Winter In The HIlls 2020

Winter A

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VOLUME 27 NUMBER 4 2020

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Heroes of 2020 Highway 413 – again!

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New books & music

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F E A T U R E S 25 LOCAL HEROES

60 THE HOMECOMING

A focus on essentials: Profiles of the frontline workers who kept us all going in 2020

by Tralee Pearce, Janice Quirt, Tony Reynolds and Jeff Rollings

A young musician returns to Orangeville and is surprised by what she finds in a town she thought she’d written off

by Sara May 6 8 I S H I G H W A Y 41 3 A D O N E D E A L ?

The Ford government has resurrected the controversial highway that will cut through south Caledon, and the opposition is reloading to fight it again

by Paul Webster

36 THE YE AR IN BOOKS

Our annual review of new books by local authors and illustrators

by Tracey Fockler 47 U P T O T H E TA S K

In a roundtable discussion members of Shelburne’s antiracism task force share their stories and their hopes for change

by Tralee Pearce

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74 T H E G O O D O L D H O C K E Y G U Y

Al Waltho may have replaced two hips and a knee, but he’s not quite ready to hang up his skates

by Anthony Jenkins

56 THE YEAR IN MUSIC

Our annual review of new recordings by local musicians

by Scott Bruyea

Like the seasons, life is always changing.

“The Ann Shanahan Team gave us great advice and helped us every step of the way in selling our home. We had not moved in 44 years and to add to the dilemma, COVID! They explained everything and always answered our questions. They went above and beyond professionalism and treated us and our home with care and understanding.

Look no further than Bonnie and Ann for outstanding representation.” — B&D 2020

“We highly recommend this team — they were wonderful to work with; very professional and caring!

We had a unique property to sell — Ann and Bonnie developed an excellent strategy for marketing and succeeded in selling it in a very timely manner; a credit to their extensive knowledge of the area.” — L&B 2020

“The Ann Shanahan Team in Erin is a pleasure to work with. There was never a time when a call was not answered or returned immediately. The team was honest, concise and provided good advice when it came down to the hardest part of the process of selling our home: the offer. Our property was marketed extremely well. We would definitely use them again.” — T&R 2020

The Real Estate market changes too. Let’s talk about how these changes can impact you.

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14 L E T T E R S

78 HE A DWAT ER S NE S T

Our readers write

“Ching-ching-peek-a-boo!”

by Bethany Lee

17 A R T I S T I N R E S I D E N C E

Mary Scattergood

80 OVER THE (NE X T ) HILL

The secret to longevity

by Gail Grant

19 F I E L D N O T E S

What to hear, do, play this winter

by Janice Quirt 23 FENCE POSTS

No cause for alarm

by Dan Needles

82 AT HOME IN T HE HIL L S 54 LOCAL BUYS

What we’re shopping for this winter in Headwaters

by Janice Quirt

Home game

by Janice Quirt 98 W H AT ’S ON (AG A IN)

A calendar of winter happenings

44 HISTORIC HILLS

Alexander McLachlan: Our forgotten poet

by Ken Weber

65 FOOD + DRINK

Ghanaian goodness, pies at your door, and fresh Indian fare

by Janice Quirt

1 0 6 A P U Z Z L I N G C O N C L U S I O N

by Ken Weber

52 MADE IN THE HILL S

Designer Cristina Repanovici

by Johanna Bernhardt

76 G O O D S P O R T

Snowboarding

by Nicola Ross

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Wishing You and Your Family a Very Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year!

VOL .27 NO.4 2020

publisher and editor Signe Ball art director Kim van Oosterom Wallflower Design writers Johanna Bernhardt Scott Bruyea Tracey Fockler Gail Grant Anthony Jenkins Bethany Lee Sara May Dan Needles Tralee Pearce Janice Quirt Tony Reynolds Jeff Rollings Nicola Ross Ken Weber Paul Webster photographers Karen Dhaliwal Rosemary Hasner Kelly Lee Pete Paterson Dominique van Olm

Tazzy, Man’s Best Friend

associate editors Tralee Pearce Dyanne Rivers operations manager Cindy Caines regional sales managers Roberta Fracassi Erin Woodley advertising production Marion Hodgson Type & Images events and copy editor Janet Dimond web manager inthehills.ca Valerie Jones Echohill Web Sites on our cover Christmas Holidays

by Mary Scattergood

illustrators Shelagh Armstrong Jim Stewart

Brenda Payne*

Sheila & Mike Mullin Sales Representatives & Team Leaders

Cheryl Hagymasy*

We provide the ultimate real estate experience for buyers, sellers and investors by staying ‘On The Move’ with up-to-date information and resources.

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www.mullingroup.ca 519-941-5151 | 800-268-2455 | info@ mullingroup.ca *Sales Representatives & Licensed Assistants

In The Hills is published quarterly by MonoLog Communications Inc. It is distributed through controlled circulation to households in the towns of Caledon, Erin, Orangeville, Shelburne and Creemore, and Dufferin County. Annual subscriptions outside the distribution area are $25.95 (including HST).

For information regarding editorial content or letters to the editor: 519-942-8401 or sball@inthehills.ca.

For advertising, contact one of our sales managers: Roberta Fracassi 519-943-6822 roberta@inthehills.ca (Orangeville, Shelburne, Creemore, areas N of Hwy 9) Erin Woodley 519-216-3795 erin@inthehills.ca (Caledon, Bolton, Erin and areas S of Hwy 9) © 2020 MonoLog Communications Inc. All rights reserved.

No reproduction by any means or in any form may be made without prior written consent by the publisher.

Find us online at www.inthehills.ca Like us on facebook.com/InTheHills Follow us on twitter.com/inthehillsmag and on instagram.com/inthehillsmag The ad booking deadline for the spring (March) issue is February 5, 2021.

Canada Post Agreement Number 40015856 We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada.

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C O N T R I B U T O R S

dan needles Dan Needles’ column “Fence Posts” has appeared in this magazine since 2012. A member of the Order of Canada, Dan is a playwright and author whose work – most notably his Walt Wingfield series of stage plays – has been seen on virtually every English-speaking stage in Canada.

He received the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour for his novel, With Axe and Flask. His works are largely set in the town of Larkspur and Persephone Township, fictional stand-ins for Shelburne and Mono Township where he spent his youth. Dan now lives a few miles north of these hills on a small farm in Nottawa. There he raises sheep along with a barnyard of other creatures, and continues to write about the oddities of life in the country. In this issue, he ponders the nature of rural break-ins, wondering if he should be pleased his farm truck with cow cartoons painted on the racks has never made local thieves’ top 10 list.

Wishing you and your loved ones a pawsitively healthy holiday season!

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A contributor to this magazine for 20 years, Rosemary Hasner is a well-known local photographer and digital artist who has been published widely and received many awards for her work. She has been a director on boards including the Headwaters Arts Festival and has volunteered with the annual Headwaters Arts Show for close to a decade. In The Hills readers will be familiar with her sensitive portraits, striking landscapes and lush garden photography. Rosemary admits that going on a garden assignment is like going on a vacation. “I get lost in the beauty of every garden I shoot,” she says. (The Knowles garden, featured in our spring 2017 issue, still inspires her, she says.) In this issue, Rosemary, who lives near Mansfield, captured vivid portraits of four members of Shelburne’s antiracism task force.

valerie jones If you’ve enjoyed our work at inthehills.ca, thank Valerie Jones.

As our web manager, Valerie is responsible for transforming each issue’s slate of original stories, photos and graphics into digital masterpieces – along with various web-only projects. Valerie, who has been with In The Hills since 2011, was a key player in updating and redesigning our website to be mobile-friendly. And she is the person who ensures the magazine’s email newsletters are a must-read. When not at the helm of her business, Echohill.ca Web Sites, Valerie is an avid golfer. Her nickname, Fairway Jones, refers to her knack for hitting the ball down the middle. And she’s had three holes in one. Valerie also loves sailing and she works out the kinks on a yoga mat. Based in Barrie, Valerie is also an avid gardener.

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Has there ever in recent memory been a year that we will be so collectively happy to boot out the door?

Setting aside the horror show of American politics – from which, like watching a slow motion car crash, many of us have been unable to avert our eyes – the Covid-19 pandemic has dominated every corner of our daily lives, including, literally, the air we breathe.

But as this soul-trying year finally grinds to a close, even amid the despair of a second wave, there are plenty of signs to suggest we can take heart as we look to the future.

As I write, there is positive news that a coronavirus vaccine could be widely available as early as next spring. So that would be good. But more important is the evidence that as much as the pandemic has sown hardship, discontent and death, it may also prove a turning point, a reminder in a divided world of our collective humanity, and the things we value most about life on our common planet.

With some tragic exceptions, here in this corner of the world, we have so far escaped the worst of the pandemic’s ravages. Instead, what we have witnessed is the best of our community – the sheer goodness, decency and generosity that truly underpin our survival as a social species.

In much of this winter issue, we look back on a year filled with uncertainty to record the one thing that remained dependable – our ability to pull together and help each other through trying times.

Our annual salute to Local Heroes focuses on the small army of people who were suddenly thrust into the role of essential workers, or to put it another way, who the rest of us suddenly realized were essential. Our heroes this year also include a nod to the young activists who responded to another of this year’s world-shifting events and organized Black Lives Matter marches in Orangeville and Shelburne. On the same topic elsewhere in the issue, Tralee Pearce hosts a roundtable discussion with members of Shelburne’s antiracism task force who tabled their recommendations in October.

As always our winter issue includes a roundup of new books and music by local authors and, especially poignantly this year, musicians, who are unlikely to enjoy the immediacy of performing for a live audience for some months yet.

So, farewell, 2020. You battered us, but we’re not beaten.

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L E T T E R S

Rural internet woes Thanks for a fine description of the rural internet access problem [“At Home in the Office” autumn’20]. Despite a 2015 pre-election promise to deliver, the prime minister has yet to extend it here. Last week I checked (again) with the Dufferin IT office and learned that, while some of my property taxes are devoted to high-speed internet service for Dufferin County, I won’t be getting it. So I approached a small familyowned business hidden away in Hillsburgh, called Satronics Satellites.

Bell had been providing limited access at around 50 kbps for a high price, sometimes cutting me off, and governments had been mouthing platitudes for years. Satronics spent less than an afternoon to install 13 Mbps here. Satronics is readily accessible, and if I ever lose communications, I can always drive a few minutes to their offices. Let’s forget about global-level infrastructure; we have better service locally.

Charles Hooker East Garafraxa

I wanted to thank writer Paul Webster for a great article on our “lousy rural internet,” but for all the articles I have seen written over the years, a change is not coming quickly enough. It is time our Caledon mayor stops going on about SWIFT, as it is not coming “swiftly,” and starts standing up to Bell and Rogers on behalf of his rural constituents.

My husband, who has been working at home for many years, has been complaining to our mayor about the cost and dependability of our internet service for quite some time now. It is appalling for this day and age that those of us who live in rural Caledon are charged so much for crappy internet.

Donna Acton Caledon

The Dingle School (1968) 8.5" x 5.25" by Rosemary Kilbourn

Wood engraver Rosemary Kilbourn Rosemary Kilbourn was one of my teachers in the ’60s at the new Art School of Toronto. She certainly made drawing approachable. So I decided to do a bit of research on her life and art. This article found online [“Rosemary Kilbourn: Light, Line & Lyricism” autumn’11] about her work took me immediately into her unique home, the country­ side, her ideas and thoughts about printmaking and stained glass. It is almost like being there. What a treat! Thank you, writer Tom Smart.

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Caroline Wickham West Vancouver

Kayaking correction Just reading the fall issue. Great stuff, as usual! I noticed in the sidebar of Nicola Ross’s kayaking article [Good Sport], she writes that it costs $8 to launch a kayak at Island Lake. There is no fee for launching canoes, kayaks, paddleboards etc. The $8 fee only applies to trailered boats.

Dave Dawe Mono Centre

Editor’s reply: We appreciate the correction. The fee is only for the use of the cement ramp to launch a boat off a trailer. Separate, free launch points are available for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.

Sometimes mistakes are fun Editor’s note: In response to another error, one we made in our Facebook post about Connie’s Kitchen in Mono, we were delighted to receive this post:

We’re pretty sure you’re talking about a Connie’s Kitchen somewhere closer to you. Somewhere on the same side of the world, perhaps? The good news is we’re also in the business of canning and preserving food, mostly locally dried fish and sauces. This funny coincidence is even funnier because we also have an eggplant sauce, Eggplant & Olive sauce to be precise, that we sell as a pasta sauce or antipasto, just like the one you featured from Mono’s Connie’s Kitchen. Thanks for the tag, though!

Connie’s Kitchen Manila, Philippines

Best regards I just wanted to thank you for hosting me in your beautiful magazine in the section “Meet the Maker” [autumn’20]. It was beautifully written. It was such an honour and privilege. Since then, I’ve received many lovely compliments and have had lots of people come to the Rare Threads Boutique to meet me, see the items I have to offer and make purchases.

Pete Paterson’s photos were awesome.

Just want to tell you that I enjoyed this issue, as I do all of them, and to thank you for doing such an incredible job of producing In The Hills and keeping us entertained always with thoughtful articles appropriate for the time. It is a lovely consistency for us in the time of Covid.

Svetlana Ponkin Alton

Donna Davies Caledon East

Thank you for featuring my fine art photography in your fall issue!

I’ve been a big fan of your magazine since I moved to Caledon over 10 years ago now – and am very honoured to have my work featured.

I’ve received quite a few inquiries from people in and around Caledon about purchasing my work and I have already made a few sales.

Patty Maher Caledon

We welcome your comments!

For more commentary from our readers, or to add your own thoughts on any of the stories in this issue, please visit inthehills.ca. You can also send your letters by email to sball@inthehills.ca. Please include your name, address and contact information. In The Hills reserves the right to edit letters for publication.

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Clockwise from top left • Fall in Caledon 16" x 20" • Little Red Schoolhouse 20" x 16" • Folk Art Pyramid 24" x 18" • Good Ol’ Hockey Game 12" x 18" • Acrylic*

Mary Scattergood In Caledon artist Mary Scattergood’s world, memory is all. She maps her personal history and that of family members onto real and imagined country topographies. These scenes stretch as far back as the early 20th century, when one-room schoolhouses, small churches, horse-drawn sleighs and old-timey community events reigned. Her work gives a nod to the style (and era) of American folk artist Grandma Moses – sweet, but not saccharine. “I try not to make it cute,” says Mary. Outsized farm animals star in primitive folk pieces. Her winter canvases are set in snowy rural hills and dotted with folks skating on ponds, making snow angels and sugaring off. Mary says she portrays “the best parts of the past,” underscoring her artistic mission to “convince people to be kind to each other.” Watch for spring show news at www.maryscattergood.com. * all are available as limited edition giclées I N

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The Right Fit is R ig

ht Here

F I E L D

N O T E S

what to hear, do, play this winter

BY JANICE QUIRT

Shop talk

Thanks to their frosty outdoor settings, our region’s Christmas tree farms offer an experience nearly indistinguishable from pre-Covid times.

Picking just one to visit is the challenge.

These retailers scored a spot on our nice list. Jessica Wisniewski of Flux Glass Co. has opened Erin’s Element Inspired to feature her work alongside that of other locals, including Orangeville interior designer Emily Lane, Erin-based Sideroad Candle Co. and Howell Metalworks.

S H U T T E R S T O C K 78 4 318 6 87

Christmas tree magic

Elliott Tree Farm, north of Hillsburgh, opened in mid-November with its heritage gift shop, food truck and bonfire ready to go. Over at Wintersinger’s Tree Farm on 3rd Line Hillsburgh, customers must reserve a 90-minute window ahead of time to ensure no crowding.

In Mono, Hockley Valley Farm is a storybook setting on 90 acres on Hockley Road. Don’t forget to bring a mask for cut-your-own fun, wagon rides and gift shopping in the 120-year-old Christmas barn.

Charitable goodness abounds at nearby Hockleycrest on Airport Road. Along with volunteers, owners Dave and Sally Moule manage the trees and donate all proceeds to the Bruce Trail. Tree sales begin December 5. Cut your own or choose precut Fraser firs donated by Everett’s Somerville Nurseries. At Fandango Tree Farm on 7th Line Mono, they’re happy to cut trees for buyers and deliver upon request.

They’re open weekends (weekdays by appointment). Just a short drive north on 7th Line, Cricket Creek Farm offers certified organic white and blue spruces, starting November 28.

Adams Tree Farms west of Shelburne offers cut-your-own balsam fir along with precut options. Complimentary wagon- and hayrides are available by appointment starting November 27.

And if you know you want to grab and go, Glen Echo Nurseries in Caledon hangs trees of various sizes from the ceiling in their charming open-air space. Their offerings include silver, balsam and Fraser fir and Scotch pine.

Element Inspired

Tara McCreadie and Laura Meakings recently unveiled Limitless Inc. by My Crafty Neighbour in Shelburne.

The shop boasts a DIY craft studio and local pieces such as macramé

by Tanya Kobayashi of The Knot and Needle. Beloved clothing and decor shop Noinkee’s has moved from Orangeville to Belfountain next to Higher Ground Café. More Than Just Baskets in Orangeville now has a website to purchase foodie- and spa-inspired baskets online (delivery available).

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F I E L D

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Outside interests

Getting in tune

At Last Forest Schools In a year marked by massive educational upheaval, outdoor learning has struck a chord with kids and parents alike. At Headwater Hills Montessori School in Orangeville, outdoor education is a guiding tenet. Their forest school program is led by teacher Regan Ross, who trained as a forest school practitioner at Forest School Canada, an education program run by the Ottawa-area charity and advocacy group Child and Nature Alliance. Kids aged three to five participate in experiential, play- and place-based outdoor learning. Older students move on to camping expeditions and

Orangeville’s Achill Choral Society goes virtual this holiday with a YouTube compilation of archival performances from previous holiday concerts – going live Wednesday, December 16 at 8pm. Members of the storied local choir will jump in to introduce the pieces.

Register on achill.ca for a free ticket to the link and listen at your convenience.

learning to grow food. “A relationship develops between the children and the land that provides innumerable opportunities to stimulate and inspire learning. Why do birds fly south? How can I move this big log? Why are the snowflakes different today? What kind of animal made these tracks?” says Regan. “The students learn how to safely enjoy the cold and snow – there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!”

Orangeville Forest School (part of the Ontario-wide At Last Forest Schools franchise) opened in Island Lake Conservation Area this fall. It runs a full-day program two days a week for kids ages four to 12 and a half-day parent-tot program once a week. “Students are developing strong connections with the land, noticing changes as small as a new drop of sap on a familiar tree. They’re naturally taking on leadership roles, gaining self-regulation and confidence,” says principal Emily Stitt.

Game for a gift

Grotto Forest School, operated out of Guelph Grotto Climbing Co., offers K-to-8 school days on Tuesdays and Thursdays through the winter at a variety of locations in the Erin and Caledon area including Scottsdale Farm and school leader Dave Shepherd’s family property on 10th Line, Erin.

For a less structured approach, parents might consider adding the new Island Lake Natural Playground to their kids’ routines. Open year-round, the playground features outdoor musical instruments and natural structures for climbing and imaginative play. Winter activities will include a circular track for skiing and skating.

Interested in something mentioned here? Find links to social media pages & websites at Field Notes on inthehills.ca.

Take a walk on the Boardwalk – Island Lake boardwalk, that is, with the limited edition Orangeville-themed Monopoly from Outset Media, a Canadian games company. Sold exclusively at the Orangeville Walmart.

Festive florals The seasonal workshops hosted by Melancthon’s Petals Flower Co. seem custom-made to battle cabin fever. Design an urn arrangement with locally foraged greens and distinctive berries on December 5 at 9am. And construct a lush wreath with fragrant evergreen, cedar and balsam on December 5 at 1pm. Instruction, materials, warm drinks and treats are provided.

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A year unlike any other…

2020 was a year unlike any other in my 35 years as a Realtor. When the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic really began to be felt in March, there was understandable trepidation in the market. As a result, inventories of houses for sale were low early in the year. However, as we moved into Phases 2 and 3 in the late spring and early summer, the market took off. Houses sold fast, over list price, often with multiple offers. It was a great market for sellers; but buyers had to be quick, decisive and willing to pay the price.

Professionally, 2020 has been one of my busiest years. The pandemic motivated a lot of people to make their moves earlier in their lives than they anticipated. Some of these moves were

quite a dramatic departure. I sold many clients’ homes in Caledon, Erin, Dufferin and surrounding GTA cities, who subsequently purchased homes in Niagara, Fergus, West Gray, Stouffville and as far north as Wasaga and Thornbury. 2020 really made people think about what truly matters in life, and where they want to live it. Isolation offered the opportunity to plan and think ahead.

As I write this article in late October, things have quieted down. That is not necessarily a bad thing. Although sellers are feeling the reality of price adjustments, buyers (and that includes sellers who will also be buying) have more time to take a breath and make the right decision.

home is fundamental to that happiness.

I wish everyone good health, and when you decide the time is right to buy or sell your home, please call me… meeting and consulting with you is the true pleasure of my work. A comprehensive, sound navigational approach is what I do best.

My decades of experience have served me well, and will do the same for you.

I want to take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Christmas season.

May you have good health, an over load of happiness and the love of family and friends. Thank you again for your trust in me. Seeing you happy makes me happy.

Best wishes,

Maria

2020 has taught that the right time to buy or sell is the time YOU decide. We all seek happiness in our lives and our

maria@mariabritto.com www.mariabritto.com Maria Britto, Sales Representative | RE/MAX Realty Specialists Inc Direct: 416-523-8377 | 16069 Airport Road | Caledon East 22

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Maria Britto has been a licensed Realtor since 1985 and is a Member of the Re/Max Hall of Fame.

Brooke Cooper – Toronto

…Grateful thanks to my clients who put their trust in me to represent them in the purchase and sale of their homes.

F E N C E

P O S T S

t ru e c on fe ssions from t h e n i n t h c once ssion

No cause for Alarm

BY DAN NEEDLES

O

ut here on the Ninth Concession, burglars are at work every week among the “view” properties along the top of the hill to the west. Break-ins and car thefts are so common that police no longer visit the scene anymore. They just take the details by phone and tell you to call your insurance company.

A friend in the insurance business tells me that cash, jewelry and electronics are the first choice of home burglars. He assures me, given the choice between a Rolex watch and a 1948 Champion root pulper that weighs 500 pounds and needs sharpening, the burglar is more likely to take the watch. Certain vehicle models are regular targets, but a farm truck with cow cartoons painted on the racks has never made the top 10 list. Since the pandemic began we hear reports of livestock rustling in the county, but again, professional rustlers are looking for something in its prime, not a donkey who is old enough to vote.

I have been burgled twice now. The first break-in occurred in 1978, when I was a weekender restoring the old frame house on this farm. Maybe break-in is the wrong word. At the time I owned just one power tool, an anemic Black & Decker circular saw that whined if it was asked to cut anything thicker than plywood. I drove off one Sunday night leaving the saw on the veranda and someone swiped it. I never got a chance to thank that burglar properly. I went straight out and bought a decent saw the next week, and it still runs to this day.

The second burglary happened many years later when my wife and I had moved here full-time and stocked the farm with livestock. Late one night I heard

ILLUS TR ATION BY SHEL AGH ARMS TRONG

a truck backing out of the lane over by the barn and I dashed out with a flashlight to investigate. The truck roared off, leaving the barn doors wide open and the lights on, the dogs barking and the guinea hens shrieking. I looked around and couldn’t immediately see what they had stolen. But that’s always the way.

Given the choice between a Rolex watch and a 1948 Champion root pulper that weighs 500 pounds and needs sharpening, the burglar is more likely to take the watch.

The next morning I took a more careful inventory and realized the thieves had taken nothing. Not a thing.

I should have been relieved, but I found the experience deeply upsetting. I felt violated. People I didn’t even know had dismissed all my treasures as worthless.

They have never come back. My insurance friend dropped by to comfort me and he noted that the keys were always in my truck and my tractors didn’t even need a key to start.

“What is the matter with you people?” he shouted, speaking generally to the large number of rural customers he serves who are oblivious to the simple security measures city people take for granted. I pointed out that someone could make off with the tractor in theory, but they would have to know that

you must squirt ether into the carburetor before it will start. The ether can is on the bench in the middle barn where the gander sleeps, and the gander bites everyone but me. (He’d probably even bite me in the dark.) And then you would have to disconnect the manure spreader, because even I would concede it has no retail value whatsoever. There’s usually a nest of yellow jackets hanging off the tongue of the spreader – again, not the sort of thing you want to bump into in the night. So if you are thinking of taking my tractor, you might be safer just to give me a buzz first, the way the neighbours do.

In the middle of the religious wars in 16th-century France, the philosopher Michel de Montaigne decided to take early retirement from government service, leave Paris and move back to the country to write. His friends were horrified. Private armies roamed the land, looting and plundering as they went, and here was this lunatic thinking he could survive in an unfortified house. Montaigne assured them the secret was to live in a way that made it clear you had nothing worth plundering. He lived unmolested on his family estate for the next 20 years.

I have lived by Montaigne’s dictum successfully for 25 years now. Burglars are by nature averse to heavy lifting and any sort of risk. Between the age and the weight of my possessions and the bad temper of my poultry, they have decided to give the place a pass.

Author and playwright Dan Needles is the recipient of the Leacock Medal for Humour.

He lives on a small farm in Nottawa.

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FOREVER

TOMORROW

TODAY

very subtle but visible transition at top of images

2020 has been a year unlike any other.

The charities in our community, and the people they serve, remain under tremendous financial pressure. To continue support of our charities in this time of great need…

• The Brampton and Caledon Community Foundation has maintained its annual charitable granting in 2020 to assist our community charities • The Foundation is a participating partner, through Community Foundations of Canada, in the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund • The Brampton and Caledon Community Foundation, through its own programs, and partnerships, will grant almost $2 million to charities in our community in 2020 Support your favourite charity Today…Tomorrow…Forever by creating a permanent endowment fund at the Brampton and Caledon Community Foundation Serving the Headwaters Community since 2002 New Office: 15976 Airport Road Caledon East, ON L7C 1E8 905-584-0895 info@bramptoncaledoncf.ca www.bramptoncaledoncf.ca

DONATE TODAY.

www.hhcfoundation.com hhcfoundation.com

DOUBLE THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFT.

Your gift will be matched dollar for dollar (to a maximum of $200,000) between November 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020.

Thank you to the Morningview Foundation.

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Local Heroes

BY T R A L EE PE A RCE , JA NICE QUIR T, T ON Y RE Y NOL DS A ND JEFF ROL L ING S

A Focus on Essentials A lot of us may have spent much of 2020 in isolation, but there is no question that getting through a pandemic is a group effort – a reality reflected in our annual salute to local heroes. Usually, we compile our list as a good news story, showcasing individuals who tend to be leaders making a difference in our community. But how do you choose just a few heroes in a year that is chockablock with them?

This year our picks are representative of the team efforts that brought out the best in one another in service to us all. For some, the role is unexpected or new. For others, crisis management and essential work has always been their jam, though the intensity of this storm may have tested their limits.

From health care and social service workers to school staff and grocery clerks among many others, hundreds across our hills are putting themselves at risk and continuing to adapt. We are so fortunate to have them.

While health and survival are obviously essential, so too is our social well-being. We Canadians like to crow about our peaceful, multiracial makeup, yet there remain too many untended corners where hate and racism can hide. The Black Lives Matter movement has inspired young people in Headwaters – local heroes, all – to rise up, aiming to build a more just society. What could be more essential than that?

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PE TE PATERSON

Lena Bruce (left), Dr Charlie Joyce and Darlene Fitzpatrick in front of the Headwaters Health Care Centre Covid-19 assessment centre.

Call of duty By early November, the Covid-19 assessment centre in Orangeville had recorded more than 35,000 visits and conducted nearly 33,000 tests. In that time, 810 Covid cases were confirmed in Dufferin and Caledon, including 29 hospital staff members and physicians.

At the start of 2020, none of this was on the agenda for the staff at Headwaters Health Care Centre. But people like Lena Bruce and Darlene Fitzpatrick are old hands at dealing with a crisis. In normal times, both work at the hospital – Lena as manager of the emergency department and Darlene as an emergency room charge nurse.

In addition to her original assignment, Lena now also serves as manager of the assessment centre, while Darlene transferred there as charge nurse.

Staffed by about a dozen people, the centre was first located in a tent near the hospital and processed up to 500 people a day. Compared with the emergency room, says Darlene, “It’s not nearly as stressful, but it sure is busy.” As winter approached in early November, the centre moved to a separated area inside the hospital.

Both Lena and Darlene also volunteered to be part of a team that went to work during an outbreak last spring at Shelburne Residence, the long-term care home where 21 residents have died. While there, Darlene also contracted the illness, and despite taking all the precautions, one of her daughters did too. “It was a rough couple of weeks,” says Darlene, and though she has long since recovered, she still experiences some breathing issues.

Despite the risk, Lena says, “My whole career has been in emergency. I’ve

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never even done in-patient work at the hospital. So the Shelburne Residence experience was quite rewarding.”

Charlie Joyce is the physician lead for the assessment centre. In the early days he attended a planning meeting with representatives of eight different community agencies. “There was a spirit of ‘how can we all come together?’” he says. “That really carried us through the early stages.” There was also a lot of fear, he adds, and a lot of questions: “How bad is it going to get? Will we have to do things we don’t normally do? Will the hospital be overwhelmed? Are we going to get sick? Is there some part of my house where I can sleep to protect my family?”

Darlene says one frustrating aspect of working in the assessment centre is people who don’t follow the rules. “It can be disheartening,” she says. “We’re making sacrifices, even risking bringing it into our homes doing this work, and then we get people demanding a test because they felt attending some big party was more important than the welfare of everyone around them.”

All three agree the biggest challenge has been the ever-evolving guidelines about who gets a test. Initially the number of people who qualified was limited. Then the rules changed and nearly everyone could get one. But in October new changes limited qualified individuals once again. Says Lena, “Keeping up with all that and communicating it to the public can be crazy.

We’ve had some unhappy patients.”

Still, she adds, “I’ve been amazed by the staff. It’s been wonderful to be part of it.”

— JEFF ROLLINGS

PE TE PATERSON

The new hope This past summer, as the moving force of two local Black Lives Matter marches, four young women gave the rest of us a lesson in activism, advocacy and getting things done. They organized quickly and effectively with posters and social media messages that, thanks to Covid, had to include detailed social distancing and masking guidelines.

The June 14 Shelburne event of 300-plus marchers was led by friends and retail co-workers Shyanne Wharton-Haines Ricci and Hailey McLarty, both 23. Each spoke to kick off the march and were joined afterwards at Shelburne Town Hall by Mayor Wade Mills, Deputy Mayor Steve Anderson and Jay Wagstaff, the site director of the Shelburne location of Compass Community Church.

The need for change is one Shyanne feels deeply, having experienced racism growing up as one of the only Black kids at her elementary school. “I was treated differently because of my skin colour – the N-word was painted on my school portable – and I wanted to organize the march to provide support for other kids who may feel the same way,” says Shyanne, who was also a member of Shelburne’s antiracism task force (see page 47). “I want to show that they aren’t alone. There are people out there who care and are trying to make a difference for them.”

Twenty minutes south in Orangeville, a similar wellspring of solidarity swelled the same day. More than 1,000 people joined (virtually and in person) a Black Lives Matter march starting in Alexandra Park. There, two sisters had leaned in after digesting the news coverage of the tragic deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Seanna and Makenna Thomas discussed with their parents the fact that such an event could happen to any one of them. Their mother, Patti, suggested a march as a way to refuse to be silent about anti-Black racism, and the girls ran with it. Chef Phil DeWar was the MC, and local community builder and photographer Jim Waddington lent support. And four-year-old Emma was keen to tag along with her sisters.

As members of an interracial family, each sister has experienced racism in a different way. Makenna, 14, describes being bullied for being very light skinned – too white to be Black and too Black to be white, as she puts it. Seanna, 20, feels she experienced more racism as a child than her sisters because of her darker complexion.

“Kids are so important in this movement because they’re the next generation teachers, business owners, lawyers and so on. In order to eliminate racism we must educate the younger generation and show them the truth. Only after that will we see more change and unity,” she says.

These are disturbing matters for such young shoulders to carry.

But these young people already understand the actions they take can have lasting effects on our culture – and the lives of kids like little Emma, and many others they don’t even know.

Hailey McLarty (top left) and Shyanne Wharton-Haines Ricci (top right) organized the June 14 Shelburne Black Lives Matter march. Sisters Makenna (bottom left) and Seanna Thomas (right), were behind the Orangeville march the same day and walked with little sister Emma.

— JANICE QUIRT

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A community steps up As the coronavirus pandemic set in and shuttered businesses laid off staff, community food banks saw a surge in demand. “Normally we support about 700 people a month,” said Heather Hayes, executive director of the Orangeville Food Bank. “There was a huge spike in March and April, up to 900.”

Demand settled down when the federal government introduced income support programs, said Heather, but it rose again as the second wave took hold. Food banks expect the uptick to continue for at least a year as individuals and families exhaust their financial resources.

Because of the pandemic, the food bank advised volunteers older than 70 and those with pre-existing health conditions to stay home. But as these at-risk volunteers stepped back, the community stepped up. The food bank’s list of volunteers swelled by about 50 per cent to roughly 130 people – with more waiting in the wings. Every day these volunteers break down larger donations, sorting and shelving, lifting more than 30,000 pounds a month. They also fill clients’ orders, preparing them for delivery or walkand drive-through pickup.

When restaurants and caterers were closed in March, many of them redirected their inventory to food banks. Donations included such things as fresh chicken that had to be cooked right away. “Local caterers and restaurants made butter chicken, pot pies, all kinds of great things,” said Heather. “We also expanded hamper delivery to seniors’ apartments.” In one case, a woman came out onto her balcony in tears, grateful for the fresh

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Some of the Orangeville Food Bank staff and volunteers, from left to right : Pam Vender, Laura Jotham, Claudette Riechart, Andrea Thomas, Heather Hayes, Jennifer Sinclair-Webb, Diana Engel, Gary Malone, Trevor Lewis, Vickie Lewis, Deanne Mount, Cathy Wilson and Steve White.

vegetables she had been unable to go out and get on her own.

With the goal of limiting the spread of Covid by distributing food at centralized locations, the Orangeville Food Bank joined forces with other local food programs to form Dufferin Food Share. This initiative was up and running at just about the same time as the Orangeville Food Bank was taking possession of its new building, which needed extensive renovations.

For some time the food bank had been hoping to buy a building to replace its cramped Centennial Road quarters. When the right building came up for sale on nearby Commerce Road, the decision was made to take the plunge.

And once again, the community stepped up. Resources that had been gathered and stored at Centennial Road were temporarily shifted to the Salvation Army’s New Hope Community Church on Riddell Road.

In the meantime, local trades and companies volunteered to get the new building in shape. They put up walls, gravelled the driveway, and installed wiring, plumbing, a walk-in freezer, coolers and an emergency generator.

Volunteers sanded, painted, and more – while not skipping a beat in their mandate to provide food to those in need. Then, once the new quarters were ready, everything was moved again.

For years, Heather has witnessed the generosity of the community, but this year her gratitude is overwhelming. “When you pick up the phone in this community, no matter who you call, the answer is always ‘What can we do to help?’” she said. No hesitation. No hemming and hawing. Just yes.

— TONY REYNOLDS

K AREN DHALIWAL

Class acts This fall, in schools across Caledon, Erin and Dufferin, teachers, principals, custodians and support staff managed to get our education system up and running again in classrooms and online – no mean feat.

Wendy Brooker knew she had deeply missed teaching in class – no teacher will tell you they chose the profession to sit alone at a computer – but she says she didn’t realize just how much she had missed her Grade 1 students until she saw them racing to enjoy one of Belfountain Public School’s beloved outdoor play areas in September.

“I remember when they first got to play in the gully again and they were giggling and laughing,” says Wendy, who has taught at the school since 2007. “Oh, my gosh, I felt a little normal.”

Wendy says she and her students agree that masks, social distancing and frequent hand washing are small prices to pay to be together after six months of exile. “They missed each other. They missed us. There are so many times I’ve had to refrain from giving the kids a hug. I’m a big hugger.”

Indeed, in addition to pulling the rug out from many conventional education practices – think group work, the basics of sharing and, yes, even the rug itself in the form of carpet-time reading circles – the pandemic has forced in-person teachers to rejig the fundamentals of how they communicate with their charges.

Wendy, for one, now sees how much she used to rely on facial expressions to relay information. In the Before Times, she might just mouth a gentle suggestion to a student to redirect behaviour. “They can’t read my lips anymore,” she says of mask wearing. “I’m trying to talk to them about what my eyes look like when I’m smiling and when I’m not. I now give a little wink when I’m smiling.”

While this has all been hard work, Belfountain principal Lynn Bristoll says she’s happy one of the pandemic’s biggest hurdles for educators – harnessing technology for remote learning – is more under control than it was when March Break stretched into infinity.

“That was a steep, steep learning curve. Now we’re in a great place because we’ve been through that,” says Lynn.

One major shift is that all Belfountain lesson plans are now created with online learning in mind, in case a child or a class needs to quarantine. (Ninety per cent of the student body, 180 students, opted for in-person learning.)

Back in March, staff scrambled to get their personal and school computers in working order – many lacked cameras, microphones and the right software. And spotty rural internet affected staff and students alike. But Lynn doesn’t begrudge becoming an ad hoc IT department: “We signed up for this. We signed up to teach children.

Parents didn’t sign up to be teachers.”

On the first day of school on September 8, the whole Belfountain family – including the tireless custodians and support staff, and the inhouse YMCA before- and after-care team (supervisor Karen Dhaliwal took the photograph for this story) – was ready for the next chapter.

“To see them get off the bus and walk into the school was pure joy,” says Lynn.

Belfountain Public School teacher Wendy Brooker is one of many educators and school staff who worked tirelessly to ensure students could return to school as safely as possible this September.

— TR ALEE PEARCE

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When wishing for

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K ELLY LEE

Staff and volunteers at Family Transition Place last year, from left to right, back row: Sara Smith, Janice Snow, Janet Taylor, Lynette PoleLangdon; third row: Travis Greenley, Ashlynne Cameron, Kendra Wassink, Joanne Jordan, Samantha McCabe, Sara Flache, Debbie Cribbis, Diane Vandenberg, Trish Grabb; second row: Femi Oke (on arm of chair), Lyn Allen, Kristy Fearon, Lisa Goodison, Norah Kennedy, Janice Glassford, Andrea Chantree, Laura Moscatiello, Debbie Lahey, Bonnie Waterfield, Donna Buchan, Stephanie Figliomeni; front row: Christina Gonzalez (seated), Kelly Bohonos, Julie Newton, Tiffany McMillan, Courtney Halkett, Cheryl Martin-Goncalves and Keely Horan.

The need doesn’t stop When you’re in the business of providing transitional support to women and children experiencing abuse, there’s no shutting down because of a virus.

Although calls to Orangeville’s Family Transition Place dropped during the early days of the pandemic, executive director Norah Kennedy says the impact on those living in unsafe situations was enormous. With everyone stuck together at home, conflicts escalated, and it could be difficult, if not impossible, to call for help. Potential clients were also worried about communal living risks at the shelter.

The number of cases has now rebounded. Though no one is ever left hang­ ing in a crisis, about 80 people are currently on a waiting list for some services.

While many organizations have talked about the need to pivot during the pandemic, Norah says that for FTP a more apt term would be “pirouette.”

Normal capacity at the shelter is about 25 people, but this number had to be decreased by about half. Each resident now has two interconnected rooms, but common areas such as the kitchen and playroom are closed.

Where appropriate, the organization also uses offsite locations.

Most other aspects of the operation have also changed. Pre-pandemic, FTP youth educator Travis Greenley spent his days in schools. He and the youth education team have taught thousands of kids how to build and maintain healthy relationships – and how to identify unhealthy ones.

With the school program temporarily shut down, Travis has been redeployed. FTP’s youth educators are producing YouTube videos – more

than 20 so far – and conducting Zoom workshops. “With the kids cooped up,” says Travis, “sibling relationships become an issue.”

Travis has also been spending time working in the residential program and says that getting to know some FTP clients firsthand has been power­ ful: “To see their strength and courage to face the day is so inspiring. And to see the incredible FTP staff do what they do.”

Janice Snow’s official title is food and nutrition specialist, but that only partly describes her job at FTP. A trained chef, Janice presides over a shared space that is, normally, much more than just a kitchen. “It’s a gathering place,” she says. “It’s a bunch of women in the kitchen cooking. It’s about restoring dignity.”

With the kitchen out of operation, Janice has taken on the role of facilities manager, ensuring Covid-19 safety, maintenance and screening procedures are followed. But she stresses that all FTP’s 50 or so full- and part-time staff are flexing to make it work. “Everyone has been stepping up to the plate,” she says. “The pandemic has made us come together stronger than ever.”

She hopes, too, that some of the adaptations will become permanent. “The pandemic has opened our eyes to new ways to serve our community.”

Norah comes back to the main focus. “The heart of it all is our clients.

The organization’s three pillars are safety, support and hope. In delivering that, the ‘how’ doesn’t matter; it’s the ‘why.’ And we’re clear on that.” She reminds those in need that support is available anytime at 1-800-265-9178.

— JEFF ROLLINGS

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www.tancogroup.net www.carters.ca

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Foreground: Kurt and Donni Geiser with son and store manager Matthew.

Background, from left: Massimo Policciardi, Morgan Innis, Renata Kolaric-Blas, Brenda Brook, Ron Persaud, Cassidy Sandru, Mitchell Greenham, Josh Inglis, Brenda Cordon, Linda Widdes, Cecilia Navarro, Kait Laurenza, Julie James, Maddie Belfry and Erik Rasmussen.

Keeping food on our tables Until last spring, people who work in grocery stores may not have considered themselves essential workers, but when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, they suddenly found themselves on the front lines.

For Matthew Geiser, the newly minted manager of Foodland in Caledon East, the pandemic was a baptism of fire. The 28-year-old was just nine days into his new job when the Ontario government declared a state of emergency on March 17.

“I started managing the store on March 8,” said Matthew, son of franchise owners Donni and Kurt Geiser. “When Covid hit, I felt overwhelmed, getting things thrown at us all the time. Customers were always coming in to tell us what they heard on the news.”

Every one of the store’s 85 full- and part-time staff pitched in and worked, not just to the end of a shift but until the job was done. “We started making sure we had one another’s backs, following protocols, doing our best to keep everyone safe,” he said.

Department managers worked seven days a week to make sure shelves were stocked and to help keep up with the new routines: sanitizer at every checkout, washing hands every 15 minutes and disinfecting freezer doors, shopping-cart handles and other touch points, also every 15 minutes. “To keep the store in tip-top shape … everyone put in endless hours,” he said.

“They’d work on their days off, and it meant a lot to us.”

The Geisers’ Caledon East Foodland has long offered home delivery, but as more people began isolating and avoiding crowds, demand for delivery and curbside service went up considerably. “It really came on close to the end of March and has been non-stop ever since,” said Matthew. “Things slowed down in the summer, but now with the second wave, they’re picking back up again.” As some staff stock shelves, others are busy emptying them to fill customers’ orders. “We always aim for same-day or next-day delivery,” said Donni, “so we often put in long hours.”

In their small town, the Geisers know many of their customers personally, and their customers know them – and Matthew found that people were supportive of the store’s efforts to adapt to the unpredictable circumstances.

“Customers understood that we were trying our best to make sure that everyone was staying safe,” he said. “They’d keep their distance in the store and knew we needed to keep ours. They knew there’d be longer lineups and waited outside until customers cleared. No one seemed to be in a rush to go anywhere, and if we didn’t have something on the shelves, they understood.” Though the shortage of toilet paper stole the headlines last spring, there were empty spaces on other shelves as well.

The resilience, patience and hard work of the workers at Foodland, and of so many others like them at grocery stores across the hills, have gone a long way toward keeping us fed through these trying times.

— TONY REYNOLDS

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by Brian Bixley photography by Des Townshend When Brian and Maureen Bixley bought an old farmhouse in the Mulmur hills, gardening wasn’t even on their radar. It started with birds. Perhaps a shrub or two might bring more to the yard. Fifty years later, the garden at Lilactree Farm is a 2.5-acre ode to the horticultural gods. Dipping into his gardening journal, begun in 1968, and subsequent newsletter, Bixley takes readers through the seasons and through the years. But Minding the Garden is not so much a history of the Bixley garden and a collection of gardening how-to notes as an intriguing meditation on what the garden has inspired: thoughtful contemplation of everything from Shakespeare and opera to the illustrious Monty Don and a multitude of other subjects.

With vivid colour photographs by Orangeville’s Des Townshend, Minding the Garden is the perfect winter read. While the earth sleeps, gardeners make grand plans. Cue the laughing gods. (FriesenPress, $45)

As I Was Saying

by Marion Frazer Marion Frazer’s collection of poems is like a leisurely visit with a good friend. In spare, pared-down language, the conversation ranges from family and joyful pleasures to politics and grief. Each poem reaches out for meaningful connection and, in doing so, reminds us that when we share our experiences, joy expands and adversity becomes easier to bear.

Marion Frazer was showcased as Caledon Public Library’s writer of the month in April 2020.

(FriesenPress, $20)

The Secret Life of Doris Melnick

by Gail Prussky We all have secret fantasies that take up space in our heads. For Doris Melnick, a painfully shy FoodWorld cashier who lives alone and exists on a diet of hard-boiled eggs and baked beans, this statement is especially true. Anger and longing bubble up from the darkest corners of her brain until they become a deafening cacophony. Her only remedy is to release them onto the page in the form of drawings. The people she meets throughout the day become images of the grotesque. Eyes, rarely looking in the same direction, bulge from misshapen heads. Horns and pustules and insects erupt from lumpy skin. Even Duane, the produce manager with a gift for stacking turnips and the object of Doris’s secret longing, receives a tail of hair-tufted skin protruding from the top of his head.

A masterpiece of imagination, The Secret Life of Doris Melnick provides a roar of recognition for the lonely and outcast among us.

Gail Prussky worked as an addiction therapist at the Donwood Institute in Toronto. She now lives in Mono. (Exile Editions, $26.95)

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ou r a n n ua l r ev iew of n ew books

BY TRACEY FOCKLER

Ahhh, books. They entertain, educate and – especially useful in times like these – transport us to new and exciting places beyond words and beyond the four walls surrounding us.

Your garden may be put to bed for the winter, but feel the vicarious thrill of sinking your hands into fertile earth with Minding the Garden, Brian Bixley’s memoir of his 50-year campaign against the fickle gardening gods. Leave the real world completely behind and dive into the mindbending landscapes of Rudolf Kurz’s Bizarre and Gail Prussky’s The Secret Life of Doris Melnick.

Feel the exhaustion and heartbreak of helping Syrian refugees clamber onto a rocky shore in

Nature Where We Live Activities to Engage Your Inner Scientist from Pond Dipping to Animal Tracking

by Don Scallen Nature Where We Live is the perfect guide to ease kids away from screens and encourage them to reconnect with the natural world.

Travelling no farther than a local park and needing only minimal gear, both kids and adults will enjoy searching for fairy shrimp, timberdoodles, singing insects and winter tracks. Each activity includes notes on how to tread softly on the earth, ideas to enhance and extend the experience, and bold photography that’s sure to grab everyone’s interest.

A retired middle school science teacher, Don Scallen continues to educate through lectures and workshops, as well as the nature articles he writes for this magazine and his “Notes from the Wild” blog at inthehills.ca. (Knotty Toad Press, $20)

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Or slake your need for a satisfying rant by dipping into Harry Posner’s finely honed poems in Blue Is Bigger Than Brown.

Teens are invited to disappear into Shelley Peterson’s new Jockey Girl mystery, The Jagged Circle, while the wee ones will enjoy the excitement of growing a massive pumpkin in Carolyn j Morris’s Paisley’s Pumpkin.

So find a cozy spot, snuggle in and let a book take you away.

And please shop local bookstores for your good reads. The small businesses of Headwaters need your support!

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by Steven Heighton In 2015, Steven Heighton flew to Lesvos, Greece, where thousands of Syrian refugees were washing up on the hard-scrabble coastline. During his month-long stint working with other volunteers, he helped provide dry clothes, food and temporary care to boatload after boatload of desperate people.

Reaching Mithymna reads like a poetic fever dream. Sleep-deprived, inexperienced volunteers ride adrenalin highs to hard, inevitable crashes.

Refugees, many in shock and hypothermic, cling to loved ones, still fearing they may be separated. Many of their life jackets, purchased from rapacious profiteers, were stuffed with bubble wrap or cardboard. But despite the trauma, there are rare moments of brilliance. And hope.

In 2016 Steven Heighton won the Governor General’s Award for poetry for The Waking Comes Late. His most recent novel is The Nightingale Won’t Let You Sleep. His Greek mother was a longtime Caledon resident. (Biblioasis, $22.95)

Once Upon a River

by Nancy Early illustrated by Kasia Charko September 2020 was the bicentennial of the village of Alton, and to mark the occasion, Nancy Early and awardwinning artist Kasia Charko teamed up to create a fun- and fact-filled celebratory book for kids. Early details the founding of the village and interesting moments in its history through a clever, prose-y poem, while Charko’s beautiful illustrations suit the tone of the book to perfection. A map at the end of the book pinpoints Alton’s historic buildings, and to engage the reader even further, there’s also a scavenger hunt. Solve the clues, find the right destinations and collect cool giveaways. Ideal for a family day out!

(Nancy Early, $20)

Raise Your Spirits

by Harry Posner

21 Cocktails in 21 Acts

Harry Posner’s latest collection of poems is a welcome blast to the psyche. Blue Is Bigger Than Brown bashes at the eyes-sealed-shut mindset of screen culture and the hypocrisy of, well, pretty much everything. Modern life gets ripped with language that trips and skips like fusion jazz rendered onto the page. You may find yourself wondering, as Posner does in his tribute to Allen Ginsberg, “Where is our Howl?” (Harry Posner, $14.95) Peggy Lee’s Delicious Lips, previously published under the title Malware, has found a home with Quattro Books. The novel features Percy Barnum Thurman, a man torn between his outer and inner lives, perpetually driving up an icy hill and dreading what lies on the other side. (Quattro Books, $20) Harry Posner, Dufferin’s inaugural poet laureate, lives in Orangeville.

by David Nairn During the long Covid siege of 2020, David Nairn, artistic director of Theatre Orangeville, sent out regular webcasts to raise spirits by making a cocktail. Now, with the help of Bernadette Hardaker, Sharyn Ayliffe and Nancy Frater, Nairn has created an entertaining how-to book for mixing your own fancy alcohol-based drinks. Each cocktail features the history of the drink, fun facts and a generous helping of humour. Quarantini, anyone?

All proceeds from the sale of Raise Your Spirits go to Theatre Orangeville programming. Copies are limited and can be purchased only at Theatre Orangeville and BookLore. (Theatre Orangeville, $20)

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by LesCCribb K 9 7 ! g 7 T f y e d c U q d G Roddy McDowd, vicar J W 6 ” h v W G toda small fishing village Uin 18thh p E J E Q century 3 England, finds himself caught up in the drama of a

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Y and a deal with theYdevil produce consequences that span the centuries and, E ring. Murder v shockingly, local smuggling i m q i U G tie-in to a present day murder in Canada.

U Les Cribb originally published his novel under the title The Fo’c’sle Door. Since his death in 2016, his family has taken up v his labour of love and repackaged the large novel into three consecutive books, hoping they will find a bigger audience.

The Vicar’s Journal, Curse of the Seahorse and Death of the Sexton tell a complex tale of courage, friendship and murder, with a touch of the supernatural. (Hasmark Publishing International, $17.99 each)

The Black Cup

by Alec Lavictoire

Make a Joyful Noise...

A child born with his heart outside his rib cage, a grieving father, a mysterious forest and a magical chalice come together in this dark fairy tale. The Black Cup twists and turns with surprises and betrayals to a satisfying conclusion.

Orangeville resident Alec Lavictoire also writes short stories that have been published in Fiction on the Web and CommuterLit. (INtense Publications, $19.99)

Shooting Stars

A Wish for Healing and Togetherness Led by Maestro Mouse, woodland creatures create a magical symphony

All Creatures Great and Small...

Brimming with holiday cheer and the true meaning of Christmas

by Pam Fanjoy illustrated by Ann Randeraad The village children don’t understand why their school is closed and the playground shut down. Or why their parents are stressed out and sometimes crying.

Something called the coronavirus is making people very sick. One little boy prays for shooting stars to come down from heaven and heal everyone. Will the village find a way to cope?

Hillsburgh’s Pam Fanjoy and Ann Randeraad of Laurel created Shooting Stars to help kids demystify the Covid-19 pandemic and find their courage in these anxious times. (Pam Fanjoy, $15)

Bizarre

Forty Unusual Drawings by Rudolf

by Rudolf Kurz Bizarre, a collection of pencil drawings by Rudolf Kurz, certainly lives up to its title – in the best possible way. Mustachioed, martinidrinking babies perambulate through rabbitrich fields in France. Snails act as aircraft for bird-like creatures in one scene, only to square off with tiny matadors in the next. Giraffes, with necks so long they tend to tangle, are topped by the heads of elegant women smoking cigarettes. Poodles and various other creatures arrive via mail order and are escaping!

Rudolf Kurz is also a painter and muralist. His previous books include An Illustrated Alphabet for the Illiterate and Looking for Snails on a Sunday Afternoon. The former Hockley resident now divides his time between East York and Muskoka. (Rudolf Kurz, $35)

Collingwood, the Blue Mountains & Beaver Valley Hikes Loops & Lattes Hiking Guide

by Nicola Ross

121 First Street, Orangeville 519-942-3830 booklore.ca

www.booklore.ca

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Another year, another hiking guide! Nicola Ross heads north for the sixth instalment of Loops & Lattes, her popular hiking guides. The 35 routes in Collingwood, the Blue Mountains & Beaver Valley Hikes will challenge you to strap on your gear and head out to visit pretty vistas, spot native flora and fauna, learn some local history and discover post-hike hot spots for coffee and baked goods. Each loop is rated for length, difficulty and, particular to this guide, the total metres of elevation to be climbed. There’s even the site of a plane-crash to explore.

A longtime contributor to In The Hills, Nicola Ross is an environmental activist who lives in Caledon. Other titles in the series cover Caledon, Dufferin, Hamilton, Halton and Waterloo, Wellington and Guelph. (Woodrising Consulting, $27.95)

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The magic number is five. Inside this compact guidebook are lists and thumbnail descriptions of the five best places to visit, shop, eat and soak in some culture in Toronto and the GTA. How about the five most comprehensive art galleries that aren’t the AGO? Or the top five vinyl record stores? The five bakeries with the best butter tarts? Or the five best spa hotels, including Caledon’s own Millcroft Inn? Even the most Torontocentric of Torontonians will find something fun and new to discover in the city. Guaranteed.

Photographer Erin Fitzgibbon is a regular contributor to In The Hills. She lives in Orangeville. (Luster, $30)

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Kat in Harm’s Way + To Kill Kat

by Hugh Russel Katrina Fernando is a young soldier who is serving her country during the Gulf War of 1990–91.

On her first mission as an NCO, she’s assaulted and shot by a member of her own squad. After a miracle recovery she just wants to slow down and heal, but the higher-ups have other plans for her. Groomed to carry out high-stakes missions for the U.S. army’s counterintelligence agency, she finds herself caught in a web of international intrigue as she rockets toward the riveting conclusion that unfolds in, yes, Headwaters.

Mulmur resident Hugh Russel is a musician, painter and illustrator who is internationally known for his sculptures cast in bronze. Kat in Harm’s Way and To Kill Kat are the first two books in a four-book series. (Negative Space Publishing, $19.95 each)

The Jagged Circle

by Shelley Peterson Sixteen-year-old Evie is back in the saddle after a tumultuous few months. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look as if life is going to get any easier.

While out on a hack, she finds a young woman clinging to life on a snowy path. Although the police have warned Evie not to poke around in the investigation, her step-sister goes missing and she has no choice but to act. With the help of her grandmother and her half-brother, she’s determined to save the day.

The Jagged Circle, the second book in Shelley Peterson’s Jockey Girl series, is a fast-paced mystery that deals with complex issues of addiction and cult-like behaviour in teens.

Peterson is the bestselling author of the Jockey Girl and Saddle Creek series. She owns and operates a stable in Caledon. (Dundurn, $14.99)

EXTRAORDINARY EXCELLENCE CUSTOM HOMES — RENOVATIONS — RESTOR ATIONS

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stockridgeconstruction.com 416.964.6800 david @stockridgeconstruction.com I N

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by Marina L. Reed and 7 a Marian Grace RD 1 h Y E CC R CR 9 7 y K ! g Marina Reed 7 T y e d Orangeville author and Toronto psycho­ Gf c U q d J W 6 ” W v G d U J h created therapist MarianEBoyd have three innovative SUZANNE hLAWRENCE p E Q 3

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books to help Y with, or support someone E readers deal v Y m i who is dealing with, loss. The pages of Loss for Teens, q i U G U Loss of a Parent and Loss of a Partner are divided into six colours to indicate stages of grief. Within each coloured section are short segments written from the perspective of the grieving individual, followed by helpful replies for a companion v and blank pages for recording reflections. All three titles are written with heartfelt compassion and are an invaluable resource. (Next Chapter Press, $24.95 each)

The Library Pet Parade

After the War

by Winston F. Uytenbogaart

In the memoir A Little Girl’s War, Wendy Appleton describes her life as a young child in Bexleyheath, England, during World War II. After the War picks up where A Little Girl’s War left off. The war may be over, but Wendy’s worries are not. Her parents are poor and struggle to feed seven children.

As the years pass, she grows into an Elvis-loving teenager, finds work, dabbles in love and overcomes painful losses.

Melancthon resident Wendy Appleton brings post-war England to life in this lively memoir. (Wendy Appleton, $16.99)

Everyone line up for the pet parade!

Rachel, an ardent reader, is excited when she learns the library is hosting a pet parade. Hoping to win a ribbon, she readies her cat, Tiger, for the big event.

In this charming picture book for children, Winston F. Uytenbogaart of Orangeville fondly recalls a story from his past. (Amaranth Press, $15)

by Wendy Appleton

Paisley’s Pumpkin

by Carolyn j Morris illustrated by Richard McNaughton

A Woodpecker’s Tale

by Sean Cassidy

Exceptional Results with a Personal Touch

Pierce is a young woodpecker ready to fly and find his own dinner. But Mama woodpecker isn’t so sure. Will Pierce find some juicy bugs? Or will his run-ins with a grumpy skunk, a spooked possum, an intimidating owl and a whole hive of angry bees foil his first solo flight?

Young Paisley is delighted to find a pumpkin plant sprouting in the farm’s compost heap. Nurturing the seedling throughout the summer, she soon has an entire pumpkin patch. One of the pumpkins grows so big it might just win a ribbon at the fall fair!

Paisley’s Pumpkin is a wonderful addition to Carolyn j Morris’s series of children’s picture books about rural living. And as always, Richard McNaughton’s lovely watercolour illustrations bring the gentle stories to life.

Carolyn j Morris lives in Beeton, while Richard McNaughton lives in Grey County. (Railfence Books, 12.95)

An Ill Wind Blows

by Nathaniel Watt

RCR Realty, Brokerage.

Independently Owned & Operated.

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Sean Cassidy is an award-winning Orangeville author and illustrator.

His previous books include Good to Be Small, Wake Up, Henry Rooster! and Kazaak! Originally published in 2014, A Woodpecker’s Tale is now available in paperback. (Fitzhenry & Whiteside, $12.95)

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Learning how to solve sudoku puzzles is item number 19,999 on clinical psychologist Henry Little’s bucket list.

In other words, he hates them. But when his lawyer friend goes missing and a gruesome murder is committed, one of the detestable puzzles provides the only clue to solving the case and saving the day.

An Ill Wind Blows is the first book in Nathaniel Watt’s humorous Sudoku Murder Mystery series. He lives in Mono. (Watt Books, $10.50)

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by Diane Bator Gilda is up to her neck in drama in Dead Without Shame, the fourth instalment of the Gilda Wright Mystery series. First, there’s a robbery and murder at Happy Harvey’s Hangover Hut. Then Gilda’s boyfriend, owner of the karate school where she works, is acting weird. And as if that weren’t enough, her mother arrives. Uninvited! It’s more than a black-belt-obsessed gal can handle.

In Drop Dead Cowboy, Audra Clemmings, operator of Stitch ’n’ Time, a small craft shop, is implicated in the murder of a cowboy who was found dead during the town’s Halloween festivities. The suspicious circumstances leave Audra no choice but to investigate. Drop Dead Cowboy is the first book in Bator’s Sugarwood Mysteries.

Orangeville’s Diane Bator is also the author of the Wild Blue and Glitter Bay Mysteries. (BWL Publishing, $12.95 each)

Responsible? Hell No!

By Daniel Miklos Kolos In 2014, Daniel Miklos Kolos’s life changed when he attended a one-day workshop with Dr. Gabor Maté, author of In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction. Maté’s theory – that addiction almost always stems from childhood trauma and the damage it does to the chemistry of developing brains – hit him like a thunderclap.

Responsible? Hell No! is a guide to helping readers face the pain of their traumas and begin the work of healing.

Daniel Miklos Kolos, a former Egyptologist, is a certified personal coach and compassionate inquiry practitioner, certified by Maté himself. A long­ time Headwaters resident, he now lives in Durham. (Balboa Press, $24.95)

It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time

by Tom Griffiths Musician and world traveller Tom Griffiths is nuts. How else can you describe a man who enjoys cliff jumping at the Grand Canyon, swimming with giant bats in Ecuador, sleeping off a bender in a ditch in Jamaica and having his tent crushed by an elephant at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe?

Crazy travel stories abound in Griffiths’ It Seemed like a Good Idea at the Time. He lives in Alton. (Tom Griffiths, $35)

Writer Tracey Fockler works at BookLore, an independent bookstore in Orangeville, where she also facilitates a book club.

Candice and Rob MacPhee on their porch with sons Carter (left) and Finley.

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Covid Moment

BY JOHANNA BERNHARDT

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ithin a few weeks of the Covid shutdown in March, Mississauga photographer Nicole Lem was starting to get restless. Missing her work and her clients, she was feeling disconnected from the world. But then she got a call from her friend, Alice Keogh – and all that changed.

Alice encouraged Nicole to check out The Front Steps Project, a movement started in Massachusetts by photographers Kristen Collins and Cara Soulia. The project was an attempt to get neighbours out of the house and into some fresh air during a time of isolation. In lieu of a fee, the photographers asked residents to donate to a local charity. Within weeks the movement had spread to countries around the world, with more than 500 volunteer photographers participating.

Nicole knew the opportunity was exactly what she needed. She began taking photos locally and was thrilled with the response from residents. “They were so happy and so sweet,” she says. “They would call out from the porch laughing, ‘You gave me a reason to get dressed today.’”

It wasn’t long before Nicole’s friend Candice MacPhee found out about the project on social media and asked if Nicole would consider making her way to Candice’s home in Caledon. She made it worth Nicole’s time by contacting other area moms who were eager to participate.

Candice didn’t tell her husband, Rob, or their two boys – Finley was one at the time and Carter was nine – about the photo shoot until 15 minutes before Nicole arrived. “I wanted it to be natural,” she says. “It was such a great opportunity to document our experience of this time. I felt such gratitude that I could be home with my family. I didn’t know if I’d ever get that chance again to be a mom and a wife.”

Both Candice and Rob are fortunate to be able to work remotely, and she says she is cautiously optimistic about the current Covid situation: “We treat every day as a new day.” Looking back at the photo, she is glad her family could sit on the porch together and smile during such an uncertain time.

The Front Steps Project is now being released as a book (see thefrontstepsproject.com/the-book), portraying how communities worldwide have found ways to connect during a time of isolation.

Nicole’s photograph of the MacPhee family is included in the book. To date, the project has raised more than $3.35 million for international charities.

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Alexander McLachlan (1818–96)

Our Forgotten Poet

PAIN TING BY W. A . SHERWOOD, COURTE S Y MUSEUM OF DUFFERIN 2646 -2

In 1890, this portrait was presented to McLachlan at a tribute dinner. In 1967, it was reportedly found in rubble behind the furnace at the Orangeville Public Library.

A century ago Alexander McLachlan was one of the best known citizens of these hills, widely admired, respected and praised for his poetry.

Today hardly anyone has heard of him. How did this happen?

BY KEN WEBER

W

hen he came to Canada from Scotland in 1840, Alexander McLachlan was 22 years old and had no plan to be a poet. He had often dabbled in verse during his apprenticeship as a tailor, but that was a common diversion of the time. His plan, when he inherited his late father’s land near Rockside in Caledon Township, was to take it over and farm it. However, like his hero, Scottish poet Robert Burns, McLachlan never could seem to make it as a farmer.

In 1841, he married his cousin Clamina, sold half the Caledon property, moved to what is today Perth County, and over the next dozen years failed to make a go of two 44

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different farms. That likely explains why, in 1853, he and Clamina with their growing family (eventually to number 11 children) finally settled on a one-acre lot near the village of Erin. By now Alexander was gaining recognition for his poetry, but for financial security he was also relying on his early training as a tailor.

Farming would enter the picture again much later in 1877, this time on a hundred acres in Amaranth Township.

By all accounts his farming skills had not improved, but by this time Alexander McLachlan was a big name, for during his years in Erin Township he had become a genuinely famous poet. Not a wealthy one – more on that

later – but as early as the 1860s, he was an established man of note.

A man of note Two newspaper columns, years apart, offer some evidence of McLachlan’s stature in his day. In February 1872, the Orangeville Sun reprinted a lengthy review of his work by E.H. Dewart, a clergyman and prominent literary critic. In his 1864 anthology, Selections from the Canadian Poets, Dewart declared, “McLachlan, the gearless tailor of Erin, deserves to be among the recognized spiritual kings of the age like Shakespeare, Byron, and Schiller.” Lofty praise indeed, but by then such praise had become common in describing the poet.

In April 1890, Toronto’s Globe newspaper quoted equally lavish comments in its report of a banquet held at the city’s posh Walker House hotel where a literary who’s who had gathered. Academics, dignitaries and executives of a number of Scottish brotherhoods lavished accolades (along with a commissioned portrait and a pile of money) on the guest of honour, Alexander McLachlan.

His lectures and frequent poetry readings were celebrated events everywhere they were held, not just in Canada but internationally, and newspapers reported on them with enthusiasm, spreading his fame even farther. At that 1890 dinner, his most recent volume of poetry was already 16 years old, exemplifying his staying power. And the purse he received ($2,100) was built with funds donated by fans from all over Canada, as well as the United States and Scotland.

Alexander McLachlan – poet, lecturer, philosopher, farmer, tailor and citizen of our hills – was an international literary star.

A relatively modest output McLachlan’s lifetime work, aside from single poems in magazines and journals, appears in just five bound volumes, the first in 1846 was a selfpublished 36-page pamphlet. His first volume of marketable consequence came out in 1856 under the restrained title Poems. His second volume, Lyrics, was published in 1858, while the very popular The Emigrant and Other Poems appeared in 1861. Together these three publications offered just 130 poems, and in his last and most substantial volume, Poems and Songs, in 1874, there are only 96, many of which had already appeared in

magazines or journals. In all they represented less than a third of the output of the prolific Robbie Burns.

His contributions to magazines, of which there were many, were important to McLachlan not only as an important supplement to his income, but for their worth in solidifying his reputation. In publications such as Saturday Night and Canadian Monthly, his poetry praised citizens who supported themselves with their own labour. In the Scottish American, he painted Canada as a land where someone had the freedom to grow. In over 50 poems in Grip, a weekly satirical magazine, McLachlan took pokes at what he felt were the shortcomings of church and state. Taken together, these poems demonstrated both the breadth of his talent and the range of subject matter, serving to keep his name before a wider readership.

Young Canada Or, Jack’s As Good’s His Master I love this land of forest grand, The land where labor’s free; Let others roam away from home, Be this the land for me!

Where no one moils and strains and toils That snobs may thrive the faster, But all are free as men should be, And Jack’s as good’s his master!

Where none are slaves that lordly knaves May idle all the year;

What was so special about his poetry?

For rank and caste are of the past —

Any artist who catches a wave is lucky, and Alexander McLachlan caught three. For one, the 19th century was a golden age for poetry in the Western world, so his audience was primed and ready. A second wave rose here at home where his work was especially sweet music to Canadian ears, for McLachlan wrote often about the unlimited opportunity for self-reliant pioneers in this new land. (“A Backwoods Hero” in which he champions Daniel McMillan, the reputed founder of Erin village, is typical.)

His Canadian audience called McLachlan their “pioneer poet,” a phrase cemented by the popularity of “The Emigrant,” a poem that became a standard at recitals. It also pointed directly to the third and most influential wave McLachlan rode: the Robert Burns factor. The similarity of McLachlan’s work to that of Scotland’s legendary poet and popular folk hero was such that throughout his career and long after his death, he was known as the Robert Burns of Canada.

And Jew or Turk, if he’ll but work,

The Burns factor The unshakeable comparison to Burns was a badge – and arguably a stigma – that lifted McLachlan’s star to fame not just in Canada where Scottish culture and heritage was pervasive at the time, but internationally as well. There was much to connect the two poets.

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Their language is lyrical and the influence of Scottish dialect obvious.

They both wrote for plain folk and paid careful attention to rhythm and rhyme. And both were deeply touched by simple events their audiences readily understood – Burns, for example, when he addressed the “wee, sleekit, cow’rin, timorous beastie” of a mouse whose nest he had plowed up, and McLachlan when he eulogized his dead ox as “the hero of the field … I ne’er could think thou wert a brute, but just a silent brother!”

Also mutual was their belief in human and civil rights. In his “Address of Beelzebub,” Burns lamented the oppression in Scotland that forced tenants to flee to “the wilds of Canada.” In “The Emigrant,” McLachlan explained why he fled to those wilds. And in such poems as “The Man Who Rose from Nothing” he went on to elaborate why the wilds were preferable because they offered freedom and choice. That the two poets would be compared was inevitable, but perhaps because Burns came first and was far more established, McLachlan remained in his shadow.

So why have we forgotten him?

Could it be the Burns factor? During his productive time, McLachlan appears to have been entirely content to be a lesser partner. On tour in Scotland and the U.S. it seems he readily accepted introduction as a Scoto-Canadian or, inevitably, the Robert Burns of Canada. At poetry recitals, which were regular events in our hills and elsewhere in the 1800s, even though the point of the evening was his own poetry, McLachlan read from Burns’ work so regularly that newspapers highlighted that as the feature of the night.

Today, Burns’ own star mostly shines just once a year on January 25, when Robbie Burns Day suppers are held to celebrate his birthday, but there is no similar McLachlan Day tradition to keep the Canadian poet’s star from dimming.

Not just the Burns factor

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McLachlan’s stature may also suffer from a lingering Canadian tendency to forget or ignore our own. In 1961, for example, on the anniversary of his death, the Toronto Star buried a short piece in the bottom of a back section under the headline “Dufferin Farmer Wrote Verse in Burns Tradition.” By comparison, just a few years later, on the 150th anniversary of McLachlan’s birth, a Scottish newspaper, the Johnstone Advertiser, ran a full-page memorial under the headline “The Patriot Poet of Canada.”

Also, unlike Burns and his notorious escapades with women (he illegitimately fathered at least three children), there was no whiff of scandal about McLachlan to embellish his legend. His long and contented marriage to Clamina was not the kind to tickle gossip. What was publicly known were the chronic financial difficulties he endured throughout his career. In the 1870s, a fundraiser for McLachlan was openly initiated here in the hills by a letter to the editor from a resident of Mono, and the purse he received in 1890 was explicitly presented as financial relief. But it’s rare for poverty to burnish celebrity.

McLachlan was never a self-promoter, and though he once included a tribute from Susanna Moodie in one of his books, such behaviour was rare. He also had influential fans such as Fathers of Confederation George Brown and Thomas D’Arcy McGee, but he was not inclined to lean on them to boost his career. (In 1856 McGee arranged for McLachlan to be an emigrant agent in Scotland. On tours, McLachlan would read his poetry and then describe the wonders of pioneer life in Canada, telling Scottish audiences that winter is the best time of year.)

“His memory will be revered” Still, it would be wrong to conclude that our poet of these hills has disappeared entirely. University of Toronto Press published a collection of his works in 1974 (calling him “an eminent though neglected figure”), and a British publisher, Forgotten Books, reissued much of his poetry in 2012. A brief skim of either publication confirms Alexander McLachlan deserves to be remembered.

A path to elevating that remem­ brance to the level it deserves might well be found in his obituary in the Orangeville Sun. After selling the Amaranth farm, Alexander and Clamina enjoyed a quiet year of retirement in their home on Elizabeth Street in Orangeville, where McLachlan died in 1896. On the occasion, Sun editor John Foley offered this summary and what he must have hoped would be a prediction: “While others strove for wealth and looked out for themselves, our poet spent his days in the nobler task of lightening the cares and lifting the burdens of his fellow men. His memory will be revered, as it ought to be, by generations yet unborn.”

Caledon writer Ken Weber is author of the internationally best-selling Five Minute Mystery series as well as Ken Weber’s Historic Hills, a collection of his columns from this magazine.

Task force members (left to right) Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson, Soha Soliman, Geer Harvey and Althea Casamento.

Up to the task

In an email roundtable spanning a few days in October, four members of Shelburne’s Anti-Black Racism, Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force discussed their mission and the vision they have for Shelburne.

BY TRALEE PEARCE

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PHOTOGR APHY BY ROSEMARY HASNER

s Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson and Althea Casamento wrapped up their online Anti-Black Racism, Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force presentation to Shelburne town council the evening of October 5, their closing slide was a fitting coda to an intense process that had started in June.

A photo showed the town’s diverse, peaceful – joyful, even – Black Lives Matter march on June 14. The task force had already been proposed by then, fuelled by a global sense of urgency about anti-Black racism. But for those who believe Shelburne can do better by its growing number of Black, Indigenous and minority citizens (in total, about 20 per cent of the town’s total population), the march affirmed that they were on the right side of history.

“You gotta pinch yourself – it was a moment,” said Deputy Mayor Steve Anderson, recalling how it felt to look back at the crowd from where he was walking with Mayor Wade Mills.

“This is really happening. I knew we had a mandate.”

Anderson made the initial motion to council to establish the task force on June 8. Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson was named chair and the 14-person task force held its first meeting June 19.

The group’s recommendations to the town include antiracism and “diversity, equity and inclusion” (DEI) training, regular equity audits, and grants for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of colour) youth programs.

“It was amazing to see such a diverse group of individuals C O N T I N U E D O N N E X T PA G E

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www.altonmill.ca

come together to work on a collective goal with town council,” says O’HaraStephenson. “That is a testament to the power of working together for the greater good.”

Not only has the town accepted the recommendations, but officials from other jurisdictions and organizations have asked for the report to study – including Headwaters Communities in Action, Dufferin County, Nipissing University and the City of Brampton.

In late October Dufferin County also announced the members of its first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Community Advisory Committee.

That key blueprints for institutional change are coming from a small rural town north of Toronto, one often perceived as very conservative, is a point of pride for Anderson. “If you got the press release from Brampton or Toronto, that makes sense,” he says.

“But for a rural town to be leading the charge? It takes people to lead by example and it takes large parts of the community buying in. People are now standing and taking note about the great work we are doing in the town of Shelburne to make our community safe, prosperous and welcoming to all.”

We asked four task force members – chair O’Hara-Stephenson, who works in business continuity management in the financial services industry; vice-chair Casamento, the director of Orangeville’s Choices Youth Shelter; secretary Geer Harvey, a social worker at Centre Dufferin District High School; and Soha Soliman, a Grade 10 student at CDDHS – to join us for an email roundtable.

Tralee Pearce : How profound a catalyst was George Floyd’s death to the formation of the task force? Black Lives Matter has been protesting since 2013. Why was this the right moment for Shelburne?

Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson : This was already a very difficult year for the Black community with so many affected by Covid-19. When Ahmaud Arbery was murdered, it was traumatic. When Breonna Taylor

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was murdered, it was yet another traumatic situation. When George Floyd was murdered, this was the catalyst for change. When the video was circulating, I didn’t want to watch it, but I finally did and it was painful.

When George cried out for his mom, my heart ached. In that moment I saw my sons, I saw my dad, I saw my uncles, my brothers, my friends.

When George’s lifeless body was on the stretcher and there was no attempt to revive him, it was as if his life was of no value – no different than hauling out the trash. It wasn’t just some person, this was my pain. I felt it. This is what critical race theorist William Smith calls “racial battle fatigue.” I cried for a week. I was disappointed in the world and disappointed in myself for not doing more.

The exposure to all of these murders, the daily micro aggressions faced by the BIPOC community and my lived experiences are all very exhausting and traumatic. We could not turn off those feelings.

After a week of mourning and healing, I got up and started to act.

I reached out to our leaders asking each and every one of them what they were going to do to make sure our community is safe. These issues of racism and discrimination are not unique to the United States.

No longer could the world pretend these murders weren’t happening.

The Black community was already heavily taxed mentally, physically and emotionally. And you have the world on lockdown with so many home from work and school. This was the perfect environment for individuals to take a stand.

If you noticed, most of the BLM marches were led by young people – and here in Dufferin County by young women. You have young, intelligent and strong leaders who had had enough and were no longer willing to accept the status quo.

Geer Harvey : It was like the world woke up to what Black people have been saying for a long time about institutional, structural and interpersonal racism.

The Ahmaud Arbery, Amy Cooper and George Floyd events created the perfect storm. With Amy Cooper

“Part of this BLM moment is correcting

Soha Soliman : The death of George Floyd hit every­one in the heart.

White people do not walk out of their house with the fear they will be treated differently and killed because of something they can’t control. But Black people do.

This always seemed scary and big – too much of a task for such a small town as Shelburne to tackle. But seeing that video and realizing that change, justice, equality and equity has to reach every corner of the world, passionate and determined leaders in our community held hands to make our town feel like home for people of all races, religions, genders, cultures and faiths.

Althea Casamento : The global reaction to George Floyd’s death was profound because it was the first incident I know of that was very public.

The entire world could feel what happened to him. It gave credibility to what the BIPOC community has been saying for years. There was no more denying we are treated differently.

Like the majority of the world who saw the video, my heart broke. I was angry! I reached out to another com­ munity leader to discuss what I had seen. I remember saying, “What are we going to do? We can’t just let this go.”

This was the “right moment for

Shelburne.” I added the quotes because many of Shelburne’s BIPOC community leaders have long been working hard on creating change and educating others about the injustice we face. We as a community couldn’t accept this.

TP : The task force gathered informa­ tion in a survey, a focus group and in presentations from local groups. There were examples of racial profiling, harassment and a lack of diversity in institutions.

What stories stood out?

AO : There were several stories that stood out for me but the most profound was hearing the story of someone requiring medical care refusing care because the person providing care was from the BIPOC community. This level of ignorance just blew my mind. I could not and still can’t comprehend this.

GH : There was one story that stuck out for me and it highlighted how George Floyd’s death made being racist intolerable. There is a man in town who called out racism in a very public way and the backlash he received was incredible. It was a textbook case of the struggle that white people have talking about race. (See Robin DiAngelo’s book, White Fragility.) I wonder if this man would have received more empathy post George Floyd.

This current movement for racial justice provides white people with an opportunity to do better. It provides us as a community a chance to grow.

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(a Canadian), the world got to see how white privilege is weaponized to harm Black people. With Ahmaud Arbery, they got to see a modern day example of a lynching. With George Floyd, the world got to see the indifference to the lives of Black people. Correction: The world got to see it and they believed it this time.

This was the time for Shelburne to take stock because the growth in population in the last census reflected an increase in the number of BIPOC in the town. And because racism exists. It was the right time for town council to add their voice to this global movement and say we acknowledge that racism exists and we want to do better. Part of being antiracist means you use your voice to speak up against injustice. Taking action in this movement is a tangible way to demonstrate you care, a tangible way of acknowledging BIPOC humanity.

AC : Many of the presentations from community members and agencies further supported what many were saying for years. This was just a formal way of capturing the data. Many stated they tried to bring forward complaints or requests for support but were not being heard.

SS : It was actually my own story which drove my work. At my elemen­ tary school, I was continually harassed and bullied for my hijab and being of a different ethnicity and race. One day the same group of boys followed C O N T I N U E D O N N E X T PA G E

where we have gone wrong.” —Geer Harvey

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This experience was traumatic and will forever haunt me as I walk around with the fear that a piece of my faith can be snatched off me in a second.

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TP : You made specific recommenda­ tions to the Upper Grand District School Board, including asking for a more transparent complaint process and more diversity among staff. Geer, as a school social worker, and Soha, as a student, can you tell us more? Is there a sense that what happens at school is hidden from the rest of us in the community?

SS : What happens at our school is hidden from the rest of the community. People inside the school, especially the ones who should know, such as the principal, are not aware of what happens in their school. When they are told their reaction is always “Wow, really?” and “I never knew that could happen” and “Are you sure that’s 12:11 P what happened to you?”

They do not want a reputation of tolerance for racism and discrimina­ tion against BIPOC students but have not been educating students’ parents and families.

When I speak to members of the community, they say they thought their town was very diverse and inclusive and a place people would feel proud to call home. But that isn’t the case for many, including me.

What happens at school is so crucial because it seriously affects mental health, academic performance and overall outlook. Students feel that teachers treat them differently because they look different. They may not feel like even continuing with their work anymore, leading to bad grades and increased stress levels.

I want my school to feel like a second home when I walk in. I do not want to feel stressed, degraded and judged for who I am. I should be able to carry myself with pride and peace.

GH : Those who have children in the system know the stories. The recom­ mendation for transparency in com­ plaint procedures is about seeking accountability. One of the resounding themes I heard in the focus group was the need to know the next step. The civil rights movement taught us many things, one of which is that institutions need to be held accountable for the lip service they offer. Asking for trans­ parency in the complaint procedure is about students knowing they can trust their concerns can be followed up on.

AO : Geer’s points around account­ ability are critical because the school is where our future leaders are being moulded and shaped. When the concerns, opinions and incidents of discrimination of our students are dismissed or not addressed, it forms their views of the world around them – and further feeds into the system that is designed with barriers in place.

What gets tracked and measured gets done.

Likewise representation in our schools matters. Students need to be able to envision a future of possibilities and that can only occur when they can see themselves in the role of teacher, for example.

TP : The recommendations start with short-term goals, such as creating safe spaces and times for people to talk about these issues, and encouraging the use of local or historic BIPOC names when new streets need naming. Do you see these as quick wins? Do they help build momentum for bigger asks?

SS : No, I don’t see this as a quick win. This will be the first step to some bigger tasks. A street named after a person from the BIPOC community remains in our town forever. After driving the street, people may be interested in looking up the name.

They will learn about the work the BIPOC community has done and how that will affect or has affected their lives. I like to think of it as a form of education, breaking some stereotypes and ignorance. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most

“I don’t believe in quick wins. Everything

powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Even if a safe space is not established physically, it can be established emotionally and mentally. It will help many on their worst days, allowing them to talk to people who look like them, feel like them, hear like them, see like them and experience like them so they know they aren’t alone.

GH : Part of this BLM moment is correcting where we have gone wrong.

The naming of public spaces is lowhanging fruit, a tangible step the town can take. It also requires some acknowledgment of the land we are on and the ignored contributions of BIPOC people. I wish I had a better word but our history and culture as Canadians have been whitewashed, with the story of white contributors being the only story that we have heard. Consider that the two official languages of Canada are English and French – how is that possible when there were people here before the settlers? (I recognize Indigenous peoples have many languages.)

AO : I am hesitant to use the words quick win because I don’t want to take away from the impact of such a change.

However, these are small steps towards recognizing our diversity, celebrating our uniqueness and moving towards more structural change. The visual impact will also instil a sense of pride, especially in our youth who will be reminded of the value and contributions of people who look like them.

part because it begins to change who is inside that system?

AO : Hiring a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion person is not about changing who is on the inside but ensures that there is a permanent diversity and equity lens on all systems and processes. Many organizations are reacting to the murder of George Floyd by putting out statements of support, but statements alone cannot change centuries-old structures.

By hiring a DEI person, we will be able to focus on many of the task force’s recommendations, short term and long term. They will look at things like hiring practices, ensuring the language used doesn’t automatically discriminate. The town can extend the reach of their recruiting strategies to target a diverse talent pool – therefore getting the best talent to grow our community. Finally this individual can help facilitate training for staff and update policies with a DEI focus to ensure that policies don’t act as barriers to access and opportunity.

This will not be an easy role, but it is a critical role in creating a community that will be diverse and inclusive for all.

TP : Althea, since 2018, you have been bringing the community together for Multicultural Day to celebrate the many cultures represented in the town. You have already voted for a neighbourly approach. Are you optimistic that Shelburne could be poised to set an example for other communities like it?

AC : I am also hoping if the safe spaces are used appropriately, they will inspire even more ideas and action. I think all of this will ultimately lead to a community that is supportive of its community members. I don’t believe in quick wins. Everything takes time and effort.

AC : I would say Shelburne is already setting an example for many other communities. We just needed to get through the initial growing phase that every community goes through when there has been a drastic increase in population and demographics over a short time. Our community as a whole is very welcoming.

TP : And now the biggest ask: that council hire a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion staff member, which many other Canadian municipalities have. Why is this a necessary step to tackle systemic racism? Is it in

This roundtable has been edited and condensed.

info@alineadesign.com Stay safe and healthy! We’ll get through this together. the way!

For a full list of task force members, the task force report and other resources, visit this story at www.inthehills.ca.

takes time and effort.” —Althea Casamento

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Cristina Repanovici How a designer found her groove in Caledon East by offering one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces and sculptural clothing creations.

BY JOHANNA BERNHARDT

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Cristina Repanovici works on a new piece in her Criopia studio in Caledon East. inset : One of her distinctive bold, chunky necklaces.

hen I arrive at Caledon East clothing and jewellery studio Criopia, owner Cristina Repanovici ushers me in like a long-lost friend. I have no chance to even look at her clothing because the first order of business is peach tea and cheese pie (at a distance). “I like to create an experience,” she says, as we sit and chat in a bright room filled with shelves of neatly folded fabric.

After two pieces of pie (her idea), I watch her happily pull up to a large wooden table in the next room, where pieces of pumpkin orange fabric are laid out neatly. Behind her is a huge shelf filled with jars of wooden beads, buttons, ribbon and cording.

She is working on a coat, embellishing it with black circles and waxed cotton cord from Japan. Cristina’s process is as unconventional as her curvy, layered and sculptural pieces. Her inspiration always starts with the fabric: “Sometimes I don’t even use a pattern, I just start cutting!”

The showroom portion of the space expresses her minimalist design esthetic. Rich earth-toned tunics, coats and scarves with pockets are displayed against bright white walls covered in black polka dots. Her bold, handmade jewellery provides colourful accents everywhere.

At Criopia, Cristina caters to women in their 40s and older, women ready for unique, uber-individual clothing. Using natural fabrics such as wool, linen and silk, as well as some poly-blends that lend themselves to easy maintenance, each piece is made to be highly versatile. Some can even be worn inside out. “My clothing is for real women, not Barbies,” she says. “You have to believe you’re beautiful, and clothing has a big impact on that.”

It’s hard to reconcile Cristinas’s résumé as a chemical engineer and longtime corporate employee with the bohemian woman whose eyes dance as we speak. Cristina grew up in Communist-ruled Romania, but her childhood was filled with “love, great values and good education.” Although she did her best to keep up with convention, she admits, “My soul was screaming to find an outside expression.”

Say “I love you” ... without

Her father called her aspirations “green horses on the wall,” a Romanian expression that means dreaming the impossible dream. So she did her “homework,” obtaining her degree, getting married, and landing a good job. But after moving to Canada in her 30s, she felt that old artistic calling. And this time she listened. While working full-time over the years, she pursued several artistic avenues, ultimately finding her passion in creating clothing. She was drawn to Scandinavian and German fashion, where minimalism, asymmetry and layering reign supreme. When I ask where she learned to sew, she smiles.

“My husband taught me to sew in university. I’m not a seamstress. My lines are very simple.”

Cristina uses flattering, formfitting cuts to accentuate the waistline and elongate the lower body. “The bottom of the piece is where I play!” she laughs. “I use pockets, draping, asymmetry, underskirts, anything that is good for layering.”

She also has strong opinions about fast fashion, the antithesis of her craft.

“I don’t go by trends,” she says. “You don’t have to change your look every season. Pieces should be timeless and we should have less quantity, better quality. Too many clothes go into the garbage.”

Better-made clothing does mean a higher price tag, with tunics ranging from $185 to $265 and cozy coats in the $300 to $450 range. The amount of work that goes into each piece is extraordinary and as Cristina says, “These still aren’t designer prices.”

In 2014 Cristina went all in with Criopia, and in 2017 she and her supportive husband, Radu, along with their three dogs and three cats, moved to Caledon East from Mississauga as an experiment. The experiment definitely worked out. “We love it here,” she says, delighted by the natural beauty of the countryside and the “unbelievably friendly women and local entrepreneurs. Moving here expanded my network in a big way.”

Normally, Cristina would now be in the midst of her busiest time of year, selling her line at winter clothing showcases and considering the occasional custom order, but because of Covid, all events have been cancelled. So this entrepreneur, who is also a professional organizer, has launched a website (criopia. com) so customers can view her portfolio and find a link to Etsy, where her wares are available.

(Details of her organizing business can be found at timealacarte.com.)

As the afternoon goes on, Cristina smiles and asks, “You haven’t asked what ‘Criopia’ means yet!” I urge her to explain, and she tells me it’s a combination of her name, Cristina, and the word utopia because, she says, “Now I get to do what I love!” It seems Cristina has found those green horses after all, here in the land of Criopia.

Johanna Bernhardt is a freelance writer who lives in Orangeville.

P E T E PAT E R S O N

A geometric Criopia necklace and trademark outerwear in red and shades of grey.

PHOTOS PE TE PATERSON

saying a word

www.gallerygemma.com A FA B U LO U S S E L E C T I O N O F R I N G S A N D OT H E R F I N E J E W E L L E R Y

1 4 02 Q U E E N S T R E E T W E S T • S U I T E 1 02 • A LTO N , C A L E D O N , O N TA R I O I N F O @ G A L L E R YG E M M A .C O M • 51 9 - 9 3 8 - 8 3 8 6 • G A L L E R YG E M M A .C O M

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local buys What we’re shopping for this winter in Headwaters

BY JANICE QUIRT

Pottery with personality

HE ATHER POLLOCK

Tracey Morse of Pepper Pottery in Grand Valley imbues cheekiness and cheer into her ceramic creations. Her mini houses are incredibly versatile. Small abodes make lovely ring holders or salt dishes, while the large sizes are a decorative way to pot a plant. Her tree ornaments are adorable holiday finds too. (Houses $18–$26, moose ornament $8.50, Pepper Pottery and Holiday Treasures)

Hooked on rugs These hooked rugs by Erin Tarves are so gorgeous they go on your walls, not underfoot. The Mono artist draws her own designs, some of which feature a touch of whimsy while others showcase classic images, such as the snowman-building session above. She uses wool fabric and yarn to achieve her hallmark rich colours and nubby textures. Rugs, which can take two months to complete, come framed and ready to hang. Available in a range of sizes including 17x14, 19x26 or 28x25 inches. (Rugs $150–$700, Holiday Treasures)

Dream weaver Orangeville’s Elizabeth Bryan of Weaverbee Textiles brings 30 years’ experience to her handwoven scarves, bags and tea towels.

With their rich colours – think layers of deep gold or verdant green – and refined look, you can accessorize (and dry dishes) in style this winter. (Scarves $150–$195, Weaverbee Textiles and Holiday Treasures)

Colour my world Trina Gray of Shelburne’s My Little Crayon Co. crafts bright, cheerful letters and shapes in a mind-boggling array of colours.

Display the alphabet or spell out names and favourite sayings to add a bespoke element to kids’ rooms and nursery decor.

Or add a touch of youthfulness to a holiday mantel with Ho Ho Ho. (Letters $2 each, alphabet $40, My Little Crayon Co.)

sources Pepper Pottery, Grand Valley. www.facebook.com/Pepper-Pottery-1892162037513833. @pepperpottery on Instagram Holiday Treasures Show, Dec 1–12. Museum of Dufferin, Airport Rd & Hwy 9, Mulmur. 519-941-1114. www.dufferinmuseum.com Weaverbee Textiles, Orangeville. www.weaverbee.ca My Little Crayon Co., Shelburne. www.facebook.com/MyLittleCrayonCo. @my_little_crayon_co on Instagram

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Erin, where you feel naturally inspired and genuinely at home.

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music

The year in

our annual r eview of new recordings by local musicians

BY SCOT T BRUYEA

“A Faith Falcon Jane Untangling belief systems and making sense of challenging loss inspired the music on Faith, Sara May’s new album, released under the Falcon Jane moniker.

Produced nearly entirely in May’s home, the recording was created in collaboration with Andrew McArthur and features the mixing and sonic enhancements of Evan Gordon of The Magic. The result is an invitation to eavesdrop on songs May originally intended to be “from me to me.”

This album feels more considered and reflective than Feelin’ Freaky, its predecessor. On Faith, convictions about love, life and the stories we are all fed throughout our collective pasts are up for contemplation.

“The Other Moon,” dedicated to May’s nonna, and the heavenly harmony of its final chorus, as well as the edgier “Take Your Turn” are standouts.

The November release of Faith may have granted May something tangible to hold after working through her losses. Faith may do just that for the rest of us as well.

Faith is available digitally and on black vinyl, as well as on limitededition cassette and sunset gold vinyl.

Let It Rest, Let It Rise Nathan Smith I’ve watched Nathan Smith work musical magic for a live audience with his fiddle, an acoustic guitar, a dash of charm and the smoothest voice ever. Now, with the release of Let It Rest, Let It Rise, that enchantment is finally captured to be enjoyed at leisure.

Smith, who plays locally with the Campfire Poets, blends evocative original lyrics and melodies to create an alchemic combination of bluegrass, Celtic, Appalachian old-time, traditional Québécois and French balfolk. Every track on Let It Rest, Let It Rise is performed to perfection with “Citygrass Jamboree,” “Dinosaurs” and “Cold Water” standing out.

Don’t miss hearing and enjoying Smith’s superlative collaboration with Emilyn Stam (piano, accordion, fiddle, harmony vocals), Alan Mackie (upright bass, harmony vocals), Anh Phung (flute, mandolin, harmony vocals), Hannah Naiman (clawhammer banjo, harmony vocals) and Don Kerr (harmony vocals and production).

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rrange whatever pieces come your way.” I remember the first time I read these words by novelist Virginia Woolf.

At the time I was in crisis, surrounded by challenges. So I began arranging everything I could control and that was within immediate reach. Suddenly I felt better. Circumstances improved.

This Covid year has been calamitous for many, but at the same time, I’m astounded by the strength of the human spirit. Heroes and quiet leaders are taking action, focusing on the good, arranging what can be controlled and creating plans to move forward.

In the music community, activity continues and there is much to celebrate. Artists refuse to be constrained by crisis, despite having their proverbial feet kicked out from under them. Creators will not be denied. They just arrange.

Local musicians have shown their mettle by collaborating creatively at a distance to bring live, extraordinary music to audiences. In a typical year, for example, Ryan Hancock leads the Campfire Poets in countless stage performances. This year he has gathered musicians virtually to create and post their collaborations on YouTube.

Each musician involved records a video of a particular song and sends the digital files to Hancock, who edits and assembles the contributions into a polished musical whole. The project provides a triumphant outlet for performers whose live performances have been curtailed. Check out the Big Canadian Musical Collaboration on the Campfire Poets’ Facebook page.

Music teachers, too, are finding ways to reach students from a safe distance, and original music, created and recorded using newly accessible technologies, is becoming common.

Sara Rose of Hockley created two beautiful videos in 2020.

“Ashton’s Song” celebrates the life of a dear friend, and “Old Fashioned Summer Night” focuses on the joys of summer gatherings.

Indie folk and soul artist Erin Bolton is also diligently writing music for an album targeted for release next year. It will be brimming with songs developed while she grappled with her own intense songwriting challenges during quarantine.

Inspiration is everywhere for those who are looking, and this year “Something to Talk About,” written by multitalented Mono singer-songwriter Shirley Eikhard, was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. Recorded by Bonnie Raitt, the hit song propelled the blues artist to a 1992 Grammy Award for best female pop vocal performance.

During this debilitating year, another Canadian musician, perhaps one of our local artists, may have created something that will also become a legendary masterwork. With this in mind, I invite you to listen to, enjoy and support all the music presented here. You may just find a future award winner to talk about.

I’ll Be the Meteor Sohayla Smith Brideland Devin and the Dark Light Devin Hentsch had my attention the moment I heard the riff from “Amaranth Mammoth” on Devin and the Dark Light’s 2013 release, Fake Spring. Since then I’ve continued to watch this artist evolve. His band’s latest album, Brideland, may be some of his most beguiling work yet.

With an up-tempo rhythm created by guest drummer Cory Bruyea, the opening track, “Cellphone Light,” hums along like a finely tuned Benz.

Justin McDonald deftly provides the guitar and harmonica handiwork, and Hentsch’s vocal performance is the strongest I’ve heard from this artist.

“Broken Heart,” a yearning ballad that’s presented in a style reminiscent of the 1950s, reflects on loss and the struggle of others to support a loved one disabled by grief.

This is a very personal song for Hentsch, and Sara May has produced a powerful partner video that aptly conveys the emotion involved.

Brideland concludes with the exquisite “Throwin’ Candy.” The track’s dreamy vocals, which dance with an inventive drum and bass loop provided by bassist Andrew Steele, may just steal the show.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Sohayla Smith and her husband, musician Adrian Smith, still believe in the art of the album and that music lovers want to embrace a tangible collection of music. Their latest recording, I’ll Be the Meteor, makes a compelling case for this belief.

A musical therapist, teacher and performer based in Shelburne, Smith has a passion for music that is palpable and steadfast. This passion permeates every one of the 10 original songs on I’ll Be the Meteor as each track reveals her feelings about relationships.

The barn-burning opening anthem, “Burn It to the Ground,” starts a musical junket that guides listeners through Smith’s reflections on a joyous relationship in “Kettle Corn Kisses” and “The Man You Are” to a triumphant tribute to the power of new love in healing the lingering hurt of losing an old one in “Erase You.” Smith doesn’t object to a little grit in her music, and bolstered by the clarity of her voice the music on I’ll Be the Meteor is a definitive win for the idea of an album as a concept.

Starting Mercy Erick Bruck

Robber The Weather Station After three years The Weather Station is back with new music. Tamara Lindeman, who fuels this project, has released Robber, a new EP that is complex, conflicted, and layered with tension and concern.

Although the sound of Robber is fresh, clean and driven by an engaging rhythm, Lindeman’s lyrics question current ideologies, mistaken ideas of love and what “robbers” might be up to.

Robber bears repeated listening, and the accompanying video finds Lindeman behind the camera as well as in front of it as she conveys the complicated idea behind this song. The video’s many characters reflect various backstories as they interact with Lindeman in a shadowy forest setting.

Robber is available for download on all the usual platforms, as well as on seven-inch vinyl, with a B side available only on the vinyl version.

Robber is here. It’s epic.

I’ve always known that Erick Bruck is brilliant behind a drum kit, but in addition to his live performances, he has in recent years been quietly honing his engineering and musical production skills to the benefit of artists like Erin Bolton and Fountain Bell.

With Starting Mercy, Bruck steps into the solo spotlight himself, presenting listeners with a collection of eight original synth-pop tracks immersed in groove. The collection reveals the full scope of Bruck’s talents, from vocal flair and drumming prowess to sonic sculpting. Each song is built on a foundation of deep and muscular rhythms bathed in layered vocals that reflect a satisfying essence of Merseyside.

From the opening track, “All the Same to Me,” to “Sad Eyes” (a personal favourite) to “Wave,” the final song, the uplifting vibe is infectious – to the point where I cranked up the sound in my car to the full-tilt setting with joyous results.

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Wally Jericho Creators of original music use various cyber venues to share their talents and music in the current marketplace.

And so it is with Wally Jericho, who in recent years has abandoned making music for sale in favour of posting his musical musings on his YouTube channel as a gift to everyone.

Jericho’s 2020 offerings include “Trois vignettes bleues,” “May I” and “Dark Room,” as well as moody collaborations with Indian actor Aditi Sharma. All revolve around piano, synths, saxophone, trumpet and drums paired with video images. The offerings are pleasingly ethereal, eminently relaxing and well worth investigating.

Wally Jericho has provided musical support to many Orangevillearea musicians, including the legendary Houseplants. He is also an iPhoneography addict who shares his work on Instagram.

I’m hoping for more content from this artist in the future and thank him for sharing his gifts at a time when we can all use more creations with an affirmative message.

Translucent Dream Graham Maycock So many things in life have a sweet spot. My titanium golf driver has one, and of course, there’s a sweet spot on Rafael Nadal’s tennis racket. This spot is not always apparent until you land on it – and then you know.

So it is with Graham Maycock’s latest release, Translucent Dream.

He has definitely found the magic spot.

After following this artist since before his 2016 album Gray, I can say that Translucent Dream brings his music to a perfect landing. This latest album has a more relaxed, less keyboard-centric sound, with vocal work that is more judiciously presented but still exquisitely smooth and soaring.

All the tracks have an R&B and soul essence, as well as some sublime guitar work that ups the cool factor.

“Bittersweet” is assembled to perfection, while “Can’t Stop Time” grooves along deliciously.

“Resurrection” has the funkiest guitar-and-keyboard interplay merged with a strapping drum back beat and those quintessential Maycock vocals.

Translucent Dream hit the sweet spot. And it knocked me out!

Sweet Leela Russell Allen Scott

FA M I LY V I N E YA R D S

®

The first time I heard Russell Allen Scott’s Sweet Leela, I felt an immediate connection. The album was recorded at Hockley Valley’s Ecology Retreat Centre, where Scott once conducted healing retreats, and his time living in the Orangeville area inspired many of the songs.

The recording’s inviting and elegant tone takes listeners from a jazz swing on “Mr. Almost Mostly” to a bittersweet blues tune about spiritbreaking labour in the name of love on “Hardpan” to a waltz of lament on “Little Saviours.” On “Black and Blues” and “That’s the Way,” Larry Kurtz provides harmonica embellishments and Lisa Watson offers warm backing vocals throughout.

The album is dedicated to Scott’s daughter, Leela, whom he sings about lovingly in “Sweet Leela,” an uplifting tune about a special promise.

Sweet Leela is a musical and poetic delicacy available at russellscottfolk.com or by emailing russell9 scott@gmail.com.

Central Valley go deep. We’ve been working this land for five generations, since 1938. It’s more than our home, it’s a living part of our family’s history.

Today, McManis Family Vineyards cultivates more than 3,600 acres throughout the region. Even though we’ve grown over the years, we’re still hands-on about our vineyards and our wine. That’s heritage in the making.

FROM OUR UNIQUE PORTFOLIO OF ESTATE AND ARTISAN WINES

www.thevineagency.ca The complete range of McManis wines is available directly from theVineAgency.ca for home delivery. McManis Cabernet Sauvignon is a ‘Vintages Essential’ – always available at the LCBO. Please enjoy responsibly.

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Scott Bruyea is a musician, web content writer and sales consultant who lives in Orangeville.

Our roots here in California’s North-

RY

Musicians find catharsis in creating and sharing original music with others. Fortunately, this year Tyler Reed has chosen to release two EPs recorded in real time, completely improvised while borrowing ideas from ambient, jazz and post-rock genres.

A bass player with Delaney and the Sohayla Smith Band, Reed also teaches at Tritone Music School in Orangeville. Like many musicians who rely on live performances and in-person music instruction, he has found 2020 exasperating. As a result, he’s sharing the unique emotional soundscapes he recorded this year, reflecting his musical headspace and a style both ruminative and relaxing.

Both sides A and B of Easter were born out of frustration and recorded late at night on Easter Sunday, while “Snow Day” and “Eddie and Grace,” the tracks on Snowdaze, were written in 2018 but reached fruition this year. “Eddie and Grace” was inspired by guitarist Eddie Hazel of Funkadelic.

Reed uses guitar and bass and pedals to incorporate loops and drones into his pieces to satisfying effect, and he is currently working on a full album scheduled for release in the near future.

FA M I LY O W N E D F I V E G E N E R AT I O N S

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Easter + Snowdaze Tyler Reed

Legacy.

N IVER

CONTACT: WINE@THEVINEAGENCY.CA / 416 .693 . 7994

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skeptical about the as w e sh e, ill ev ng ra O me back to e “dream space.” ca tiv ay ea cr M a ra as Sa w n ia ed ic er us ov m sc When up in. What she di small town she’d grown

I

came back to Orangeville when I was 22, after spending five years immersed in the hustle and bustle of the big city. I was fresh out of university, bright-eyed, bushytailed, and very skeptical about the small town I’d grown up in. A town that, for me, was riddled with teenage memories and emotions that rode the line between traumatic and hilarious.

A town I never paid much attention to, having spent my time here on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting to get away to bigger, better places.

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At that point I’d been writing and performing music for about five years.

I had just graduated from my long stint of touring open mics around the city and had started playing shows on my own, as a solo singer-songwriter under the name “Falcon Jane.”

Once I came back to Orangeville I started casually jamming with my friend Jay, completely unaware this collaboration would lay the ground­ work for Falcon Jane becoming the musical force it is today. We both played guitar, and got together about

once a week to fiddle around with the songs I’d written. We had visions of performing live but no concrete plans or show dates.

One day in late 2013, I received an out-of-the-blue message from Ricky Schaede, a name I didn’t know at the time, but would later become a fixture not only in my life, but also in the Orangeville arts scene. He said he worked at Euphoria Café and had heard about me through my mom, who owns Maggiolly Art Supplies. He asked if I’d be interested in performing

at what he referred to as a “fundraiser jamboree at a new art space on Broadway called Club Art.” Figuring it would be a good opportunity for Jay and me to premiere our new two-piece band, I agreed.

And so it began.

I didn’t know what to expect, as you never really do with live shows.

All you can do is show up, adapt to the environment, play your best and hope someone is listening. I remember climbing the long flight of stairs up to the third floor of what used to be As

High on Art Sara May jamming with her band buddies (left to right) Andrew McArthur, James Webster, and Jay Kuschmierz at Club Art in 2014.

thought I knew, the town in which I had previously spent 10 years feeling like a visitor. It was a fresh, loving community, bursting at the seams with imagination and excitement.

What followed were two years of riding the vibe of newfound friendships, the excitement of getting to know someone new, and also getting reacquainted with the town we had almost written off. Orangeville felt like a dream space. I immediately ditched my city life and moved back to Hockley. I went to Paws and Claws and the Salvation Army and bought myself a wardrobe that matched my mood – bright colours, surreal patterns, bedazzled, bejewelled, beautiful. I dug hard into my music, and vowed to pursue it without inhibition.

As a group we were unstoppable.

We sauntered up and down Broadway, serendipitously found each other at Euphoria, and followed wherever the day would take us. Falcon Jane quickly grew from two to four, and we continued playing at Club Art, walking up the stairs with our instruments in one hand and our discreet cups of wine in the other. We put on shows in backyards, in back rooms. We always played for free, for fun, for whomever might show up. Afterward we’d run down the street and party at a nearby apartment, or in someone’s parents’ basement or garage.

It always seemed to be sunny, always warm. It felt like I was always smiling, always laughing, always a little buzzed.

We spent nights at the Tipsy Toad, dancing and singing along to the Justin McDonald band. We spent my birthday

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We Grow and is now Koros Games.

I walked into Club Art that day with an attitude that sat somewhere between apathy and cynicism. But almost immediately upon entering, my uncongenial city-slicker guard was brought crumbling down.

The big space was full of colour, art, music, laughter, and creative young people who seemed to be, as the graffiti on the wall boasted, “High on Art.” I floated through it, feeling as though I was held by the hand and guided around the room, each person warmly introducing themselves to me, humbly showing off their latest creative endeavour and expressing genuine gratitude that I was there.

There are many moments in my life that I consider essential steps in the journey that got me to where I am now, and that day was one of them.

There we were, looking each other up and down, finding out where we came from, and who we wanted to be. It was the first time I laid eyes on my partner, Andrew, the first time I got my photo taken by Jim Waddington, and the first time I put a face to the name Ricky Schaede.

Jay and I played our set, surrounded by supportive, smiling strangers.

After we played, we mingled for a bit, got a group photo taken by Jim, and then I left. There was a warm feeling radiating in my chest – like romance, or pride. That feeling stuck with me.

I couldn’t shake the sense of all those unfamiliar faces welcoming me into what seemed like a very loving family.

This wasn’t the Orangeville I was expecting. It wasn’t the town I

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lying under blankets, looking up at the stars. We sat by rivers, on rooftops, on the stoop of the old Aardvark Music building. We talked about how wonderful life was and all the great things the universe was bound to bring to us, if we just kept going, kept dreaming. Every lazy afternoon was so creatively productive, coming away from a casual hangout with a new music video, or song or drawing.

We played music because it felt good, we painted because we didn’t care, we made time for each other because we loved each other. We were stretching our creative legs and forming a net­ work of support that felt unbreakable.

And then things changed, as they always do.

I don’t know exactly when the big shift happened. It was likely gradual, as these things seem to be. Suddenly it felt like everyone was gone, or unavailable, or not on good terms. Burnt bridges, bad blood.

Our common spaces were dissolving.

The Club Art space shut down, and suddenly all the venues that were promoting original music were gone.

We stopped spending as much time together and more time on our own, trying to take our individual lives more seriously. Everyone seemed to have their own agenda, their own priorities.

We were all trying to make names for ourselves, make a buck, and somehow make it as creative people in a society that seemed less and less interested in supporting independent artists.

I became slightly bitter. I felt too young to have so many ex-friends. I didn’t understand why we had fallen apart. My band, which had been a centrepiece of my social circle for so long, started feeling like a graveyard of fallen friendships. I would offhandedly refer to Orangeville as a “dead zone.”

Because I felt alone, the town started feeling devoid of culture, of creative excitement. I felt like I had to get out, but I didn’t know where to go.

And then came 2020.

This year has been straight up awful in so many ways. I’ve never felt more anxious in my life. But something

special has been happening through all the anguish. Whether it was the extreme isolation, or the occupational pause, or the common fear for our lives, something brought us together again.

It started with another out-of-theblue message: “I’m two wine spritzers deep. I miss you all.” Which lead to an unwaveringly loyal commitment to weekly virtual parties while we were in Covid lockdown. We dressed up, we played games, we created music and videos and sent them to each other as gifts. We had birthday parties, sang songs. We spent all week looking forward to our virtual gatherings – that moment when we could let loose in the company of others.

The first time we got together in person after spending months alone in our respective homes, Andrew and I hung lights and lit candles in his backyard. I waited with excitement for each guest to arrive, a warm feeling glowing from within me. There it was, that same feeling of community I had felt so many years ago. Feeling in love, feeling understood, feeling alive. An adoring alliance that nurtured the individuality in each of us.

Perhaps the forced separation made us realize we really didn’t want to be separated at all. It alleviated the responsibility of maintaining friend­ ships while trying to grow creatively – an undertaking that can lead in all kinds of unknown directions.

And now my bitterness has evapor­ ated. I look back fondly and know I’ll always hold those years when I rediscovered Orangeville close to my heart. The years when so many seeds were planted in my creative journey and identity, when we all first found each other, and in turn found ourselves – a true spiritual awakening on the cusp between adolescence and adulthood.

As it was happening, I couldn’t believe my luck. I felt like I was home.

Sara May is a musician, singer, songwriter and videographer. She released her new Falcon Jane album, Faith, in November and still buys her tea at Euphoria.

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

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comfort foods Ghanaian goodness, pies at your door, and fresh Indian fare

BY JANICE QUIRT

It’s pie o’clock This year has taught us that delivery can be a godsend.

Our new obsession – pies!

Tania Rindel, a trained chef from South Africa, opened The

Abigail and Doris Dapaah

offers pick-up or delivery of fresh and frozen savoury pies. Bestsellers are pepper

While winter travel to warm climes is curtailed, a culinary adventure may be just the ticket. The African Caribbean Grocery Store in Shelburne wears its geography on its sleeve. The new shop, which opened in mid-July, is a joint venture by mother and daughter Doris and Abigail (Abby) Dapaah. Of Ghanaian origin, the two noticed after moving from Brampton to Shelburne in 2016 that despite the area’s increasing diversity, it was challenging to find African and Caribbean groceries. Their shop now welcomes customers from Owen Sound, Dundalk and Orangeville, among other places. Patrons are thrilled to skip the drive to Brampton and shop locally for staples such as plantain, red snapper, Jamaican pumpkin and green bananas.

“Everyone has been so friendly,” says Abby. “Whether they are coming in for a warm Jamaican patty or to pick up oxtail and seasonings for dinner, we have great chats.” Abby and Doris try to bring in special items customers request if they’re not in stock. But the shelves do boast an impressive array of delicacies.

Hits include hardo bread, a dense bread often eaten with cheese, from Jeanie’s Market and Bakery in Mississauga. Agege bread, an African favourite, is a soft butter bread that stays fresh for a long time. Abby recommends some starchy goodness in the form of Jamaican sweet potato – wonderful boiled, fried or made into pie. Ghost and Scotch bonnet peppers will Interested in add some serious heat to your at-home cooking. Fish and seafood, something including crab legs and fishcakes from Orangeville’s Jiggin’ Jody’s mentioned Seafood, also sell well. here? Find Interested in trying something new? Abby suggests picking up some callalo, a leafy green that can be used like spinach or kale. “Pop it into your soups or stews,” she says. “It’s a great time of year for something warm, and callalo is very high in nutrients.”

The Orangeville business

steak pie and cheese and caramelized onion pastries, perfect as an appetizer or light meal. Popular dessert picks S H U T T E R S T O C K 15 0 0 413 3 3 3

A tasty escape

PE TE PATERSON

Humble Pie this summer.

links to social media pages & websites at Food+Drink on inthehills.ca.

include key lime and pumpkin pies.

Bolton’s local foods HQ and delivery service, Caledon Roots, provides a variety of fruit pies, frozen for baking at home from Caledon’s Oh Goodness Me! Will it be jumbleberry or classic apple tonight? Makes a clever nocontact holiday gift idea too.

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Congratulations on your recent opening

SONNEN HILL BREWING 20727 Heart Lake Road · Caledon online orders and curbside pickup sonnenhill.com

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All kitted out DIY has never been more delectable. Take the Decorate a Doughnut Kit from Grand Valley’s Baked In The Valley. It comprises six vanilla doughnuts and three different glazes and sprinkles for personalizing.

“Gourmet doughnuts are all the rage,” says owner Lauren Barclay. “When decorating, be creative – use different glazes together to create a marble effect.”

(We won’t judge if you order some ready-made in case of a DIY disaster – PB and banana, anyone?)

Channel your inner Cake Boss with a cake kit from Quest for Cakes in Orangeville. It includes a preiced six-inch mini cake (chocolate or vanilla), with three colours of icing, sugar roses and a piping bag. If the kids co-operating on a single cake is too pie-in-the-sky for your clan, try the kit with a dozen cupcakes (six chocolate, six vanilla) or sugar cookies (flower, dinosaur, unicorn or butterfly shapes), which also come with the same sweet gear. And Paint Your Own cookies from Bolton’s Sweet Treats

by Natalie look almost too good to eat. Sugar cookies feature black outlines of seasonal motifs on a canvas of hard white icing with a “paint” palette of coloured icing along the bottom edge. Just dip the supplied brush in water and paint away.

For more eating, less decorating, visit the Bank Café in Creemore for dreamy takeaway bakeyour-own cinnamon buns. We also endorse frozen, ready-to-bake croissants from Gourmandissimo in Caledon East, which puff up tall and golden after an egg wash and 20 minutes in the oven.

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Indian feasts We’ve found two more ways to enjoy Indian food. Indian Spice Culture has taken up a spot on Airport Road in Caledon East and whips up takeaway dishes such as the vegetarian-friendly chana masala – hearty chickpeas warmed up in a blend of Indian spices.

And their karahi chicken stars chicken pieces cooked in onion, tomatoes, ginger and garlic. Butter Chicken & More, a selfdescribed “local mom biz” in Caledon, delivers mouth-watering butter chicken with basmati rice and garlic or plain naan.

A portable party The holidays just got tastier with the punchy flavours and nutrition of Jeremy Mantesso’s new delivery-only Creemore food biz, Damn Good Dips. Candied pecans are our pick for a satisfying snack or luxe stocking stuffer, while superfood dips like kale and edamame or olive tapenade make for a yummy, low-key appetizer spread – even if the party is by Zoom.

Proud to serve and support our community Garden Foods continues to serve the community with the same level of excellence and trust we have built over the past 38 years. Here you will find carefully selected fresh produce, breads and meats, specialty goods, and fully prepared quality meals cooked in-house – everything you’ll need to enjoy delicious meals at home.

Mondays to Fridays 8am–8pm Saturdays and Sundays 8am–6pm Online ordering with curbside pickup available for seniors and the immune-compromised – email orders@gardenfoodsmarket.com.

Dinner in a snow globe Nourish your senses – and your Instagram feed – with the culinary event of the season at Hockley Valley Resort. Enjoy a five-course meal with wine pairings in outdoor snow globes complete with twinkling lights, music, heater and candlelight on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from November 13 to March 28.

Hockley Valley Resort

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A locally owned and operated independent gourmet grocer for 38 years, we offer fresh daily prepared foods for your convenience and catering services for larger gatherings.

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mississauga

milton

COURTESY ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE ADAPTED FROM MAP BY AS THE CROW FLIES C ARTOGR APHY AUG 2020

caledon vaughan

br amp ton

toronto

halton hill s

THE OPPOSITION RELOADS

H IG HWAY 413 :

The Ford government has resurrected the controversial highway that will cut through south Caledon.

Is it a done deal?

BY PAUL WEBS TER road network g ta w e s t c or r id or p r ef er r ed rou t e e x is t ing/in del i v er y high way e x is t ing a r t er i a l a nd c ol l e c t or ro a d s

public transit network e x is t ing g o/up x l ine imp ro v ed g o l ine p rop o sed g o l ine e x is t ing sub way l ine e x is t ing/in - del i v er y l r t/br t l ine p rop o sed l r t/ br t l ine

land cover built up a r e a (2 0 1 6) a gr ic ult ur a l a r e a f or e s t w e t l a nd c onser vat ion a r e a gr eenbelt a ir p or t r e gion a l t r a nsp or tat ion c en t r e

W

hen Jenni Le Forestier, a community-minded music teacher who lives in Belfountain, first heard nearly a decade ago about the Ontario government’s plan to drive a 400-series highway through southern Caledon’s verdant farmlands and forests, she was dumbfounded.

“I was incredulous that anyone – let alone a set of municipal and provincial politicians who claim to care about the environment and climate change – would want to wreck a big swath of the very last undeveloped lands remaining in the Greater Toronto Area,” she recalls.

Determined to understand more, Le Forestier joined a government-sponsored community action group established to allow public input. But she was not reassured by what she learned, and she celebrated when Kathleen Wynne’s Liberal government took the advice of its expert advisory panel and kiboshed the project in early 2018. So in June 2019, when Premier Doug Ford announced his government was reviving the project, Le Forestier found herself girding for battle.

The proposed GTA West Transportation Corridor, known informally as Highway 413, originated as a component of the 2005 Places to Grow Act which set out population density and growth targets for municipalities while aiming to direct growth away from agricultural and environmentally sensitive lands. Places to Grow envisioned a potential transportation corridor connecting the evolving urban growth centres west of the GTA. The multimodal corridor will include traffic lanes and a transitway, with potential priority for goods movement. It will stretch 50 kilometres from Vaughan in the east, through Brampton and Caledon, into Halton in the west. Spaghetti junctions will connect to four other 400-series highways, two of them, the 410 and 427, in Caledon.

About 170 metres wide, the corridor will pave over some 2,000 hectares of land and cross the Humber and Credit watersheds, as well as the upper reaches of Etobicoke Creek.

In August this year, the Ministry of Transportation laid out the “technically preferred route” for the highway and commenced the second stage of the environmental assessment study begun in 2007. This past July, the government passed its omnibus Bill 197, the Covid-19 Economic Recovery Act, which gutted a plethora of environmental regulations, opening the door for “a streamlined environmental assessment process” for the highway, as well as reducing the ability of landowners to challenge expropriations for public roads and transit projects.

The multibillion dollar highway is expected to host more than 300,000 vehicle trips a day, says Natasha Tremblay, spokesperson for Ontario transport minister Caroline Mulroney. Its purpose is to reduce travel times for commuters and goods, Tremblay says, along with “providing greater connectivity between urban growth centres, providing better connections to residential and employment lands, providing an alternate route in the event of an incident or road closure on local roads, providing a designated transitway as a multimodal alternative, and providing greater economic vitality.”

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Although Caledon generates a small fraction of the commuter and industrial traffic the highway will serve, the town will host the longest stretch of the corridor. The highway will pave about 1,000 acres of the Greenbelt in Vaughan, but in Caledon it passes largely through the so-called Whitebelt, a stretch of land in south Caledon that was left unprotected – read open for development – when the Greenbelt was established in 2005.

Uncertain allies Caledon mayor Allan Thompson, whose family has farmed in south Caledon for three generations, has championed the highway from the get-go.

“As the major portion of the corridor is located in the Caledon, the town has been a key partner in this project” Thompson said in an email. Caledon council, he explained, is “supportive of seeing the GTA West constructed to help our economy, provide jobs to our residents and alleviate congestion on our local roads.”

Until recently, Caledon’s support for the highway has had allies in the Region of Peel and the three other municipalities along the route.

However, in August, citing irreparable environmental consequences, the council of Halton Hills declared it “adamantly opposes further investments by the Province in the GTA West Transportation Corridor.”

And Brampton’s position has become ambiguous. While continuing to support a corridor of some sort, this fall the city also approved a progressive urban development plan for a walkable community smack in the middle of the 413’s proposed route.

In December 2019, Caledon council endorsed a staff report on “the muchawaited resumption” of stage 2 of the environmental assessment process for the highway. It recommended the town ask the Ministry of Trans­portation to expedite its completion.

Authored by senior policy planner Kant Chawla, the report was not without caveats. It cautioned that the preferred route would have a “considerable impact on many Caledon farming operations,” dividing some of them into parcels that would cease to be viable as working farms.

Those farms are located on the Peel Plain, class 1 and 2 farmland considered some of the most fertile in Ontario and once populated by

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Stop the 413 signs are proliferating on Caledon roadsides.

prosperous farms. Although much of the land is still in production, some of it still owned by families who have farmed it for generations, many of the imposing Victorian farmhouses that once dotted the area have been torn down, boarded up or rented out by developers who lease the fields back to farmers. Even before the land was left out of the protection of the Greenbelt (about 70 per cent of the Peel Plain is in the Whitebelt), the land was the focus of development speculators.

For Johanna Downey, Caledon’s regional councillor for Ward 2, where the highway would be built, that history is a compelling reason for her support of the 413. Downey, whose family farms near the proposed highway, says the majority of her farmer constituents support it simply because they want an end to the uncertainty over whether the project will be built.

Although Caledon generates a small fraction of the commuter and industrial traffic the highway will serve, the town will host the longest stretch of the corridor.

“Farmers in my area that are affected by the project are missing a generation in succession planning because of the lack of investment certainty,” she explains. It’s a rationale repeated by Tom Dolson, president of the Peel Federation of Agriculture. He says many farmers – Dolson included – who own land along the corridor are asking, “When are we going to get paid?”

“Agricultural land is valued as low as $18,000 an acre, but residential land is easily worth $1 million an acre,” says Susan Lloyd Swail, a King City-based

“Overshadowed by the Covid-19 crisis, a project of dubious value is not receiving the attention it should by most Caledon residents,” O’Reilly says. “The GTA West highway will cut the town in two, facilitating sprawling warehouse and housing developments.

It will be Caledon’s version of the Berlin Wall, but unlike the Berlin Wall, it will never be torn down once built.”

That wall could prove especially daunting for the Mayfield West communities of Valleywood and Southfields.

Already skirted by the 410 to the west and south, they would be completely boxed in by the construction of the 413 to the north and a new 410 interchange to the east.

The consultation process land-use planning expert who opposes the highway. “There are hundreds of millions of dollars to be made right now simply by rezoning farmlands around the new freeway into development lands. And there are billions more to be made in the future from developing those lands into ever more residential and industrial sprawl.”

She adds, “The province is signalling to muni­cipal planners that rather than follow the existing plans calling for reduced urban sprawl, they need to upgrade the land zonings because the highway is coming.”

Putting up a wall The uncertainty posed by the onagain-off-again highway is also affecting Caledon’s own strategy for residential and employment lands in Mayfield West, one of the three areas, along with Bolton and Caledon East, designated for population growth.

The staff report cautioned that “municipal infrastructure required for the success of Mayfield West Com­ munity Development Plan is being delayed/precluded” by the ongoing environmental assessment review.

Dan O’Reilly, whose family has farmed in south Caledon since the 1840s, is concerned about farmland preservation. He’s currently working with the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy to legally protect his land in perpetuity from development, but he is also worried about the impact on the community as a whole.

The province has contracted the consultation process to Aecom, an international infrastructure consulting firm. Christine Green, an environmental planner who manages the firm’s community consultations, says its community action groups are open to everyone and sincerely aimed at gathering community opinions.

The company is running several other advisory groups, including one for Indigenous consultation, and it is currently accepting applications for public participation in the development of “community value plans.” To date, there have been two public information sessions (in 2015 and 2019) with a third currently planned for fall 2021.

Despite these reassurances, Jenni Le Forestier has harsh words for the consultation process. At a 2015 meet­ ing, she was cautioned that discussion about the merits of the highway ended in 2012 with the completion of stage 1 of the environmental assessment.

“It’s an absolutely phony consult­ ation process,” Le Forestier fumes.

“The discussions – infrequent and non-inclusive as they are – are all about mapping and engineering but never about whether this highway is just a huge mistake for the public and the environment. The public hasn’t been allowed to speak about that for at least eight years now – and counting.”

Her complaint is echoed by Renée Pelletier, a lawyer working for the Huron Wendat, whose archaeological sites and burial grounds are in the

highway’s proposed path. Pelletier says, “All we’ve seen so far are some presentations, but that’s not consultation.”

Signs of dissent Le Forestier has already posted a “Stop the 413” sign at her Belfountain home and more signs are popping up throughout the town.

The signs are just one component of a concerted opposition campaign

by Environmental Defence, a national organization that helped persuade the Liberal government to shelve the original project in 2018. Having already fought the battle once, Environmental Defence was well-positioned to reload for a second round.

“The GTA West highway will cut the town in two, facilitating sprawling warehouse and housing developments. It will be Caledon’s version of the Berlin Wall, but unlike the Berlin Wall, it will never be torn down once built.”

And Tim Gray, the organization’s executive director and veteran chief campaigner, says the group’s “capacity to ramp up this work is improving” as donors across the GTA began stepping up their efforts to help Environmental Defence prepare for another fight.

Among those financial supporters is the Jewison Family Foundation.

According to filmmaker Kevin Jewison, son of famed director Norman Jewison and overseer of the maple sugaring opera­tion on the family’s 160-acre Caledon farm, the foundation is supporting Environmental Defence “because it’s important to preserve as much of the Greenbelt as possible.” He predicts, “This new road will just be an­ other overpriced toll road like the 407.”

Summing up the organization’s objections to the 413, Gray says it “would be a redundant and unnec­ essary highway that would pave over

farms, forests, wetlands and a portion of the Greenbelt, and cost taxpayers billions,” resulting in more urban sprawl and regional congestion, and adding enormously to the atmospheric carbon burden from its construction using concrete through to vehicle pollution from its use.

“It will degrade the parts of the Credit River and Humber River water­ sheds that flow into Lake Ontario – a source of drinking water for millions of GTA residents,” he adds.

And then there’s the cost. Though the government has not pegged a figure, Lloyd Swail says the 2012 estimate of $4.7 billion could easily inflate to upwards of $10 billion.

And she predicts that’s money Ford’s increasingly Covid-debt-ridden government will almost certainly have to borrow. Which opens the possibility the government will recoup the cost by using the same playbook as the Conservatives pioneered 20 years ago when they sold the 407 toll highway to private investors.

A key rationale for the highway is to relieve traffic congestion, but an Environmental Defence report argues such relief is unlikely. “This is due to what’s known as induced demand.

Research has shown that construction of new highway capacity is met soon thereafter with an exactly proportional increase in traffic,” as drivers adapt by driving more often, over longer distances at busier times.

The Caledon staff report cites concerns the highway would generate more, not less, traffic via connections with seven arterial roads in Caledon, including Chinguacousy and Bramalea roads which are under town jurisdiction and would need to be upgraded. And the report reiterated a request first made to the transportation ministry in 1999 to direct throughtraffic off Caledon’s north-south roads, particularly Regional Road 50 through downtown Bolton, by extending Highway 427 north to Highway 9.

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Quality & Service You Can Build On

So what’s the alternative?

At stopthe413.ca, its dedicated website, Environmental Defence details a variety of alternatives to the highway.

Among others, these include widening and adding a dedicated truck lane to the underused Highway 407 (just 13 kilometres to the south); making a significant investment in rapid and light rail transit, including a new GO line to Bolton; and creating intermodal rail/truck transport – which essentially

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H I G H WAY 413 C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 71

Much has changed in the 14 years since the well-intentioned provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe first set the wheels in motion for orderly population growth.

Climate change has since soared to the top of the global agenda, vast car-dependent suburbs have become anathema, the axiom that growth equals prosperity is increasingly challenged, and the tsunami of digital technology in recent years includes

environment enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Caledon’s website says it aims to “reduce greenhouse gas emissions, incorporate climate change policies in key areas throughout the town’s official plan and support the development of healthy, resilient, carbon-neutral and sustainable communities.”

The apparent contradiction between the town’s environmental commitments and the proposed

BR AMPTON PL ANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMIT TEE

Helping You Make Informed Decisions

moves goods by rail across the GTA in containers that can be off-loaded at strategically located terminals, so trucks are used for only the “first and last mile” of the journey.

David Crombie, who chaired the review of the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe in 2015, describes the 413 as directly counter to almost all the hard-won regional planning and environmental

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An artist’s rendering of an urban boulevard from a Brampton report on the new town centre it is proposing in the path of Highway 413.

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protections designed to limit further urban sprawl in the GTA. The former Toronto mayor now chairs the Greenbelt Council, a gov­ ernment-appointed advisory panel that firmly opposes the new highway.

“This project is much more than just a lowly road,” Crombie said in an interview. “The way you create more sprawl is to create physical infrastruc­ ture like roads and pipelines, and then you plan afterwards based on that.

“That’s what’s missing from the public debate around this project.

It’s not about a road. It’s about landuse planning for the whole of the northern GTA. And everyone knows that transportation routes should be planned after the land-use planning is done, and never before.”

And that is its opponents’ biggest knock against the proposed highway – that it represents a throwback to a planning mindset that is well past its best-before date.

traffic management systems that can, among other things, direct drivers to alternative routes.

And there is the pandemic. It has accelerated online work and taken millions of commuter cars off the highways. Whether it will have a permanent effect on the way work is conducted remains to be seen, but several major corporations have announced they are shuttering their offices for good, creating a compelling argument that a concerted investment in high speed rural internet would do more to alleviate traffic congestion (and its carbon footprint) than building more highways.

For the most part, Caledon has kept pace with the changing priorities.

Once touted as the greenest town in Ontario by TVO, last year it joined more than 170 other communities in Canada as a member of David Suzuki’s Blue Dot Movement which is lobbying to have the right to a healthy

highway was not lost on Bolton-area councillors Annette Groves and Tony Rosa – the only two to vote against moving ahead with the 413.

“I was shocked that the majority of council supported it despite the substantial grassroots opposition in Caledon,” Groves says. “I’ve opposed it since the beginning. It’s a very expensive piece of infrastructure.

I don’t support it cutting through Bolton, through farmlands and environmentally sensitive areas. And most of my constituents are with me on this.”

Groves is courteous but candid about her fellow councillors’ support.

“They’re often vocal on developments that divide farmland, but not this time.”

In fact, just weeks after reiterating its support for the 413, council declared a climate emergency in Caledon, recognizing climate change as an immediate threat to local residents, the environment and the economy.

“If no new actions are taken to reduce Caledon’s GHG emissions, they are likely to rise by 133 per cent by 2050,” Alexandra Service, the town’s staff climate change specialist, told council in June.“The growth of emissions is driven by an increase in population and employment, and the travel associated with each, as well as the planned GTA West corridor highway through the south of Caledon.”

Brampton breaks ranks That disconnect between the highway proposal and climate change has also been playing out in Brampton whose mayor, Patrick Brown, was instrumental in the Conservative push to resurrect the highway during his brief tenure as leader of the opposition at Queen’s Park. With his support, Brampton council has now approved a new town centre called Heritage Heights. It is described as a walkable community that includes arts and cultural uses, conserves natural and cultural heritage, and features peoplecentric spaces that promote physical, mental and social health. Located south of Mayfield Road between Winston Churchill Boulevard and Mississauga Road, the proposed development lies directly in the path of the 413.

“That’s what’s missing from the public debate around this project.

It’s not about a road.

It’s about land-use planning for the whole of the northern GTA.” Perhaps the most progressive ele­ ment of Brampton’s plan is its “urban boulevard.” Based on similar models in Europe, it is a central corridor of use-specific lanes designated for cycling, transit, and local, flowthrough and truck traffic, separated by landscaped boulevards.

The transportation ministry has dismissed the Brampton proposal as incompatible with the proposed highway. But Brampton is sticking to its guns. In a bid to garner wider support,

it is taking the proposal on the road – and Caledon seems to be listening.

In October Brampton presented its plan to Peel regional council where an impassioned Patrick Brown asserted, “This is the way of the future. It’s a test of the type of communities we want.”

Caledon’s mayor and four regional councillors were in attendance.

One of them was Ian Sinclair.

Often considered a champion of the environment, particularly on aggregate extraction, Sinclair has been a reluctant supporter of the 413.

“I agree the last thing we need is to pave over more green lands,” he said in an interview earlier this fall, “but we have a major problem with truck traffic congestion on the existing highways. We need another highway.”

However, following the Peel council meeting, Sinclair said he was impres­ sed by Brampton’s “ambitious and imaginative” urban planning initia­ tive that is “contrary to a 400-series highway.” He added, “The 413 is a complex issue. The key function of the highway, in my view, is the movement of freight trucks through the GTA, which has become the majority distribution district for Canada. After that positive freight function, the merits of the 413 fall away rapidly.”

Johanna Downey agreed the Brampton plan “warrants a close look,” and the mayor and other regional councillors favoured inviting Brampton to present its plan to Caledon council as a whole.

In the meantime, Stop the 413 signs continue to proliferate on Caledon roadsides – and, in an echo of the broad-based support beyond these hills that shut down the Melancthon megaquarry eight years ago, the signs are also sprouting in downtown Toronto neighbourhoods.

In the offices of Environmental Defence, Tim Gray says, “We are now in the final stages of hiring a program manager with a background in planning and planning law to be able to support our legal and process work to fight the scheme.”

But he doesn’t think Ford’s highway will need to be defeated in court. He’s confident it will be defeated in the court of public opinion long before that.

Paul Webster writes about environmental issues from homes in Toronto and the Kawarthas.

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PE TE PATERSON

Al Waltho may have replaced two hips and a knee, but he’s not quite ready to hang up his skates

BY ANTHONY JENKINS

The Good Old Hockey Guy

I

n the chill twilight of an empty arena last February, Al skates in slow circles, round and round, warming up before a game he won’t be playing.

Al is Alan Waltho. He’s 75. One knee and both his hips are new. Al may be finished with hockey, or the game may be finished with him, but very early on a frigid Sunday morning, he has driven down to Orangeville from Dundalk to skate alone before the regular game. Round and round, circling a hope of return.

It’s an hour before game time, half an hour before Al’s teammates, his friends of decades, will straggle in, carrying well-worn bags of hockey equipment and drive-through-window coffees. They’ll wave and smile, genuinely happy to see him. Al will smile back, raise his stick in salute and continue slowly circling, content.

Born in England, Al was raised in Montreal, where he played hockey on bitterly cold outdoor rinks, always wearing the bleu-blanc-et-rouge of his beloved Canadiens. He married Brenda, his high school sweetheart, and moved to Orangeville.

A career selling telecom equipment took him all 74

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over Southwestern Ontario and Manitoba. He and Brenda raised six kids: Derek, Jeff, Jason, Brian, Karen and Heather. The girls figure skated, the boys played hockey. Everyone got skating stuff for Christmas. Life intruded. Al didn’t play the game for years.

But Al was at the rinks, in the stands, behind the benches and on the ice with his boys for practices.

There, he met other dads who played “old-timer” games, and in his mid-30s, Al resumed playing. And he continued for four decades, playing forward with the Rusty Blades.

“I could play pretty good, I guess,” Al recalls with a little pride. “They say I was a pretty good stickhandler. The skills stay, but I’ve slowed down.

The last few years haven’t been too good, because of my hips and knee. It is learning to skate all over again. You don’t quite move the same. You try to do the same things, but you can’t. You lose confidence.

You have doubts. I think it’s fear. You feel ... fragile.”

The soundtrack of recreational pickup hockey is more than the scrape of a skate blade biting into ice, the clack of a pass “on the tape,” the boom of a puck off the boards. It is also the good-natured shouts of

derision from the benches, the ribbing in the dressing rooms, the banter at breakfast after the game.

There is an expression in hockey, “good in the room.” Al is good in the room. A greeter, a joker, a raconteur, a fixture.

On this day last February, “the room” is dressing room 10, Red Rink, Alder Street Arena. It’s an unesthetic cinder-block rectangle filled with exploded bags of hockey gear, hooks hung with street clothes and men in various stages of undress. Al, wearing baggy jeans and a Leafs’ cap, stands smiling, gap-toothed, in its doorway.

On the bench along the wall to his right sit Jeremy, Mark, Dave, Rick, Pete, one of the Darrells (the other is Daryl) and Rob (never Bobby) Orr. The order rarely varies. Dave sits in “Al’s spot.”

“Where’s your valet?” Al quips with a wink.

Someone seated along the other wall, red faced from the exertion of tying stiff, new waxed laces retorts, and talk in the room turns animatedly to the merits of waxed versus cotton laces, the Leafs, Mulmur snowmobile trails, and Al’s rehabilitation and return.

“How’s it going, Al? You comin’ back?” goes the

Beautifying Homes for 37 Years chorus. “It’s coming along,” says Al amiably. “I’m takin’ it easy. We’ll see how it goes.” Et cetera. Everyone cares, but they’ve heard it before.

There’s unspoken hope – and a hint of unexpressed sadness.

Players, divided into teams wearing light or dark jerseys, file out of the room. Al follows, joining his team­ mates on the players’ bench. Behind the bench, that is. He pats shoulders, keeps score, joins in yelling goodnatured insults: “Hey, Daryl, pick it up, will ya!” Al dishes it out. He can take it, too. Always with a smile.

Amaranth’s Les Loftus, now in his mid-70s, founded the Rusty Blades back when he and the others were young – about 40 years ago. Al, whose son Jason played soccer with Les’s boys, joined nearly a decade later, though neither he nor Les is sure of the exact year.

Les recalls a younger Al as “not the fastest skater, but someone who could fool you with his stickhandling.” But more important, as always being “very amiable, very social, always ready for a laugh.”

While lauding Al as a fine fellow both on and off the ice, when pressed, Les expresses uncertainty about whether his friend will make it back.

“I remember the last time he was out there, he was very slow. I think he’s lost a few steps. I think that’s probably what is keeping him from coming back.”

“A gentleman and a gentle man” is how Grand Valley resident and teammate Daryl Blakely, 56, sums up Al. “The game has gotten a little quicker since he left. New guys. But they’re a good group. Everyone would welcome him back.”

The other Darrell – Darrell Arenburg, 59 – of Orangeville agrees. “I knew Al. I played with Al. He loved the game of hockey. It was never about ‘me,’ it was about everybody else.”

Darrell is surprised when it’s pointed out that he’s speaking of his linemate in the past tense.

“I admire the guy,” he says sincerely, switching to the present. “I see him out there skating, testing his body, getting reassurance if he can. If he gets healthy, there is nothing preventing him from coming back. Al still has a place on the team. He’s been here a lot longer than many of us. He has that right. I’d like to see him come back.”

The end of a lifelong pastime and joy comes to us all, be it suddenly or gradually, and whether it is decided by us – or for us. We can delay it, kid ourselves, maybe kid others, but it will come. Meanwhile, there is denial, hope, stubbornness.

And love. Widowed, Al remarried six years ago and moved to Dundalk with Bonnie, his second wife. Bonnie couldn’t be more supportive, optimistic, or charmingly southern. A Canadian, she spent 43 years living in the Carolinas and retained the warmth. “That would be the most wonderful thing if he could play until he’s 80,” she says. “I’d be tickled to death! Al’s awesome!”

Les admits to being in denial about the approaching end of his own playing days. “You let your mind tell you, ‘I’m too old for this.’ But as long as you’re enjoying anything, you’re not too old for it. There are some really good skaters out there, younger guys.

I see them coming at me and I know I don’t have a hope of stopping them.

But I enjoy the trying.”

It’s the same for all of them – dread­ ing the day age, injury or pride will force them to stop. A day that may no longer be so distant.

“The end is not in my mind yet,” Daryl B says firmly. “My mind will tell me to go on. My body will tell me to stop. I’ll push. I’ll push right till the end. I’ll try until I can’t tie my skates.”

Like Al, the other Darrell – Darrell A – has undergone two hip replacements.

“I’ve played nervous since then. I love the game of hockey, but I know there will be a day when I’m done. Al probably knows the same. Meanwhile, we’re aging gracefully. Together.”

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Al played his last hockey game more than a year ago. No one is playing this winter. Not yet, and probably not at all. Pandemic restrictions have closed local arenas to games.

But Al abides. This gentleman, now 76 and an old but not-yet-former hockey player, continues to skate during the pandemic, calling ahead and booking ice time at the arena “to keep in touch with the ice.” With each outing, his confidence grows, and he looks forward to sharing the room and the ice, as well as the breakfasts, the kibitzing and the camaraderie, with his teammates. And if not with the Rusty Blades, he says, then he will sign up for old-timers’ shinny.

“Some of the guys think I will come back,” he says. “Maybe they’re just being polite. Some have assumed I won’t. But my hockey bag is packed and ready to go. I’ll be out there one of these days. I’m ready now.”

Anthony Jenkins is a writer and artist who lives in Mono and plays – if poorly – on two original knees with the Rusty Blades.

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S P O R T ROSEMARY HASNER

G O O D

snowboarding in these hills Snowboard instructor Fred Welsh offers guidance to young novice Jayden Mattia.

During the time of Covid, the situation at Headwaters ski and snowboarding resorts may be fluid. Check websites for updated information and coronavirus protocols.

Hockley Valley Resort offers snowboarding, snowboarding lessons and equipment rentals for the public: hockley.com At Mansfield and Caledon ski clubs, snowboarding, snowboarding lessons and equipment rentals are available only to members and their guests: mansfieldskiclub.com caledonskiclub.com

Cruising without bruising Snowboard lesson number one.

BY NICOL A ROSS

“I

t’s over. Done. I made it. No broken wrist or bruised tailbone. Done. Yahoo! I did it.”

I didn’t say these words out loud when Fred Welsh, my snow­ boarding instructor, announced that my lesson was over. But I did throw up my hands in a celebratory wave. What I actually said was, “Great lesson.

Thanks.” Fred replied that I could stay

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out on the hill to practise. An avid boarder, he probably couldn’t fathom my reasons for electing instead to salute my lack of injury with a coffee in the lodge at Hockley Valley Resort.

I had often thought about trying my hand – or foot – at snowboarding. I’ve skied most of my life and envied the smooth elegance of boarders. Their long sweeping turns remind me of a

rhythmic waltz, like that performed

by Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr in The King and I: 1, 2, 3 … 1, 2, 3 … 1, 2, 3. Skiers, on the other hand, make it down the slope in the common 4/4 metre of pop music. Think Bruce Springsteen belting out “Born to Run.” I was also intrigued when Belfountain resident Renée Holden told me she stayed much warmer

snowboarding than skiing because boarding is far more physical. Looking for a challenge, Renée switched to boarding from skiing about 15 years ago. And though she has recently returned to skis, she said, “I love the acceleration you get when turning a snowboard.”

Despite Renée’s enthusiasm, I was nervous. Thoughts of a broken wrist or

a bruised tailbone – or both – crowded my imagination. I couldn’t shake the fear of heading downhill with both feet attached to the same board. How could I keep my balance if I couldn’t put out a foot to catch myself?

Yet last winter, on a bright sunny day at noon, I found myself walking alongside Fred. Carrying a Burton board and fitted out in special board­ ing boots and a helmet, I promised myself I’d play it cool. I wouldn’t let on I was anxious. But I couldn’t stop myself. I blurted, “I’m not going to break my wrists, am I?” Before Fred could reply, I added, “Having both my feet attached to this board terrifies me.”

Poor Fred.

Fortunately my 23-year-old teacher was already an old pro, a seven-year veteran instructor at the resort. He assured me, “I’ll keep you safe. Don’t worry.”

After a quick introduction to the board and some practice turning it around with my left foot attached and my right foot free, Fred encouraged me to glide down the tiniest of tiny slopes.

It felt like I was tackling Denali!

Next he showed me how to get the board to turn and come to a stop: “Keep your weight over the board.

Bend your knees and separate them.

Keep your head up. Look where you want to go. Don’t look at your feet.”

I was awestruck when I looked over my left shoulder as instructed and my board followed. Then, copying Fred, I brought my board to a full stop by putting weight on my heels, thereby forcing the back edge of the board to dig into the snow.

We then climbed partway up the hill, and he helped me slip down with my board perpendicular to the slope and one foot still free. That I could do.

“It’s time to take the magic carpet up the hill,” said Fred. Yikes, I thought, but he coached me up the conveyor belt, too. At the top he explained how I was to sit and harness my second foot to the board. My anxious-self screamed, “No, not two attached feet!”

Fortunately, this time my anxious-self shared the thought only with me. I did as instructed and followed Fred’s advice on how to manoeuvre myself to stand

from a sitting position. Harder than you think when both feet are fixed to a board. With perspiration building under my winter jacket, I was beginning to understand what Renée meant when she said snowboarding is physical.

When Fred encouraged me to repeat the side slip, but this time with both feet locked in, I looked downhill from what might as well have been the summit of Mount Everest. But you know what happened, of course. Fred guided me down the hill, explaining, “Toe down and you accelerate like in a car. Heel down and you decelerate.”

And heck, it worked – like a charm.

Thinking about accelerating and decelerating, remembering to look where I was going and keeping my knees bent and wide apart, I forgot my fear. At the bottom, I looked down.

Whose feet are these? They can’t be mine; they’re attached to the board!

“Let’s do that again,” said Fred, brimming with enthusiasm.

This time I pushed off down the hill with more conviction. When Fred let go of my hands (did I mention he held my hands the first time down as he boarded along in front of me?), I found my centre of gravity. I didn’t exactly knock it out of the park, but I did get down that mountain … I mean “hill” … on my own. More important, I did it without breaking a wrist or bruising my tailbone. And my success triggered a euphoric sense of accomplishment, an experience that becomes all too uncommon as we leave childhood. We tend to stick to the things we know.

Play the sports we’re good at. Avoid risks – and anything that could lead us to make a fool of ourselves.

That’s one of the things I love about sport. It can push you to run an extra kilometre or hit through for a backhand winner or try not only a sport that is new to you, but also one that terrifies you.

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The latest book in Nicola Ross’s Loops & Lattes series of hiking guides focuses on trails in the Collingwood, the Blue Mountains and Beaver Valley region (see p. 38). Nicola lives in Belfountain.

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“Ching-Ching-Peek-a-Boo!”

BY BETHANY LEE

S

Get outta town!

weet freedom was just a car key away when I was turning 16. The metallic jingle made as the keys and their mysterious chains and baubles dropped into the dish at the back door called out to me.

In those days, new drivers could get their “365” on the day of their birthday.

Writing the test successfully gave you 365 days to get your full licence, no restrictions. It was a rite of passage – the lineup and small desk, the 45 minutes of sweaty check marks on the one test that you truly cared about passing. The official collected your test, and returned what felt like hours later with an expressionless face to present a document stamped “Pass.” Walking out, “Can I drive?” was a common refrain.

Winter blahs and feeling “shack-wacky”? Get out of town with Google Street View and Google Earth. You can visit many world-famous places – the Grand Canyon, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, inside CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), or even just a virtual trip down the QEW to Niagara Falls. Lots of fun can be had connecting with towns and cities around the world, monuments and landmarks, and even our own rural roads.

Both exploration sites allow for crowd-sourced contributions – a great opportunity for your homeschooled kids embarking on geography or photography projects. www.google.com/streetview www.google.com/earth

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ILLUS TR ATION BY SHEL AGH ARMS TRONG

We were a driving family. My parents encour­aged me to get my licence as soon as possible. They had been driving me in and out of town from our farm in East Garafraxa for years, and were more than ready for a break from the parental taxi service. My dad commuted and loved cars.

He had a mechanic’s licence and worked for the Ministry of Transportation, specializing in safety and compliance with the Highway Traffic Act. In his eyes I had no excuse for not being a perfect driver. Cars came and went from our driveway and shed all the time. Add my brother’s cars and motorcycles, and it’s no wonder my mom regularly rolled her eyes and declared, “This place looks like a used car lot!”

As soon as I had my 365, I booked my road test. It was a mere three weeks later. That’s how it was back in those days before graduated licences. I got practising with my parents and friends. I even drove the farm truck around the fields – anything I could do to get some kilometres 2 0 2 0

under my belt. The test date came before I knew it, and I passed! I was admonished, but forgiven, for one mistake: allowing my bumper to cross a sidewalk by a foot. I’ve never made that error again.

And then I was free. Sixteen and a small folded licence in my wallet, waiting for the permanent one to arrive by mail. Did I know how to drive though? Not really. To lower my insurance rates, I enrolled in driving school. It started in the fall with the one and only Marie of Marie’s Driver Training.

Oh, Marie! What a character! She was funny and exuberant, and strict and eccentric, all at the same time.

Eternally tanned, with dyed blonde hair and gold clinky necklaces and rings, she was perfectly suited to Florida beaches with a frilly drink in hand. Into her car we hopped, three or four of us at a time. She rode the brakes from the passenger side and watched in her own rear-view

New driver supports

mirror. Around and around town we went, Marie’s sing-song sayings and accent chiming in our ears.

“I Smell a Stink!” she’d announce to any kid who got in smelling like cigarette smoke or teenage pong.

Then she’d emphatically douse the air with her perfume.

“Ching-Ching-Peek-a-Boo!” was her instruction to put on your indi­ cator lights and check your rear-view, followed by “Mirror-Signal-ShoulderCheck!” before changing lanes.

“Hand Position – 10 and 2!”

“25 Cents for Dry Steering!” with a rattle of her coin purse for you to donate to future repairs.

Marie set us all off on the right road – defensive drivers before the term was coined. “Where would you go,” she would ask us, “if that truck crossed the line?” or “Watch for falling things!”

We thought the last was hilarious, until we became adults driving the 401 and consciously looking up for kids’ hijinks on the bridges.

The final driving trip with Marie was to Guelph – long stretches of road to get your speed up, a bit of highway driving, reading unfamiliar signs and navigation. We all looked forward to it, teenage nerves rattling and everyone yelling, “Ching-Ching-Peeka-Boo!” The reward was a surprise stop for ice cream when we reached our destination – Marie’s treat.

I can guarantee that many years later, Marie’s chimes still ring in the ears of hundreds of drivers cruising these hills. My love of cars and driving grew with every after-school lesson as I waited out front of the high school for her champagne-coloured car to pull up. She introduced us to the wild world of adulthood, not just driving. Signs, symbols and sayings, smells and sights. Danger. An open road and the joy of a road trip.

I saw Marie one time in the grocery store. She looked exactly the same – tanned, a little older, a radiant smile outlined with bright pink matte lipstick, and her unmistakeable Euro-accent as she thanked the cashier. “Marie!” I wanted to yell, “10 and 2! I’m teaching my son now!

Ching-Ching-Peek-a-Boo!”

Bethany Lee is a freelance writer who lives in Mono.

“When you arrive at a four-way stop at the same time, the vehicle approaching from the right has the right of way?” True or false?

Get your young drivers ready for their written driver’s test with the online version of the full Driver’s Handbook and sample test questions for the G1. Information for the Level 2 in-person driving test is housed there, as well as driving schools approved by the Ministry of Transportation. www.ontario.ca/document/ official-mto-drivers-handbook —

We Are Hockey​ Starting early 2021, a travelling exhibition highlighting the many contributions of people of colour to our very Canadian sport of ice hockey will be coming to Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA), in partnership with the South Asian Studies Institute.

Watch for this digital experience for your hockey-mad family – but don’t expect just the regular historical figures we know and love.

The exhibit also takes an in-depth look at many people who have contributed to the sport but are often erased from mainstream recognition, raising awareness of diversity, inclusion and exclusion in Canada’s national sport. www.pama.peelregion.ca

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Download the Covid app for your kids If you haven’t already done it, consider downloading the Covid Alert mobile app – on your own as well as your kids’ devices – to protect yourself and your community. The app uses Bluetooth technology and does not share personal information.

When enabled, users will get a phone alert if they may have been exposed to Covid-19, and info on what to do next. It’s free, voluntary and works best the more people download it – at the time of writing, over 4.5 million Canadians had. covid-19.ontario.ca/covidalert

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Friendship is the secret to longevity

BY GAIL GRANT

I S T O C K P H O T O 120127128 8

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ould you believe that the secret to longevity may well be linked to the quality of your social life?

Researchers in the United States and else­ where have recently shown that social isolation and loneliness may affect our chances of living a long life even more profoundly than such usual negative predictors as smoking, obesity and lack of exercise.

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University in the United States, and her research partners listed the factors that enhance longevity. Most are no surprise: breathing clean air, controlling hyper­tension and weight, exercising adequately, managing cardiovascular disease, getting the flu vaccine, moderating alcohol use, avoiding smoking … things we all relate to a healthy lifestyle and living longer.

But Holt-Lunstad found the two most im­ portant longevity influencers are (drum roll, please) social integra­tion and social relation­ ships that include a high degree of social support.

Her conclusions were based on a metaanalysis of data from 148 studies that examined every aspect of the lifestyles, including the social relationships, of 308,849 people across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

When the studies began, participants were

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Alex Rodrigues

“I

worry about what the Covid-19 forced isolation is doing to the mental health of our seniors, particularly those living alone,” says Alex Rodrigues, president of the Caledon Seniors’ Council for the past 14 years.

At 80, Alex’s gracious empathy is a touchstone of his personality. Born in Burma (now Myanmar), he was 2½ years old when the Japanese invaded the British colony in 1942. His family fled to Goa, a Portuguese colony at the time, and then moved on to Bombay (now Mumbai), where he and his seven siblings attended private Catholic schools.

In his late teens, Alex emigrated to England, where he studied to become an electronics technician and married Doris, the love of his life. After the birth of their first child, the couple immigrated to Toronto, and three more children eventually followed.

Alex’s career path took him to Montreal with Marconi, back to Toronto with Litton Systems and then on to Spar Aerospace, which subsequently won the contract to build the Canadarm, Canada’s contribution to the space program.

For the next 34 years, he was involved with the space program, travelling regularly to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center to work on issues related to the hardware of the Canadarm and meeting

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an average age of 63.9 years, and included a roughly equal number of men and women who were followed for an average of 7.5 years.

Not surprisingly, negative social relation­ ships, such as a bad marriage, were linked to a greater risk of mortality.

Drawing on Holt-Lunstad’s research, psycho­ logist and writer Susan Pinker explains that “social integration” reflects both your strong and weak bonds, including how easily you interact with those you run into on a daily basis, such as your barista or the mail carrier. Pinker defines socially supportive relationships as “close relationships,” which might include people you would feel at ease borrowing money from or who would help you through times of despair.

As we’re well aware, the Covid pandemic has taken a toll on both our connectivity and wellbeing, placing our social lives on semi-hold for the past eight months. Hopefully these times are an anomaly and won’t last much longer.

I have a friend in his late 80s who is always at the centre of social activity in our community.

Four years ago, a series of debilitating medical problems caused him to stop eating, and he landed in palliative care.

His family came from near and far. His golf buddies and poker friends took turns visiting, filling him in on what was happening in

the community. He distributed his personal treasures among his children.

But the outpouring of support caused him to reassess, and he concluded he wasn’t ready to walk into the sunset just yet. He began eating, eventually getting out of bed and carrying on, hosting parties, playing golf and poker, and remaining involved.

Which brings to mind the world’s “blue zones,” a term coined by author Dan Buettner, a fellow with National Geographic magazine.

Blue zones are five identified regions where people live longer and healthier lives than elsewhere. The regions are Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California. These communities produce a high ratio of centenarians who not only enjoy substantially more years of good health, but also suffer a fraction of the diseases that commonly kill people in the developed world.

On the Greek island of Ikaria, for example, about one in three people makes it to age 90. Cancer rates are about 20 per cent lower than in the U.S., heart disease is about half the U.S. rate and dementia is unusual.

People inhabiting blue zones share common lifestyle characteristics that contribute to their longevity. High on their list of must-do’s are having a strong sense of purpose, constant and continuing interaction with family, and maintaining a close circle of

healthy friends who live in walkable, interconnected neighbourhoods.

My mind flashes to the proliferation of “estate lot” subdivisions so popular in our area: the large single-family home plunked in the middle of a five-acre lot surrounded by a field of mowed grass where crops once grew. Is this kind of development taking us in the right direction?

Studies also point to current evidence that the quantity and quality of social relationships is decreasing in industri­ alized societies. Trends reveal reduced intergenerational living, delayed marriage, dual-career families and increased single-residence households.

Though the lack of social relation­ ships constitutes a major risk factor for health, medical interventions often extend life at the expense of quality of life, even when evidence shows loneliness, social isolation and relationship distress are on the rise.

Those of us north of middle age are keenly aware we are the product of our choices. And we are learning that wise choices include valuing social connectedness and supportive networks.

In this increasingly isolated world, if we feel connected, we are more likely to thrive.

Gail Grant is a happily retired senior who lives in Palgrave.

In his long career in the space program, Alex Rodrigues travelled regularly to the Kennedy Space Center for work on the Canadarm.

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astronauts Chris Hadfield, John Young and many other superstars of the space program along the way.

After volunteering to coach his own children’s soccer teams, Alex went on to spend 13 years coaching competitive soccer teams for kids aged seven to 17. The teams were hugely successful, winning national and North American titles year after year. “Thinking about the positive impact the game of soccer had on those young lives always gives me a secret smile,” he says.

Honoured with a Caledon Community Services award in 2010 and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012, Alex was named Caledon’s Senior of the Year in 2017. He continues to write a newsletter that is emailed to more than 400 seniors every two months. He also plays bridge and euchre socially, and though the pandemic has currently curtailed his social activities, he and Doris try to enjoy time with their eight grandchildren whenever the opportunity arises.

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home game

A backyard rink is just one of the deft holiday moves NHL linesman Shandor Alphonso and his wife, Jacelyn, make for their young boys.

BY JANICE QUIRT

C

ome winter, the distinctive thwack of hockey stick meeting puck regularly reverberates around Zander and Nixon Alphonso’s back­ yard. This scene, of course, plays out across the country – but not all homemade rinks come with their own professional official in the form of Dad, aka Shandor Alphonso.

Shandor has been a linesman with the National Hockey League for the

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PHOTOGR APHY BY ERIN FITZGIBBON

past six years, and along with his wife, Jacelyn, has chosen to call Orangeville home. The two grew up on the same Orangeville street and believe their hometown is the perfect place to raise a family. They love the small-town feel but also appreciate the benefits of a nearby city – and its international airport, a must for Shandor’s work.

Before moving back to Orangeville in 2010, the pair lived in Thunder Bay, where they both attended Lakehead

University and Shandor played for the university’s hockey team. But when his dream of an NHL career didn’t pan out, he changed course and started work­ing his way up through the offi­ ciating ranks. In 2014, after attending an officiating camp in Toronto, he landed an NHL apprenticeship – and his path was set. “I’m grateful to be in the league after my dreams of playing there professionally didn’t quite become a reality,” he says.

What’s more, Shandor is the NHL’s sole active Black official – and one of only two Black officials in NHL history. So he believes his gig comes with the added responsibility of being a role model. “I feel I have a responsibility to inspire young Black athletes in hockey,” he adds.

This impulse clearly starts with his sons, Zander, 7, and Nixon, 5. The boys adore hockey and play in organized leagues as well as on that 20-by-40-

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facing Zander and Nixon Alphonso hit the ice in the backyard of their Orangeville home.

foot backyard rink. By comparison, an NHL rink measures 200 x 85 feet.

To create that beckoning slab of ice, the Alphonsos hired Orangeville’s Cedarcroft Landscape & Design to install a sports pad. Every winter the Alphonsos lay down a liner and set up rink boards made by the American company EZ Ice. They flood the rink once the temperature stays consistently below -2C. Thanks to the big spotlight C O N T I N U E D O N N E X T PA G E

above The holiday season starts in November for Shandor and Jacelyn Alphonso and their boys with outdoor decorations and a sparkling Christmas tree.

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installed by Mulmur’s Always Current Electric, the family can continue playing after dark. And lest anyone thinks the NHL helpfully lends out a Zamboni, keeping the ice clear definitely involves manual labour.

“I’m usually the one out there shovelling the snow off the surface,” says Jacelyn with a smile. A busy realtor, she co-ordinates the boys’ hockey practices and maintains the

rink when Shandor’s schedule takes him on the road. A typical NHL season sees him travelling all over the United States and Canada to officiate 74 games a year. That’s about three games a week.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the start of the 2020–21 NHL season has been delayed until at least January 1. And the end of the 2019–20 season was, of course, wildly out of the ordinary. The usual trade-

off for being away so much during hockey season is three months off in the summer, but this past summer Shandor officiated in the post-season for the first time and ended up being away for 32 days during the Coviddelayed playoffs. For those 32 days he lived in the NHL bubble in Toronto’s Royal York Hotel.

After being isolated for so long, coming home to the family’s craftsman-style house, purchased

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top left Zander, Shandor, Nixon and Jacelyn cuddle up at home.

in 2017, was a relief. The feeling of comfort and ease in the home is all down to Jacelyn, who was a real estate stager before becoming a realtor in 2019. She staged for realtor Monica Bond, who suggested Jacelyn get her licence so the two could become a team. “Monica has been in the business for 11 years, so it’s incredibly helpful to bounce ideas off each other,” says Jacelyn.

C O N T I N U E D O N N E X T PA G E

left The Alphonsos’ bright kitchen is the heart of this family’s lifestyle. top right Jacelyn’s most treasured piece is this vintage red sideboard. above Buffalo plaid accents warm up the holiday table.

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Jacelyn has always loved design and her light touch is obvious throughout the roughly 2,700-squarefoot home (built in 2002). Her most treasured piece is a clue to her design motivations. It’s a rustic red sideboard she found at an antique store in Everett, and it serves as a festive bar over the holiday season. “As soon as I saw it I had to have it,” she says.

“We had the exact same piece in

my family cottage on Caledon Lake growing up. I love mixing old pieces with some more modern pieces. I like the homey feeling it creates.”

Another favourite element is the massive kitchen island, where the family spends most of their time cooking, eating, entertaining (in non-pandemic times) and playing games. The sleek, contemporary kitchen remodel was completed in 2017 by Brampton-based Devans Quality Construction.

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top The cozy family room is dressed for the holidays in greenery and seasonal decor.

As avid entertainers (pre-pandemic), the Alphonsos were drawn to the home’s open floor plan, and Jacelyn pulled the space together with pro­ gressive shades of calming grey and cream that allow the reds of the festive season to shine. She selected Benjamin Moore’s medium-grey paint colour “Storm” for the main space, while the TV room and kitchen feature the same company’s “Metropolitan,” a lighter

left The calming principal bedroom features Shandor and Jacelyn’s wedding photo on a dresser. above A giant N hangs over Nixon’s bed. A retro airplane light fixture adds old-school charm.

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above Zander and Nixon practise their hockey moves inside too. right The family’s Christmas gifts are wrapped simply and tied with red string.

AT H O M E C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 87

grey. Toys live in the basement and the boys’ rooms. And all the hockey equipment? Into the basement storage room it goes. “Nixon has decided to be a goalie, so now we have even more hockey equipment. It’s starting to get tight,” laughs Jacelyn.

The family also transformed their garage into a gym they all use, though Shandor also does CrossFit at the Athlete Institute. Staying fit is a necessity of Shandor’s job; he’s on the ice for all 60 minutes of a hockey game, while keeping up with the fastest and best players in the league.

Asked what it’s like to be a “hockey wife,” Jacelyn says it’s the question she gets most often. “To be honest, I don’t know any other way,” she says.

“Shandor played hockey when we first started dating, right through university, and then transitioned into officiating when he was done playing.

This has just always been our way of life; it’s all our kids have ever known.

Sometimes they get upset when their dad has to leave for a road trip, but they understand it’s part of his job.”

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Those absences have always made the holidays even more precious.

Hockey-inspired touches include an Elf on the Shelf named Puck. Riley, their 14-year-old Yorkie, will sport a festive ribbon. And a tree went up just after Remembrance Day. “I just feel like Christmas goes by so fast and I want to prolong it,” Jacelyn says. “We make a gingerbread house every year, and we’ve always gone to see the lights at Kay Cee Gardens and the tree lighting ceremony at the town hall. There’s something just so magical about our town during the winter holidays. It really is like living in a Hallmark Christmas movie here.”

For Shandor, Jacelyn, Zander, Nixon and Riley, the holidays are when the family revels in their own happilyever-after story. You could say the puck stops here. Until it’s time to hit the backyard rink, that is.

Janice Quirt is a freelance writer who lives in Mono.

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FAMILY FRIENDLY LAYOUT Loads of potential! 4-level backsplit w/ covered patio. Hrdwd flrs in many rms. Bright lwr lvl fam rm has w/o to side yard, built-in cabinets & cozy gas fp w/ brick hearth & wall surround. Mstr bdrm w/ semi ensuite to main bath. $679,900

PERFECT PROXIMITY & PRIVACY 20-acre parcel of land in Mono. Paved road frontage and easy access to major highway.

Gated entrance to drive leads to open meadow. Bonus: bunkie in forest surrounded by trees. $599,900

CUSTOM STONE BUNGALOW 2 year old, 3+1-bedroom bungalow on 1/2-acre lot. Mature landscaping, 2 driveways and heated garage. Bright, airy, main floor features gas fireplace, solid birch floors; kitchen has large centre island, quartz countertops and spacious dining area. Master bedroom boasts a luxurious ensuite with soaker tub, double sinks and separate shower. Additional living space in basement with above-grade windows, wet bar, 4th bedroom and bath. $1,249,900

44-ACRE OPPORTUNITY 1 km south of Shelburne on County Road 11.

990 ft of frontage and sparkling spring-fed pond. Driveway in to the property at the north end. $595,000

TRACK, STABLES, 4 SEPARATE HOMES! 107 acres, sprawling main residence + 3 separate homes, heated workshop with loft, storage shed 30'x80', 2 barns with 44 stalls, 1/2-mile standardbred track, multiple paddocks, spring-fed pond and workable farmland. Eco-friendly geothermal heating. Multiple rental income options, farming and equestrian business. Loads of possibilities! $2,479,900

CUSTOM BUNGALOW 50 acs in north Mulmur w/ spectacular scenery.

Spacious principle rooms, inviting sunroom, great room w/ gas fp; a perfect setting for entertaining w/ a view. Outside: spring-fed ponds and 30’x40’ detached workshop. $2,490,000

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INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY Fantastic end unit industrial condo. Great access to major roads & public transit. Approx 1000 sf, w/ kitchenette, 3 offices, large waiting room w/ 2-pc bath, sep laundry rm, small office w/ 2-pc bath & great storage options. $285,900

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TURN-KEY BACKSPLIT 3-bedroom home in Orangeville has newly renovated kitchen with gas range and built-in dishwasher. Lower level family room with above grade windows. Walking distance to transit, shops and rec centre. $549,900

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STATELY HOME IN CARDINAL WOODS Set well back from the street, all-brick home offers lots of living space for large or extended families. Spacious principal rooms throughout filled with natural light. Rear kitchen adjacent to family room with fireplace and walkout to rear. Master bedroom features walk-in closet, built-in makeup counter, and 5-piece bath. Private lot lined with mature trees. $1,195,000

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COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY Approx 10,000 sq ft steel bldg on approx 3 acres siding onto County Rd 124 at Hwy 89 in Shelburne. High visibility, paved parking w/ great access for tractor trailers, deliveries, customers.

3 gas & hydro meters. Zoned M1. $2,149,000

ACCESSIBLE OFFICE SPACE Build your business! 4880 sq ft 2nd floor industrial condo. Accessed with 2 staircases, plus installed elevator. Large boardroom, approx 10 offices, large open workspaces, storage closets, kitchenette & 2 washrooms. $579,900

1856 BUILT STONE HOME! Gorgeous original farmhouse with huge board & batten addition set in pastoral 100-acre setting. Best of the original: wide trim, pine floors, deep window wells… the list goes on. $2,149,000

PRIVATE, COZY HOMESTEAD 2-bdrm bungalow tucked away on 6.7 acres.

Large front patio & det dbl-car grg. Features great o/c liv area w/ vaulted ceiling, wood-burning fp, kit & spacious dining area that walks out to patio. Mstr bdrm has clawfoot tub. $749,900

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BRIMSTONE – CREDIT RIVER Tranquility with spectacular views of the river, this one-of-a-kind property on a cul-de-sac has a charming 1.5-storey cedar-sided home with 3+1 bedrooms, 2 baths, pine floors, wood stove, skylights & vaulted ceiling. $1,088,900*

MULMUR COUNTRY LIVING Lovely renovated raised bungalow w/ stone exterior, newly landscaped front yard, 2 fireplaces, new windows, patio & front door, Thermador ovens & rear deck. Private backyard w/ vegetable grdn & chicken coop. $748,900*

CALEDON VILLAGE CUL-DE-SAC This 4-level side split has 3 bedrooms with hardwood, 2.5 baths and L-shaped living/dining rooms. Kitchen has walkout to deck & BBQ hookup. Bright family/games room with dry bar & fireplace. Great commuting locale. $948,900*

SOUTH CALEDON – 13.42 ACRES Great retreat or hobby farm with a portion of the land being tenant farmed, qualifying for lower taxes. Manicured gardens with towering hedges provide ultimate privacy on a lovely parcel of land with stream & bungalow. $1,548,900*

SOLD

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CALEDON 2.7 ACRES + SHOP Contemporary 3+1-bdrm, 2.5-bath bungalow with custom doors & trims, unique fireplace with steel shelves, polished concrete floors, new kitchen with high-end stainless appliances.

Maple bush & heated outbuilding. $1,288,800*

SOLD

CALEDON EAST POOL OASIS Upgrades galore in this custom bungaloft with a walk-up finished basement with rec/games room & kid’s playhouse. South-facing inground saltwater pool, spa, ornamental pond w/ waterfall, flagstone patio & pergola. $1,288,800*

SOLD

CALEDON EAST SPACIOUS GEM On quiet court, this 2954 sq ft home has a finished basement, 4+1 bdrms, 4.5 bathrooms, a main floor office, hardwood on first floor & staircase, crown mouldings, wainscoting and tiered deck to fenced yard. $1,248,900*

SOLD

CALEDON EAST HERITAGE Beautifully upgraded while keeping original character, 9 ft ceilings, pine plank floors, high baseboards, crown moulding & extensive landscaping with patios & firepit. Mature setting w/ access to the Caledon Trailway. $1,168,900*

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CALEDON EAST 2 ACRES + POND In upscale estate subdivision, this open concept 2720 sq ft bungalow with 3-car garage & extensive landscaping has custom kitchen, multiple fireplaces & walkout basement with 3 bedrooms, games & sunroom. $1,798,900*

SOLD

THORNBURY MODERN BUNGALOFT On 2.6 acres of lush countryside is this custom built, passive solar 3+1 bedroom, highefficiency open concept home. Heated concrete floors offer a contemporary flair while unique wooden accents provide character. $1,398,900*

SOLD

E GARAFRAXA BACKYARD OASIS Backing to conservation, this superb custom build on 1 acre has professionally landscaped interlocking walkways, stone walls, an inground pool with stone waterfall, pergola with bar, outdoor fireplace & TV. $1,488,900*

SOLD

MONO 95 ACRES, 2 HOMES, SHOP An opportunity for extended family living with 4400 sq ft main 3-bedroom home with finished basement, plus a 1600 sq ft guest house, and an amazing 7300 sq ft insulated/heated shop with finished loft. $3,498,900*

SOLD

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MONO – 10 ACRES + POND Fabulous location in a private setting with a shared pond, manicured perennial gardens and maintained trails. This 3 bedroom, board and batten, 2 storey has a metal roof, country kitchen with walkout to huge deck. $1,098,900*

CALEDON TAMARACK ESTATES On 3.57 acres with 4-car garage, inground pool & hot tub, this 4 bdrm has family with gas fireplace, maple hardwood, kitchen with heated travertine floors, quartz counters, 6 burner gas stove. Great for entertaining! $1,348,900*

ADJALA PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP! Meticulously kept 6-yr old, 3+1-bdrm, 3.5-bath bungalow w/ finished basement & 3-car heated garage. Hardwood floors, quality laminate in basement, wainscoting, crown mouldings.

Close to Hwy 50 for commuters. $1,248,900*

MONO MILLS FAMILY HOME This 4 bdrm, 2.5-bathroom home is 2164 sq ft, has a private & mature 171x228 ft deep lot with an ornamental fish pond, gazebo, two sheds & rear deck. Updated electrical, newer roof shingles & most windows replaced. $948,900*

*Listed Price

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CALEDON COUNTRY LIVING Completely renovated home on 32 acres of rolling land in picturesque Caledon. Custom kitchen w/ quartzite stone counters, apron sink, luxury Bertazoni appliances & breakfast bar. Great room w/ cathedral ceiling, hrdwd floors & floor-to-ceiling reclaimed brick fp. Bright sunroom w/ south exposure. Lrg mstr bdrm w/ incredible ensuite. Custom horse barn & oak board paddocks. $2,089,000

WELCOME TO PRINCE OF WALES IN MULMUR Incredible south exposure overlooking the Mulmur Hills w/ spectacular views. This exceptional 100-acre property high in the hills of Mulmur w/ rolling land, hayfields, hardwood bush & spring-water swimming pond is the perfect getaway with a 4-bdrm century home w/ cedar shakes & gingerbread, living room w/ large windows, great views, wood-burning fp, principal bdrm with ensuite. $2,249,000

HOCKLEY COUNTRY LIVING Bungalow on a private mature lot in the heart of Mono w/ 3 bdrms + office. South-facing kitchen w/ breakfast bar, large windows, ceramic flrs & granite countertops w/ comfortable seating area.

Large living rm w/ wood-burning fp & hrdwd flrs. Gorgeous 3-season sunroom w/ gas fp overlooking the property. 2-car att’d grg. Insulated outbuilding that is heated w/ a pellet stove. $1,489,000

PARK SETTING IN MONO Custom built home with 3+2 bdrms on a mature lot in a quiet neighbourhood backing onto Island Lake Conservation. Front foyer welcomes you w/ soaring ceilings & hrdwd floors to a bright & spacious kit w/ huge granite island & breakfast bar. Living rm offers a gas fp & lrg windows overlooking the priv backyard featuring a pool & sauna. Fin lower level w/ walkout to pool. $1,489,000

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SARAH ASTON Sales Representative

SUTTON

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HEADWATERS REALTY INC

Town and Country Properties

sarahaston.ca

519.217.4884

4TH LINE, MULMUR Views and privacy – you can have it all! Lovely modern 4-bdrm farmhouse w/ incredible barn complex, 2nd 2-bdrm residence and 71.80 gently rolling productive acres. House boasts new spray foam insulation, metal roof, kit w/ quartz counters, furnace and CAC, 2018. New barn 60x100x18' clear height, w/ 5 stalls, tack, wash concrete foundation, 16' sliding door, 12' overhead door, on demand hot water. Large outdoor sand ring professionally built. $1,895,000

QUEEN STREET, ALTON Family legacy/investors? Who needs Muskoka when your principal home has it all in Alton, Caledon! Price includes 4 lots, one with newly constructed mansion backing onto the Credit River (Shaws Creek tributary) with your very own huge waterfall, swimming hole for the kids, & island. New, custom, 4-bdrm home w/ over 4700 sf of living area, including 750 sf of covered porches. No expense spared on quality finishes! $2,500,000 (price includes 3 additional lots)

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MOFFAT DUNLAP

REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BROKERAGE

905-841-7430 moffatdunlap.com Moffat Dunlap*, John Dunlap**, Murray Snider, Nik Bonellos, Elizabeth Campbell, Courtney Murgatroyd, Sean Wynn, Mark Campbell***, David Warren**** *Chairman, **Broker of Record, ***Sales Representative,****Broker

SHELDON MILL, MONO

A historic family compound with 3 residences, barns, ponds, hiking trails.

Price upon request.

100 ACRES, HOCKLEY POND FARM Stunning scenery. 3+ ac swimming pond, mature G trees, miles of trails. SolidShome KINbuilt by notable A R Ladd family circa E1912. Bank barn with stalls, OV paddocks, large outbuildings! Asking $2,100,000

HORSESHOE HILL LAKE, CALEDON 106 acres of property with private lake and old growth forest. Two separate residences with 3000+ ft of frontage. Enjoy year round outdoors.

Swimming, fishing and hiking. $4,590,000

BELFOUNTAIN HORSE PROPERTY 30-stall equestrian complex with 80x187 ft indoor arena, meticulously maintained paddocks and outdoor riding ring. 25 acres. $2,499,000

300 ACRES, BLITHE HILL, MONO Landmark property! Extensive river frontage.

2 deep ponds, trails, pool. Classic stone residence, gatehouse, 3-storey barn w/ workshop. Your own arboretum & lilac collection.

REDESIGNED HOME, CALEDON Newly designed interiors. Exceptional country estate. Main residence with 10 bdrms, indoor pool, underground parking. Multiple guest houses. Trout pond. 160 acres. $14,995,000

HIGHPOINT RETREAT, CALEDON Rare 100-acre property. Update current 80’s ranch bungalow or create a new residence.

Rolling hills, pond, pastures, hardwood forest. $4,125,000

THE SCOTCH ESTATE, HALTON Three residences. 185 acres of farmland.

Three possible severances. Several dwellings and farm buildings. Private access to the Scotch Block reservoir. $14,995,000

ERIN HILLS, EXCLUSIVE Prime location on 8th Line. Stroll to CataractElora trails or into Erin. Lovely rolling acreage, pond, woods and superb views. 4-bedroom Century home. 99 acres. Inquire for pricing.

BRAECROFT, HALTON Family residence surrounded by gardens, within 150 acres of inspiring vistas along the shores of the Scotch Block reservoir. Ponds, farmland, barn, outbuildings. $5,500,000

WOOD CROWN FARM, MONO 4-bedroom restored Victorian house, pool, organic gardens and separate log cabin. $1,800,000

BEECH GROVE HALL, CALEDON Custom-built bungalow + 4-bay garage with loft apartment. Privately sited country home on 46 acres. High-efficiency and high-calibre build. Exclusive

100-ACRE HORSE FARM, HOCKLEY An impressive country home with full guest wing plus 2nd house with private drive. Detached office building. Well-designed horse facilities.

5 minutes to Orangeville. $4,199,000

CREDITVIEW ROAD, CALEDON Fully renovated home perfectly sited on 10 acres in The Grange Equestrian Community.

Walk to the Bruce Trail, ski, ride, cycle.

Turnkey property. $1,999,999

65 GLENVIEW HEIGHTS, KING Custom home with valley views. 10 private acres. 3 finished levels. 2 kitchens. Guest bunkie. Spa by Betz. Paris kitchen. Wow! $3,499,000

SILVER CREEK FARM, GEORGETOWN Granite built, 5-bedroom farmhouse on 133 acres of Halton Hills. Hardwood bush, 50+ acres of arable land. Maple syrup operation. $3,590,000

BROOK FARM, EAST GARAFRAXA A lovingly restored Victorian farmhouse built in 1902. 97 acres. Fully restored bank barn.

Asking $1,390,000

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Sigrid Doherty win20_layout 20-11-06 1:38 PM Page 1

Basia Regan win20_layout 20-11-05 6:30 PM Page 1

705-466-2115

basiaregan@royallepage.ca www.basiaregan.com

sigriddoherty.com sigrid@sigriddoherty.com

Broker direct 416-274-1592 office 905-584-2727

Sales Representative

MULMUR RIDGE Century brick farmhouse perched on bluff with panoramic views of Pine River Valley. Spacious interior with complimentary upgrades to former Ruskview General Store and Post Office.

Floor-to-ceiling glass doors on south side open onto 40 ft covered verandah and sundeck extension overlooking swimming pond and 6 lush acres. Original wide plank floors.

Known as "the" photo op location in Mulmur. $1,299,000

CALEDON EAST Rare opportunity to own this outstanding custom-built home, original owners. Beautiful mature 1/3-acre lot awaiting your pool. Well maintained over the years – new front door, many newer IN Bonus room – loft above the windows, new siding and most bathrooms have been updated.

ING SKand garage is nicely done with bedroom/sitting A room 3-piece bathroom. Could be a guest or R DAYS! VEpark nanny suite, you decide! Driveway Ocan 4 8-10 cars. Quiet family friendly neighborhood is close to all amenities and great schools. Enjoy the lifestyle Caledon East has to offer; endless hiking trails, cycling, and quaint shops. It does not get any better! $1,125,000

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MODERN MULMUR FARMHOUSE Being built on 6 rolling acres surrounded by mature trees that afford privacy yet you have long views of hills and sunsets. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, office and open kitchen, dining and great room. Still time to choose your finishes. Near Creemore, ski and golf clubs. $1,699,000 Sue Collis win20_layout 20-11-06 1:35 PM Page 1

Welcome to Headwaters Country HeadwatersCountry.com info@headwaterscountry.com 519-941-5151 Victoria Phillips and Janna Imrie

Caledon, Erin, Mono & Surrounding Areas

Independently Owned & Operated

Sales Representatives

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www.chestnutparkcountry.com Country Office: 519.833.0888 Sue - Direct: 519.837.7764 Sarah - Direct: 905.872.5829

RCR Realty, Brokerage

Sue Collis

Sarah MacLean

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

sue@chestnutpark.com sarahmaclean@chestnutpark.com

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT 90-acre horse farm with the Eramosa River running through the whole property. 30 stalls, indoor arena, 3/8-mile track, multiple run-ins & paddocks & staff apt. Sprawling main house overlooking large pond. $2,900,000

GREAT YEARLY INCOME Lovely rolling 60 acs w/ a tenant in the two houses & a solar panel contract that together generates $70k per year. Gorgeous pond & streams meandering throughout. Hayfields, 12-stall barn, just n of Palgrave. $2,500,000

10 ANNE STREET, ERIN (HILLSBURGH) A magical home like this only comes on the market once in a while! This rare Century home in the Hamlet of Hillsburgh (part of the Town of Erin) has been lovingly updated and cared for, its original charm and character shining through. With 3 bedrooms & 2 baths, a sun-filled front porch, stylish comfortable living spaces and a professionally landscaped garden oasis with pergola and patio, this home seems to have it all on a mature street in this quiet community.

WANT TO BE A RESTAURANTEUR? A wonderful opportunity to purchase a successful & award-winning Italian restaurant in Old Georgetown. All chattels & fixtures included. Licenced under LLBO. 30 inside seats & 18 patio spaces. Business only. $135,000

BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED Lovely upgraded bungalow backing onto ravine in the Town of Acton. O/c main flr w/ 3 bdrms, liv rm, eat-in kit w/ w/o to deck. Fin bsmt. Dbl-car grg w/ access to house. Updated shingles. Just move in & enjoy. $769,900

A TASTE OF PROVENCE IN CALEDON French country charm, safely isolated for privacy yet ideal proximity to the city. 38+ acs of rolling hills on the prestigious Grange Sdrd w/ skiing, golf, hiking & shopping within mins.

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MONO RETREAT 25 private acres with 2 ponds. 3-bedroom, 3-bath bungalow. Large solid drive-through workshop with loft. Perfect for hobbyist or home business. Groomed trails through mature forest and open meadows.

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Paul Richardson win20_layout 20-11-05 7:20 PM Page 1

Paul Richardson SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Royal LePage Meadowtowne 17228 Mississauga Rd, Caledon

RICHARDSONTOWNANDCOUNTRY.CA

866-865-8262

paul@richardsontownandcountry.ca

UNDISCLOSED LOCATION, MONO – EXCLUSIVE Your dream home awaits, nestled in the hills of Mono! The beautiful iron gate welcomes you to the winding, tree-lined drive, leading you to the magnificent brick estate. This reno’d sidesplit overlooks a stunning 26-acre lot of mixed forest & grassy fields. Inside is just as spectacular with hardwood floors, marble counters & custom cabinetry throughout. Out back is an entertainers’ delight with a deck, gazebo & above-grnd pool. Contact for price and more details.

ONE OF A KIND This spectacularly renovated Century home in Georgetown's park district on a huge lot offers high quality living convenient to downtown shops. Top finishes, high ceilings, sunny views and a covered porch to watch the world go by. $2,100,000

486115 30TH SIDEROAD, MONO One-of-a-kind custom-built bungalow on approx 30 acs in the hills of Mono. Attention to detail is evident: gourmet kit, quartz counters, over-sized island, pantry, cathedral clgs, wood beams, covered deck & more! $1,999,098

7172 COOLIHANS SIDEROAD A rural paradise w/ room for your poolside ING oasis! Everything you need S toKrelax in this luxA L urious, secluded part of Caledon. Completely L U R F throughout & still maintains reno’d, w/ hrdwd FO its original charm & character. $1,699,900

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Ross Hughes win20_layout 20-11-05 6:50 PM Page 1

RCR Realty, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

RossHughes.ca 519-938-2225

CUSTOM ESTATE Exquisite custom quality estate home on 60 gorgeous scenic acres. Incredible workmanship and stunning features. Lower lvl is ideal for family fun or an in-law suite. Meticulous grounds and farmable land + a large 60’x40’ workshop. Located close to Georgetown & Terra Cotta in a picturesque setting w/ future investment potential adjacent to estate subdivision. $4,800,000

1-800-268-2455

VICTORIAN REPLICA 50 acres with room to roam on this beautiful property featuring an 8-bedroom Victorian replica home with tennis court, swimming pool and hot tub. Lots of space to add your barn or enjoy all the country pursuits your heart desires. 23 acres currently farmed. All wrapped up in a convenient location with spacious rooms to enjoy inside on those rainy days. $3,700,000

ALTON AMENITIES, HISTORIC CHARM Welcome to the appeal of village life with this beautifully restored quarried stone home. Relax on the covered wrap-around porch with a drink, cozy up by the fireplace in the living room, or take in the scenery from the upper level balcony. Set well back from the road for peaceful ambience. The Village of Alton offers fantastic dining, outdoor activities for the whole family and The Alton Mill – home to some 25 studio artists, galleries, a heritage museum, café and unique shops. Visit altonhome.ca for more info about this exciting property and everything Alton has to offer. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. $849,900

CALEDON ESTATE LOT Your opportunity to build your dream home in the much admired Caledon Mountain Estates in a private enclave in Belfountain. The Bruce Trail at the end of your street, Forks of the Credit River, trails. Nature close to the city. $799,000

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ILLUS TR ATIONS JIM S TEWART

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Welcome back! As the world begins to open somewhat, several familiar events have moved online while others have instituted Covid-19 protocols. When planning to participate, please check with your favourite performers and organizations through their websites and social media platforms for details.

NOW – JAN 3 : ARTFUL GIVING: ARTISAN GIF TS & ART SALE Unique handcrafted

items in various media. Open holiday Mondays. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St Alton. 519-943-1149; headwatersarts.com NOW – FEB 21 : WHEN NIGHT STIRRED AT SEA – CONTEMPOR ARY CARIBBEAN ART

This virtual exhibition explores identity, colonization and social activism. 10am5pm. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca NOV 26 : PAMA ART & BOOK CLUB These

Ghosts Are Family by Maisy Card. Virtual, register online. 7pm. Brampton Library, PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca NOV 28 : ARTIST TALK – THE PHOTO ­ GR APHERS Featuring Vanley Burke, Christina Leslie, Janice Reid and Storm Saulter. Virtual. 2pm. Free. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

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DEC 1 : HOLIDAY CR AF T TAKE & MAKE

DEC 10 : CALLIGR APHY & COCK TAILS

DEC 15, JAN 19 & FEB 16 : OR ANGE

Pick up kit from the library. Make a winter-themed shadow box via Zoom.

10:30am. Free. Caledon Library, 905857-1400; caledon.library.on.ca

Create your own holiday cards virtually. 7pm. Free. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

THREADS Stitchery group discusses

DEC 15 : DECK THE TR AILS WITH SEEDS

DEC 19 : LUNCH & LEARN: L AND ­

DEC 1 – 12 : HOLIDAY TREASURES

Works from 57 artisans. In person: tickets in advance online or phone.

Online: on website. Local delivery or curbside pickup. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm.

Thu 11am-7pm. Donation. Museum of Dufferin, Hwy 89 & Airport Rd. 1-877941-7787; dufferinmuseum.com

& BERRIES Make a pinecone feeder. 7pm.

Free. Virtual event. TRCA, Caledon Library, 905-857-1400; caledon.library.on.ca

DECOR ATING CHALLENGE Treehouses, igloos, wow us on Zoom for a gift card prize. Individuals or teams. Children with an adult. 7pm. Free. Caledon Library, 905-857-1400; caledon.library.on.ca

CCS Caledon Community Services

DCAFS Dufferin Child

CPCC Caledon Parent-Child Centre

DPSN Dufferin Parent

CVC Credit Valley

EWCS East Wellington

Conservation

Community Services

and Family Services Support Network

projects and good books via Microsoft Teams. Register on the website.

1-2:30pm. orangevillelibrary.ca

SCAPES THROUGH THE YEARS Join us virtually. Noon. Free. PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca JAN 6 – FEB 28 : THE NEW MOOD! New resolves to embrace life. Open holiday Mondays. Wed-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

Alton Mill Arts Centre, 1402 Queen St, Alton. 519-943-1149; headwatersarts.com

DEC 10 : GINGERBREAD HOUSE-

ABBREVIATIONS

arts+letters

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 10 0

MOD Museum of Dufferin – Regular admission: $5; seniors $4; children 5-14 $2; under 5 free; family $12 PAMA Peel Art Gallery, Museum and

Archives – Regular admission: $5; students, seniors $4; family (2 adults & 5 children) $12

NVCA Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority OAS Orangeville Agricultural

Society Event Centre SBEC Orangeville & District Small Business Enterprise Centre

WELCOME TO THE 2020 - 2021 THE ROSE PRESENTS SEASON.

As we adapt to evolving guidelines, this season will look a bit different. We are proud to present virtual performances and opportunities for artists and audiences to connect.

Our free virtual performance series Live from The Rose features concerts recorded on our Mainstage and broadcast to audiences at home.

www.therosebrampton.ca

LEARN MORE

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JAN 28 : ARTIST TALK – PAINTING & TEX TILES Featuring Krystal Ball, Katrina Coombs, Javier Dayes, Owen V. Gordon and Miles Regis. Virtual. 7pm.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

community NOW – DEC 24 : THE SISTERS TOUCH OF CHRISTMAS Hand-painted ornaments,

www.theatreorangeville.ca Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives

Jump Up this Winter!

baking, decor and personalized gifts. Thu Fri 10am-7pm. Sat 10am-6pm. Sun 11am4pm. Dec 21-23 10am-7pm. Dec 24 10am3pm. St. Kosmas Aitolos Greek Orthodox Monastery, 14155 Caledon-King Line S, Bolton. 905-859-8077; thesisterstoc.com NOW – JAN 10 : OUR BOYS Virtual

profiles of three fallen WWI soldiers from Caledon, Brampton and Mississauga.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca NOW – ONGOING (MONDAYS) :

www.pama.peelregion.ca Visit pama.peelregion.ca to learn more

9 Wellington St. E., Brampton, ON L6W 1Y1 • 905-791-4055

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Drive-by-only viewing of lights (Kay Cee Gardens). Displays also at Alexandra Park.

5:30-10pm. Free. 29 Bythia St, Orangeville.

519-278-6100; orangevilleoptimists.ca DEC 5 : UPPER CREDIT HUMANE SOCIET Y THRIF T SHOP HOLIDAY BAKE SALE Proceeds to support the shelter.

Donations of baked goods appreciated.

Include ingredient list. Donations dropped off at the Thrift Shop Dec 4, 4-6pm or Dec 5, 9-10am. 10am-3pm. UCHS Thrift Shop, 68 Main St N, Georgetown.

519-833-2287; uppercredit.com DEC 5 : “LITER ALLY” HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS GAL A FOR CCS Livestream,

silent auction, “gala-in-a-basket” with wine, local restaurant gift card and other local goodies. Proceeds to Caledon Community Services. 7-10pm. $75. Friends of CCS, 905-584-2300 ext.230; ccshome4theholidays.com DEC 5 – MAR 27 (SATURDAYS) : CREEMORE WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET

See website for details and preordering.

8:30am-12:30pm. Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St E, Creemore. 705-8181251; creemorefarmersmarket.ca

NOV 7 – APR 17 (EVERY OTHER

OR ANGEVILLE & DISTRIC T PROBUS

for vendor list in Arena B. 9am-1pm.

Tony Rose Sports Centre, Orangeville.

Orangeville BIA, 519-942-0087; orangevillefarmersmarket.ca

PAMA is currently closed due to the pandemic and hopes to re-open this Winter.

Make sure to visit online for fantastic virtual exhibitions and programming.

DEC 4 – 31 : CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK

or online discussion group of the Gospel of Matthew. Join anytime.

7-8:30pm. Brampton Christian School, 12480 Hutchinson Farm Ln, Caledon. tabitha.ebs@gmail.com

FARMERS’ MARKET See the website

• Jump Up! Celebrating Caribbean Carnivals • We Are Hockey: Exploring the diverse history of Canada’s national pastime

on website. Caledon Library, 905857-1400; caledon.library.on.ca

EXPLORER’S BIBLE STUDY On-site

SATURDAY ) : OR ANGEVILLE WINTER

Coming January 2021

H A P P E N I N G S

NOV 14 – DEC 24 : CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Find treasures for

everyone. Collect stamps for prizes.

9am-3pm. Main St, Village of Erin. Erin BIA, 519-833-9258; villageoferin.com Nov 30 & DEC 28 : OR ANGEVILLE BLOOD DONOR CLINIC The need for blood goes on. Book online. 2-7pm. Best Western, 7 Buena Vista Dr, Orangeville. Canadian Blood Services, 1-888-2DONATE; blood.ca DEC 3 : PODCASTS & PINTS Casual conversation and recommendations.

7pm. Free. Join Zoom meeting via link

DEC 10, JAN 14, FEB 11 & MAR 11 :

Meetings via Zoom, link via website. Dec 10: Christmas program. Jan 14: TBA. Feb 11: Special Valentine’s presentation. Mar 11: TBA. Attend as a guest. 10am-noon.

519-307-1789; probusorangeville.club JAN 16 – APR 25 : JUMP UP! CELE­ BR ATING CARIBBEAN CARNIVALS Virtual

history, emancipation, immigration and contemporary life in southern Ontario.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 10 2

DECEMBER 1st to 12th Tuesday to Saturday, 11 am until 4 pm. Thursday until 7pm Join us for our annual Holiday Treasures, Arts & Craft Sale at the MoD. Works from 56 one-of-a-kind vendors, artists & makers will be displayed in the festive Main Gallery.

This holiday season, you can shop local, support local & find something for everyone on your list.

From unique jewellery, pottery & woodcraft to glasswork, fine art and much more!

To ensure physical distancing and a safe shopping experience for everyone, your free pass must be reserved online in advance at dufferinmuseum.com or call us at 519-941-1114. New this year, shop online with curbside pick-up and local delivery options!

www.dufferinmuseum.com 936029 Airport Rd, Mulmur . 519-941-1114 . dufferinmuseum.com Sponsored by

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a r t s + c ult ur e + t he at r e Alton Mill Arts Centre 48 Dragonfly Arts on Broadway 43 Maggiolly Art Supplies 42 Museum of Dufferin 101 Noodle Gallery 48 Peel Art Gallery, Museum & Archives 100 Rose Theatre 99 Theatre Orangeville 100

O U R

A D V E R T I S E R S

Rustik Local Bistro 64 Spirit Tree Estate Cidery 64 Terra Nova Public House 64 The Busholme Gastro Pub 55 The Globe Rosemont 63

A T

I N T H E H I L L S . C A

h o me d é c o r + f ur ni s hin g s

au t o

Holiday Treasures, MoD 101

Caledon Lighting 46 Decor Solutions Furniture & Design 55 Framed X Design 79 Granny Taught Us How 108 Heidi’s Room 108 Orangeville Furniture 13 Pear Home 61 Recovering Nicely 83 Sproule’s Emporium 43 The Weathervane 55

Caledon Motors 58 Jaguar Landrover, Zanchin Automotive Group 5

f a r m + f e e d s up p l ie s

h o me imp ro v e me n t + r e pa ir

Budson Farm & Feed Company 55

be au t y + f i t ne s s

f a r m + g a r d e n e q uip me n t

Bridlewood Soaps 53 Foxy Face Lash Forever 43 Go Yoga 42 Headwaters Racquet Club 77 Henning Salon 42 Riverdale Fitness Mill 87 Skin ’n’ Tonic 42 Skin by Mosaic 42

Larry’s Small Engines 77

All-Mont Garage Doors 75 AllPro Roofing 6 Bolton Electrical Supply 46 Cairns Roofing 11 Caledon Tile 22 CBG Homes 83 Celtic Carpet 85 Karry Home Solutions 16 Leathertown Lumber 71 Orangeville Home Hardware 12 Roberts Roofing 2 Synergy Exteriors 107 The Plumbing Expert 20

e n v iro nme n t Credit Valley Conservation 73

events

f a s hi o n + je w e l l e r y A.M. Korsten Jewellers 45 Gallery Gemma 49 . 53 Hannah’s 55 Noinkees 53 Scented Drawer Fine Lingerie 43 Seconds Count Hospital Thrift Store 42

books

f e n c in g

BookLore 38

McGuire Fence 73

buil d e r s + a rc hi t e c t s + developers

in t e r i o r d e c o r at i o n + d e s i g n McNeil Design Group Interiors 61

f in a n c i a l s e r v i c e s Main Street Mortgages, C. Graham 43 RBC Dominion Securities, S. Roud 32

Alinea Design Associates Ltd. 51 Classic Renovations 71 Dalerose Country 85 Dutch Masters 66 Harry Morison Lay, Architect 49 Pine Meadows 81 Post Farm Structures 16 River Ridge Contracter & Builder 9 Stockridge Construction 39 Westview Condos by Devonleigh 7 Wheelwright Group 87

f ir e p l a c e s a l e s + s e r v i c e

l a nd s c a p in g + g a r d e nin g Jay’s Custom Sheds 73 Sinovi Masonry & Stonescapes 46 Tumber Landscape & Supply 3

Caledon Fireplace 86

flowers

m o v in g s e r v i c e s Downsizing Diva 86

Suzanne Gardner Flowers 43

f o o d + d r ink + c at e r in g

c at t l e 4th Line Cattle Co. 66

c h a r i ta b l e o rg a ni z at i o n s Brampton Caledon Community Fdn 24 Headwaters Health Care Fdn 24

c o mmuni t y s e r v i c e s

Debora’s Chocolates 55 Fromage 42 Garden Foods 67 Gourmandissimo Catering & Fine Food Shop 62 Lavender Blue Catering 66 Orangeville Winter Market 43 Pommies Cider 63 The Vine Agency 59 . 63

p e t s up p l ie s + s e r v i c e s Global Pet Foods 10

p h o t o o rg a ni z at i o n Megabyte Memories 81

D&D Pools & Spas 50

p ro f e s s i o n a l s e r v i c e s Carters Law Firm 32

g e ne r at o r s

r e a l e s tat e + h o me in s p e c t i o n s

Tanco Group 32

dance

he a lt h + w e l l ne s s

Academy of Performing Arts 43

Avita Integrated Health 86 Big Smiles Mobile Dental Hygiene 50 Dr. Richard Pragnell 81 Healing Moon 42

Bosley Real Estate 51 Velvet Alcorn Century 21 Millennium Inc. 15 . 97 Amir Mojallali Century 21 Millennium Inc. 93 Mary Klein, Kaitlan Klein Chestnut Park Real Estate 96 Sue Collis, Sarah MacLean Clairwood Real Estate Corporation 87 Jacqui Viaene

Forage 64 Judy’s Restaurant 64 Landman Garden & Bakery 64 Le Finis 64 Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant 64 Pia’s on Broadway 64 102

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he at in g + c o o l in g Arseneau Home Comfort 72 Bryan’s Fuel 14

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 10 4 2 0 2 0

NOW – JAN 8 : HOLIDAY LIGHTS EX TR AVAGANZ A & SANTA’S FIRE TRUCK

View displays from your vehicle. GIS map online. Sirens and music are your cue to see Santa as he drives by. Route not disclosed in advance. Free. Town of Orangeville, 519-940-9092 ex 4129; orangeville.ca NOW – ONGOING (SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS) : WEEKEND FAMILY FUN AC TIVITIES Instructions free online using

simple materials for art and games.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca NOW – ONGOING (MONDAYS) : OR ANGEVILLE TR ADITIONAL SCOUTING

Scouting program for 7- to 10-year-olds.

7-8:30pm. $120. Mono Amaranth Public School, 246303 Hockley Rd, Mono.

905-746-9501; traditionalscouting.ca DEC 5 : BOLTON SANTA CL AUS SINGLE-FLOAT DRIVE-BY TOUR

Santa will tour 24km of the Bolton community. Map will be posted online.

416-904-4841; boltonkin.com DEC 21 – JAN 1 : HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS – WINTER BREAK Virtual Family Fun activities and STEAM activity kits (cost TBD). PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton. 905791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca FEB 15 : CARIBBEAN/CARIBANA FAMILY DAY Explore the history of

pool s

Caledon Community Services 30 Caledon Dufferin Victim Services 30

d inin g

kids

Caribbean Carnival. 10am-4pm. Free.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca MAR 15 – 19 : PAMA MARCH BREAK: WE ARE HOCKEY Instructor-led activities

and special guests. 10am-4pm. Free.

PAMA, 9 Wellington St E, Brampton.

905-791-4055; pama.peelregion.ca

music NOV – MAR: VIRTUAL MUSIC AT ROSE THEATRE Concerts recorded on the Main Stage and broadcast online. See website. Free. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln, Brampton. 905-874-2800; rosetheatre.ca

visit inthehill s.c a

NOV 28 : CALEDON CHAMBER

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

TRIO Program TBA. $35; $15 students

16 & under, advance only. 7:30-8:30pm.

St. James Anglican Church, 6025 Old Church Rd, Caledon East. 905-8802445; caledonchamberconcerts.com DEC 13 – 25 : A PANDEMIC CHRISTMAS PRODUC TION OF UNPAR ALLELED PROPORTIONS David Nairn as Elfie

virtually visits local artists who share Christmas songs. Premieres on YouTube Dec 13 8pm, available through Christmas Day. orangevilleshowchorus.com DEC 16 : ACHILL ONLINE HOLIDAY

RIDES – AGES 10+ One hour. 10am-3pm.

Go to inthehills.ca and select ‘what’s on’ from the menu bar.

That will take you to the listings page. Select ‘submit your event’ and complete the easy form.

For the spring (March) issue, submit by February 5, 2021.

Hanukkah and Winter Solstice. View on Achill’s YouTube channel. See website or Facebook page for tickets. 8-9:15pm.

Achill Choral Society, achill.ca

$55; register and pay before arrival, rachel. stevens@teenranch.com. 20682 Hurontario St, Caledon. 519-941-4501; teenranch.com

theatre+film DEC 2 : THEATRE & COMEDY FOR CHANGE

For up-to-date listings between issues, click ‘what’s on’ on the menu bar at inthehills.ca.

BRIGHT! Songs celebrating Christmas,

WINTER ONLINE

NOW – ONGOING : TEEN R ANCH TR AIL

To submit your community, arts or nonprofit event:

CONCERT – STAR LIGHT, HOLIDAY

outdoor

We reserve the right to edit submissions for print and web publication.

– AGES 14+ Join a panel of acclaimed artists PETE PATERSON

CONCERTS – THE CALLISTO PIANO

on Zoom as they advocate for change.

Network virtually. 7-8:30pm. Free. Rose Theatre, 905-874-2800; rosetheatre.ca DEC 4 – JAN 3 : A READING OF A CHRIST-

KITCHEN CAPERS

MAS CAROL Online reading of a timeless

classic. Link available for purchase now to Jan 1. Show available for viewing Dec 4 7pm. Link expires Jan 3 10pm. $35; combined with Rockin’ Round the Christmas Tree, $50. Theatre Orangeville, 519-942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

INTHEHILLS.CA

DEC 18 – JAN 3 : ROCKIN’ ROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE WITH LEISA WAY & THE WAY WARD WIND BAND Watch this musical extravaganza from home.

Buy link until Jan 1. Show available for viewing Dec 18 7pm. Link expires Jan 3 10pm. $35; combined with A Reading of A Christmas Carol, $50. Theatre Orangeville, 519942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

It’s time for classic winter with recipes from some of our favourite local experts. Tangy sauerkraut, French onion soup and a winter whiskey sour are on the menu. Cheers!

JAN 15 – 28 : BROADWAY BOUND – THEATRE OR ANGEVILLE PRESENTS ONLINE Cabaret-style musical theatre

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

by Theatre Orangeville Youth Alumnae.

Link available for purchase now to Jan 26. Show available for viewing Jan 15 7pm. Link expires Jan 28 10pm. $20.

519-942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

Go behind the scenes to learn about some of the best winter sports Headwaters has to offer. We call a tie between curling or cross-country skiing at night and fat biking by day.

JAN 29 – FEB 11 : BR AVE NEW WORKS – THEATRE OR ANGEVILLE PRESENTS ONLINE Theatre Orangeville Youth

Alumnae create funny, raw and heartbreakingly honest performances.

Link available for purchase now to Feb 9. Show available for viewing Jan 29 7pm. Link expires Feb 11 10pm. $20.

519-942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

OTTER SPOTTING

FEB 12 – 25 : AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART

S O L U T I O N S

7 to 4 best, tuck, ploy, corn, urge Build your own zoo ‘l’ in lamb ‘i’ in pig ‘o’ in buffalo and ‘n’ in dragon Counting chickens Four. They are standing in a square pattern.

How many wishes?

Our solution is 15.

F R O M

P A G E

1 0 6

Alligators in Caledon Lake?

Aahan and Bea swim to shore (7 minutes); Aahan returns to the island with the device (3); Carly and Dante swim to shore (17); Bea returns the device (7); Aahan and Bea return to shore (7). Total swimming time (41).

Test your recall with our Christmas crafts 1: yes, the reindeer looks behind; 2: yes, the gingerbread man wears a white bow tie; 3: no, the skate is not paired; 4, yes, there is no wreath; 5: yes, the bell clanger is white; 6: no, the mittens also have snowflakes; 7: yes, the rocking horse is saddled; 8: no, the snowman has arms but no buttons; 9: there is no tree at all!

– THEATRE OR ANGEVILLE PRESENTS ONLINE Glorious music and gales of

ROBERT MCCAW

P U Z Z L I N G

laughter. Link available for purchase now to Feb 23. Show available for viewing Feb 12 7pm. Link expires Feb 25 10pm. $25.

519-942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

Check in with nature expert Don Scallen’s “Notes from the Wild” for a winter nature refresh with clever otters, a guide to animal tracks and an ode to boreal birds.

FEB 26 – MAR 11 : SCRIP T TEASE – THEATRE OR ANGEVILLE PRESENTS ONLINE Readings of original works.

Link available for purchase now to Mar 9. Show available for viewing Feb 26 7pm. Link expires Mar 11 10pm. $25.

519-942-3423; theatreorangeville.ca

FOLLOW US

MAR 7 – 21 : TO DIE FOR Twisting comedythriller with two female combatants and one handsome man. Fri Sat 8pm. Sun 2:30pm. $20. 72 Trafalgar Rd, Hillsburgh.

519-855-4586; centurychurchtheatre.com

inthehill s inthehill smag inthehill smag

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A D V E R T I S E R I N D E X C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 10 2

Coldwell Banker, Cornerstone Realty 79 Nancy Urekar Coldwell Banker, Ronan Realty 90 Marc Ronan, Sarah Lunn Coldwell Banker Select Realty 58 Verona Teskey Moffat Dunlap Real Estate 95 Moffat Dunlap, John Dunlap, Murray Snider, Nik Bonellos, Elizabeth Campbell, Courtney Murgatroyd, Sean Wynn, Mark Campbell, David Warren ReMax In The Hills 91 Chris Richie, Sean Anderson, Dale Poremba, Jennifer Unger ReMax Real Estate Centre 4 Ann Shanahan, Bonnie Sturgeon, Sarah Anthon, Brandi Kirk ReMax Realty Specialists Inc. 84 . 96 Sigrid Doherty ReMax Realty Specialists Inc. 22 Maria Britto Royal LePage Credit Valley 62 Rita Lange Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty 20 Denise Dilbey Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty 97 Paul Richardson Royal Le Page RCR Realty 96 Basia Regan Royal LePage RCR Realty 92 Doug & Chris Schild Royal LePage RCR Realty 94 Matt Lindsay Royal LePage RCR Realty 8 Mullin Group Royal LePage RCR Realty 94 Roger Irwin, Dawn Bennett Royal Lepage RCR Realty 97 Ross Hughes Royal LePage RCR Realty 40 . 88 Suzanne Lawrence Royal LePage RCR Realty 96 Victoria Phillips, Janna Imrie Royal Le Page RCR Realty 11 . 18 Wayne Baguley Sutton-Headwaters Realty 89 Jim Wallace Sutton-Headwaters Realty 94 Sarah Aston

www.krystlemoorepaintings.ca

www.joangray.ca www.natureshealing.ca www.theauctionadvertiser.com/KMcArthur 5417@tbrg.ca

www.pvrbeef.ca

info@schoolofmiracles.ca

rv sales & service Under the Stars RV 75

s e ni o r s ’ s e r v i c e s Avalon Retirement Lodge 18 Headwaters Home Care 50

t o ur i s m + t r av e l Caledon Travel 58 Central Counties Tourism 34 . 35 Migrations Travel and Cruises 45 Orangeville BIA 42 . 43 Town of Caledon 24 Town of Erin 54 . 55 Town of Orangeville 30

www.heavensbestorangeville.com

toy s tores Marigold’s Toys 43 104

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frank@homeenhancers.ca

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www.thirstylawn.ca

karena@goodison.com

www.theoutsideguy.ca

www.environmentalpestcontrol.ca

radhadiaram@remax.net

www.pyramid-contracting.com www.kirkbyjewellerydesigns.com

www.woolandsilkco.com

www.echohill.ca www.charlesemersontreeservice.com

www.typeandimages.ca

www.ottstreeservice.com

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a Puzzling Conclusion

BY KEN WEBER

Test your recall with our Christmas crafts Enjoy this panel of felt tree ornaments for as long as you wish. Then hide it from view and respond to the statements at the bottom of the page with a yes or a no.

7 to 4

Alligators in Caledon Lake?

Delete three letters from each word in the list below, then anagram the four remaining letters into a regular English word. Each letter you delete must match a letter in the outer ring. A letter in the outer ring may be matched only once.

d

a g

i o

bristle panoply

h

r

undergo

l

e

ketchup

i

Only in a puzzle could there be alligators in Caledon Lake, but then only in a puzzle could those alligators trap Aahan, Bea, Carly and Dante on an island in the lake.

All four kids can swim well enough, and fortunately they have a sound wave device that repels reptiles, providing protection in the water for up to two swimmers at once.

There is no boat on the island and the island is too isolated to shout for help, so with night and cold air coming on they make a plan that, with the help of the sound wave device, enables all four to swim to the mainland shore safely in the least possible time.

n

organic a

n p

How many wishes?

Each of the four has covered the distance to shore several times over the summer so they know that Aahan does it in 3 minutes and Bea in 7, but that Carly takes 13 minutes and Dante 17.

Starting at the W each time and moving from circle to touching circle in any direction, how many different times can you trace the word wish?

What strategy will get everyone safely to shore in the least minutes of total swimming time?

p

H

Counting your chickens after they’re hatched

H

When you look out the window at the yard, you see 2 chickens in front of 2 other chickens, 2 chickens behind 2 other chickens, and 2 chickens beside 2 other chickens.

H

How many chickens do you have in the yard?

Test your recall with our Christmas crafts 1

3

The reindeer has turned his head to look behind him.

Mittens, stockings and skates are all in pairs.

2

4

The gingerbread man wears a white bow tie.

There is no Christmas wreath in the panel.

S

S

Build your own zoo Show how you can make a lion with the head of a lamb, the body of a pig, the rear end of a buffalo, and the tail of a dragon.

H

I

I

I

H

S

I

W

I

S

H

S

I

S

H

I

S

H

H 5 The clanger (aka clapper) in the bell is white.

H

6

8

The red star is the only orna­ ment with a snowflake on it.

The snowman has eyes, mouth, a nose and buttons, but no arms.

7

9

The rocking horse wears a saddle.

The Christmas tree is green with red trimmings.

O U R S O L U T I O N S O N PA G E 10 3

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www.synergyexteriors.ca

www.grannytaughtushow.com

www.grannytaughtushow.com GR ANN Y TAUGHTUSHOW.COM / 519·925 ·2748 / SUN –THU 10 – 6 / FRI – SAT 10 –7 MRSMITCHELL S.COM / 519·925 ·3627 / TUE– SUN / JOIN US FOR LUNCH BRUNCH OR DINNER IN THE HAMLE T OF VIOLET HILL ON HW Y 89 BE T W EEN HW Y 10 & AIRPORT ROA D