By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE A kinder, gentler breed of investors sat up-front at Otter’s Den, Brockville, listening to 15-minute pitches from five start-ups and entrepreneurs. A Q & A session ensued, questions exclusively from the Otters. Occasionally, tough questions and critique kept the audience of 90 guests on edge. It was a … Continue reading
Author Archives: maggiem7
Brockville Aquatarium Amazes – World Class
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, the wedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end This writer was taken on a grand tour of Brockville’s, Aquatarium™, by its affable Host, Executive Director, Bill Rogerson. He was plucked from Gananoque over seven years ago, its former Asset and Infrastructure Manager, to bring Aquatarium’s 27,000 sq. ft. … Continue reading
BEST OF BOATING : Three Families and One Woman Buoy Our Waterways
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE scroll to story’s end and click icons. “I discovered boating when I was five years-old.” “I’ll never forget the first fish my son speared.” “We’ve never had a bad day on a boat.” Such are emotional quotes from people living life more fully on our waterways. … Continue reading
Childhood Soup Today’s Fountain of Youth
By Sara Nicholson, Food and Health Contributor, the wedge.LIVE As Canadian children we’ve all been there; we come in from an evening out in the cold, dark winter night, and our parents have a piping hot bowl of home-made chicken soup waiting for us. As we take that first spoon full, and the chicken broth … Continue reading
Lyme epidemic Takes Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, Alec Baldwin, Richard Gere, George W. Bush, Daryl Hall, Peter Seeger, Debbie Gibson, Ben Stiller, Christie Brinkley
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE It is estimated by Dr. Jay Nielsen, M.D., there are 20 to 30 million people in U.S. misdiagnosed or undiagnosed with Lyme Disease. The CDC revised its estimate of 30,000 to 300,000 cases over three years ago; however, the toll is likely far greater. Often, MS, ALS, Parkinson, arthritis, … Continue reading
Slalom into Spring : Calabogie, Pakenham
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE “As you climb on the chairlift in Sunshine (Banff, Alberta) a sign in the snow reads, ‘Welcome to British Columbia’,” I shared with a wide-eyed, young downhill skier while running errands today. I love to see the puzzled expression. “You cross the provincial border on the chair,” I explained. … Continue reading
Downton Abbey Angst : Local Fans Hanker For More
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE Viewers around the world waited for Season 7; but, it was not to be. Downton Abbey, the highly celebrated television series called it quits at its feverish height. In our own region fans pine–or rather, ache–to re-connect with this extraordinary production. Julian Fellowes is the visionary Creator and Writer … Continue reading
Could this be our tiniest hamlet?
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE Not much equals a drive along County Road 2. It trims the St.Lawrence River, a corridor from Cornwall to Kingston. It is ostensibly the most traveled scenic road with many picnic stops and major destination locations along the way. Gananoque, Mallory Town, Rockport, Thousands Islands, Brockville, Prescott, Morrisburg, Long Sault … Continue reading
Competing Broadcast Networks in Smiths Falls and Perth at the same time
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE On the heels of hearing CTV Morning Show is appearing in Perth, Monday, March 5th, to feature its businesses, the wedge trips on CBC camped in a pop-up location on Russell Street East, Smiths Falls. CBC is airing their radio show live, Tuesday at 5:30 am. Sprinklings of social … Continue reading
Melting Pot of Forward-Thinking Farmers Gather in Cornwall
By Sara Nicholson, Food and Health Contributor, the wedge.LIVE This past weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to attend Eco Farm Day, a two-day event organized by Canadian Organic Growers (COG). It was a day filled with speakers, presentations and trade shows on everything from soil through plants to livestock. Many guests had booked rooms … Continue reading
Prepare for tick season : How to avert Lyme Disease
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE Tick season is about to begin again, late Spring. Why is this story so important? The number of people this writer has come across–here in our own backyard–diagnosed with Lyme Disease, in just a few towns, reveals much. I have even met the widow of a man who died … Continue reading
Coutts dynasty leads in farming practices and healing foods
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE (SHARING buttons are at story’s end) “Did you get the cow?” Diana Coutts, Co-Owner, Coutts Country Flavours, asked her husband on the phone as we concluded our first meeting. I inquired about one of their cows being on the loose. She bellowed with laughter at my question. Turns out, … Continue reading
Topical Contributors Wanted : Music, Events, Food, Places, Comedy
From The Wedge Admin We are growing. There is plenty of room for contributors. You may be an unrequited talent and our platform is yours if you have a powerful, creative, fearless voice. You need to spell right. We don’t mind if you ignore some of E.B. White’s rules. Writing is an art. We won’t … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Two Rivers Food Hub Closes Distribution
by MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE A disheartening event took place in Smiths Falls this Valentine’s day. Two Rivers Food Hub gave up the its distribution arm today. Gone are the customer pages on its web site that display products for selection into a virtual shopping cart and later delivery. Two Rivers is now out … Continue reading
Last Minute Men : Annual Phenomenon
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE One of this writer’s amusing activities is to lurk at local stores, those which carry stationery on Valentine’s Day. I get a kick out of seeing men huddled at the Valentine’s section at around 5pm–at the last minute. I did this last year with a big grin on my … Continue reading
Pho The Love of The Far East : 3 Top Spots
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE Visiting the ByWard is akin to crossing the rubicon, from “urban” to “hipster” in only a few steps. It’s a village bursting with experiences especially of the food kind. You pass by the majestic Chateau Laurier and–Boom!–a world of fun opens up. In the ByWard, sounds shift every twenty … Continue reading
“One small step for people, one giant leap for peoplekind”
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE Canada now exerts its participation in its Southern neighbor’s exploration of space. Our PM corrects the first words by Neil Armstrong as he stepped off the module onto the lunar surface. Amstrong pronounced a string of words known around the world–a meme which united everyone. This 1969 historical moment … Continue reading
Miracle Mineral Found in Perth, Carleton Place, Brockville
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This writer opens this story appealing to your vanity. Yes, there is a fountain of youth here in the region. It does not require exercise, positive affirmatives, plastic surgery, or sitting in caverns in the heart of Italy. Once you learn about this youthful mineral in which I guarantee … Continue reading
Battle against tooth decay begins–without a dentist
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This day, February 6, 2018, marks the official start of my battle against tooth decay. I have a few spots of concern; but, one particular molar is in deep trouble. My dentist says, “it will need a root canal.” This was not a revenue-driven suggestion by him as he … Continue reading
Treasure hunt ends in Kemptville and Iroquois
by MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This writer looked around, inquiring from those in-the-know and searching the web for hard-to-find foods produced the way our forefathers did–only three generations ago. Finally, my unrelenting search ended in results. I stumbled upon Biemond, AKA Upper Canada Creamery, Iroquois (an East Ontario town along the St. Lawrence), and, … Continue reading
Perth has the L-Factor : Love is in the air
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE I remember strolling up Gore Street in late summer 2016, exchanging effusive words with visitors. “This is the wedding town of Ontario,” one young couple intimated. As I traveled, loaded down with my camera and tripod, I witnessed many couples holding hands, cuddling as they swayed, absorbing Downtown Perth’s, … Continue reading
7+ morning drinks to supercharge your day
By SARA Nicholson, Food and Health Contributor, the wedge.LIVE This is NOT an article about the 7 reasons why you should drink a specific drink every day. In fact, this article is about the exact opposite. Don’t drink the same thing every day. If you want to drink the same thing 2 or 3 days … Continue reading
Communities being redesigned by Google–right now.
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE An unprecedented shift to “life as we know it” is already in play. It’s not coming. It’s here. And it is being installed incrementally under our noses. The dominoes are falling one after the other. A MICROCOSM IN THE MACROCOSM Imagine your refrigerator is on the cloud (that’s internet … Continue reading
Countdown to Love : Family affair in Renfrew
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE We return to our Countdown to Love series celebrating the love that percolates in the wedge. I chose the last verb well as the family we feature today brews the finest Americano I have enjoyed in a long time. Maureen Hicks and Marie Schruder are sisters; Angela McCrea is … Continue reading
Countdown to Love : Pam and Bill, Merrickville
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE We continue today celebrating true love in the wedge in our Countdown to Love. Today, I celebrate a sweet couple that has never left my memory. They were the subjects of my first story, written July 28, 2016, after founding The Wedge. They live in the heart of idyllic, … Continue reading
Countdown to Love : Pembroke Sister Act
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE We continue our countdown to the month of love with testaments of love in our midst. Love is not the exclusive turf of romance. I witnessed two sisters who run a long-established business in Pembroke show their affection and respect for each other. I speak of Noella Stevens and Eileen … Continue reading
Countdown to Love : Julie and Peter, Perth
BY MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE The wedge is declaring all of February, “the month of love.” One day is just not enough. Sure, February 14th is the crescendo–it’s a double whammy. In “Countdown To Love,” we will feature people living in the wedge region (Pembroke to Kingston to Hawkesbury and every place within), lifting … Continue reading
Rick Rants About The Rink On The Hill And…
By MAGGIE M, Editor, The Wedge.LIVE Yup, it’s great P.R. for Ottawa. To quote Guy Laflamme, Executive Director, Ottawa 2017, our capital is no longer “beige.” The rink on Parliament Hill is a major photo op. Canadians are no longer timid. Dialogue about ideas seems to be shifting to, “Let’s do it. Why not!” Moments … Continue reading
Sara and Maggie spill it out : FIGHTING THE FLU
By Maggie M, Editor, and, Sara Nicholson, Food and Health Contributor, the wedge.LIVE It is with great pleasure that the wedge welcomes a new writer who hails from Brockville, Sara Nicholson (see bio below). We are co-writing in a format we hope you find engaging. We are working quickly because of the urgency of the … Continue reading
FLU ALERT : Boost your immune system !
by MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE There is a flu traveling across North America. Reports state, it is air-born. We are hearing that it has struck here. Here is our quick fix–a longer story, power-packed, will go live tonight. BEHAVIOR SHIFT: 1) DO NOT go out if you are coughing or sneezing–stop the spread! Order groceries … Continue reading
Mainstreet is at war with Cyberstreet : It’s not pretty
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE — NOTE: This is a new category, “Opinion.” The wedge is super positive–no deaths, no crime, no politics; but, a little edginess once-in-awhile is valued by our readers. So, here it is. This writer has seen Amazon’s packages–that unmistakable smirk in its logo–stacked high at our Canada Post locations through … Continue reading
Three Collaborate in Celebrating Van Gogh in Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE W, Editor, the wedge.LIVE NOAL Pantry, Smiths Falls Library and The Station Theatre collaborate in creating an exceptional daytime event, celebrating the life and works of Artist, Vincent Van Gogh. This is a first of its kind in the greater region. Chef Laurie Anne Brennan, Founder of NOAL Pantry, is creating a “Van … Continue reading
The Wedge’s 9 Best of 2017 – Part 4 “NINE MOST BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE”
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ Share by clicking icons at story’s end. NINE MOST BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE IN THE WEDGE This is our final “10 Best of 2017.” We held this segment back until everyone returned from extended Christmas holidays. Below you will find individuals the wedge and this writer have met personally … Continue reading
The Wedge’s 10 Best of 2017 – Part 3
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE THE WEDGE’S 10 BEST OF 2017 Continued 7- BEST EVENT : Perth’s Progressive Dinner Great conversation, laughter and great food are a perfect mix for an indelible memory. It’s not always size and sound that delivers the most pleasure. Kari Clarke, renown leader of Perth BIA, planned and led … Continue reading
The Wedge’s 10 Best 2017 – Part 2
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE you can click the buttons at story’s end THE WEDGE’s 10 BEST OF 2017 Continued 4- Favorite Photos Our first, most favorited photo by our readers is of a young couple showing the hallmarks of early-stage courting, smitten with each other. Surprisingly, they are a long-established, … Continue reading
The Wedge’s 10 Best of 2017 – Part 1
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE As Editor of the wedge I covered many stories, places and events in 2017. A few stand out as very special. A wall plaque is on its way to our recipients. 1- Most Welcoming Town : Renfrew, Ontario The welcome the wedge and this writer received in Renfrew, Ontario, … Continue reading
Amazing Ottawa 2017 : They did it!
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE They pulled it off! Can there be a grander exit to 2017 than this “Time Capsule,” received by the wedge today. I interviewed Guy Laflamme, Executive Director, Ottawa 2107 and Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa, October 2016, months before Laflamme’s “crazy-wild” ideas came to life. He shared his dreams, … Continue reading
Admired Retailer Sets Smiths Falls Ablaze
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ SHARE this story by clicking the buttons at the end. Out of the blue I opted to visit Michele Baitley, Owner, Michele’s Doorway To Splendour, Smiths Falls–a purveyor of high quality consignment fashion for women. It seemed I arrived on the heels of a crushing revelation. For those … Continue reading
Local Shops Overtake Amazon Last Week of Christmas
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE story, click buttons at story’s end Our readers are forewarned, local shopping is a cause we support. Community stability is increasingly challenged by those who concentrate power thousands of miles away inside a circuit box with superficial intelligence. Amazon has been the darling of this process … Continue reading
The Gift of Health: The Great Grass Revelation
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE this story, social buttons like FB are at the end. No, this story is not about medicinal marijuana; but, I am glad you are here. This writer cannot bear to hear of one more acquaintance suffering from chronic or “deadly” diseases. Startlingly, most are young. I … Continue reading
Fantastic Friday : Festival of Lights in Perth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE ❤️ To Share This Story Scroll to the End and Click Your Buttons This writer attended a fantastic Friday evening in Perth–one filled with immersive sights and sounds beyond my expectations. This event, The Festival of Lights, ushered in the Christmas holidays with a “bang”–literally. On arrival, I struggled with … Continue reading
Shop Local Revolution : Beating Big Box
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ Share buttons like Facebook at story’s end ! Independent, local retailers have united and gone to battle today–and will continue this week in the wedge (East Ontario). Their Black Friday deals are impressive, rivaling big box by price and quality–and fun. They are well armed with service, stock, … Continue reading
End of piggy banks, tooth fairies, gumball machines?
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE I read moments ago how Toronto and Ottawa are leading the charge toward a cashless society. As these technocrats careen toward launching these apps, one wonders if they have considered the carnage. I have no objection to technology; but, I am vehemently against eliminating choices. The elimination of cash … Continue reading
Food Hub potentiates vibrant health in the region : Two Rivers
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE I just signed up as a customer at the Two Rivers Food Hub . Until today, it was just getting too hard to find foods that have necessary nutrients and to maintain what health I have left. I seek foods that are “unfooled around with”–foods that are not genetically altered … Continue reading
BLACK FRIDAY Downtown Arnprior : The Big Six
BY MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE ❤️ Share buttons like Facebook at story’s end ! Towns and small city retailers in the wedge are responding aggressively to shoppers’ demands for deals this Christmas season. Shopping local has acquired “cachet” over the last few years, thanks to the tireless efforts of town associations and a spirit … Continue reading
Politicians’ Worst Nightmare, Mary Walsh, Makes Splash in Arnprior
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE “It was a combination of persuasion and magic,”states acclaimed, Public Librarian of 2017, Karen DeLuca, in signing Mary Walsh to appear at the Arnprior Library. DeLuca received this highest award from the Ontario Library Association. Carolyn Swayze, also employed in the same library, received the Youth Librarian of 2016 … Continue reading
Our Surprising Local Megastars – Case for a Walk-of-Fame?
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE We had a cursory look into the wedge (Pembroke to Hawkesbury to Kingston and all cities, towns, places within) and found the riches of fame. Some of the world’s most renown were born here and many remain–and return. This is a glimpse–we barely scrape the topic here. We’ve not … Continue reading
Pembroke & Cobden : 7-Visits Marathon
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE FYI: Sharing Buttons incl. Facebook at end of story This writer’s trek through the Ottawa Valley continues with the wedge‘s farthest destination in its northwest boundary–a second trip into the city of Pembroke and its close friend, the village of Cobden. Now, we feature some of its leading personalities … Continue reading
Just in : Rick Mercer hits the Rideau Canal in Smiths Falls, Ottawa
Love the Mercer. This video went live days ago. Parks Canada host the Host. Have a good laugh and enjoy the ride right up to Parliament. How long is the canal? How many locks? Who dug it up? Malaria? Enjoy! Stay-tuned for our big story on Pembroke! Continue reading
Smiths Falls On Economic Fast-Track
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE (video below) The Town’s engagement in economic development is at full-throttle in Smiths Falls. The Town has just re-launched its brand and website. Its council and executives are putting revitalization on a fast-track, accelerating business growth. Local magnates are investing in rebuilding. The Hotel Rideau is returning to its former … Continue reading
Amazing Sculptures Hidden From Public Make Rare Appearance
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE You will be tempted to touch the life-size creatures carved by Ron Hanniman. This writer cannot grasp how anyone could carve the hairs of feathers, layer upon layer, out of wood. It seems to defy the laws of physics. This is perhaps why he toiled over each piece for … Continue reading
Two Standing Ovations in Morton
By Maggie M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE It’s rare to witness the prowess of great, internationally renown talent in a tiny hamlet like Morton; but, thanks to the ingenuity of the team behind The Festival of Small Halls, it happened last September 17th. It was perhaps the last sweltering Sunday of the summer. Everyone stayed still … Continue reading
Brockville’s Underworld Revealed
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE I was struck with a revelation about Brockville mid-summer. Sure, it’s a beautiful marine city as I have previously written and photographed; but, there is a lot going on beyond the sight line, below waters and below the ground. I attended Centeen Park, Brockville’s renown dive site, to gain … Continue reading
The Wedge Recruiting Stringers !
UPDATED November 23rd, 2017 We’re looking for Stringers to cover areas with their pens and cameras across the wedge. Pembroke on the Northwest, Kingston on Southwest and Hawkesbury on the East East end and every hamlet, village, town and city in between. You only have to cover a wedge of the wedge e.g. Ottawa Valley, … Continue reading
Time Travel and Facial Hair in Morrisburg
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE The joy of exploration is amplified when you trudge through dirt roads muddied by relentless rain and horse manure in your finest shoes. This writer is a compulsive explorer; so, my shoes never had a chance. Planning ahead is not my bag. I would entertain spielunking in my pearls … Continue reading
Pembroke : Soul-soothing and Spectacular
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE We finally traveled to the far northwest corner of the wedge. This is a milestone in our 1.1 years since launch. This node is a city named Pembroke–the largest in the Ottawa Valley. It sits on the Ottawa River and has a few rivers running through it, the Muskrat … Continue reading
Visitors Smitten at Smiths Falls Trainfest
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This writer was an accidental tourist at Trainfest, August 26th. I immediately realized this event offered far more than met my eyes from the road. I stood on the platform as a black 1912 steam locomotive barreled toward me, whistling, coming to a full stop. The engine weighs 77 … Continue reading
Big Names Play Nooks and Crannies in East Ontario
By Maggie M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE “It started in PEI first, then opened in Australia. Ottawa Bluesfest brought it to East Ontario,” recounts Kelly Symes, General Manager, The Festival of Small Halls. Every once-in-a-while an idea strikes this writer as exceedingly special. This idea stems from the creative mind of the man who founded renown, Ottawa … Continue reading
The Duck That Divides and Multiplies
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This writer sat down with Co-Owners, Mama Duck, at The Crow’s Nest Bistro on Block House Island during Brockville’s, Rails and Trails Festival, Craig Samborski from Duluth, Minnesota, and Ryan Whaley, Sandusky, Ohio. It was a gorgeous late afternoon, the wind was swirling pleasantly and the St. Lawrence feet … Continue reading
Total Eclipse over U.S. from Here : Schedule
A partial eclipse of the U.S. total eclipse can be viewed from here in our region starting at 1:17pm and ending at 3:48. Our maximum eclipse will be at 2:35 pm; at this time Tennessee will be in full eclipse and darkness for a few minutes. Do not look up at the partial eclipse at … Continue reading
Prescott’s Epic Summer Closing Acts
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE “How fast can you recite Hamlet’s soliloquy?,” I asked Ian Farthing, Actor. He is one of a cast of three joining Susie Burnett and Helen Juvonen in the final St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival stage performance of 2017, “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged).” Do not miss the humour … Continue reading
Drop-dead Gorgeous Gananoque
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE This writer is running out of English superlatives to depict the precious gems that are the villages, towns and cities in the wedge. Gananoque (“Gana-knock-way”) is vivid, sculpted, bucolic, enchanting… If ‘Gan’ were a woman, everyone would declare she is, “drop-dead gorgeous.” Her expansive gateway heralds beauty beyond our … Continue reading
Somewhere special in the middle of nowhere
By MAGGIE M, Editor, the wedge.LIVE I don’t know how many times I’ve driven on Hwy. 29; but, it tends to be in the evening, when sight is limited. Today, Decker’s, was highly visible in British red, white and blue. Ken Loughren, a young man and father, owns and runs the food (truck) double-decker British … Continue reading
Brockville : Beauty and a Bit of Brouhaha
By MAGGIE M, Editor, The Wedge.LIVE When I visited Brockville, a mother and her two young sons, sat quietly taking in the sound of roaring waves, the grand view, their feet inches from the St. Lawrence River. The two boys became very animated as an enormous cargo ship entered into our view. “Woooaaa!,” they exclaimed. … Continue reading
Return to Renfrew : 7-Visits Marathon
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE I visited the Town of Renfrew a second time, from a different angle. This day began dry and overcast with my first visit to their famed dairy, and ended in my being soaked to my underthings in a den of musicians. It didn’t just rain cats and dogs at 4:45 … Continue reading
The Wedge celebrates its first birthday!
We registered our domain “TheWedge.LIVE” on July 26, 2016 ! Happy Birthday to us! Happy Birthday to us! Happy Birthday dear Wedgees! Happy Birthday to us. For we have jolly good follows. For we have jolly good follows. For we have jolly good folloooooows! Which nobody can deny! May The Wedge be with you, East … Continue reading
Roaring Fun in Renfrew : A Town to Love
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.live I stepped onto terra firma in Renfrew, Ontario, a beautiful town in the Upper Ottawa Valley, for the first time in my life last week. The first man I met was tall, very tall, I’m guessing 9 feet, and wooden. His given name is, Big Joe Mufferaw, a French Canadian … Continue reading
Glorious Day in Arnprior : 7-Visits Marathon
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE This writer went on another tourist marathon last week, this time in the Town of Arnprior, Ontario. First, I explored its natural hot spots; then, I discovered some of its excellent businesses, through a downpour which did not cease. It’s only rain, not fire and brimstone; so, I visited each, … Continue reading
BIG teeny idea will energize towns : Smiths Falls, Gananoque, Manotick, Cornwall, Arnprior ?
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE An idea is floating around water coolers and sidewalks’ edges. It’s not new; but, it is unexpressed. What’s more, it engages everyone, locals and visitors. It’s a big idea; but, by virtue of its scale, it is teeny-tiny. A lovely friend, Judy Gorman Abromeit, brought this project to this writer’s … Continue reading
Mystery Arnprior : far more than imagined
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE Last week, this writer drove into a town that had been in my thoughts for some time; but, until then, my feet had not touched its soil. Arnprior was astonishing and an exhilirating discovery. It is unquestionably a ‘must visit’ travel destination. There is a bit of a nerd in … Continue reading
MAGGIE M Visits Four Fashion Divas in Perth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE; HOST, “WHERE IN the wedge IS MAGGIE M?” Perth is so beautiful it is hardly a challenge to capture an equally beautiful picture. Its water tributaries remind one of European canals, and its heritage is in the texture of almost all surfaces. So we pressed in to its interiors. In … Continue reading
“Food is Medicine. Choose Yours with Care,” Dr. Bernicky
by Dr. Natalie Bernicky, Health Columnist, thewedge.LIVE Food is something we can all relate to. It is necessary for life and can be as indulgent or simple as you choose to make it. With our relatively short gardening season upon us, and the opportunity to eat local produce and support local producers it seems a … Continue reading
A day circling Westport : 7- Visits Marathon
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE Visiting Westport always leaves this writer smiling inwardly. Its locals are unpretentious, kind, relaxed and bubbling with creativity. I continue to say, “Westport is one spirit with different faces.” On this beautiful day, the first after so much rain, I began my journey on Westport’s edge and circled around town … Continue reading
Smiths Falls’ NIKNAKs Paddle Shack launched !
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE An exciting, new feature was added to beautiful Murphy Park & Centennial Park, Smiths Falls, this weekend. Nicola Thomson, the town’s former DBA Coordinator, got the idea early in 2017. The 29-year-old outdoor enthusiast recently left her desk job to launch her first business with husband, Chris, on water’s edge. … Continue reading
Weeeeee! Champagne at three!
BY MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE We’ve been upgrading for the last two weeks! I personally commandeered the terrifying turf; but, I am proud to announce I am still in one piece and smiling. TheWedge.LIVE was re-propagated worldwide, we fixed our SMTP sockets, we got rid of WP ads, we removed that pesky subscriber pop-up, we … Continue reading
Chocolate trinity brings happiness to Perth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE Friday evening, June 2nd, was a lovely temperate evening for the opening of Belgian Chocolate purveyor, Perth Chocolate Works, in Perth. I arrived in the last hour to capture the excitement which showed no sign of abating. The guests were positively ebullient. This is the power of a chocolaterie, especially … Continue reading
“ACTION!” Westport scouted as ideal film site
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE Rain has been testing the mettle of men and their many projects from lawnmowing to filmmaking. It is after all only water, not fire and brimstone. Umbrellas and rubber boots are making good business these days. It rained all morning on May 30th; so, I thought plans to cover a … Continue reading
Street Beauty : it’s a thing and it’s not going away
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE A village, town or city that gives its residents a sense of place is in good stead. It will stave off migration of talent and stimulate growth. This sense of belonging to something special is not achieved by spaghetti nights at the local hall. It requires far more. Where we … Continue reading
Historic shift hits Nepean, Kanata North, Kingston and Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE A global shift has now arrived here in the wedge, East Ontario, and it’s all good. Global data confirming this shift has been rolling in for several years. It is now evident, the world is leaving the trading of their labour for diminishing wages and benefits at such velocity that … Continue reading
“You have a second brain,” Dr. Bernicky
By Dr. Natalie Bernicky, Health Columnist, http://thewedge.LIVE Within the past few years we have seen the grocery market explode with products adding beneficial bacteria, commonly known as probiotics to our food. Yogurt, cereal, kefir, kombucha drinks, and baby food are being marketed at an increased cost, promising increased health benefits compared to their probiotic-free alternatives. … Continue reading
Downton Abbey percolating in Perth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE “I watch Downton Abbey,” this writer’s brother unreservedly admits. This is no delicate man; he is married, owns much property and is a busy, Senior Engineer in aerospace. It seems, the audience is far wider than I was aware. The British television series has captured the hearts of millions, not … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Lures World to Rideau Canal with Key Partner
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE There are a few Lockmasters’ Houses in Smiths Falls; however, one has been unoccupied for years–until now. This historic building visible from the bridge connecting Beckwith with Brockville Street, Smiths Falls, will soon house the offices of European corporation, le Boat. In fact, it is to be its North American … Continue reading
Westport : a shrinking island, a wonderland and a surprise
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE On yet another overcast, damp day, I visited the uber-sweet village of Westport. Everywhere I looked, a photo beckoned. The harbour on the North side, Upper Rideau Lake, is always beautiful; but, its island seems to be nearly swallowed up by rising water levels. It seems the island is only … Continue reading
Restaurant FULL REVIEW : Bistro 54, Perth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE The kitchen at Bistro 54 is perhaps the most quiet I have ever witnessed. A team of three, Restauranteur, Dave Andoff, Mike Wall and Yannick Lang, have worked together so long, they create dishes together exchanging few words between them. Every dish on the menu is complex, comprising numerous ingredients; … Continue reading
Tiniest Beach in North America
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE The tiniest beach in North America is in our neck of the woods, in the Village of Portland. Last year, I held a conversation with a traveler across the beach without raising my voice. You could cross it in three or four leaps. This miniature treasure with a grand view … Continue reading
New! Cafe Whim Caters to Sudden Epicure Impulses
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE I was the first to arrive at a “top-secret”, invitation-only, pre-opening celebration of Smiths Falls’ newest, “Cafe Whim,” on trendy Russell Street. As I settled in, Amber Hall, Co-Founder, Equator Coffee, walked in delivering coffee in person to Cafe Whim owner, Brian Paquette. I trust she drove all the way … Continue reading
Resurrection of the Rideau Moving Quickly
Hotel Rideau, the former jewel and focal point of Beckwith Street, Smiths Falls, is coming to life again. There was a previous thwarted attempt to restore her; however, that effort failed. Now, under the ownership and watchful eyes of the Cinnamon brothers, Andrew and Tim, also Founders of Parkview Homes, the Rideau is buzzing with … Continue reading
MAGGIE M Dog Grooming Fail : First comedy
by MAGGIE M, Comedian? Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE Well, here we are. I warned you all, I was willing to make an utter fool of myself. It is my pleasure if it makes you laugh. This is my first ever comedic effort; however, another skit is coming on its heels. Hint : food is involved. I have … Continue reading
INSIDER VIDEO : East Meets West, Perth
Everyone raves about Chef Ram in these parts. He is the consummate friend to all and a great business leader. Mogandas owns East Meets West, a restaurant which serves a fusion of Eastern and Western fare, in beautiful Perth. He also co-owns and operates, Chuckles Jack, in booming Smiths Falls. As many business owners in … Continue reading
Secret Solaces : Escapes minutes from the noise
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE At times everyone feels the tug of tranquility, an escape from mobile ringtones, tedious routines and gnawing responsibility. We forget to breathe deeply, to commune with the earth from whence we came. Our region is covered in secret places that heal, places of solace. This writer frequents a few spots … Continue reading
Restaurant MINI REVIEW : The Stone Cellar
BY MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE This restaurant review at The Stone Cellar, Perth, is focused on Appetizers. Frankly, I could make a meal of continuous appetizers. The selection below is simply, mastery. The first appetizer, I witnessed in-the-making. (SEE LIVE VIDEO BELOW). A great deal of thought and effort went into preparing two, large and … Continue reading
Biblical portions and Moses at Perth Dinner Party
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE This writer sat with six friends at Michael’s Table last Saturday night. I was the stranger in their midst; so, I brought a new perspective. Reportedly, Princess Di sat to my left; this disclosure came from Charlton Heston’s doppelganger on my right. The couple, Bev and Dale, had long ago … Continue reading
Loving Memories : Stanley Cup Moments LIVE
Ottawa 2017 are producing endless events throughout the year. They are exceptional in their “esteem value” by Canadians. We will be featuring them in advance from here on. They recently celebrated the 125th Anniversary of the Stanley Cup in a Tribute across several venues. It was one of Ottawa 2017 Signature Events, lasting 3 … Continue reading
Ottawa declared, “No. 1 place to visit in the world,” New York Times
Businesses in the wedge are you ready for tourism this 2017? Here is one of the chief reasons why tourists are flocking to the region. Watch MAGGIE M’s interview of Guy Laflamme and how he is changing Ottawa, for ever. Be ready. Paint your awnings, shine your windows, and practice, “Hello” and “Thank you,” in … Continue reading
After The Green Mile Beer Run
By MAGGIE M, Editor, thewedge.LIVE T’was merry mayhem on the evenin’ of St. Patrick’s Day. The Green Mile Beer Run (or walk, crawl) was over. The Winners were declared. Brett McKimm, a tall lanky 29 year-old from Carleton Place, ran 400 metres, 8 times, with two 4 Degrees beers in him–in 7:57 minutes!! Then John … Continue reading
Restaurant REVIEW : “NOAL” Natural Organic Artisan Local
By MAGGIE M , Editor http://thewedge.LIVE Laurie Anne Brennan founded the NOAL Pantry and Local Eatery, a name that stands for, Natural Organic Artisan Local, in August 2016. She hails from a large, close-knit family in Lombardy. She sharpened her culinary skills in Toronto to bring them back to Smiths Falls and build her dream … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Growth is Set : Tweed on fast-track
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE You can’t walk into the Tweed ‘campus’, Smiths Falls, unannounced. There are no public tours and for good reason. This writer climbed the front steps and pressed a buzzer. That’s what happens when you shift a building from chocolate to cannabis. Let this be your public tour. I entered the … Continue reading
First Restaurant REVIEW : Bistro 54
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE My experience at Bistro 54, Perth, occurred before opening hours; so, my camera, lights and questions did not interfere with the smooth machine that is Bistro 54. The top cog is Chef Dave Andoff. (He does not refer to himself as ‘Chef’; but, a Chef he is.) At midday, the … Continue reading
ENDORPHIN HIGH : Our comedic videos begin !
We are jacking up our promise to be positive at thewedge.LIVE ! Now we are getting positively silly. We want you to giggle, cackle and howl with laughter. Let’s get endorphins coarsing through your body! (No, it’s not an aquatic mammal, it’s a happy brain hormone.) I, MAGGIE M, will be holding the mic and … Continue reading
The wedge “WHERE TO EAT” just doubled!
We’ve upgraded our WHERE TO EAT page today. We doubled our listings. We will double our doubling this week–including links to all restaurants and cafe websites. We vet all listings from experience, reviews and oversight; so, you can feel confident you will likely have a good experience. Happy eating! CLICK HERE TO VIEW or press … Continue reading
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