On September 21st, 2024, at Camp Borden Golf Club, author Cindy Lane, known for her beloved children’s series Smelly Rogers, made a heartfelt contribution during a charity golf tournament in support of the Innisfill Snowdogs Special Needs Hockey Program.
Lane gifted signed copies of her latest anthology, Smelly Begins, which features illustrations by Mimi Hong, a Snow Dogs player who has contributed her artistic talents to the series. The event raised funds for the Snow Dogs, a team dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual differences learn and enjoy the game of hockey.
In a heartfelt speech, Lane shared the story behind her journey as an author and how Mimi’s role as the illustrator brought her characters—Jelly, Welly, and Smelly Rogers—to life. “Mimi’s talent was clear from the start,” said Lane. “Her illustrations capture the humor and heart of the stories, and her growth as an artist has been incredible.”
Mimi’s involvement with the Snow Dogs hockey team helped develop not only her athletic abilities but also her skills as an illustrator. Lane praised the team’s influence on Mimi, saying, “She learned collaboration, perseverance, and the importance of practice on the ice, which translated directly to her work as an artist.”
The Snow Dogs are a proud member of the Canadian Special Needs Hockey League (CSNH) and Special Hockey International (SHI), promoting acceptance, determination, and fun in a team atmosphere. Players like Mimi learn not only hockey skills but also life lessons that extend beyond the rink.
During the event, Lane and Mimi signed books for attendees, with a portion of the proceeds donated to the Snow Dogs program. “We are so grateful for everything this community has given us,” said Lane, expressing her deep gratitude to the Snow Dogs for fostering both Mimi’s athletic and artistic development.
The event celebrated the power of teamwork and the importance of supporting programs like the Snow Dogs, which empower individuals with intellectual differences through sports and social engagement.
Learn more about how you can support the Innisfil Snowdogs https://www.innisfilsnowdogshockey.ca/home