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Arts Carleton Place (ACP) officially opens its new, permanent, Art Hub Gallery location at 127 Bridge Street on June 3. After one year at 50 Bennett, ACP artists continue to expand on their dream of a permanent location to show and sell their art and artisanal work. Moving to 127 Bridge St. brings the Art Hub Gallery to the heart of Carleton Place, joining a vibrant collection of popular shops and restaurants.
From March 14 through May 24, ACP ran a pop-up art show titled A Taste of Art at the new location. The show was well received, with many visitors during its 10-week run. ACP has transformed the pop-up space, with its “art show” look, into a bright, professional fine art gallery. The Art Hub Gallery is still warm and welcoming with lofty ceilings, large windows and well-lit displays that provide a relaxing space that invites you to stay a while.
A cooperatively run venture, the Art Hub Gallery features the work of approximately 40 ACP members. Member artists staff the gallery, and they are always happy to answer questions about the works on display. The gallery presents its work as a series of art shows, and the first show for the Art Hub on Bridge Street, titled Let’s Dream, runs for 7 weeks.
At the gallery you will find a wide selection of affordable fine art, photography, jewellery, pottery, sculpture, and art cards available for purchase. It is a fantastic location to find that perfect gift for someone, or a treat for yourself. And if you can’t decide what to get, gift certificates are available. ACP members are all local and at the gallery you buy directly from the artists!
The Art Hub Gallery also provides an Art Factory outlet in the “art supply nook” at the rear of the new space. A range of art supplies are on site, and anything available at the Renfrew Art Factory can be ordered for pick up at the gallery.
ACP and its Art Hub members are thrilled to be joining the vibrant heart of historic downtown Carleton Place. They encourage you to stroll along Bridge Street, visit local businesses, and check out the great restaurants all within walking distance of the gallery.
Whether you are browsing or buying, the Art Hub Gallery is well worth a visit. Hours are 10am to 5pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; 10am to 7pm on Thursday and Friday, and 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. Find more information at <artscarletonplace.com>.
Last month, the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario celebrated the launch of its newest attraction: the S.T.E.A.M. Train, a hands-on interactive exhibit housed inside a beautifully restored historic railway car. This exciting new exhibit combines the rich history of Canada’s railways with modern educational experiences focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). The project was made possible thanks to a $150,000 non-repayable contribution from the Government of Canada, delivered through the Tourism Growth Program by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
The immersive environment encourages learning through play and exploration, with features such as:
A miniature steam engine that children can climb into and pretend to operate.
Bridge-building activities, magnetic gear wall, marble run, and LEGO station, ball drop activity for engineering play.
A miniature telegraph, ticket office, and post office for imaginative play.
A cozy book nook, creative art station, and interactive train table wall.
The entire S.T.E.A.M. Train exhibit is uniquely housed in a restored Canadian Northern combination car — a historic railcar that once served both passengers and freight. This authentic setting allows visitors to experience railway history in a tangible, engaging way.
This project was made possible through funding announced on August 26, 2024, when the Government of Canada committed $150,000 through FedDev Ontario’s Tourism Growth Program to support the creation of the exhibit. “The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadian tourism experiences, like the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, as they expand their offerings and welcome visitors to their must-see attractions in the region,” said the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario. “The S.T.E.A.M. Train Children’s Education Experience will be a wonderful addition to the museum for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.”
Becky Allen, Executive Director of RMEO, added: “We are incredibly grateful for the support from the Federal Government’s Tourism Growth Program. This contribution allowed us to create a one-of-a-kind educational space that celebrates our railway heritage while inspiring future generations. We’re thrilled to open the S.T.E.A.M. Train to the public and look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far.”
Admission to the S.T.E.A.M. Train is included with museum entry, and school groups are encouraged to book field trips featuring guided programming, scavenger hunts, and outdoor picnic options.
The very first Canada Blooms, the largest flower and garden festival in Canada, was held in March of 1997. It drew over 70,000 visitors to the Toronto Congress Centre in just five days, a record for a first-time show. The organizers were simultaneously floored and elated.
Three months later, Paul Loiselle, owner of Kiwi Gardens near Perth, hosted his inaugural Art in the Garden on Father’s Day weekend. While much smaller in scale, attendance and interest in the event surpassed his wildest expectations too.
It was clear they were on to something.
Twenty-eight years ago, gardening was evolving beyond traditional flowerbeds. Concepts like forest gardens and naturalistic styles that combined perennial plants with ornamental grasses were gaining popularity.
Increasingly, gardens were seen as an extension of the home to be styled and personalized like you would an indoor space.
At the time, Paul was collaborating with landscape architects. While working on these projects, he recognized there was an unmet demand for quality, custom accessories for the new-style gardens.
Art in the Garden was born from the convergence of three elements at play: emerging garden design trends, a vibrant artistic community nearby, and an occasion to celebrate. Hard to believe now, but mid-June (that is to say, after May 24) was then considered the end of the traditional garden planting season here in Eastern Ontario!
From the beginning, artists have embraced the opportunity to showcase their wonderful, whimsical array of garden art in situ at Kiwi Gardens. Birdhouses are hung from trees in the forest, stone sculptures stand proud amidst the blooming peonies, benches placed along pathways invite a passerby to sit and rest, and scrap metal is repurposed into artful décor.
Visitors love it, too. There’s an undeniable uplifting effect the moment you step into this natural wonderland. Relaxation ensues, senses perk up, mood improves. Old friends meet. New connections are made. Everywhere you look there’s something beautiful to behold.
It truly is an enchanting experience.
Of course, outdoor events can sometimes be tricky when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Luckily for Art in the Garden, Mother Nature has graciously smiled on Kiwi Gardens during Father’s Day weekend for nearly three decades. Well, mostly. She has been cranky on occasion.
As in life, change is inevitable, and so it is with gardening. Nowadays, the older generation are downsizing their gardens or transitioning to more manageable container gardening. Some of their younger counterparts are ripping up their urban front yards and planting vegetables along with native pollinators to encourage wildlife. Others are outfitting their garden spaces with custom kitchens, covered patios and fire pits for outdoor entertaining.
Lots of good things endure too. Gardening is still considered one of the best and most fun forms of exercise. It’s a delightful way to relieve stress. It encourages you to get up close and personal with nature. And, as Lady Bird Johnson said, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” We could all use more of that.
Kiwi Gardens remains one of the finest independent nurseries in Eastern Ontario for plant assortment and service. They stock thousands of hardy perennials, from dependable favourites to bewitching and uncommon varieties, all of which are grown on site with care and expertise. The staff are experienced gardeners who can help you select the best plants for your growing conditions and garden design. And their ten acres of mature gardens and forest trails are second to none and an inspiration to stroll among in any season.
Best of all, Art in the Garden continues to celebrate all that is marvellous about art, nature and community on one glorious, magical weekend in June. Please come out and join the party!
The Medieval Market also returns on Sunday, June 15 from 10am to 4pm. Six artisans from The Cordwood Folk School <thecordwoodstudio.com> will demonstrate traditional crafts like hide tanning, basket weaving, felt making, blacksmithing, wood working and stone cutting. Step back in time and experience their lively open-air market.
Art in the Garden takes place from June 13–15 at Kiwi Gardens, which is located at 687 Harper Road near Perth. For event details, please visit <kiwigardens.ca>. Advance tickets are available at Tickets Please (TicketsPlease.ca, 485–6434), so book now to ensure your time slot!
Did you know that the Almonte Beach has been enjoyed in many ways over the years, and that you now have a chance to help keep it in tiptop shape?
Located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi on the lands of the North Lanark Agricultural Society (NLAS) — home to Canada’s oldest wooden covered grandstand built in 1868 — the beach is part of a storied place. With an incomparable view of the river, people have gathered here through time to relax and play, to enjoy slides in the water, to hold picnics, make merry at festivals, float all kinds of watercraft — in fact, once there was a canoe club and tuck shop too. When stories are shared, so much is learned — we hear that a medieval Trebuchet was set up on the sand once for a live demonstration!
So much is possible if the beach is maintained, and that’s where the Friends of the Almonte Beach hope you can come in. This enthusiastic group of friends have had their care of the beach approved as an Adopt-a-Park location by Mississippi Mills Council and the NLAS. Now the group needs more hands to help clean the beach on a regular basis and to ensure it remains part of the bigger story of recreation in Almonte.
Lend a hand to the work ahead, make friends, and even earn community hours if you need them, to help maintain the beach. And if you have pictures or memories of times at the Almonte beach we want to know about those too. Email Connie at <conniejbielby@gmail.com> to volunteer or if you have a story or picture to share.
Step up and step into history — with a shovel, a broom, and energy. Summer awaits!
Summer in Eganville brings an influx of visiting tourists, cottagers and campers. Since 2003, it also brings the Bonnechere Authors Festival (BAF), now a popular event with people all over the Ottawa Valley. This is a festival of Canadian authors, four each year, whose works in the past have ranged from fiction and mystery to memoirs, history and true adventure. A different author is featured each Monday evening in July, and this year offers an exciting selection!
Wayne Ng opens the festival this year on July 7. He is an award-winning Ottawa-based writer who has spent three decades as a social worker. His work experiences lend a poignancy and emotion to his stories, and he also grew up in Toronto as the son of immigrant parents, so he knows about the insecurities and challenges faced by children existing in the minefield of a strange new environment.
Ng is the author of The Family Code, which was shortlisted for the Guernica Prize, an award that recognizes cutting-edge work that pushes the boundaries. He has also written Finding the Way: A Novel of Lao Tzu, as well as Letters from Johnny, winner of the Crime Writers of Canada Award for Best Crime Novella and a finalist for the Ottawa Book Award.
His popular book Letters from Johnny features a young boy troubled by a neighbour’s murder during the FLQ crisis who resorts to sending letters to Dave Keon of the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs because he feels Keon is trustworthy. At BAF, he will present his standalone follow-up novel Johnny Delivers, which takes place when Johnny is a teenager. In order to help the family finances, he begins to include weed deliveries with the egg rolls he delivers from the family’s business!
July 14 features Amy Tector — another Ottawa resident and an employee at Archives Canada for more than 20 years. She also had a stint as the archivist in The Hague for the United Nations Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals. She has created the Dominion Archives Mysteries series, set in Ottawa, featuring a female archivist who deals with murders and mayhem occurring in the Archives. They are standalone novels and she will be discussing the third in the series, Honor the Dead. The first book in this series was a finalist in the Crime Writers of Canada awards.
On July 21, accomplished writer Elizabeth Hay will speak about her latest novel, Snow Road Station, described as a coming-of-middle-age story set in small-town Ontario where a humiliated aging actress returns after leaving the theatre. Hay is the Giller Prize-winning author of six novels, including Late Nights on Air, His Whole Life, and A Student of Weather. Her memoir All Things Consoled, a daughter’s memoir won the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Non-Fiction; her story collection Small Change was shortlisted for the Governor General’s Award in Fiction. Her books are enriched by her experiences living in several different Ontario locations and other areas in Canada as well as London, England, New York City and Mexico. Since 1992 she has been happily back in Ottawa, the setting for several of her stories.
The final evening of BAF features Marilyn Carr and her latest book If It’s Shreveport, It Must Be Tuesday. Her books are autobiographical, and each one is based on entertaining memories of a particular aspect or period of her life. All are written with humour, and this latest memoir describes her exploits while crisscrossing the United States to interview business leaders and write their success stories. She considered it “culture shock in a foreign land”. Her other witty memoirs are Nowhere Like This Place: Tales from a Nuclear Childhood (her memories of growing up in the unique town of Deep River, Ontario, initially created to support the nuclear industry at nearby Chalk River), and How I Invented the Internet.
BAF is now held in the local community centre, called the Eagle’s Nest, located upstairs from the arena at 178 Jane Street. It is fully accessible thanks to a lift. The evenings begin at 6:30pm with a social time offering of homemade sweets and treats, followed by the author’s presentation at 7pm. The author’s books are always available for purchase and there is a book signing after the presentation. Tickets at the door cost $20. A season’s pass is available in advance at Bonnechere Union Public Library in Eganville (628–2400), and at the door on Week One for $60. This allows for 4 admissions, so it can be used for each of the 4 evenings, or it can be used twice for entry for 2 people, for example.
The community has embraced and enjoyed BAF and the business community provides generous support. Major sponsors this year are The Egan Inn, Rio Tap & Grill, and Bonnechere Caves. Secondary sponsors are The Ledger Lady and Eagle Tax Service.
The sights and sounds of the Pipes and Drums and Highland Dancing held in September of last year was such a resounding success that the Tattoo will be returning to the Town of Carleton Place again this year on Sunday, June 22, beginning at noon. It is an event you will not want to miss.
It will once again be held on the grounds adjoining the Captain A. Roy Brown Legion Branch 192 building located at 177 George Street in Carleton Place beginning at noon. The Almonte Legion Branch 240 Pipe Band will be the Duty Band for the Tattoo, who proudly wear the Ramsay Tartan. The Senior Drum Major for the Tattoo will be Darryl Lim, Drum Major of the Ottawa Caledonian Pipes and Drums.
Other bands will include the RCMP Pipe Band Ottawa and their Highland dancers, the Kemptville Legion Pipes and Drums, the Renfrew Highlands Pipes and Drums, the Sons of Scotland Pipe Band of Ottawa, the RCAF Pipes and Drums from Ottawa, the OPP Commissioners Own Pipes and Drums and the 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Pipes and Drums from base Petawawa. To add to the Scottish heritage, both the Rosemary Breman Highland Dancers from Carleton Place and the Nichols School of Dance Highland Dancers from Beckwith Township will perform.
Refreshments and BBQ food will be available throughout the afternoon in the backyard of the Legion grounds at a nominal cost. There will be no admission price, but a collection will be taken during the afternoon performances to offset the cost of the Tattoo. No pets will be allowed on Legion property other than recognized certified service dogs, so please leave your pets at home.
In order to not impede the marching of the Pipe Bands and our Highland Dancers, spectators are being asked to not congregate or enter the playing field or the outside perimeter of the playing field or on any of the streets being cordoned off for the Pipe Bands. These areas will be cordoned off for access for the Pipe Bands only and will be policed with the assistance of local OPP.
Spectators are asked to only congregate in the back yard of the Legion grounds. Since seating is limited, it is suggested that people bring their own lawn chairs.
This is a community event, and the public is cordially invited to enjoy some real Scottish heritage through the sights and sounds of the Pipes and Drums and Highland Dancers. The event is being sponsored by Tops Environmental Solutions and the Town of Carleton Place.
National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21, is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. First proclaimed in 1996, it coincides with the Summer Solstice and is now part of the Celebrate Canada program. The day invites all Canadians to engage in meaningful acts of reflection, learning, and reconciliation.
The Summer Solstice is a significant part of many Indigenous cultures in Canada and holds deep meaning as a time of renewal, gratitude, and connection with the land. It is a time for storytelling — passing down culture, teachings, and memory through spoken word, song, and ceremony. The Summer Solstice is also celebrated by many other cultures around the world. While Christians don’t have a religious celebration associated with solstice, the sun is sometimes used as a metaphor to represent God. Most religious people, however, recognize and celebrate the sacredness of all creation. And religious or not, Indigenous or not, we all delight in the coming of the first day of summer.
To celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day, Mississippi Mills All My Relations is again holding a Solstice community event in the spirit of the late, highly celebrated Algonquin Elder William Commanda, whose life’s work embraced the belief in a circle of all nations and a culture of peace. Grandfather William was Chief of the Kitigan Zibi Algonquin Anishinaabeg Reserve for 20 years and served as a globally renowned spiritual leader for the remainder of his 97 years. He received many accolades from both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. He was appointed as carrier of three sacred wampum belts of historical significance (the 1800’s Sharing Belt, the Jay Treaty Border Crossing Belt, and the Seven Fires Prophecy Belt), and was considered by many to be the “Grand Chief of North America”. He was also honoured with the 12th Key to the city of Ottawa, was given two honorary doctorate degrees, was appointed to the Order of Canada, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards.
If you would like to make a contribution to celebrate solstice — for example a story, poetry, music etc. from your own culture — please email <mm.allmyrelations@gmail.com>. They would be delighted to include you.
This year’s celebration takes place at two locations, offering space to listen, reflect, and celebrate together.
What’s Happening
From 8:30am to noon at the John Levi Community Centre, start your day with a pancake breakfast hosted by Ginawaydaganuc Village. In the spirit of the Algonquin teaching that “all things are connected,” this gathering offers food and community connection. This event is by donation.
During this time, beginning at 10am, Danka Brewer, a respected Algonquin knowledge keeper from the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation, will generously share stories and teachings suitable for parents and children. With years of experience in cultural education, she brings warmth, wisdom, and deep care for the wellbeing of future generations.
From 4pm to sunset at Riverfront Park, visit the Seven Gifts installation for an afternoon of stories, music, dancing, crafts and culture hosted by Ojibway Knowledge Keeper John Henry Commanda. Highlights include Indigenous storytelling, opportunities for discussion and reflection, live music, jingle dance performances, cultural displays and artisan crafts, and a community barbecue (by donation).
This day of connection, culture, and commitment to a shared future will close by watching the sunset together in the spirit of peace, reflection, and shared intention.
This celebration is more than a community event — it’s a living gesture of reconciliation. Through storytelling, art, and shared moments, everyone is invited to step into ethical space — where Indigenous and non-Indigenous worldviews can meet in respect and learning, guided by the principle of two-eyed seeing. If you have questions or want to get involved, please contact Sue Evans at <mm.allmyrelations@gmail.com>
Organizers thank the sponsors who are contributing to this event: Mississippi Mills, Lanark Immigration Partnership, and the Government of Canada. Miigwetch, Maarsi, Qujannamiik, Thank you.
Join us on Saturday, July 12 and take in the gorgeous blooms, greenery and architecture of the beautiful town of Perth, Ontario. Visit 11 whimsical to traditionally-designed gardens all within town, some featuring perennials, shrubs, trees and vegetables while others showcase a range of plants from native to the exotic or uncommon.
Plan to stop a bit longer at select houses to listen to live music — piano, guitar, cello, violin and harp — and enjoy original oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings, plus stained glass.
Make sure to visit tour headquarters at the Royal Canadian Legion on Beckwith Street where you can try your luck at winning a raffle basket that includes items generously donated by our local small businesses. A catered Garden Picnic Lunch featuring an assortment of sandwiches, desserts and a cold drink can be pre-purchased for $20, and lunch will be waiting for you at the Legion.
Proceeds from the 2nd Annual Home & Garden Tour, presented by CFUW Perth and District and Platinum Sponsor Realtor Stephanie Mols, support our financial bursary program that helps women in the Perth area pursue post-secondary education, as well as our local advocacy and educational activities in libraries, community agencies and elementary schools. Since 1999, CFUW Perth and District has distributed more than $250,275 to 204 deserving recipients, empowering individuals to pursue their educational aspirations.
The tour takes place on Saturday, July 12 from 9:30am to 4:30pm rain or shine. Tickets for the full-day self-guided tour are only $35 and can be purchased online at <Ticketsplease.ca> (credit card) or in person (cash only) at select retailers in Perth: Fall River Fashions, Fashion Envy, Kelly’s Flowers, Mariposa Design Inc., and Lavendar & Lace. They can also be purchased in Carleton Place at Carleton Place Nursery; in Smiths Falls at C’est Tout Bakery; and in Westport at Rosie Yumski’s.
We want to acknowledge the more than 50 businesses that support our Home & Garden Tour as sponsors or by donating goods to our raffle gift baskets. For a list, and to find links to their websites, visit <cfuwperthhomeandgarden.org>.
To learn more about what CFUW Perth & District does in the community, please visit us at <cfuwperth.org>.
Get ready for a day of fun, music, and community spirit! ClaytonFest, the annual outdoor music festival hosted by the Clayton Recreation Club, returns on July 19 from noon to 7:30pm. This year’s event promises a fantastic lineup of local musical talent and a vibrant marketplace featuring local vendors. This year’s performers include Country Reflections, Ali McCormick, Brad and Marty, Cashmen Ford, Vicki Brittle, Jame & Brendan McMunn, The Maywoods, and Small Town Socials.
Held at the picturesque Clayton Community Centre (located at 147 Linn Bower Lane), this is more than just a festival — it is a vital fundraiser supporting the ongoing maintenance and improvement of this beloved community hub.
Proceeds from ClaytonFest directly bene?t the Clayton Community Centre, a privately funded facility run by volunteers for over 40 years. Past fundraising efforts have already yielded significant improvements including a newly constructed pavilion and upgraded parking lot. This year’s funds will continue to support the Centre’s operations and future projects.
The Clayton Community Centre is a versatile space available for rentals, perfect for weddings, parties and various events. With a seating capacity of 233, kitchen facilities, a bar and a stage, it is the ideal location for gatherings of all sizes.
Mark your calendars and join the community for a day of celebration at ClaytonFest! Tickets are $25 (10 and under free), and can be purchased from Clayton General Store, Nicholson’s Sundries, and the Almonte Legion. For details, visit <claytonontario.ca/claytonfest> or email <claytonfest2025@gmail.com>.
Volunteer at ClaytonFest and earn community service hours! Shifts are a minimum of two hours, and volunteers receive free admission to the event. Please email <claytonfest2025@gmail.com> to express your interest.
Mark your calendar and tell your friends — Almonte Celtfest will be back in Gemmill Park for a full weekend of family-friendly entertainment from July 4-6.
The 29th edition of the festival kicks off with a blast of Celtic energy in a triple-bill lineup featuring Ottawa favourite the Bytown Sea Shanty Collective, Métis fiddler Alex Kusturok, and Celtic rock warriors the Mudmen, who last played Celtfest in 2019. Tickets for opening night are $35, and are available through Front Door Plus and at the gate.
Thanks to the generosity of festival sponsors, entrance to Saturday and Sunday’s programming continues to be by donation at the gate. The weekend promises plenty of music, dancing and fun in the park from noon until late. From multi-instrumentalist Benj Rowland and bluegrass band Crooked Creek to the Québécois trad folk sound of La Déferlance, the program has something for everyone. Among other highlights are Ryan Young, a traditional fiddler on tour from Scotland, and Swedish duo Silverfura.
If you enjoy less traditional Celtic inspired music, be sure to catch JUNO award winners The McDades on Saturday night. This trio brings a unique Celtic-rooted sound and fiery live show, fusing the spontaneity of jazz improvisation with infectious global rhythms.
And if you prefer a more traditional Celtic sound, you won’t want to miss fiddle supergroup Women of Fiddle featuring Anna Ludlow, Terri-Lynn Mahusky, Sherryl Fitzpatrick and Karen Steven, who bring a range of fiddle styles and step dancing to the stage, as well as Montreal’s Sassenach who blend innovative arrangements of traditional Irish, Scottish and Québecois tunes with original compositions in the traditional style.
This year’s festival also carries on a strong tradition of showcasing local Celtic musicians with plenty of talented area musicians on the bill including community favourites the Barley Shakers, the fine fiddling of Kyle Felhaver, the Almonte Legion Pipe Band, Fromage à Trois, and Valley Voices of Almonte. Upcoming local talent will also be showcased at the presentation of the Danny O’Connell Memorial Award, and Maggie’s Wake will close out the weekend with a musical one-two punch of original tunes and a rich Celtic sound that is sure to get you up out of your camp chair one last time!
Rounding out the event, there will be Celtic college workshops where you can learn tunes and tips from musicians playing in the festival, a Lil’ Celtz area with activities for the kids, buskers performing around town, Gaelic sports demonstrations, a late night jam session on Saturday, food trucks, a cash bar, artisanal vendors, and a shade tent, making this a family-friendly event with something for everyone.
Almonte Celtfest would like to thank Heritage Canada, the Town of Mississippi Mills and the Ontario government, along with the many sponsors, for their support that will ensure that this year’s festival is one to remember. Check out <AlmonteCeltfest.com> for details and follow @AlmonteCeltfest on Facebook and Instagram for festival news and updates.
Back Forty Artisan Cheese invites food lovers, music fans and families to celebrate the best of local flavour and international flair at the 8th annual Curds and Cooks festival, taking place on Saturday, June 28 from 11am to 5pm.
Held on the scenic grounds of Back Forty’s farm and creamery in North Frontenac, the event showcases the region’s top artisan foods, craft beverages, and live global music — all centered around Back Forty’s award-winning raw sheep milk cheeses.
This year’s festival will feature a vibrant marketplace of local producers including handmade chocolates by renowned chocolatier Ludwig Ratzinger, sweet and savoury treats from Perth Pie Co., and preserves from Tasha’s Table. New additions include Perth’s Basic Kneads Bakery and Sydenham’s Grains and Goods, who will be offering their much-loved German pretzels and other artisanal baked goods.
Guests can enjoy the popular beer-battered deep fried cheese curds, then cool off with a refreshing drink from featured craft brewers, winemakers and kombucha makers — including Artizen Beverage Co. — all of whom will be on-site serving and sharing their craft.
As always, music is a central part of the Curds and Cooks experience. This year’s laid-back, summer vibe will be set by Trinidadian steel drum virtuoso Hu Pierre and his band, bringing the sunny rhythms of the Caribbean to the Highlands.
Festival fare will include a variety of dishes prepared with heritage breed meats raised right on the Back Forty farm. Co-owners Jeff and Jenna Fenwick are proud to serve their whey-fed smoked pork, grass-fed Highland beef, and pastured organic chicken, all prepared festival-style and packed with flavour.
“Curds and Cooks has always been about more than just food — it’s about connection,” says Jeff. “This festival brings together real people making real food, and it’s a chance to celebrate everything that makes our community special.”
“Admission is free because we want this to be a day where people come together to support small producers and enjoy what our region has to offer,” adds Jenna.
In addition to the event, Back Forty’s farm-to-table bistro and cheese shop are now open for the season every Friday and Saturday from 11:30am to 7pm. Don’t miss their wood-fired sourdough pizza made with house-cured meats, garden-fresh vegetables, and their award-winning cheeses.
For full event details, visit <artisancheese.ca> or follow @back40artisancheese on Instagram.
The Health Unit hosted an interesting gathering on emergency planning in Mississippi Mills in May.
Invited were staff from the municipality, the fire department, emergency responders, and community organizations with interests in helping seniors prepare for emergencies and with interests in the “new” emergencies of the climate crisis.
I remember thinking decades ago that the emergency preparedness people had to begin to integrate the consequences of the climate breakdown into their planning. I’m glad to see it happening.
About seven years ago I managed to get into a special Ottawa conference that brought together climate scientists with the insurance industry. One key takeaway for me was that, should Canada experience disasters on all three coasts at the same time, the insurance industry could NOT cover the costs, that the federal government would be on the hook, and that those costs would be in the billions! It was my understanding that it was that finding that caused the Harper government to finally pay attention to the climate crisis.
Since then, you’re seeing more insurance companies advise you to take certain climate protection actions. But the crisis is far from abated, and I’ve been wondering recently just when things would become so severe that governments would want to back away from providing financial assistance. It seems we may be seeing that now in the US, in the poor response of their Federal Emergency Management Agency to disasters there which, even if not caused by the climate breakdown, have certainly been exacerbated by it.
In 2023, Canada had over $3 billion in insured losses due to extreme weather. The Canadian Climate Institute estimated that by this year, 2025, we would need a 0.35 percent increase in corporate and personal income taxes to cover increased government spending of about $5 billion annually on climate damages, without eroding services. The cost of paying for climate damages is overwhelming the cost of climate mitigation.
More attention is being paid to adaptation — to preparing us to address the consequences of the climate crisis — not just to mitigate it or slow it down. On the national front, the federal government released its National Adaptation Strategy in 2023 <canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/national-adaptation-strategy>.
More of the funding allocated by the feds to climate action is dedicated to adaptation actions. Lanark County, and a couple of lower-tier municipalities, are working on climate adaption plans. And locally, we are now starting to see emergency planning taking the climate crisis into account, as the Mississippi Mills example shows.
Climate Network Lanark is hoping to work with Age Friendly Together, a community group in Mississippi Mills, on adapting and revising their project to reach more seniors in Tay Valley and Drummond North Elmsley townships to help them prepare for climate crises.
We know that in our area we will be dealing with more heat extremes, more freezing rain, and more power outages, as well as more high wind and tornado events, flooding, drought and fire events.
As just one example on that list, extreme heat is not only uncomfortable — it kills. We know this from BC, one of the few provinces that measures death by heat. In 2021, 619 people there died from extreme heat. The Canadian Climate Atlas forecast for this region calls for an increase from 13 days of 30°+ in 2005 to up to 32 such days each summer from now through 2050. The forecast doesn’t say whether that 30°+ temp is 31° or 41° — just that it’s a huge chunk of the summer!
But aside from the direct impact on people (and animals, and crops), such extreme heat strains energy systems, risking power outages.
This is just one of the climate-related emergencies we need to prepare for. Conventional emergency planning has not accommodated this, nor most of the other related threats, in ways that reflect new perspectives brought about by the climate crisis. People in our area aren’t used to the high winds that give rise to tornadoes and the derecho of a few years ago. We haven’t given thought to back-up power supplies such as electric batteries and EV cars that can provide power to a house. We haven’t investigated whether we have overland flood insurance from our insurance companies. We haven’t assessed the risk of fire to our homes from vegetation growing close to a house. We haven’t fully acknowledged the huge benefit we have in Lanark County in our extensive wetlands that protect us from flooding and fire (and sequester more carbon than forests do — see CNL’s website for details). There are so many things that need to be integrated into emergency planning that accommodate thinking about climate adaptation.
That’s why I am so pleased to hear about the new book Fragile Shelters — Surviving a Climate Crisis: How to Protect Your Home, featured on the facing page. It’s written by locals Cam Allen and Paul Zammit.
Last year, when trying to find a speaker for our Electrify Lanark workshop series, we could not find anyone who could address both conventional emergency planning and residential climate adaptation. We’re thrilled to now have these two local experts!
Local Home Resiliency
You can learn more about how to make your home more resilient by checking out the Home Resiliency section on Climate Network Lanark’s website <climatenetworklanark.ca/electrify-lanark-workshop-resources>. For a more thorough exploration, join our Neighbourhood Climate Concierge clusters in Almonte, Carleton Place, Lanark Village, Perth or Smiths Falls. Sign up through our website at <climatenetwork-lanark.ca/climate-concierge>.
To keep up to date on other CNL activities, visit <climatenetworklanark.ca> and subscribe to our free newsletter!
I have fond memories of my maternal grandmother and her ongoing battle with grackles and robins that were inordinately attracted to her sweet cherry tree. At least in my childhood memories, this was a huge cherry tree, about 30 feet broad and 30 feet tall. A number of old cow bells had been hung from one of the higher branches. A rope stretched a few hundred feet from the tree to my grandmother’s veranda. The routine was to yank on the rope anytime you went in or out of the house, and truth be told, it was a favourite pastime for young grandkids.
Fast forward a few decades, and I have become a bit of an obsessive birder (birdwatcher) and am generally very happy to see more birds drawn into the garden. But, as always, the relationship of gardeners with nature tends to be complicated. After a long difficult winter, many of us are looking forward to those first succulent, juicy berries that we have carefully nurtured, only to find that the birds have been joyfully pecking away at everything in sight. The most frustrating aspect is that birds like their fruit a bit less sweet than we do, so they swoop in a day or so before we had planned to do our first picking!
For a professional take on birds in the garden, I reached out to a couple of local market gardeners — keen organic growers who care deeply about our natural world. Alberto, of Nature’s Apprentice, operates a market garden near Pakenham. He is a scientist and a passionate gardener who gardens to regenerate our ecosystems. For much more about his approach to growing food and options for purchasing some of his amazing produce, visit <naturesapprenticefarm.ca>.
Scott and Marisa of Indian Creek Orchard Garden, halfway between Almonte and Pakenham, are also fervent believers in regenerative agriculture and agroforestry. Check out their offerings at <indiancreekorchard.ca>.
I can do no better than to quote their views.
In the words of Alberto: “Birds do mostly positive things for us, particularly during the growing season, as they incessantly feed insects to their young. They are one of the best allies of a gardener. I do everything I can to attract them. This includes creating nesting and resting habitat (nest boxes, shrubs, trees), providing food (by planting native plants, which attract native insects) and water, and keeping a safe, chemical-free environment. We also don’t cut our hay until late in the summer so that grassland birds can nest safely. I also try to make sure my structures (trellises, posts, etc.) provide good perches for birds. We don’t remove dead trees unless they are a hazard. They are fantastic perches, particularly for hawks. Finally, we have made all our windows safe for birds by either drawing patterns on them or having our screens on the outside, so that the birds can see the window is actually an obstacle.”
Alberto’s views on the challenges that birds may pose: “Some birds like to eat from the garden. For example, goldfinches occasionally munch on beet greens. The main challenge is with fruit. We have all kinds of fruits and berries. When they are getting close to being ripe, I see flocks of birds on the plants every morning. They seem particularly attracted to small, blue fruits (blueberries, haskaps, elderberries). I personally like to share with them. It is my way to reciprocate for their hard work at keeping the ecosystem in balance and giving me so much joy with their presence. But for people who are concerned about this, there are nets that can be used for protecting your crops. Birds sometimes get tangled in these nets, so it is critical to not only choose a net that is bird-safe, but also to check them regularly in case birds need to be released, particularly during extreme weather.”
Scott conveys a similar sentiment: “Birds are an important component of our pest management strategy at Indian Creek Orchard Gardens. Since we converted the hay field we purchased in 2015 to the very biodiverse ecosystem the orchard is today, we have seen a dramatic uptick in both the numbers and species of birds that either reside or forage here. We have also been proactive in attracting them through the installation of birdhouses and by allowing barn swallows to nest in our barn. Part of the property has been left feral, especially along the creek, to provide habitat. Many of our plantings such as chokecherry, black currant, sunflowers and native flowers are there specifically to provide bird forage.
“Since the early days of our market garden when insect pressure was much greater, we have seen a steady decrease in insect pressure as the resident birds have become more numerous and diverse. One example is flea beetles. Initially our kale patch had to be covered to protect it. It has now been several years since our kale planting has required any protection. We have also noted that other problems such as cabbage moth, and many of the orchard moth complex, have been effectively managed by our intact and functional ecosystem. The birds are an essential component of that ecosystem. We continue to encourage their residency and presence, and plan to continue adding birdhouses and beneficial plantings. They are also a joy to behold and the appearance and disappearance of each species each year is a calendar of the year’s progress. (At the time of writing) the tree swallows have finished choosing their birdhouses and are busy mating atop the pole the houses are mounted on while the barn swallows have just returned.”
In recent years, we’ve seen some extreme and distressing weather in the Ottawa Valley and Southeastern Ontario: derechos, tornados, wildfires, ice storms, droughts, torrential rains, flash floods, sustained extreme heatwaves. Clearly, as the United Nations says, we are in a “climate crisis,” the effects of which have taken a very real toll on our comfort, health and safety.
Cam Allen and Paul Zammit, the authors of Fragile Shelters — Surviving a Climate Crisis: How to Protect Your Home, are mindful of this. Indeed, they see an urgent need to help.
“We wrote the book to try and be part of the solution,” says Zammit.
The key aims of the book are to educate — to a degree, of course, as the book is a fairly-slim 210 pages — and to offer guidance to homeowners who are looking to make their homes safer, more comfortable, and climate-resilient.
“The times we are living in can be very overwhelming on so many levels,” Zammit admits. “However, when it comes to safeguarding one’s home against a collision of climate extremes, I believe mitigating the impact starts with educating oneself.”
The next important thing, he says, is sketching out a plan. “Both to identify what might be coming your way — be it fire, water, or temperature extremes — but also focusing on the best place to spend your time and budget in resisting them. Ultimately this approach will best fit your situation and make your home safer and more comfortable.”
Zammit, who has worked in the building industry for over thirty years, has extensive experience in heritage and sustainable construction. His specialty is in “green buildings.” Notably, Zammit helped completely renovate the Fall River Restaurant in Maberly. Once restored, it was celebrated as “Canada’s Greenest Restaurant.”
He has known his co-author Cam Allen for nearly thirty years. The two friends have also worked together extensively in the past. Allen, now retired, spent over forty years in home building, heritage renovation, and project management. He also spent twenty years writing two weekly columns in the House Extra weekend section of the Kingston Whig-Standard. One column addressed readers’ questions about home repairs and renovations, while the other (called “Green Tech — The Series”) focused on sustainable living and green building practices.
When it comes to the climate crisis and adapting one’s home for a sustainable future, Zammit and Allen know what they’re talking about.
The first chapter of Fragile Shelters is dedicated to heat — understanding it and learning to build for it.
When it comes to adapting older homes — and there are a lot of those in the Ottawa Valley — to rising temperatures, Zammit says there is a lot to consider.
“Heat penetrating your home comes in numerous ways,” he points out, “but also remember the conditioned air you paid good money for is escaping as well.”
He recommends homeowners start by “sealing up all suspected leaks.”
“Then call a specialist for an Energy Audit/Blower Door Test, which will identify what needs to be addressed. A good auditor will educate you on this,” he says. “For future planning, consider better performance materials when renovating or upgrading, such as lighter coloured, heat-reflective shingles, proper roof ventilation, awnings, shade trees, and of course a properly balanced HVAC system.”
The book, which includes lots of photos, easy-to-read charts, graphs, and informative drawings and photo illustrations, goes into much more detail about these options.
Given that wildfire smoke and increased temperatures have many people increasingly concerned about air quality, there is an entire chapter in Fragile Shelters devoted to the matter.
“This is a much bigger issue than most think,” says Zammit, “as it can come at you when you are nowhere near a fire and your health and safety is subject to the way the wind blows — and who knows what particulates it is carrying.”
To protect your home and ensure your indoor air is healthier, Zammit says it’s best to listen to an HVAC specialist. “A proper-sized air handler and filtration to suit will very much address the air quality in one’s home,” he adds.
To me, one of the most interesting parts of Fragile Shelters was the section on “sustainable alternatives,” namely something I’d never heard of before — a straw bale home. “They turn a waste product into a carbon-capturing building material with almost zero carbon footprint and in fact represent carbon sequestering,” the book informs us.
Zammit, who built one of the first timber frame-straw commercial buildings in Ontario, believes straw bale homes are “ideal.”
“Not to discount other materials, as there are good ones out there,” he says. “Straw for me checks all the boxes. It’s fireproof, soundproof, earthquake proof; a great insulator that’s cheap and readily available; it’s also a carbon reducer, no off gassing, and so on, to say nothing of what it doesn’t do when compared to normal building materials and their carbon footprints.”
It has not been embraced by the building community, he notes, so it’s still an outlier in building methodologies.
“Having said that, it is making some headway,” Zammit says, “although not readily available in forms of structural materials, sheeting and insulation. We can only hope the industry sees the attributes in this material. Imagine not having to cut down trees to build a house.”
The bottom line as outlined in Fragile Shelters: taking smart, green steps can save homeowners money on energy costs, while making their homes safer and more comfortable — whatever potentially dangerous weather the global climate crisis brings our way.
“By looking at, and taking responsibility for, our energy consumption,” Zammit asserts, “we can better the quality of life and comfort in our homes and at the same time we can reduce our costs. So we reduce our energy consumption and contributions to climate crisis, and we reduce our monthly costs for energy and increase our comfort and safety within — at the same time readying and hardening our fragile shelters.”
“Our predicament is a complicated one,” he adds, “where everything matters and everything is at risk, so everything should be considered. However, and without a doubt, this can be a transformative time to make the right choices, for us all.”
After all, he points out, “Better climate resistant homes can and are being built every day.”
Fragile Shelters — Surviving a Climate Crisis: How to Protect Your Home can be purchased from <fragileshelters.com> and at your local bookstores.
The Friends of Mississippi Mills Library 4th annual online auction, The Best of Mississippi Mills, opens for bidding on June 9 and continues until June 20. If you haven’t already found it, you can view the auction site now. This is your chance to look at the local services available and put a heart beside any that speak to you. Then you’ll be ready when June 9 rolls around. Visit the site at <32auctions.com/FMMPL2025>.
We are very excited about this year’s auction. We have 107 local businesses and organizations who have donated services, more than we have ever had, and that number is expected to rise a little before the auction bidding starts. This year we have worked hard to keep it fresh. We approached businesses that were popular in previous years, and we reached out to new businesses. Of the 107, thirty-four entries feature businesses and organizations who have not donated in the past.
We are very grateful to the local businesses and organizations who have chosen to offer their services through the auction. It is wonderful for us as they are all very willing to support our fundraiser. In return, the auction provides exposure and free advertising for our donors, and an opportunity for us all to support local.
Ultimately our library benefits as the funds raised are used to support library programs such as a Fine-Free Library, the purchase and installation of a Self-Checkout System at the Almonte branch, and a Booking Management System. Now it is your turn to show your support for our local businesses and organizations, and for our vibrant Library. Happy bidding!
Any questions? Contact Barbara Carroll at <friends@missmillslibrary.com>.
Two new exhibitions are running from May 31 to July 4 at Almonte’s Sivarulrasa Gallery.
Susan Tooke: Hooked runs in Gallery I. This exhibition features the Nova Scotia-based artist’s paintings and fibre art inspired by the East Coast wilderness. “Inspired by wilderness and motivated by the continued degradation of the environment, my work is focused on the celebration of the natural world”, she says. Based in the Annapolis Valley, Susan’s hooked rugs are inspired by her grandmother’s rug hooking tools as well as the long tradition of rug hooking in Nova Scotia. The imagery in these fibre art works is a further abstraction of shapes and patterns found in her landscape paintings. The title of the show Hooked references both the hooked rugs and the artist’s deep attachment to natural spaces.
Karen Haines: Local Produce runs in Gallery III. The exhibition features seven new works in oil, inspired by locally grown produce from her neighbourhood near Edmonton, Alberta. Karen has been drawing from her earliest memories and began her studio practice in oils in 2002. “My creative practice seeks to explore the connections between life, science, and the greater mysteries of the cosmos”, she says. “I intuit that the answers I seek lie in examination of the everyday; those things perceived as mundane.” In this new body of work, the artist emphasizes her connection to her local environment and reminds the viewer of the magic in the ordinary.
The gallery is located at 34 Mill Street in Almonte. For more information, visit <sivarulrasa.com>.
The Lanark Lit Festival of Writing continues to the end of June, and Almonte Readers & Writers (ARW) are looking forward to sharing all that this last packed month of writerly activities is bringing to the community. On June 19 at 6:30pm we will present our last delve — In close conversation with writers event of the season featuring Perth’s Amanda West Lewis and Tim Wynne-Jones. Join in the fun as they share stories and insights about their lives as writers and how they have continued to inspire, support and encourage each other — and make dinner too — over many years together. This is sure to be a celebratory and personal look at dedication to craft, and to each other.
Alongside other June workshops in both Almonte and Perth to round out the festival, not to mention an Open Mic event at Jazzy’s Brewhaus in Perth on June 26, ARW recently launched the call for submissions period for the second Lanark Lit Writing Competition (the deadline for submissions is September 30) in two age-categories. This year’s focus is non-fiction, including but not limited to literary journalism, memoir, personal essay, lyric essay, humour writing, travel writing, and flash non-fiction. See competition details at <almontereadersandwriters.org>.
In support of writers who want a refresh, to build new skills, or even those looking to create a new work to enter in the contest, we have announced two non-fiction writing workshops happening in June. For youth, Westport’s Krista Foss will be leading a free 2-session workshop titled Telling It like It Is: Non-fiction for Young Writers at the Perth Library on June 4 and 12 from 4:30–6:30pm (pre-registration required). For adults, author and facilitator Parrish Wilson is teaching a 2-session online workshop titled Truth Matters: The Why and How of Non-Fiction Writing, which will be offered at a pay-what-you-can rate on June 18 and 25 from 6–8pm.
June is the last month of the inaugural Lanark Lit Festival of Writing, and we couldn’t be happier with the expressions of support and wonderful participation by all the local writers over these last few months. The dedication and openness of our featured festival writers, and the quality of the teaching by the guest facilitators, have brought opportunities to see, in real time, the joy that attendees get from creating new work and sharing the stories that they have crafted. We have also witnessed connections being made between writers, such as a writer finding a mentor or getting feedback on their work. We believe it is engagements like these that ultimately help writers bring their stories to light, not to mention the presence of readers/listeners as another element that is so valuable for writers and storytellers.
It was just before we launched this new festival that we heard the unfortunate news that the long-standing Kingston WritersFest was ending after this year’s event. This came as a tough blow to many, as it has been a place for Canadian writers to share work, connect and build skills. We do hope that our local offerings can fill some of what writers have lost from this change.
In recent years, we have all seen creative writing, poetry especially, make an appearance in seemingly the most unexpected of situations. When the world is changing faster than ever, poetry and paying close attention to each other’s stories can slow us down and tune us into each other. This is one of the reasons we think creative writers and writing are more important than ever. Another aspect we are extremely proud of at Almonte Readers & Writers is that this year (only our second year running) we have been able to pay competitive artist fees to all the invited literary artists. Art = Work, after all, and that belief runs deep in the foundation of this non-for profit.
We hope to see you at this month’s events and activities! Join our mailing list at <lanarklitfestival.org>.
The first annual Landscape Artist of the Year event is coming to the Ottawa Valley! This free, plein air, amateur artist competition for children and adults is an initiative led by volunteers of Greater Madawaska Township. It will take place on Saturday, July 19 from 10am to 2pm at Barnet Park. This beautiful park borders Calabogie Lake and has lots of interesting views to inspire landscape art.
The MC / hosts are fibre artist Christine Johnson and her partner James Murray. There will be four local professional artist as the judges; Richard Gill from Burnstown, Scott Rubie and Dwyene MacNabb from Calabogie, and Kathy Haycock from Eganville. All are very prominent professional landscape artists, and organizers are thrilled to have them as the judges! This contest is for amateur artists (which means that you’re not bringing in an income from your artwork). There will be four categories: adults, high school students, grades 4–8, and JK to grade 3.
The competition is open to whatever size, materials, and style of landscape art participants wish to create. For example, you could paint on canvas or paper or wood panel, printing, fibre arts, mixed media… so many possibilities! Participants are required to bring their own materials and set-up (e.g. easel and chair). The stipulation is that it is created on-site between the hours of 10am and 2pm on the day of the competition. Prizes will be gift certificates from local businesses, and of course bragging rights. For those not able to supply their own art materials, there will be a table set up with art supplies donated by the Treehouse Art Studio. In case of rain, the event will be moved to the following day, Sunday, July 20. Please pre-register at <greatermadawaska.com>.
Whether you are a seasoned amateur or a budding young artist, this event is a fun and inspiring way to connect with nature, the arts and the local community.
So Ottawa Valley, let’s roll up our sleeves, take out our art supplies and get creative!
Art… and Soul
Lorrie Potvin creates highly imaginative metal sculptures from scrap metal that she can’t resist collecting everywhere she goes. Her spontaneous response to “Why?” is that she can’t look at anything without imagining a way in which it could be repurposed. So discarded forks and chopped up harrow disks and metal vegetable strainer pieces are combined with a career-long collection of metal automotive scraps to become original sculptures in her professionally trained hands.
Potvin’s imagination knows no bounds, and her sculptures range from endearing owls to gleaming, geometric wall hangings and intricately patterned large garden globes. She explains that when she looks at a jumble of metal shapes spread on a counter or thrown in a box, she immediately visualizes a plethora of 3-D possibilities. Her current wide-ranging collection of repurposed metal scraps will be on view at the annual Art in the Garden show this Father’s Day weekend at Kiwi Gardens (687 Harper Road near Perth). Gardeners beware — one of Lorrie’s sculptures may well be an irresistible addition to your botanical display.
Rusted Development
That’s the name she gives her metal art. But the more I learn about her tumultuous life, the more I suspect she is playing with the phrase “Arrested Development.” A quick search tells me “In psychology, arrested development refers to a situation where an individual’s emotional or psychological growth is halted or delayed. This can occur due to various factors such as trauma, neglect, or other significant life events…” Lorrie has written two books that chronicle her astounding history of surviving and overcoming trauma, abuse, and significant life events.
Potvin’s first book is titled First Gear. It was written in 2015 under her previous name, Lorrie Jorgensen. It is a “Motorcycle Memoir” chronicling her road trip on Thelma D. (her beloved 2009 Harley-Davidson) from Ottawa to Winnipeg and back. She had bought herself a Harley when she turned fifty, was living with Multiple Sclerosis, and still processing her tumultuous upbringing with an abusive father, alcoholic mother, and sexual identity issues of her own. Her second book, Horses in the Sand, was written in 2022 under the name she only claimed after she learned via DNA testing that the man who had sexually tormented her was not her biological father.
The back cover of Horses in the Sand describes her second book as “… a collection of stories that document a queer Métis woman’s journey from her sparse beginnings as a child to becoming a tradeswoman, teacher, and artist… the stories describe what it was like to grow up as a girl who was starkly different… and how ‘coming out’ became a lifelong process of self-acceptance and changing identities.” It also tells the story of how she finally discovered who her birth father was, and that she belonged to “an Indigenous community whose presence she had always felt but to which she never knew she belonged.” In our June 2022 issue we published a review by Rena Upitis, the Founding Director at Wintergreen Studios and Professor Emerita at Queen’s University <thehumm.com/online/article.cfm?articleid=3168>.
Writing the books helped a child who “never believed she’d be good enough.” When she was seventeen her mom had given her $20 and a suitcase, and Lorrie hitchhiked from her home in Deep River to Ottawa. She spent two years as a secretary and quit to become a dishwasher. At 21 she got a job in an auto body shop in Manotick. She asked to become an auto body repair apprentice and had to go to school at Algonquin College. She is frequently taken for a man, and was in trade school for a full week, worrying about which restroom to use, before she had to tell the instructor she was a woman — the first in their program. When she got her trade license her marks garnered her the Inter-Provincial Red Seal in Autobody Repair and Refinishing. She became the first woman to work at the Municipal Garage Complex of the City of Ottawa, and she still enjoys the memory of backing huge fire trucks into the garage bays.
After several years with the City, Algonquin College offered her an instructor position teaching her trade in the Autobody Repair and Refinishing program, the same program she had graduated from years earlier. A few years later she began teaching in the automotive section of a new program — Women in Trades and Technology (WITT).
After eleven years at the College, Potvin applied to the Technological Education program at Queen’s University and was one of 28 students accepted out of 300 applicants. That decision probably saved her life. After three weeks as a student at Queen’s, she became completely sober for the first time since she had started drinking and smoking at the age of thirteen. She also got a personal trainer, lost a lot of weight, gave up smoking, and started eating vegetables instead of sweets. Ironically, she also developed terrifying tingling in her feet and legs. She continues to handle her eventual diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis as just another obstacle to overcome.
She continued her education at Queen’s, earning a Special Education Specialist post-graduate certificate. She then taught high school shop classes for eight years before taking a medical retirement. In her words, “It really was a full circle moment — I wasn’t allowed to take shop in high school, and now I’ve become a shop teacher.”
On her exceptionally thorough and rewarding website at <lorriepotvin.ca>, she describes herself as “a queerishly two-spirited Métis…” She doesn’t mention that she has a wonderful sense of humour. Her description of dealing with bras after losing weight had me laughing out loud. In her memoir she writes, “To my delight… I found that I can arrange my breasts and nipples in various positions when wearing a sports bra… I’ve also come to realize that regardless of the time you spend… it never lasts, and after ten minutes my breasts are smooshed into a uni-boob and my nipples are cross-eyed.” Oh yeah.
Since her retirement, Lorrie is spending more time pursuing her arts career in her well-equipped shop at the ideal country home near Perth that she shares with her wife, Paula Robert. When she isn’t in her shop, she is hard at work on her writing career. She loves mysteries, and this past December her upcoming novel titled A Trails’ Tears won the 2024 Pride Award honouring her as an emerging crime writer within the LGBTQIA+ community. The award, made by Sisters in Crime, states, “A Trail’s Tears follows the stories of two women who are strangers to each other — youth wellness worker Grace, who’s looking for Sonny, a missing Indigenous teen mom, and Anna, a street-smart young woman caught in the trap of human trafficking and desperate to escape.” Potvin’s website has also just announced that the Crime Writers of Canada have selected her unpublished novel as a finalist for their prestigious 2025 Awards of Excellence. The award winner will be announced on May 30 — just after our deadline — we wish you the best, Lorrie!!
Epilogue: Meeting Lorrie Potvin and learning about her life has affected me profoundly. She completely changed my “old fart” reaction to tattoos. More importantly, she opened my eyes a little wider to the incredible diversity and adversity that our fellow humans experience in their lives. I highly recommend her website and some time spent with her short stories as a very enjoyable empathy expansion exercise.
Artist Trading Card
Who Lorrie Potvin
What Artist, Author, Tradeswoman and Teacher
Where <lorriepotvin.ca/artstuff>; <lorrie.potvin@gmail.com>
When June 13-15 (Father’s Day Weekend), Kiwi Gardens Art in the Garden, <kiwigardens.ca/rusted-development>, 687 Harper Road, Perth; October 11 & 12, Perth Studio Tour, Bridget O’Flaherty’s Studio, 988 Brooke Valley Road, Perth
Why “I create because I can’t help but visualize the hidden potential of scrap metal and what it can become.”
For the entire month of June, there will be an art show on display at the MERA Schoolhouse. This exhibition by members of the MERA Art Circle is called “A Circle of Art”. Everyone is invited to the show’s opening event on June 8.
The MERA Art Circle is a group of local artists that meets at the Schoolhouse on Friday mornings. It is a time and place to share art, ideas and friendship. Some people come every week, and some only rarely. Occasionally they may have a workshop, but mostly they do their own work, each artist bringing their unique offerings to the group. Each year, they are delighted to present a show of work on the walls of Dean Hall. New and original members of the vibrant MERA Art Circle invite you to enjoy their art of various styles and media in Dean Hall.
Come to the MERA Schoolhouse in McDonalds Corners (974 Dalhousie Concession 9a) on Sunday, June 8 from 2-4pm to meet the artists, view their works and purchase that “must have” piece. To arrange to see the exhibition at other times, contact Timothy Booth at <timothybooth9@gmail.com>.
You may have seen the classic CBC Canadian Heritage Minute in which a woman collapses after smelling burnt toast. Dr. Wilder Penfield is the surgeon who appears in scrubs in the next scene, poking around in her brain to discover the source of her seizures, and eventually winning world-wide acclaim for discovering treatments for epilepsy. And while he won major awards and accolades and has one of the most beautiful boulevards in Montreal named in his honour, he did not accomplish his work alone. His medical partner and longtime friend was working in his shadow, in operating rooms and at patient bedsides. Their intriguing friendship and collaboration is brought to light in The Mind Mappers, a new biography by Globe and Mail reporter Eric Andrew-Gee, who will be sharing their story at the Almonte Library on Thursday, June 5 at 6:30pm.
Then on Saturday, June 14 at 2pm, in support of the Almonte Seed Library, you will be treated to a special presentation by The Seed Farmer, aka Dan Brisebois, a founding farmer at the very popular Tourne-Sol cooperative farm in Les Cedres, Quebec. Dan runs the Farmer Spreadsheet Academy, and blogs about farming and seeds at <danbrisebois.com>. He will share excerpts from his new book and explore how and why growing your own seeds can help you break free from unreliable supply chains, adapt to your unique climate, and deepen your connection to your garden. You’ll hear stories from the field, practical insights for harvesting seed from your home garden, and a vision for how gardeners can play a key role in building sustainable local food systems — one seed at a time. A Q&A and informal discussion will follow the reading.
These events are organized by Mill Street Books, in collaboration with the Almonte Branch of the Mississippi Mills Public Library. Registration is required at <missmillslibrary.com>. Books will be available for sale and signing at the events, or you can pick them up at the bookstore anytime.
Finally, stay tuned for the return of Waldo in July, and follow Mill Street Books on social media to learn about their two book clubs and be first to find out about fall events!
Get out your running shoes and get moving! Join your fellow Mississippi Millians and get active in the month of June to become Canada’s Most Active Community and win the $100,000 Grand Prize! If Mississippi Mills is successful, the award will go toward recreational programming in our community.
The Town is coordinating this group effort online at <mississippimills.ca/explore-and-play/participaction-community-challenge>. They will update the page with information about activities being planned for the month of June. If you or your group or organization want to plan an activity, email <events@mississippimills.ca> and they will add it to the list and promote it on their social media pages.
You can take an Individual Pledge to Get Active by registering at <participaction.com/individual-pledge>. Groups or organizations can sign up at <participaction.com/signup> and register their activities during the month of June. You only need to input the number of participants. It’s fast and easy to do!
Mississippi Mills Mayor Christa Lowry says: “I encourage all residents to join us in the Particip-ACTION Community Challenge this June. There are so many ways to get involved, whether through fun events planned, participating in local sports clubs or simple morning walks with your dog. The ultimate reward is a more active community here in Mississippi Mills!”
Individuals, groups and organizations are all grouped by postal code. All registered activities in Mississippi Mills go toward this goal. It takes a community working together to win the Grand Prize, so get out, participate in an activity, play a sport, get walking, and register!
Nestled in the picturesque Lanark Highlands of Eastern Ontario, down a winding garden path in the historic hamlet of Elphin, lies a musical sanctuary that has been capturing the hearts of bluegrass enthusiasts for a decade now. Old School Bluegrass Camp is celebrating its triumphant 10th anniversary, offering an unforgettable five-day summer camp experience for adults from July 2–6.
Under the guidance of renowned folk musician and award-winning singer-songwriter Jenny Whiteley, along with Site Supervisor and Camp Chef Joey Wright, Old School has evolved into a magnetic hub for bluegrass enthusiasts from all over. This year’s anniversary celebration brings an exceptional lineup of world-class musicians from the vibrant bluegrass scene, each with decades of performance and teaching experience. These instructors will lead instrument classes, guide band labs, lead workshops, and perform exclusive private concerts designed specifically for campers. The instructor-to-student ratio ensures personal attention and meaningful musical growth for every participant.
Old School Camp carefully cultivates a supportive environment where musicians of many skill levels can thrive, grow, and form lasting connections. You may be a seasoned picker with years of experience or just starting to grow on your musical journey. Old School provides a comprehensive range of immersive learning opportunities like:
Daily instrument classes with expert instructors, focusing on technique, theory, and style development.
Immersive band labs where you’ll form and perform in your own group, complete with professional coaching and performance opportunities.
Dynamic nightly jams and intimate concerts featuring both instructors and student performances.
Spontaneous and inspiring impromptu sessions.
Welcoming slow-jams and song circles perfect for building confidence and repertoire.
Personalized one-on-one instruction opportunities with master bluegrass pickers.
Special workshops on vocal harmony, applicable music theory, and traditional bluegrass techniques.
Collaborative learning sessions focused on arrangement and ensemble playing.
Your immersive camp experience includes everything you need for a comfortable and inspiring stay, including fresh, chef-prepared meals accommodating all dietary requirements; modern, clean, private washroom facilities and hot showers; spacious camping areas; secure instrument storage; potable well water available throughout the grounds; and comfortable indoor and outdoor practice spaces.
When you come out to Old School Bluegrass Camp, you’re not just investing in yourself — you’re becoming part of a vibrant community tradition. Your participation supports Canadian small business, contributes to the local arts economy, and helps preserve and advance the bluegrass tradition while creating lasting connections in the passionate bluegrass community. They may play old music, but they’ve got new ideas! Join them for this milestone 10th anniversary celebration and become part of their growing musical family.
For more information, pricing and registration, please visit <oldschoolcamps.ca>.
Hollywood headliners and social media sensations Ted and Marion Outerbridge are bringing their world-renowned illusions back to the Ottawa Valley! Their critically acclaimed, family-friendly show Outerbridge Magic — Mysteries of the Keyhole House, will run Saturdays at 2pm from June 7 to August 30 at The Pews in Merrickville. Tickets are available now at <outerbridgemagic.com>.
What happens when two of Canada’s master illusionists move into a century-old house that’s rumoured to be haunted? Join the Outerbridges — fresh from mesmerizing audiences at Hollywood’s Magic Castle — as they blend their family-friendly illusions with a spine-tingling true tale that’s captivated over 30 million viewers worldwide.
This isn’t just another magic show. It’s an unforgettable journey into the unexplained, where every illusion adds to the mystery, and unlocking secrets only leads to deeper questions. The hallmarks of Outerbridge performances include cutting-edge theatrical illusion, world-class dance, and high energy magical adventure alongside a compelling narrative that will leave the entire family spellbound.
Ted Outerbridge has been performing professionally since 1982, and has been featured in theatres from coast to coast and on both sides of the Atlantic, where he set box office records with his tours Illusions, Magician Extraordinaire, Magical Moments in Time, and The Time Capsule Tour. Ted has done everything from materializing Fortune 500 executives to consulting for Cirque du Soleil. He has made over 100 television appearances, from MuchMusic to The Discovery Channel’s Mystery Hunters, as well as his own TV special Magic with Ted Outerbridge. Ted and Marion began their journey together 25 years ago and together they have headlined across the globe and received honours from performing arts presenters rarely achieved in the magic industry.
Marion’s mastery of ballet, jazz, character dance and tap has led to a career as a dancer and choreographer with world-class dance companies around the globe. As a result, she speaks five languages fluently — sometimes all at the same time! Marion made her film début in The Whole Nine Yards and has since appeared in numerous films and television productions including White House Down, Warm Bodies, and Barney’s Version.
Don’t miss this summer’s performances by these “Masters of Illusion” (CBC Radio), and “Champions of Magic” (Bergedorfer Zeitung, Germany)! The Pews is located at 100 St. Lawrence Street in Merrickville, and the show runs for approximately 100 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission). Tickets and details are all available at <outerbridgemagic.com>.
The Lanark County Quilters Guild (LCQG) will be hosting its biennial Quilts on the Tay quilt show on Friday, July 11 and Saturday, July 12 at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre, located at 71 Cornelia St. W. Show times are 10am to 5pm both days.
The LCQG was formed in 1990 and held several smaller events before hosting its first Quilts on the Tay in 1998 at the Perth Community Centre. One hundred and forty-five traditional and contemporary quilts were displayed and awards given in several categories.
This year, with over 250 traditional and contemporary quilts, fibre art projects, wall hangings and other quilted items on display, Quilts on the Tay promises to be a colourful and exciting event. There will also be 15 vendors selling fabric and quilting notions, a boutique selling quilts handcrafted by members, door prizes, and a Quilter’s Café where you can sit and have a coffee or lunch with friends.
Admission to the show is $10 (cash only) at the door, and children under 12 years are admitted free of charge.
Bus and group tours are welcome, and arrangements can be made in advance to help avoid long wait lines on arrival. If you have any questions or wish to make group arrival arrangements, please email <lanarkcountyquilters@gmail.com>. See you at the show!
This Canada Day weekend, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Eastern Ontario with the Rideau Lakes Studio Tour, a celebrated event showcasing the region’s most talented creators. Taking place on June 28 and 29, the tour invites visitors to explore more than 13 working studios where artists will open their doors to share their creative worlds.
Nestled in the stunning landscape of the Rideau Lakes region, this self-guided tour offers a unique blend of art, nature and community. Whether you’re an avid art collector, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a refreshing way to spend the holiday weekend, the Studio Tour promises an unforgettable experience.
From painters and sculptors to weavers, beaders, potters, carvers and glass artists, the tour highlights a diverse range of artistic disciplines. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to meet the artists, watch live demonstrations, and even purchase original artwork directly from the source.
“Glass creating is science meets art, and the techniques I use are unique,” says hot glass and fine art creator Barbara Osborne-Monaghan of DreamscapesRideau. “The Studio Tour gives me a chance to share my process and connect with visitors in a meaningful way.”
But the Rideau Lakes Studio Tour is more than an art exhibition — it’s a celebration of community and place. As guests travel from studio to studio, they’ll enjoy breathtaking views of lakes and countryside, discover local food and drink, and meet the warm, welcoming people who make this region so special.
This annual tradition, now celebrating over 25 years of artistic excellence, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to start or expand your art collection, learn about the creative process, or simply enjoy a beautiful weekend getaway, this tour is a must-visit.
Plan your route and learn more at <rideaulakes-studiotour.ca>. Come for the art, stay for the experience — and discover the heart of creativity in the Rideau Lakes.
Mark your calendars and plan to visit the beautiful Madawaska Valley from August 8–10. That’s when the Killaloe Craft Fair returns — a beloved summer tradition that’s been bringing artists, musicians, and the community together for nearly 50 years. Three fun-filled days of connection, laughter and music drifting under starry skies. Whether you’ve joined in before or this is your very first visit, you’ll find a welcoming celebration of creativity, local talent, and the simple joys of getting together.
Live Music and DJs
This year’s festival boasts an eclectic mix of performers, from the electrifying sounds of JUNO Award-winning DJ Bear Witness and soulful blues from Suzie Vinnick, to high-energy grooves by the Wassabi Collective and The Oscillators. Enjoy dynamic sets from Smokey Sundaze, indie favourite Fliss, the jazzy stylings of Tell it to Sweeney, and the ska-infused rhythms of K Man and the 45s. No matter your taste, there’s a beat for everyone — so get ready to dance all weekend long!
Art and Workshops
When you’re not grooving in the grass, stroll through rows of artisan booths and discover one-of-a-kind jewellery, hand-made pottery, handwoven textiles and so much more. Meet the makers and find the meaningful keepsake you didn’t know you needed!
Don’t miss the diverse lineup of workshops happening throughout the weekend. Whether you want to pick up a new skill, get creative, or simply have fun, there’s something for everyone. Embrace your natural rhythm at the all-inclusive drum circle, chart your stars in astrology workshops, or join a guided walk beneath ancient trees.
Kids’ Parade, Food and More
One of the weekend’s highlights is the much-loved Children’s Parade. Watch as kids create costumes, dance with joy, and wind their way from one side of the fairgrounds to the other. It’s a delightful parade of colour and laughter spreading smiles and energy throughout the fair!
When you need to refuel your fairy festival energy, indulge at the handpicked food booths, all offering mouth-watering, locally-sourced treats.
Don’t miss a thing! RVs, tent campers, and everyone in between — you’re welcome to spend the night (or two!) soaking up every last moment of magic right on-site.
Save money by getting your tickets in advance — find them at <killaloefair.ca>.
Lace up your tap shoes — or at least your comfiest theatre-going attire! Beginning on July 3 and continuing to July 13, Studio Theatre Perth will be presenting Stepping Out — a heartwarming comedy by Richard Harris. First performed in 1984, the play is about a group of mismatched adults attending a weekly tap-dancing class in a local church hall. With a blend of humour and poignancy, it delves into the personal struggles and triumphs of its diverse characters — eight women and one man — each grappling with their insecurities, relationships and dreams. The dance class, led by the patient but firm Mavis, a former professional dancer, becomes a metaphor for their efforts to “step out” of their everyday limitations.
Like the original 1984 West End production, many of the cast have little training in dance. Fortunately, the production has a performer in Chrystine Williams who is cast as Mavis, the troop instructor, and is also doing the real choreographing for the show. “It’s busy because I have to work on the show in terms of the choreography and work on my character,” states Williams. “It kind of gels together because Mavis is the dance instructor and the choreographer in the show.”
As with many productions of Stepping Out, the cast enters the show with a range of prior dance experience. Cynthia Struthers, who plays Vera, had the good fortune of attended the Stockholm International Tap Dance Festival in April. Struthers explains: “It was very well organized and there were classes according to what level you were at. It was exhausting.”
What makes Stepping Out particularly captivating is its relatability. Everyone in the audience can see a piece of themselves in one — or many — of the characters. From the timid newcomer to the movement-challenged and the shy widower, there are plenty of characters to root for as they go through the play.
The rehearsal process was generously aided by Omnes Art Circle, who let their facility be used for tap lessons. In a way, rehearsals emulated the learning process the characters take on their way to putting on a show at the end. The production also appreciated the use of St. Paul’s United Church for additional rehearsal space.
Stepping Out offers more than just a night at the theatre — it’s a celebration of perseverance, friendship, and the unifying power of dance. Directed with flair and warmth by Jane Stott, this staging ensures that the laughs land, the steps sparkle, and the characters shine.
To attend Stepping Out, you can reserve through Tickets Please (TicketsPlease.ca, 485-6434) or through the Studio Theatre Perth box office (267-7469). Evening performances are at 7:30pm on July 3, 4, 10 and 11, while 2pm matinées are on July 5, 6, 12 and 13. Discount rates apply for opening night and for patrons under 30 at any performance. Don’t delay — book your tickets now.
Stepping Out is a must-see. It’s a play that proves you don’t have to be perfect to be spectacular!
The Stewart Park Festival returns from July 18–20 for its 34th year of music, community, and celebration — and organizers are thrilled to announce the first wave of performers! This initial lineup features 14 incredible artists, from beloved local acts to acclaimed international talents. As always, this by-donation festival brings world-class music to the stunning Stewart Park and Crystal Palace in downtown Perth, Ontario.
But this is just the beginning — stay tuned for more artist announcements, the full weekend schedule, and details on the vibrant marketplace vendors still to come.
The 2025 Stewart Park Festival performers include Great Lake Swimmers, Joel Plaskett, Quique Escamilla, Ray Bonneville, Blackburn Brothers, Lloyd Spiegel, Night Sun, Kelly McMichael, Rube and Rake, Buffalo Rose, Jessica Pearson, Matthew Barber, Garçons à marier, and Serge Monette — with more to come!
Stewart Park Festival isn’t just a concert — it’s a celebration of community, creativity and generosity. With a full weekend of live music, local food & drink, an artisan market and family-friendly fun, this festival has something for everyone.
Culture belongs to all of us — and this festival is proof. Thanks to the Stewart Park Festival Committee, a dedicated volunteer team, and incredible community partners, Stewart Park Festival remains a by-donation event, ensuring everyone can experience the joy of live music regardless of their financial means.
Donations help fund performances, cover production costs, and keep the festival open to all. Suggested contributions of $25 or more are welcomed (with tax receipts available), and donation stations will be set up throughout the park all weekend. You can also donate online at <stewartparkfestival.com>.
This summer, come be part of a vibrant tradition where music meets community in the heart of heritage Perth.
The Perth Citizens’ Band, Canada’s oldest continuing town band, is preparing for the 2025 season of its annual Summer/Fall Pops Concert Series. These concerts in the downtown core have been a longstanding tradition of the band for well over 100 years. They feature a variety of music ranging from classical, Broadway and movie themes to jazz, rock, blues and other popular forms; a bit of music for all tastes and ages. In addition, conductor Brian Tackaberry includes heritage pieces from the band’s historic files as well as songs by Canadian composers or arrangers. The first Perth town band was established in 1850 and this year marks 175 years of making music in Perth and area.
The concerts will all be held on Sundays at 2pm at the Crystal Palace, located on the Tay River basin in downtown Perth, and take place rain or shine. The dates for the concerts are June 8, July 6, July 27, August 17, September 7 and October 5. Some seating is available, but audience members are invited to bring along a lawn chair or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river basin during the performances.
In addition, the band will be performing at the North Lanark Regional Museum’s annual Strawberry Festival in Appleton on Sunday, June 22 at 2pm, and in downtown Newboro for Canada Day celebrations on July 1. For more information, visit <perthband.ca>.
The Ragged Flowers, Almonte’s “friendly neighbourhood purveyors of neo-psychedelic folk”, are marking twenty-five years since their début album Love to Burn. Having played such illustrious venues as Rasputin’s, the NAC Fourth Stage and The Blacksheep Inn, they are returning to one of their favourites — the Cedar Hill School House — for an intimate run of shows from June 20–22, and are launching a limited-edition double vinyl retrospective. As of press time the concerts are already sold out, but you can still pre-order the albums at TicketsPlease.ca (where you can also join the waiting list for the shows if you like). Since theHumm has an “in” with band manager Ruby Kincaid, we were able to wrangle an interview with all five cats (musically speaking, of course!)…
The Ragged Flowers have been around for a quarter-century! What are the key ingredients in your secret longevity sauce?
Rob Riendeau: It has been a long, strange trip! I think, fundamentally, it comes down to having immense amounts of respect for each other. The kind of respect that makes you question yourself instead of dismissing someone else’s idea that you disagree with at first. Creatively, that means trying out musical ideas — genuinely trying, full-heartedly — instead of saying “that will never work.” And, quite often, really great things happen. Also, we laugh with and at each other a lot! At this point, we’re really a band of brothers.
With such a long history and so much in your repertoire, how did you go about curating the selections on this new album?
Ian Douglas: Simple, we used an Etch-a-sketch. Actually, it was kind of a fun project. We took a little ramble through our musical garden to see which “flower” songs were swaying in the sunshine, ready to be picked. Naturally, our recent Flying Machine EP of six new songs made sense for Side One, but our 25-year retrospective Time Machine on Sides 2, 3, and 4 proved to be a bit more challenging.
We tried to pick 14 of our “signature” tunes and fan-favourites that somehow captured the Ragged Flowers vibe. It’s a bit hard to describe, but there’s a unique band “sound” that is recognizable: earthy, bright, & folky — with a curious “sixties” groove woven through, which is strange given we’re so young (wink, wink). I guess we’re caught in a Time Machine?
Here’s a little secret: when we were remastering the songs for vinyl, we did a bit of sonic pruning and added a few spices that attentive ears might notice. Finally, we wanted each of the four lead tracks to “catch” the ears of our listener and invite them into our rocket-ship! Overall, I think the album captures the joy of our unexpected musical journey.
Creating a double album gives you scope to play in a visual arts sandbox as well as a musical one. What was the appeal of this format, and what can fans expect to see?
Steve Reside: A double gatefold album felt like the perfect format for Flying Machine, not just musically but also as something you can hold, savour and step into. There’s something magical about vinyl: dropping the needle, unfolding the sleeve, sinking into the artwork. It turns listening into something more intentional. Less about pressing play and more about preparing for takeoff. The double LP gave us space to pair the new songs (Flying Machine) with reflections from our past (Time Machine), all wrapped in lyrics and visuals that invite the listener along for the ride. I guess it’s our version of a time-travelling road trip — where mom and dad sit you in the back seat, give you fun things to look at and listen to, and suggest you be quiet and enjoy the ride. Except we’re not asking you to sit back or be quiet.
The other members have been together for so long they may not recall, so this one goes to George. How did joining four creative collaborators impact or expand your musical horizons?
George Birchall: I had to learn what a “flower song” was. We use that term a lot, when talking through some song or idea that might work with the Flowers. I might come to rehearsal with a new song that I’m really excited about, and then learn that it’s not right for this group. It might be a great song, but there are a few key ingredients that tend to define a “flower song”. First off, it’s usually a song with a definite arrangement of different parts, so there’s a dynamic change between the beginning, middle, and end of the song. Next, it’s gotta be a bit weird — either lyrically, or musically, something to surprise us, and the audience. Last thing — group vocals. Most of our best songs have some good harmonies we can lean into.
I assume most bands have a leader, a real driver of the energy of the band. This band has five. It’s weird, and it requires very thoughtful communication to make sure everyone gets their itch scratched. But it works, really well, as I think it’s led to a lot of musical diversity.
I haven’t really answered your question yet, so let me try and be more direct.
The Flowers taught me a lot about what makes a song work. Having 4 creative powerhouses to lean on and take a song that’s good, and make it great — that’s why I do this. It’s one thing to write a song that works in your living room. It’s quite another to arrange it as a 5-piece band and bring enough dynamics and energy to it that it works in a concert hall. That’s rewarding.
As a long-term strategic thinker-type, what can people expect from the Ragged Flowers over the next 25 years, and how can they stay up to date on your plans?
Nathan Sloniowski: I’m glad you asked. The strategy involves deploying the inevitable vast profits from our double-vinyl album into a diversified portfolio within The Ragged Ventures Group that will in turn fund future recording projects.
To ensure our physical longevity, Rob will be leading Ragged Rejuvenation Inc., focused on induced pluripotent stem cells donated by Keith Richards and Willie Nelson, the current leaders in this area. On the business-to-consumer end of things, Steve is setting up supply chains for the RomperRoom Tambourine Co., employing the band’s growing population of grandchildren on product testing, while Ian’s covering off the fashion sector with Better Bandanas Pty. Ltd. in partnership with Stella McCartney.
George and I are running the back office, launching the IPOs and talking to the Carney trade team about where to locate the sunflower-shaped Ragged Research Campus for maximum nation-building potential. On where to find out more about the band or how to invest with us, <theraggedflowers.ca> is the place to take our risk tolerance survey. We will continue to engage our long-time skywriting team, the Psychedelic Tie-Dye Smokers, for larger announcements.
Anticipation is building as the cast and crew prepare to bring The Savannah Sipping Society to life on stage this June. Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, this heartwarming southern comedy promises an evening of laughter, reflection, and the healing power of friendship.
The production also marks an exciting milestone for Kathryn McKeigan, who will make her directorial début. While new to directing, McKeigan is a familiar face at The Station Theatre, having acted in multiple productions, served as an assistant director, and contributed her talents as head costumer. Her deep understanding of storytelling and character shines through in her thoughtful interpretation of the script.
Set in Savannah, Georgia, the play follows four women from very different backgrounds who are thrown together by fate — and an impromptu happy hour. As they open up about their lives, losses and dreams, they form a powerful bond that helps them face the next chapter with courage and laughter.
The talented cast includes Pat Hunter as Randa Covington, a workaholic perfectionist struggling to cope with sudden career upheaval; Wendy Monagle as Dot Haigler, a recent widow trying to rediscover who she is without her life-long partner; Elizabeth Stienberg as Marlafaye Mosley, a brassy Texas divorcée with a sharp tongue and a big heart; and Katharine Coleman as Jinx Jenkins, an energetic life coach with a flair for reinvention.
With rehearsals well underway, the production is shaping up to be a funny, heartfelt and life-affirming experience that celebrates the resilience of women and the unexpected power of friendship.
The play runs for seven performances over two weekends, with 7:30pm shows on June 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28; and 2pm Sunday shows on June 22 and 29. Station Theatre now offers seating selection when you order your tickets online at <smithsfallstheatre.com>. If you have season vouchers, just use the voucher code in your order. Orders can also be made at Special Greetings, 8 Russell Street East in Smiths Falls, Monday through Saturday from 9–5. You can also call the store at 283–2244. Adult tickets are $24, student tickets are $10. The full season of plays has something for every taste, so visit <smithsfallstheatre.com> to find out about what’s coming up at The Station Theatre.
Valley Voices, Almonte’s original community choir, invite you to our summer concert “Thank You for the Music”, a lively celebration of music and fun. On Sunday, June 8, we will be holding our annual June concert at the Almonte United Church. This year we are turning up the excitement with many songs you will know, as well as a few new favourites.
We are a small choir of great power, built on the strong base of the pre-pandemic Valley Voices who started singing together in 2002. Now in 2025 we are singing music that is a glorious challenge. We will be accompanied by the amazing Kathleen Deck. All the members have been working hard to make this the best concert yet. Instead of having a guest this year we are focusing on our multi-talented members themselves. We will have solos, poetry and so much more.
Tickets are available from Baker Bob’s, any choir member, or at the door. Doors will open at 7pm with the fun beginning at 7:30pm.
As we move into the summer, keep an eye out for us at Celtfest, and who knows where else we will surprise you. Follow us at <facebook.com/ValleyVoicesofAlmonte>.
In late summer we will be looking for a few people to join in on our musical fun — some singers and some instrumentalists. Watch our Facebook page or email <valleyvoicesofalmonte@gmail.com> for more information. We would love to hear from you!
Come for the meal, stay for the meeting! Union Hall’s Annual General Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 12. The evening will start with a community potluck dinner, followed by the business meeting.
Bring your favourite home-cooked dish, plates and cutlery, and enjoy a delicious meal. Dinner starts at 6pm, so you should be finished eating (except for that second or third dessert!) in time for the AGM at about 7:30pm
The agenda will include an update on significant improvements to the hall in the past year, as well as information on some big plans for the next twelve months, financial reports and elections. The Board of Directors and other volunteers have been working hard to maintain and improve the hall, and this has paid off in increased rentals, sign bookings and donations. The meeting should all be over by 9pm or so.
All are welcome! Join us for the meal even if you can’t stay for the meeting, or just show up later if you want to bring yourself up to date on what your community hall has to offer these days. While we are always on the lookout for new volunteers, you won’t be pressured into taking that on. So come out and enjoy time with your neighbours while contributing to the discussion about future plans for the hall.
The Union Hall Community Centre, at 1984 Wolf Grove Road (corner of Tatlock Road), is a Registered Charity which has served the community since 1857. We are grateful for financial assistance from Mississippi Mills, the Hub/Rebound and local businesses. WiFi will shortly be up and running again, thanks to Storm Internet Services. For more information, contact Linda at <camponi@storm.ca> or 256–2277.
When we’re in the mood for an exotic trip, we take ourselves to Farm Boy, that cornucopia of produce that makes me want a fridge the size of my whole kitchen. The carts are so big they should require shoppers to have a Class A(AZ) driver’s licence just to get through the first door. If we can get past the fragrant little packets of berries from Peru, we’re very lucky. They’re always displayed with dainty little cakes handy for imagining desserts when we haven’t even gotten to the real stuff.
I could take a list, but that would be foolhardy when I know every time I’m going to come home with stuff not on it: lovely yellow mangoes, pillowy grapes, fat juicy oranges, and a bunch of bananas below the crazy swinging monkey. How about a few black plums, and oh, there are the lemons! When it’s a dreary day, the colour alone is enticing
When we get to the vegetables, I’m finished: bags of greens spring into the cart, cauliflower, eggplants, a little head of cabbage, sweet potatoes, and woohoo — here I am at the tomatoes! Around the corner: peppers, banks of them, but I’ll only choose two… or three. [Note: there’s no broccoli in this cart. That’s a no-go in this house! The dogs won’t even eat it.]
I can’t resist the bargain cart, often loaded with diverse mixed trays too well-priced to leave. My last foray resulted in a lovely tray of peppers, garlic, and shallots. Never having tried shallots, but having seen them in many upscale recipes, it seemed the right time to indulge. The peppers I welcomed, also the garlic, but here I am with these darn shallots that I have no idea how to handle.
It’s only in the last couple of years I’ve ventured into the land of red onions, thinking that is as exotic as my cuisine deserves. The usual yellow onions, maybe a Vidalia from time to time, is the extent of my onion use. While my Dad’s big treat was a raw onion sandwich, that isn’t on the menu here.
The shallots sat in the fridge for a while, goading me into finding a decent recipe until in desperation I dumped out a few to add to a stir fry. They’re too small to trim and peel, almost like trying to peel a grape, for heaven’s sake. The skins are onion-like though, so not appetizing. I tried the garlic smack method, thinking if I squished them I could get the peel off, but all I got was a mess on the cutting board. Several skidded across the counter and onto the floor, commonly called the dog buffet if I’m not vigilant. Dogs aren’t supposed to eat onions. “Off, off, leave that. Oh no, now you’ve eaten it!”
The shallots were obviously not winning favour. I threw them into the pan, skin and all. Flavour-wise, I was not impressed. They didn’t even add colour. There they languished, tiny brownish slimy onions.
I went back to the recipe book, and realized if a recipe calls for shallots, it’s way too pretentious for me. It’ll also call for fenugreek or fish sauce. I’ll only need a spoonful, and I’ll have to buy a whole bottle. I got caught needing pickled ginger one time. When I mentioned to another customer that I only needed a tablespoon of it, and couldn’t imagine how I’d use it, she gladly bought it, gave me a spoonful, and we both went home happy.
“Shallots” are an excuse to raise the culinary bar from mundane to gourmet, not something we usually have here. Just like pasta. It comes in many shapes and sizes, but it’s still pasta, so if you want little noodles for soup, take the long stuff and break it up. If I need onion flavour, I’ll stick to regular onions, maybe go upscale to green ones, and that’s going to be exotic enough for me. When I read a recipe and get to the weird ingredients, I mentally substitute, and if I can’t use what I’ve got, I flip the page. Let’s be reasonable and use what we have before we go all gourmet and shop for things we’ll never need again, will keep for two years and then throw away.
Admitting the error of my shopping way, I am quietly relegating the darn shallots to the compost heap. Next time I see them tucked under garlic and peppers, I won’t pretend I know how to use them, and will bypass them. I do know how to use eggplants, I do know how to use those mangoes, and I can whip up a ratatouille followed by a mango mousse that satisfies our not-so-gourmet taste, all without resorting to sophisticated shallots.
As June ushers in Pride Month, Mississippi Mills is once again embracing the spirit of inclusion, visibility, and love with a grassroots initiative aimed at creating lasting symbols of belonging. The You Belong: Pride in Mississippi Mills campaign invites residents, businesses and organizations to support the next phase of the Pride Bench project — installing permanent, Pride-themed benches in Blakeney and Clayton.
Led by the all-volunteer committee Pride in Mississippi Mills, the initiative celebrates and uplifts 2SLGBTQIA+ communities through symbolic, functional public installations. These benches are more than just places to rest — they serve as daily reminders that inclusion, acceptance and visibility matter.
A Place to Rest, and to Belong
Painted in vibrant pink — a meaningful nod to the reclaimed pink triangle, a historic symbol of queer resistance and solidarity — each bench is inscribed with the message: “We are woven into the fabric of this community. You Belong. Pride Mississippi Mills.”
Built to meet municipal accessibility standards, these benches are designed to be both practical and powerful. Placed in central, public locations, they offer a space for connection, reflection and community-building.
Campaign Goals
Following successful installations in Pakenham, Almonte and Appleton, Pride in Mississippi Mills is now working toward 2025 with the goal of expanding the initiative to Blakeney and Clayton.
In addition to new installations, any surplus funds will be reinvested into local Pride programming across Mississippi Mills — supporting events, educational initiatives, and community projects that foster inclusion year-round.
Pride Month Events: Save the Dates!
Pride Month celebrations in Mississippi Mills are coming together — and full details will be announced soon on Pride in Mississippi Mills’ social media channels, as well as through Lanark County Wide Pride.
This June, the community will once again gather for the annual flag-raising ceremony, a meaningful tradition that launches Pride Month with visibility and unity.
New this year, we’re thrilled to introduce the Pride Picnic at the Mill of Kintail — a family-friendly afternoon of connection and celebration. Join us on Saturday, June 28 from 12–4pm at the beautiful Mill of Kintail Conservation Area. Pack a blanket, bring snacks to share, and gather with friends, neighbours and allies for a joyful day surrounded by nature, love and community.
We also encourage folks to mark their calendars for the County-Wide Pride Parade in Perth on Saturday, June 7. This vibrant and welcoming event brings together communities from across Lanark County in a powerful show of solidarity and joy. For more information and event updates, visit <queerconnectionlanark.ca>.
How to Support
Community support makes this project possible. You can get involved by donating directly or through the GoFundMe page at <https://gofund.me/4d57da43>, by sharing the message on social media, or by displaying campaign materials in your storefront or business.
Pride in Mississippi Mills also welcomes collaboration with local organizations and individuals — reach out to explore how you can contribute!
More Than a Month
“While Pride Month is a time to celebrate, our work goes beyond June,” explains the committee. “These benches are part of a broader commitment to building inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome — every day of the year.”
Through education, advocacy, and community connection, Pride in Mississippi Mills works year-round to support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. Whether through public celebrations, visible symbols of inclusion or learning opportunities, all efforts are rooted in one resounding message:
You belong.
To donate, get involved, or learn more, please email <prideinmm@gmail.com> or follow us on Instagram or Facebook @prideinmm. Together, let’s continue building a community where everyone feels seen, supported and celebrated. Happy Pride Month, Mississippi Mills!