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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
This story by the Flight Network was brought to this writer’s attention. Smiths Falls is one of 50 Towns deemed best to travel to from abroad. The photos are beautiful. To boot it was selected as one of seven towns in Ontario, alongside Bracebridge and Port Hope! Pisha! Here a screen shot of the story. … Continue reading
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
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
by MAGGIE M I ventured out to pick-up a few items at the local store, now that the snow has been shoveled into mountainous heaps. In one corner of the store, I witnessed considerable movement. It was touching to see the number of men milling over cards and flowers for their beloved. It was close … Continue reading
And now learn what all the fuss is about. Hang on every word from Jenna Sudds, Executive Director, North Kanata Business Association, as Kanata North Technology Park is indeed set to roar! Continue reading
By MAGGIE M, Editor, http://thewedge.LIVE | Host “WHERE IN the wedge IS MAGGIE M?” The evening of February 7, 2017, was special to the wedge as a rising figure was speaking at The Marshes Golf Club, the famous Tech Tuesday event where leading engineers and futurists gather monthly. Despite treacherous weather, the place was stacked. … Continue reading
By The Health Nut So many people this writer encounters in the wedge suffer with gout–or know someone who does. Many are prescribed costly drugs that prolong suffering with side effects. It is inane that a simple natural food can reduce or eliminate gout and few know about it. What is gout? It’s a type … Continue reading
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
By MAGGIE M Host of “Where in the Wedge is Maggie M?”, Editor thewedge.LIVE Portland was the ‘buzz’ today. Skaters of every age group and those bootin’ it like me were spread out over the lake and the grounds. Some skated aimlessly, some did some serious speed-skating around the oval, some curled, while others slurped … Continue reading
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
By MaggieM, Host of WHERE IN the wedge IS MAGGIE M? “I love to watch people enjoying the event,” glows Portland Outdoors President, John Bongers. How he finds the time to oversee the 2017 Skate The Lake, Portland, beats me. Bongers is a sophisticated cattle farmer who rises at 4:30 am. Portland is a quaint … Continue reading
This idea from the Mississippi Mills Beautification Committee is what makes for a real contender and a winning entry to The Wedge 150 Challenge. Outstanding! The Wedge will attend to film and capture the artists and the pieces once erected. The images shown are not entries but images of like-minded sculptures found on the web. … Continue reading
If you want your pulse to speed-up, watch the Red Bull Crashed Ice race in Marseilles, France yesterday. Men and women skaters from around the world including Canada are competing in this death defying competition. It’s a course with twists and turns, sudden drops and ice moguls right in the centre of town. Your pulse … Continue reading
By The Health Nut Dr. Magda Havas is an Associate Professor of Environmental and Resource Studies at Trent U. here in Ontario; yet, she is renown worldwide for the gold-standard in her work regarding electromagnetism in our environment and its effects on our bodies. Havas’s peer-reviewed studies show that up to 35% of North America’s … Continue reading
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
Merry Christmas everyone! Don’t feel silly watching this over and over. I don’t! Continue reading
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
By The Health Nut Arthritis afflicts at least 15% of the population (I’m using American stats); but, I am confident the percentage is much higher. Contrary to popular belief, it is not age related; many children suffer from a form of arthritis. Did you catch that word? “Form”, indeed. There are up to a hundred … Continue reading
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
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
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
This is the week of lights across the wedge. Cities and towns hold their perennial Christmas Lights Festivals and Tree Lighting events. Homeowners brave the cold, climbing on ladders and rooftops with staplers, extension cords, lights and the latest from Canadian Tire. Nothing takes your breath away like a home which is a festival unto … Continue reading
In this non-stop playlist, Maggie M’s perennial favorite, The Christmas Song, by Nat King Cole, comes up quickly. This is the song with the lyrics, “chestnuts roasting by the fire.” ENJOY 3 hours of non-stop classic songs from the best performers–and images that change with them. Plug the speakers in and pipe the music through … Continue reading
Perth, by popular consensus, is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario; but, its residents are worthy of exception. They are ostensibly happy, affable and talented. I chuckle when Torontonians refer to the Ottawa region as parochial; I now understand this as a euphemism for ‘polite.’ “That’s a good thing,” Martha would say, and … Continue reading
One of our greatest shining stars in the wedge is an educator and doctor born in 1861, Almonte, Ontario. Dr. James Naismith became a sports coach as well as a physician. While employed by the YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts, Naismith was given 14 days to create an indoor sport to occupy restless young men during … Continue reading
We’re pondering designs, colours and mantras for our new t-shirts. We’re told we should offer briefs (not sure we want to make that connection). Yet. Blue is the color of water and we are wedged between two rivers, Ottawa and St. Lawrence. Hmmm… Red is so bold. Wedgees are so polite and friendly; but, 2017 … Continue reading
In this Part 1 of a mini-series of interviews, Guy Laflamme, Executive Director, Ottawa 2017, speaks of the inception of Canada’s 150th birthday celebration in Ottawa. Laflamme branded the events which start on the new year’s eve, Ottawa 2017. The numerous events, some lasting, some brief, run the course of the whole year. Suffice it … Continue reading
I attended a special event last Tuesday evening. Tech Tuesday, held monthly at the Marshes Golf Club, Kanata, compliments of Wesley Clover and Sir Terry Matthews, was full capacity. Below you can watch a preview, a trailer, to MAGGIE M’s longer interview of their special guest, Guy Laflamme, Executive Director, Ottawa 2017. His words and … Continue reading
Last August, we were aiming to visit Chaffeys Locks as I had heard so much about it; however, on arrival, something drew my attention away from my task. A colorful resort towered over the lock. It reminded me of my grandparents’s cottage by its color scheme and the way it was set back in the … Continue reading
I attended the Equinox Night Market, Perth, Ontario, last Thursday evening. It’s a public culinary event produced by Midnight Makers Collective, sponsored by Perth Tourism and featuring some of Perth’s finest Chefs, food and beverage services and manufacturers. Music and lights added to the atmosphere as the night evolved. People convene around food; this was … Continue reading
I was at the ByWard Market in Ottawa last Thursday afternoon and the place was hopping! I was truly surprised to find out how large, how many blocks, lanes and courtyards are comprised in the ByWard : 400 + shops, cafes, restaurants, craft vendors, produce vendors, clubs and services. Did you know the ByWard Market … Continue reading
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
Business names are critical to success; they can make or break them. Some names are so dull or common customers simply cannot remember them. A cafe in Gananoque bears the name, The Socialist Pig*, a name so counter-intuitive, it elicits guffaws. You are compelled to see what’s going on inside. Now, towns’s and hamlet’s names … Continue reading
I ventured South again to yet another gem in The Wedge. Once I drove over the bridge, made it to the waterfront, I discovered two unique attractions one block from each other. I was silly and inspired under hour. Here is my third Episode of WHERE IN the wedge IS MAGGIE M? I’ll be back … Continue reading
Perth is saturated in stories and ‘histories’. The town is beautiful to behold; but, its stories need to be told. Who better than Julie Brunelle and Peter Wood? Both teachers by profession, this husband-wife team court the public with unique tours of Perth on wheels. Get a quick impression with our video, our second episode, … Continue reading
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
The Gananoque 2016 Nickel Cup Hydroplane Regatta is a ‘go-to’ of summer experiences. This ride isn’t virtual, made with pixels. You may need safety gear to watch! Enjoy this great video by Alain Binette. Continue reading
Stay-tuned for our story of a few select locks on the Rideau Canal, Ontario. Chaffeys is very special; here is a preview in our short film. Continue reading
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
“It’s Almont not Almontay,” announced Baker Bob, owner of the Baker Bob’s, Town of Almonte. “I know this, yet I say it again and again,” this writer replied, huffing and puffing, soaked and seeking respite from the excruciating heat. “It must be the French in me,” I gasped. “Actually ‘Almont-ay’, is more hispanic sounding,” Bob … Continue reading
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
Ouch! The tail bone hurts just to look at this! Bulls, horses, sheep and dogs merged with human will and skill–the Arnprior Stampede and Rodeo 2016 is all of it. We sadly missed it but this Mainstream Media company captured it well. Have a quick virtual ride here. “Who let the dogs out,” moment. Worth … Continue reading
Has the mystery been solved? Someone has clearly been missing his/her royalties since the turn of the 20th century. Can anyone claim they are the recipe-maker? Here are three contenders for the legend: Thousand Islands are famous for their beauty; but, ironically, world-renown for their salad dressing-slash-condiment. The battle ensues between the Thousand Islands, Chicago … Continue reading
We could write endlessly about Rideau Valley; but, pictures are worth a thousands poems. On the West edge of The Wedge is this jewel that spreads out with endless vistas and quaint corners. We ventured into key hot-spots; but, many treasures await us still. You could spend a summer experiencing the Rideau, suspending European landmarks … Continue reading
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
Outstanding video by a delightful Queen’s sophomore showing peers how to settle in to a dorm. It removes a lot of apprehension and helps plan for the big move-in. It’s worth watching till the end for the big, “weeeee!” Continue reading
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
A large nested bald eagle and a large nested owl, perched high-up, flank the opening gates at this unique storage facility. A sombrero-capped Mexican strumming a guitar and two inukshuks (Inuit stone sculptures) are the opening acts on the ground. Pro-Lock Storage Units By The Falls in Montague is the brain-child of Portland resident, Gary Greer. … Continue reading
It’s a new voice for East Ontario launched initially on the web; The Wedge went live August 2016. The Wedge is positive. It’s creative. It’s fun and inspiring. It’s what you need with your coffee in the morning–to start your day with happy feet. We call it The Wedge because the area covered is shaped … Continue reading
Such is humour at the Crossroads Tea Room celebrating the 200th anniversary of their beloved Perth. I inquired on the meaning of the French Queen greeting guests. We settled tongue-in-cheek on a reference to “cake”. “We are the only tea room in Perth,” the manager quickened. “We ran out of scones today,” she added. Among … Continue reading
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
Merrickville antique shop owners, Bill and Pam Kenny, have had challenges in the last few years; but, their love of collecting the nostalgic and antique is unfettered. “I’m the last man standing,” says Bill Kenny as he recounts a group of six friends. They spent many years together, collecting and purveying antiques on Highway 43 … Continue reading
