Escarpment Magazine Summer 2020

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EDITOR’S NOTE MARKET WATCH REAL ESTATE AFTERSHOT

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Contents 10

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COMMUNITY

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RECREATION

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EPICURE

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HOME FEATURE

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RECREATION

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WELLNESS

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EPICURE

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FASHION

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RECREATION

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ART PROFILE

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TRAVEL

A CHANGING LANDSCAPE PLAYING THROUGH SHIFTING GEARS DUE TO COVID

escarpmentmagazine.ca

VIRTUAL POND SKIM PLUNGE GET LOST FOR A WHILE RUGGED SPLENDOUR

SUMMER SIDES SUMMER SIPS ROME ALONE

A MODERN TAKE

HAZY, LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER

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PHYSICAL DISTANCING DONE RIGHT

Social distancing has never looked so good.

Check out the Sound Outlook series for a curated view of how we’re working together as a community through COVID-19.

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HERE’S TO THE ROAD AHEAD. 180 DAYS NO PAYMENT FOR FINANCE

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escarpment | editor’s note

F Cara Williams Editor-In-Chief cara@escarpmentmagazine.ca

On the cover, Fraser Bay No. 2,

by Margarethe Vanderpas, 24” x 36”, oil on canvas.

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For several months now, our routines have been indisputably upended, during which time, we have by necessity established new routines.

These may not however, be our preferred routines, which is why I am hesitant to use the expression “the new normal”.

This is anything but normal.

It certainly isn’t normal to be living in isolation—for our children not being allowed to attend school or to visit with family and friends—to be required to work from home— or be forced out of a job, while still wishing to support our local businesses. There are countless people in our community who rely on their employment and who are genuinely worried about the months ahead, not to mention our brave frontline and essential workers who are putting themselves at risk every day. So, no—not normal.

I have been guilty of saying “I can’t wait to get back to normal”. But in the middle of a global pandemic, when many aspects of our lives have changed, we also confronted a pandemic of racism. Since then, we’ve taken the time to step back—to listen and learn—and establish actionable solutions.

For many Black, Indigenous and People of Colour, excruciating realities beyond their control are what they deal with every day.

If we want to be true allies to marginalized peoples, we need to treat racism like the plague it is—identify biases and injustices and work every day to remove that conditioning.

This summer will undoubtedly be unlike any we’ve experienced, but what if it’s one for the record books in the best way possible? What if, instead of letting our current situation define us, we use it to our advantage; go out and explore in our own backyards; discover our incredible local businesses and meet our diverse residents (at a safe distance, of course); with the understanding that our collective “normal” has forever changed. This gives me hope—hope that we will come away from this experience with a renewed understanding and a chance to do better.

Hope offers us clarity that, amid the uncertainty ahead, we have the opportunity to stand together, to learn from each other and to support one another. We may not be able to physically embrace, but we can embrace change. Here’s to an epic summer!

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PUBLISHER/OWNER Clay Dolan clay@escarpmentmagazine.ca EDITOR- IN - CHIEF Cara Williams cara@escarpmentmagazine.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Susan Meingast creative@escarpmentmagazine.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jenna Albany, Elizabeth Rush Brooks, Marcus Caston, Sylvain Champagne, Tara Coates, Jamie Edwards, Zak Erb, Corynn Fowler, Chris Godin, Kirsten Garbutt, Chris Gardnier, Heather Goldsworthy, Andrew Greg, Courtney Hancock, Jenn Hartley Boyce, Dorris Heffron, Marcia L. Masino, Trevor Mathers, Kelly McDonald, Cathy McGirr, Alena McLaren, Nicole Mellin, Dr. Paula Moore, Luke Mou, Chad North, Don Panko, Cameron T. Powell, Stefanie Richardson, Jeff Schouwaerts, Luka Senk, Frank Shine, Des von Teichman, Robin Waters, Jody Wilson, Shelby Worts, Jennifer Woodburn

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escarpment | community

by Cara Williams photography by Clay Dolan

a changing

LAND Picturesque summer evening at Sideroad Farm near Markdale.

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Amid fears of a looming food crisis, forward thinking local farmers turned to diversified market streams to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on our food supply. For some it was grappling with the sudden cease in demand from restaurants that had closed, for others it was modifying their business model, turning to online sales and discovering new ways to deliver their produce into the hands of local consumers.

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hile global food markets have faced months of uncertainty due to COVID-19, our local agri-food sector has shown more resilience to the pandemic thanks to enterprising farmers who have diversified in order to connect consumers with fresh, healthy, locally grown produce. Many farms were faced with the sudden cease in demand from restaurants and specialty epicure

to stick with our plans and continue to plant as usual.” What has changed for Amy and her husband Patrick is how they sell and distribute their goods. “About two weeks into trying to run our store with appropriate protocols in place in order to keep our staff and the public safe, we decided that it would be best to move everything entirely online and not have the public in the store for the time being.” Fortunately, Amy and Patrick have a well-

“ Our workers were supposed to arrive in late April. The government offices in Mexico closed before that could happen and all of the workers were put in limbo. We were able to get six of them expedited.”

Migrant worker, Chuenlay Perez Victoriano from Mexico, in the fields at The New Farm.

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established customer base and were able to tap into this database to get the word out. “We now take orders online, pack them up and folks either pick up in our parking lot or we offer home delivery.”

The pandemic has exponentially increased the demand for produce at many local farms and farm markets. “It’s hard to say exactly why,” asks Amy. “Is it a fear of running out of food? New found motivation to support local? More time spent cooking at home versus eating out? Perhaps a combination of all three. We (and most other farmers who sell direct) have experienced a sharp increase in demand for our food. Particularly those of us who have set up online sales. Our store traffic has increased by 400 percent since mid-March.”

Others weren’t so lucky out of the gate. For over 15 years Gillian Files and Brent Preston have been producing premium quality organic vegetables at their family run farm located on s

partnerships that had closed due to the pandemic, while others were forced to revamp their websites to support online sales and coordinate deliveries throughout the region. Farmers across the Escarpment acted swiftly and creatively to mitigate disruptions and to ensure nutritious food remains available amid uncertainty. All of this was done of course, while farmers were readying the soil for spring planting, managing crops that had already sprouted, and tending to livestock.

Lives and livelihoods are at risk from this pandemic and agriculture is no different.

“Our farm follows a rhythm set by mother nature,” says Amy Kitchen of Sideroad Farms. “There’s not much that a pandemic can do to derail that. We had already made our plans, ordered our supplies and were well on our way planting for the season, when the realities of the current situation began to unfold. We decided

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Kyle Oakley with an Ontario Produce Box at Goldsmith’s Orchard Market.

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for shifting their business model to delivery programs like ‘Fresh City’ and distributing their produce to grocery stores and farm markets like Goldsmith’s Orchard Market in Thornbury. “We feel that we have a moral obligation to grow healthy, nutritious local food. We have pivoted to a larger focus on retail sales and home delivery services. We have had to introduce new types of packaging to accommodate new clients and we have had to revamp our operation to accommodate COVID-19 public health social distancing requirements.”

In addition to the litany of changes to their day-to-day operations, The New Farm canceled all their summer events including their annual charity fundraiser, Farms for Change which supports local foodbanks and ‘Community Food Centres Canada’. With help from restaurants like Bruce Wine Bar and The Pottery, as well as legendary musical acts like The Tragically Hip, Sloan, The Sadies, Sam Roberts Band, Stars, and Broken Social Scene, Farms for Change is a highlight of the summer for those fortunate enough to score a ticket, and has raised over $1,000,000 in the 10 years since it began. “We believe that sustainable, profitable small farms are the foundation of a healthy food s

the crest of the Niagara Escarpment just west of the village of Creemore. Traditionally, 60 percent of The New Farm’s harvest is earmarked for restaurants—many of which were forced to shut down earlier this spring, or have sadly closed their doors forever. To complicate matters further, The New Farm employs seven migrant workers who were slated to arrive in Canada just weeks after the government mandated travel ban. “Our workers were supposed to arrive in late April,” explains Gillian. “The government offices in Mexico closed before that could happen and all of the workers were put in limbo. We were able to get six of them expedited, but because one was living in a different area of the country, his state office would not respond and allow him to get his Visa and work permit processed. When the first six arrived on May 8th they had to be transported to their housing on our farm—we weren’t allowed to pick them up at the airport like we have for 11 years. They then had to quarantine for 14 days and were not legally allowed to work; however, we did pay them for 30 hours per week. We hired someone to shop and run errands for them and covered all of their food costs while in quarantine.”

Amid all the red tape, Gillian and Brent managed the early season planting with the help of friends, neighbours and their teenaged children, Foster and Ella. “Luckily, the season was a bit late and the guys made it here for the first harvest,” says Gillian.

The final migrant worker arrived in late June which offered Gillian and Brent the chance to take a breath and look at options

“We experienced empty shelves at the beginning of the pandemic and this continued for some time, but it was not always due to lack of product, but simply the lack of hours in the day to try required to get everything back on the shelf.”

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Clockwise from top left: Amy and Patrick Kitchen with their children at Sideroad Farm; Gillian Files in the greenhouse at The New Farm; pouring wine at Good Family Farms with Sumac + Salt; vegetable garden at Good Family Farms

system, and that local, organic food should be available to everyone,” says Gillian. “Farms for Change is a partnership between organic farmers and ‘Community Food Centres Canada’ that aims to increase access to healthy organic food while strengthening organic farms. This year we will be fundraising online so that we can continue to send good food to people in need when they need it the most.”

Culinary entrepreneurs Hannah Harradine and Joel Grey have been hosting intimate farm to table dinners at Good Family Farms, under the pseudonym ‘Sumac + Salt’.

The partnership was born out of the desire to educate and inspire through knowledge of the farming practices that go into bringing food to our plates. “Due to the pandemic our previous concept was completely halted,” explains Hannah.

“One of the main founding principles of our dinners is communal style dining. We love having a diverse table of people who maybe wouldn’t normally meet. It’s amazing to see 12 strangers sitting together, sharing stories and starting a conversation about local food. We are now moving forward with socially (physically) distanced tables as well as accommodating private dinners for 10-person social circles.

Our concept/passion is to showcase the best of Simcoe, Grey and Bruce Counties. Although we have taken a step back from large communal dinner parties we are ready to move forward with a concept that reflects the state of the new world and as always with a focus on local.”

Local is a recurring theme—not only have our homegrown farmers stepped up to the challenges presented by this pandemic, but our community has displayed loyalty and commitment to supporting local agriculturalists.

Mitchell Good of Good Family Farms credits this region’s understanding of a potential food crisis. “We have become acutely aware of the fragility of our food system,” says Mitchell. “When big business faltered, our farm and many others were not able to meet the demands of our community. Industrialization and commodification of our food hamstrings our society when faced with a pandemic.

It is apparent that decentralized food production and processing is very important for food sovereignty. We are planning and investing in scaling up our direct to market sales because of the new awareness the virus has created in the consumer. We are looking to retail as much as possible.”

Clearly farmers who moonlight as retail grocers have weathered the COVID storm by adapting their business practices and acclimating to the new social environment.

Debby and Kyle Oakley (generational farmers who also own/operate Goldsmith’s Orchard Market) describe the difficulty in staffing during a pandemic; “From the back end, one huge change the consumer would never see is in our scheduling,” explains Debby. “We experienced empty shelves at the beginning of the pandemic like every grocery store, and this continued for some time, but it was not Summer 2020

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always due to lack of product, but simply the lack of hours in the day to try required to get everything back on the shelf. It is very challenging to stock a store while maintaining physical distancing, so one way we’ve worked to combat this is by spreading out staff shifts before and after store hours, so that we can have dedicated cleaning and restocking time when we’re not trying to stay out of the way of people shopping. We call the constant dance to maintain physical distancing the ‘COVID shuffle’.”

Known for their vibrant organic edible flowers, herbs and

a drive with the kids was a way to get out of the house.” After a few weeks Roy decided it would make more sense logistically to deliver orders, so every Thursday he makes over 80 deliveries.

Like many, Roy’l Acres and Sideroad Farms, traditionally sold a hefty portion of their produce at the Collingwood Farmers’ Market during the summer months. “The market represents about 1/4 of our revenue and so we have had to find ways to make up that income in order to keep things running,” says Amy

“ Local farms and farm markets are proving to be more resilient to the pandemic than many other sectors thanks to forward thinking farmers who have adapted to the changing ‘landscape of agriculture and are therefore able to meet the demands of our residents with safe, affordable and fresh produce.”

Roy Love of Roy’l Acres Farm picking tomatoes in the greenhouse.

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Kitchen of Sideroad Farm. “We, along with four other vendors, have started a temporary local food hub, where our customers can order from us online and pick up their items on Saturday mornings.” At first, Amy and her husband Pat figured the increase in sales was a temporary blip. “While this is a good thing overall, and we are so fortunate to be a business that is not struggling with sales, it has been a whole other beast to manage. The jump has come out of the blue for us and it takes time to increase production on a farm, so we have ended up buying in more from other farms than we had planned, to make up for it.

Selling online also takes a huge amount of labour in the managing of logistics, the packing of groceries and administration. We have had to bring on three more people just to keep up with it and still find ourselves working 16-hour days, seven days a week (with young kids at home) just to try to keep our heads above

s

vegetables, Roy and Ginny Love’s pre-COVID produce was primarily sold to local restaurants with a small percentage sold at farmers’ markets or to direct customers. Roy’l Acres Farm adapted to the new social environment by offering the community access to their produce as well as plants and seedlings earmarked for restaurants.

“Everyone seems to want to be a gardener now,” laughs Roy. “We took those plants that were ready to go into the ground and sold them to the public, rather than to restaurants.” Throughout the spring and early summer, Roy’s business grew thanks to word-ofmouth and before long, Roy’l Acres’ sales were booming. “At the beginning of the pandemic people would order through text or email. I didn’t even have to change our website. We offered clients the option to pick up their order at the farm—when I would tell them how far away we are (the farm is located in Grey Highlands) they would tell me it doesn’t matter—getting in the car and going for

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escarpment | community

Sam Brooker, Mitchell Good, Joel Grey, Hannah Harradine, Cassondra Dillman, Andrew Alford host intimate farm to table dinners at Good Family Farms, under the pseudonym Sumac + Salt.

water. So, while demand is up, we will not see much in an increase of profit due to it.”

While increased demand is what initially took many local farmers by surprise, many were able to adapt and adjust in order to meet the demand. In preparation for the busy summer season Debby and Kyle Oakley planted slightly more than they would have otherwise. They also introduced a weekly produce box containing a selection of in-season Ontario produce. “We will continue the local produce box throughout the summer and into the fall, so long as there is the demand,” says Debby. “And most exciting for us is, we are working towards having a true online store—this is a huge endeavour because we have thousands and thousands of products and variations in our small store.”

While COVID-19 has posed a serious threat to food security, local farms and farm markets are proving to be more resilient to the pandemic than many other sectors thanks to forward thinking farmers who have adapted to the changing landscape of agriculture and are therefore able to meet the demands of our residents with safe, affordable and fresh produce. “When the grocery stores faltered and did not have consistent supply, people took it seriously and sought out local producers and farms to secure their food,” says Mitchell Good. “In a lot of ways food has been taken for granted—assumed 30

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that it is endless and is available all year round. Our centralized, commoditized and industrialized food system is fragile and it was apparent with the COVID-19 outbreak. People are learning to value their health and are turning to good, local organic food, which may cost more. Decentralizing and breaking down large businesses into more small businesses run by people in the community will make our food system much more stable and pandemic proof.” Ec FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE FARMS IN THIS STORY PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITES AT:

SIDEROAD FARM sideroadfarm.com THE NEW FARM thenewfarm.ca ROY’L ACRES roylacresfarm.ca

GOOD FAMILY FARM goodfamilyfarms.ca GOLDSMITH’S ORCHARD MARKET goldsmithsmarket.com

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escarpment | recreation

PLAYING THROUGH Local golf courses have gone to considerable lengths to open the season safely during the COVID-19

pandemic, adopting best practices to further minimize health risks and to allow golfers to get back on the green.

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by Cara Williams photography by Clay Dolan

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hose who love the game of golf and the escape it provides might argue that even preCOVID-19 golf had a certain amount of social distancing built into its existing rules of play. As excited as golfers were to get back on the course (you can bet the exhilaration deadened a bit with the first chip shot into a bunker), the opening of golf courses earlier this spring came with new guidelines designed to maximize safety and limit the number of contact points where the virus could be transmitted. Even before the Phase One announcement was made, Monterra Golf at Blue Mountain Resort was fielding calls for tee-time requests from golf-lovers itching to hit the greens.

“Golf gives people the chance to get outside, enjoy the weather while physical distancing,” says Greg Lecky, PGA of Canada Professional, and Manager of Golf & Winter Activities at Blue Mountain Resort. “Being on the course is the easy part. For our staff, we need to manage the flow of when people are checking into the golf shop and returning the carts.”

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Monterra Golf is open for course access to season passholders, members of the public, and Blue Mountain lodging guests.

Many policies have been amended to ensure health and safety, including arrival at the course—please don’t arrive an hour ahead of time so you can work on your beautiful (or horrible) golf swing—players are advised to arrive up to 15 minutes before tee time. By taking a few extra steps to ensure safety, such as booking tee times online, traveling to the course alone and resisting the temptation to socialize outside of your group, we can all enjoy our favourite game safely and responsibly.

Murphy’s Law states that if there is one sand trap on a 550-yard hole, your ball will settle right into the middle it. COVID-19 golf etiquette dictates that you replace divots, fix ball marks and smooth sand to the best of your ability. You may have noticed bunker rakes have been removed so players are asked to smooth sand with their feet. If your ball comes to rest in a disturbed area, you may take a free drop at the nearest 34

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point of relief in the bunker. Finally, lifting and placing is encouraged—see the game isn’t so hard after all! Golf courses have been instructed to remove or disable anything that your hands could touch, so you may want to bring a towel. If your ball gets a little dirty from whacking it into the sand, simply wipe it off. Flagsticks remain in the hole and Pin Caddies have been put in hole cups for simple, contact-free ball retrieval.

“Almost everyone I talk to says they’ve knocked 10-15 minutes off of their rounds,” says Mike Tenet of Collingwood. “Not having to rake bunkers, fill divots and wash balls certainly helps speed things up. In 2019 rules dictated players receive a penalty for hitting the flagstick with a putt from the green but we’re now forced leave the pin in for safety reasons, which speeds up play.

Although my scores aren’t any higher, I actually prefer this style of play. Maybe from now on they’ll nail the pin in the cup and never remove it.”

The Leaderboard Bar & Grill at Monterra is open for take-out service

prior to your round, and you’ll have the chance to burn off your meal by walking the course. Monterra staff understands that not everyone is able to walk, therefore carts are washed and sanitized after each use and touch points are wiped down each time a staff member moves the cart. All golfers must have their own clubs and are responsible for handling them at bag drop including loading onto their cart.

“So far this summer golfers are respecting the rules,” says Mike Tenet. Golf has a positive impact on our physical, social and mental well-being... well, I guess that depends on how well you play. But honestly, any day on the course is a good day.” E Monterra Golf is committed to playing its part in taking every precaution to keep the environment safe, flattening the curve of COVID-19 and reducing future viral spread. Now, it’s up to golfers to show restraint and responsibility. Follow the guidelines. Obey the rules—even if it seems unreasonable or too restrictive.

CUSTOM BUILT HOMES BY DAVE AND CHRISTINE HARRINGTON

705.446.7072 | www.absolutecraftsmen.ca Summer 2020

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While the global pandemic has injected an air of the unknown into our society of late, it’s also served as a reminder of the many benefits of outdoor recreation like cycling—it connects us, improves our health, reduces our stress levels in times of uncertainty and allows us to see the world in new and unexpected ways.

shifting

by Jody Wilson

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COVID

Gavin Moses from Win Cycling Centre climbing Grey Road 40 in the Grey County Road Race’s Time Trial. Photo by Clay Dolan.

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March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declares a pandemic with the spread of the COVID-19 virus and the world as we currently knew it changed, a moment we will never forget. A time when companies acted quickly to get employees working from home, a time when hospitals and essential front-line workers exposed themselves to the deadliest virus since the Spanish flu, a time many businesses struggled to pay their rent, but also a time smaller local business began to grow and thrive.

With all the changes and uncertainty to our normal way of life, it’s hard to see where the bicycle fits into all of this.

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Katie Button riding through the canola fields in the Town of the Blue Mountains.

Photo by Clay Dolan.

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cycling economy. Here’s what’s been going on locally during the last few months.

In March, during the beginning of shutdown here in Canada, many local bikes shops found themselves dealing with the uncertainty of what was to come. By mid-March the Ontario Government deemed bike shop as an essential service and many responded quickly, providing curb side pick-ups and drop offs for repair.

“The industry flipped virtually overnight with a massive surge of interest,” says Neil Gold, a local cyclist as well as the Canadian Sales Manager, Cycling Sports Group.

“Kids needed bikes that fit, parents had neglected to maintain their bikes hanging in garages or sheds. Commuters avoided public transit. The demand for service skyrocketed and sales boomed!” Add to this homeschooling and spring/summer temperatures and you have the perfect set up for a mini family getaway from the home, all on two wheels.

The rush in bike sales and tune-ups

posed operational challenges for the local shops. In speaking with Kris Baumgarten, owner of Kamikaze Bikes in Collingwood, he mentions that as the warm weather started to arrive, up to 30-40 people dropped off bikes each day, and it didn’t stop. Add to this supply chain issues and it has been a very challenging time for getting parts and accessories for customers. Baumgarten also mentioned that it is hard to find a bike between $300 to $1500, as everything in that range is out of stock. Anyone looking will have to wait until the fall, when the industry can catch up to the demand.

At Squire John’s, where traditionally a customer would wait a day or two for a tune up, there is now a one or two week wait. In speaking with Shane Kilfoyle from Squires, this unheard of wait time can be attributed to the number of seasonal residents who remained in the area after the ski season ended abruptly in midMarch. With this came bicycle tune ups

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Throughout history the bicycle has played an important role in modern society.

Examples include its role in World War I as well as its involvement in the Women’s Liberation Movement. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that during a pandemic, the simple bicycle is playing an important role in keeping people safe and healthy, both physically and mentally.

The bicycle plays a very important role here in the Southern Georgian Bay area. In fact, this area is widely known for its “work where you play” mentality.

This mantra has aided in the development of the cycling community both on the road and off. Locals utilize the endless trail networks for commuting and leisure riding, while mountain bikers and roadies spend countless hours on the great single track and endless road network around the region. With numerous bike shops and cafes that cater to the local cycling industry, there’s no doubt the COVID-19 virus will have an impact on the local

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of May, Kimberley General Store placed a water cooler just outside the entrance for cyclists to refill their water bottles and they are working on a plan to have goodies and drinks available for the summer season. Ravenna Country Market has remained open and welcomes cyclists and requires them to use hand sanitizer and follow the arrows on the ground if they want a hot cup of coffee and a butter tart. There is a limit of five people allowed in the store at a time to maintain social distancing. Over in Creemore, the bike rack remains in front of Affairs Café and all the pastries are available to cyclists, but only two people may enter the café at a time.

The road cycling community faced many changes in the early days of COVID and many riders found themselves riding solo on the road or inside on trainers. The Collingwood Cycling Club (CCC) belongs to the Ontario Cycling Association (OCA), and all of their organized weekly rides require sanctioning from the governing body. In March,

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as well as new set ups for all ages. Kilfoyle mentioned that in the course of two months, hardworking staff had pushed through a summer’s worth of bike fittings, sales and service.

Everyone knows that coffee shops and cycling come hand in hand. Many of the local hot spots have remained open to cyclists, but others, due to size restrictions and social distancing have come up with creative ways to make this happen. “It is no secret that anything bicycle related has been in great demand through COVID,” says Darren Smith of Smitty’s Bike Shop in Thornbury. “Smitty’s is seeing business we have not seen before and the demand for bicycles is outweighing the supply chain.” Kimberley General Store has conducted 90% of its business as curbside pickup. For the months of March through May, a hand-written sign hung on their door thanking cyclists for all the years of business, but during these times, their priority remained providing groceries and essentials to the locals of the area. At the end Matt Sharp in the Pretty River Valley.

Photo by Jody Wilson

“IT IS NO SECRET THAT ANYTHING BICYCLE RELATED HAS BEEN IN GREAT DEMAND THROUGH COVID. SMITTY’S IS SEEING BUSINESS THEY HAVE NOT SEEN BEFORE AND THE DEMAND FOR BICYCLES IS OUTWEIGHING THE SUPPLY CHAIN.” Summer 2020

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the Canadian Cycling association advised that there would be no group activities as governmental guidelines could not be followed while group riding in the traditional manor. Fast forward to the end of May and the OCA rolled out a new set of guidelines which allow cyclists to ride in groups of five or less as long as the social distancing rules of two meters or more was kept between riders. The CCC realizes that it is virtually impossible to hold a group ride under these guidelines, so they will continue to wait for more direction from the province before the regular weekly rides will resume. “Everything is currently on hold,� says Noelle Wansbrough, President of the CCC. Wansbrough indicated that she knows of at least one Ontario based club that has cancelled the season. She explained that the Board of Directors is working to come up with alternative ways to ride, but

will resume normal activities once the province has lifted restrictions.

Despite this, the CORC Board has taken the COVID times as an opportunity to forge ahead. Despite Thursday nights being cancelled, CORC has been busy constructing new trails and pump tracks for its younger members to build and develop their bike skills.

They have also focused their efforts on building key relationships with private land owners, Ontario Parks and Kolapore Wilderness Trails in order to connect local systems and provide CORC members with greater value in the future. The CORC is very excited about a number of upcoming initiatives and have been using their social media platform to help promote shopping locally and helping out their sponsors. In the Month of May alone the CORC membership grew by 350, bringing the number to 500, an obvious indicator that

Sean Calhoun climbing on his gravel bike in Loree Forest. Photo by Jody Wilson

ultimately, they are waiting on response from the OCA as to whether the members will be able to get their money back or defer their memberships until 2021.

The local amateur racing experience has also come to an abrupt stop. Many of the events such as the UCI World Qualifier Blue Mountains Gran Fondo, Sea Otter Canada and all the OCA mountain bike, road and gravel races have all been cancelled or temporally postponed until later this year. In the meantime, the OCA race schedule has been taken indoors to the popular virtual platform, Zwift. Many local cyclists use platforms like this during the winter months to train.

As popular as road riding is in this area, mountain biking has sky rocketed over the last few years. As the snow melted away this spring, many of the popular trails remained closed. In the beginning of May, as the trails began to dry up, the province started lifting restrictions in provincial parks, allowing riding in places like Three Stage again.

The very popular Collingwood Offroad Club or CORC, has put its normal Thursday evening mountain bike rides on hold and 42

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the restrictions haven’t stopped families from riding bikes.

Despite all the challenges during these times, the bicycle is helping families spend more quality time together in an active way. For the individual commuting, the mountain biker out on the single track, or the roadie out on the vast network of routes, it provides a mental escape from the everyday challenges. With our cities struggling to find solutions to the over packed transit, emergency initiatives are being introduced to build hundreds of kilometers of bike lanes to get the workforce back to premise. Many individuals, wanting to support our local healthcare system and respect the front-line workers, have found a new love for indoor riding as they stayed inside to ride during the early days of the pandemic. While our local tourism begins to open up and the local bike shops catch up with the built-up demand, the bicycle will remain a very healthy, important part of life here in the Southern Georgian Bay area. E For the most up-to-date information, check resources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and www.ontario.ca.

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Jasper Williams, photo by Cara Williams.

Virtual plunge

by Cara Williams

POND SKIM

W

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together with title sponsor Coors Light Canada have raised tens of thousands of dollars for the foundation over the years at the Retro Pond Skim. Shortly after the nation-wide lockdown began, Blue Mountain Events Manager Erika Langman and Social Media Coordinator Mel Kurtin had a brilliant idea which not only revived this popular event but supported our local hospital while promoting social distancing.

“We invited Blue Mountain followers

to film themselves taking the virtual Pond Skim Plunge,” explains Mel Kurtin.

Participants were asked to post a short video of themselves being doused with water, just as they would at the Retro Pond Skim. Each entrant would donate $25 (what would have been their event registration fee) and nominate three friends to “take the plunge” using the hashtag #PondSkimPlunge. Blue Mountain and Coors Light Canada offered to match each donation to the CGMHF up to $6,000.

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hen Blue Mountain Resort was forced to suspend operations due to COVID-19, events slated for spring 2020, including the popular Retro Pond Skim, were cancelled.

A traditional send-off to ski season, this well-attended annual event features hundreds of spirited skiers and snowboarders attempting to “skim” across a small man-made pond at the base of the hill.

Reminiscent of a 1980’s era Warren Miller movie, it’s not always about getting across the pond unscathed—most competitors attempt to skim in full costume, hoping for the loudest cheer and often catapulting themselves face first into the icy waters.

A long-time supporter of the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital Foundation (CGMHF), Blue Mountain,

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Top left, Chris Brakel; top right, Jenna Mielzynski, photo by Carter Nicoll; bottom, Nick Bubela, selfie.

All participants in Blue’s Virtual Pond Skim Plunge 2020.

With nearly 50 entrants the virtual event gained traction immediately. Young and old took the plunge, with extremely creative and often hilarious videos.

Many donned retro ski gear and were doused with hoses, buckets of water and even a few water guns.

Others skimmed across the grass while being towed with a rope—some even ended up in hot tubs.

Escarpment’s own Clay Dolan even took the Plunge, skiing across a frog pond in his front yard.

“We were very impressed by the level of creativity in the challenge videos,” explains Mel. “Kristin Schnelten put out an amazing stop motion video with some playmobile that really upped the production quality. Blue Mountain legend, Rob Sheridan and his daughter Kylie rigged up a zipline across their pond so they could actually skim across the water. We had people plunging into Georgian Bay, skateboarding in snowsuits, skiing across their yards and even flipping into airbag puddles. The number of kids who were able to spray their parents was also amazing.”

By all accounts the virtual platform didn’t relinquish any of the fun of the in-person experience, while still providing much needed support for our local hospital. “It’s a tradition to end the ski season at Blue Mountain Resort with the annual Pond Skim Plunge with proceeds to support the Collingwood Hospital Foundation,” says Linda Caron, Event Coordinator Collingwood General & Marine Hospital Foundation. “We are grateful that the staff at BMR felt it was important to host this fundraiser but due to COVID-19 pandemic they came up with an innovative twist.”

The event raised a total of $3,425 in donations.

As promised Blue Mountain and Molson Canada matched the donations and present the CGMHF with a cheque for $6,850. The funds generated from the Pond Skim Plunge are helping the Collingwood G&M Hospital continue to address emerging needs as we tackle this COVID pandemic.

“It was a fun and great initiative to unite the community for a good cause,” says Melissa. “And it was wonderful to see how many people committed and participated. My hope is that next year we can celebrate the end of the ski season together and get back to the Retro Pond Skim as it was but it still brings up the same feelings knowing our community of skiers and riders can still come together for the same cause, even if it is only virtually.” E 46 escarpmentmagazine.ca

“ We are so grateful for the support and encouragement of the staff at BMR and everyone who participated and supported the Pond Skim Plunge. The community really jumped on board and got creative with their challenges and, after the matching from Molson and BMR the event raised $6,850 to help fight Covid-19 at CGMH. The funds generated from this event supported the COVID-19 Critical Response Fund with an immediate impact to local hospital and clinical staff by providing the necessary resources to keep the staff safe and resilient. Thank you to everyone who participated and are helping to keep staff and patients safe.”

LINDA CARON, EVENT COORDINATOR COLLINGWOOD, GENERAL & MARINE HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

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escarpment |wellness

If you’re feeling cooped up and looking for a simple way to help reduce stress, anxiety, depression and even improve your memory—take a hike!

get LO 48 48

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OST

Story & Photography by Zak Erb

yourself in the woods? For most of us diligent nine to fivers the answer is likely once or twice a week at best, with the frequency dropping the closer our homes or jobs are to major urban centres. And, if you’re anything like me, those rare forays into the forest tend to go something like this; “I have 2.5 hours and I need to cover 10km of trail.

s

[ FOR A WHILE ]

How often do you find

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Epidemiology), that it’s difficult to break out of our established patterns, slow down, and let the forest perform its healing.

‘Shinrin Yoku’ originated in Japan in response to this same problem. The English translation is forest bathing and in practice, it is simply the act of being in nature.

Walking without hurry or even direction, experiencing the forest with all of your senses. Studies spearheaded by Dr. Qing Li on the effects of forest bathing indicate that it is effective in reducing the effects of fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Subjects experienced reduced blood pressure and lower heart rates after a two-hour program of forest bathing, when compared to similar activity in an urban setting.

This practice has now spread across the globe, thanks in part to organizations like the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT). Founded in 2012, the association trains, certifies, and supports Forest Therapy Guides, who then lead groups on forest walks. The guide

encourages mindfulness, forest stewardship and harmony between participants. Tamara Fournier was born to become a Forest Therapy Guide.

Based out of Clarksburg, Tamara can usually be found in the woods which surround nearby Metcalfe Rock. In her role as a climbing and caving guide with Free Spirit Tours, she has led countless groups into the woods, over the babbling stream, through ancient caves and crevices.

In this time, she has developed a sincere and abiding love for the land. This understanding of wild places, combined with her abilities as a leader, and passion for community, drew her to begin training with the ANFT in early 2019.

Now, as a certified Forest Therapy Guide, Tamara has been leading others into better understanding themselves, and the natural world around them.

“By becoming a guide, I knew I’d be able to support people in cultivating that connection with nature for themselves. And

‘SHINRIN YOKU’ – THE ENGLISH TRANSLATION IS FOREST BATHING AND IN PRACTICE, IT IS SIMPLY THE ACT OF BEING IN NATURE. WALKING WITHOUT HURRY OR EVEN DIRECTION, EXPERIENCING THE FOREST WITH ALL OF YOUR SENSES.

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Gotta hit 12,500 steps and get that heart rate up for a solid 45 minutes.”

For some, time in nature has become something of a reflection of their regular workday: results oriented, heavily micromanaged, and increasingly digitized.

We know that time spent in nature can be immensely beneficial. It reduces stress and anxiety while enhancing mental focus and physical fitness. We know that the wilderness is our single greatest defense against the relentless pace of modern life. We in Canada knew this when we designated millions of hectares of our country as protected parkland. We know this in the academic world through countless studies correlating forest walks with general health benefits.

What we don’t seem to know is how to let the woods effectively practice their medicine. We Canadians spend so much of our time indoors (22 hours and 33 minutes each day, according to the Journal of Exposure Analysis & Environmental

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that can be such a powerful tool, to feel connected—not only to nature—but also to self, and through this to others.” Her walks encourage these connections by first restructuring our typical approach to outdoor time. Mobile phones are powered down, and as their insistent beeps and buzzings fade, the sounds of the forest seem to swell and come alive. Gone too is the pressure to cover great distances and hit targets. The trail itself, long viewed as the means to an end, becomes the destination. With a series of invitations, participants are taught to move with snail-like slowness through the trees, silently allowing the forest to reveal itself to them. And as the woods make themselves known, so too do the participants reveal themselves to each other as they share their thoughts and experiences, even the odd song or dance.

This community building may be the aspect of forest therapy which most excites Tamara. “Weaving in my passion for mindfulness, love for humans and community... the result will hopefully be a more caring, cautious and aware community, living sustainably and in balance with nature. That’s the utopia goal.” These guided walks culminate in a tea ceremony which features wild tea brewed by Tamara especially for the occasion.

It is a touching moment where participants reflect on their time together and offer gratitude to the host forest.

On a recent forest walk with Tamara my biggest takeaway was how good it feels to simply move slowly through the woods.

Laying a hand on a mossy stone, breathing in deep the scent of 52

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Welcome back to Collingwood’s Downtown this summer!

Our businesses are working hard to ensure you feel comfortable and safe shopping downtown. So look no further, Collingwood Downtown has everything you need. Take a stroll, book private shopping hours or check out www.collingwoodcommons.com for pre-orders and delivery options. The shops are full of beautiful summer fashion and home décor. The patios are open and your favourite ‘outdoor grocery store’ – the Collingwood Downtown Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday morning at the corner of Second and Pine Streets.

Enjoy the finer things in life all summer long – the best in local art, boutique shopping, music and culinary creativity.

the woods. You begin to feel personally connected to a vast, ancient, living organism. It is humbling, and it is purifying.

Guided forest walks are an excellent entry point to forest bathing, and the guided experience is worth repeating, but a ny time in the woods, guided or not, is time well spent. Here’s a couple of my favourite trails in the Owen Sound area that help me achieve forest zen:

Sunny days are back in all their glory in Downtown Collingwood!

It’s all waiting for you!

THE PALISADES SIDE TRAIL off 7th Ave East forms a 2.5km loop with the main Bruce Trail. Quiet, with rugged terrain this is a perfect quick outing with a small group.

THE GLEN MANAGEMENT AREA off Grey Road 17 just north of town features the Ron Savage Side Trail. The trail borders a marsh and forms a 5km loop with the main trail back to roadside parking.

This is another quiet section with varied forests, wildlife, and of course the marsh. It is not a strenuous trail and is very well suited to the reduced pace of forest bathing.

As a species we are ever in need of the great outdoors. We don’t need studies to tell us this, our bodies and minds know it intrinsically. But the therapeutic benefits offered by our wild places are perhaps more vital now than ever before. Whether you’re an active trail runner or the sedentary type, the forest always has a lesson to teach, and good medicine to offer. Sometimes all we need is an invitation, and a little guidance. Forest Therapy Walks with Tamara have been modified to allow for physical distancing, and can be booked through Free Spirit Tours. E

CollingwoodDowntown.com Summer 2020

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by Cara Williams

RUGGED paintings by Margarethe Vanderpas

SPLENDOUR This page: detail of Island Fraser Bay, oil on canvas, 40"x 40".

Opposite page: Archipelago Georgian Bay, oil on canvas, 36"x 48".

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escarpment | art profile

Dutch-born artist Margarethe Vanderpas’ work is a vibrant recreation of the raw natural beauty of Ontario’s landscapes, forests, limestone cliffs and waterscapes.

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Collins Inlet Georgian Bay, oil on canvas, 32" x 65".

photos on my computer screen where I can see more detail and select an image that I find interesting. I will often crop the image to achieve a more pleasing composition for the painting. Sometimes I do a small oil sketch of a piece in advance of doing a larger painting in order to work out my colour scheme. On occasion I do take a sketchbook with me on a hike to capture immediate impressions of a particular place.”

Margarethe practices a traditional oil painting technique by sketching the subject onto the canvas with thinned paint first.

Once the thinned layer of paint is dry a thicker layer of paint is added using Rembrandt oil paints, known for their highquality pigments and rich jewel like quality. The oil paint is mixed with artist grade solvents to make the paint thinner for a faster drying time during the first stage of the painting.

When applying the thick layers of paint Margarethe uses a medium with her oils to enhance drying time so the paintings dry within a couple of weeks after completion.

“My process involves painting the sky last as its colour and texture must match the light and elements in the rest of the piece,” notes Margarethe. “The final step involves painting the edges of the canvas so as to continue the image. Given that the edges are painted the pieces do not require a frame.”

Throughout the summer months Margarethe will be hosting “Art In The Garden” events on all long weekends (weather permitting) at her Lions Head studio. “I have an outdoor artist tent where I will display work for sale and intend on limiting the number of people in the tent at any one time,” explains Margarethe. s

orn in the Netherlands, Margarethe Vanderpas emigrated to Canada at the age of six. Inspired as a child by the works of such masters as Rembrandt and Van Gogh, Margarethe was awed by the dramatic landscape of her new Canadian home. “About 20 years ago I ventured to the Bruce Peninsula to do some hiking and kayaking and fell in love with the area,” says Margarethe. “I was awestruck by the beautiful clear waters of Georgian Bay and the rugged coastline of the Peninsula. Both its waters and the coastline have become the subject of many of my paintings.”

Margarethe’s artwork is a passionate rendering of the raw natural beauty of Ontario’s landscapes, pristine waters, beautiful forests, limestone cliffs and waterscapes. “These are all things I love about the Peninsula. My work is inspired by the beauty I discover every time I get in my kayak or go for a hike. These experiences feed the soul and magically get translated to canvas.”

Professionally trained through her studies in Fine Art, Art History and Mathematics at Western University and Queen’s University, Margarethe obtained a Bachelor of Arts, Honours degree in Art History, and subsequently a Bachelor of Education degree.

She taught Fine Art and Mathematics for several years before transitioning careers. She now lives in Lion’s Head, Ontario and divides her time between Lion’s Head and Stratford.

Margarethe habitually explores Ontario by land and water, aiming to capture the unique worn, weathered rock formations of the Canadian Shield. Since moving to Lion’s Head, she has spent more time discovering and painting the Bruce Peninsula, in particular its unspoiled waters and rugged coastline. “Often when I am out kayaking or hiking I bring my camera with me and take a lot of photos,” explains Margarethe. “In my studio, I review the

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“Water in particular has fascinated me since childhood.

I delight in the discovery of rhythmic patterns created by light as it passes through water, by the ripples on its surface and how it transforms and distorts what lies beneath.�

Clockwise: Margarethe Vanderpas painting in Lions Head. Isthmus Bay Bruce Peninsula, oil on canvas, 36" x 48". Sacred Places Agawa Rock, oil on canvas, 30" x 72". Summer Splendor, oil on canvas, 32" x 72".

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Summer 2020

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PHOTO BY CLAY DOLAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLAY DOLAN

escarpment | art profile

s

Top: Brooding Sky Georgian Bay, oil on canvas, 30" x 48".

Bottom: Entangled Pines, oil on canvas, 36" x 36".

Margarethe has exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibits and her work can be found in private and corporate collections throughout Canada, the United States and Europe.

“There are many artists whose work I admire and who have influenced my work for different reasons. Mark Rothko for his moving juxtaposition of colour, Claude Monet for his ability to capture transient light, Vincent Van Gogh for his bold use of colour and vigorous brushwork that are so emotionally honest, and finally Tom Thomson for his inspiring, unique interpretation of the Canadian landscape.”

Margarethe is a Signature Member of the Artists For Conservation (a non-profit invitational group of nature artists from around the world) as of 2013 and her work was featured in the 2019 AFC Calendar as well as the 2019 Exhibition Catalogue. In addition to Art In The Garden, Margarethe’s studio will be open by appointment throughout the summer months. Please visit margarethevanderpas.com which features online shopping, archival limited editions on paper or canvas and art cards. Margarethe’s work is also displayed at the following Ontario galleries: Eclipse Gallery in Hunstville, Circle Arts Gallery in Tobermory, Gordon Harrison Gallery in Ottawa, Killarney Mountain Lodge in Killarney, The Westland Gallery in London, and Gallery Double T in Waterloo. E 60

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These colourful veggie side dishes and summertime sips are the perfect pairing for your BBQ mains.

TOMATO & ZUCCHINI GRATIN (recipe on page 64)

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Recipes & photography by Corynn Fowler

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TOMATO & ZUCCHINI GRATIN This summery take on a traditional gratin is fresh and light with ripe seasonal produce. It’s quick to make, and easy to pop in the oven for an hour while you head outside to BBQ the rest of your meal.

INGREDIENTS

3-4

tomatoes

3

small zucchinis

1 cup

ricotta cheese

3 Tbsp olive oil

salt & pepper

sprinkle of dried basil

1/4 cup bread crumbs

fresh basil & oregano

STEPS

s

n Heat the oven to 375F. n Mix the ricotta and olive oil until creamy. n Add salt and pepper to taste. n Slice the zucchini and tomatoes into rounds. n In a cast iron pan or ceramic baking dish, create a single layer of zucchini rounds on the bottom. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried basil leaves. Add dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture to the layer. n Add a layer of tomatoes on top of this, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried basil.

Add dollops of ricotta to the layer. n Add one more layer each of zucchini and tomatoes, following the above steps. n Sprinkle the dried breadcrumbs on top of the final layer of tomatoes. n Bake for 50-60 minutes, and serve topped with freshly chopped basil and oregano leaves.

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BROCCOLI & QUINOA SALAD WITH CREAMY LEMON YOGURT DRESSING (opposite page)

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escarpment | epicure

BROCCOLI & QUINOA SALAD WITH CREAMY LEMON YOGURT DRESSING This creamy summer salad is good for a crowd, and is a healthy, hearty side dish to serve alongside any outdoor summer BBQ meal.

INGREDIENTS

2

heads of broccoli

1/2

red onion

1 cup

uncooked white quinoa

2 cups water 1/3 cup chopped almonds

fresh kale

1 cup

plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cup olive oil 3 Tbsp lemon

3

garlic cloves

salt & pepper

STEPS

n Cook the quinoa in two cups of water. n In a small covered pot, bring it to a boil then reduce to a simmer until the quinoa is cooked and the water is gone.

Approximately 15 minutes. n Chop the broccoli heads into small florets. Peel and dice the broccoli stems as well. n Roughly chop the red onion, almonds, and kale. n Heat the almonds in a dry pan over high heat, shaking constantly, until they begin to brown and become fragrant. n To mix the dressing, blend the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic cloves, salt

and pepper until smooth. Taste for salt and pepper and adjust accordingly. n To serve, mix the broccoli, quinoa, red onion, and almonds with half the dressing. n Layer the broccoli mix on top of a bed of kale, and drizzle with the remainder of the dressing. E Corynn Fowler writes a food blog called Nourished by Corynn.Visit her at nourishedbycorynn.wordpress.com

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Margaritas–the basic concoction of fresh lime juice, orange liqueur and tequila served in a salt-rimmed glass is now considered the “classic” recipe for the drink.

sips

Summer

P

eople love to add their own twists, from frozen strawberry confections to blends made with everything from apricots to watermelon. Experimenting with high-end tequilas will add subtle flavours and allow you to create your own signature margarita.

THE CLASSIC MARGARITA

1/2 cup good Tequila

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1/2 cup Grand Marnier

n Do not float this on top but rather mix it in with the

blender.

1/3 bottle of beer (secret ingredient)

n Who knew? The best results are with a standard bland

s

n Life is too short to drink cheap tequila—the better the

tequila, the cleaner the taste (and less severe the hangover).

Experimenting with high-end tequilas will add subtle flavours and allow you to create your own signature margarita.

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beer. Avoid micro-brews with lots of character as this will leave an after-basic (non-acidic) and so the addition of beer to your margarita will make a mellow tasting, smooth drinking formula. It also adds the barest hint of carbonation during mixing.

1 can frozen lemonade

n Avoid the ones with the pulp. Sometimes you will

have to add sugar if you’ve selected a sour brand.

healthy squirt of real lemon

n This is real lemon juice concentrate and adds the

wonderful lemon tanginess a great margarita needs.

healthy squirt of real lime

n Real lime juice concentrate and also adds the lime

tartness for a subtle enhancement.

water or ice to fill up the blender

n Add half ice and half water to fill up the blender to the

top. The best margaritas are quite concentrated but then poured over a heaping full glass of ice that starts to dilute the power of the cocktail as it melts. Try serving these straight up in a margarita glass or a martini glass. Shake it up on the rocks and pour it in. This promotes more of a sipping approach (very fast sipping often, but still technically still sipping.)

sugar to taste

n As you are completing the mix portion in the blender,

you may choose to add sugar to tast. By doing it in the blender you don’t have to worry about a granular texture in the drinks. E PEACH MARGARITA 1-1/2 ounces Tequila 1 ounce Peach Schnapps 1 teaspoon Triple Sec

escarpmentmagazine.ca

1-1/2 ounces Tequila 1/2 ounce Triple Sec

1 ounce lime juice or juice of half a lime

1/2 ounce Chambord raspberry liqueur

salt-rimmed glass

4 ounces lime juice or sour mix

Shake well with ice and strain into salt-rimmed cocktail glass.

Serve with a lime wedge.

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Words & pictures by Shelby Worts

ROME I Colosseum and Palatine Hill

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In the weeks leading up to my departure date the virus that had started in China was now becoming an issue in Northern Italy, which led me to a choice: do I listen to the Government of Canada Travel advisory or the media? I chose the former and to continue with my plans to travel since there were no immediate dangers in Rome, and COVID-19 had not been declared a pandemic by the WHO. In Rome I remained. Many people are curious as to why I chose to stay in Italy after our government issued an alert to repatriate—I have three reasons. First, I felt staying put may be safer than the 23+ hour travel options available at that time via several airports and risk of mid-journey cancellations (airlines had already canceled all direct flights). Second, if Italy lifted the lockdown after only a few weeks, then I would have missed a

s

n 1994, the seed was planted. I saw Much Ado About Nothing, by Kenneth Branagh, and fell in love with the landscape & architecture of Tuscany. Years later I bought Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love audiobook, which plays in a loop on my iPod when my mind becomes busy in the night. So, it was no surprise that in February 2019, when my husband suggested I take a sabbatical from work, within a heartbeat of his surprise statement I immediately knew where I would be going. Italy. And so, began a year of preparation for my three months abroad; morning coffee was accompanied by YouTube videos about solo travel, Italy in general, neighbourhoods of Rome, packing tips, etc. Departure date came—after much anticipation I arrived in Rome on March 3rd, 2020. One week later the country went into lockdown.

Collingwood Naturopath Shelby Worts landed in Italy mere days before the country went into lockdown—from being quarantined alone in a foreign country, to gaining unprecedented access to the world’s most notorious historical landmarks, this was an experience of a lifetime.

ALONE Pantheon

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Roman Forum

Trevi Fountain

s

big opportunity to explore it. And finally, I couldn’t help but wonder ‘What if this is the experience I am meant to have—being challenged?’ Allow me to elaborate on the final point. For many years I have acknowledged that I grow the most when outside my comfort zone. This is likely what attracted me to canoe tripping at Glen Bernard Camp, a three-week Outward Bound program in the Pacific Coast Mountains, and choosing Dalhousie back when local high school grads rarely left the province for university. So, as I spent hours pondering whether to jump on a flight home before Canada closed its borders, I pondered if I would be running from an opportunity to grow and be challenged. As you can probably see by now, I chose growth.

Although I did face many challenges I never felt unsafe, and for that I am grateful.

I had an apartment secured for three months, my host lived in the neighbourhood, and I had access to fresh food and a patio with several hours of sunshine each day. I could do this.

Being in a country where you don’t know the language (I was planning to learn it through daily interactions—ha!), becomes especially challenging during a pandemic when all the rules change (and keep changing), and they are written in the native language.

The majority of tourists were long gone, so businesses had no reason to post signs in English. Consequently, I learned by observing the behaviours of others; how to enter stores; when to approach the cashier; how to navigate the farmers market; etc. With all the waiting in lines I could also begin to recognize common words (‘orario’, followed by times) on signs and begin to figure out their meaning (‘hours’ or ‘schedule’). Last year, when I chose Italy as my destination, did it cross my mind to be deterred by the fact I know neither the language nor any locals? Actually, no—likely because I was fortunate to be raised by “you can do anything you put your mind to” parents. I am grateful for that, too.

March was the most difficult month— sitting alone in a small apartment and only permitted to leave home for the grocery store or pharmacy. I was required to keep a document on me explaining why I was out of the house and if asked, show it to police.

In April I was permitted to ‘exercise’ within 500m of home, so you can be sure I mapped

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out the radius from my door and went for a one hour walk each night! In May the 500m restriction was lifted, and out I went—walking for five to six hours each day, and visiting all the sites I had been longing to see but could only view from my hilltop lookout each evening. Imagine being alone on the Spanish Steps, at Trevi Fountain, and at the Pantheon. In short, it was unreal. In June the museums, galleries, and monuments began to reopen. I was one of the first through the door at Vatican Museums, and with the entry limited to less than ten percent the normal volume of visitors, it felt like I had the place to myself. St. Peter’s Basilica was a similar experience—as one person remarked on a photo, it was like having movie star status private viewing!

What have I learned and how have I grown? I have learned that nodding and smiling to people on the street makes you stand out as a foreigner (often received with a sincere “Where are you from?” and a positive reaction when I reply “Canada!”).

Older Italians are not deterred by you not speaking their language (if they don’t know English they’ll just keep speaking Italian with a smile and grander gestures). And Italian artisanal gelato definitely deserves its own food category. However, the most significant lesson is how important it is to have human contact—to touch someone and be touched. I hadn’t realized I was missing it until one day in early May I was reminded of its absence. I was standing in the park focused on taking a photo when a child, mistaking my legs for her mother’s, reached out and leaned against me. It was only for a brief moment but my whole body hummed with sensation for the remainder of the walk. I have read about the importance of touch and the detriment of it being withheld, but this is my first experience with its extended absence. I personally enjoy physical contact; I’m a hugger and often reach out and touch an arm or hand while engaged in conversation or laughter. These past months have made me much more aware of the importance of physical contact with others, and how vital it is to our overall well-being and mental health. I have decided to apply

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Summer 2020

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escarpment | travel

Colosseum

Bridge to Castel Sant’Angelo

St. Peter’s Basilica

this experience in my practice, which will include being attentive to who may be living with minimal physical contact, and to incorporate appropriate touch at each appointment; such as the taking of blood pressure or pulse, and actually making contact when doing a skin exam (rather than simply looking at it).

I am writing this in mid-June, and besides that moment in the park I am realizing my last physical contact was March 6th (a hug from a fellow attendee at the end of a food tour), and that’s too long. I can hardly wait to hug my husband at the airport next week—and just may never let go.

And now I sit on a high-speed train, en route back to Rome after a few days exploring Florence (we have recently been allowed to travel within the country!) I visited the Uffizi Gallery and 78

escarpmentmagazine.ca

Spanish Steps

basilicas, ate gelato and street sandwiches, shopped in artisan shops—the place is a feast for the senses! I am grateful to have had a brief experience of seeing a bit more of Italy, even if it was not the ‘immerse myself in Italian culture’ I had intended for this three-now-four-month sabbatical. Still hungry for the experience, I am looking forward to a do-over in a couple years’ time. In the meantime, I am heading home to family, my friends, and to support my hometown economy. See you soon—I should be out of mandatory isolation by the time this goes to print, and as soon as it is allowed I shall welcome a hug!

I have posted a collection of photos from my time in Italy on Facebook and Instagram (@shelbyworts) and welcome you to view them.

E

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MODERN TAKE escarpmentmagazine.ca 80 80 escarpmentmagazine.ca

by Cara Williams photography Clay Dolan

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When Kim and Rick McMaster purchased this sprawling Creemore property, an abandoned farmhouse sat vacant among the lush vegetation and mature maple trees. The couple enlisted the help of Ken and Gord Zeggil of Ken Zeggil Construction Inc. and together created a home that seamlessly combines innovative architecture with contemporary design.

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“SOME PEOPLE WOULD ASK WHAT WE SAW IN THE PROPERTY, THE SETTING REMINDS US OF TRAVELS IN ITALY AND HIKING IN BRITISH COLUMBIA. THIS IS THE ENVIRONMENT WE LIKE.” 82

escarpmentmagazine.ca

T

s

he property was a standout—edged with lush farmland and rolling hills, a long driveway lined with tall maples—it looked like something out of a Jane Austen novel.

“We’re alwawys looking at real estate, even if we’re not interested in buying,” says Kim McMaster. Kim’s husband Rick had been doing some work for the township when he came across this expansive property just above the village of Creemore. “It was for sale and Rick came home all excited about the romantic driveway with the tall trees bordering it and the magnificent view.

He brought me out and we had a look.”

Seeing the potential (and looking past the structurally worrisome original farmhouse with its cedar block foundation) Kim and Rick made an offer.

“We love architecture and seeing what other people have done,” says Kim. “Initially we thought we could renovate.

But when we started looking into it, it didn’t look like a very good option.” The little farmhouse was not only unsightly and neglected, it was completely inhabited by racoons. “Some people would ask what we saw in the property,” adds Rick. “The setting reminds us of travels in Italy and hiking in British Columbia. This is the environment we like.”

Kim and Rick wanted to build a home that would honour the view, as well as work with their lifestyle. The couple enlisted the help of Ken and Gord Zeggil of Ken Zeggil Construction Inc. and together they created a stunning architectural masterpiece, designed for main floor living.

This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home features 16-foot ceilings in the great room and magnificent panoramic south views of Creemore Valley. “We’re fascinated by modern design,” says Rick. “We had seen a similar home and knew we wanted to be completely self-sufficient on the main floor, as well as capitalize on the views. We prefer round light—there are no real shadows in any of the rooms. There are windows in all directions so during the summer months it’s almost not necessary to turn the lights on.”

Simple, uncluttered and practical was the objective in the kitchen, which was designed by Ken and Gord Zeggil with input from Kim. “The Zeggils were Summer 2020

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wonderful to work with,” says Kim. “This kitchen is the perfect size and is very functional.” Contemporary custom walnut cabinets flank the sleek cook top and oven while the oversized granite counter/breakfast bar serves a dual purpose of separating the kitchen and dining areas as well as acting as additional storage. “I was drawn to the walnut and white combination. I wanted to bring that into the island somehow so we did this with wrap around floating shelves.”

An adjacent door provides easy access to the outdoor living and dining space, and the couple spends most summer nights dining alfresco. “Everything is in close proximity but if we’re both in the kitchen we’re not tripping over each other.”

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above picking up shades of turquoise and gold around the room. “Most of the furniture was bought to suit, but my Dad built the dining table and buffet,” says Kim. The couple sourced furniture from a variety of stores including Georgian Design Centre.

The master ensuite is beautiful in its simplicity, with an abundance of natural light. The generous marble shower runs the length of the wall and features a polished stainless-steel, rain-shower head.

Stark white quartz countertops and his and her sinks with walnut cabinetry by Zeggil’s add warmth and luxury to the space.

In the master bedroom a dreamy upholstered platform bed floats above a decidedly retro white shag carpet. “We wanted to

s

“We ran into lots of challenges when we were building,” says Kim. “Because it is a more contemporary, modern design there are certain things, design wise that you do to make it work. Not having done this before there were decisions to be made. When it came to lighting I was stumped.” Kim scoured lighting catalogs and eventually found a trio of black orbs which float above the sitting area as well as a contemporary metal light fixture which hovers above the dining room table. “I love that this chandelier doesn’t distract from the view—it’s low profile, yet interesting.” The centrepiece of the great room is undoubtedly the linear Napoleon gas fireplace, which evokes relaxation and indulgence.

One of Kim’s own paintings hangs

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below us is a working field,” says Rick. “It’s lovely to come down here and relax—the views are everchanging. Last year was wheat and this year its beans. Its fun to watch it grow throughout the summer months.” Two additional bedrooms on the lower level await Kim and Rick’s guests which often include their children and grandchildren. The fourth bedroom currently acts as Rick’s office.

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maximize the view as much as possible so we went with lots of windows—as a result, the light in here is incredible at all times of the day.” With 3010 sq ft of finished space, the main floor covers approximately 1800. “Everything we need is on this floor,” says Kim. “It’s the perfect size for a couple, completely self-sufficient.”

Downstairs the walkout family room boasts even more incredible views and features a games table, wet bar, multiple couches for lounging and an entertainment unit. “The field

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“WE HAD SEEN A SIMILAR HOME AND KNEW WE WANTED TO BE COMPLETELY SELF-SUFFICIENT ON THE MAIN FLOOR, AS WELL AS CAPITALIZE ON THE VIEWS.”

been wonderful to spend time in my studio.”

Showcasing texture and dimension, the exterior of the home is a combination of cedar, Eramosa stone and stucco.

Generations old maple trees dot the property, which Kim and Rick were careful not to disturb during the build.

The couple enjoys gardening in their retirement and chose low maintenance, high impact dark black mulch to surround a forest of vibrant green and white perennials. “It gets quite

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serves as Kim’s artist studio which is connected to the garage.

“I’ve always loved dabbling in art, but up until the time I retired I didn’t really have a lot of extra time to paint,” says Kim. “Rick’s mother was an artist and I spent a fair bit of time painting with her. The more time you spend doing it, the more time you grow as an artist. I’ve taken some workshops with local Creemore artist Sue Miller. This spring with the COVID lockdown was the most time I’ve ever had to really concentrate on my art. It’s

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windy up here so we built a privacy fence which does double duty protecting us from the elements,� says Kim. Underfoot the patio is comprised of Eramosa stone and poured concrete, with limestone steps leading down to the 92

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farmers field below. With the closest neighbour being several hundred metres away the McMasters’ home is idyllic, private, functional and tranquil.

The perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy retirement.

E

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

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Summer

ESSENTIALS

for your home Clear your home of unwanted energy and protect your own energy with this smudging kit.

KOKORO | 952 2ND AVE EAST OWEN SOUND | 519.470.5070 KOKOROSALTCAVE.COM

Inspired by French cuisine, culture, art and style, these La Rochere artisanal glasses are modern, elegant and dishwasher safe.

BAREBRICH 975 2ND AVENUE EAST, OWEN SOUND | 226.664.2273 BAREBIRCH.CA

This five-light chandelier features tiers of wooden rods on curved iron arms and a whitewash finish.

THE BEACH HOUSE | 2-24 ALBERT STREET SOUTH SOUTHAMPTON | 226.435.2325 | THEBEACHHOUSE.CA

Add a touch of nature while elevating any space with these elegant cement Goddess head planters, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Newport Adirondack Chair

by Telescope Casual Furniture built in North America.

THE FYRE PLACE & PATIO SHOP 717861 HIGHWAY #6 OWEN SOUND (SPRINGMOUNT) 519.371.2963 | THEFYREPLACE.COM

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ACCENTS KINCARDINE 764 QUEEN STREET 519.396.3434 ACCENTSGIFTSHOP.COM

Concrete and ceramic Hagi lamps.

Large, H 67cm; Dia: 39cm; Small, H 54cm; Dia: 35cm ARTHUR CASH & CARRY 101 SMITH STREET | ARTHUR | 519.848.6320

LIFESTYLE & HOME DARLENEWATSONARTIST.COM

Summer

ESSENTIALS

for your home

‘Sunset Lichen Covered Rock’ oil on canvas, size: 20” x 48” MARGARETHE VANDERPAS STUDIO 24 CHETWYND LANE LION’S HEAD | 519.433.2840 MARGARETHE-VANDERPAS.COM

Reclaimed wood products and custom furniture fabricated from locally salvaged, century-old materials.

TIMELESS MATERIAL CO. 305 NORTHFIELD DRIVE E | WATERLOO | 519.883.8683 194 NORTH RANKIN ST. | SOUTHAMPTON | 519.797.9994 TIMELESSMATERIALS.COM

Summer 2020

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Summer

ESSENTIALS

for your home ‘Be the Light’ by Patricia Gray 8-1/2" x 38" framed acrylic on gallery style wood panel.

MERAKI ART 240 EAST ROAD, LION’S HEAD 705.475.6248 BLACKSPRUCESTUDIO.COM

Relax on your front porch this summer with a comfortable rocker from C.R. Plastic Products. Now available in Light Grey.

THE RUSTY STAR | 408065 GREY ROAD 4 MAXWELL | 519.922.2010 | THERUSTYSTAR.CA

Make something beautiful and feed your creativity from the safety of your own home with this pre-cut coloured glass mosaic art kit. Finished product is 12"x 10".

THE GEORGIAN BAY CENTRE FOR THE ARTS 938 2ND AVENUE EAST | OWEN SOUND 519. 371.2200 | GBARTS.CA

‘All That Is Good’ by Mark Nadjiwan 14" x 18" pen and ink on illustration board.

MERAKI ART | 240 EAST ROAD, LION’S HEAD 705.475.6248 | THREETREESART.COM

Maximize your summer sips with a durable YETI cooler.

And these aren’t your run-of-the -mill mugs—they’re shatterproof, supremely insulated, and work for more than just a classic cup of joe.

WIARTON HOME HARDWARE 010189 HWY. 6 BERFORT STREET WIARTON | 519.534.2232 WIARTONHHBC.COM

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Find us in bright homes everywhere...

Quality Products

Quality Service Orangeville Showroom Mono Plaza, Unit B2 633419 Highway 10 (3 km N of Orangeville) 519.941.7208 800.668.2087

Thornbury Showroom King’s Court Plaza 99 King St. E. (Hwy 26) 519.599.6252 800.347.7724

w w w. c e d a r p o r t . c a Summer 2020

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escarpment | fashion

Swimsuit, bag and hat from Brabary, Dowtown Collingwood.

JILLIAN DILTS Jillian is an Aesthetician and makeup artist and has been living in The Blue Mountains for seven years. Last June Jillian opened Ontario’s first Airstream mobile spa.

“The Spa Truck” is a 1962 Vintage Airstream and has been fully renovated into a boho-chic self-care sanctuary on wheels.

escarpmentmagazine.ca 98 98 escarpmentmagazine.ca

hazy,lazy days of

summer Photographyw by Robin Waters & Clay Dolan

Whether you’re dipping a toe or cruising the strip, our local retailers have everything you need for a sizzling summer.

Summer 2020

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escarpment | fashion

KIMBERLEY ROBINSON Kimberley is the owner and creative mind to the lovely hand-lettering and calligraphy you see spread around the Simcoe county, @yourtype.letteringco “I know what I do may seem old fashioned but I appreciate the time it takes to make something from your own hands.

I’m a big believer in being apart of a community. You can do cool things on your own but raise your voice.

When you have people around you who love and support you and who care about things you care about, you can do even more.”

All clothing from Furbelows, Thornbury.

100 escarpmentmagazine.ca

escarpment | fashion

All clothing from Lifted, Blue Mountain Village.

JILLIAN DILTS

Summer 2020 101

escarpment | fashion

SUE HODGKINSON A lifetime Escarpment local, Sue is now living in the heart of Duncan with her family. Self-employed, Sue runs a lawn and garden business.

“During down time I can be found tucked away in my shop. With my chain saw in hand, tin snips, feathers and glue I create and sell owls and birds of a feather.”

Hat, swimsuit & coverup

Cherchez La Femme, Thornbury.

102 escarpmentmagazine.ca

escarpment | fashion

All clothing from

Lac Boutique, Southampton.

KIMBERLEY ROBINSON

Summer 2020 103

PROMOTION

NEW VENTURES BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

individual expression. Her primary goal is to boost each patient’s selfconfidence through natural looking personal enhancement.

The discreet entrance to the

her skills to ensure she stays current with the latest technology and techniques.

From teenagers struggling with acne to mature clients wishing

Located in the heart of Collingwood, Quaintrelle offers expert Medical Aesthetics including dermal-fillers, skin renewal, thermal contraction, laser hair removal, along with medical grade skin care lines Alumier and Oxygenetix. Owner Carey Gurney, who attended the Dorothy Wylie Health Leaders Institute, personifies Quaintrelle’s emphasis of a life of passion and

clinic, located on quiet Elgin Street in downtown Collingwood, ensures clients’ privacy, while the intimate spa setting promotes relaxation and rest. Having worked alongside several top plastic surgeons throughout her career, Carey discovered a niche for helping others become the best version of themselves—she believes that selfcare is essential to self-assurance and renewed confidence. As the owner and practicing treatment provider at Quaintrelle, Carey is dedicated to continually updating

to soften the signs of aging, consultations are complimentary, individualized to each specific client and are strictly confidential. Carey has the knowledge, eye and skill set to help you obtain your personal goals, and she looks forward to customizing your individual plan. For more information and a complete list of services, contact Carey Gurney at Quaintrelle Medical Aesthetics. quaintrellemedical.com 43 Elgin St, Collingwood, 226.898.6612

THE GEORGIAN BAY CENTRE FOR THE ARTS The Georgian Bay Centre for the Arts (known as ‘GB Arts’) is an all new multi-studio “makers space” with an emphasis on art and fine craft. The idea behind GB Arts began two years ago as an initiative from artists of the Owen Sound Artist’s Co-operative, then split from the Co-op last year when it was incorporated as a not-forprofit. Owners and fellow artists Moarg Budgeon and Alan McIntosh

have relied heavily on their vast network of artists/friends to assist in the set up and development of GB Arts.

Moarg, who studied jewellery at Georgian College, and Alan, who went to the Ontario College of Arts and Design, created GB Arts because of their understanding of the needs of the local arts scene. Featuring a metal studio with multiple workbenches, a pottery area, stained glass studio, multi-press printing studio and a classroom space for nontechnical workshops, GB Arts is a stimulating space which inspires artists of all mediums. “GB Arts is a unique business in that there is no other facility like it in the Grey Bruce area,” says Morag. “The Centre runs

workshops, seminars, masterclasses, there is an open studio for artists and we rent the space out for public events. We hire local artists as instructors as well as artists who offer skill development opportunities for our students.

We’ve just opened a licensed cafe in the front window called ‘Palette’ that serves coffee and snacks.”

The Palette Café has been a great addition to the centre and provides additional exposure for the Centre, while providing sustenance to those creating art.

For more information on summer programming, kids camps and workshops visit their website. gbarts.ca 938 2nd Ave. E, Owen Sound

QUAINTRELLE MEDICAL AESTHETICS

104 104 escarpmentmagazine.ca

Studios celebrates Canada’s vivid

interior world.

landscapes as well as stunning Indigenous and First Nations art.

Growing up in a very isolated

The subject matter and style of artist Mark Nadjiwan is predominantly inspired

region of Northern Canada, Patricia Gray developed a close kinship

by his First Nation heritage, which is grounded in the Georgian

with the natural world, which is

Bay and Lake Superior regions.

MERAKI ART STUDIOS

the basis for her art. Painting

A self-taught artist, Mark’s

HOME OF BLACK SPRUCE

on birch boards, she allows the

chosen medium is pen and ink

STUDIO & THREE TREES ART Artists Patricia Gray and Mark

physicality of her materials to reveal the innate qualities of the

and his personal style is primarily a unique fusion of the Woodland

Nadjiwan are proud to announce

Canadian wilderness that she

and Northwest Coast Native

the opening of their new studio

depicts. Working with a wide

art traditions. In his work, one

and Gallery in Lions Head on the beautiful Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula. Meraki means “to do something with soul, creativity, or love, to put something of your own essence into your work.”

Specializing in the sale of original art, limited editions, matted prints, and art cards, Meraki Art

array of acrylic paints, gels, pastes, and grounds, Patricia creates enchanting relief, designs, and highly textured surfaces that engage the viewer. Her bold colour palette and fluid style give her landscapes a presence that captures the essence of the wilderness while unveiling a vivid

can often see the Woodland’s characteristic X-Ray and wavy line motifs interwoven with the clean form-lines and geometry that often typify Northwest Coast art. blacksprucestudio.com & threetreesartcom 240 East Road, Lion’s Head, ON

Escarpment_½ McIntee Fall.19.qxp_½ page H 2020-07-01 10:47 AM Page 1

First Phase

SOLD OUT

MEAFORD GOLF MEWS is a new life lease development on the Meaford Golf Course. This scenic, 18 hole golf course has been operational since 1934. There will be 40 life lease units—4 fourplexes and 12 semis, with prices starting at $461,040 (HST Included). Customizable layout options available including walk-out basements and single story, main floor living units. Construction is underway with occupancy this Summer.

ivan@arealagent.com Tel: 519-538-3240 ext 1003 Cell: 519-270-2356

dale@arealagent.co dale@arealagent.com Tel: 519-538-3240 ext 1004 Cell: 519-373-7635

408 Ridge Road, Meaford, Ontario, N4L 1L8 Tel: 519-538-3240 Fax: 519-538-5869

Summer 2020 105

Escarpment_1/4 MJoel.fall.16.qxp_Quarter page vertical 2016-09-19 6:59 AM

705.444.0272

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Cell: 705.445.9755

escarpment | market watch

Without Precedent Desmond von Teichman Broker of Record, Owner, Royal Le Page Locations North Realty, Brokerage

A

one undergrad, and one high school student. My kids, while desperately needy for internet, are largely self sufficient and the blessing for my wife and I is that we will look back on this as some of the best and unexpected family time ever! Other friends of mine with younger kids had to suffer through homeschooling, bored kids, and balancing work and home lives within the confines of four walls. My parents, who I would say are high-risk in this pandemic, have had to reinvent their lives.

But we are all making it work.

Some people are not as fortunate.

At a time where we all needed to seek shelter in our homes, ‘our homes’ were a nightmare for some. My brokerage has long been a supporter of My Friend’s House in Collingwood. The need for shelter for women and children fleeing domestic abuse has never been greater.

So, no… we were not all in the same boat. But we were in the same storm.

What about the market? I’ll share the details below, but the numbers of properties sold in April and May crashed to levels unseen in living memory. Everyone

was sheltering in place. Only essential transactions were taking place. Essential; meaning people who had sold their home and had nowhere to live; people who had bought pre COVID and NEEDED to sell. In any event, how do you do a transaction without being able to be physically present? Well… we figured it out, just like everyone else.

Face-to-face meetings were replaced with Zoom virtual meetings and presentations. Open houses were replaced with virtual events and video walk-throughs.

Documents were signed electronically. At our brokerage, web traffic soared as people went online to shop instead of driving around a neighbourhood. In the beginning, lead counts from our websites stayed low despite the increased traffic. However, as consumer confidence started to return, our inbound leads for our clients grew to levels far beyond our forecasts.

A wise man told me that there are no experts in the wake of an unprecedented event, and this market is certainly without precedent. The CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) feels that we s

s I sit down to write the Market Watch in mid June, I have a sense of Déjà vu. It seems to me that I just did this. But when I look at my calendar, that was in early March. A quarter of a year ago. It feels like just yesterday, but the world has changed.

When I wrote my last piece, a state of emergency had been declared. Things were changing rapidly, but few of us anticipated how dramatic would be the effect on the economy, and on our lives. Home became so much more to us than it was before.

Everything we loved about where we live became manifest, along with all the stuff we didn’t like. Home improvement went from hobby to full time job for many.

Homeschooling, family dinner, laughter, boredom; everything mingles together when home becomes the undisputed center of our universe.

In the beginning, I heard a lot that “we are all in the same boat”. Over time, we came to realize that was not exactly true. My kids are 22, 20 and 17. One university graduate with an online job,

Summer 2020 107

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Southern Georgian Bay MLS® Volume Sales as of June 15 2018 vs 2019 vs 2020

are in for a significant correction to the tune of a 9-18% decrease in average house price over the next 12 months that won’t balance out again until 2022. Others, including Royal LePage, RBC, HSBC and others are forecasting only minor dips in prices IF the COVID effect is sustained.

There are no experts, but I am on the side of the optimist for our market.

I think one of the lasting societal changes we will see post COVID 19 is the notion that you can be productive while working from home. If this is the case, I think that people will think about the three L’s (Location, Location, Location) in a different way than they used to. It will be less important to have a short commute to work and more important that you love where you live. Matthew Ferrara recently postulated that we will redefine the three L’s to be something closer to Location, Lifestyle and Leadership. The first two are pretty obvious. The third is important.

Leadership in a community where you are known. Where you can make a difference on a small scale. Where you can lead your family in a new way that is perhaps not as “routine” as it once was.

Any guesses what kind of a community might be ideal for this kind of a thought process? You get three guesses and the first two don’t count.

Regarding Southern Georgian Bay’s real estate sales, the 2020 market has been like no other, with record highs early in the year, a precipitous fall due to COVID-19, and now—hopefully—the beginnings of what might be a big upturn.

January and February saw record 108 escarpmentmagazine.ca

Southern Georgian Bay MLS® Sales By Month as of May 31 2018 vs 2019 vs 2020 Units

volume sales, with the two months together up 32% from 2019 and 17% from 2017’s previous record. Then came March, truly ‘a tale of two markets’ due to COVID-19. The first half saw record volume, up 7% from 2017’s previous high, while the second half fell 47% below 2017. The market then hit bottom in April, with volume of just $34,170,700, the month’s least since 2006, while April’s 67 unit sales were by far the fewest on record. May then bounced back with $77,681,650 in volume which, however, was down 45% from May 2017’s record.

That brings us to June which, as of this writing, has given us a huge market rebound. The month’s first half saw $77,770,062 in volume: less than one average sale short of May 2017’s alltime, half-month record of $78,244,048!

And June’s first-half average sale price of $627,178 is up 23% from a year ago. So, is the regional market—the one we’ve marveled at for the last five or six years— back? I don’t think anyone is willing to go that far just yet, but it is certainly showing promise. Things are buzzing again.

The year-to-date totals are actually pretty good, given what we’ve gone through. As of mid-June, volume of $418,339,314 is down 7% from last year and 24% from 2017’s benchmark.

The good news is that the year-to-date, average sale price of $592,549 is up 11%, 21%, 23%, 61% and 73% from the last five years respectively.

On the units’ side, sales of 706 are down 16% from 2019 and 43% from 2016’s record. Those sales came on 1405 new listings, generating a sales/listings

ratio of 50.2% for all of 2020—a borderline seller’s market.

As far as units by price go, sales in the Under-$500K bracket—which has accounted for 50% of 2020’s sales—are down 26% from 2019. Sales in the $500K-$999K bracket—which account for 41% of 2020’s sales—are down 9% from 2019. And sales in the $1M+ bracket— which account for 9% of this year’s sales —are up 40% from 2019.

When it comes to sales by property type, single-family homes have volume of $353,433,025, down 6% from 2019, with the average sale price of $635,371 up 13%. Unit sales of 556 are down 17% from last year. Condo volume of $64,986,209 is down 9% from 2019, while units of 150 are down 13%. The average price of $432,709 is up 4%.

I ended my last market watch by saying the following: “But… and it is a big but… once this passes, and it most surely will, I think our market is going to get shot out of a cannon again. ” While the last few months have been rocky, and the data bears this out, the data we see from the depths of the pandemic does not tell the whole story.

As I write this piece, my team is busy.

Transactions are climbing, inventory is coming on, the market is heating up. This too is borne out by short-term data. There are no experts in unprecedented times, but the fundamentals have not changed.

If anything, they are getting stronger. My bet is that this will bear fruit, and the short-term trend we are seeing at the time of writing will continue apace. E

DUE TO COVID -19 OUR REALTORS ARE DONATING ®

...THEIR USUAL ADVERTISING SPACE TO SUPPORT A LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS OR CHARITY THAT IS SPECIAL TO THEM.

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SHERRY RIOUX** Sherry@Rioux BakerTeam.com

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CRAIG DAVIES* Craig@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

DAVID HOLMAN* David@ RiouxBakerTeam.com

RHONDA RONSON* Rhonda@ RonsonRealtor.ca

STEPH RUMFORD* Steph@@BuyandSell Collingwood.com

BRENDA CROWDER+ BrendaCrowder@ ClairwoodRealEstate.com

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ClairwoodReal Estate. com Original artwork shown here is the property of Park Sign and must not be used, altered or reproduced without written permission form Park Sign.

PARK SIGN DIGITAL IMAGING

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COLLINGWOOD 705.445.7085

23 YEARS

2009

Visit www.ParkSign.com to Browse Thousands of Promotional Products

24 Stewart Road, Collingwood, ON L9Y 4K1 Voice: (705) 444-1723, Fax: (705) 444-1722 e-mail: bwhite@parksign.com wendy@parksign.com Website: www.parksign.com

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Summer 2020 109

INVESTORS OPPORTUNITY

MLS #263889

$395,000

104 Campbell Street

SOLD

Connie & Bill

THOMPSON

Recently upgraded 2 bdrm, 2/1 bath. This end unit townhouse boasts lots of natural light, a cozy gas fireplace and a finished walkout basement.

705-888-0808

3+1 Beds, 3/1 Baths townhome mins from Blue Mountain. Monterra Ridge offers a private community, seasonal pool & 24 hour shuttle service. Gorgeous Ski Hill Views from your back patio!

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WOOLHAM RIVARD

$1,499,000

Location!! Gorgeous custom-built, hill-top home with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, many incredible features including a swimming pond, inlaw suite, geothermal heat and more! Visit gregsyrota.team for info

Broker/ Owners

705-888-1219 705-770-8855

$5,000,000

OVER 6 ACRES IN THE HEART OF COLLINGWOOD! High visibility, lots of traffic. Property being sold as vacant land, building is of little value. Building Dimensions 98 x 32. (3000 Sq. Ft.).

Collingwood, ON L9Y 2L7

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MACLEOD

Sales Representative's

705-441-4893 705-444-7471

Aqua Luxury Condo

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ABAIMOVA Broker

705-888-8979

MLS #268164

$549,900

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from your private patio or the heated pool.Totally upgraded 3 bedroom unit with hardwood flooring throughout, granite counters in kitchen and bathrooms. Spacious open concept living area with gas fireplace and walkout to patio and beach.

Carole

KNEESHAW

Sales Representative

705-790-1463

HOME TO BE BUILT 223 BATTEAUX ROAD

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BOWER

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705-443-1827

COLLINGWOOD 705-445-5640 41 Hurontaio Street

millennium.c21.ca

$385,000

MLS #266171

Industrial Development

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705-795-0953

3 bedroom open concept condo, recently renovated.

End unit with private patio Infloor heating and gas fireplace.

Breathtaking Views

MLS #251711

Sales Representative

108 Escarpment Crescent

$639,900

MLS #224050

BRENNAN

Collingwood home 3 bedroom,2 bath . Renovated CollingwoodRealEstateGuy.ca

Brokers

MOUNTAIN VIEWS

MLS #260670

Steven

MLS #248650

$1,185,000

Spacious 4 bdrm., 4 bath home in prime Collingwood Location. Open living space & full finished Basement. Picture is a facsimile*

THORNBURY 519-599-3300 1 Bruce Street North Thornbury, ON N0H 2P0 Each Office is Individually Owned and Operated.

Wayne

CORNFIELD Broker

705-444-7669

WASAGA BEACH 705-429-2121 1 Market Lane Unit 2 Wasaga Beach,ON L9Z 0B6

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

COLLINGWOOD/SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY 365

NEAR THE BASE OF OSLER BLUFF

INCOME POTENTIAL – COLLINGWOOD

PRIVATE HARBOUR & BASIN

$2,395,000 | MLS®200213 • Outstanding view property • 6 Bedrooms & 6 Baths • 6,700 sq. ft. finished • Att. separate living quarters • 10.5 acres WALK TO SKI AT THE ORCHARD AT CRAIGLEITH

$2,150,000 | MLS®150359 • 900 ft of private waterfront • Private concrete marina • Room for a 45 foot boat • Room for 10-12 smaller boats • Build your Dream Home LIVE & WORK ON 1 PROPERTY

NEW HOME ON THE ESCARPMENT

$1,849,000 | MLS®266529 • • • • •

Main residence & att Coach House Rent the Coach House for extra income Total of 8 Bdrms & 7 Baths 5,216 sq. ft of combined living space Walk to dwntwn shops & restaurants

$1,799,000 | MLS®237900 • Ideal for the active family • 5 Bedrooms & 4 Baths • 3,828 sq. ft. finished • Finished basement • Close to The Peaks Ski Club TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY VIEWS

WASAGA BEACH RIVERFRONT

SOLD $1,749,000 | MLS®241872 • At the base of the slopes • 5 Bedrooms & 4 Baths • 3,343 sq. ft. finished • Gunite saltwater pool • Landscaped & fully fenced

$1,474,000 | MLS®207791 • Country home on 25 acres • In-ground salt-water pool • 6,000 sq. ft industrial building • 2 acre pond & horse paddocks • 10 mins to Thornbury

$1,149,000 | MLS®259764 • Waterfront family fun for all!

• 5 Bdrms, 3 Baths & 4,785 sq. ft.

• In-law Suite with full kitchen • Multi-level waterside decking • Detached 2 car garage

$1,039,900 | MLS®261946 • Lighthouse Point Waterfront • 2nd floor condo • 3 Bedrooms & 2 Baths • Renovated with neutral décor • 1,452 sq. ft. finished

picot@rogers.com | 705-444-3452 www.ThePicotTeam.com Chestnut Park Real Estate Limited, Brokerage 393 First Street, Suite 100, Collingwood, ON, L9Y 1B3 *Sales Representative | **Executive Assistant This is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.

Photo Credit: Doug Burlock Photography

Ron Picot*

Barb Picot*

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Selling or Buying Real Estate. Huge investment, Huge decision, unprecedented market conditions. Experience counts, now more than ever. Let the professionals at RE/MAX Four Seasons Realty Limited, Brokerage show you how to keep you and your sale SAFE.

Four Seasons Realty Collingwood • Thornbury • Stayner 112 escarpmentmagazine.ca

LET OUR EXPERIENCE BE YOUR GUIDE OVERLOOKING THORNBURY

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6 |

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4,400 sq. ft.2

1,152 sq. ft.2

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3 |

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Weekend get-away or full time living just minutes away from Osler Bluff Ski Club. Lots of living space on main floor, large family room in basement.

MLS®#262037 7 |

1,173 sq. ft.2

3 |

3,289 sq. ft.2

$424,000

$639,000

Heather Blackburn* 705-730-2900

Greg Grossmann* 705-443-7093

GEORGIAN BAY MOTEL

Located downtown 600 meters from the shores of Nottawasaga Bay on a major four lane road. This12 unit motel with salt water pool, separate 2 bedroom owner’s quarters, playground and picnic facilities, is a great investment for a family business. MLS®#262372

CAMPERDOWN LUXURY RETREAT

Peace, luxury and relaxation. Historic home with elegant high-end finishes throughout; white oak floors, marble and granite. Main floor master.

MLS®#267207 5 |

31/2 |

4,068 sq. ft.2

SILVER GLEN PRESERVE

Open concept main level with oversized kitchen island and cathedral ceilings. Amazing amenities: saltwater pool, gym and sauna. MLS®#263069 4 |

3|

3,000 sq. ft.2

$729,900 Dustin Doyon* 705-795-2727 RESTAURANT & BAKERY BUSINESS

Located in Singhampton close to Devil’s Glen & Osler Ski & Golf Club. Artistic cozy interior, 3,485 sq. ft, with glass, wood & stone. Seats 28, add. 12 seats on patio. Fully equipped commercial kitchen, dining rm., bakery level.

2 |and retail 2 | on lower 1,173 sq. ft.2 MLS®#263153

$1,578,000

$2,295,000

$1,299,000

Angie Salvaitis** 705-446-6428

Darice Lush* 705-443-0741

Blair Thompson** 705-446-8507

four seasons seasons realty realtylimited, limited,Brokerage Brokerage four four seasons realty limited, Brokerage Independently Owned andOperated Operated Independently Owned and Independently Owned and Operated *sales record *salesrepresentative representative**broker **broker ***broker ***broker of record

First Collingwood 705-445-8500 6767 First St.,St., Collingwood 705-445-8500 67 First St., Collingwood 705-445-8500 47 Bruce St., Thornbury 519-599-2600 47 Bruce St., Thornbury 519-599-2600 47 Bruce St., Thornbury 519-599-2600 202 Montreal Stayner 705-428-4500 202 Montreal St.,St., Stayner 705-428-4500 202 Montreal St., Stayner 705-428-4500

www.remaxcollingwood.com www.remaxcollingwood.com www.remaxcollingwood.com

*sales representative **broker ***broker of record

Summer 2020 113

ELLEN JARMAN SELLS Recreational Real Estate in Four Prime Locations Put your real estate future in trusted hands...

FEATURED LISTING SPECTACULAR VIEW PROPERTY! $1,199,000 | MLS # 253250 Sweeping views of Georgian Bay and the Escarpment. Open concept, vaulted ceilings, post and beam accents.

3000 sf, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms.

Situated on 2.63 acres. Minutes to Thornbury or Meaford. Gorgeous!

ELLEN JARMAN SALES REPRESENTATIVE C: 705.441.2630

O: 705.445.5454

E: ellenjarman@rogers.com

Consistent Performer With Over 35 Years Experience Informed * Connected * Trusted

www.EllenJarmanRealEstate.com CHESTNUT PARK REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE This is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a broker.

Craigleith Waterfront Five bedroom, five bath,

$2,340,000

4,000 sq ft home designed

by Architect Richard Mann.

800 sq ft. rooftop lounge with fireplace and outdoor

kitchen. Soaring great room 18 ft ceilings. Servo Touch handle free kitchen. Dual high efficiency furnaces, walk in wine cooler, heated floors and expansive waterfront patio. Large break wall with concrete steps into Georgian Bay.

Sutton Group Incentive Realty

M: 705-441-4860 | O: 705-446-3991 | pmartinek@sutton.com | paulmartinek.com Summer 2020 115

www.locationsnorth.com

Home is…

a day on the course Unlock Your Future at LocationsNorth.com

PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL

PROGRESSIVE Real Estate Services

Not intended to solicit listings currently listed for sale

116 escarpmentmagazine.ca

™

Impeccably Maintained

Blue Shores Water View

Shipyards Waterfront

Executive Bungalow

3 Bedroom condo located in Appleridge. Spacious main floor with walk out to a large private deck.

Stunning, almost waterfront!

3 Bedroom, 3 bath, 2,800 sq ft, fully renovated, modern and beautiful!

Stunning 4 bedroom home in the heart of downtown. Luxury chef’s kitchen, elevator and underground parking.

Custom built 1,750 sq ft ranch bungalow in Golf View Estates, overlooking Meaford Golf Course.

Andres Paara** 705-441-3245

Christine Smith** 705-888-0201

Cindy Ryerse* 705-446-7254

Dave Loucks* 519-375-5920

$359,000 MLS® 261700

Stonebridge By The Bay 3 Bedrooms, 3 baths, with double car garage and access to a salt water pool, beach house and local trails.

$949,900 MLS® 260409

$2,275,000 MLS® 261315

Market Share #1 Georgian Triangle Brokerage

$489,000 MLS® 261677

$827,900 MLS® 242593

Wasaga Beach Bungalow Well appointed, with significant upgrades. Easy access to The World’s Longest Freshwater Beach.

$590,000 MLS® 259937

Ed Parkes* 705-791-1156

Ed Parkes* 705-791-1156

Live & Work

Beautiful Bungalow

3 Bedrooms, 1 bath, with carport and large 6 car driveway. Development potential for commercial use.

Large home in Mountaincroft with upgrades throughout!

$699,900 MLS® 257567

$449,000 MLS® 260815

Greg Weeks** 705-606-0183

Ed Parkes* 705-791-1156

Royal LePage Locations North Other Brokerages

™

Fully Renovated Restored and renovated cabin nestled at the top of Beaver Valley Ski Club.

$350,000 MLS® 255381

Karen E. Willison* 705-888-0085

New Main Floor Master

Based on MLS dollar volume sales & unit sales Jan 1st to Dec 31st 2019

Century-old Regency bungalow with new main floor master suite and 17 ft ceilings.

$1,395,000 MLS® 238337

Karen E. Willison* 705-888-0085

™

Beautifully Restored

Spectacular View

Waterfront Property

3.5 Acres In Nottawa

This 1853 building has character & charm with the comfort of an extensively renovated home.

Recently renovated 6 bedroom and 4½ bath executive bungalow set on 5 acres with 40 x 60 ft shop.

3 Bedroom, 3+ bath, end unit. Open concept. Walkout decks. Spectacular views of the bay. Outdoor pool.

Stunning raised bungalow, 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, updated throughout.

230 ft frontage on Batteaux River.

Mike Kearns* 705-888-2888

Mike Poetker* 519-373-2098

Pamela Bacchus* 416-575-9523

Rob Dubien* 705-888-0092

$550,000 MLS® 261137

$875,000 MLS® 223685

$1,339,000 MLS® 261041

$1,595,000 MLS® 261417

We have too many listings to display on this page Visit locationsnorth.com to view more * Sales Representative

** Broker

Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale

Summer 2020 117

JOSH DOLAN

REAL ESTATE BROKER TOP

2%

INDIVIDUALLY

National Gross Sales Royal LePage - 2019

TOP 3 % National Sales 2013-2018

LOT 27 GREY ROAD 40 - $1,275,000

MONACO - PH17, COLLINGWOOD - $929,400

100 Acres! Build your dream home on this stunning property conveniently located at Grey Rd 40 + Grey Rd 2. Privacy of country living + just minutes to Thornbury, Georgian Bay Club + Georgian Peaks Ski Club. Boasts beautiful Escarpment views. Also zoned for an executive 18 hole golf course.

Collingwood’s newest Premier Condo Development. The Penthouse XVII Suite; 2 bed, 2 bath + den east facing unit on the 6th flr, approx. 1,150 sq.ft. with large private balcony, Georgian Bay views and underground parking. Magnificent rooftop terrace area, fire pit and water feature.

152 PRESERVATION ROAD, COLLINGWOOD - $789,000

23 BUCKINGHAM BLVD - $950,000

Developers own unit. Fully finished 3 bdrm/3.5 bath. 100k lot premium plus upgrades; heated tile surfaces, hardwood flrs, 3 zone heat/cool system, Energy Star rated high efficiency, seasonal views of the Escarpment.

4 bedrm 4 bath Home on a large private ½ acre lot with detached 2 car garage. 3 master bedrms w/ensuites. Large bar/pool table area w/hardwood floors. Vaulted ceilings + wood burning fireplace. Stainless appliances + granite counters walking out to multi-level deck w/hot tub.

PERSONAL | PROFESSIONAL | PROGRESSIVE | REAL ESTATE SERVICES 118 escarpmentmagazine.ca

Let me PERSONALLY advise you on BUYING and SELLING in the Georgian Triangle.

joshdolan.com josh@joshdolan.com | 705-446-8404 44-127 ALFRED ST W, THORNBURY - $379,000

SIERRA WOODLANDS - PINES UNIT - $619,000

Applejack. Rare 5 bed/2 bath open concept townhome. Updated kitchen w/stainless appliances, granite counters, hardwood flooring and wood burning fireplace. Deck overlooking tennis courts.

Complex has 2 pools; 2 tennis courts and Clubhouse, located across from the Moreau park.

3 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhouse on Blueski George Cres. Large kitchen, open concept living/dining with hardwood floors and gas fireplace, large deck facing green space. Located near Craigleith, Alpine and Georgian Peaks ski clubs.

GEORGIAN BAY VIEWS - 496202 GREY RD 2 - $729,000

4 bdrm, 2 full bath renovated home on 5+ acres. Open concept kit/din/liv rm, main flr master w/ensuite, heated det. workshop. A mix of forest and cleared areas, convenient location north of Ravenna, close to Thornbury + all the areas amenities.

51-214 BLUESKI GEORGE CRESCENT - $895,000

Highly sought after Aspen model 4 bdrm, 3.5 bath townhouse. Bright upgraded unit features an open concept kitch/dining/living room, granite counters, hardwood flooring, stone fireplace, master bdroom w/large walk-in closet + ensuite, 2 large deck areas, screened in hot tub area on the back.

NOW is a great time to SELL. PERSONAL | PROFESSIONAL | PROGRESSIVE REAL ESTATE SERVICES Summer 2020 119

Dining Guide DPS. spr.2019.layout.qxp_DPS 2020-07-03 2:12 PM Page 1

DINING GUIDE Blue Mountain Inn bluemountain.ca 705.443.5508 Don’t miss Blue Mountain’s original apres-ski institution. Offering patio and takeout service with a refreshed menu of your favourite classics and new features, the friendly atmosphere and tradition of Jozo’s are alive and well.

(Georgian Bay Hotel & Conference Centre) Hwy 26 - Collingwood gustavs.ca 705.443-4461 John Garbe has assembled a team of exceptional professionals led by Chef Jeff Anderson. The menu relies on local farmers and community for unsurpassed cuisine. The service experience is firmly rooted in family and friends.

This is Gustav. Join us for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Cocktails.

90 King St E, (Hwy 26) Thornbury thornburycraft.com 519.599.2616 Our tasting room and retail store is open daily.

Enjoy a tasting flight of craft beer or cider, fill a growler or howler, tip back a pint, or just pick up some cans or bottles to go!

Our Ultra-premium craft beer boasts the craftsmanship and nature of Old World styles and we proudly craft our cider in the midst of 7,500 acres of apple orchards, right here in the heart of apple country.

Blue Mountain Inn bluemountain.ca 705.443.5509 Continuing our tradition of offering a casual atmosphere with exceptional service and creative dining experiences, The Pottery Restaurant has opened a private patio at the base of Blue Mountain Resort. Start your day off right with our classic breakfast menu, or toast to a day well spent as you watch the sun set behind the Escarpment over dinner.

698 Goderich Street - Port Elgin visitportelgin.ca 519.389.5977 Make your dining experience memorable with Italian heritage creations enhanced by local, fresh products that are evolved into new fusions of modern, Italian Gourmet tastes. Enjoy a simple weeknight meal of house made pasta or antipasti or a stone baked thin crust pizza and drinks at the bar. Celebrate your special occasions here.

Behind the TD Bank - Thornbury brucewinebar.ca 519.599.1112 We focus on sustainable quality food crafted in house. With a wood burning oven offering Neapolitan style pizza our take out menu never disappoints. Bruce Bodega opening downstairs offers products and ingredients right from our kitchen and local vendors. Bottle shop selections from our Wine Spectator award winning cellar. Unique spirits too.

18 Huron Street Collingwood (across from the BMO) Blue Mountain Village copperblues.com 705.446.2643 Experience dining at its best in a spectacular setting over looking the Village Events Plaza and the Blue Mountains. Serving lunch and dinner daily alongside our extensive wine and martini list, our talented hospitality team is here to entertain your every request. Join us for dining at its finest and service at its best!

1198 1st Ave E, Owen Sound mudtownstation.ca 519.371.3575 A fun meeting place in the east harbour of Owen Sound, come in and experience a wide variety of craft beers prepared on site in our brewery plus guest taps from other local brewers. Paired with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, we offer you a unique dinning experience.

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Hwy #26 & Bruce St. Thornbury cornercafegrill.ca 226-665-8800

crowvariety.ca 705.445.0509

The Corner is the friendly place to meet & eat, located at the main intersection in Thornbury.

Come for salads, sandwiches and more at lunch, tuck into a casual dinner with family and friends, or join us for house-made appetizers. Patio, 14 taps, 7 screens, with quieter dining up front. Local and affordable. “Meet you at The Corner!”

FOOD. BOOZE. MUSIC. Across from the old shipyards in Collingwood.

We are here to feed you or cater your next family function. From a distance of course! We are offering a great take out service. ‘Crow To Go’.

More than anything we look forward to opening our doors to you and striking up the band! Follow us on social or visit our website for updates.

126 Sykes Street North, Meaford thereddoormeaford.com. 519.538.5899

967 3rd Avenue East, Owen Sound shortysonline.ca 519.376.0044

Our goal is to provide our patrons with great tasting locally sourced food and a fun lively experience. Our focus is on supporting the local community, not just through our support of local charities but most importantly by giving back to other local business. Try our incredible slow cooked ribs, homemade sauces + burgers—never processed—we serve healthy, delicious tasting food.

Since 1996 Shorty’s has been the area favourite for food and hospitality, known for flavourful, homemade food and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a varied menu offering a large selection of fine wines, a wide selection of fine Scotch and Whiskey and the largest selection of draught beer in the area.

The ideal spot for a business lunch, family dinner, or drinks with friends.

Who you work with matters.

VILLAGE OF CREEMORE

Custom log home upgraded inside and out. Master on main plus two bedrooms 2nd. Walk to shops, galleries and restaurants.

Enjoy golf/ski clubs, beach and hiking trails. $824,900

Thornbury • Blue Mountains • Meaford Collingwood • Beaver Valley

Thornbury • Blue Mountains • Meaford Collingwood • Beaver Valley

SPECTACULAR CREEMORE VIEWS Fabulous newly built house with amazing views across Creemore valley. 3 bdrms, 3 baths, detached art studio + a two car garage with heated workshop. $1,999,998

DREAMING OF MULMER Thinking of building your dream house in the hills of Mulmur?

12+ acres of rolling land with trees that afford you privacy. Open double row of spruce trees to capture south views over picturesque farmland. Northwest views of distant hills and sunsets. Five min to Mansfield Ski Club or Bruce Trail, 15 min to Creemore and 20 min to The Mad River Golf Club. $725,000

Mike Kearns Partner Realtor ®

Helen Lightbody Realtor ®

Andres Paara Partner Broker

Becky Hunt Realtor ®

Eva Landreth Realtor ®

"They are professional in every way, and care about your well-being during the process. I would recommend the Kearns Paara Real Estate Group for anyone looking for a great real estate experience!"

www.kearnspaara.com MULMUR SANCTUARY Designed by acclaimed Toronto architects Superkul, this prototype healthy home is a sustainable multi-award winnng contemporary design. 2,125 sq ft with 2 main fl master suites. Detached 800 sq ft guest apt above 2-car garage.

Floor to ceiling triple glazed windows and skylights. Stream and spring-fed swimming pond, lush low maintenance landscaping. $2,690,000

2017 • 2018 • 2019

Summer 2020 121

escarpment | images

Aftershot

THE PHOTO “As a military spouse I am used to many changes in my life, but one thing that never changes is my love for cycling. After four beautiful years enjoying the Blue mountain region we recently moved to Trenton.

On a lovely summer day as I was cycling through the countryside, I was pleasantly surprised to see a garden of sunflowers.

I rode back home to get a better camera (Canon EOS Rebel 6) and captured these lovelies. Wherever we go there is always beauty to admire, and no matter what we are always just a bike ride away from happiness! ” E THE PHOTOGRAPHER Andrée Boucher

Tag @escarpmentmagazine or #escarpmentmagazine on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to be featured in Aftershot.

Not only will your image appear in an upcoming issue of Escarpment, but you’ll also receive a $200 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

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GRAND OPENING

BLUE MOUNTAINS NNING DR GORD CA

GREY COUNTY RO AD 19

C

WI RO S S

N DS

BLUE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

JOZO WEIDER BLVD

BLVD

PRESENTATION CENTRE GEORGIAN BAY

MONTERRA GOLF COURSE

NEW RELEASE OF LOTS This summer, discover how Blumont brings you the best of life at Blue Mountain. Choose from eighty luxurious four-season, chalet-style homes on premium sixty-foot lots, with views of the nearby Mountain and the surrounding Monterra golf course.

Play a round of golf, go sailing on the Bay, and look forward to premier skiing on the slopes in winter. At Blumont, there’s always a spectacular array of activities and amenities to indulge in through every season. Visit the presentation centre today!

STARTING FROM $890,000 PRIMONT.COM PRESENTATION CENTRE 101 STONELEIGH DR, THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

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