{flip over} FALL 2021
Giving Thanks top-notch Attractions, Art, entertainment, FOOD, DRINK, history and Outdoor Adventures. It is Just down the Road AND around the bend in Beautiful Southwestern Ontario
Live it for a day... Live it for a lifetime!
Your FREE Guide to Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Brantford, Oxford, The villages of Hamilton + FARM FEASTS / STAYCATION DESTINATIONS / TEAM MAGIC / EXPLORING OutdoorS / NOISE MAKERS / Wellness matters / Simply Delicious Dishes & a whole lotta unabashed, local pride!
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BRANTFORD
Brantford Farmers’ Market Sociable Kitchen + Tavern
Over 70 km of Trails
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FOOT LOCKER // H&M // MAURICES // SPORT CHEK // URBAN KIDS
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What’s inside
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy Destination Ontario destinationontario.com
Live Small Town / Fall 2021
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Let’s Get Social There is never a shortage of praise for our magazine, with so many local-loving folks reaching out via social media. Here are just a few of our faves!
Meet Your Neighbours Never before has the community been more important, and these three individuals are actively bringing us all closer together.
Staycation Destination With the anticipation of warmer days buzzing in the air, exploring local is the best way to blow the dust off and start fresh!
Wellness Matters Yet again, another inspired small-town local tells an up-close and personal story of discovering her personal strength.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 5
What’s inside
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Team Magic Every dream begins with a plan, and our current magazine would like to introduce you to the team of talented folks who helped to make Live Small Town possible.
Deep Roots We help bring local history back to life and tell you where to look for heritage, knowledge and wonderment in your community. Let’s get out and explore!
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Small Town Changemakers Meet some of the most amazing people, places and businesses making a difference in your community and learn how you can help them do it.
Arts & Culture From world-class artists and live theatre to intimate concerts, get introduced to local talent and discover the best places to soak up and enjoy the culture.
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Food for Thought Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth, a rich palette, or simply enjoy a night out on the town or quiet afternoon to relax, we’ve got the place for you.
Nature Calls When the weather is nice, and your agenda is open, there’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors, and we want to get you pointed in the right direction.
6 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy Destination Ontario destinationontario.com
Live Small Town / Fall 2021
Your biggest investments deserves more than a “quick online quote.” Our goal is to deliver the best personal home insurance experience that treats you like a neighbour, not a number. Contact us for a quote.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 7
FALL VOL.5 NO. 2 PhotographERS
Eddie Adams, Mike Bourgeault, Kara Burrow, Sharon Canovas Photography, Tara Carpenter, Chris Forrest, Nancy Domsic Kings, Marc Douglas, Spicy Jan, Brent Perniac, Jay Perry, Mike Schymkiw, Belinda Smith, Erika Strada, Francine Tausney, Nicole VanQuaethem Writers
COmfORt & StyLE. CLOSER tHAn yOU CAn ImAGInE!
Tara Carpenter, Steve Thomas Greer, Nancy Howden-Cowell, Spicy Jan, Kerstein Mallon, Sandy Marincic, Emmalee Nother, Jay Perry, Jessica Sharrow, Kate Sharrow, Erika Strada, Francine Tausney, Jules Torti, Nicole VanQuaethem, Sara Moody Veldhuis, Tim Zwart Copy Editor
Alberto Candela
SOCIAL MEDIA
Nancy Howden-Cowell, Donna Ferrawey, Sarah Gurney, Kerri Kelly-Parkinson, Tara Shannon, Kate Sharrow, Erika Strada Small town Gal/Owner/ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Kerri Kelly-Parkinson kerri@livesmalltownmag.ca SALES TEAM
Sarah Gurney sarah@livesmalltownmag.ca Rhonda Arnott rhonda@livesmalltownmag.ca Small town Gal/Owner/ Art Director/Editor/ PUBLISHER
Kate Sharrow kate@livesmalltownmag.ca
Hearth & Home has spent the last 40-plus years specializing in gas fireplaces, heating, cooling, and water treatment products and services. Focusing on the growth of our expertise, we have become Brantford’s home comfort specialists! 24 HOUR SERVICE
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Live Small Town magazine is printed four times a year and distributed throughout southern Ontario via various tourist associations, related services, retail locations and limited home distribution. Copyright 2021 Live Small Town magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Opinions and comments reflect those of the writers and are not necessarily those of the editorial and staff. At the time of publication, we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible. Please feel free to contact us with any concerns or corrections you may have.
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brantfordgolfandcountryclub.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 9
Team Magic
Authentic people, engaging stories and a sense of community fellowship are what make small towns what they are, so it should come as no surprise that these are the pillars upon which the Live Small Town concept is built. We’ve started our own “town” within these very pages, and we’d love to introduce ourselves and invite you inside! 10 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
KERRI KELLY-PARKINSON
livesmalltownmag.ca While pondering what to write here, the only word swirling in my head was thankfulness. I am thankful that my family is safe and healthy to date. I am thankful for my amazing support system. I am grateful that we have such fabulous advertisers that all understood our stance on Covid-19. We have a brilliant team that stayed strong and held hope that our mag would be back at it again. None of what we do is important without good health, love and happiness. Let us all put that first, help one another and keep working toward a safe and healthy country. Mask up and keep smiling.
Emmalee Nother
You’ve got to try Jan’s delicious Explore Local Tasting Box!
Spicy Jan
tastyroadtrips.com It feels great to be back into the culinary tourism space again, and what a ride the past 18 months have been! I don’t love rollercoasters, yet this ride has pushed my ability to adapt and pivot in ways I didn’t even know were inside me. Get ready for a stronger local movement of #EatLocal #ShopLocal #CookLocal as we continue to uncover the dedicated work of our farmers, producers, creators, chefs and bakers. These talented people have not stopped feeding their communities. They haven’t come up for air and will continue to work behind the scenes to bring us the goodness of locally inspired and global dishes to fill our bellies and satisfy the culinary experiences we have missed so much. Check out Jan’s Tasty Road Trips as I journey on a delicious new adventure that continues to support local culinary tourism. Cheers!
KATE SHARROW
livesmalltownmag.ca Oh goodness, gracious, I have been fretting about our community partners for almost two years. I was worrying that all of this crazy was too much to bear. What I should have done was get on the phone to call and ask them how they were doing because I would have saved myself so many heartaches! Don’t get me wrong, folks have struggled, but every person I have talked to has told me beautiful stories of how the community embraced and circled them to encourage them to hang on and how they could not be more grateful to discover their neighbours care.
I’m a local lady with a love for all things country, hockey and small town. Born and raised in beautiful Haldimand County, my passion for where I grew up runs deep. My adventures have taken me from coast to coast in the entertainment biz but I always return home to my rescue dog, Duke, and my cats on the farm.
NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL
I live in a beautiful small village on the shores of Lake Erie and am surrounded by family, friends, art, local beauty, goodness and my two sweet dogs Bella and Mia. I will explore all the hidden gems that our lovely wee towns offer and share those experiences with you on social media and in the pages of Live Small Town magazine.
J.C. VILLAMERE
Sarah Gurney
I was born and raised in a big city, but am now a selfmade small townee. I live for weekends wandering shops, parks, and pretty places with my funny husband-and-son duo. When I have a spare moment not chasing my four-year-old, you can find me picking at my guitar, baking something yummy, or tackling a messy reno project around the house. I am also one of the sales teammates at Live Small Town magazine! If you are in the Brantford/Paris area and have an interest in becoming one of our beloved and valued advertising partners, please give me a call at 226-220-7340 or email me at sarah@livesmalltownmag.ca
villamere.com I live in Hamilton where there’s a guy who has fashioned a dog sled out of a shopping cart and he mushes his team through the GO Station parking lot after dark. This magazine helps people like me get out of Hamilton to encounter nature in a more rural setting. Buy my national best-seller, Is Canada Even Real?
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 11
MARC DOUGLAS
marcdouglas.ca I am Marc Douglas a wedding/lifestyle photographer. I wouldn’t change a thing about growing up in the small town of Paris where I discovered a love for photography. Photography has always been a labour of love for me. My ultimate goal has always been to show the beauty, strength and enthusiasm in my subjects. As a father of two amazing children, I am a proud supporter of all things involving fighting childhood cancer. I believe in enjoying all the little moments because you never know what tomorrow brings. Nicole VanQuaethem
randomwellnessco.com As a registered holistic nutritionist, culinary nutrition expert and owner of Random Wellness Co., I focus on empowering people to make healthy choices. I have my masters of science in rural planning and development where I focused most of my research on local food systems, agri tourism, culinary tourism and food access. Combining my passion for nutrition and local food, I teach people to eat within the seasons and to become connected to food. In my free time, when not in the kitchen testing recipes, I love getting outside, and cuddling and exploring with my little dog Chloe. Lisa Lalonde
smalltownmortgage.com As a born and raised Paris, Ontario, resident, I know the big heart of small-town living first hand. We have valued lifelong friendships, numerous neighbourhood gatherings, and memories of my husband and I freezing our butts off at the arena watching hockey or melting on the soccer field while cheering our boys and their team mates on. Running my business as a mortgage agent with Axiom Mortgage Solutions and being the finance manager for Live Small Town magazine gives me the opportunity to meet and work with other small town residents like myself, who share my passion for the small town lifestyle and the feeling of community it creates. 12 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Sara Moody Veldhuis
UniversalArtsManagement.com I’m a classically-trained trombonist and singer, a photographer, and in my daily life, I teach music to teenagers - and love it. I’ve been a Juno Awards judge, floated an orchestra on a barge, and have secrets about Celine Dion that I will take to my grave. From a young age I’ve lived life on max: at 12 I went solo to Japan, toured Europe with a band in high school, and met my husband in an orchestra when we were 17. Together, we’ve made a great life with our two kids and a bunch of kitties (want one?) on our little patch of paradise: a farm in Haldimand County. Jessica Sharrow MSW, RSW
beautifulwellness.ca I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, a mother, a sister, an auntie, a friend, a survivor and the owner of Beautiful Wellness Counselling and Support Services. My goal is to support them through their healing journey while encouraging the total wellness. I received my master’s of Social Work from Laurier University with an Indigenous field of study. I have experienced my share of hard knocks, which inspired my studies in personal wellness. I believe that we all have the resilience to survive. Still, sometimes we all benefit from a compassionate guide. Sandy Marincic
sandy@ubenefit.ca I’m an avid motorcyclist, world traveller, cook, artist, woodworker and thinker, and I am slowly learning that all opinions needn’t be shared. The way we humans mesh with one another (or not), and how we mess with nature (or not) is a fascinating jigsaw puzzle. I am on the floor looking for the missing pieces – they must be somewhere, no? I also own Benefact Benefit Consultants, where I encourage my employer/ employee clients to work as a team; when people enjoy shared goals and work towards them together, success follows. All of the above is based on the ability to care.
Jay Perry
jayperry.ca Over the last eight years, besides working as a photographer, I have been spending my Sundays travelling to small pockets of Ontario and documenting my day trips online. Whether it be stories of unique individuals, delicious food, or historic landmarks, I’ve been detailing every event through photo, video and words. Look for this regular feature in Live Small Town mag but also please like us on our Facebookpage and my adventures on Instagram. I have some exciting ideas coming up and I can’t wait to show everyone the beauty that resides in our small towns. I also started a charity called Friends With Heart, that has raised $227,619.87 and provided 3,000+ children with positive memories in an attempt to restore the magic of Christmas to them and their families. Tara Carpenter
groweoutdoorschool.ca. I discovered my love for nature and the outdoors at an early age while growing up on a Norfolk farm. I have always been an avid enthusiast of nature and travel, and for 17 years I roamed all corners of the globe in search of adventure. From sailing Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to hitchhiking across Canada, I made myself at home in nature’s embrace. Grounded by the unique challenges of motherhood, I now encourages other parents and families to get outdoors and foster their own passion for environmental connectedness. Tim Zwart
timjzwart.com Throughout my life, have always embraced being a round peg in a square hole. A walking contradiction, I am a dad of two small children, a partner to a wonderful woman, an American void of ignorance, I love poutine but not maple syrup, and love sports but not hockey. I am a publishing veteran, magazine editor and author. My first book, Reload: Changing the Way We View Guns in America, is available on Amazon.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 13
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Rhonda Arnott
Born and raised in Hamilton, I often visited my grandparents in Selkirk. Who knew that Jarvis would one day be my home sweet home? I live here with my handsome and lovable husband. For 21 years, I worked in executive sales and always had an entrepreneurial heart so six years ago I took a leap and opened Ty-Kobee Tea & Coffee Co in Port Dover. I am part of the sales team of Live Small Town magazine. Being in business myself, I know how important the right advertising is. You never want to be a ‘hidden gem’! Message me at rhonda@livesmalltownmag.ca. Can’t wait to help you shine!
Simcoe
Jules Torti
Jules is the author of Free to a Good Home: With Room For Improvement (Caitlin Press). She is the editorin-chief of Harrowsmith magazine and writes about the best things in life (birds, burgers, beaches, beer: in no particular order) for Cottage Life, FASHION, realtor.ca’s Living Room and Grand magazine. Torti has been published in The Vancouver Sun, The Globe and Mail, Massage Therapy Canada and Coast Mountain Culture magazine. In other lives she has made breakfast for 26 chimpanzees in the Congo and illustrated colouring books for the Jane Goodall Institute and the Dian Fossey Foundation. Her second memoir, Trail Mix: 920km on the Camino de Santiago (Rocky Mountain Books) will drop this September! Kerstein Mallon
Growing up, in the magical land of fairies and leprechauns, twixt twilight and morning dew, I learned there’s more to life than meets the eye. Exploring ancient ruins offered an understanding of the past, present and future and how they intertwine. Now living in Ontario’s Garden enables me to meet wonderful people and visit truly remarkable places. It’s my absolute pleasure to be able to share these unique stories with you.
celebrating
27 years in business
Did you know that the most important repair to make before selling your home is to refresh flooring?
A fresh start, from the ground up. FIND YOUR STYLE. AND COMFORT LEVEL. WE MAKE IT EASY.
41 Park Road, Simcoe 519-426-2619
nufloors.ca/simcoe
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 15
When it is safe to do so, the County of Brant encourages residents to ensure they have a RSVP - a Responsible Safe Visitation Plan when out supporting our County of Brant businesses and visiting our communities.
SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT.
Retail stores and restaurants have limited capacity. By booking ahead of time, business owners are able to properly plan their day and can ensure you are able to visit safely.
WEAR A MASK.
The Province of Ontario requires the use of a face covering (non-medical mask, such as a cloth mask) in indoor public spaces and whenever physical distancing is a challenge.
PRACTICE PHYSICAL DISTANCING
During the pandemic, it’s important to stay at least two metres away from anyone who you do not live with. Did you know that two metres is exactly half the size of a blue canoe?
WASH YOUR HANDS
Wash your hands often, especially when visiting public places.
STAY HOME
Stay home if you are feeling unwell, and please reschedule your visit.
To learn more, visit brant.ca/RSVP
Brant Economic Development & Tourism fitl @BrantTourism | #LoveLocalBrant
brant.ca/RSVP
LET’S GET SOCIAL! With over 6,085 followers on twitter, 6,060 on Facebook, AND 3,035 On Instagram, there was no shortage of praise for our LAST issue of Live Small Town Magazine. Here are just a few of our Faves. The Olive Oil Company The best magazine published. Many of our customers think they have to pay for it. It looks so good. Hamilton Health Sciences Thank you for your support! Donna Stewart This magazine really shows the joys of small-town living. The articles are engaging, and the photos are top drawer! Carrie Biro This magazine has plenty of information about the area, from restaurants to trails and more. I’m pleased with all the information. @jjanzen007I love your magazine. Do you have subscriptions available? Aliki Mikulich Hi - thanks so much for posting my art and statement. I really appreciate the support. Sharyn Smith Love it! the small town info on living and its residents is amazing. Lisa Koppert Wondering how we would be able to get a few copies of this great magazine? We have a country Airbnb just outside Otterville and would love to have a few hard copies for our guests to read and give them more ideas of things to do and places to see in the area. Jim W. Drur Focus on the local...what could be better than that. Lara A Sawaya-Norman As always, Thankyou for the shout-out!!! You girls are amazing!!!! Dawn Butterworth-Nunn Can I subscribe to this magazine? Live Smalltown mag Hi, sorry, we do not offer subscriptions because we intend to get folks into our small town businesses to pick mags up and support locals instead of big box. Cathy Barzo A beautiful glossy magazine is showcasing rural and small-town living and the talent of its residents. A great resource if you won’t want to set off on a day trip. Ralphys Retreat You are welcome to visit our hairy coos anytime! They would love to be in the magazine!!! Julie Marchese Everyone is so excited and looks forward to the next edition. I love this magazine so much spread of everything around. Live Small Town mag It is so lovely of you all to take the time to say such nice things. It truly means a lot!
September 2 - 6, 2021 Our staff are so excited to be working diligently to create a safe venue for friends to gather at the 2021 Paris Fair. Watch social media and our website for more exciting information and updates.
parisfairgrounds.com 139 Silver St. PariS, ON 519-442-2823
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 17
MORE THAN A MAG!
Let’s Get Social Too!
There’s no sibling rivalry between Live’s printed & social media pages. They both bask in all the attention each gets! It is easy to get excited about the arrival of the latest and greatest Live Small Town magazine! The paper is shiny, the photography is beautiful, and the anticipation of who we shone a light on is thrilling. Many folks tell us they have kept every copy since we started the mag just over four years ago. The content is evergreen and is a 100
percent local Smörgåsbord of community building. Our team of advertising partners and creative folks are proud of this, and we look forward just as much as you do to discovering all that is uniquely fabulous in Ontario’s southwest. Some readers have questioned if we are afraid of running out of content. Not even possible!
There are so many people doing extraordinary things here. The biggest problem we find is that most local lovelies are modest and don’t blow their horns. Good Lord, blow away! People are chomping at the bit to support you, including us at Live Small Town magazine. Additionally, our magazine may be popular, but our social media communities are continually buzzing with readers who can’t seem to get enough of us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Here are just a few posts we thought we would share.
Every issue I discover amazing, new to me gems in our beautiful small town communities! This spring, I found Cravings by Brittany in Cayuga. Oh, tonnes of people messaged me telling me Brittany had created a one-of-kind experience of locally inspired deliciousness, but I kept running out of daylight to visit... Until now! Besides offering freshly made, artisanal sweet treats and beautiful, stop you in your tracks coffee, her shop is a one-stop shop for local treasure shopping, plus she is giving away our latest magazine! 2,587 People Reached, 433 Engagements, 39, 12 Comments, 26 Shares 18 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
LOCAL PRIDE
Congratulations to Team Canada and the City of Brantford’s Erika Polidori on winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2021! This is Canada’s first-ever medal in softball at the Olympic Games! Erika Polidori, is also a 29-year-old nurse at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, Ontario!
2,041 People Reached, 302 Engagements, 247, 6 Comments, 15 Shares
Charles and Margaret Juravinski Photo by Brent Perniac brentperniacphoto.com
HALDIMAND GEM
A Portrait of an artist
James Albert from Alché Design Co. Mount Pleasant alchedesign.com I discovered my love for woodworking at a young age. Inspired by my father, a carpenter, I began building toy swords, bird boxes, etc. In 2010, I restored a century home and, in the process, salvaged much of its heritage by transforming old wooden floors and cabinets into unique pieces of furniture. I had found my passion and established Alché Design Co. Inspired by my love for the outdoors, Alché Design Co. is committed to sustainable woodworking. All our furniture and accessories – from harvest tables, live edge benches, wood installations, bars and charcuterie boards – are built using 100% FSC Ontario Hardwood or locally salvaged lumber. 4,462 People Reached, 452 Engagements, 162, 23 Comments, 25 Shares
A life of inspiring generosity!
Burger Barn Ohsweken burgerbarn.ca They’re known for their amazing gourmet burgers that are always served with a surprising twist. Their southern-style comfort food is sure to satisfy any appetite. They offer daily specials and all-day breakfast. If you bring the whole family there will be something for all.
Today marks the second anniversary since Charles, and Margaret Juravinski announced their $100-million legacy gift. We thank them for the profound impact they have had on healthcare and health research. Join us in celebrating the #JuravinskiLegacy Learn more at: juravinskiresearchinstitute.ca
5,234 People Reached, 383 Engagements, 73, 19 Comments, 13 Shares
1,126 People Reached, 101 Engagements, 44, 32 Comments, 15 Shares
SIMPLY delicious burgERS!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 19
Change Makers
Sometimes it’s the little day-to-day efforts that go unrecognized that end up having the biggest impact in our lives. Here are just a few who made a difference.
Life is hard, but it is wonderful too. Thirty-six years ago, I was diagnosed with Leukemia, and I was told that I had two weeks to live without treatment. I had four and a half years of chemotherapy, and I was bald for five years. My mom held my hand through many lumbar punctures (needles in the spine), bone marrow tests (think of a corkscrew pulling bone out of your hip), chemo through a catheter in my chest (two tubes hanging out of my chest for two years) and a whole lot of throwing up. But I would not change a thing. My parents became my best friends, and my pharmacist became my spouse. I was also told that I could never have children, but I have the most wonderful son a mom could ever have. Life is hard, but it is wonderful too. xo Sheena Riley-Marini United Church Minister
Lunch for two
“Does Katie have a bike”? When I was a little girl, I lived in a small home with my four siblings, four cousins, and three adults for a short time. We did not have much, and I felt like I was blending into the pealing and yellowed wallpaper. I was simply invisible. One day someone anonymously called my mum and asked, “Does Katie have a bike”? I didn’t. None of us did. We just did not have the money. Shortly after the call, a beautiful, brand new blue banana seat bike showed up at our front door. It glistened. It was only mine, and I was so proud of it. I washed it every day and loved it so much. Although I was a young child, it was not lost on me that someone thought I was special. I did not blend into the wallpaper after all. It also made me feel responsible for being someone good, kind and special. I often think of that person. Whoever they were. I wonder what kind of person I would have been without them, and I wonder if they realize that the gift they gave me changed my life and kept on giving to others. Kate Sharrow Publisher of Live Small Town Magazine 20 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
When I was in my late teens and away at university, I felt a bit homesick and hungry as I had already spent my small grocery budget partying with new friends. I went out for a walk and stopped to sit on a bench near the park behind my home. A poor-looking older lady came and sat beside me. She had brought a lunch with her to enjoy in the park while watching children play. “Are you hungry?” She asked me. I couldn’t believe my ears. “You can have some if you want. I have two sandwiches with me. We can share.” She said. It took several seconds for me to respond. There she was, short of breath after her long walk to the park, looking like she had less to spare than I and still ready to share her lunch with me—a stranger. Thirty years later, my heart is still filled with warmth for her as I write this. This woman introduced sweet kindness to me. I realized there on that bench that it is not necessary to be rich to see and be generous to those in need. Kindness truly matters. Simon Jordan We all need to recognize that simple kindness is like a pebble thrown in the water. Its effects continue to reverberate in the lives around us. We would love to share your stories if only to break down barriers and inspire others to open their hearts.
Your support
helps enable specialized health care for patients from across this region.
DONATE TODAY Visit hamiltonhealth.ca or call 905-522-3863
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 21
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Home Grown
Behind every good person, there has usually been some good food. At Live Small Town, we’d like to celebrate both by highlighting the best local foods and recipes around while introducing you to the creative and talented people who make them possible. From innovative techniques and ingredients to updated twists on some of our old favourites, this is your one-stop-shop for everything food, family and fellowship. After all, every food journey starts with a single bite.
PHOTO BY Marc Douglas - marcdouglas.ca
“Growing food was the first activity that gave us enough prosperity to stay in one place, form complex social groups, tell our stories, and build our cities.” Barbara Kingsolver
Chef Rich Francis wants his traditional approach to food to heal and raise awareness about indigenous culture and our history. BY kerstein mallon
Have you noticed the culinary world is bursting with new ideas? These days dining is an adventure. New recipes with unusual ingredients command attention and demand consideration. There’s no shortage of creations, but each success lies in the ambrosial combination, how the flavours and textures come together in a savoury embrace. Liberated from the confines of yesterday’s fine dining rules, this new crop of chef-driven experiences has shifted from the usual mundane eateries that defined the scene for decades to a more “head to tail” rustic experience. Many chefs have evolved back to their
roots. Hailing from the wild terrains of The NorthWest Territories, Chef Rich Francis is stripping the white linen off tables in trade for a more authentic experience. His natural approach to food, integrating old-world ways with new ideas, offers a more vibrant and interesting feast than we’ve seen in some time. His perspective simply put, “the relationship between survival and intuition are interconnected,” and this chef wants his traditional approach to food to heal and raise awareness about indigenous culture and our history. Chef Rich began his culinary journey at the Stratford Culinary School. He graduated top of his class and being a finalist on “Top Chef Canada.” He is forging his cultural identity by cooking to reconcile. He has travelled to remote regions of Canada to learn the teachings of the elders and is translating indigenous
hospitality through cooking. He is working towards relinquishing the food model of today that is rooted in colonialism. This chef cares deeply about understanding native culture and it is his obsession is to get that perfect balance every time. His recipes take inspiration from the land. Foraging Herbs and spices from remote regions of Canada to the south of the equator. He turns to proteins and produce sourced uncompromisingly from these locales and in lockstep with the seasons into the most unique and appealing meals. He interprets modern Canadian cuisine precisely as he pleases, using elements from his roots, world travels, and ancestors’ kitchens. He made up for lost time, preparing dishes that understand the importance of sharing — a balance of approachable and natural — and that learning from our history is never dated.
By asking the question, “how do I make this relevant and exciting?” He has created a unique dining experience. His focus is to change the way people view Native Food. While Bannock and Corn Soup are tasty, he says, his idea predates colonial influences. He has created a oneof-a-kind outdoor dining experience. The Seventh Fire Dinner, named after an Anisninabe prophecy about life on Turtle Island, is held on the Six Nations of the Grand River. He serves meals that include moose and deer meat, Sturgeon, whale, and locally sourced herbs and plants. Guests from all over Canada have attended this event, and future plans are already being made with the local Aboriginal tourism board. He also runs a catering business with a modern spin that makes him competitive. Destination Dining Services caters to an adventurous palette. Each of his 5-course meals receives flavour injections from carefully selected seasonal ingredients, greens and herbs such as saskatoon berries, dandelion root and pungent preserved-rhubarb bone-warming stock made from Narwhal, or smoky musk ox prosciutto or the three sisters ratatouille. His creativity and his connection with the land allow him to elevate everything he touches. He triggers food memory with his creations. This is one chef you need to watch. By being in rhythm with the land and sharing his heart song, sharing in his creations will, at least for a moment, harmonize us with our roots. And that is a delicacy!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 23
Jan’s Tasty Road Trips
Our ever-growing food scene just keeps expanding. This has foodies in larger cities pretty envious, making this their choice food destination. BY Spicy Jan With newfound time in 20/21, I reinvented Tasty Road Trips into three distinctive spokes in my culinary tourism wheel. The last spoke to evolve has been the Explore Local Tasting Box.
This monthly subscription box is custom curated for subscribers and tour guests. They experience the tastes of local sourced direct from farmers, chefs, food creators and bakers. Yes, you read it
right! Tasty Road Trip Tours has always focused on food tours directly to the source and is now ALSO in the Explore Local Tasting Box. Each month I travel southwest Ontario to meet the makers. These people are passionate and committed to small-batch quality production. I am proud to have such a strong following of food enthusiast subscribers who celebrate local food sourcing. We deliver tasting boxes coast to coast, and every month we meet virtually to talk all things food and meet the makers of the month. Read along as I introduce
you to some of our talented tasting box food creators. Jan loves curating tour experiences to tempt the senses with local food and beverages. Email hello@ tastyroadtrips.com or visit tastyroadtrips.com.
Explore Local Tasting Box. Spicy Jan did the gut-busting work for you and distilled
it down this issue to recommend these five absolute must-try locally produced gems.
Nuts To You Nut Butter Paris Waiting for me to unlock its secret is that all-natural Almond Butter in my refrigerator. Nuts to You Nut Butter has been quietly manufacturing nut and seed butters for over 30 years in Paris and shipping their all-natural butters nationally. Since making a connection with NTYNB, I have been introducing the tastes, recipes and stories of NTY in the Explore Local Tasting Box. June featured Rainforest Butter with Cashews, Hazelnuts & Coconut, and July featured the Sunflower Seed Butter. Subscribers are pleased to learn of the importance NTY puts on building relationships with their growers worldwide.
Fifth Harvest Co. Vanessa Attention healthy chocolate lovers. If you are in search of local dark and milk chocolate that packs in good-foryou wellness and creamy tastes, enter Fifth Harvest Co. and their Ginseng Chocolate. It is the first of its kind coming out of Norfolk County. This field-to-table handcrafted chocolate is made with 9% Norfolk Ontario Ginseng and brings all the traditional properties of good health & vitality to their chocolate. Fifth Harvest Co. uses the fifth-year Ginseng root and harvests it for their chocolate. Fifth Harvest Co. Dark Ginseng Chocolate was featured in the July Explore Local Tasting Box.
24 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Barrie’s Asparagus Cambridge barriesasparagus.com There’s a familiarity with this local biz and asparagus is just the tip of the stalk. After a trip up Trusler Road, I was giddy with agri-tourism glee to find the sign directing me to Cedardale Farm, home of Barrie’s Asparagus. This working farm uses the original homestead as their farm store, and it is a food enthusiast’s dream. Asparagus Pesto, Salsa, Antipasto, and Gnocchi plus Chia Chips, Nacho Chips, Pasta, and so much more. Who knew asparagus could be so much more than just drizzled in cheese sauce. Our July Explore Local Tasting Box featured their Smokey Antipasto and Chia Chips.
Lidz.Cinabunz Brantford Lidz. This household name is tempting the senses of baked goods lovers and is stirring things up in the cinnamon bun aisle. As entrepreneurs who fell into their passion of creating ‘cinabunz’ this dynamic duo are as sweet as their bunz and everyone wants to sink their teeth into a 6-pack of their microbakery goodness. The flavours are luxurious, Blueberry Cheesecake, Sticky Toffee, Lemon Raspberry and, of course, the Classic makes it a challenge to return to the original cinnamon bun taste we once desired. Lidz are sold from Hamilton to Oakland and were featured in the June Explore Local Tasting Box.
Supporting local food production is so much healthier for people. It’s better for the local economy, and it’s a lot of fun. Jack Johnson
Laura Raes Caramel Elora lauraraes.ca I’ve always been a caramel lover. I love that butterscotch chew as it coats my palate and creates a memory of homemade candies. Finding that perfect chew in a caramel sauce is no easy feat, yet one lovin’ spoonful of Laura Raes and the memories came flooding back. I kept seeing the bold turquoise label on Instagram and wondered, “how good could it be.” It didn’t take long for the box from Elora to arrive, and I knew Laura Raes was a must in the Explore Local Tasting Boxes. In May, we featured the Caramel Sauce & June, the individually wrapped Caramels. Life is just too short not to enjoy it by the spoonful.
LOCAL EATS & TREATS. Here are just a few other locally produced foods that are on
my radar for future boxes. Reach out and let us know your fave!
1 Wally Parr Sausages, Caledonia, Burlington, Hamilton, Guelph wallyparr.ca 2 Frito Lay Canada, Ancaster fritolay.com 3 Jensen Cheese, Simcoe jensencheese.ca 4 Rudy’s, Dundas rudyscantfail.com 5 My Sweet Sweet World, Hagersville mysweetsweetworld.com 6 Steve’s Tea Co., Brantford steves-tea-company.business.site 7 Schep’s Bakeries Stroopwafels, Norwich schepsbakeries.com 8 The Olive Oil Co., Brantford theoliveoilcompany.ca 9 Norfolk BBQ, norfolk-bbq.com 10 Le Chocolat du Savoie, Brantford lechocolatdusavoie.com 11 The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise, Paris therawcarrot.com 12 Early Bird Coffee, Woodstock earlybirdcoffee.ca 13 Norton Farms, Hagersville nortonfarms.com 14 Nerd Teas, Woodstock nerdteas.ca 15 Chocolate Sensations, Ancaster, Paris chocolatesensations.ca 16 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Woodstock gunnshillcheese.ca 17 Pierogi Me!, Ancaster pierogime.ca 18 Brant Flour Mills, Scotland brantflourmills.com. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 25
Simply Delicious Dishes Healthy living isn’t as hard as you may think.The region has so much to offer to support healthy living and eating.
Photography by Nicole VanQuaethem
BY Nicole VanQuaethem I think it is safe to say that a good chunk of you reading this article are either working from home or just home more generally, or things have changed in the workplace. And maybe you have noticed that your routine is a bit off, you might feel a little sluggish, and you’re struggling to get creative in your kitchen. Instead of focusing on the negative, I want to challenge you to take this time to focus on yourself through proper nutrition, movement, and lifestyle. With that being said, this is new territory for everyone, so it’s essential to be kind to yourself, don’t set crazy high expectations, and just do what feels good for your body. I want to focus on creating nourishing meals. One of the main things I personally found to be a struggle from day one was going
to the grocery store less. I don’t want to stereotype nutritionists, but let’s be real, we eat a lot of fresh produce, so bi-weekly grocery shopping trips have forced me to get creative in the kitchen. This may also be true for some of you, or you may be finding yourself cooking a lot more meals from home, which is actually great. Although I am all for balance and love going out to eat, I feel so much better when I cook from home more often, and you likely will too!
Second, create a rough menu plan. During the last few months, I have made my menu plans based on each night’s protein option. Every other night we have animal protein for dinner, and the alternative nights we have something plant-based. This helps with grocery shopping and also extending our meals over a couple of weeks. I also plug it into my calendar to know what I need to cook or take out of the freezer. Third, I recommend you to buy produce that lasts a bit longer. For example, I find it helpful to eat my salad greens in the first week and buy more hearty vegetables to make quick meals such as squash, cauliflower and potatoes. Next, I want to quickly focus on your routine. First and foremost, I encourage you to go to bed and wake up
simultaneously, even if you work from home. Then, allow yourself to have a nourishing breakfast, maybe get some movement in, and wind down at the end of the day. This will help with energy levels and staying productive. Although I am not someone who thinks it’s necessary to hit the gym every day, moving your body daily is essential. This can be a quick 10-minute workout, a walk, yoga, or something more intense like running. Can’t go to your local gym yet? There are so many free online workouts that don’t require equipment, and if you are able, there is nothing like a good trail run or walk. This will also help boost your mood and energy. And while we are talking about energy, make sure you are staying hydrated, getting consistent sleep, and keep moving your body.
A few of my top tips First, stock your pantry with staples with things like tomato sauce, pasta, canned tuna, and lots of chickpeas, lentils and black beans. I also like to make sure some grains on hand like quinoa and rice to bulk up meals and add fibre.
Nicole VanQuaethem is a registered holistic nutritionist, culinary nutrition expert and owner of Random Wellness Co. , where she focuses on educating and empowering people to make healthy choices for themselves. She also has her masters of science in rural planning and development, where she focused most of her research on local food systems, agri-tourism, culinary tourism and food access. Nicole grew up on a farm, which inspired her studies and work in rural development in southern Ontario. By combining her passion for nutrition and local food, she teaches people to eat within the seasons and become connected to the food they eat. In her free time, she likes to spend time in the kitchen testing recipes, getting outside, and cuddling with her little dog, Chloe. randomwellnessco.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 27
Passion for Pollinators
Birds, bats, butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, small mammals, and most importantly, bees are pollinators. They are all an essential ecological survival function. Many of our local businesses and community groups embrace environmental conservation through their ventures, so let’s support them right back! BY Kate Sharrow
B’s Honey Products Brownsville beeshoney.ca This started as a small apiary to supply their woodworking business with beeswax for foodsafe finishes but quickly grew to provide various handcrafted, small-batch, honey-centred products to retail and wholesale clients, including a line of skincare products that incorporate both our beeswax and honey. Their main goal is to grow a community nourishing venture.
Rosewood Estates Winery Beamsville rosewoodwine.com Mead is the world’s oldest known alcoholic beverage, and it is made using honey, water, and yeast. It can be highly aromatic and complex, much like grape-wine. This Niagara winery and meadery is owned by Renata and Eugene Roman, whose family has been beekeepers for over 70 years. Eugene is a second-generation beekeeper who received his first hive at the age of six by his father.
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Wild North Designs Brant-Norfolk wildnorthdesigns.com Brant-Brantford Twin Valley Zoo Zookeeper Shannon Hampel’s goal was to help eliminate plastic and waste anywhere consumers go, so she started making environmentally friendly, sustainable products. Her venture has since expanded to include other like-minded artisans offering items like beeswax food wraps, reusable produce bags, beeswax candles and pottery.
Butterflyway Rangers davidsuzuki.org This past spring, the David Suzuki Foundation recruited more than 200 residents in six cities to become Butterflyway Rangers. These keen volunteers are now leading efforts to inspire others to create butterfly-friendly corridors across Canada as part of the Butterflyway Project. Their aim is to establish at least a dozen pollinator-friendly patches or neighbourhood Butterflyways in each town.
Vanessa’s Bees vanessasbees.com Put on your beekeeping suit and pop over to the apiary to have an up-close look at the world of honey bees and what it’s like to be a beekeeper. Meet Vanessa and the honey bees of Whistling Gardens in her garden apiary tour. Enjoy her tour and workshop at Long Point Eco-Adventures or adopt a hive during one of her bee school tours with Grand River Rafting. And, of course, don’t forget to savour a sweet treat.
Bishop Family Bees Paris bishopfamilybees.com This small, family-run honey operation started on the family’s porch while beekeeper Kari Raymer Bishop was on maternity leave from teaching. She wanted to produce local honey while doing her part to save the bees, so they set out together on an adventure and learned a lot along the way. They expanded extensively over the years, but last winter, they lost most of their hives and currently only have ten now.
Pollinator Garden in Aberfoyle Last fall, the County of Wellington opened the Aberfoyle Pollinator Garden in an abandoned landfill as part of their naturalization efforts. The garden includes 30 varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses, comprising 1,788 plantings. Studies suggest there is a significant decline in pollinators due to a variety of factors. This kind of project helps support these species throughout the County.
H
Field Station Delhi fieldstation.ca I am sure you have all heard of the breathtaking Cranberry Creek Gardens! Well, did you know they had a mini-farm shop where they offer flowers, herbs and a little bit of everything else to gardeners who are in search of unique local items? They have partnered with other area businesses, like Dennis’ Horseradish, Devlin’s Country Bistro and Norfolk BBQ, to create an inspiring onestop shop for delicious too.
DI
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In 1907, Dr. Charles Henry Turner discovered that honey bees see colour and patterns uniquely and that they also see different colours and discriminate among them. He believed that bees may be creating “memory pictures” of the environment to help them find their way back to their hive. This was a breakthrough discovery in the early 1900s! Over time, his researched help scientists realize that bees actually see colour on a completely different spectrum than we do.
Y U Ranch is an official Norfolk ALUS demonstration site farm.
H a m i lt o n
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Did you know...
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Honey Bee Research at the University of Guelph Guelph ses.uoguelph.ca Did you know that this university is home to almost 300 honey bee colonies? They are primarily used for research, teaching, personnel training and demonstrations. Still, their hives are also harvested for their delicious U of G Honey sweets and sold in the campus book store. The school is also known to offer a learner-centred environmental second to none in North America.
ALUS Norfolk alus.ca Norfolk County has the oldest continuously running ALUS program in Canada, starting in 2007. With over 160 farm families engaged and more than 1,300 acres enrolled in the program. They are rebuilding the natural environment via healthy and sustainable farmlands, restoring wetland habitat, planting tallgrass buffers along streams, and creating pollinator habitat among other projects.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 29
ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR LOCAL DELISH locally produced foods have countless
benefits to offer. Here are just a few local shops helping to share the love of local.
1 My Sweet Sweet World, Hagersville mysweetsweetworld.com 2 The Olive Oil Co., Brantford theoliveoilcompany.ca 3 The Dover Cheese Shop, Port Dover dovercheese.com 4 olivá market, Burford olivamarket.ca 5 Ancaster Cheese Shop, Ancaster ancastercheese.ca 6 Kristi’s Market Kitchen, Harley 7 Elberta Farms Country Market, Paris elbertafarms.ca 8 The Windmill Country Market, Mount Pleasant thewindmill.ca 9 Richardson’s Farm and Market, Dunnville richardsonsfarm.com 10 Morden’s Organic Farm Store, Dundas mordensorganicfarmstore.com 11 Little Brown Cow, Brantford 12 The Country Table, Tillsonburg countrytable.ca The Mustard Seed Co+operative Grocery, Hamilton mustardseed.coop 13 Cider Keg Farm Market, Vittoria ckfarmmarket.com 14 Bailey’s Local Foods, Waterloo baileyslocalfoods.com 15 4 Seasons Farm Shop, Simcoe 16 Cravings by Brittany Bakery, Cayuga cravingsbb.com 17 Josmar Acres, Lynden josmaracres.com 30 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Dover Cheese Shop Photo by JAY PERRY jayperry.ca
Mitchell’s Soup Company of St Thomas sold locally at The Dover Cheese Shop
Farm Feasts This partnership between farmer and chef is rooted in mutual respect for the earth and a desire to lead people to a uniquely beautiful relationship with food. BY Kate Sharrow Bravo to all of our local loving chefs who are cultivating relationships with nearby farmers. It certainly is a great way to cook and to eat. However, what is exciting is the growing trend of alfresco dinners in the gardens and vineyards that produced their ingredients. I was invited to participate in Farm Feasts 2021 in late July, and while I have enjoyed many beautiful experiences in food over the years, this one is in a class of its own. This year marks the fourth year that Chef Ken Lefebour and Jacquie Wakabayashi of Nellie James Gourmet Food To Go and Chris Krucker and Denise Trigatti of Manorun Organic Farm has hosted this multi-course event. With over 30 seasonally sourced ingredients gathered at Manorun Organic Farm, seven from other local farmers and a few of global influence, paired with an educational farm tour where we met and mingled with chubby pigs and grazing horses, it is no wonder that these evenings sell out fast. Six words. Book your tickets for 2022 now!
Farm Feasts 2021 Photos by Kate Sharrow and Nakita Krucker
Nellie James Gourmet Food To Go
Dundas nelliejames.com Tasting food prepared by Chef Ken Lefebour is a gourmet experience like no other. His menu is constantly evolving through an array of seasonally sourced, gourmet food that set its roots deeply local with a global influence. Check out his website for his exciting daily menu board, prix fixe dinners, and events and thank me later! Manorun Organic Farm
Lynden manorun.com Chris Krucker and Denise Trigatti, alongside their four children, have been farming organically here for 25 years, offering organic vegetables, dry goods, meats and freshly baked sourdough loaves from Dear Grain Breads deargrain.com. Check out their Harvest Basket CSA program, where you receive a basket of vegetables every week from mid-June to October. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 31
It is always time for a getaway? Come explore beautiful Port Dover with its never-ending collection of unique shops and gift-giving ideas. Wander through the quaint neighbourhoods of this historic harbourfront town then finish your day with a delicious culinary adventure at the Beach House restaurant and experience the unsurpassed beauty of our Lake Erie view. above all, stay safe and get ready to have an amazing new year together!
Please let us share our restaurant with its unique coastal cuisine and tropical trends in one of Ontario’s best small towns, Port Dover. 2 Walker St. Port Dover 519-583-0880
exciting Daily SPecialS 32 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
SunDay eggS Benny
unique Surf & turf
Culinary Arts
DINING GUIDE
HAGERSVILLE Main 88 Pizza Pub
88 Main St S. This place offers the best pizza around with lots of flavourful toppings on a thin crust. The bar is well-stocked with beer and spirits. With large flat screens, it is the perfect place to watch the game. JARVIS Devine’s Country Restaurant Barrel Restaurant- Simcoe. A warm, inviting atmosphere with fresh homemade Italian food, gourmet pizza, chicken, veal, seafood and gluten-free items. A casual Italian restaurant at its best. Celebrating 30 + years of great food. Dine-in, patio, takeout and delivery available. barrelrestaurant.ca
116 Talbot St E, devinesrestaurant.ca Famous for their all-day breakfast, savoury lunches and homemade desserts that are nothing short of divine. Concession Road Brewing Company
HALDIMAND COUNTY CALEDONIA Wally Parr Sausage
791 Hwy 6, wallyparrsausage.com For the last 30 years or so, Wally Parr Sausage has been something of a local institution, especially for those who can appreciate the work that goes into making a delicious sausage. Be sure to make it out to their meat-tastic retail emporium on Highway 6 in Caledonia. It boasts more than 300 items, including their famous sausages.
Photo by JAY PERRY jayperry.ca
Cayuga Shelly’s Family Dining Restaurant
1192 Kohler Rd. shellyscatering.wixsite.com/ shellysrestaurant This unique restaurant is set in a remodelled old church and quite often has live music serenading its patrons. The home-style fare is also heavenly. Twisted Lemon
3 Norton St W, twistedlemon.ca Featuring fresh, uncomplicated food. Always expect a fine dining experience but make a reservation because this place is a hot spot for flavour junkies. Be prepared for gourmet surprises.
DUNNVILLE Debb’s Cuisine On Queen
109 Queen St, debbs.ca A creative approach to flavour and presentation, Debb’s food is divine and the setting is hip with rustic elegance!
17 Talbot Street E concessionroadbrew.com Haldimand County’s first and only craft brewery that is focusing on small batch hand crafted ales and is located in an old fire hall.
Julia’s Bistro
217 Niagara St. juliasbistroandcatering.com Julia satisfies anyone’s craving for homemade Italian cooking while adding her unique style. The Minga
146 Queen St, They offer coffees, salads and sweets, many of their ingredients are organic, and sourced locally. You can’t beat their organic, fair-trade coffee for $1.80. FISHERVILLE Fisherville Hotel & Tavern
2 Erie Ave S, thetav.ca Built as a hotel for travelling salesmen in 1853, the Fisherville Hotel & Tavern remains the destination for tourists and travellers alike. Explore an amazing local craft beer selection and honest food, or stay overnight to experience history and a small-town pace on your country getaway.
NORFOLK COUNTY Normandale The Normandale Century Inn and Restaurant
2326 Front Rd, normandaleinn.com Stay for a few nights or a single meal and enjoy their licensed outdoor patio. Langton Andy’s Drive-in Restaurant
3710 Hwy 59, andysdrivein.com Norfolks only ‘50’s inspired drive-in diner that is famous for their footlongs, sundaes and Piggyback Burger, all using only quality ingredients. PORT DOVER The Beach House
2 Walker St. Great family, great food, great staff, great prices and a stunning view right on Lake Erie.Sunday brunch eggs benny is a must.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 33
Get excited about cookinG aGain
The Olive Oil Co. offers 60+ flavours of premium extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. Come in and “try before you buy” at this inspiring locally owned family business. Find delicious gift giving ideas! Gourmet delights include artisanal pasta from Italy, sweet and savoury jellies, tapenades, olives, along with beautiful locally made charcuterie boards and pottery.
358 King George Rd, Brantford 519-304-6600 Be sure to check our hours on our website before visiting.
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NE IG
David’s Restaurant
168 New Lake Shore Rd. davidsportdover.com This refined Canadian restaurant with a lake view offers an upstairs lounge with live music on weekends.
OURHOO D HB
Mustard + Relish
301 Main St, mrburger.ca If you love really good burgers, proper fries, great drinks or Beach Day Pops, heaven awaits you here.
THE NEW DELICIOUS!
The Dover Cheese Shop
307 Main St dovercheese.com The Dover Cheese Shop is a food lover’s paradise. It offers a 100 specialty artisan cheeses sourced from cheesemakers in Canada and around the world, gourmet spreads and preserves, kitchen accessories, a premium olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar, and a wide selection of handmade chocolates.
Mainly Grilled Chicken
BLT on Cheddar
Roasted Garlic Red Pepper Smash
Knechtel’s
15 Walker St, knechtelfoods.ca A Port Dover signature beach-front destination for over 50 years, serving Lake Erie perch and pickerel, burgers, foot-long hot dogs and ice cream cones. SAINT WILLIAMS Burning Kiln Winery
1709 Front Rd, burningkilnwinery.ca An amazing winery that honours local agri-heritage and the culinary bounty.
Bacon Egger on Cheddar
Western on Cheddar
Grilled Chicken Club
Field To Table Country Dining Stop by to watch the game, grab a pint, hunker down and prepare to never want to leave until you’ve eaten your way through our menu. Whether it’s our sinful pizza, our stop-your-heart sandwiches, or our lick-your-figures-clean wings, we take pride in everything we make.
SIMCOE Barrel Restaurant
131 Queensway W. barrelrestaurant.ca A warm, inviting atmosphere with fresh homemade Italian food, gourmet pizza, chicken, veal, seafood and glutenfree items. A casual Italian restaurant at its best. Celebrating 30 + years of great food. Dine-in, patio, takeout and delivery available. The Combine
352 Norfolk St S, thecombine.ca Fun, honest food built on local bounty. A fabulous handmade brick oven, garden patio and wine menu. Joy Bakery Café
126 Robinson St, joyofnorfolk.ca What an excellent place to visit with friends to drink good coffee, eat fabulous baked goods and simply relax. Locally-sourced deliciousness at its best.
88 MaIN ST S, HaGERSVILLE 905-768-4040
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TURKEY POINT The Jetty Bar & Grill
236 Ordnance Dr, thejetty.ca The Jetty is a casual eatery with a picturesque view of Lake Erie and a 150seat patio. The restaurant is open yearround with a great weekend breakfast that residents and cottagers love. Nestled between the Lynn Valley Trail and the Lynn River is a welcoming oasis offering luxury glamping and events. You can relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature while we ensure your safety and comfort.
WATERFORD Ritzy Cakes & Eatery
20 Alice St, robinsritzycakes.com A spectacular small-town bakery also serving coffees, teas, paninis, soups, Belgian waffles, breakfast and so much more. Did I mention their treats? County of Brant Harley Kristi’s Market Kitchen
Stay with people who care.
524 St. Johns Rd. E Port Dover info@homegrownhideaway.com 519-909-9851
226 Middle Townline Rd. Satisfy your cravings for local creations at Kristi’s Market Kitchen. Fruits, veggies, delicious baked goods, gift baskets and so much more. Enjoy a fresh coffee or an amazing lunch on the run.
homegrownhideaway.com Mount Pleasant Devlin’s Country Bistro & Catering
704 Mt. Pleasant Rd. devlinscountrybistro.com This former combined general store, post office and residence has been an enduring fixture in the community for over 125 years, adding Devlin’s Country Bistro in 1990. Offering contemporary Italian cuisine with a unique and delicious Californian flair.
19 holiday Drive, Brantford 519-753-8651 | toll Free 877-341-1234 bestwesternbrantford.com
St George La Cantinella Ristorante Italiano
Breakfast | lunch | Dinner Special events
PRemium eSPReSSo, Single SouRced coffee, dAilY BAked TReATS, lunch & locAllY SouRced ingRedienTS!
joyofnorfolk.ca 126 Robinson St. Simcoe 519-420-9999
519-753-6002
myrasbarandgrill.com 36 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
16 Main St, S. lacantinellastgeorge.com If you could scoop up a cup of passion and place it in a bowl you would have captured the very essence of this amazing restaurant. Each dish prepared in this inviting restaurant nestled in the heart of County of Brant is slowly simmered with heaping helpings of tradition. PARIS The Paris Wincey Mills Co
31 Mechanic St, winceymills.ca A hub for culture, cuisine and
community, this is a one-stop tourist destination. Open year-round (ThursSat) it boasts local vendors and multiple dining options. Juniper Dining Co.
3 Elm St, juniperdiningco.ca Inspired by French bistros and Lyonnaise bouchon cuisine, this modern restaurant marries quality local and seasonal ingredients with inventive cocktails, local beers and carefully chosen wines to create memorable experiences, time and time again. Stillwaters Plate & Pour
61 Grand River St N. stillwatersplateandpour.ca A globally-inspired menu created by Chef William Thompson of Food Network’s Top Chef Canada, coupled with a breathtaking rooftop patio leaves nothing to be desired.
unforgettable food+drink experiences Book your Spring/Summer walking or driving Self-Guided Tasting Experience at tastyroadtrips.com serving southwestern ontario contact spicy Jan at hello@tastyroadtrips.com
The Cobblestone Pub
111 Grand River St N. cobblestonepub.ca This laid-back, old-time watering hole features a menu of gourmet versions of pub favourites and is a mainstay for neighbours and visitors alike. SIX NATIONS of the grand river TERRITORY Ohsweken Burger Barn
3000 4th Line, burgerbarn.ca They’re known for their amazing gourmet burgers that are always served with a surprising twist. Their southern-style comfort food is sure to satisfy any appetite. They offer daily specials and all-day breakfast. If you bring the whole family there will be something for all. Village Cafe 1875 Fourth Line, If you are near Oshweken be sure to go to the Village Cafe. The food is reasonably priced, delicious and the atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming. If you are looking for something traditional, the corn soup is a must. BRANTFORD Myra’s Bar & Grill
19HolidayDr, myrasbarandgrill.com Located at the amzing Best Western
Featuring handcrafted goods from local artisans to retro candy and everything in between. Be sure to check out our new Retro Room featuring vintage inspired clothing and home decor. #LifesTooShortForBoringGifts
Since 1974, our Farm Market and Garden Centre has provided nutritious fruits, vegetables along with an array of fantastic locally produced items. Attention to soil ecology and our environment has always been part of our family’s core values.
Big enough to serve you, small enough to care!
FArM MArket & GArden Centre
568 Lynden Road, Lynden 519-647-2025 31 Norfolk St N Simcoe
josmaracres.com
slothsandmolasses.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 37
Brantford Hotel & Conference Centre, hotel guests and locals enjoy chic ambiance, friendly staff and awardwinning food. The Olive Oil Co
358 King George Rd, Brantford Offering over 50 flavours of premium olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar (with a tasting bar), they also stock an array of other gourmet delights and gift-giving ideas, including gluten-free goodies, pastas, and more. Cafe Andreou
104 West St Fine dining in an 1865 home with Italian and continental cuisine. Enjoy exquisite food with hospitality at its finest. Elements Casino Brantford
Random Wellness Co. is dedicated to helping empower people to make healthy choices for themselves and create long-term and sustainable goals and changes.
randomwellnessco.com shoprandomwellness.com @randomwellnessco Let’s work torgether
InspIre Create MotIvate visit out website and social media to check out all that we offer! 33 Norfolk St. N. Simcoe artwIthheartstudIo.Ca
226-567-5500
the freshest food with the friendliest service 131 Queensway W, Simcoe
519-426-0068
40 Icomm Dr, elementscasinobrantford.com Table games, slots, a poker room and great shows draw people to this venue and the great breakfast, lunch and dinner menu keeps them coming back! Oxford County ingersoll The Olde Bakery Cafe
120 Thames St S. theoldebakerycafe.com Offering healthy breakfast and lunch options with an array of tasty, not-sohealthy pastries — just like grandma used to make! Tillsonburg d’Lish Kitchen Cafe
518 Broadway #1 dlishkitchencafe.ca A hearty diner creating tasty food for health-concious bodies. From chickpeas to kombucha, your belly will thank you. Woodstock sixthirtynine
639 Peel St, sixthirtynine.com Offering an amazing, ever-changing, locally-sourced seasonal menu, a lovely patio and an elegant dining experience, sixthirtynine has become a destination restaurant for the region and beyond. Tandoori Knight
Patio • Dine-In • Delivery • Catering • Take-Out
www.barrelrestaurant.ca 38 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
511 Dundas St, tandooriknight.ca If you love Indian food, this is a muststop place to eat. Everything is flavourful and fresh and the portions are always generous.
Ancaster Ancaster Mill
548 Old Dundas Rd, ancastermill.com Situated beside a creek with a large dining room built out overlooking the falls and boasting menus that highlight the best of the season’s local and organic products. Don’t miss their Champagne Sun brunch. Brewers Blackbird Brewery and Kitchen
375 Wilson St E, brewersblackbird.ca Say goodbye to the old and welcome in the new! Formally the beloved Rousseau House, this revamped restaurant is now serving up laidback dishes like wood fired pizza and plenty of house-brewed local craft beer. The community is thrilled to experience and enjoy Ancaster’s craft brewery.
a t r e b l E s m r Fa
et k r a M Country
Proudly Serving Our Community Local Farm Fresh Ontario Produce
The Olive Board Charcuterie & Wine Bar
220 Wilson St E, Ancaster and 376 Winston Rd, Grimsby theoliveboard.com A charcuterie and wine bar that brings good food, wine and friends together in a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. Dundas Detour Roaster’s Cafe
41 King St W, detourcoffee.com Gourmet roasts from around the world prepared as a pour-over, as well as coffees of the day, espressos, a range of teas and a light, delectable bistro menu.
353 Governors Rd East, Paris 519-752-2047 elbertafarms.ca Your One Stop for Local LocaL. InternatIonaL. DeLIcIous.
local • seasonal • comfortable • creative
Celebrate the Everyday
India Village
Dundas: 100 King St. W. Ancaster: Wilson St. E. fineindiancuisine.ca If you love Indian food, you’ll be spoiled for choice as India Village has two locations. Try the korma shahi, with its rich and creamy coconut-drenched vegetables and the butter naan is out of this world. A variety of gluten-free and vegan meals are also available. Thirsty Cactus Cantina & Grill
2 King St E, thirstycactus.ca Whet your whistle with one of their amazing 24 beer taps, enjoy an inspired Southwest menu, and of course a super friendly and fun atmosphere!
prepared meals Meals to go, soups, desserts+ local & InternatIonal food Vegan, gluten free, sauces, anti pesto, preserves, oils and dressings, Sauces, BBQ + local makers & decor Decor, fashion, health & beauty, sustainable, woodwork, candles +
352 Norfolk St S, Simcoe 226-440-3369
thecombine.ca
check out olivá market digital events on social media & their website!
Quatrefoil Restaurant
6 Sydenham St. quatrefoilrestaurant.com Quatrefoil Restaurant has been offering one of the finest dining experience since opening in May of 2010.
@theolivamarket 114 King st. e. Burford 226-659-2000
olivamarket.ca
Let the people eat! 301 Main St., Port Dover 519-583-3337
mrburger.ca
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 39
Never before has community been more important, and these individuals are actively bringing us all closer together.
Written by Emmalee Nother West End. Still, Rubyyy’s unabashed, passionate attitude enabled them to reach that goal and many others, experiencing far more than theatre. From a young age, Rubyyy aspired to be a writer, performer and dancer. All of those dreams came to life in the UK, where they not only discovered more of their craft but discovered who they truly were, especially in the world of cabaret and burlesque. Rubyyy is a queer burlesque icon, inviting everyone of any gender, ability, body and background to dance, draw and perform while taking part in one of their many dance and life-drawing classes. While living in the UK, they performed all over Europe, and discover the most ausometimes in places where thentic version of yourself. the population wasn’t as Born and raised in Paris, open-minded or accepting Ontario, Rubyyy has spent of the fluidity of gender, the last 15 years in the United sexuality and self-discovKingdom, sinking their toes ery. The beauty of Rubyyy’s into the wondrous, wild dance classes are that they world of showbiz. When they are made for everyone and first arrived, the goal was to exclude no one. It may not perform on London’s version be your cup of tea at first, of Broadway, the illustrious but it quickly becomes your
Home; it’s where we hang our hats at the end of a long day, it’s where we go to be with the ones we love, and it’s where we can most authentically be ourselves. Home is also the towns, cities, and places that we live and the people that we Who doesn’t love a good neighbour? One you can chat with, have over for dinner or trust to look after your cat and collect your mail while you’re away? Some neighbours become like family over the years, while others are a little harder to know outside the odd wave or shared smile in passing. Maybe your nearest neighbour lives not just over the fence but also a kilometre or more down the road. Even in this day and age of social media, it’s easy not to know who lives across the street or next door. Don’t feel bad if you don’t know who your neighbours are or what they do. Instead, sit back, put your feet up and give this article a read because while you might not know it, some of your neighbours are integral members of our small towns, running businesses while still going about their daily lives just like you and me. However, this article isn’t so much about their businesses or jobs as it is about them. Who they are, what drives them and how they came to be where they are. So join me in saying, “Hello!” to a few of our neighbours. Let’s get to know them a little better.
Rubyyy Jones Paris linktr.ee/RubyyyJones Rubyyy Jones is a vibrant, vivacious, voluptuous creative performer who has built a positive, safe space for self-expression and self-exploration. A community to love who you are, free your mind, move your body
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shot of whisky. There are no counts, no technical jargon or body shaming in their performances. It’s all about you being comfortable to express yourself through movement and music. Rubyyy is a creature who tantalizes their audiences with pleasure, acceptance and attitude, embracing their truest self and encouraging you to do the same. Their performances are fun, wild, entertaining and full of unbridled spunkiness and sparkle. A powerful and provocative Scorpio, Rubyyy knows the energy you put into the universe is often returned. The dream that they continue to work toward is having a residency in Las Vegas. Through the power of pure passion and energetic manifestation, Rubyyy will no doubt land themself there and will continue to be a shining star and ferocious force in the Queer community. In early 2021, Rubyyy and their partner returned to Paris as Rubyyy continues to discover and create who they are. You can join them in one of their dance, burlesque, or life drawing classes to experience just how they enable you to become the best, most confident and fun version of yourself that you have ever aspired to be.
Photo by Eddie Adams
Meet your Neighbours
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 41
Tara Shannon Hagersville tarashannonwrites.com Imagine losing your job, splitting up with your partner, going through a miscarriage, losing both of your parents and a cancer diagnosis within mere years of each other. It takes unbelievable strength and grace to make it through one of those things. Still, Tara Shannon went through all of it, and through her struggles, she created two characters that have inspired and uplifted millions of people around the world.
Rabbit & Bear was created in 2019, after a particularly dark chapter of Tara’s life. Living in the town of Hagersville and without a job, she tapped into her love of writing. She had an idea that she could draw a rabbit with little inspirational messages to accompany the illustrations. There was no rhyme or reason to what she created, but it was a healing method for her. Sharing anecdotes of Rabbit’s adventures on social media, it was clear people resonated with Rabbit. Rabbit would occasionally be
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drawn with other animal and plant friends. Still, one character seemed to pull on the heartstrings a little more than others, and that was Bear. Come March 2020, we were headed into the unknown as the pandemic reared its nasty head. Many people were feeling anxiety for the first time. Tara knew that feeling all too well and shared one of her illustrations of Rabbit & Bear. It perfectly explained how anxiety feels and that sometimes all we need is someone to be with us in the moment. Soon people were reaching
out, telling her that they were seeing her illustration everywhere, thousands were reposting to their own pages and groups - Rabbit & Bear had gone viral. Now with over 56,000 followers on Facebook and some posts online reaching over a million views, Rabbit & Bear were famous. Through triumph and turmoil, Tara had created something that was helping others heal through the pandemic while also healing herself. Now 8 years cancer-free, she has a published book titled ‘Rabbit & Bear Make a Wish’ that can be found at your local Indigo and book two will make its debut this fall! A dream of Tara’s is to have her books integrated into an educational curriculum. The Autism Society of America and the US Federal Prison System have reached out to Tara, saying that they use Rabbit & Bear to help those in their systems to understand emotions and mental health. Tara is a compassionate, resilient woman who cares deeply about helping others through her illustrations. If you know anyone struggling with the ups and downs of life, Rabbit & Bear is a friendship that can guide them through their journey.
ralphys retreat Photos by Sharon Canovas Photography @scanovasphotography and Kara Burrow ralphysretreat.ca
Ralphy’s Retreat Animal Sanctuary St Williams ralphysretreat.ca Nestled in the small town of St.Williams is a remarkable sanctuary that is run by Kara Burrow, a woman with an astoundingly big heart and a passion for helping animals in need. Founded in 2003, it wasn’t until 2010 that they brought in pigs. In 2013, Kara welcomed a piglet named Ralphy to the sanctuary. Through Ralphy, Kara learned of the world of pot-bellied pigs and how many were bought as pets. These wee piglets would eventually grow to be full size, only to be abandoned
by those who no longer could care for an adult pig. Throughout Ralphy’s life, he had made a huge impression on Kara and Ralphy’s Retreat was born in his honour. Today, the Retreat is home to many animals, including horses and Highland cows, but is mostly dedicated to caring for sweet pot-bellied pigs who spend their days rooting and rolling in the dirt. Kara runs the not-forprofit business herself with help from a small team a few days a week composed of dedicated volunteers and students. It is a place of love, hope and peace not only for the animals in Kara’s magnificent care but for those
who visit the farm and take a moment to be with the pigs in their impeccable habitats. They lovingly run to you, rub up against you, and often roll right over for a belly rub! These oinking bundles of love warm your soul with how content and carefree they are. It’s impossible to leave without feeling completely overwhelmed with happiness. While Ralphy’s is a private sanctuary located on Kara’s own property, they offer sanctuary tours where the proceeds go into caring for the animals. The pandemic has been particularly taxing on the sanctuary as it’s run solely on donations from
generous donors and the surrounding community. With prices skyrocketing for food and care, including veterinary bills and a lack of local vet services, plus the added need for more animals to be rescued, the phenomenal demand for support is at an alltime high. While the thought of not being able to care for these animals often weighs heavy on Kara’s heart due to the high need for more funding, she puts the animals in her care first and does whatever it takes to ensure these animals, who are like her children, have everything they need to live long, healthy, happy lives on the land and in her care. Ralphy’s Retreat is a staple in the community and is giving hundreds of animals the opportunity to live extraordinary lives. If you would like to support Ralphy’s Retreat, you can find them on Facebook and Instagram - @ralphysretreat and online at ralphysretreat.ca.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 43
Staycation Destination
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There’s a certain enchanting feeling when wandering through local small towns and villages with the anticipation of warmer days buzzing in the air. An echo of the past quietly hums in the background as you take in the landmarks that have lasted through centuries. Skipping through the shops one by one, you get a sense of how mercantile life once was and how it’s making a triumphant return. 3 1
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Local Delicious. Nationally recognized and respected leaders in
food processing makes it easy to wet your whistle because they’re local!
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1 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Woodstock gunnshillcheese.ca 2 Dennis’ Horseradish, Delhi dennishorseradish.com 3 UHTCO Corporation, Ancaster uhtco.com 4 Phlippens Smoked Sauce, Kitchener phlippens.com 5 Picard Peanuts, Windham, Arva, Morriston, Font Hill, Fort Erie, Woodstock picardpeanutsltd.ca 6 Udderly Ridiculous, Bright udderlyridiculous.ca 7 The Raw Carrot | Peeling for Change, Paris therawcarrot.com 8 Seventh Coffee Company, Brantford seventhcoffeecompany.com 9 The Olive Oil Co., Brantford theoliveoilcompany.ca 10 Wally Parr Sausages, Caledonia, Burlington, Hamilton, Guelph wallyparr.ca 11 Brant Flour Mills, Scotland brantflourmills.com 12 Early Bird Coffee, Woodstock earlybirdcoffee.ca 13 VG Meats, Simcoe, Stoney Creek vgmeats.ca 14 Fifth Harvest Co., Waterford 15 Florcita’s Classic Latin Foods, Brantford florcitas.ca 16 Luke’s Tortilla Chips, Almer mckechniefoods.com 44 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
SIP & SAVOUR. From vintage wines to microbreweries, unique
Ramblin’ Road Brewery Farm photo by Jay Perry jayperry.ca
IPAs and lagers, there is so much deliciousness to sip and savour in southwestern Ontario’s booming wine, beer, spirit and cider scene. Our hard-working team has raised a few glasses to selflessly lend a hand and create suggestions to accompany a delicious meal, a small gathering or event this year, but we ran out of space and sadly could not include everyone. This is just a starting point for you to explore the fresh and distinctive flavours our area has to offer.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 45
Puddicombe House, New Hamburg
Merchant logo Nith Valley Apiaries New Hamburg
Land & Ross Antiques, Shakespeare
SIX DEGREES OF Punkeydoodles Corners Come with us, again and again, as we explore the wonder of being a tourist in our own backyard! BY Sandy Marincic When we were boys, our two greatest heroes were Superman and Tarzan. Superman had superpowers, but Tarzan was just a regular guy who did super things. Any one of us was a potential Tarzan - this crazily fueled our 7-yearold imaginations. My dad explained that “Tarzan” was actually a real guy called Johnny Weissmuller. A swimmer who won five Olympic gold medals never lost a race and saved many people from drowning, including 11 after a 1927 boat accident. But to us, these truths were nothing compared to him being “the real Tarzan.” In 1962 we learned that Tarzan was touring swimming pools across North America, including Hamilton’s Parkdale Pool. We were beside ourselves, but as we watched our hero walkout, there was no loincloth, no Jane, no Boy, no Cheetah. He wore a pale blue blazer and a white turtle-neck, pants, and shoes - and he was old! Imagination and reality battled - it was Tarzan and Johnny Weissmuller, and they were both old. How could my hero be all those things at once? Yet when he reached down, shook my hand, and gave me my autographed Tarzan picture, I came to see my dad’s perspective. I learned that “it’s what’s inside that counts” because Johnny Weissmuller still carried his Tarzan within him – I saw it in his eyes. The COVID-19 pandemic has similar lessons, showing the value of deeper perspectives grounded in the willingness to believe, the power of the imagination, and hearts that make us whole. I have travelled through 34 countries, yet some of the most fascinating places are around here. That’s because they tickle my imagination. Who wouldn’t 46 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
be charmed by Punkydoodles Corners or Dogs Nest? So last month, I set out on my motorcycle, Olivia, to ride a loop of these magical places. Because I rode, I smelled, saw, and felt a lot more than if I had driven - staying safe forces riders to turn their senses to “eleven” (like Spiderman). I parted the cool morning air on my way to Dog’s Nest. Pilgrimages demand a commitment to see what may not be physically there, and true to form, the Dogs Nest sign no longer existed. It was just the junction of Highway 6 and Concession 2, where my 20-year-old self rode his 10 speed on his way to camp at Long Point. Dogs Nest still evokes a well-loved pooch in a “fox curl,” softly sleeping and dreaming doggie dreams. I don’t need a road sign to “be there.” Now there are many paths one can take from Dogs Nest Mountain Oak Cheese, New Hamburg
Johnny Weissmuller as Tarzan
Pittock Conservation Area, Woodstock
Teeterville Pioneer Museum
to Punkydoodles Corners. I chose to ride through Teeterville. Does the town “teeter” over “something”? Were they on the brink of a momentous discovery when the town was founded? Who cares? It’s way more fun to run through the kaleidoscope of my imagination’s suggestions. The best part was that I’d never been there. Teeterville was a tidy refuge from urban life, but one that demanded its residents obey Teeterville’s unspoken
rules of conduct. By arriving without a purpose, and on Olivia no less, I hadn’t quite managed that. Two teenage girls passed by as I stood in front of the Teeterville Pioneer Museum, full of suspicion as teenage girls are wont to do. Who could blame them, really? Next, I rode a jagged route to Paris, where I sat on a bench with my ice cream to watch Parisian life unfold. I juxtaposed the French Paris against our tiny Ontario version. Different, yet similar. There are places known for what they are (Paris and Paris) and places known for what they are not. The latter describes Punkydoodles Corners, which if it were not for its name, would be nuthin’. Oh, there are stories about the name’s origin, but there is no firm verifiable record. The Ontario government Punkydoodles Corners sign is long gone. Apparently, it was so frequently stolen that they quit replacing it - who could blame them? So, I sat wistfully, with Olivia on her side stand, caressed by the gentle country breeze. Then I twisted the throttle, taking a different road to find more local delights. I’d shifted to third gear when I saw a sign in my rear-view mirror. I turned back to find that Oxford County grasped the importance of Punkydoodles Corners to we voyagers of the imagination. A new sign proclaimed “Punkydooles Corners, A Wilmot Heritage Community.” The colours were different from “normal” Ontario road signs (to make it less of a target?), but there it sits for all to pay homage to. May our imaginations keep our hearts forever strong, and may we see that as travellers in this beautiful world, adventure awaits – even on our own doorsteps.
Conjunction junction 1 Puddicombe House, New Hamburg puddicombehouse.com 2 Scran & Dram Scottish Public House, New Hamburg scrananddram.ca 3 Nith Valley Apiaries Inc., New Hamburg nithvalleyapiaries.ca 4 Mountain Oak Cheese, New Hamburg mountainoakcheese.ca 5 Shakespeare Brewing Company, Shakespeare shakespearebrewingcompany.ca 6 Land & Ross Antiques, Shakespeare landandross.com 7 Orchard Valley Spa, Shakespeare orchardvalleyspa.com 8 Harry Ten Shilling, Shakespeare harrytenshilling.com 9 Bright Cheese & Butter, Bright brightcheeseandbutter.ca 10 Oak Manor Farms Organic Mill, Tavistock oak-manor.myshopify.com 11 Tavistock Eastside Railtrail, Tavistock 12 Roth Park, Woodstock thamesriver.on.ca 13 Pittock Conservation Area, Woodstock pittockconservationarea.ca 14 Brickhouse Brewpub, Woodstock upperthamesbrewing.ca 15 Rose Maple Farms, Hickson Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 47
Revisiting Port Dover’s Golden Glow
A glamping and gulping tour of Norfolk’s best bragging rights. BY Jules Torti Growing up on the pastoral edge of Brant County, Port Dover was our closest and most coveted beach experience. It was a sensory trifecta of punky smelts, earthy Sandalmaker leather and greasy fries. The landscape was familiar and foreign with spit-polished bikes, bodies glistening with suntan oil and aggressive gulls looking for targets. A visit to Dover wasn’t complete without a poke around The Surf Shop. My sister and I would turn red-faced and snicker at Dr. Zog’s Sex Wax, completely unaware of what it might be (surfboard wax). Callahan’s (now The Beach House), with its prime sandy real estate, was synonymous with ruby Shirley Temple’s, but our thirst was reserved for the iconic Golden Glow of The Arbor. We begged for footlongs (despite never being able to finish them), fries (that we inadvertently shared with the seagulls) and a Glow. Port Dover has grown up, just as I have. The landmarks remain The Surf Shop (now with sister biz, Grand Trunk Station), The Arbor (since 1919), The Erie Beach Hotel (circa 1946), Sandalmaker (five decades strong), Knechtel’s (est.
1960) with a few newer kids on the retail block like Cabin 519, On the Fringe Leather and Village Cannabis Co. Homegrown Hideaway is a new babe too. The 17-acre glamping site is the ultimate basecamp for exploring the area. Located on the former rail line, the 10km-long Lynn Valley Trail splits through Simcoe in the opposite direction. My wife and I zipped up our tent and headed to Dover on foot. The 5km flat and verdant path hugs the river and Silver Lake— watch for sunning painted turtles, wood ducks and sqwonk-ing green herons. The knee-high maidenhair ferns, duckweed-covered ponds and weeping willows were a welcome departure from the main drag hustle. As the trail nears Dover, nosey parkers like us will love the sneak peek into the backyards that abut the trail, all manicured and pedicured with a fearless palette of perennials. Locals may be familiar with the Homegrown Hideaway property from its previous incarnation and their delicious apple cider. Jonathon Jager’s parents purchased the farm in the ‘70s. Jonathon’s wife,
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Caroline, grew up across the road (her parents still live there today). The affable couple wanted to share their sanctuary with a bigger audience and had the farm rezoned for glamping. Four tents have been erected with a vision often on the site. For the urban-weary, their rural retreat offers privacy not found at traditional campgrounds. It’s a solid dose of nature with fireflies illuminating the night sky, the chatter of kingfishers, orioles and the fireside company of a distant barn owl. The ‘g’ in glamping is supposed to represent glamorously, but Kim and I decided it really means gratitude. You get all the feels of camping (woodsmoke, toasted marshmallows) with
a real Queen bed to flop into when the embers are extinguished. The mattress was so comfortable that we actually made a note of the brand (Brick Manhattan) and noted the pleasure of not wrestling around in the confines of a sleeping bag with mosquitoes clinging to the tent walls inches above our noses. All the finery is found in the frontier-style tents at Homegrown—even robes if you want to take things one royal notch higher. In the morning, Caroline delivered a breakfast basket of local edible swag— drowsy guests can choose delivery at any time (like 10:30 am for us sleepyheads). We opted for DIY omelettes, and the basket’s bounty included a wide hand-grip of just-
picked asparagus, six brown eggs, a generous cube of butter, a brick of Jensen’s old smoked cheddar and jewel-like local strawberries. Breakfast and lunch merged as we prepped things old-school on the cast iron pan provided. Restored, we hopped in the Jeep to Long Point Eco-Adventures to pick up some liquid souvenirs from Hometown Brewing Co.’s SeaCan—here you can grab
a brew and view in one gulp. The Coconut Porter, Blueberry Saison and Lemon Ginseng create a regional 6-pack that transports the landscape of Norfolk County anywhere. In our case, that would be four hours north of the Bruce Peninsula. We added more tallboys to our take-home stock from the iconic The Blue Elephant Artisan Brewery in Simcoe. Brewmaster Sara Fritch is a two-timer fermenting for Blue Elephant (Dark n’ Stormy Black Lager, Red Devil Amber Ale, Summer Harvest Strawberry Lager) and her shiny new venture, Backyard Brewing Company (think Pumpernickel Porter and Lemon Pepper Saison). Wheeling into Picard’s for nostalgic necessity, my arms were full, and the road trip was complete. Water buffalo pepperettes, dill pickle chip nuts, dark chocolate-covered espresso beans. Check, check, check. We headed home, renewed, courtesy of Dover’s golden glow.
Jules Torti is the author of Free to a Good Home: With Room For Improvement (Caitlin Press). She is the editorin-chief of Harrowsmith magazine and writes about the best things in life (birds, burgers, beaches, beer: in no particular order) for Cottage Life, FASHION, realtor.ca’s Living Room and Grand magazine. Torti has been published in The Vancouver Sun, The Globe and Mail, Massage Therapy Canada and Coast Mountain Culture magazine. In other lives she has made breakfast for 26 chimpanzees in the Congo and illustrated colouring books for the Jane Goodall Institute and the Dian Fossey Foundation. Her second memoir, Trail Mix: 920km on the Camino de Santiago (Rocky Mountain Books) will drop this September! Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 49
in anCaster Village you Can… shoP loCal. support our local restaurants, shops and businesses that support the area where you live, work and play!
ve Dri lley Da
Wilson street east
Dining, arts & lodging
Fashion, home Décor & shopping
general services & sport
Come Join us in the Village On Wilson Street East in Ancaster, Ontario 50 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
hair, Beauty & aesthetics
healthcare & Dental
shopancastervillage.com
ve Dri ery om ntg mo
Wilson street east
municipal services, schools & Churches
Ancaster BIA
Professional services
AncasterVillage
ancaster Bia 314 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Ontario L9G 2B9 289-239-7828 Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 51
NOT-SO-SECRET GARDEN. Many of our communities boast a symphony
of flower power all year long. Here are just a few local opportunities to smell the roses, enjoy nature, take a few workshops or host a party.
1 Whistling Gardens, Wilsonville whistlinggardens.ca 2 Bonnieheath Estate Lavender & Winery, Waterford bonnieheathestate.com 3 Glenhyrst Gardens, Brantford glenhyrst.ca 4 Apple Hill Lavender, Windham Centre applehilllavender.ca 5 Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington/Hamilton rbg.ca 6 Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls niagaraparks.com 7 Cranberry Creek Gardens, Delhi lynedochgardens.ca 8 Shakespearean Gardens, Stratford stratfordgardens.com 9 Civic Garden Complex, London friendslcgc.com 10 Brantwood Farms, Brantford brantwoodfarms.com
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of ancasters
Your one-stop shopping boutique for casual, comfortable wear, natural fibre, dressy, evening wear and accessories. Sizes 2-24
SHOP ONLINE & VIEw FaSHIONS: shopkarisofancaster.com OPEN: Sat 10-5, Tues - Fri10-5:30. CLOSED: Sun-Mon 386 Wilson St E, Ancaster 905-304-5274 karisofancaster.com
Visit the Ancaster Market in the heart of Ancaster Village every Wednesday until October 6 from 3 to 7 p.m. Enjoy an array of unique produce, sweet treats, delightful merchandise and delicious eats from local eateries while listening to live music as you shop. We are looking forward to seeing you there!
shopancasterfarmersmarket.com 352 Wilson St. E., #2A, Ancaster, ON, L9G 2C2 www.ancasterlaser.ca
shopancastervillage.com
2021 Ancaster Farmers Market is located in the heart of Ancaster Village at the corner of Wilson Street East & Academy Street.
Ancaster BIA
AncasterVillage
Ancaster BIA 314 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, Ontario L9G 2B9 289-239-7828 Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 53
Go Play Outside!
Are you tired of the same old routine? Here are just a few nature-based venues to explore with kids of all ages. Long Point Eco Adventures Port Rowan lpfun.ca Luscious woodlands, miles of soft sand dunes and some of the most breathtaking wildlife you will ever see are hiding right in our backyard in Norfolk. The area is known worldwide for its bird migration, national wildlife area, and unbelievable beach views, but have you ever zip-lined
through the tree canopies? At Long Point Eco Adventures, you not only can learn about bird migration, but you can feel like one of our feathered friends. The tour puts some wind in your sails and as you speed through multiple platforms and a 40-foot rappel. You’ll be sure to feel a nice, cool breeze that will surely make you forget about the summer heat.
Fear not; if heights and channelling your inner hawk is not quite what you had in mind, there are plenty of other options to interest you. Why not jump in a kayak and experience “The Canadian Amazon.” Yes, you read that correctly. This fantastic guided tour through the Big Creek National Wildlife Area explores the allure of our
native Carolinian forests while paddling through the internationally recognized marsh and wetlands. If you’re more of an angler, they also offer a fishing paradise! Honeybee apiary tours, mushroom forays, photography workshop, axe-throwing, glamping, and food and drink experiences galore!
The Woodland Cultural Centre Brantford woodlandculturalcentre.ca The centre was established in 1972 upon the closure of the Mohawk Institute Residential School. The centre now offers excellent nature and art-based workshops that introduce families to healing and food plants and their cultural importance to these countries’ Indigenous people. Take a walking tour of the grounds and see these plants growing in their natural environment.
Hamilton area waterfall trails waterfalls.hamilton.ca Do you realize that we are surrounded by spectacular waterfalls? The rural areas around Hamilton actually have the bragging rights to being the waterfall capital of the world! With over 100 waterfalls, there is more than enough reason to explore the local region. The elevation changes that come with Niagara Escarpment, the conditions for producing stunning waterfalls are near perfect.
Snyder’s Family Farm Bright snydersfamilyfarm.com Enjoy this outdoor, physically distant farm experience with unlimited access to the animal barnyard, jumping pillows, giant peddle cart track, play areas, hayride, campfire straw jump, haunted house, and more! They also have a farm-fresh bakery that bakes from scratch with only the best ingredients. Enjoy their famous whoopee pies, cookies, gourmet butter tarts, cinnamon buns, and so mmmmmuch more!
Grand River Rafting Paris grandriverrafting.ca If you are looking for a unique Canadian paddling experience, look no further. Grand River Rafting has a diverse portfolio from guided river tours, Algonquin trips, edible hikes, Six Nation and Iroquois cultural experiences, school trips and corporate team building, kayaking, rafting, camping. Besides having a fantastic array of adventure options, these folks are all about having fun and supporting their neighbours.
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Deep Roots
We are not makers of history. We are made by history. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Living History
With the fast pace of our lives seeming to accelerate at every turn, we should all take a moment to reflect on the numerous stories, places, memories and people that have truly made Southwestern Ontario one of the greatest places on Earth. Each of our communities, counties and towns have contributed their own unique piece to the tapestry that can collectively be called Canada. There is no better way to chart a course towards the future than by glancing back to honour the past.
Call to make sure that these museums are open during Covid-19.
On the Map
Past & Present Understanding the connection between past and present is essential in our quest to possess direction.
Woodland Cultural Centre Brantford woodland-centre.on.ca Walking through the Woodland Cultural Centre, I am struck by the evidence of the strength and perseverance of Indigenous people in Canada. Opened in 1972 upon the closure of the Mohawk Residential School in 1970 and supporting the visual and performing arts, it promotes and preserves the culture and heritage of indigenous people. This museum is a walk through history.
No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum Dunnville rcafmuseum.org Built in 1940, a total of 2436 Air Force pilots from all over the world earned their wings right here in Haldimand County. Today, the site is used as a museum that houses memorabilia, photos and vintage planes, and a library and a memorial garden. Trying out the flight simulator is the bonus that makes visiting this museum the best idea around.
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Chiefswood Museum Ohsweken chiefswood.com Built by Chief George Johnson as a gift for his English bride Susannah Howells the two front doors symbolize their lives “Where Cultures Meet.” Whether coming from the road or from the river, all guests were welcomed. Of their four children, the youngest was the famous poetess Pauline Johnson who celebrated her mixed ancestry through the performing arts.
Walpole Antique Farm Machinery Association Jarvis wafma.ca Get your dancing shoes on and come celebrate the past with a barn dance or a beef barbecue, just two of the many events hosted at this farm equipment museum. Founded in 1994 to preserve the rich agricultural history of the Walpole region and educate future generations about the past farming practices, this museum in Jarvis must-stop destination.
Paris Museum & Historical Society Paris theparismuseum.com Through education, special events, and a collection of historical artifacts, The Paris Museum and Historical Society brings instruction and enjoyment to our community. Best said by a longtime member, “By striving to enrich the spirit, engage the mind, and stimulate the senses, we believe that we will inspire participants, including the next generation of museum-goers and historical enthusiasts.”
Teeterville Pioneer Museum Teeterville teetervillemuseum.ca The Teeterville Museum came into being 50 years ago as a Centennial Project thanks to the work of The Teeterville Woman’s Institute and Windham Township. Enter the log cabin to view the collections of artifacts and take a walk back in time to understand what life was like for the area’s pioneers and how they survived and built this country.
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Finding truth in history is about understanding that truth is not absolute, only relative and sometimes stretched and bent to tell a better story. As mentioned in our spring 2021 issue of Live Small Town magazine, recently, I won my bid on a pile of vintage photos and postcards spanning 1900 to 1956. I paid $14 for these memories from the past. Memories that are no longer cherished or belonging to anyone. Until now! They now belong to us—the Live Small Town community. I asked readers to help me rewrite their stories, and Heather Slot, the owner of The Grilled Cheese Effect in Paris, reached out. She knew exactly, without question, who these two
Heather Slot, owner of The Grilled Cheese Effect
children were! They were Alexander and Alice Masters, the children of Philanthropists William and Isabel Masters of Poughkeepsie, New York. They were well known in the early 1900s for their benevolence and highfalutin social airs. Their children helped them create the picture-perfect family but unbeknownst to fashionable society, the Masters held a dark secret. They were addicted to the newly invented Campbell’s Tomato Soup and were obsessed with finding a perfect pairing.
Poor Alexander and Alice were often subjected to the culinary experiments of their deranged parents as they became more obsessed with mixing in all the latest culinary inventions with the soup in search of the perfect match. Oysters Rockefeller, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Jello, puffed cereals, canary pudding, instant coffee, and milk chocolate Hershey bars. They were never satisfied with the results and continued searching. At a young age, Alexander became fiercely protective of Alice and would often offer himself up for the strangest experiments to shield Alice from pain and suffering of indigestion. Still, at the age of eight, Alexander could no longer endure their obsession with processed food pairing and stopped speaking. Five years passed without him saying a single word and it was becoming difficult for William and Isabel to explain why their once vibrant son refused to talk, so they decided to separate the children. But before they could, Alexander packed a few personal items, and with his sister in hand, they fled to Chicago. There they met and friended Canadian cheese lover and businessman James L. Kraft who sympathized with their unpalatable upbringing and offered them a place to stay. James was struggling at the time to make ends meet with
his modest donkey cart venture filled with spoiling cheese, but Alice and Alexander, through years of watching their parents toil away in the kitchen, seemed pretty savvy and helped him create a product that would never spoil. James quickly patented this brilliant invention and began selling processed Kraft Cheese across the nation and world. To avoid the processed cheese limelight, James L. Kraft helped his young friends relocate to his hometown of Stevensville, Ontario, where they lived quiet lives and had families of their own. Some years later, Alice’s great-granddaughter, Heather Slot, pondered taking a new direction in her life when she discovered Alice’s diaries in her family’s attic. She had never met Alice or Alexander, nor did she know of their struggles and triumphs, but she did know one thing. The perfect pairing to Campbell’s Tomato Soup was the grilled cheese sandwich! So she took it as a sign, and in 2019 she opened The Grilled Cheese Effect in The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and has been honouring her ancestors ever since. I know you might think this is a far-fetched story, but history is a strange beast and who truly knows what the real story ever is.
The Grilled Cheese Effect Photo by JAY PERRY jayperry.ca
Beyond Belief
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Heirlooms & Antiques Looking to spend a day antique or vintage hunting? Need to find that perfect period piece to enhance your home or wardrobe? Looking for some retro tunes or previously-enjoyed gems? Take a drive down our country roads, stopping at flea markets and local shops to search for treasures, then pop into one of our quaint eateries for some local fare... ANTIQUE SHOPS (some of our many) Alice Street Antiques
14 Alice St, Waterford Antiques at the Sawmill
RR 1, Ayr Antique Chevrolet Parts
Insurance that frees you for what matters most. HOME AUTO COMMERCIAL FARM
Lee Ellery, Agent Cell: 519.476.9602
lee@dumfriesmutual.com dumfriesmutual.com/leeellery
1221 Hwy 5 W, Dundas antiquechev.com Alfred Street Nostalgia
97 Alfred St, Brantford Anderson Auctions
7 Clonmel Ln, Port Dover jimandersonauctions.com Artiques Hagersville
23 Main St N, Hagersville Bird & Bee Vintage at Wincey MIlls
31 Mechanic St, Paris birdandbeevintage.com Caledonia Furniture Finds FaBULoUS nEw arrIVaLS!!! Grace & Lace Catherine Lillywhite Papillon, Charlie Paige Jacqueline Kent Lil Llama baby gifts Cartwheels kids GorGEoUS DÉCor!!
127 Argyle St S, Unit #5 caledoniafurniturefinds.com Caresa Antiques
1182 Windham Rd 9, Windham Centre Cattail Cove Interiors
1012 Bay St #4, Port Rowan Cheap Shabby Chic
148 Queen St, Dunnville Christie Antique and Vintage Show
1000 ON-5, Dundas christieshow.ca CJ’s Antiques & Refinishing
AN ARtisAN ColleCtive
Bringing the beauty of small batch to you with a focus in Norfolk County
2619 Cockshutt Rd Norfolk County 905-537-3936
shopatsweetwater.ca
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4080 Hwy. 24, Vanessa cjsantiques.ca
Welcome Fall!! 1407 Hwy 59, Port rowan 519.586.3817
Clappison Corners Antiques
845 Highway 6, Hamilton clappisonantiques.com Classic Vault Emporium
12 Main St S, St George Collectors Centre
46 Colborne St, Brantford collectors-centre.business.site Colonel Mustard Antiques
7014 Hamilton Rd, Putnam Country Corner Antiques
3067 ON-3, Simcoe Courtland Treasures Antiques and Emporium
682 James St, Delhi Covey Coin & Supply Centre
92 Simcoe St, Tillsonburg Crossroads Antique Market
1146 Colborne St E, Brantford Deer Creek Antiques & Creations
1703 Norfolk County Rd 45, Langton Forch’s Record Store
59 Dalhousie St, Brantford Franni’s Attic
Lisa Lalonde
Mortgage Agent M20000423
Lisa Lalonde
Assist. to Carmen Costa/Mortgage Agent
1011 Bay St, Port Rowan Freelton Antique Market
248 Freelton Rd, Freelton Grand River Antiques
1540 East, Hwy 54, Caledonia grandriverantiques.com Grand River Antique Society
Cayuga grandriverantiquesociety. yolasite.com Haldimand House Marketplace
C 519.761.8810 E lisa.lalonde@axiom.ca @axiom_hamilton
smalltownmortgage.com
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22 Argyle St S, Caledonia haldimandhouse.com Henry Dobson Antiques Inc
955781 Gibson Ln, Drumbo Hilltop Furniture & Antiques
88 Dundas St E, Waterdown Judiths Antiques
18 Short Rd, Dundas The Kilted Moose
57 Talbot St, W, Aylmer Lancome Antiques
1413 Brock Rd, Dundas lancomeantiques.ca Main Station Collectables & Pawn Shop
28 Alice St, Waterford
The Eliminators Do you want to lose weight or overcome anxiety, or stop those nasty hot flashes? The Eliminators produce three natural flower essence therapy products that work instantly. Flower Therapy is a form of harmonizing medicine that harnesses the emotional and physical healing powers present in carefully selected flowers from around the world to heal the body and the mind.
Maus Park Antiques
289 Pinehurst Rd, Paris mausparkantiques.ca Miller & Miller Auctions
59 Webster St, New Hamburg millerandmillerauctions.com Mizener’s Antiques & More Market
367 ON-5, Dundas mizenersmarket.com
5113 Hwy 3, Simcoe
blueharvestsalon.ca
Modern Hipster Antiques
70 Thames St S, Ingersoll modernhipster.com Naturally Country Gift Shop & Tea Room
We are so happy to be offering our guests high-quality and safe services again and now is the perfect time to take care of yourself and make positive changes with hair and body treatments. Blue Harvest is here to help! Our salon is perfectly located in rural Norfolk County. Surrounded by rolling country fields, you will quickly become nestled in a relaxing and elevated salon experience that promotes quality self-care.
184 Caithness St. W. Caledonia 289-284-0114 the-eliminators.com
5020 Tyneside Rd, Mount Hope Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 61
Needful Things Pawn shop
75 Broadway, Tillsonburg Nice Old Stuff
2037 Main St N, Jarvis niceoldstuff.ca Old Town Hall Auctions
13 Burwell St, Paris oldtownhallauctions.com One of a Kind Antiques & Collectibles
97 Wilson St, Woodstock oneofakindantiquemall.com Orange Cat Antiques
200 Brant Ave, Brantford Paris Road Antiques
548 Paris Rd, Paris parisroadantiques.blogspot.com
100% pRemium veGan inGRedients since 1994.
Pickers Antiques Warehouse
Inside C- Squared Menswear 334 Main St, Port Dover & 1049 Bay St, Port Rowan + Crossroads Trading Post & Flea Market 1146 Colborne St E, Brantford Queensway Antiques
88 Queensway W, Simcoe Rock Chapel Antique Market
Wholesale, pRomotional and event FavouRs
167 5 Hwy, Hamilton rockchapel.ca Tattered and Torn
903 Haldibrook Rd, Caledonia etsy.com/ca/shop/TatteredanTorn Southworks Antiques
73 Water St, N, Cambridge southworksantiques.com The Back Shed Antiques & Primitive Crafts
tRust the diFFeRence expeRience, KnoWledGe & passion maKes
Your great gift giving ideas begin here Soap • Bath • Body • home Care refillery • 35+ aRtisans
2388 Highway 3 E, Jarvis thebackshed.ca The Fox and Fawn Antiques
93 Broadway, Tillsonburg foxandfawnshoppe.com The Freelton Antique Mall
248 Freelton Rd, Freelton freeltonantiquemall.com The Henhouse Shoppe
163719 Brownsville Rd, Brownsville The Yellow Farmhouse
697 Stoney Creek Rd, Caledonia Tillsonburg Antiques Plus
6 Old Vienna Rd, Tillsonburg 10 King George Rd, Brantford 519-304-5414
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Time Capsule Antiques & Retro Nostalgia
168 Queen St, Dunnville timecapsuleretro.blogspot.ca Towpath On The Grand Antiques & Collectibles
14 Talbot St W, Cayuga towpathonthegrand.com Toys ‘n Stock
676888 16 Line, Tavistock Typical Collector Antiques
2125 Amesbury Cres, Burlington Unique Boutique Gifts Antiques
Alice St, Waterford Waterford Antique Market
Fall in love with the outdooRS!
80 B Alice St, Waterford waterfordantiquemarket.com Webster R Antiques
1146 Colborne St, E, Brantford MUSEUMS (some of our many) Bell Homestead National Historic Site
94 Tutela Heights Rd, Brantford bellhomestead.ca Canadian Drilling Rig Museum
4858 Rainham, Selkirk canadiandrillingrigmuseum.com Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
9280 Airport Rd, Mount Hope warplane.com Chiefswood Museum
1037 Hwy 54 E, Brantford chiefswood.com Dundas Museum & Archives
Helping families live better Isaac Rosebrugh Mortgage Broker 519-754-6611 Residential Commercial Purchase Refinance Debt Consolidation Investment Properties Verico The Mortgage Wellness Group Limited Brokerage Lic.#11970 Each office is independently owned and operated.
While you are out exploring the natural wonders of Norfolk County, make sure to stop in and check out our amazing selection of bird feeders & feed. You will also find a fantastic selection of pet toys and more!
1086 Bay St, Port Rowan 519-586-3901
doerksencountrystore.com
Apply online at MortgageBrant.ca
139 Park St W, Dundas Westfield Heritage Village
1049 Kirkwall Rd, Rockton Eva Brook Donly Museum
109 Norfolk St S, Simcoe norfolklore.com Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum
64 Sulphur Springs Rd, Ancaster
KND
Ltd
automotive
Haldimand Museum & Archives
8 Echo St, Cayuga Ingersoll Cheese & Agricultural Museum
290 Harris St, Ingersoll Myrtleville House Museum
34 Myrtleville Dr, Brantford brantmuseum.ca Personal Computer Museum
13 Alma St, Brantford pcmuseum.ca
supporting End of lifE transitions with Compassion and rEspECt
Lube + Oil + Filter + Fluid Levels + Tires Computer Scanning Engine Control System MTO Safety Inspections for Cars and Single Axel Pickup Trucks Engine Tuneups & Cooling Systems Tire Repairs & Balancing Durashield Dripless Rustproofing Brakes • Suspension • Air Conditioning
Port Dover Harbour Museum
44 Harbour St, Port Dover portdovermuseum.ca
Advance Care Planning, Advocacy, Caregiver Respite, Community Support & Education Sessions, Companioning, Funeral Celebrant, Legacy Projects, Vigil Attendant
Ruthven Park National Historic Site
243 Haldimand Hwy. #54, Cayuga ruthvenpark.ca Walpole Antique Farm Machinery Association
2041 ON-6, Jarvis wafma.ca Thames Valley Museum School
656 Main St N, Burgessville
Years Young! 199 King Edward St. PariS 519-442-7110
Call: 905-630-4193 Email: sphillips5519@gmail.com
suephillips.ca
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Arts & CULTURE
The Folk Norfolk County thefolk.ca In the spring of 2020, Ashley Verrall, Drew Walmsley and Eric Pond decided to do what so many others would consider crazy – They started a business! They realized that it has never been more important to support local, and they wanted to play a more meaningful role in supporting small businesses throughout Covid-19. The Folk is a clothing brand that celebrates everything Norfolk County. Farmin’ Folk, Fair Folk, Fishin’ Folk, Library Folk and everything in between! A portion of each sale is used to purchase gift cards from local businesses, which are in turn given back to customers that have supported ‘The Folk’ with the goal of encouraging people to shop local more.
Inspiring Minds
Arts and culture are an important resource in our path to building stronger connections with the present and the past, serving to document and preserve stories and ensure that history is shared. They beautify public spaces, help forge relationships where there is diversity and become stewards of strength in community. At Live Small Town, we love to promote local participation and bonds. We believe one of the best ways to engage is through the arts.
On the Map
Bejeweled
How are you staying creative during this time of pause? Need some inspiration to get creating? Here are some great artists to inspire. BY NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL Allura Natura Jewelry Design Brant alluranatura.etsy.com Growing up with artistic parents and grandparents and long leisurely walks in nature with Grandpa while learning about flora and fauna was the perfect storm that created this artist. Her interest in jewellery was peaked as a preteen with a friendship bracelet kit, then in high school when she entered a coop at a jewellery studio, and well, the rest is history. A woman right where she was meant to be bringing us her unique creations that combine her two loves and keep us connected to nature.
Harmony Jewellers Dunnville, Grimsby, Burlington harmonyjewellers.ca Voted Top Jewellery Store by locals, Harmony Jewellers has been a trusted familyowned business for over 40 years since opening its doors in 1975. Whether looking for a diamond for that special someone, a custom creation reworked from a family heirloom, or maybe you want a classic watch to give you that extra pizazz, this is the place to do your shopping.
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Robert Hall St George roberthalloriginals.com Robert Hall and his wife Betty left teaching in 1974, but that is not to say they do not still teach. Besides having a shop with over 3000 gifts created on-site by this Master Pewter smith and jewellery made with his daughter Heather, you can also take classes in jewellery making and see the process of pewter smithing from start to finish. A great place to stop and learn and pick up some supplies of your own.
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The Neighbourhood Witch Magickal Products Brantford etsy.com/shop/ NeighbourhoodWitchh A class in jewellery making opened up this 20-year old’s heart to the spiritual energy working with crystals brought her and the joy she finds in creating. Tris picks her stones with care, centring on what the stone’s energy brings to you, like Strength, Courage, Leadership. She desires to bring a little majik into your life with her unique pieces.
Shore Inspired Treasures Port Ryerse Chere Smith has always lived near the water from the east coast to the west coast and then landing here in Norfolk County. Since childhood, she has been that person who goes for walks and comes back with sticks, glass and sand in her pockets. Those beachcombing walks have led to Shore Inspired Treasures, a collection of her wonderful art and jewellery inspired by the treasures that the water washes ashore.
Ancaster Gem Mineral & Bead Show - Oct. 2-3 ancastergemshow.com This is a big event where rockhounds and jewellery artists come together to share their passion. Robert Hall is the Master Pewtersmith who organizes this function. Over 500 exhibitors offering demos and seminars can share their unique fossils, minerals, gemstones, and handcrafted jewellery. The kid-friendly activities that make education fun can help make this a great family outing.
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Portrait of an Artist
They help us negotiate connections between ourselves and the world. They make us think more deeply, strive more intently, feel joy more profoundly and bring meaning and purpose to humanity. These are the artists behind the art.
Francine Tausney
Paris @francinevtausney Art, like life, is a journey—an exploration of what is possible, what we love, and where it can take us. I feel like I have been on this voyage my whole life. Finding beauty in nature, I was a floral designer for many years. Then, I turned to photography, beginning with weddings and portraits before moving on to higher-profile gigs, photographing celebrities and major events. After moving to Paris in 2008, I found myself in a hotbed of talented artists. I became close with Holly O, Kim DiFrancesco, and Amy Walsh-Harris, just to name a few. Continuing my creative journey, I joined a painting club and put brush to canvas. I also studied printmaking from another talented local, Ralph Heather. Having engaged in many forms of expression, I have come to cherish the creative process. Whether visual art, poetry or woodworking, the practice of bringing original works into the world through effort and imagination is magical. It has also been healing. In difficult times, when facing depression or hardships, it is creation that restores us. During a recent career setback, I decided to pick up a brush and start to paint. This set me back on my feet and led me to new works. The journey continues for me, and I hope my work can inspire and speak to others. 66 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
STEVE THOMAS GREER
Paris artofstevethomasgreer.com abracadabrasigns.com I strive for a uniquely magical and whimsical innovation recipe with a splash of mild to wild colours and toss in a creative flare in my art and work in my Abracadabra Signs business. Since the late 1970s, colouring books were not an option for me. Why colour someone else’s toons when I could draw my own and colour them? Art was my early ticket in school. I excelled at it naturally. When it was time to start having life responsibilities, well, what the heck, I started a business based on what I was truly passionate about. Whimsical and creative projects. Abracadabra Murals allowed me to do what I loved and get paid for it. It even allowed me to travel through every major city in North America doing work for the Pita Pit Chain, where I was painting whimsical cartoons on their walls and menus. This then evolved into Abracadabra Signs, where I spent the next 27 years creating and designing unique, dimensional signage projects! The reason I got into this business was inspired by my love of drawing. Still, business took over and picking up a paintbrush or a sketching tool took a back seat! But one day, I realized that instead of allowing the daily grind to put me into the creative slump of exhaustion, I needed to start slinging some paint for fun again, which turned into some great opportunities at galleries in California, Flordia (Disney POP gallery) Jamaica and Toronto. It allowed the fever to flow back in, and I soon realized that this is my passion and artistic therapy! I started selling commissioned originals and prints. I flow with acrylic paint and dabble in some resins. My latest work can not be without dimensional layering, which moves from the sign business. Talk about a dream-filled life. Cranking out magical signs as a career and flowing paint and toons in my spare time. Just like paint, I am staying slick and free-flowing! Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 67
Noise Makers
They bring community together by weaving stories and emotions in the spirit of sharing and forging bonds. BY Sara Moody Veldhuis Ah, sweet summer! It is such a special time of year! For many, it is a time to rest and recharge. It’s a time to travel and dream of meeting up with friends and family and make memories. For me, summer means music. Lots and lots of music! And music in the summer usually means music festivals. But the global pandemic has brought a halt to concerts and festivals, and well, I don’t know about you, but I am missing these events a lot! This is
why I am here now, dreaming and scheming and hoping and wishing for events that maybe can’t happen just yet, or perhaps will happen but not exactly how we remember them. And I am thinking ahead about events that are coming up and that are being planned for next year. And it’s getting me pretty excited. One of the things that I like to look for in an event such as a music festival is its “bigger picture”? Does it have a greater purpose than just presenting musicians?
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Is it somehow showcasing or highlighting its community? Does it offer younger musicians or artisans the chance to be a part of the event and gain professional experience? Does it support a charity or worthy cause of some sort? I had a chance to speak with the organizers of three local events that fit this bill perfectly and to hear their plans for the (not-too-distant) future! Forge Fest Tillsonburg forgefest.ca In 1825, George Tillson erected a forge and sawmill 50km southeast of London, Ontario. A community was then established around these two indispensable buildings called Dereham Forge, now known as Tillsonburg, Ontario. One hundred ninety-six years later, Tillsonburg resident Ben Andress turned
this sense of community into “Forge Fest,” a multi-venue music and comedy festival celebrating local, national and international artists, musicians and comedians. July 2021 should have seen the third Forge Fest come to fruition, but it was postponed to later this year. Ben Andress has been passionate about two things most of his life: music and connecting with people. Founder of Blacktop Records, an artist management/record label/ tour agency, which he started while at school in St. Catharines in 2005, Ben has supported music and musicians since before he was in college. And now, Forge Fest not only brings joy to his community it also raises funds and awareness for the Canadian Mental Health Association of Oxford. Connect with Forge Fest on their website and social links for the latest news! Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival Norfolk County friendshipfest.ca Near and dear to my heart is the Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival, which is the current incarnation of the free, family festival in the Town of Simcoe, every Civic Holiday weekend since 1967. By the time this edition of Live Small Town magazine is published, the Friendship Fest, as the locals lovingly call it, will have just produced a threeday, socially distanced Pop-Up event, providing free concerts from some of the area’s best musicians and a chance to help out two of Norfolk County’s hard-working service clubs. In addition to getting the
Birdtown Photo by Belinda Smith of The Small Town Girls smalltowngirlsmusic.com, Friendship Festival photo by Mike Bourgeault mikebourgeault.com, Forge Fest Photo by Chris Forrest
Birdtown Jamboree/Cornstock
Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival
word out for next year’s Festival and generating some buzz within the community, the residents of Norfolk County will have had a little taste of what we have all been craving these last 16 months: live music! Calling this year’s event “The Countdown to 2022”, plans are already in the works for the Friendship Festival to return, in full, to the parks of Simcoe. “The heart of this Festival has always been community and how proud Norfolk residents are of our area. We want to celebrate all that Simcoe and Norfolk County have to offer, not only to our local citizens but to the public far and wide”, said Kathleen Lamouroux, Chair of the organizing committee, “and we are excited to get as many Norfolk residents involved as possible”. The beautiful thing about
the Friendship Festival is that it provides a venue for so many service clubs and local organizations to raise money, which then goes directly back into the community. In my humble opinion, you can’t do any better than that! You can check out the Festival’s new website and logo (courtesy of Eric Pond from Eric Pond Designs) at friendshipfest.ca where you will find links to all their Social Media platforms. Birdtown Jamboree/ Cornstock Port Dover facebook.com/BirdtownJamboreeCornstock Seventeen years ago, a group of Norfolk County musicians known as the Birdtown Jamboree came together to host an event at the Wagonwheel Produce and Corn Maze, just west of Simcoe. On a whim,
owner Arden Koptik named it Cornstock (in mock tribute to the famed Woodstock Festival of 1969), and the moniker stuck! Now, seventeen years later, this Festival is stronger than ever, having moved last year to a new venue homegrownhideaway.com, a gorgeous glamping and event property located adjacent to the Lynn Valley Trail outside of Dover. The driving force behind The Birdtown Jamboree/ Cornstock is Tony Duclos, a Norfolk County musician who would likely admonish me for calling him that. “The musicians who perform at this festival each year are the driving force of the event,” said Duclos. “Without them, I am nothing!” - and I get his point! The musicians, who range from solo acts to fullfledged bands, all donate their time and talent to this event, with the sole purpose of providing funding to local children’s music and arts initiatives. “Last year, with Covid, we almost didn’t have a festival,” said Duclos. “But the provincial guidelines allowed us to host an outdoor event with up to 100 patrons”. So they put tickets online for the first time and sold out in less than 24 hours! They also hosted their first-ever online
auction of “wall-hanger art guitars,” which was enthusiastically supported. This year, the musicians have come together to produce the Birdtown Jamboree Recording Project, with plans to release this compilation of the Festival’s musicians at this year’s event. “The cool thing about this project is that the musicians, who are all Festival favourites, have come together in random groupings on this album,” said Duclos. “And this is how they will be showcased at this year’s Festival! Which is going to be fantastic”, he said. Check out the Birdtown Jamboree/ Cornstock’s social media links, and be sure to nab a ticket for this year’s rain or shine event, which takes place on the first weekend in September after Labour Day! It promises to be the best one yet! Forge Fest
GETTING YOUR JAM ON. Although many music festivals have been cancelled, take
note, check their status online and be sure to attend when everything resumes.
1 Brant Music Festival, April & May dates brantmusicfestival.ca 2 Norfolk Musical Arts Celebration, Simcoe March nmaf.ca 3 Woodstock Rotary Music Festival, Woodstock - April & May dates woodstockrotaryfestivalofmusic.com 4 Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival, Burlington - June soundofmusic.ca 5 Dunnville Mudcat Festival, Dunnville - June dunnvillemudcatfestival.ca 6 Ever After Music Festival, Kitchener - June everafterfest.com 7 Hagersville Rocks Music Festival, Hagersville - July Hagersville Rocks Music Festival 8 Forge Fest, Tillsonburg - July forgefest.ca 9 Home County Music and Art Festival, London - July homecounty.ca 10 Brott Music Festival, Ancaster - July & August dates tickets.brottmusic.com 11 Music at Fieldcote, Ancaster - July & August musicatfieldcote.com 12 Waterdown ArtsFest, Waterdown - August artsfest.ca 13 Country Roots Music Festival, Burford - August 14 Fred Eaglesmith Charity Music Festival, Aylmer - August fredeaglesmith.com 15 The Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival, Simcoe - August 16 Birdtown Jamboree - Cornstock, Port Dover September 17 South Coast Jazz, Norfolk County - September southcoastjazz.com 18 River Arts Festival, Dunnville - October Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 69
Events & Activities THEATRE
ART
ART CLASSES
KITS
As live theatre continues to grow in popularity, lovers of the performing arts across Canada have begun noticing an emerging trend: big cities aren’t the only places to find a good show. Small towns and local theatres are churning out quality performances and their well-known theatre companies and impressive resumes mean a trip to the theatre is even closer than you realize. Backstage Capitol Theatre
Unwrap your senses as you step inside our little shop. Enjoy hand crafted natural soaps, bath and body care, local artisans wares, gift giving ideas, home & decor.
Visit our website to learn about our art classes and art kits! We’re also open by appointment for art viewings. 24 Winnett St N, Cayuga 905.929.4902 info@wildwoodcayuga.com wildwoodcayuga.com
93 King St, Delhi backstagecapitol.com Open year-round, this unique and historic venue plays host to live performances of Celtic, folk, vintage rock & roll, and a host of other genres. Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corp
247 Main St, Port Dover lighthousetheatre.com The theatre is open all year long for a variety of events, including concerts, public meetings, community fundraisers, dance recitals, workshops, band rehearsals and classes. The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
88 Dalhousie St, Brantford sandersoncentre.ca A vintage vaudeville and silent movie theatre opened in 1919, this local gem showcases plays, classical music, dance and more. With seating for 1,125 guests, it is also the home to the Brantford Symphony Orchestra. Simcoe Little Theatre
Because you are important, we request that everyone wears a mask.
Mon - Saturday 10-5, Sundays 12-4 359 Main St. Port Dover 519-583-3977
cottagenorthsoapworks.com 70 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
33 Talbot St N, Simcoe simcoelittletheatre.org Open for 71 + years, this community theatre offers a grand selection of drama, comedy and classics. Waterford Old Town Hall
Gallery/Studio oPen by aPPt. 16 Charlotte St., PariS 519-442-7211 hollyo.ca
76 Main St S, Waterford oldtownhall.org A restored historic building that boasts an 180-seat auditorium, the Waterford Old Town Hall provides us with cultural diversity as a music, artistic and theatrical production venue.
GALLERIES
Nothing boosts your own personal creativity more than visiting art galleries. Akin to osmosis, being around art and in the company of creative folks makes you feel more creative. Our small-town communities are rich in this talent and there is no better way to experience it than to pop into one of these local showcases. Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant
20 Ava Rd, Brantford glenhyrst.ca Located in Glenhyrst Gardens, a beautifully landscaped 16-acre park on the banks of the Grand River, the gallery offers contemporary fine art exhibitions, guided tours, classes, lectures, events, and art rentals. Holly.O. Gallery
16 Charlotte St. Paris (one street north of the Arlington Hotel) hollyo.ca Paris artist Holly.O. welcomes visitors to her gallery and studio. View Holly’s collection of original artworks and take a behind-the-scenes look at her sunny studio space. Gallery is open by appointment throughout the year.
399 West Street, Brantford, 519-754-8926, robersonfinearts@gmail.com
robersonfinearts.ca
The Oak Gallery
313 Main St, Port Dover theoakgallery.com This new gallery offers the work of both local artists and those from afar, showcasing metal, wax, acrylic, glass, ceramic, wood, watercolour, oil and ink artistic creations. Two Turtles Iroquois Fine Art Gallery
649 Colborne St, W, Brantford twoturtle.ca This modest gallery brings you the best of Iroquois culture and symbolism, celebrating nature in the form of original paintings, soapstone sculptures, limited-edition acrylic prints, giclée prints and lithographs. Wildwood Art Gallery & Studio
24 Winnett St, N, Cayuga WildwoodCayuga.com This new gallery is home to artist Kerry Walford who specializes in oil paintings of rural Ontario. The gallery will also feature the work of local artists, offer art classes for children and adults, and host several art shows throughout the year. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 71
NATURE CALLS
Out & About
Seasons are ever-changing. The altering weather is a gentle reminder that all things end but can begin anew. Search out the treasure trove of things to see and activities to do in our communities. The sky’s the limit when it comes to natural beauty and outdoor adventure, so grab your fishing rod, pack your sunscreen and dust off your hiking boots - the great outdoors is calling. 72 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Lead Flower Photo by Marc Douglas marcdouglas.ca
“...and then, I have nature and art and poetry, and if that is not enough, what is enough?” Vincent Willem van Gogh
Bringing Nature Home Native plants are essential for supporting the needs of local wildlife populations. While all plants can provide shelter, and some with berries offer food, native plants contribute the most significant benefits because they also welcome a wide variety of insects that feed many animals. These insects are vital for local bird populations when they are raising young. We all can help by choosing to plant local species. Here are just a few ideas. BY Kate Sharrow
Elderberry Well known for its berries that can be made into delicious jams or pies once cooked, it is essential to remember that the berries can be harmful if eaten raw. It spreads by suckers that make it ideal for naturalizing a large area but if you wish for a more contained specimen, prune suckers as they appear. This shrub requires moist soil and lots of sunshine, but it will also tolerate shade—great food for local birds.
Canada Anemone This hardy perennial ground cover is easy to maintain and produces lovely white buttercup flowers in Spring. Its rapid growth and adaptability make it an ideal choice for those hard-to-grow open spaces in your garden. It is tolerant to drought and thrives in the shade. The blooms last from May to June but be sure to plant with enough space between other plants as it spreads rapidly.
Berry Bladder Fern This is a unique-looking fern that will brighten up the shady spots of your garden! Fiddleheads grow on bright red stems in the spring, followed by light green leaves. Mature leaves then develop little bulbits that drop to the ground and produce new plants. It is an excellent companion plant for other non-competitive native species that love shady and moist conditions and thrives beneath trees with fertile soil.
Kentucky Coffee Tree This rare Carolinian species is found only in a few wild spots in southern Ontario. It is a showy tree commonly used in urban locations because of its high tolerance to air pollution. It is a good shade tree for your yard as it can grow to 80 feet at maturity but loses its leaves early in the fall. Its pods and seeds can be used to make a unique coffee, but it must be roasted because the seeds are toxic when raw.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 73
OUT OF THE
ORDINARY
Connecting with nature offers a wealth of benefits, not to mention the sheer enjoyment of being surrounded by beauty. So go play outside. BY Tara Carpenter Want your child to grow up strong, resilient, confident, and be a risk-taker? These are all the essential qualities of a critical thinker and leader. I am certain that every parent and guardian desires this for the cherished wee ones under their wing. How are we limiting our younger generation’s growth? With parks made from plastic, climb here, slide there, all primary colours and being, all the same, there is no room for creativity or inventiveness. This creates a world that does not inspire a child to explore their imagination and wonder
of the world. What are kids needing the most right now? Freedom, morale-boosting, and get outside. They need to explore farther than the school playground, fenced-in parks, and over-structured lessons. We need to consider the reshaping of our communities so that kids have various spaces to play and explore freely. This generation needs the freedom of outdoor play more than ever. Check out the Lions Park Sensory Trail in Paris, enroll your child in a local Forest School like GROWE Outdoor School in Brant County,
go for a hike at Backus woods, or let them be in the backyard without toys. Introduce your school or community to naturalplaygrounds.ca who designs and creates natural play spaces that guide teachers, families and communities toward a new level of engagement. I hope we have all learned this past year that we desperately require to submerge the younger generation in the healing virtues of nature. To give them a balance of healthy emotional and mental strength and a sense of belonging, playing in nature is essential to children’s development; how could it be otherwise, considering human history and evolution?
Tara Carpenter discovered her love for nature and the outdoors at an early age while growing up on a Norfolk farm. She has always been an avid enthusiast of nature and travel, and for 17 years, she roamed all corners of the globe in search of adventure. From sailing Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to hitchhiking across Canada, Tara has made herself at home in nature’s embrace. Grounded by the unique challenges of motherhood, Tara now encourages other parents and their families to get outdoors and foster their passion for environmental connectedness. For info on programs, connect with Terra Trails or GROWE groweoutdoorschool.ca. 74 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
More and more research shows the great benefits of a different kind of play; they call it unstructured play and Here are a few tips on how we can encourage our children to play, roam and explore freely.
Do - Give your child unstructured playtime outside. When children are released outside to play, it’s not unlike a flock of birds taking flight. It improves kids’ physical health, social interactions, imaginative problem-solving as well as parental stress levels. They may balk at first, not knowing what to do since their lives are so over-structured, but what emerges will astonish you.
Don’t - Helicopter parent. As adults, we want to protect and nurture innately, but the grim consequences of these actions are that we are taking away our children’s confidence to navigate their environment. What is the worst that can happen, they make a mistake? A true leader is not afraid of making a mistake or performing incorrectly. Aren’t we supposed to learn from our mistakes?
Do - Allow your child to be bored. We are a society afraid of boredom. When we deny our children their right to boredom, we are restricting their development. It stimulates problem solving areas of our brains that cannot be accessed any other way. Boredom begets creativity and new thought pathways. Give your child the gift of boredom. This is where the wonderful creative imagination is born.
Don’t - Put your child in front of a screen. Screens have significantly impacted our children’s abilities to tolerate unstructured, imaginative play without immediate reward. With the lure of screen time, being stuck indoors casts a gloomy shadow on childhood and shapes desires that follow us into adulthood. It may be an easy babysitter, but fight the tiring battle and limit unnecessary screen time.
Do - Be a nature mentor. For many parents, nurturing a love for the outdoors in their children may not come so easily. It may take a shift in our thinking, but the great outdoors can become a part of daily life for families and a healthy, enjoyable habit. Not comfortable pushing the kids out the door for the afternoon? The magic happens when families, friends and communities get outside together.
Don’t - Over structure play. Free-range play has been plagued by fear and a cultural shift towards increased supervision and rule-setting. Primarily everything children carry out is structured to the point they are being conveyed what to do, say, and think. When they are being instructed every move to make there is not much room for the freedom of risk-taking, creative imagination and fun.
Do - Support local Forest Schools. Enrolling in this alternative education is a remarkable way to find nature mentors for your kids. They will have them feeling comfortable and safe out in all-weather, which will foster an impressive level of resilience that will benefit them into their future. The experiences here will have them pushing their limits and being saturated in nature connections.
Don’t - Worry. There have been countless research papers and extensive books written about the importance of risky play. Advocate for youth to negotiate their environment by setting limits with risk management and then step back and permit the astounding growth that comes from it. Take the phrase “be careful” out of your vocabulary and use words that help them understand the consequences.
Do - Let your child get dirty. Playing in or with dirt is a valuable nature connection for the heart and soul of all ages. Set up an “outdoor kitchen.” All you need is some pots and pans, containers from the blue box, a few wooden spoons and of course some dirt. As adults, we tend to underestimate the magnitude of allowing kids to play in the dirt. Remember, there are constantly washing machines.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 75
Gaining Ground woodlots throughout the province and include individuals and organizations that support sustainability, good stewardship, and responsible forest management. The Association believes that private landowners have a vital role in ensuring that sustainably managed forests remain a part of Ontario’s future. By developing a strong network of 20 regional chapters, the OWA has been able to ensure that the concerns of its members from all areas of the province are heard and acted upon. “The OWA welcomes new members who share a passion for healthy, productive woodlots and forests, and works to uphold landowners’ rights, under the law, and also to emphasize landowners’ responsibilities,” says John Pineau, Executive Director of the OWA. “Our Chapters and members are the strength of the organization and the face of the OWA on the ground.” The OWA philosophy sees the woodlot owner as a steward of Ontario’s most important natural resource and believes each woodlot is part of a larger social, environmental, and economic landscape. The Association supports any initiative that seeks to achieve sustainable management of our woodlots and forests and expresses concern about any initiative that
The Ontario Woodlot Association is focussed on supporting Our private forest owners in stewardship and sustainability. There are approximately 170,000 woodlot owners in Ontario; these woodlots average about 20 hectares each but can range from just a few to thousands of hectares. While some families have owned their forested land for many generations, there is a growing contingent for whom woodlot ownership is a new and exciting experience. Ontario woodlots are home to a wide range of tree species: pine, cedar, spruce, maple, walnut, and oak, to name a few. The reason for and approach to owning a woodlot can be quite diverse. Some manage their woodlots for income, some to conserve wildlife habitat and others for various reasons. A common thread that brings landowners together is a desire to manage their woodlands to the best of their abilities and to ensure forest health for generations to come. The Ontario Woodlot Association (OWA) is a not-for-profit grassroots organization governed by an elected, volunteer board of directors. OWA members see our trees, wildlife, and the many ecological benefits of forests and as a crop. OWA members own and manage 76 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
might reduce forest cover in Ontario. Individuals and organizations who share a common interest in privately owned forests are welcome by the OWA to develop cooperative relationships and collaboration. “Why people come to own a woodlot can vary; an inheritance, a dream of living in the woods, or something to enjoy on weekends, but the thing that all tend to have in common is the question—what do I do now that I am a woodlot owner?” says Mr. Pineau. “The answer to that question has three parts: 1) get to know what is in your woods, 2) determine your objectives, and 3) create an action plan.” There are options available to the landowner when carrying out these steps... Some things may be done personally, but others are best done with the help of a forest professional. The landowner should consider all options and choose those that are the best fit for their situation. The OWA can certainly help by providing guidance, advice and best practices to woodlot owners that allow them to evolve as stewards of their valuable lands. The OWA’s network of regional chapters provides an opportunity for members and the public to interact and learn from each other and to see and deeply appreciate the value of this fundamental natural resource and the woodlot owner as its steward. “OWA membership is a great way for a landowner to acquire a better understanding of their forest,” says Marian Petelycky, OWA Quinte Chapter Board Rep. “It allows you to meet oth-
er members and local forestry experts, ask questions, and eventually guide the decision of which professional to hire should the need arise.” “By getting involved and attending chapter events, you will be able to talk with other members, ask questions, and share experiences,” continued Ms. Petelycky. “With the information gathered from woodlot
tours and workshops, you learn about monitoring forest health, from biodiversity, invasive species, to tree diseases and other important indicators of forest health.” Membership in the OWA has much value with various products and services, including a subscription to The Ontario Woodlander, a quarterly magazine with articles on all matters
about owning a woodlot and applying best forest management practices. A new member is also brought into the OWA fold of engaged and enthusiastic lifelong learners! The OWA also encourages woodlot owners to participate in the provincial government’s Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP). The purpose of the MFTIP is to assess managed forest properties at a rate similar to agricultural land, which, in some cases, results in substantial tax savings. Details are available on the OWA website, ontariowoodlot.com, under “Forest Management.” The link is ontariowoodlot. com/information/mftip/ mftip-program. In addition, through the OWA’s ongoing merger with the Eastern Ontario Model Forest, the option to have woodlots certified under Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards is available. Details are available at eomf.on.ca/programs/certification.
For more information about the OWA please email info@ ontariowoodlot. com or call 613-713-1525.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 77
PAINTING. QUALITY. PAINTING. PEACE OF MIND. QUALITY. PEACE OF MIND.
Getting out & about.
Winter, spring, summer and fall, we have no shortage of activities for outdoor enthusiasts who come to play in beautiful southwestern Ontario.
TRAILS County of Brant
Contact CertaPro Painters ® of Flamborough, Brant, Haldimand & Norfolk today for your FREE estimate!
(905) 769-0849 | niagara-brant.certapro.com
Each CertaPro Painters ® business is independently owned and operated.
County of Brant and Brantford have a trail system that is envied the world over, and our network of trails and pathways is used by walkers, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders alike. Check out some of the most popular trails below, as well as some of the lesser-known gems (our personal favourites). For more information, visit brant.ca • Apps Mill Trail (GRCA) • Burford Lion’s Way • Grand Valley Trail (GVTA) • Green Lane Park • Hamilton to Brantford Trail (GRCA) • LE & N Rail Trail • Mt.Pleasant Nature Park • Nith River Trail • Paris to Cambridge • S.C. Johnson Trail (GRCA) • TH & B Rail Trail BRANTFORD
• Apps Mill Trail (GRCA) • D’Aubigny Trail • Hamilton to Brantford Trail (GRCA) • Mohawk Park Haldimand County
GROWE offers nature immersion, attribute curriculum youth programs. The programs encompass a wide assortment of experiential and inquiry playbased learning. Our outdoor nature-based school days get your wild ones outside active and spark their curiosity and connection to nature. Forest school outdoor educational programs encourage children and their families to get outside and learn what nature has to offer.
Outdoor Education Programs For All Seasons 1 Bethel Rd, Paris, growe.fiveoaks@gmail.com, groweoutdoorschool.ca 78 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Haldimand is home to some of the most spectacular and scenic hiking trails around, many found along the Grand River and in our local parks and conservation areas. For more information, visit haldimandcounty.on.ca • Blue Heron Way • Chippewa Trail • Kinsmen Park Walkway • Patterson Walkway • Ramsay Walkway • Rotary Riverside Trail • Thistlemoor Park Pathway • Thompson Creek Restoration • Townsend Recreation Trail
IS GOING
VIRTUAL! From October 8 to 17, walk to shine a light on cancer from the safety of your own community while fundraising for the Cancer Program at Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre.
hamiltonhealth.ca/illuminight Register & Start Fundraising Today!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 79
inspired by a wild imagination and documenting the intricacies that define daily life; celebrating the in-betweens, knowing that every moment counts Limited availability for Lifestyle Photo Sessions in 2021. Email info@olliandella.com to book your session today! olliandella.com Limited availability for Documentary Lifestyle Photo Sessions in 2017. Email info@olliandella.com to book your session today! olliandella.com
voted #1
reAder’s CHoiCe Winner for Best HypnotHerApist.
Let’s be friends! We are not a registered charity; we are a community of friends working together to restore the magic of Christmas for families in need and over the last 9 years we have raised $227,619.87 and provided 3,000+ children with positive Christmas memories!
A HeAling AlternAtive tHAt sootHes tHe soul tHrougH Hypnosis, reiki treAtments. Helena is humbled by the communities outpouring of support. As a way of showing our appreciation during these difficult and stressful times, please email us at tony@willowglenclinic.com to receive a complimentary MP3 hypnotherapy session download.
184 Caithness St. W. Caledonia 289-284-0114 willowglenclinic.com 80 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
friendswithhearts.com
Norfolk County
Norfolk has a stunning selection of trails that take you through an array of wetlands, grasslands, forests and farmers’ fields. Explore landscapes that you have never been to before while experiencing all the adventures this county has to offer. norfolktrails.ca
We only have 1 chance at life... don’t dim your LIGHT.
Rhonda Arnott
• Andy and Helen Spriet Trail • Backus Woods • Big Creek National Wildlife Area • Brook Conservation Area • Delhi Rail Trail • Hay Creek Conservation Area • Lynn Valley Trail • Long Point Provincial Park • Port Rowan Wetlands • St Williams Conservation Reserve • Sutton Conservation Area • Turkey Point Provincial Park • Waterford Heritage Trail
Founder of Ignite Your Journey Co-creator of 3 Women Overboard podcast. I motivate women to take steps towards their dreams and goals through intuitive guidance and energy counselling.
Hamilton
Known as the City of Waterfalls, more than 100 waterfalls have been identified in the Hamilton area along the internationally-recognized Niagara Escarpment. So much beauty to discover here. conservationhamilton.ca • Bruce Trail • Christie Lake Conservation Area • Dundas Valley • Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area • Rockcliffe Waterdown Mountain
rhonda.arnott
rhondaarnott1
3 Women Overboard
Selkirk Village with a history by the lake
Bike Trail • Royal Botanical Gardens Loop Trail • Sherman Falls • Spencer Gorge Conservation Area • Spring Valley • Tiffany Falls Conservation Area • Valens Conservation Area OXFORD COUNTY
This small list of trails does not begin to introduce a fraction of the diverse trails in Oxford. Visit oxfordcountytrailscouncil.ca to find out more. • Beauty Creek Trail • Chesney Wilderness Area Trail • Lawson Nature Reserve • Oxford Thames River Trail • Pittock Conservation Area • Roth Park • Secord Trails Care Community
Museums
Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum Cottonwood Mansion Canadian Drilling Rig Museum
Shops
Barnwood Wine • Shear Knowledge Barbershop • Selkirk Home Hardware • Town & Country Foods (LCBO & Beer Store)
Restaurants
Fisherville Tavern • The Hen House Hoover’s Marina • Rainham Centre Dairy Bar Shelly’s Family Dining • Sunflower Cafe Fresh Market Kitchen
Things to do
Cruise Night Aug. 20 - Sept. 3 & 20 Illuminated Tractor Parade November Selkirk Provincial Park • Long Point Region Conservation Authority Cycle Lakeshore & Peaceful Backroads Selkirk Chamber of Commerce selkirkchamberofcommerce@gmail.com www.selkirk-ontario.com View historical and drone videos... Historical Tour... Read National Magazine Article on Selkirk and Haldimand County
308 Grand River St N, Paris • petvalu.com
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 81
WELLNESS MATTERS
My Journey to Wellness.
Actively navigating through life’s struggles can never be a straight line, but often it will lead to a life you were destined to live. BY Jessica Sharrow At moments in your life, you may find yourself thinking, “This is the worst day of my life” or “I don’t think I can survive anything else.” My life has been a tangle of obstacles, roadblocks, and struggles, and I often question my ability to get through them. As a single parent of two children, I often found myself silently screaming in frustration, exhaustion and occasionally hopelessness. I thought the night my son died was and would be the worst day of my life. A few years later, in my
second year at McMaster University, I was diagnosed with cancer and faced the possibility of leaving my daughter motherless. It was terrifying, but I survived and continued working towards my Social Work degree. But nothing could have prepared me for my most significant heartache. Watching my daughter struggle with her mental health due to the residual trauma of the life we had shared and watching her struggle to work within the mental health system was the epitome of helplessness.
Recognizing I could not mend her wounds was the most painful realization of my life, and all I could do was be there for her when she was ready. I quickly realized the mental health system was broken. I genuinely believe that mental health professionals start with the best intention but promptly lose focus through the institutional expectations and burnout due to lack of staff, support, and self-care. I remember asking a hospital social worker when my daughter would start therapy, only to be told that it was not an option there and that we would need to find it elsewhere. Patients were being medicated and sent on their way. To be clear, I am not against medication per se, but it should not be the only option, and when given, it should be done in conjunction with therapy.
People benefit by having someone sit with them as they work through their struggles and as they process how their unique story has impacted their ability to manage their stress. By only offering medication, people begin to believe their struggles result from a chemical imbalance, while often it is an inability to cope with societal expectations, grief, depression, and anxiety. As a result, patients slip farther away from health and well-being. I didn’t expect these moments to shape my future, but that is often how life goes. Isn’t it? Through my own experiences, I have learned that healing is rarely a straight, easily navigated path. Every time I survived something, strength and resilience were building within me, and my life purpose, responsibility and direction was becoming more evident. When the time was right, I got my Master of Social Work so I would have the opportunity to help people more effectively. A commitment to my wellness and a desire to help people has lead me to where I am today. Able to guide people as they travel through their journey to wellness, and help them process and grow from their struggles, heal from their pain, and move forward to where they want to be in life.
Jessica Sharrow MSW, RSW is a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, a daughter, a mother, a sister, an auntie, a friend, a survivor and the owner of Beautiful Wellness Counselling and Support Services. Her goal is to provide a unique counselling experience that supports people through their healing journey while encouraging the total wellness of mind, body and spirit. She received her Master of Social Work from Laurier University in an Indigenous Field of Study. Jessica has experienced her share of hard knocks, which inspired her studies in personal wellness. She believes that we all have the resilience and fire within us to survive. Still, sometimes we all benefit from a compassionate guide. beautifulwellness.ca 82 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Stone for the heart of your home
Brantford Granite & Quartz is a local family-owned and operated business in lovely Paris, Ontario who carries an impressive array of natural stone in our 5,000 sq ft showroom. We are committed to providing products and services that are competitively priced and of superior quality. Let our experienced staff guide you through designing your dream. From start to finish, we take pride in ensuring that your final product is perfectly crafted and will last the test of time and add value to not only your home but also your life!
535 Paris Rd, Paris 519-442-1400
bgq.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. FALL 2021 83
Coming soon! Destination Guide, Farm Gate & Farm Market Guide and an Arts, Culture & Heritage Guide
RSVP - Responsible, Safe, Visitation Plan. Visit brant.ca/RSVP for more information.
Brant Economic Development & Tourism fitl @BrantTourism | #LoveLocalBrant
brant.ca/RSVP