TOQUE 11

TOQUE REGIONAL LOOKBOOK

THE STAYCATION ISSUE

11

TOQUEMAGAZINE.COM

FARM DISTILLERY & BREWERY

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11.

R e le ase d S E P T. 2020

magazine TM CAi SEPULIS, partner art d irec tor. d esign & i l l ust rat i on

CHRIS TIESSEN, partner ed ito r. writin g & phot ography

Contributors: Erynn Hayden, Christina Mann, Sandra Peltier & Sonia Preisler.

Get in touch: hello@toque.ltd

Printed on 100% post-consumer ROLLAND ENVIRO paper.

This print run saved: 15 short tons of wood 86 trees 6392 gal water 255 10-minute showers 12,270 lb CO 2 22,178 km driven by car 141 MMBTU 688,870 60W light bulbs for one hour 61 lb NMVOC 27,370 km driven by car

TOQUEMAGAZINE.com @toqueLTD

‘THE WHOLE OBJECT OF TRAVEL IS NOT TO SET FOOT ON FOREIGN LAND; IT IS AT LAST TO SET FOOT ON ONE’S OWN COUNTRY AS A FOREIGN LAND.’ - GK CHESTERTON RESTLESS. IT’S A PRETTY GOOD DESCRIPTOR OF WHAT WE’VE ALL BECOME THIS YEAR. HONESTLY, IT’S HARD TO FEEL ANYTHING BUT FIDGETY, SQUIRRELLY, ILL AT EASE, AS WE’RE REMINDED ON THE REGULAR WHERE WE CAN’T GO, WHOM WE CAN’T VISIT, WHAT WE CAN’T DO. BUT WHILE LONG-DISTANCE VACATIONS AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL MIGHT BE – FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, AT LEAST – A THING OF THE PAST, IT’S IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT WANDERLUST HASN’T DIED AT THE HANDS OF COVID. THAT RESTLESSNESS CAN BE ADDRESSED. INDEED, FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS AND TRAVEL BANS NEED NOT REPRESENT DEAD ENDS BUT RATHER STARTING POINTS FOR EXPLORATION – ALBEIT CLOSER TO HOME. KICKOFFS FOR CANOE TRIPS ON ONTARIO’S LAKE AND RIVER SYSTEMS, FOR INSTANCE. PRECURSORS TO CAR TRIPS TO COTTAGES AND FISHING LODGES. OVERTURES TO PATIO NIGHTS IN DINING DISTRICTS AND PICNICS IN PARKS WITH YOUR INNER CIRCLE. PRELUDES TO HIKING OUTSIDE THE CITY AND BIKING BETWEEN CITIES. PROLOGUES TO EXPLORING THAT TOWN NEXT DOOR AND TO GETTING RE-ACQUAINTED WITH YOUR OWN BACKYARD. WE DON’T PRETEND TO SUGGEST THAT THINGS ARE BACK TO NORMAL. THAT IT’S ‘BUSINESS AS USUAL.’ THAT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE USURPED BY THOUGHTLESS FRIVOLITY. TO BE SURE, ON THESE NEARBY CAPERS RECKLESS ABANDON NEED NOT APPLY, AND MASKS – ALONGSIDE DISINFECTANT, HAND HYGIENE, AND SOCIAL DISTANCING – ARE PREREQUISITES FOR ADVENTURE. WHAT WE ARE SAYING IS THAT RESTLESSNESS HAS A REMEDY. AND IT’S CLOSER TO HOME THAN YOU PROBABLY IMAGINED. SO SCOUT FORTH. AND WELCOME TO THE STAYCATION ISSUE.

.ca

CONTENTS 9. EDITOR’S LETTER: STAYCATION ISSUE 14. HOLY COW CANOE COMPANY: BUILT FROM THE OUTSIDE IN 22. DAYTRIPPIN’ WITH 'BIG JOHN' LEACOCK 26. E NTICING PLACES: THREE MUST-VISIT FOOD & DRINK DESTINATIONS IN STEEL TOWN 32. PRODUCT SHOOT: BOOKS + WINE PAIRING 34. M EET YOUR MAKER: THE CONSCIOUS KITCHEN 38. D OWNTOWN CAMBRIDGE: A NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITY – RIPE FOR A VISIT 46. T HE WALPER HOTEL: RE-INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO YOUR OWN BACKYARD 48. U NCOVERING WELLINGTON COUNTY: HARMONY MEADOWS ALPACA FARM 54. # PHOTOSPREAD: FIVE BIKERS. FIVE BIKES. REMEDY FOR THIS COVID CRAZINESS 60. G ETTING TO KNOW: MARKET CO 66. OUTBACKING ACROSS ONTARIO: A FOUR-DAY SUCCESS STORY 82. I LLUSTRATED MAP: HARVEST TIME IN WELLINGTON COUNTY 84. #PHOTOSPREAD: COZY UP! 88. #DTK EATS: GLOBAL CUISINE ON A LOCAL SCENE 98. #PHOTOSPREAD: GAME ON! 100. ' NOT BUSINESS AS USUAL’: HOW HOME GROUP REALTY IS FOCUSING ON SAFETY IN THE AGE OF COVID 108. # PHOTOSPREAD: ROADTRIP SCRAPBOOK: A PHOTO ESSAY OF OUR REGION’S DRIVE-INS AND TAKE-OUTS 115. MEET YOUR MAKER: LAZA FOOD & BEVERAGES 117. G ETTING TO KNOW: LEE QUAILE – CHESTNUT PARK WEST 118. #PHOTOESSAY: PADDLING THE ARCHIPELAGO 126. EXPERT OPINION (INVESTMENT): MIKE HRYN 128. COMIC: GOOSE 130. COCKTAIL HOUR WITH SPRING MILL DISTILLERY

illustration: Erynn Hayden

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EST. 1892 - BERLIN, ON

482 BELMONT AVE W (AT GAGE) KITCHENER

FREE PARKING

@schreiters_home

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H

IG

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HO L Y C OW C AN O E CO M P A N Y : AY

BUILT FROM THE OUTSIDE IN

7 JO

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ES

B

AS

EL

IN

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WORDS BY CAI SEPULIS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

GUELPH/ERAMOSA

'WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE FACE OF CANADA AND STUDY THE GEOGRAPHY CAREFULLY, YOU COME AWAY WITH THE FEELING THAT GOD COULD HAVE DESIGNED THE CANOE FIRST AND THEN SET ABOUT TO CONCEIVE A LAND IN WHICH IT COULD FLOURISH.' - BILL MASON

outings with my family - my mom, dad, two brothers, and me. More recently, annual outtrips have been enjoyed with my wife, Sonia, our pup, Finn, and maybe some friends too.

I’ve even managed to get TOQUE Partner, Chris, out on the water. (In fact, TOQUE itself was conceived during a multi-day paddle Chris and I enjoyed at Massassauga a few years back.)

The simple pleasure of gliding across a quiet lake with nothing but one small vessel

It was a special pleasure for me, then, that

and self-power to get you from campsite

in late August Chris and I spent a morning

to portage, from campsite to campsite, is

chatting with Danny Arnott, head canoe

a ritual so dear to me. Ever since I was a

builder at Holy Cow Canoe Company, at the

kid, my summers have always been full

business’ shop. Located along the seven on

of backcountry canoe trips. I’d take these

the outskirts of Guelph between the city

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16 limits and the town of Rockwood, Holy Cow is a sort of ‘blink or you’ll miss it’ destination that’s only recognizable as a canoe workshop by the fleet of boats racked behind the small cinderblock outpost.

Oh, and by the bovine-painted boat standing at attention outside the front door.

‘You’ve basically got the most Canadian job in the world,’ Chris jokes to Danny as he leads us through the shop’s cluttered office and into the back workshop. It’s a sight to behold. Canoes – in one state of completion or another – are everywhere.

Completed boats hang from walls. Others, seemingly still far from being done, are in molds. A couple of fifteen-foot Prospectors to our right are balanced on wheeling saw horses. The space itself is fairly open concept, with different work stations around the place – for painting, mold work, and finishing.

There’s no heavy machinery here, but rather piles of hand tools laid around for the different stages of production.

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As Danny goes to work on a just-finished bright red fifteen-footer with a hand-held buffer, I admire the smooth bold colours of the canoes freshly pulled from their molds – bewildered by the fact that this little shop produces up to four canoes per week year-round, and curious about how a canoe is built in the first place. ‘They’re actually relatively easy to make,’ Danny tells us, modestly. ‘They’re essentially built from the outside in.’ Paint first in the mold. Then the Kevlar or fiberglass layers that are left to cure before the shell is pried out of the mold. Then gunnels and seating are added. Finish with a final polish and it’s done.

Simple, right?

Indeed, there’s nothing simple about the years of skill that inform this work. Founded as Trent Canoes in 1978 and purchased by Holy Cow owners Gulam Baloch and Naomi McQuade over two decades ago, this mighty little enterprise is supported by decades of experience. With an eight-week waiting list, Holy Cow sells to customers all across Canada.

'Everyone must believe in something. I believe I’ll go canoeing,' Henry David Thoreau once declared.

When I think back on years past, there’s no greater feeling of calm and pride than during time spent on lakes and rivers. Surviving high winds, mosquito-filled portages, and stormy water, too.

And celebrating the little extra bursts required to pull out of yourself to get through it.

Finally, though, canoeing is an experience, a condition, that evokes expressions of bliss. 'What sets a canoeing expedition apart,' Pierre Elliott Trudeau once said, 'is that it purifies you more rapidly and inescapably than any other.'

From the outside in.

The truly Canadian adventure.

.

Darryl Watty SALES REPRESENTATIVE

519.590.0579 watty@wattyway.ca wattyway.ca

REALTY SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO LIMITED, BROKERAGE

OFFICE: 519.804.7200

And it’s built right here

HOLY COW CANOE COMPANY 7890 HIGHWAY 7,GUELPH / ERAMOSA

holycowcanoe.com

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3131 King St E, Kitchener 519-748-9668

60

YEARS

From Our Family, Thank You For 60 Years.

DAYTRIPPIN’

A C O MMU NIT Y - MI NDED REALTOR SH AR E S H IS F AVOU R IT E SAT U R DAY DAY T R IP A R O U ND T HE REGI ON.

‘BIG JOHN’ LEACOCK GUELPH-BASED REALTOR

To most folks in Guelph who’ve volunteered on local boards, become involved with downtown renewal, or called the Hillside Festival their second home, ‘Big John’ Leacock is a familiar name. Like family, almost. A former Guelph Gryphons varsity basketball star and long-time resident of the Royal City, this local ambassador is always on the move.

Here's what a daytrippin’ Saturday looks like for ‘Big John’:

SAUND E R S B AKERY

1. An ideal Saturday begins with a drive in

104 MAIN ST S, ROCKWOOD

my ’77 Cougar down the '7' from Guelph to Rockwood for take-out breakfast at the venerable Saunders Bakery. I make the trip with Mauby – my black golden doodle.

At Saunders I grab a fresh-baked muffin or danish, add another just like it for Mauby, and keep it moving.

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2. Mauby and I hop back in the Merc and cruise the rolling country roads to Starkey for a hike. The main loop – a meandering four-kilometre trek through deciduous and evergreen forests – is packed with locals

S T A R K EY HILL 735 ARKELL RD, PUSLINCH

looking to escape suburbia. My note to self as we hit the mid-way mark of the trail: come back again on a quieter weekday afternoon.

3. After our hike, Mauby’s spent. He L IT T L E A S I A VE GAN & VEG ET A R IAN C O MFO R T FO O D 36 KING ST E, DUNDAS

sleeps beside me on the drive back to Guelph. I drop him home and head out to Little Asia in Dundas for lunch. I order corn fritters, green curry eggplant and coconut rice. Then, with a mouthful of bliss, I find some open space and watch the world go by.

4. After lunch I head back to Guelph for an afternoon pint at The Wooly – the Royal City’s front porch. I could just as well take my camper to a local conservation area with my kids for the night. Elora. Caledon.

Creemore. But they’re both out of town, so on this day it’s a Wellington SPA, a pound of honey garlic hot wings, and some good

TH E WOOLY P UB 176 WOOLWICH ST, GUELPH

conversation with Hillside buds Adrian and Ravi.

5. Now for a stroll around the core.

I’ve been involved with downtown

G UELP H CARI BBEAN CU I SI NE 45 CORK ST E, GUELPH

renewal for years and feel at home in the neighbourhood. I pop into shops on Quebec, greet business owners on Wyndham, and stop in to grab a Trinbago curry chicken roti at Guelph Caribbean Cuisine. Not for now, mind you, but for tomorrow’s Sunday lunch. How can anyone resist?

6. Soon enough, it’s time for dinner. I fly home to take Mauby for a jaunt around my St George’s Park neighbourhood before heading back to Rockwood for dinner at Heaven on 7. I love this re-purposed

H EAVEN ON 7 BI STR O & PUB 262 MAIN ST S, ROCKWOOD

century home with its quirky interior décor (replete with juke box) and fantastic food. I almost always go for the special of the day – usually fish or lamb.

7.

With the day winding down, I bomb

back to Guelph for a nightcap at Sip Club.

This downtown bar has two patios. I opt for the one out back – serene and out of the

SI P CLUB 91 WYNDHAM ST N, GUELPH

way. My go-to: a vodka soda. Enjoying my drink, I lean back in my chair, look at the stars, consider what a great region we live in, and feel blessed.

DAYTRIP, TAG & POST!

@TOQUELTD #TOQUEDT #TOQUEDAYTRIPPING

EN T I C I N G PL AC E S :

THREE MUST-VISIT FOOD & DRINK DESTINATIONS IN STEEL TOWN WORDS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

WANT THAT BIG CITY EXPERIENCE BUT DON’T WANT TO HIT UP THE CITY? HAMILTON’S YOUR PERFECT OPTION. NEXT TIME YOU FIND YOURSELF IN STEEL TOWN, INCLUDE ONE (OR ALL) OF THESE AMAZING SPOTS TO COMPLETE A KILLER DAYTRIP.

SYNONYM 328 James St N, Hamilton synonymshop.com

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There's a special delight that comes with spontaneously

Our recommendation: bring a friend or loved one,

discovering a cozy, nondescript food and drink spot

secure a table on the sidewalk, order something

tucked amongst the hustle and bustle of a big city

delectable to eat, add a chilled bottle of cider, and

with dishes that blow your mind. Take Synonym, for

settle back for an afternoon or evening of good

example – a killer neighbourhood wine bar, café, and

conversation, hearty laughter, and a span of people

bookshop that celebrates art, community, and culture

watching.

on Hamilton’s uber-hip James Street North.

What to order? When the TOQUE team visited, we

From its beautifully pared-down menu (featuring

grabbed a Smashed Cucumber salad (with cumin,

cheese and charcuterie boards, sandwiches on

Aleppo pepper, herbs, and cashews), Mortadella

house focaccia, sweets and salads, and a strong

sandwich (with giardiniera and house focaccia), Spiced

coffee and drink game) to its fantastically-minimalist

Carrot sandwich (with tofu, harissa, dill, and house

décor (featuring a gorgeous polished stone bar top,

focaccia), a couple of Americanos, and a bottle of

awesome tap set-up, ample greenery, white walls, and

Revel Cider’s ‘Ostara’ (made with golden plums and a

a cute sidewalk seating setup), Synonym is an exercise

massive amount of wild dandelions).

in minimalism perfected. Whether you’re copping a table on the sidewalk for a lingering afternoon lunch date with apps, food, and drinks, or grabbing a coffee and tahini brownie to-go, this spot is a charmed port of call.

IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Steeltown Garage Co – 8 Barton St E Waterfront Trail – 200 Harbour Front Dr Mulberry Coffeehouse – 193 James St N

We had an amazing time.

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B E RK ELEY N O RT H 31 King William St, Hamilton berkeleynorth.ca There’s no shortage of great food and drink spots

in town) and perused the user-friendly menu divided

along Hamilton’s King William Street drag. From The

into categories that include ‘Salads’, ‘Sandwiches’,

Mule (for tacos) to Hambrgr (for, you guessed it,

‘Pastas’, and ‘Favourites.’

burgers) to The French (for bistro eats) to Diplomat (for cocktails and private events), this strollable #hamont

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First up, from ‘Favourites’: ‘Mushroom Dumplings’

strip won’t leave your tummy wanting for more.

(with soy, miso, ginger, garlic, and chilli oil) and

Recently the TOQUE team checked out another King

mayo). Shareable. Flavourful. (We’ll be back for more

William staple: Berkeley North. And we’re sure glad we

of those dumplings soon.)

did.

‘Shrimp Tempura’ (with old bay seasoning & kewpie

Then a couple of Berkeley’s mains: the ‘Fried Chicken

From its hip interior (featuring exposed brick walls,

Sandwich’ (with garlic mayo, pickles, iceberg, hot

distressed furniture, a fully-stocked bar, retractable

buffalo sauce – a perfect combination of soft white

glass garage door, and an army of green plants) to

bun, crispy chicken, and zesty sauces), and ‘Short Rib

its intimate street-side patio (including protective

& Truffle Butter Pasta’ (with juicy button mushrooms,

umbrellas, strings of lights, and a trellis fence), the

sour cream and scallions) – beautifully paired and

place’s aesthetic is definitely on point. And the food?

impeccably prepared.

Fantastic.

We’ve always had ample incentive to hit up King

We reserved a table for 4:15pm – perfect for late-

William when we find ourselves in Steel Town. It's a

afternoon snacking and an early dinner. After settling

treat to discover one more reason to stop by.

into a cozy two-seater on the trellised patio (there are also tables outside the trellised area, and more on the street which was closed to traffic), we grabbed a couple pints of Hamilton’s own Merit Brewing 'Young Rival' IPA's (a favourite juice bomb every time we’re

IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Hamilton Farmers’ Market – 35 York Blvd Meza Caffe – 28 James St N, Unit 104 Merit Brewing – 107 James St N

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S H O RT Y ’ S PI Z Z A 1099 Cannon St E, Hamilton shortyspizza.ca I’m a sucker for Munchies’ ‘The Pizza Show’ on

phones, weighing dough, topping pies, and generally

YouTube – an online series in which Williamsburg

having a good time joking, laughing, yelling above the

Brooklyn’s pizzeria owner Frank Pinello travels the

din of the pizza-making process.

globe in search of the perfect slice. There’s something about getting a glimpse inside the world’s best pizza joints – from Di Fara and Lucali’s in Brooklyn to the Motor City’s Buddy’s Pizzeria to Lou Malnati’s in

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Chicago – that can have me waste an afternoon glued to a screen. There’s much to love about a great pizza place. The personalities who run them. The pies these

During COVID Shorty’s is open for takeout and delivery, and offers just full pies – which isn’t a bad thing since after your first bite it’s awful hard to eat only one slice.

From its ‘NY Cheese’ pizza (sauce, mozzarella blend) to its ‘White’ pie (olive oil, mozzarella, garlic ricotta, arugula, lemon zest, pesto, sesame seed crust),

characters craft. The invariably stripped-down décor.

Shorty’s projects the New York-style pizza lover’s

Imagine my excitement, then, when TOQUE’s Cai

Ribbon to Red Circle’s Iron Horse IPA) and organic

Sepulis and I discovered Shorty’s Pizza – a New York-

wines, the joint’s got everything you want.

style pizza joint located along Hamilton’s Cannon Street East. The minute you step in the door Shorty's will have you feeling as though you’ve traveled in

dream. And with a full array of brew (from Pabst Blue

So grab a pie, find the nearest green space, and make the most of these most perfect days.

space and time to the New York of Spike Lee’s ‘Do The Right Thing’ or Larry Clark’s ‘Kids’.

Shorty’s is a no-guff establishment – a pizza business that means business. Look around the place and you’ll see what I mean. The stacks of empty pizza boxes ready to be packed and delivered. The massive ovens that dominate the open kitchen. The small army of tattooed pizza folk working the counter, answering

IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Osten Beerhall – 1103 Cannon St E Murray’s Farm Butcher Shoppe – 182 Ottawa St N The Cannon – 179 Ottawa St N

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MEET YOUR MAKER

F EEL I N G T H E S T R A I N OF A B U S Y L I F ES T Y L E? ON E OF T H E KEY S T O EA TI NG 34

THE CONSCIOUS KITCHEN theconsciouskitchenguelph.com M OS T U N D ER R A T E D V E G E T A B LE

W EL L I S EN S U R I N G Y OU R F R I D G E I S W EL L S T O C KED W I T H Q U I C K, T A S T Y , AND N U T R I T I OU S R EA D Y - T O- G O M EA L S Y OU C A N G R A B O N T H E F L Y . L U C KY F OR U S,

A fresh, crisp, in-season cucumber

W E H A V E G U EL P H ’S T H E C ON S C I O U S

W H ERE D O YO U E A T WHE N Y O U

KI T C H EN . OW N ED A N D O P ER A T ED B Y

NE E D A B REA K ?

Tin Roof Cafe in Erin – they have

C EL ES T E L O P R EI A T O , T H E C O N S C I O US

the best vegan cookies

KI T C H EN C R A F T S OR G A N I C I N G R ED I E NTS

T OOL YOU C A N ’ T B E WI TH O U T?

I N T O T A N T A L I Z I N G F R ES H V EG A N D I SHES

Vitamix or a good knife to chop 200

H I G H L I G H T I N G O U R R EG I ON ’S B ES T .

lbs of produce each week F AV OU RI T E W A Y TO E A T TO MA TO E S

F EA T U R I N G A R OT A T I N G M EN U OF W E EKL Y

On a good piece of sourdough with

P R EP P ED MEA L S , R EC I P E B OX ES , A N D

lots of sea salt & fresh basil

Z ER O- W A S T E G R O C ER Y , T H E C ON S C I O US KI T C H EN D EL I V ER S H U N D R ED S OF MEAL S T O F A M I L I ES EA C H W EEK. C A P R ES E S AL AD W I T H OR Z O. G R I L L ED A R T I C H O KE R I SO TTO .

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DIM THE LIGHTS

So that I can enjoy my snoozing! Smart lighting and blinds means my human can control them from their phone, without disturbing our snuggle-sesh.

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Apparently all of our doors have smart locks, plus our garage door is smart too!

Between those, the security cameras and water sensor, our home (and all of my toys) are kept safe when I’m out taking my human for a walk.

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I’m a bit fussy when it comes to my home - it needs to be the perfect temperature allyear round or I just can’t get comfortable!

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Cambridge Mill

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D OW NT OW N C AM B R I DG E : A NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITY – RIPE FOR A VISIT WORDS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN ‘I can’t believe we haven’t eaten here before,’

I push my knife into the squishy hunk of

I remark to Cai, my ever-present TOQUE

burrata, spread it onto a slice of grilled bread,

co-pilot, as I carefully spoon a dollop of

top it with some compote, and go to town.

horseradish onto a generous-sized oyster and

Here – in this expansive open-air dining room,

lift it to my mouth. Slurping back the briny

on the banks of the mighty Grand River, at

goodness, I add: ‘I already can’t wait to come

the exquisitely-restored Cambridge Mill in

back.’ I chase down the oyster with a gulp of

historic Galt.

Goose Island IPA and scan the plethora of dishes laid out in front of us – eager for my next bite.

Our mission on this Friday in mid-July is clear – and extends beyond this sumptuous lunch at the Mill. It’s an exercise of exploration

‘Have you tried the burrata?’, asks Cai, noting

and discovery: of venturing forth from our

my searching gaze. ‘It’s pretty incredible.’

respective homes in Guelph and Elora to

Served with summer berries, compote, and

scout the idyllic quarters of downtown

grilled bread, this dish of fresh cheese made

Cambridge. For its historic architecture.

from mozzarella and cream is always a good

Quaint galleries. Killer boutiques. Picturesque

pick. But there are so many choices. Crispy

river walks. Good eats. And sweet watering

calamari with pickled jalapeno, cilantro,

holes. Indeed, during these uncertain times,

and chili sauce. Buttermilk fried chicken

when far-flung summer travel has (for now)

bites with spicy aioli. Barbacoa and Chicken

become a thing of the past, adventures much

Fried Mushroom Tacos with avocado crema,

closer to home are the order of the day. And

pickled chilies, red onion, cilantro, and

downtown Cambridge – also referred to by

lime. And, of course, the oysters – served

many as ‘historic Galt’ – is a perfect daytrip

with lemon, mignonette, hot sauce, and

destination.

horseradish.

*

* *

Cambridge Mill

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Grand River Pedestrian Bridge

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Our economy is fuelled by local businesses.

Cai and I arrive downtown mid-morning – having taken the (not so scenic) twenty-four from Guelph.

It’s revelatory, really: how quickly the seemingly never-ending strip malls, fast food joints, and gas stations of this drab thoroughfare make way for the elegant stone buildings, inviting riverfront properties, and shop-filled streets of historic Galt.

Turning off the twenty-four onto Water St North, we pass Galt Collegiate (a fantastical heritage building that could double as Hogwarts in any Harry Potter saga), and then past the Mill (where we’ll find ourselves for the aforementioned lunch), and park along Ainslie St South – next to Monigram Coffee Roasters.

A staple of the downtown Cambridge community since it first opened almost a decade ago, Monigram (this, its primary location, tucked into a re-purposed century-old red brick) remains an essential fueling station for any trip into Galt.

Americanos in hand, we meander along Ainslie – site of a handful of Galt’s gems. Along the way, we poke our heads in at Art of Home (a favourite home and lifestyle boutique that’s become something of a destination for Cai’s wife, Sonia), The Witty & Co (whose large assortment of whimsical glassware, quirky lifestyle accoutrements, hot

Elaine Martin, Owner Cambridge School of Flowers

Cedar Lake Studio

42

sauces, bartending essentials, bonsai trees, and irreverent matchboxes always offers a surprise), and no words (a curated gallery space and artisan shop with works from local artists and artisans).

We pop in at Cedar Lake Studio – yet another beautifullycurated space along the Ainslie corridor – where Cai immediately recognizes, hanging on the far wall of the gallery, a number of framed prints by Guelph-based artist and printmaker, Clive Lewis. ‘I love his work,’ Cai remarks to Cedar Lake proprietor, Susan Benton, as she strolls towards the Lewis display. Ontario bank barns in black-and-white. A row of silos standing at attention in front of a deep blue sky. A sepia-toned detail of a hay trolley. ‘I’ve got one of his prints at home,’ she reminds me, ‘of a woman in a tub.’ A tribute to the eclectic nature of Lewis's work.

I peel away from Cai and Susan, who are busy chatting, to explore the space. The array of stained glass, jewellery, carvings and sculptures, ceramics and more – all by Canadian artists and artisans – is impressive. But it's the bold colours and geometric graphics on a hand-painted canoe paddle by Quebec artist Annie Lajeunesse that seriously draws me in, and it’s not long before I’m lost in the piece. Ever vigilant, Susan follows my gaze. ‘It can be used in the water or hung as a work of art,’ she assures me. I picture the paddle hanging above my collection of bikes – or maybe beside the artisanalcrafted Norquay paddle I received as a gift last year.

It’s time for lunch at the Mill. On our walk toward the dazzling riverside destination whose expansive quarried stone structure dates back to 1844, we make side excursions to Phidon Pens (where Cai grabs a few Field Notes journals and I select a new LAMY Safari pen for my fountain pen-wielding mom), and Cambridge School of Flowers (where I snap up a sweet set of garden sheers for my honey). We pause in front of the gorgeous alleyway beside the flower shop – converted by shop owner Elaine Martin into a rustic, plant-filled space ideal for photo shoots and Instagram. ‘We've had a number of wedding photographers bring couples here on their special day,’ Elaine tells us. ‘I'm happy it's become something of a local attraction.’

A few minutes later, Cai and I arrive at the Mill. We eat. Enjoy.

Linger. Chat. But you’ve read all about it already. Just make a reservation. See (and taste) for yourself. You’ll surely share our delight.

Filled to the brim with oysters and calamari and burrata and other good stuff, we agree to walk off our lunch. We stroll from the Mill through Mill Race Park and cross the Grand

Invest in the people, products and causes that keep our community strong.

The Old Post Office

44

Thirteen Food & Beverage

at the Main Street bridge. Halfway across the bridge, Cai stops. I watch as she scans the cityscape – first left, then right, then ahead, and behind. ‘From this vantage point,’ she remarks, ‘you can really see how far downtown Cambridge has come.’

I follow her gaze. To our left, the recently-restored Old Post Office abuts the river. A gorgeous amalgam of historic stone and bold glass design, this architectural treasure now serves as the Idea Exchange’s impressive digital library. To our right, on the banks just across the river, looms the University of Waterloo’s School of Architecture.

Housed in the former Riverside Silk Mill building, the School enjoys the distinction of being one of the best architectural programs in the country – and has been a fantastic addition to the downtown community since landing here just over fifteen years ago. Behind us, in the distance, are stone ruins used for the Hulu-produced television adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s ‘A Handmaid’s Tale.’ And straight ahead, about two hundred metres up river, the newly-opened Pedestrian Bridge spans the Grand. A tangible sign that the City is growing, expanding, listening to the wants and desires of an energized populace eager to experience the resurgence of this downtown core.

Cai and I spend the rest of our day as tourists do. We stroll through the Cambridge Sculpture Garden past HIP Development’s emergent Gaslight District – a massive mixed development of re-adapted foundry, condo towers, commercial space, and more. We pop in at Foundry

SHOP LOCAL

Brewing to share a flight and then cross back over the Grand at the Pedestrian Bridge. We peek into EVO Kitchen, and stop by No Udder for a vegan cone. Eventually, we end up on the patio of Thirteen Food & Beverage for one last pint – a Mikkeller IPA for Cai and a Wellington Upside IPA for me.

It’s been a full day. And a successful one too. As I pop back gear into my camera bag, I notice the delicate garden sheers and the LAMY pen I picked up along the way.

Specialized items I wouldn’t easily find anywhere else.

I think back to the shopping and food and architecture and drinks we’ve just enjoyed. And I’m thankful for this

.

place. Downtown Cambridge. Historic Galt. A neighbouring community – perfectly ripe for a visit

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TheMactaggartHrynTeam.com Richardson GMP Limited, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

Richardson and GMP are registered trademarks of their respective owners used under license by Richardson GMP Limited.

THE W AL PER H OT E L :

RE-INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO YOUR OWN BACKYARD PREAMBLE & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

46 Feeling adventurous? Then it’s time for you to book

The Walper is the quintessential destination for

a night at The Walper Hotel, located in the heart

your next staycation. Steps from restaurants,

of downtown Kitchener, and choose from one of

galleries, parks, and boutiques, the hotel is a

its new experiential packages. Like the ‘Celebrate

perfect springboard to adventure. And, after

Package’, which includes a king room replete with

your day spent adventuring, it also serves as the

bottle of bubbly, grab ‘n go breakfast, twenty-five

ultimate retreat. Home to The Barrister’s Lounge,

downtown dollars to spend at your favourite #DTK

The Lokal bar, TWH Social (the hotel’s farm-to-

destination, and a couple of The Walper’s bicycles

table restaurant), a brand new gym, and rooms

for a tour around town – fully-loaded picnic basket

whose minimalist design, chic décor, and great

included.

views of the city will leave you swooning, you

Freshly-made sandwiches. Creamy potato salad.

really won’t want to leave.

Fresh salads, fruit cups, and vegetables with

So

hummus. De-alcoholized sparkling wine. And a

And re-introduce yourself to your own backyard.

pair of desserts. A perfect meal for lunch in the park – either underneath the historic clock tower of Kitchener’s former City Hall, or at water’s edge under the shade of the park’s mature canopy.

pamper

yourself.

Recharge

your

soul.

47

UNCOVERING WELLINGTON COUNTY

HARMONY MEADOWS ALPACA FARM 48

BELWOOD

‘There’s nothing to worry about,’ Kristi tells me as I gingerly walk through the gate and into the small herd.

‘They’re used to people.’ Sure enough, within seconds I’m surrounded by at least a dozen alpacas – all sniffing and nudging and staring at me with their massive, expressive eyes. They look like a cross between a standard poodle and small camel, I think to myself. Such amazing creatures.

Kristi Mercier and her husband, Rob, have been operating Harmony Meadows Alpaca Farm in Belwood for over a decade now. With a herd of over thirty alpacas (along with a stable of Labrador Retrievers), they keep busy. ‘We shear the herd once a year,’ Kristi tells me as we walk from the females toward the males (kept apart for obvious reasons), ‘and sell alpaca fibre and products at our farm store, the Guelph Farmers Market, and online too.’ Products like alpaca

ponchos, socks, shawls, blankets, yarn, and more. ‘And we host tours as well,’ notes Kristi. ‘People are so curious about alpacas – we love inviting folks right into the pasture to hang out with them.’

Like so many other remarkable farms and food businesses that dot Guelph and Wellington County, Kristi and Rob’s Harmony Meadows is a partner of Taste Real – a County of Wellington program that promotes local food and facilitates valuable connections among food businesses, consumers, and farmers.

Book your visit with the alpacas at harmonymeadowsalpaca.ca, and learn more about Taste Real at tastereal.ca

.

DI Y: ALPACA BIRD NESTING BALL KIT Looking for something special for your backyard birds?

Make them a nesting ball – perfect for building their next home.

EACH KIT INCLUDES:

T O P T EN T O U R A N D T A ST E A D V EN T U R ES IN W EL L I N G T O N CO U N TY

1.

Stop for baked treats at Jess For You Café and Baked Goods, Misty Meadows Country Market, or Harriston Bakery

• 4” vine/rattan ball

•a lpaca fibre (in different colours, just for fun) to fill the ball

• jute twine for hanging

2.

Pick your own organic apples and grab some cider at

3.

Find your way through a corn maze and reward

Spring Mead Farm

yourself with a butter tart at Strom’s Farm and Bakery

WHAT TO DO: • L oop twine around a sturdy stem in the ball and tie off ends so the ball will be ready to hang • T uck the fibre into the ball using your finger or a pencil (chopsticks work great too) depending on the size of the holes • S tuff the fibre in from different angles, leaving little tufts sticking out to get the birds' attention • H ang from a tree limb or on a shrub and enjoy the birds' antics as they pull out tufts of alpaca fibre for their nests

Birds love to line their nests with soft, warm alpaca fibre.

It’s naturally water repellent and, when exposed to the elements, it dries back to its natural soft state. The nesting ball is sturdy enough to stay out all year.

DIY kits are available from Harmony Meadows Alpaca (or you can buy nesting balls ready-made too).

4.

5.

Choose your favourite pumpkin at Thatcher Farms, Calehill Farm or Mosborough Farm Market Enjoy home-made apple fritters at Union Market Square or an apple turnover from Tigchelaar Apple Farm

6.

Grab a Local Food Map or check the Taste Real website to find ingredients for an all-local Thanksgiving meal

7.

8.

9.

10.

Stop, shop and sample fruit wines and hard cider at Cox Creek Cellars or Heartwood Farm and Cidery Extend BBQ season and pick up meat specialties at Meat the Butcher, Valeriote’s Market or Trotter’s Butcher Shop Start your Saturday by shopping for local foods at the Elora or Guelph Farmers’ Market Go on a fall hike and reward yourself with a cup of coffee at the Café at the Old Post or Planet Bean Coffee

UPCOMING TASTE REAL EVENTS FALL RU RAL ROMP SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 12 (THANKSGIVING WEEKEND) Enjoy in-person and virtual farm tours, food experiences, and fall foods in Wellington County and Guelph.

Find local food, experiences and events in Wellington County at tastereal.ca

THERE IS NO ‘ B A C K T O N O R M A L ’.

WE’RE CHANGING THE WAY WE DO REAL ESTATE,

FOR GOOD.

Times are certainly not business-as-usual, and so we have implemented new guidelines for how our brokerage does business. Our singular purpose is to ensure the health and safety of our clients, our team and the global community, while helping our clients stay on track with their real estate goals.

Read our new Guide to Buying and Selling During COVID-19 at homegrouprealty.ca/covid-19

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THERE’S NO BEING PASSED AROUND AT THE IDEALERSHIP. At Pfaff Subaru, there’s no being handed around, no wondering if you got the best deal, and no haggling price in-person or ever. Just honest customer service that actually serves you, the customer.

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One, Two & Three Bedroom Condos

#PHOTOSPREAD

FIVE BIKERS. FIVE BIKES. REMEDY FOR THIS COVID CRAZINESS PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

54

55

TRIS R E D W OO D Works at Steeltown Garage Co, Hamilton Rides a custom 1983 Yamaha XS650 chopper

56

P A R KE R M URA K A MI Owns Murakami Pirate, Kitchener Rides a 1949 Harley Davidson 125 ‘Hummer’

57

CA I S E P U L IS Founding Partner at TOQUE Limited, Guelph Rides a 2015 Royal Enfield Classic 500

58

AN D Y C OX Owns King Street Cycles, Waterloo Rides a highly-modified 1967 Norton Atlas, or ‘Domiracer’

59

H A R R Y F OL LO N Slings beers for Steamwhistle Brewing, Guelph Rides a 2008 Harley Davidson Night Train

60 60 60

GETTING TO KNOW:

60

MARKET CO INTERVIEW & PHOTOS BY CAI SEPULIS

' O U R S L O GA N I S SI T-SI P-SH OP, ' DE J AN A P OG R M ILIOVIC T E LLS M E WH E N WE SIT DO WN T O CH AT ABOUT MARK ET CO, H E R U N IQU E CAF É / B OU T IQU E IN IN G U E LP H ’ S M A RKE T S Q UARE TH AT FEATURES A B IT OF E VE R Y T H IN G F R OM DR IN KS, F OOD A ND CO FFE E TO J EWELLERY, CLOTH I N G AN D F OOT WE AR . H AVIN G GR OWN U P IN BO S NIA , WHERE SH E WATCH ED H ER P AR E N T S R U N T H E IR OWN H IGH -E N D B OU T IQ UE F EA T U RING ONLY I NDEPENDENT DESIG N E R S, DE J AN A ALWAY S DR E AM E D OF OP E N I N G H E R O WN S IMI LAR-STYLE BOUTI QUE IN CAN ADA WIT H H E R H U SB AN D, DR AGAN . I W A S EA GE R T O HEAR MORE. H ERE’S WH AT I LE AR N E D:

WHAT MAKES MARKET CO SPECIAL? At Market Co we work directly with independent designers who release very small collections and unique pieces. Our café and bar are incorporated into the whole concept. You can come in, have an amazing latte or glass of wine with a friend, and just enjoy beautiful things.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE MARKET CO’S STYLE? Market Co’s style is contemporary. We feature different, unique styles that complement a woman’s figure. We collaborate with our designers throughout, from brainstorming and initial drawings to production.

WHAT ARE SOME FAVORITE BRANDS/DESIGNERS YOU CARRY? We represent Canadian and world designers. The Zeyzani collection – by far the most comfortable footwear ever – is exclusive to Market Co. Because everything they produce is hand crafted, our clients have the opportunity to contribute to the design of their own shoes and boots.

In terms of clothing designers, we work with Hillary MacMillan, Vasiliki, Inna Clothing Co., DNK Studio, Fasada Studio, Scarlett, Miro Misljen. We are always adding new collections and introducing new and emerging designers.

WHAT MAKES YOUR REGULAR CUSTOMERS KEEP COMING BACK? Dragan and I treat our clients like family. We connect with everyone who enters our doors. Our goal is to create a very relaxed, almost home-like atmosphere and I believe we truly accomplish that.

Our regulars come back over and over again to experience the difference.

WHAT IS YOUR MANTRA WHEN IT COMES TO CLOTHING? To me, dressing is an art. I’ve always had an eye for style and expression. I believe in clothes that complement a woman's body type and nourish her feminine side. Playing with colours is definitely important. I find that when I’m in not such a great mood I’ll always choose black and gray, but truly the moment I put on a dress in a vibrant colour, the smile on my face just appears on its own.

ANY TIPS OR UNDERRATED ACCESSORY TO HELP STYLE-UP AN OUTFIT? I think silk scarves are underrated. Add a little funky silk scarf

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around your neck, and funky earrings, and your outfit will rock

MARKET CO 30 CARDEN ST, GUELPH

marketco.ca

519.885.2020

SHOPINSIGHT.CA

49 ALBERT ST. WATERLOO

62

JOSHUA A very recent Digital Media Marketing post-grad from George Brown, Joshua is currently looking to enter the field - anyone hiring!? He loves to play basketball, play with his Nintendo Switch and play around with photography. When he isn't playing, he's reading about playing.

He is wearing the Spam Cam 003 Honi from TAVAT

Welcome to Beechwood Collection.

63

Surrounded by tree-lined streets and nestled next to a lush park, Beechwood Collection offers a unique opportunity to live in one of Guelph’s best kept secrets. Located close to downtown, these timeless townhomes are surrounded by nature and close to some of the city’s top amenities. Cherish your home, celebrate your community and love where you live, with Beechwood Collection. Available from the $500’s. contemporary vibrant rare

Sandra Aveiro, New Home Sales Representative saveiro@granitehomes.ca | (519) 222-3988 beechwoodcollection.ca

Rediscover

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your own backyard

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Escape the every day with our specially curated seasonal and mid-week packages that bring out the best Elora has to offer. www.eloramill.ca | 519-846-8464

OUTBACKING ACROSS ONTARIO: 66

A FOUR -D AY S UC C E S S S T O R Y WORDS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN Chapter One: The Ending

equipment, and pull the sweet Subie into an empty spot alongside my TOQUE truck –

Having just pulled into Pfaff Subaru, a

which I’d left parked at the dealership for the

car dealership nestled amongst a small

duration of our trip.

cluster of dealerships along Guelph’s north end Woodlawn corridor, I scan the

I get out of the wagon, pop the rear lid with

Outback’s interior. It doesn’t take me long

the fob, and begin transferring luggage

to register evidence of the journey we’ve

(Patagonia duffle, Canada West boots, laptop

just experienced. The sandy carpets. Empty

bag, camera gear) from the Outback to my

water containers. Crumpled gas station

truck. While I reach way into the Subaru’s

receipts. Crumbs. (So many crumbs.) And

cavernous trunk for a runaway Croc, I hear

the trip odometer – which, in the past hour,

a familiar voice from somewhere behind

has edged northward of twelve hundred

me: ‘How was the trip? Did the car serve you

clicks. I look behind me and note my camera

well?’ I turn around, Croc in hand, to find Pfaff

gear strewn about on the caramel-coloured

Subaru General Manager Paul Cullen walking

leather back seats. A lens here. Body there.

toward me. ‘From your Instagram,’ he adds, ‘it

Behind the front passenger seat I spot

looks like Cai and you had a fantastic time.’ I

my irresponsibly uncapped fourteen mil

grin. Broadly.

rolling around on the carpeted floor. I make a mental note to take better care of my

Where to even begin?

Chapter Two: The Beginning

After making a requisite pit stop at Market Fresh in downtown Guelph for trip goodies

It’s Tuesday morning. Early August. When I

(cherries, apples, meat sticks, hummus,

turn onto TOQUE Partner Cai Sepulis’ street

babybels, chips, local ground coffee) we

in Guelph’s Exhibition Park neighbourhood I

pull out of town and cannonball to our first

see that she’s already waiting for me at the

destination: Taqueria El Norte in Alliston

end of her driveway – loaded down with gear.

(about 40 minutes north-east of Orangeville)

Tan Filson bag. Redwing boots. A large YETI

for lunch. This place was recommended to us

cooler stocked with a selection of colourful

by Chef Ryan Goodfellow (whom most of you

cans from Royal City, Elora, and Willibald

know and love as co-founder of Goodfellows

breweries. A bottle of Spring Mill Distillery

Field to Fork in Rockwood) when we visited

gin. ‘Nice car,’ she notes as I help her load up.

him some weeks ago at his current gig,

‘I can’t believe they gave it to us,’ I reply. ‘It’s

Murray’s Farm & Butcher Shoppe in Hamilton.

like a WRX STI, but for adults,’ I add, alluding to my all-time favourite Subaru – a three

This quaint little spot is Alliston’s best kept

hundred-plus horsepower brute that’s still a

secret, for sure. With a pared down menu

fave of the hooligan-ish younger set.

featuring tacos, tostadas, and mulitas, a beer fridge teeming with brews from Blood

I summon Cai to the driver’s side. ‘Check this

Brothers, Bellwoods, Left Field, and more,

out,’ I exclaim enthusiastically while pointing

and a cute outdoor patio replete with garden

at the gauge cluster. The odometer reads

boxes growing produce and herbs for the

seventy-one kilometres. Total. ‘It’s brand new.’

joint, Taqueria El Norte is an absolute must-

And it’s ours for the next four days.

visit for any fan of authentic Mexican streetstyle cuisine. After perusing the menu, we settle on tacos (pork shoulder braised in citrus with cilantro, onion and salsa verde;

67

Taqueria El Norte, Alliston ON

68 roast flat iron steak with guacamole, cremini mushrooms, queso fresco, aioli and pickled jalapenos; ancho braised chuck with lime crema and pickled cabbage, to name a few), pair them with Bellwoods’ Witch Shark DIPAs, find a sun-drenched spot on the patio, and dig in. Taco Tuesday has never been this good.

After lunch, we hit the road again. Our destination: a treehouse somewhere in the Haliburton Highlands where we’ll spend the night. And along the way: quick stops at Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery in Barrie to grab some milkshake IPAs, the legendary Webers on highway eleven just outside Orillia for burgers and shakes, and Boshkung Social (a satellite of Boshkung Brewing Co) in Minden for pints on the place’s awesome patio overlooking the Gull River. A lateafternoon highlight: watching locals gather on the Social’s patio for Tuesday night bingo – hosted over radio across Haliburton County on Canoe FM.

Fort Treehouse Co, Haliburton Highlands

69 Chapter Three: Above The Clouds

Everything about this place is perfection.

The half-vaulted ceiling. Plywood-paneled

‘You have to check out this view,’ Cai beckons

walls (with perfectly uniform panel gaps).

to me from inside the treehouse – about six

Modular gas fireplace. Portable record player

hours after our blissful taco lunch. I can’t

(with collection of classic folk LPs). Sleek

imagine it’s any better than mine, I think to

bathroom – all grey and glass with a head-

myself as I peer out into the dusky forest

to-toe window in the shower overlooking a

canopy from my lovely perch on this seeming-

sea of conifers. And, most incredibly, the fact

floating structure’s balcony – built at least

that this structure really is a tree house that’s

a couple dozen feet in the air. Soothing

been built around, and supported by, a stout

aromas of pine fill my senses as I stand up

living tree. All minimal. And angular. And

from my deck chair – all minimalist wood

photogenic.

and webbing – and head indoors to see what all the fuss is about. Expecting Cai to be

Our evening at Fort Treehouse Co unfolds as

checking out some other idyllic forest view

it should – with time spent relaxing on the

from one of the structure’s massive windows,

deck above strings of twinkle lights, chilling

I’m instead surprised to find her looking up

with tallboys by a fire we build down below

toward the place’s second-storey loft. I join

and, eventually, bedtime. As Cai climbs the

her. And look up. And see what she sees. The

ladder to the place’s king size bed, I sprawl

glorious architectural design and exquisite

out on a plush leather couch in the main

execution of this most fantastical place: Fort

room beneath a two-storey window. It doesn’t

Treehouse Co, hidden away somewhere in

take long to fall asleep here – above the

the Highlands.

forest floor and under a moonlit sky.

72 Fort Treehouse Co, Haliburton Highlands

The next morning, I awake to find Cai making coffee in her AeroPress. I shake off my sleep, pour a cuppa, and wander out onto the deck for this most perfect breakfast in the trees.

Soon after, we’re all packed up and ready to boogie. As Cai pulls the Outback down the gravel driveway onto the back road, I catch a glimpse of the treehouse through the forest.

I pull out my phone, open Spotify, and search for Gang Starr’s classic, ‘Above The Clouds’ – a most perfect anthem to celebrate what’s been a most splendid stay.

Chapter Four: Fishing, Anyone?

‘There’s world-record muskies in this part of the river,’ our host, Terry, yells over the sound of splashing waves and the Yamaha outboard motor as we cross the upper French River from Jimmy’s Marina (part of the Dokis First Nation reserve and community) to our destination: The Tilted Toque Wilderness Lodge. ‘If you want to do some muskie fishing later,’ he adds, ‘just let me know.’ I steal a glance at Cai. I’ve never fished before, and don’t really feel the need to start now trying to catch (and release) sixty-inch river monsters. And yet, I think to myself, when in Rome.

Fast forward a few hours and Cai and I are back from my first fishing excursion. And while neither of us caught anything (I crossed my fingers hoping I wouldn’t, as I was deathly afraid of what to do if there was ever a tug on my line), I loved the experience. And I absolutely love The Tilted Toque. Located on the smooth rocky shoreline of the French River, it’s home to a handful of fully-furnished cabins, a fantastic lodge (with walls lined with taxidermied fish and game), fish cleaning hut, long main deck extending into the glorious French River, and amazing staff. Cai and I spend the afternoon seated at the end of the deck on brightly-painted Muskoka chairs, watching a family from Fergus, of all places, fish from off the end of the long wooden

73

Heading to The Tilted Toque Wilderness Lodge, Upper French River

74

structure. I crack a Willibald ‘Three Hands’

sour cream, cumin salt, pickled onions, and a

Double IPA, take a sip, and mutter to myself:

splash of lime, she pops it in her mouth. It’s

‘I could live here forever.’ Cai, overhearing my

our last full day of this adventure, and Cai and

muttering, replies with a chuckle: ‘And you

I have just met up with close friend Michael

don’t even fish.’

Oosterveld (owner of Guelph’s Fixed Gear Brewing) and Cai’s wife, Sonia, for lunch at Fat

Once the sun sets, Cai and I relax on the

Sparrow at Killbear – a restaurant just opened

deck of our cabin. In front of us, about

at Killbear Marina by pal (and Waterloo

twenty yards away, just next to the French,

Region celebrity chef) Nick Benninger. While

lodge patrons chat and laugh the night away

Sonia’s driven up from Guelph, Michael’s

around a bonfire. We eventually head inside

boated in from his cottage in the archipelago

and curl up to sleep in our respective beds.

off the east coast of Georgian Bay.

A cool breeze comes off the river and in through our open windows. It’s perfect. This

Seated on the restaurant’s second-storey

place is just perfect. I drift off to sleep in mere

patio, we’re entranced by the wonderful views

minutes – with dreams of Subaru Outbacks,

of the marina below. And even more so, the

record-setting muskies, and treehouses

food. Our dishes hit the spot: Chicken Sammy

dancing companionably in my head.

(fried chicken, garlic dill aioli, picked onion), Fish and Chips (Trestle Brewing IPA-battered

Chapter Five: A Taste of Home at Killbear

seasonal fish, fries, slaw, tartar), Crispy Fish

Marina

Tacos (with guac, pickled jalapenos, fresh herbs, slaw, and three-chili sour cream), and

‘This smoked salmon is awesome,’ Cai

the aforementioned Cold Smoked Salmon.

remarks as she slices herself another bit.

Each bite a treat, paired with a few Fixed Gear

After surveying her morsel to make sure she's

tall cans. Afterwards we load onto Michael’s

topped it with crispy batter bits, three-chili

boat, and cruise out to his private island in the archipelago for our last night.

75

The Tilted Toque Wilderness Lodge, Upper French River

Michael’s cottage, Archipelago, Georgian Bay

76 Fish Tacos, Fat Sparrow at Killbear

Chapter Six: The Ending – Again Cruising down the four hundred on my way back home, I’m feeling refreshed. Rejuvenated. Ready to tackle this world and all its insanity. With Michael back at his cottage (after having dropped us off at the marina) and Cai and Sonia driving the TOQUE Rav home, I’m alone in this Outback. I scan the interior and mentally catalogue palpable evidence of the journey we’ve just experienced.

Each item offers me a story about getting away.

I turn off the cruise control, crack the sunroof, and push the pedal of this adventure wagon closer to the floor.

It may not be a WRX STI, I think to myself, but I can still

.

be a bit of a hooligan. A free spirit. Outbacking across Ontario

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82

83

Ateliers Sneakers

Wooden Scoop

84

Lollia Shea Butter Handcreme

Gold Metal Spoons

Cozy up!

Looking to cozy up your home? Then be sure to drop by Cambridge's Art of Home for all your home dÊcor and gift requisites. And in the meantime, here's a few pieces to inspire – curated by Art of Home. theartofhome.ca

Tassel Prayer Beads

Preserved Boxwood Wreath

Headster Kid’s Hat

Lover’s Tempo Earrings 85

Jellycat Plush Lemon

Terracotta Pinch Bowls

Bamboo Turkish Towel

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Conducting Business

SAFELY

Using Remote Technologies

RESPONSIBLY Helping Our Clients Buy And Sell

EFFICIENTLY CHESTNUT PARK WEST

The Shops At Waterloo Town Square 75 King St S #50, Waterloo, ON chestnutparkwest.com @chestnutprkwest

CHESTNUT PARK GUELPH 28 Douglas St, Guelph, ON chestnutparkguelph.com @chestnutparkguelph

# P HO TO S P R E AD

#DTK EATS: GLOBAL CUISINE ON A LOCAL SCENE PREAMBLE & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

WHILE INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL HAS – AT LEAST FOR NOW – BECOME A THING OF THE PAST, THE OPPORTUNITY TO SATIATE THE URGE FOR FANTASTIC INTERNATIONAL FLAVOURS IN DOWNTOWN KITCHENER HAS NEVER BEEN MORE POSSIBLE. AND PALATABLE. CASE IN POINT: THE FIVE CHEFS AND CHEF/OWNERS HIGHLIGHTED IN THIS 88

SPREAD . ENCOMPASSING CARIBBEAN, JAPANESE, SALVADORIAN, MIDDLE EASTERN AND KOREAN CUISINE, THESE KITCHEN WIZARDS ARE ENSURING THAT THE DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT SCENE IS FULL OF UNIQUELY DELICIOUS DISHES THAT TRAVERSE THE GLOBAL CULINARY LANDSCAPE. SO TRAVEL LIGHT. ARRIVE WITH AN EMPTY STOMACH. AND SAVOUR THE WORLD IN DOWNTOWN KITCHENER. IT’S GLOBAL CUISINE – WITHOUT THE JETLAG.

‘THERE IS NO SINCERER LOVE THAN THE LOVE OF FOOD.’ -GEORGE BERNARD SHAW

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CH R IS L E E , CH EF/O WN ER IZN A: J AP AN ES E D ONB U R I H OU S E 137 King St E, Kitchener iznadonburi.com Chris recommends the Omu Rice (popular with kids) & Donkotsu Ramen

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C H E F S AR I Y E W / K A RI M S I N DY Q U E E N SHAWA R MA & K A B A B 93 Ontario St S, Kitchener find them on facebook Sariye recommends the Shawarma Platters & fresh-squeezed lemonade

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Y AN G C H E S O N G, O WN ER KO R EAN BBQ R E S T A U R A N T koreabbq.wixsite.com 265 King St E, Kitchener Yang recommends the Pork Bone Soup & Hot Stone Bibimbap

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E L V IS E L L IS O N , CH EF/O WN ER EL L I SO N ’ S BI S T R O 14 Charles St W, Kitchener ellisonsbistro.com Elvis recommends the Rotis, Doubles & Jerk Sauces (sold by the jar)

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I R M A D ON A N -CA LDERO N , CH EF /OWNER T HE G U AN AQ U I T A R E S T A U R A N T 273 King St W, 2nd floor, Kitchener theguanaquitarestaurant.com Irma recommends the Guanaquita Platter (pork & cheese pupusa, traditional pastelito, Salvadorian enchilada, chicken tamal)

E M O H E AT

G G Y H O OW T

H

AVE E W G&

U R H T WI

START HERE

• pillow fight! If you’re up for it (we know the kids are!) Or you can make a wicked pillow fort—it’s a kind of choose your own adventure activity. Sail to the high seas in your Bhujodi pirate ship, or guard your homestead from intruders with an army of Lithuanian Linen. All jokes aside, you can’t hygge at home without some seriously plushy textiles.

HYGGE (hue-guh): A Danish and Norwegian word to describe a feeling of coziness and comfort that encourages personal contentment and well-being. The true expression of hygge is joining with loved ones in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. It’s basically nesting, but a little more legit!

• cOUCH SuRF! Nothing says staycation more than falling asleep on the couch, after or during a good flick. Reach for your softest and warmest throw and revel in the feeling of “I totally shouldn’t be doing this”. Who says you can’t spend the night on the sofa? This Fall, you make your own rules!

• brush it off. COVID bakers and newly-made chefs, the hardest part is always the clean up right? Make washing up more comfortable by using a quality made dish-companion that you can count on to be tough on grease and grime. The grocery store days of plastic scrubbies are long gone!

• embrace your inner kid! It’s more than easy to go stir crazy when you’re cooped up in the house. Keep the little ones (and yourself) entertained with a classic wooden toy, puzzle, craft, or family game: role-playing store is our old-time favourite.... did you see that coming?

• HAve an indoor picnic!

Sometimes crashing on the floor with good take out is just what the day calls for. The right rug invites you to sit, walk, sprawl, and play—it draws the family closer. Have a spill? We got you, nothing a little soap and water can’t fix! The best rugs have some life in them.

Rug & Weave is an indie home decor shop located in Guelph’s infamous Ward neighborhood. We specialize in a curated assortment of rugs, pillows, furniture, blankets, decor, and giftables. Our Brick & Mortar is ever growing & expanding, with everything from a colourful kids collection, to pantry and utility.

Come say hi!

460 York Rd Guelph, ON N1E 3H8

Visit Us: Tues-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 10-4

Shop Online 24/7: www.rugandweave.com

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Game On!

This season, grab your very own ‘Welly Can Land' – the ultimate staycation craft brew package. Featuring twelve unique Welly beers (including eight collab brews) as well as a custom board game, this autumnal release is the perfect addition for those last cottage weekends.

Visit store.wellingtonbrewery.ca

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photo by Ralph Dunning

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‘NO T B U S I NE S S A S U S U A L ’ : HOW HOME GROUP REALTY IS FOCUSING ON SAFETY IN THE AGE OF COVID WORDS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

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GUELPH JUNCTION

‘In the past fifteen years I’ve completed ten

a fantastic mix of factory brutalism, urban

Ironman triathlons’ Paul Fitzpatrick, Broker

minimalism, and corporate chic. And today

of Record at Guelph’s Home Group Realty,

it’s oh so quiet.

tells me. 'And yet,’ he emphasizes, ‘I’ve never worked harder than I have this year.’ While I

When we get up to tour around the place,

let this observation sink in, Paul leans back in

I am quick to notice the number of vacant

his chair and lets out a long exhale through

offices. Unoccupied cubicles. Empty dog

the mask he wears around the office these

beds. ‘A sign of the times,’ Paul remarks as

days, adding: ‘It’s certainly been a year.’

he sees me scanning the space for life. ‘Most of our team works from home nowadays,’

It’s mid-August, late morning, and Paul and

he adds, ‘and those who remain – mostly

I are conversing at the main boardroom

administrative staff – take the utmost

table in Home Group’s lovely Guelph

precautions.’ As if on cue, I spot Home

headquarters. Located in Granite Homes’

Group’s Marketing Coordinator, Dani, dart

recently-completed commercial development

across a hallway and into her office to take a

in the Royal City’s amazingly eclectic Junction

call – mask firmly in place.

neighbourhood (just a block from the hood’s darling Fixed Gear Brewing Co), the office is

A sign of the times, to be sure.

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@HOMEGROUPREALTY

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While no sector’s been left unaffected by this global pandemic, 2020 has been an especially wild ride for the real estate world. ‘When the pandemic first hit southwestern Ontario, we saw the entire industry turned upside down,' Paul remarks. 'Buyers and sellers were consumed with fear and anxiety. Open houses were banned. And listings dried up almost immediately.' Brokerages have been left scrambling to make sense of it all. For Paul and Home Group, this

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME IN THE AGE OF COVID

has meant fundamentally re-thinking how they do business.

down at the table, ‘it certainly hasn’t been business as usual.’

This global pandemic has changed the way we live in our homes, and also the way we look at potential new homes.

We recently asked HomeGroup broker of record Paul Fitzpatrick what sorts of things potential buyers might want to consider when looking for their ideal home:

Indeed, it hasn’t. But Home Group has worked hard to implement a

HOME OFFICES

As Paul notes: ‘For decades, the real estate industry has been all about social interactions. From open houses to private viewings to preparing and signing documents, agents and clients have always relied on meeting together to get things done. Since March, we’ve been trying to figure out how to work with clients – buyers and sellers – virtually. Seamlessy. Safely. To be sure,’ he adds, looking

set of COVID guidelines that ensure the safety of clients and agents while retaining the sanctity of folks’ homes. Guidelines that include eschewing traditional open houses for virtual zoom open houses, for instance. As Paul observes: ‘While the realtor is on location at the selling property, potential buyers are able to ask questions about the house in live time – from the safety of their home.

Whether it’s to address a question about a particular appliance or a request to get a closer look at the master ensuite, virtual open houses are proving to be effective tools to showcase properties.'

Since the pandemic struck, many of us find ourselves working from home.

And this might be the new normal.

Houses and condos with office spaces – whether a full room or corner nook – are increasingly coveted. With kids homeschooling and adults working from home, open concept spaces might not be as ideal as once they were.

To further supplant in-person property showings the brokerage is also prioritizing, with each listing, fantastic photography and

IN-LAW SUITES

videography. ‘While we’ve always viewed photo and video work as

High costs of housing and care facilities aside, the threat of a virus outbreak in retirement residences / long-term care facilities will likely lead to an increase in the popularity of multi-family homes featuring walk-out basements, accessory apartments, and more.

important aspects of featuring a client’s home,’ Paul remarks, ‘we’re now including many more detail shots of the houses our agents are selling. More close-ups. More shots of appliances, closets, finishes.

And more video too.’ All this on top of the unique client services that this brokerage is already known for – including custom lawn signs that feature detailed descriptions of each listed Home Group property. ‘As it continues to prove so difficult to get inside a home for viewing,’ Paul notes, ‘these signs have become an even more effective marketing tool for agents and their clients.’

A few other things Home Group has implemented in the name of safety? The brokerage is conducting business electronically through digital signatures and electronic funds transfer, for example, and communicating with clients through email or by phone. And, to dissuade ‘tire kickers’ from undermining the safety of agents and clients, the brokerage will work only with buyers who’ve been prequalified and have signed their exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement. ‘And we’re encouraging agents and clients to use the secure mailbox outside our office, too,’ notes Paul, ‘for contactless drop off.’

OUTDOOR SPACES With long-distance travel tempered, outdoor spaces of all types are super in-demand – including condos with balconies, houses with private backyard space and/or a pool, and more. A home with outdoor space might just provide the ultimate staycation.

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While he explains the brokerage’s safety

Artefacts, is derived from former stall dividers from

regulations, my eyes dance around the space.

the Royal Winter Fair. And the glass dividers we hung

It’s a sight to behold, to be sure. The boardroom

at reception to keep staff safe are from a century

table, for instance, is massive. Live edge. Just

home in Hamilton. And,' he adds, exuberantly, 'in our

gorgeous. Above us is a custom chandelier built

kitchen, we offer locally-brewed coffee from Guelph’s

from an old railway tie wrapped with Edison

Planet Bean coffee roasters and local beer in the fridge

bulbs. Just outside the boardroom, on the other

– from Fixed Gear down the street or Elora Brewing or

side of a large glass wall, I spot an exposed brick

Wellington.’ All local. Heck, even the hand sanitizer at

wall with Home Group’s logo – the silhouette

the front entrance was made here in Guelph by one of

of Guelph’s iconic Church of Our Lady with the

our Royal City craft distilleries.

slogan ‘Fiercely Local’ – emblazoned on it. So good.

It's jarring, actually, to see this once-bustling office so quiet in the middle of a workday. And yet it’s also re-

When I ask Paul to describe what this motto

assuring: evidence of the deliberate safety measures

and slogan mean to him, he’s quick to reply. ‘I

this brokerage has implemented to keep their team of

chose the silhouette of the church because it’s so

almost fifty realtors and seven staff safe. And to keep

recognizably Guelph. And, I suppose,' he chuckles,

their clients safe too. As we wrap up our conversation,

'it represents the best real estate in town.’ He

I can only imagine the amount of work that’s been

continues: ‘I chose the slogan ‘Fiercely Local’

done here at Home Group to transform its entire

because everything about Home Group is about

business model. I look at Paul – sitting across from

this community. The team. Our clients. Even this

me with his mask firmly secured. He leans back in his

office is all about putting local first.’

chair, exhales, and proclaims once more: ‘It’s certainly been a year.’

When I ask him to elaborate, he raps the

.

boardroom table with his knuckles, noting: ‘Take this table, for instance. We had it made locally – at Artefacts in St Jacobs – from a walnut tree that was felled locally. The base of the table is made from a former Waterloo bridge trestle. The railway tie chandelier is also local.’ He continues: ‘Our front desk reception area, also crafted at

HOME GROUP REALTY 1-5 EDINBURGH RD S,GUELPH

homegrouprealty.ca

Luxury • Authentic • Resale

Waterloo Region’s only luxury resale boutique.

Where authenticity is always guaranteed.

640 King St. East, Cambridge ON (Preston Town Centre)

519-212-6824 | www.luxetouchconsignment.com

Step into Fall

A European Experience

519-824-0185 • 30 Carden St, Guelph • MarketCo.ca

here to help 106

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local. quality. custom.

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#PHOTOSPREAD

ROAD TR I P S C RAPBOOK :

A PHOTO ESSAY OF OUR REGION’S DRIVE-INS AND TAKE-OUTS PREAMBLE & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN If this past year has taught us anything, it’s that drive-in and take-out dining is alive and well. Chip wagons. Fry shacks. Drive-in diners. Food carts. In town. Out of town. Along our region’s urban and rural thoroughfares. These nostalgia-inducing joints are definitely worth a visit. Just remember your wet wipes. You’re gonna need ‘em.

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R O C K Y’ S DRI V E-I N 520 Elizabeth St, Guelph 519-824-8088 Seasonal drive-in diner that looks straight out of the fifties. Home of footlong dogs, chili dogs, pulled pork, shakes, onion rings and more. All that’s missing is servers on roller skates.

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THE F R Y S HA CK 950 St David St N, Fergus find them on facebook Classic chip wagon featuring locally-grown fresh cut fries and poutine, burgers, ice cream, milkshakes & more.

And plenty of outdoor seating, too.

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L AZ A C ART Royal City Park, Guelph lazafandb.com Cart on wheels featuring natural teas (sweetened with organic cane sugar or honey), ice pops & Arki frozen dog treats.

Enjoy on the banks of the mighty Speed River – just steps away.

R E D W OO D RES T A URA N T 10 Elora St S, Minto

CEDAR RAIL DRIVE- IN RESTAU RANT

519-327-8738

200 Elora St N, Harriston

Located at the fork leading either to Port Elgin (stay

519-338-2540

left) or Sauble (stay right), this long-time establishment

Archetypal drive-in diner with pick-up window featur-

is ideal for milkshakes, burgers, fries & some shade

ing ice cream, milkshakes, onion rings, foot long dogs

under the trees.

& more. As the sign says: ‘Good food cooked to order.’

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T H E R E D CA BO O S E

MEG A CONE

5973 Hwy 9, RR4, Harriston

Out & about in the region

find them on facebook

megacone.ca

Re-adapted caboose with local homemade burgers,

Colourful ice cream truck serving soft serve, dipped cones, sun-

fish ‘n chips, fresh cut fries, foot long dogs & more. A

daes, banana boats & more. Cool down with a soft serve and

perfect place to break on that long ride home from

feel like a kid again.

those Lake Huron beaches.

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A D A P T C OFFEE 20 Alma St, Guelph adaptcoffeeco.com Converted 1962 Airstream parked at Fixed Gear Brewing. On the menu: espresso-based drinks crafted with De Mello Coffee Roastery beans. Grab a pint at the brewery, and an americano on your way out.

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MEET YOUR MAKER

W H EN MELKU GE B R E K R IS T O S B E G A N S ER V I N G B U FF E T-STYLE E R IT R E A N DIS H E S EA C H F R I D A Y N IG HT FROM H E R S T O R E F R O NT IN G U EL P H ' S ‘WARD’ N EI GHB O UR H O O D NE A R LY A D EC A D E AGO, SH E COULDN'T H AV E P R E DIC T ED HOW H E R BUSINE S S W O ULD E V O L V E A N D G ROW. TODAY, G E B R E K R IS T O S ’ LAZ A F O O D & B EVER AGES I N C S P E C IA LIZE S IN AL L - N A T U R A L HIBISCUS COL D T E AS (S W E E T E NE D W I T H ORG AN I C CAN E S UGAR O R H O NE Y ) , I C E P OP S ( W HIC H COME IN S IX DE LIC IO U S FL A V O U R S

LAZA FOOD & BEVERAGES lazafandb.com

IN SPIRATION ?

T o pro mo te di ve rsi ty and he lp make o ur re gi o n a rai nbo w of c ul ture & l i f e styl e W H Y H IBISCUS? It’ s a he al thy al te rnati ve to so das, and pac ke d wi th anti o xi dants & mi ne ral s

– INC LUDI N G LE M O N G INGE R H O N EY ) , A N D

W H AT’S N EXT?

E VEN FROZE N DO G T R E A T S . LO O K F OR

mo re be ne f i c i al l i f e styl e -

LAZA P R ODUCT S AT T H E G U E LP H F A R MER S ’ M ARKE T, TH E S T O NE S T O R E , LO NG O ’S G U ELPH , P ARK G R O C E R Y , AND AT T H E L A Z A C ART AT R OYAL C IT Y P AR K .

T o ke e p gro wi ng by i ntro ducin g c hangi ng pro duc ts

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THE COMPACT SUV FOR THE TRIALS AND THE TRAILS Pfaff Subaru | 12 Wilbert Street | Guelph, ON N1K 0A4 (226) 299-0770 | pfaffsubaru.com |

pfaffsubaru

GETTING TO KNOW: LEE QUAILE, BROKER OF RECORD, CHESTNUT PARK WEST INTERVIEW BY CAI SEPULIS CHESTNUT PARK WEST WAS LAUNCHED IN SPRING 2018 WITH A CORE OF SIX HIGHLY EXPERIENCED REALTORS. SINCE THEN THE BROKERAGE HAS GROWN photo provided by Chestnut Park Realty West

TO A TEAM OF OVER THIRTY BROKERS, REALTORS AND STAFF, WITH LOCATIONS IN UPTOWN WATERLOO AND DOWNTOWN GUELPH. RECENTLY, I SAT DOWN WITH THEIR BROKER OF RECORD, LEE QUAILE, TO CHAT ABOUT THE CURRENT REAL ESTATE MARKET AND WHAT WE MIGHT EXPECT GOING FORWARD. WITH OVER THIRTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE IN KITCHENER-WATERLOO, LEE IS AN UNDENIABLY RELIABLE SOURCE. 117 HOW IS COVID AFFECTING THE LOCAL MARKET?

Don’t settle for half measures. Make sure you’re

Early spring showed signs of uncertainty with

working with a responsive and knowledgeable

many people adopting a ‘wait and see’ attitude.

realtor who understands both the market and

But as soon as folks saw that June prices in

your goals. The agent you choose should be

Waterloo Region and Guelph were holding strong,

committed to making sure that your property

there was a resurgence of activity. Prices have

gets maximum exposure to potential buyers and

only gone up since then.

is professionally and attractively represented

WHY DO YOU THINK OUR LOCAL MARKET HAS REMAINED SO STRONG?

ANY TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME?

wherever it’s advertised.

ANY TIPS FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS?

Some people were understandably pessimistic

The best time to jump into the market was

in the early stages of the pandemic, but at

yesterday. The second best time is now. Average

Chestnut Park West we’ve been extremely bullish

sale prices year over year in Kitchener-Waterloo

on Southwestern Ontario. There are so many

from July 2019 to July 2020 have increased

factors working in our favour – including a strong

by over 22% - meaning down payments and

and diverse economy, massive investment in

mortgages are only getting more expensive as

development and infrastructure, a well-educated

time goes by.

workforce, and more. A quick recovery was always in the cards.

CH ES TNUT P A RK R EA LT Y S OUTH WES T ER N ON T A RI O LT D . , BROK ERA G E THE SHOPS AT WATERLOO TOWN SQUARE 75 KING STREET SOUTH, UNIT 50, WATERLOO

chestnutparkwest.com

BEST PART OF YOUR JOB I think I can speak for all our realtors when I say that seeing a satisfied client on closing day is the best feeling this industry can bestow.

117 117

# P HO T OE S S AY

PADDLING THE ARCHIPELAGO PREAMBLE BY CAI SEPULIS; PHOTOS BY CAI SEPULIS & SONIA PREISLER

‘GUYS. THIS IS IT. THIS IS THE PERFECT COMBO,’ SONIA PROCLAIMS WITH A LAUGH, RAISING HER OPEN-FACED SANDWICH – AN ECLECTIC MIX OF CHEESE, MEAT, AND PEACH JAM – FOR ALL TO SEE. ANYTHING GOES OUT HERE. AND PLATES ARE MERELY A SUGGESTION. JESS LAUGHS ALONG WITH ENTHUSIASM AS SHE POURS A SECOND CUP OF COFFEE INTO HER ENAMEL TOQUE CAMPING MUG. FORÇA RAISES A KEEN EYE FROM OVER IN THE HAMMOCK, WHERE SHE'S TUCKED IN BELOW THE GENTLY SWAYING PINES. HEATHER AND SERENA SMILE BACK FROM THE EDGE OF THE LAKE WHERE THEY'RE KEEPING AN EYE ON OUR CAMP’S SNAPPING TURTLE. THEY'RE TAKING A REST AFTER HAVING PADDLED IN JUST THIS MORNING SO WE CAN ALL TRAVEL TOGETHER TO OUR NEXT SITE. AND I FIND MYSELF IN THE MIDST OF IT ALL AND – WATCHING THE WATER GENTLY LAP UP ONTO THE SHORE – DEBATE ANOTHER SWIM. I LOOK UP TO CATCH THE SMILING FACES OF EVERYONE AROUND ME. ALL RELAXED AND SUN-KISSED SOMEWHERE UP NORTH. ENJOYING A MUCH-NEEDED REPRIEVE FROM THE WORLD: A FEW DAYS OF NAVIGATING THE LAKES AND PORTAGES OF MASSASSAUGA PROVINCIAL PARK, JUST SOUTH OF PARRY SOUND. FUZZY PEACH JAM. MOUNTAINOAK GOUDA. POLESTAR SOUR DOUGH BREAD. THATCHER’S SUMMER SAUSAGE. THE PINES. THE TURTLES. THE GREAT COMPANY. AND IT’S ONLY DAY TWO. 118

INDEED, SONIA'S RIGHT. SOMETIMES YOU REALLY DO COME UP WITH THE PERFECT COMBINATION.

119

PROVISIONS LOCAL CUCUMBER, FUZZY PEACH JAM, MOUNTAINOAK GOUDA, THATCHER'S SUMMER SAUSAGE, POLESTAR HEARTH SOUR DOUGH

120

MORNING COFFEE & CAMP STOVE PANCAKES TOQUE ADVENTURE MUG & SMILE TIGER COF FEE ROASTER’S ‘THUNDER PEEL’ ESPRESSO’

121

AFTERNOON THIRST QUENCHER LEGENDARY WELLINGTON BREWERY'S RUSSIAN IMPERIAL STOUT

122

COZYING UP FULL MOON RISING AMONGST THE CALLING LOONS

SMALL BUSINESSES ARE VITAL FOR A STRONG LOCAL ECONOMY

Mike Hryn | mike.hryn@richardsongmp.com | 519-827-2918

EXPERT OPINION | INVESTMENT

MIKE HRYN All that people are talking about these days is that 2020 is the strangest year in recent history -- and the markets seem to be as bizarre as everything else. We have seen the fastest 30% drop in S&P500 history and we are now showing the fastest recovery.

So, the question I keep hearing is ”why is the equity market so high and my investment portfolio doing well when the economy is in such bad shape and unemployment high? It doesn’t make sense!”

In fact, these two conditions are quite different. The market is looking past the pandemic and showing confidence in a vaccine and a return to normalcy.

Anything 'tech' has surged as the anticipated rate of change to online solutions has accelerated.

Furthermore, interest rates are at all-time lows, meaning stocks provide the best possible long-term return profile and protection against inflation.

It’s important to separate stock market performance from overall economic and community health. The reality is that smaller local businesses -- including restaurants, small retail shops, and ‘mom and pop’ companies -- have been the hardest hit. Although they don’t have a significant influence on stock markets, these businesses are huge drivers of local economic performance and community resiliency.

Consider this: research from the Institute for Local Self Reliance in the US reveals that 'small-scale, locally owned businesses create communities that are more prosperous, entrepreneurial, connected, and generally better off.' Moreover, small businesses donate as much as 250% more than larger businesses to local non-profits and community causes according to data compiled by Score, a network of mentors for small businesses. Clearly, these vital businesses deserve our full attention.

I’ve always tried to support local businesses where I live and work, and I know that right now it is more important than ever. If you’ve been stockpiling Toque like I do to complete the spine images (look at the spine of this issue), pull them off the shelf and leaf through them again. There are incredible local businesses profiled here that haven’t seen the gains of the stock market -- and they are working harder than ever to make it through.

With our help, hopefully most of them will.

All material has been prepared by Mike Hryn, who is a Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor with the Mactaggart Hryn Team at Richardson GMP Limited. The opinions expressed in this report are the opinions of the author and readers should not assume they reflect the opinions or recommendations of Richardson GMP Limited or its affiliates. Richardson GMP Limited, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Richardson is a trade-mark of James Richardson & Sons, Limited. GMP is a registered trade-mark of GMP Securities L.P. Both used under license by Richardson GMP Limited.

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Start the pitches!

The ideas are in. The charities have been chosen. Let the work begin!

This fall, our partnership with the Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI) and ICON programs at the University of Guelph kicks into gear! We are excited to watch the charities and students collaboratively build pitches for the $7,500 grand prize.

Follow their progress at oaktreeguelph.ca

Founding partners

128 GOOS E 'IN THE P INE S ' B Y CA i SE P U L iS

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C OCK TAIL HO UR WITH MELANIE CAMPBELL, BARTENDER AT SPRING MILL DISTILLERY

IN TERMS OF CLASSIC COCKTAILS, WHITE RUSSIANS ARE ABOUT AS SIMPLE AS THEY COME – WHICH MAKES THEM PERFECT FOR CRAFTING AT HOME. COFFEE LIQUEUR. VODKA. MILK. AND ICE. THE RESULT? A COMFORTING DRINK THAT’S PERFECT FOR COZY AUTUMN EVENINGS – ALONE OR IN GOOD COMPANY.

SPRING MILL DISTILLERY WHITE RUSSIAN Method: Build in a Glass Glass: Rocks Ingredients:

1.5oz Spring Mill Distillery ‘Ward Series’ No. 2 Coffee Liqueur 1oz Spring Mill Distillery Vodka 3oz milk Ice cubes Method:

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Pour 1.5oz Coffee Liqueur, 1oz vodka, and 3oz milk in a rocks glass. Add cubed ice. Find a nice comfy chair by the fire and enjoy.