By Phil Anders for theWedge.LIVE The progressive corporation that dominates in alcohol beverages, Constellation Brands, is suffering from irrational behavior. It’s bestselling Corona beer is a popular, much loved brand, especially by yours truly. 38% of Americans surveyed (by CNN) “would not under any circumstances,” buy the beer because of the corona virus. I wonder … Continue reading
Category Archives: Smiths Falls
Bruce Linton 2.0
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Publisher, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE “Hey Maggie! your lights are still on,” Bruce Linton noticed as I unloaded my equipment from my ol’ clunker to capture his latest building project. It’s pure Linton. He notices small things. He spoke of small details many times as I visited Canopy for media events, the light … Continue reading
Our Sweetest Couple : Thankful and Giving in Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Publisher, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE We huddled near the Thanksgiving end-aisle, our voices down to a low pitch, Wanita Andress, Dan Andress, and this writer. We dug into our collective treasury of heartfelt expressions for the days coming. It was not easy in a sea of cheezy options. How can you transmit profound … Continue reading
First Bus Stop On First School Day In Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE It’s that romantic time of the year again–that time when children leave the nest each day to progress in life. It’s back-to-school time. For many parents, parting is sweet sorrow. Sniff. Sniff. The moment is well-captured by Wanita and Dan Andress now grandparents and empty-nesters. They stocked the yellow … Continue reading
Smarmy Tomato And A Few Fruits On The Cutting Board
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE “It looks like my own hands!,” blurted Wanita Andress. It’s indeed a “slight of hands,” the ones cutting strawberries in the image above. More accurately, they appear attached to the gaseous, smarmy tomato on the couple’s left. Either way, this is a classic photo-fail. Hysterically, the Andress’ seem to … Continue reading
Linton Shock Felt Around The World and especially, Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE M, Publisher, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE As I began my daily ritual, reading the printed word on the front porch at 7am, fog had settled in. An odd morning for July. It was a sign. It was a metaphor for the future of Canopy Growth. The news of the termination of its great leader, Bruce … Continue reading
Smiths Falls To Bloom with Surprise Stately Build
By MAGGIE M, Publisher, Wedgee-in Chief, theWedge.LIVE 💚 TO SHARE or LIKE click icons at story’s end Bruce Linton’s face lit-up with a boyish smile when I asked him about his designs on the old water plant in Smiths Falls. “That’s a special project,” he said with aplomb, guarding his secret. That was almost a … Continue reading
Come Together, Right Now, Over Meat
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE “You’re gonna sing with Joe,” I directed. “No way!,” the Andress couple answered in chorus. “Don’t worry there’s no sound in a photo,” I replied without eye-rolling. In no time flat they joined Joe Murphy, Manager of SAP, full-bore. They clearly enjoyed their karaoke moment, long after the camera … Continue reading
O! Momma, We Love You
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE “Don’t drop it or you’ll have to buy it!,” I howled at Wanita Andress positioned to catch a pink geranium planter airborne from the hands of husband Dan. It was their idea–not mine. She caught it. Out of thin air, Wanita called this activity, “Catch a Gift.” It might … Continue reading
Two Bunnies, a Basket of Chicks and a Pig of Doubtful Character
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE The Andress team at YIG Smiths Falls crouched like bunnies among blooming hydrangeas for the wedge. We opted to leave the floppy ears out lest they add unintended meaning. So the romance endures. Dan offered his bunny-ette, Wanita, a basket spilling over with artificial grass, furry chicks that wind … Continue reading
The End of Driving in Ontario : What’s Behind Road Planning
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE The years 2019 up to 2030 will be remembered less as “disruptive”–the mot-du-jour among silicon seers–than as destructive. We are on the eve of an accelerated, deliberate collapse of the automotive and oil industries–and almost countless ancillary manufacturing and auto services that feed off of these industries. “By 2030 … Continue reading
Andress Hits Italian and Irish High Notes
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. “It’s Dino,” Steve Akeson identified the Italian crooner on his little radio. It added to the mood for this “Cheese Wheel Pasta” event. “The highlight of my career,” he adds. Akeson has been the tasting event “Maestro” for some time at … Continue reading
2,828 Signatures Delivered to Council in Smiths Falls
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE It’s fascinating to watch a population rise en masse against their elected leaders this close to home. It’s happening in many corners of the world. In Smiths Falls, it is uncommon. Not anymore. I got into the Council meeting by the skin of my teeth last night, in time … Continue reading
“The War Of The Roads” rages in Smiths Falls while revelations emerge.
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE Late Monday afternoons in downtown Smiths Falls are no longer peaceful. Locals, citizens and business owners, flank both sides of Beckwith Street with placards, bullhorns and shouts mere feet from municipal buildings at the onset of council meetings. Cars honk their horns almost without cease passing through in a … Continue reading
First Snoop, Now Martha : It’s A Canopy Thing
by MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE The working partnership between Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart dating back a few years was to put it mildly, counter-intuitive. It came as no surprise that one of Canopy Growth’s most renown shareholders would become the bridge in a deal with Martha. The style impresario brings her excellence to … Continue reading
Canopy Zigzags Toward Big Growth
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE It was moments before midnight on Valentine’s Day when the widely awaited earnings missive from Canopy Growth arrived in our mailboxes–all sixteen pages. I read the good news. Top line revenues were impressive with the lion’s share coming from domestic recreational buyers. Canopy’s third quarter sales exceeded expectations–by 282%. … Continue reading
Will you be mine, Dan?
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE “I want to give him chocolates,” Wanita Andress stated as she pushed a heart-shaped box of Lindt chocolates into her husband’s chest. She reversed all tradition (man gives chocolates to woman) and my plan to coax Dan to give her the sweet box for our photo capture. Her suggestion … Continue reading
25 Ontario Cannabis Retailers by Lottery Announced
By Philip Anders, Contributor, theWedge.LIVE A New Voice for East Ontario The winners of the Ontario Cannabis Lottery were announced in the last 24 hours. All were chosen by a random process verified by KPMG. Over 17,000 applications were submitted. Among the winners we see no identifiable Ontario big names; however, there are a few … Continue reading
Water Tower Angst : Can We Save Ours From Extinction?
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💙 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end “At twilight they all almost look like they landed from Mars, aliens comin’ down,” renown astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson quips, “Sharing the broadcast of War of the Worlds, there were people thinking it was real. People were shooting at water towers.” … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Christmas Miracle Confirmed
By MAGGIE M, Editor, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE ❤️ SHARE THIS MIRACLE click icons at story’s end or copy the URL above and paste. It was December 12, 2016, when the wedge wrote this story (re-posted below.) The story was the most viral on-line ever experienced by the Smiths Falls. The townspeople where inspired. I watched the … Continue reading
Maggie’s Picks: Constellation Necklaces, Little Black Dress, Space Age Pipe
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 🎄 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end The wedge launches “Maggie’s Picks” today–just in time for Christmas 2018. I visited three shops in Merrickville and Smiths Falls and found some catnip. Meow Meow! Do you like our mascot? Her name is Mya (after Maggie’s cat.) WHERE AM I … Continue reading
Wanita and Dan Andress in Christmas “Cookie Operation or Die”
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💚 TO SHARE click icons at at story’s end, TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT go yo upper-right of story It was Friday afternoon at Andress’ Your Independent Grocer. Always a fun place to be. The jokes and stories poured out of customers around the Tasting Hut. … Continue reading
Maggie M Up Close with Bruce Linton
By Maggie M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💚 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT click upper-right of story. One man is on an amazing journey that brings him to the doorstep of most nations. He is Bruce Linton, Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder of Canopy Growth and Tweed … Continue reading
More Bragging Rights For Smiths Falls : le boat First Year Report
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💙 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT go to upper-right of story There was a calm and congenial atmosphere in Smiths Falls’ sparkling Welcome Centre last night. The town has been reveling in its good fortune of late. This evening … Continue reading
It’s Holiday Food Time : “Bang Bang Shrimp” at the Tasting Hut
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 🎄TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper right column. “What are you serving today Steve?,” almost all visitors asked. I was clearly in the presence of a local celebrity. There was no blue-haired lady serving at this tasting event. Steve Akeson is Andress’ Your … Continue reading
Canopy grows. And Bruce Linton Moments : Webisode 2
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 🌱 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper right column. TO COMMENT go to upper right of story Bruce Linton, Chairman of Canopy Growth and Tweed, continues to be shared by the wedge in a time-release format. Every moment with the man is data-rich … Continue reading
Visionary Retailers in Smiths Falls and Perth Who Will Survive
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 👗 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT go to upper-right text link I am thrilled by the success of this 31 year-old retail store in Smiths Falls, Marianne Style! I asked owner, John Wakim today, “Can you handle any more … Continue reading
Two Downsize For Growth : Dawn Quinn and Lindsey McFadden
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 🧡 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT click text upper-right of story I know my headline sounds like a “jumbo shrimp” oxymoron. Humor this writer. Two established women are unwittingly making the same moves. Uncannily, they are neighbors at Davidson … Continue reading
KACHING! First Main Street Sales Receipt for Cannabis in Canada
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE ☀️ TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT go to upper-right of story. The Tweed shop swung its doors open at one minute past midnight, October 17th, 2018–in St. John’s, Newfoundland. This moment ushered in the first main street sale of … Continue reading
Getting to know Bruce Linton
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💚 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper-right column. TO COMMENT go to upper right of story. Bruce Linton is on fire. Just over a year ago he was “panhandling investors” (his words.) Today, Canopy Growth’s valuation continues to climb. Last time I heard, … Continue reading
Snoop Surprises World in 2018
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor ❤️ TO SHARE just click the icons at story’s end. SUBSCRIBE at top right column. COMMENT at top right of story. I can now safely say, “Snoop Dogg is my friend.” I wrongly opined to dignitaries about his works–his excessive mysogeny and brushes with the law–without any knowledge of his … Continue reading
Bold and Exciting : Doors Open Smiths Falls
By theWedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to top right column. TO COMMENT click top right of story. Most Ontarians are familiar with Doors Open Ontario events across our province. It’s that day of the year when venues’ doors are flung open in full regalia. You could say they, … Continue reading
Bruce Almighty
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💚 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper right column. TO COMMENT click text at upper right of story. TO TRANSLATE in your language go to upper right column. “It’s at $9 billion,” Bruce Linton, Chairman and CEO, Canopy Growth Corporation, replied to my … Continue reading
These 25 Photos Lured Our Readers to Lust For More
By theWedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. To comment click text at story’s upper right. TO SUBSCRIBE go to upper right column–it’s free and confidential. We continue to celebrate our two years completed and the start of our third with this “photorial,” images that elicited oohs and aahs from our readers. Maggie’s … Continue reading
2016 Smiths Falls Boom Prophecy Comes True
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE click icons at story’s end. Comment on upper right. Subscribe at upper right column. It was December 2016 when we wrote a story on Smiths Falls and it went viral–by all analytics conventions. The story was a ray of hope much needed in Smiths Falls. The … Continue reading
Beauty Spotted Cruising The Rideau
By theWedge.LIVE 💙 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end The Kawartha Voyageur is charming her way up and down the Rideau, from Kingston to Ottawa and back. She is a beauty at 120 feet of steel. She is also an engineering feat able to collapse her top to fit under low bridges. (I guffawed … Continue reading
Best Waterfront Experiences : Editor’s Picks for Summer’s End
By theWedge.LIVE 💙 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end This review presented this writer with tough choices. There are so many wonderful waterfronts in East Ontario–no two are identical. All present unique experiences. The wedge Editor, Maggie M, picked three locations based on three factors : size, variety of activities and water access. The … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Hits Another Milestone With Welcome Venue
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, theWedge.LIVE 💙 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end Smiths Falls is open for business as never before. At 5:00pm yesterday, Mayor Shawn Pankow cut ribbon, opening the town’s doors to a brand new, expanded and bright Visitor Centre. This was not a moment too soon for the booming town. … Continue reading
Talk Show Launches : “PATIO TALKS and pineapples” Episode 1 : Mayor Shawn Pankow on Boom-Town
By theWedge.LIVE ❤️ TO SHARE click on icon’s at story’s end Today we launched our live summer talk show, “PATIO TALKS and pineapples.” The idea is to be authentic, off-the-cuff, and our locations, favorite patios where life bristles–and some occasional noise and wind gusts for the ride. We’ll feature diverse people–it’s not political. We don’t … Continue reading
Big Sister Passes Torch To New Generation
By theWedge.LIVE “A New Voice For East Ontario” Jennifer Miller, Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County, headed the agency for over a decade. She joined the organization in 2007. On this 20th June 2018, her last day, she passes the torch to a new leader yet to be announced. The Lanark agency … Continue reading
Smiths Falls : Sights For Sore Eyes
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, thewedge.LIVE There is nothing that equals a bright blue sky with puffy white clouds to frame an idyllic town. They are rare these days. The wedge could not miss this opportunity to capture downtown Smiths Falls on this glorious day, priming its biggest public event the next day. Did you … Continue reading
Thunderous ! VIPs join Smiths Falls in le boat celebration
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, thewedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE click buttons at story’s end It was December 2016 when we first wrote about the imminent arrival of le boat. Leases were not yet signed; but, all was on-track. On June 13, 2018, le boat gathered VIPs from the region to celebrate a partnership with business … Continue reading
MAN OF THE YEAR : Bruce Linton
BY MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, thewedge.LIVE Our office is central to the region we cover from Pembroke to Cornwall to Kingston. We are located in Smiths Falls; so, we know a thing or two about the town. And a rising figure. Smiths Falls has been transforming at quite a pace. Overnight, it has become the … Continue reading
UNWITTING SWEET REVENGE FOR Smiths Falls : Hershey TARIFF
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE The tariffs imposed on U.S. goods announced by our PM yesterday may be a kiss of death to Hershey sales in Canada. In my opinion, it was never delicious chocolate or the healthiest. Canadians will not bite at an additional 10%. This news is bittersweet. Among the tariff … Continue reading
THE SOUL OF SMITHS FALLS: FORTITUDE
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end Smiths Falls is an anomaly and a miracle-in-the-making. It may be the fastest growing town in Ontario–not unlike Milton was a few years back. History proves when towns across North America experience the loss of their big business base, they … Continue reading
Rooftop Beekeeping Trending in Smiths Falls and Kanata
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end Something remarkable is evolving quietly in our region thanks to “out-of-the-hive” thinkers. Urban farming is not new. Initiatives have been showing up in the oddest places in urban centres, Toronto, Paris, London and New York. A recent development, mostly in … Continue reading
Disease VS. CBD Oil : Tweed Has A Higher Calling
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-in-Chief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE 🖤 TO SHARE click icons at story’s end As the chatter grows on recreational marijuana, exclamations of joy are erupting all over the planet with testimonies of recovery from the use of cannabis oil. In Smiths Falls, healing chocolate that made the town famous has been replaced with … Continue reading
Andress’ Your Independent Grocer Takes Leap Forward
By MAGGIE M, Wedgee-inChief, Editor, the wedge.LIVE The wedge got news today that Andress Your Independent Grocer, Smiths Falls, is now accessible in your pyjamas and under a minute. Yep, they are live on the web as of May 16th. The wedge just tried the store on-line for size. The website is intuitive and elegant. … 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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
MIRACLE ENZYME : lungs, pain, scars, fibroids, Alzheimer’s, arteries…
By The Health Nut This is a word which should be in everyone’s daily lexicon : serrapeptase. And in everyone’s medicine cabinet or pantry. It’s natural. It’s an enzyme first discovered in the 1960s. Our bodies produce a lot of different enzymes. For instance, amylase is in our saliva and it breaks down food like … Continue reading
Irish rogues to offer piggy-backs at beer run
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE More evidence that Smithsfallians know how to have fun, unleashing their inner child. This March 17th inside a large venue, the former space of big-box, Target, people from Toronto to Ottawa will descend on Smiths Falls for a 400-metre run. It’s not the usual run. The first step is the … Continue reading
BOOM! Smiths Falls emboldened
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE, Show Host, “WHERE IN the wedge is MAGGIE M?” The epicentre of the wedge, Smiths Falls, keeps sprouting new life. It is spiriting to see local pride grow as awareness of its precious assets are continuously unveiled for global to local viewing. This writer witnessed moist eyes and smiles when … Continue reading
Five Friends in a Fury
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE and Host, “WHERE IN the wedge is MAGGIE M?” This writer spent hours with five young men, Nick Ritchie, Chris Haines, Joe Adams, Andrew Howard and Tim Vandermeer, inside an enormous, hollow venue. The child in me wanted to “hoo-hoo” and hear my voice echo; but, I was invited for … Continue reading
Smiths Falls gives key to citizens for Canada 150
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE and Host of “WHERE IN the wedge is MAGGIE M?” On February 1st, all ‘SmithFallians’ where invited to participate in a long list of events, 150 to be exact, for the duration of 2017, Canada’s 150th birthday. At the core, it is volunteering; but, truly it is an opportunity to … Continue reading
“Russell Street is special,” locals say.
By MAGGIE M, Editor and Host of “Where in the wedge is Maggie M?” Many cities around the world have within them a street of renown. Some names roll off travelers’ lips frequently, “Fifth Avenue” (NYC), “Via Monte Napoleone” (Milan). Their draw could be shopping, historic meaning or they could be the heart and soul … Continue reading
Our Hunger Heroes : it’s no game!
By Maggie M This writer was one of the last guests to arrive on-time at a unique event organized by Hugh Colton of Host, Town and Country Chrysler. The Perth venue was packed–even my chair was snuffed from me when I sneaked to the buffet. You see, I arrived hungry, and how fitting that was. … Continue reading
Pop-up Christmas Fun Yields Mountain of Food
By Maggie M I kick myself when I run into special moments without my digital film camera, sound boom and spotlight; but, one does not expect a grocery trip to become an impromptu party. As I exited the car at Andress’ Your Independent Grocer, I almost forgot my purpose. Elvis Presley singing Christmas songs blasted … Continue reading
Smiths Falls Boom story gets 10,200 views in 3 days!
We wrote a happy story about growth in Smiths Falls, December 2016. It was a story of hope. We at the wedge know that the established media ostensibly repeats Police reports, writes stories of health struggles and health failures. They know as we do this drives traffic; but, the wedge won’t touch these subjects with … Continue reading
the wedge 150 : a rural conquest, takes-off!
Canada kicks-off its 150th birthday celebrations on January 1, 2017! And the wedge is getting knee-deep into the fun of it. thewedge.LIVE is launching the wedge 150 : a rural conquest for every town and city in the wedge (East Ontario). Everyone in the wedge can participate: individuals (18+), businesses, schools, groups. Ottawa is doing … Continue reading
Former Chocolate Capital of Canada is sweet again
by Maggie M, Host of “Where in the wedge is Maggie M?” The departure of Hershey’s, Smiths Falls, is still raw in many hearts. “It was a great place to work,” a former employee shares. “People arrived in droves by bus daily,” another opines. ‘Tis true, Hershey’s put Smiths Falls on the map as a … Continue reading
Gateway to all directions, even up !
Got an aha! moment this week. Smiths Falls is an opportune location for both residents and businesses. It’s accessible by road, rail, water and air as no other town in East Ontario. I discovered this of my own accord–not off a plaque in the Town’s office. A clean, comfortable and rare, Via Rail stop which … Continue reading
WHERE IN the wedge IS MAGGIE M?
And now…we started this! Action! Unchartered, fresh, real. “It’s a bird! It’s plane!” No, it’s Maggie M with a film camera. Shooting everything and anything in The Wedge! Foodies and treasure hunters (everybody) will love it. Continue reading
Old Slys in action
Stay-tuned for our story on a few hot locks along the Rideau. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy this short film to experience Old Slys Locks, Smiths Fall, Ontario. It’s like being there! Continue reading
Beautification By Brushstrokes
Smart towns and cities encourage beautifying of downtown walls and windows by local creatives. Walls become canvases awaiting a brush, an artist and surprising iterations. They are a delight to the eyes, covering up weather-worn, ignored and dull surfaces. In Perth, a plain brick wall on the ‘main drag’ is covered-over with a touching painting … Continue reading
The famous from The Wedge
Yep! A-lister Ryan Gosling is from Cornwall, Ontario. Enjoy this video from his youth. Young golf star, Brooke Henderson, is from Smiths Falls. This interviewer asks if she, “could be the face of women’s sports in Canada.” A pretty face she is. SNL Conehead, Ghostbuster, Blues Brother, Dan Akroyd hails from Ottawa. Here is a … Continue reading
Who will host to a Film Festival?
Early, informal presentations were made by a private organization to Smiths Falls powers about the launch of a Smiths Falls Film Festival (SFFF). It is believed that a project of this scale would draw creatives to the city throughout the year until the red carpet event in 2017. The large Gallipeau Centre for example, now … Continue reading
SnoopDogg now Tweed Inc. shareholder : not the wooly type
Since the departure of Hershey from Smiths Falls, the 450,000 square feet void it left behind has been 40% filled by an oddity that still has locals scratching their heads, a medical marijuana plant. Yet, Tweed Inc. has returned a little livelihood to a town hit hard through no fault of theirs. Last February the … Continue reading
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