touch practitioners and through their experience have seen the merits of the service offered to patients being treated for cancer at Groves Memorial Community Hospital’s oncology department.

The intent, according to them, is not to heal patients of the cancer they have, but to diminish the side effects associated with chemotherapy treatment. “[Therapeutic touch] is considered a complementary modality or vehicle in that it is meant to complement traditional treatments and therapies and have a positive impact on how you are feeling,” states an information brochure from Hospice Wellington.

“Practitioners use their hands as the instrument of their treatments, usually working four to six inches above your body.”

According to Hospice

Wellington, the procedure promotes relaxation, reduces feelings of anxiety, increases the effectiveness of traditional pain and symptom treatments, changes the perception of pain and certain symptoms, and facilitates the body’s natural restorative processes.

The service is extended only after the client has consented and can include cancer patients, their caregivers and family.

Gagnon has been practicing therapeutic touch for about seven years and is Reiki master, practicing another touch therapy that tends to be more hands-on than therapeutic touch. She is a retired teacher who was recognized for her volunteer work earlier this year

by Wellington County.

Tsujita is a retired occupational health nurse who has practiced Reiki since it was first introduced at Groves.

“We started the therapeutic touch program three years ago in oncology when Hospice brought it in,” Tsujita said.

As volunteers for Hospice and for the hospital, they require ongoing training on procedures in place by both organizations, including patient confidentiality.

“Both Diane and I try to promote therapeutic touch,” Tsujita added.

“We’re working with your energy for yourself,” Gagnon

Remembering - Hospice Wellington volunteer Diane Gagnon assisted Kathleen Olive and her husband Steven from Fergus in buying a card for the Hospice Tree of Remembrance, located at Dixon’s Home Hardware, in memory of Olive’s mother, Joan Dorid. The money raised helps finance Hospice programs, including the therapeutic touch program, and enables it to be offered at no charge to clients. submitted photo Cover photo - Hospice volunteer Diane Gagnon and Groves oncology nurse Georgina McCulloch. explained about the service.

The procedure starts with the practitioner meditating so they can concentrate on the energy received from the client.

With her years of experience, Gagnon can feel what treatment is needed and what part of the body she has to concentrate on. It’s essential according to her not to transfer energy between the practitioner and client.

photo by Kris Svela

“It’s working your energy to toe to direct any negative oncology nurse Georgina field and we do not send our energy out of the body.

McCulloch.

What they are tracking is energy to you,” she said. “I just “Our patients have reported know where the pain is. If I what they describe as “dis- that the therapeutic touch treatstart to feel too much that’s not ease.” It’s a negative energy ment is calming, meditative, that causes unease in the energy relaxing and it makes their healthy.”

“We help you help your- field that envelops all humans, chemotherapy treatment more proponents say. self,” Tsujita added. pleasant,” McCulloch said.

“We each have an enerHospice information states, Practitioners usually gather “Therapeutic Touch is a pro- gy field which surrounds the once a year to discuss therapy cess that is always individu- physical body, made up of he improvements and practice on alized and usually does not same energy which supports each other. exceed 20 minutes. You remain all living matter,” informa“We sit and talk about fully clothed. Treatments can tion from Hospice Wellington things, like new ideas,” Tsujita be done without physical information states. “Since man said, referring to ongoing traintouching, and can be offered is an open system (that is, he ing practitioners need to hone while sitting, lying or standing. affects and is affected by things their skills. “We do practice With your permission, touch- and conditions outside him/her to make sure we won’t deviing shoulders, ate from what arms, hands the therapeutic and feet may be touch is doing. included in the We all do it the session. Your same way.” comfort is the Tsujita sees most important traditional and aspect of the holistic medi- Therapeutic touch practitioner and Hospice treatment.” cine working in Wellington volunteer Diane Gagnon “The person tandem. who is receiv“I knew ing therapeutic treatment has self), this energy field is caused when I retired holistic medito accept it,” Gagnon said of to fluctuate in size, shape, cli- cine was where I felt comfortthe consent needed. “If a client mate and complexion. able and I knew this worked,” “When there is illness or she said of her decision to pracin oncology doesn’t want to injury or disease within the tice therapeutic touch. receive it, we don’t.”

“We consider it compli- body, there is a reflection of “It’s not invasive, you can’t mentary,” Tsujita said of the same in the energy field. Such damage anything and it does service’s place in overall treat- reflections can be identified promote healing.” and assessed by the practitioment.

Both are enjoying their vol“We do it here because ner, change can be made in unteer work and the work done we’re local,” Gagnon said of the energy flow of the field by countless volunteers associthe reason for the service at and balance can be restored. ated with Groves.

The client absorbs this offered Groves.

“The volunteers here are so Gagnon lives in Elora and energy at the appropriate rate, dedicated to the hospital and feels altered and re-establishes it’s amazing,” Tsujita said.

Tsujita lives in Fergus.

As a Hospice Wellington energy patterns in a more satisGagnon added, “The (clivolunteer, Gagnon has also factory manner. Thus, the cli- ents) bring back so much. taken part in other programs ent can be said to do his/her They’re appreciation is everyoffered by the organization and healing.” thing.”

In North America the pracdealing with bereavement and end of life issues, including tice has been around since the the “walk with a purpose” pro- early 1970s when it was chamgram that takes those affected pioned by Dolores Krieger, by death on community walks PhD, of New York University.

However, according to where they can talk about their experience with a trained coun- Gagnon, energy healing dates back to ancient cultures in selor.

She also runs a wellness China and other Asian counprogram in a room supplied by tries.

Working together - Groves Gagnon and Tsujita believe the hospital that meets weekly Memorial Hospital oncolfor coffee and discussions led it is also gaining greater accepogy nurse Georgina tance in this part of the county by those attending.

McCulloch said the work Therapeutic touch sessions and among medical professiondone by therapeutic touch are done, in most cases, with- als and the public. Both have practitioners for cancer out having to touch the recipi- been invited by churches to patients is appreciated. ents. Hands are passed over the speak on the topic.

It’s a view shared by client’s body always from head

“We’re working with your energy for yourself.”

Shared energy - Therapeutic touch practitioners Lilly Tsujita, front, and Diane Gagnon work together providing the service in the oncology department at Groves hospital and work with each other perfecting their skills. photo by Kris Svela

Alma Christmas Parade

PAGE FOUR Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013

DATE: December 22 TIME: 2:00 PM

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Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013 PAGE FIVE

Senior LIFESTYLES Eden House receives ‘exemplary standing’ GUELPH-ERAMOSA - Accreditation Canada recently announced the Eden House Care Facility here has been awarded Accreditation with Exemplary Standing.

Officials say this is the highest level achievable under the Accreditation Canada Standards - and one only a few organizations have achieved.

Organizations are evaluated based on their performance against many national standards of excellence and required organizational practices for quality and resident safety.

Eden House has received awards by Accreditation Canada since 1982. Officials consider the process a great assurance to residents, the community, and its staff that the facility exceeds quality standards.

109 years young - Grace Dyksterhuis celebrated her 109th birthday on Dec. 5. A small group of family and staff at Eden House Care Facility in Guelph-Eramosa Township recently helped her mark the occasion. Eden House residents presented Dyksterhuis with a corsage and she received certificates from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Premier Kathleen Wynne, Buckingham Palace, the governor general, MPP Ted Arnott, MP Michael Chong and Guelph-Eramosa Mayor Chris White.

New friends - Over 25 Grade 7 and 8 students from John Black Public School in Fergus participated recently in an inter-generational program with the seniors’ choir and the ukulele band, The Melody Makers, at Victoria Park Seniors Centre. The program, held on Nov. 18 and again on Dec. 16, allows students and seniors to sing together, play instruments and share stories. photos by Sarah Grandy

Happy Holidays from

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

Eden House Care Facility Nursing-Retirement Home 5016 Well. Rd. 29, Guelph 519.856.4622

Palmerston All the best to you & yours for a blessed 2014 600 Whites Road Palmerston, 519-343-2611 x 223 www.royalterracepalmerston.ca

Showing support - Heritage River Retirement Residence in Elora welcomed and offered support to the Guelph Shrine Club on Nov. 30. ABOVE: Gloria and her husband Don Dyson, A member of the Shrine Club, posed during the event. submitted photo

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PAGE SIX Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013

AND

ENTERTAINMENT Sudoku

Local dancer performs in The Nutcracker

Here’s How it Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Horoscopes ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, some difficulty awaits you, but you are strong and fully capable of handling what’s coming your way. Maintain your composure and stick it out a little longer.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, this is your week to shine and let everyone at work know just how talented and devoted you are to the team. Enjoy the fanfare while you can get it.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Distractions are lurking, Gemini, but you will still manage to get things done. Somehow you find the focus needed to muddle through all the work.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Trust someone close to you with a few of your secrets, Cancer.

Holding them in may only cause you grief in the long run. Don’t worry, your confidante will be supportive.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, an investment opportunity has piqued your interest. Until you sign over the funds, be sure to research everything thoroughly and call in some expert advice.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you have a lot on your plate, but you can handle it on your own. If things are to get done, you will get them accomplished of your own accord, even if it takes longer.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Some added confidence is all you need to get back on the right track, Libra. Things are bound to work out in your favor, especially when you put your mind to

For the fourth Week of Dec.

something.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, just when skepticism seems to be taking over, you will discover once in a while there are a few surprises with happy endings. Enjoy your good luck.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, though unusual, your behavior might seem perfectly reasonable to you. But unless you share your thoughts with others, they may wonder what is going on.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Remember that words said in the heat of the moment will not soon be forgotten, Capricorn. Don’t forget to employ some tact when discussing serious matters with loved ones.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, this week you will have to be very convincing if you want plans to go your way. Brush up on your approach and give thought to exactly what it is you want to say.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Take a few days to let your mind wander, Pisces. You will probably find being a free spirit to be a refreshing break from the norm.

by Sarah Grandy FERGUS - Tasha Bachinski, 15, has been selected to dance in Ballet Jorgen Canada’s The Nutcracker, which returns to the River Run Centre in Guelph on Dec. 22 and 23.

“I was surprised I was selected because I thought most of the roles were for younger ages and I didn’t think I fit the role, but I wasn’t surprised because I’ve done a lot of auditions and processes of being nervous and have learned to still do my best,” said Bachinski.

The young Fergus dancer tried out for The Nutcracker in September and was one of about 20 dancers selected out of about 40 competitors in the 13 to 18 age group.

“My role has very quick steps,” Bachinski said about her role as a Dragonfly.

“Typically most dance movements are in the legs and feet with minor arm work; in my role it is quick leg and arm movements combined.”

Bachinski began rehearsing for The Nutcracker the day she was chosen, and has been rehearsing once a week for about 30 minutes.

She noted that within the last several weeks, rehearsals went up to about 45 minutes each week.

“It’s taking all the movements you learned in the studio

and making an elaborate dance … with make-up, costumes and an audience,” Bachinski said.

She began dancing at the Grand River Dance Academy at the age of three and trained there until the age of seven, when she decided to attend the National Ballet School (NBS) in Toronto until the age of 10.

She then tried out for the Professional Division at Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, where she trained for three years.

“One of my favorite things about dancing is the performance.,” Bachinski said.

“I like putting on the costumes, wearing the make-up and performing in front of an audience.”

Throughout her dance career, Bachinski has danced in many performances. At the age of seven she danced in The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada; she danced in yearly performances and performed in Coppelia with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Since returning to Fergus after her three-year stay in Winnipeg, she has returned to the Grand River Dance Academy and has been taking classes and also teaches ballet and Jazz.

“I love to dance; it’s fun and it makes me happy,” said Bachinski.

“It’s inspiring and makes other people happy as well.”

Drowsey Chaperone comes to Orangeville ORANGEVILLE - Orangeville Music Theatre is set to present The Drowsy Chaperone from Jan. 11 to 25.

The musical comedy features music and lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison and book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar.

It begins when a die-hard musical theatre fan plays his favorite cast album on his turntable, and the musical literally bursts to life in his living room, telling the rambunctious tale of a brazen Broadway starlet trying to find, and keep, her true

love. Hilarity and mayhem ensue as the zany and over-thetop characters play out the plot.

Gregory Dickison is director and music director for the show, which is choreographed

by Nadine Daniel.

Performances run Jan. 11, 18 and 25 at 8pm and Jan. 12 and 19 at 2pm at the Town Hall Opera House, 87 Broadway, Orangeville.

For tickets call the box office at 519-942-3423 or visit www.orangevillemusictheatre. com. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under.

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Dance performance - Tasha Bachinski, 15, of Fergus, has been selected to dance in Ballet Jorgen Canada’s The Nutcracker, which returns to the River Run Centre Dec. 22 and 23. photo by Sarah Grandy

Guelph Chamber Choir presents Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 21 GUELPH - The Guelph Chamber Choir is presenting Handel’s Messiah with a Baroque orchestra at the River Run Centre on Dec. 21 at 8pm.

Conductor Gerald Neufeld commented, “The unabated popularity of Handel’s Messiah is a seasonal reminder of the power of music in our lives. While the text weaves the familiar story of the coming of the Messiah, the music gives expression to the sentiments that are both so very old and yet so new.”

Four Canadian soloists join the choir and a select ensemble of Baroque instrumental specialists: - Soprano Agnes Zsigovics; - Daniel Cabena; - Bud Roach; and - Daniel Lichti.

Daniel Moore, from Family and Children’s Services

of Guelph and Wellington County, will give a “podium talk” at 7pm, speaking on Handel’s connection to child welfare.

Singers of all ages and talents are invited to come out for a rousing Messiah Sing-A-Long on Dec. 22 at 3pm at St. George’s Anglican Church. All are welcome to come and join in singing beloved choruses.

Donations in lieu of tickets support the Children First Fund of Family and Children’s Services.

Single tickets are $35 or four for $120, young adults (30 and under) are $10, and $5 for youth with eyeGO. Tickets are available at the River Run Centre, by calling 519-763-3000 or online at www.riverrun.ca.

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

Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013 PAGE SEVEN

Rural Life OMAF and MRA Report

Agricultural Information Contact Centre | 1-877-424-1300 | www.ontario.ca/omafra A weekly report prepared by the staff of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF) and the Ministry of Rural Affairs (MRA). If you require further information, regarding this report, call the Elora Resource Centre at 519-846-0941. Office hours: 8:30am to 5pm.

For technical information, call the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or visit the OMAF website: www.ontario.ca/omaf and/or the MRA website: www.ontario.ca/mra.

FARMSMART AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCE - JAN. 17 AND 18, 2014 Like last year, there will be a pre-conference held the day before. This year SoySmart will be the pre-conference full-day production program will be held at Forbes Hall at RIM Park in North Waterloo on Friday, January 17th The organizers are gearing up for another great program for the FarmSmart Ag Conference on Saturday, January 18th at Rozanski Hall of the University of Guelph.

This conference would be of interest to anyone involved in agriculture in the province of Ontario as the program melds production, environment, economics and other themes across crops, livestock, business and host of general interest topics to a wide range of participants.

The program goes live at: www.farmsmartconference.com.

PROVINCE INCREASES EXEMPTION FOR EMPLOYER HEALTH TAX Ontario is helping 60,000 small businesses save money and grow by introducing legislation to increase the exemption for the Employer Health Tax starting January 1, 2014.

If passed, the Supporting Small Businesses Act would increase the exemption for private-sector employers, including small businesses, charities and not-for-profit organizations, with an annual payroll of $450,000 or less. The previous limit was $400,000. This means that more than 60,000 employers would pay less Employer Health Tax, including over 12,000 that would no longer pay the tax.

Those organizations would also save the cost of filing an Employer Health Tax return. Businesses would be able to use their savings to re-invest in their company or hire more staff.

Providing tax relief is part of the government’s plan to strengthen the economy and create a business climate that attracts investment and helps create jobs. For more information, please visit: http://bit.ly/1eV7a1N. EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR AGRICULTURE STUDENTS NOW OPEN Farm Management Canada (FMC) and the Canadian Associa-

tion of Diploma in Agriculture Programs (CADAP) have joined forces to offer an award designed to encourage students to improve their communication and leadership skills through a national video competition.

FMC and CADAP are collecting submissions from agricultural students across Canada and will award three winners with $1,000 towards furthering their education in agriculture. The award is designed to help students develop their communication skills by having the opportunity to voice their opinion on a subject related to farm management.

Students are asked to submit videos, responding to the following question: What key skills has your educational institution taught you about farm management that will be most useful in your career? Please explain why these are important?

Applications must be received no later than May 9, 2014. For more information, please visit: http://www.fmc-gac.com/excellence-award.

COMING EVENTS Jan. 7 – 8 - 21st Annual Southwest Agricultural Conference, University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. For more information, please visit: http://www.southwestagconference.ca.

Jan. 8 – 14 - 48th Annual Grey Bruce Farmer’s Week, Elmwood Community Centre, 38 Queens Street West, Elmwood, Ontario.

Refer to www.greyagservices.ca or call (519) 986-3756.

Jan. 27 – 29 - Ontario Processing Vegetable Industry Conference, London. For more information, please visit: http://www.opvg.org/conference/ Jan. 29 – 30 - EFAO Winter Workshop Series. For more infor-

mation, please visit: https://efao.ca/ Jan. 30 – Catching the Wave – Guelph Organic Conference & Expo 2104, Guelph University Centre, Feb. 2 - Guelph. For more information, please visit: http:// www.guelphorganicconf.ca/ Feb. 19 – 20 - Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention (OFVC).

For more information, please visit: http://www.ofvc.ca/.

SPECIALISTS in Farm & Rural Land Severance Applications

Trade Show Representatives

SURVEYING INC. PHONE: (519) 821.2763 FAX: (519) 821.2770 EMAIL: jeff.buisman@vanharten.com www.vanharten.com

Tech & Annual General Meeting Friday, January 17, 2014 Alma Bible Chapel

“Increasing Profits through Alternative Feeding Methods” – 3:00 pm Speakers include: Murray Brunskill, Bob Gordanier, Tim Prior and OMAFRA Reps Evening Highlights Trade Show & Social – 5:00 pm, Dinner – 5:45 pm Jim Clark, Executive Director, Ontario Corn Fed Beef Program & Ontario Cattle Feeders’ Association WCCA 2013 Ron Wooddisse Memorial Award

Tickets: $15.00 person for a complete roast beef dinner $10.00 Wellington County 4H Beef Member Come when you can, leave when you must, but please pre-register for the meal by Friday, January 10, 2014 to wellingtoncountycattlemens@gmail.com or 519-787-5204

423 woolwich st., guelph on n1h 3x3

SPORTS

Nation’s Cup winners - The Major Peewees were one of three Centre Wellington Fusion teams to claim gold in their divisions at the Nation’s Cup Tier II tournament held in Sterling Heights, Michigan from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1. From left: front, David Mabey, Colton Donaldson, Jonah White, Riley McCabe, Kurtis Goodwin, Kyle Detweiler, Jayden Bushey and Bo Columbus; back, Bryan Richardson, Oscar Castellan, Caleb McDougall, Brayden Krieger, Drew Kelly and Brett Harrison. Coaches include Jeff Columbus, Shane Mabey, Rob Krieger, Kevin Detweiler, Gary White and Bruce Richardson.

519.824.0210

whatever the season. whatever the sport.

send us your photos, story ideas or scores. it’s your sport. it’s your newspaper.

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

International champs - The Centre Wellington Fusion Minor Peewee team also won gold in its division at the Nation’s Cup Tier II tournament held in Sterling Heights, Michigan from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1. From left: front, Max Hattle, Jakson Kirk, Christian Linton and Jarrett Lavigne; back, Logan Rayner, Zac Tofflemire, Zachary Burt, Jake Ristov, Caleb Willmets, Jarrett Anderson, Zach Hatch, Jack MacDonald, Troy Hall, Trent Collins, Tristan Cousineau, Levi Humber and Caleb Cribbin; coaches Colin Hatch, Tom Ristov, Mike Kirk, Don Burt and JP Cousineau. submitted photos

WE PUT THE SPORT IN SPORTs car

BARRYCULLEN.COM

Wellington County Cattlemen’s Association

PAGE EIGHT Inside Wellington - Second Section of The Wellington Advertiser, Friday, December 20, 2013

Festive R.I.D.E. Programme Underway The Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.) Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E.) festive season programme runs November 23 through January 2, 2014.

Impaired driving remains the leading criminal cause of death in Canada.

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

County Closures and Changes to Service Administration Centre OPEN CLOSED

December 24 December 24

Museum and Archives

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

OPEN CLOSED OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN CLOSED

Help keep our roads safe. If you drink, don’t drive.

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Waste Facilities: All six County waste facilities will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Curbside Collection: Curbside collection for Wednesday, December 25 will be rescheduled to Monday, December 23.

Curbside collection for Thursday, December 26 will be rescheduled to Saturday, December 28.

Curbside collection for Wednesday, January 1 will be rescheduled to Monday, December 30.

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

Library Branches

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December 24, 31 December 25-26 December 27 December 28, 29 December 30 December 31 January 1

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Solid Waste Services Holiday Changes

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8:30 am - noon at noon through January 1

December 24 December 25-26 December 27-30 December 31 January 1

10:00 am - 2:00 pm (all branches) Regular Hours 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (all branches)

Social Services OPEN

CLOSED OPEN CLOSED OPEN

CLOSED

December 24 8:30 am to noon (Child Care open regular hours) December 25-26 December 27 8:30 am to 4:30 pm December 30 8:30 am to 4:30 pm December 31 8:30 am to noon (Child Care open regular hours) January 1

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

ALTERNATE FORMATS OF THIS PUBLICATION AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. Accessibility Clerk 519.837.2600 x 2373 or accessibility@wellington.ca

FEEDBACK - HOW ARE WE DOING? Do you have an idea for an upcoming issue?

Andrea Ravensdale, Communications Manager 519.837.2600 x 2320* or andrear@wellington.ca *ALL CALLS CAN BE MADE TOLL FREE TO 1.800.663.0750