Issue # 5 August-October' 17
#EatLocal #ReadLocal
From the editor The summer is heading to its end, and we all are trying to catch and enjoy all hot days that are still remain. One more trip to a beach. One more picnic. One more cold beer. In this issue we gathered together weekend ideas for the next several weeks and some plans for the upcoming fall. Join our ride through endless opportunities of Forest City: cook and experiment with the Forest City Cookbook, visit first and only London Taco Fest, choose workshops and events that will change your life, discover yoga, support local businesses, and read local stories. We are here to connect you with all local gems. See you next time in November with our new and festive Christmas issue!
Anna Orishchenko Founder & Editor-in-Chief anna@casamag.london
Table of Content
But first, tacos... A piece of cake
Handmade things A culinary (re)volution
Inspirational leaders The coolest barbershop in the city City nomads
A place to create
A recipe of the month
Conscious yoga
Forest City Cookbook
Every day of our lives we spend time on our kitchens, cooking family dinners, meals for our kids, experimenting with our best recipes when we expect friends or family gatherings. We laugh, we drink wine, we pair cheeses with craft beer, and we tell stories. Let us tell you a story about unique and extraordinary project in London. The project of passion, a tribute to London and its risktaking, innovative chefs who support our local farmers, build community around the table, and change lives one bite at a time. Meet Forest City Cookbook and its publisher and creator Alieska Robles. “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” - George Bernard Shaw Casa London: Hi Ali! Please tell us what is Forest City Cookbook? How was the idea born? Ali: The Forest City Cookbook is a tribute to London and a special way to say “thank you” to all the dedicated chefs and producers that work very hard each and every day providing us with great food. It is a labour of love and this is a small way to show our appreciation. This project is about great people, doing great things, for a great city. The idea came to me in January, I guess as a sort of a new year's resolution. I decided that wanted to use my photography as more of a tool to make a positive impact – not just make a living. I moved to London not too long ago and as I started to discover the city and the great people that live here, I thought it would be a great idea to share these new discoveries with more people, build community and create deeper relationships between farmers, the restaurants and Londoners in general. I'm very thankful to London and I hope my journey as a newcomer will make a lot of people realize just how beautiful this city is! Also creating a cookbook has been one of my biggest dreams, I grew up surrounded by them and I truly believe there's something magical about cookbooks. Something no online recipe or blog will ever be able to provide. So I started this cookbook as a passion project and I’ve been completely in love with the journey ever since. It is difficult to give a simple answer, because too many have
since. It is difficult to give a simple answer, because too many have come together for this idea to be born! Casa London: Is it only you behind this project? What is your background? Ali: At this point, I can't say I'm the only face behind this project, we have an amazing production team, more than 30 local chefs, sous chefs, professors, cooks, 30 local producers, 4 craft breweries and the support of countless people in the community are behind creating this cookbook. It is truly a community-wide effort and it will be a tribute to our city, made possible by the people in our city. As for my background, I came here from Venezuela, a country currently very divided with an increasing "30 local chefs, sous chefs, violence and food professors, cooks, 30 local poverty, which has played producers, 4 craft breweries" a role in shaping my love of bringing people together - and what better way is there to do it that than through food. It is a very powerful thing! Casa London: You told that you grew up surrounded by cookbooks, so were you always into culinary and foodie projects or is it still something new for you? Ali: I believe this path was meant for me. My mom is an amazing cook and my dad was a great photographer, so I grew up watching them do their magic and fell in love with the combination of both. I tried many different styles of photography along the way, but I always ended up back doing food. It is what I enjoy doing the most, it's the fascinating and an ephemeral experience. You must wait for the ingredients to grow, harvest them at their best moment, wash, chop and prepare them to marvel our eyes for an instant and with the first bite that dish is destined to disappear, leaving only a memory and a great photo behind. I'm in love with food and everything that it represents. I love being surrounded by it and of course I love eating! Eating is a celebration. It is a special time to gather around the table with friends and family. It is a moment of
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gather around the table with friends and family. It is a moment of connection, with many elements: the soil and animals that provide the food, the people who harvest, the people who cook, and the people around us nurturing our souls. Casa London: How would you describe a culinary scene of London? How do you think it will evolve? Ali: I totally wouldn’t consider myself and expert (yet). But from what I've noticed since I moved here, we have a LOT of great talent in our kitchens and we're surrounded by great farmers producing delicious food in Southwestern Ontario. I'm confident that we can propel our city to be known as a great food city. We just need to encourage more people to support our local businesses and spread awareness about how great we are. It's not that we are not good enough; it's that people just haven’t discovered us...yet. As every good thing in life, it will take time to drive people from other cities to London, but every little bit counts. We hope this cookbook will start a movement that will spread across the province. Our chefs are ready to up their game, but they need to feel the community’s support to go beyond their limits. Casa London: What is in the future for Forest City Cookbook? Have you thought about next part of the project or even about some spin-off project? Ali: The Forest City Cookbook will be a one-time craft (exclusive) edition, where we will only print the quantity of books that we pre-sell by the end of 2017. So the future of the cookbook, in terms of availability, will be very limited. The cookbook itself, I hope it will be something to treasure for many years to come in as many London homes as possible. We expect this cookbook to be a physical proof of the power of food and how we can achieve great things if we all work together and help each other. We expect it to be a work of art, a culinary tour guide, a representation of the past and the present and an inspirational piece that will motivate people to reconnect with their food and where it comes from. Food is love and it is special, as this cookbook will be too! I haven't thought much about what comes after this project, so
I haven't thought much about what comes after this project, so I think I will just let it flow and see what happens. What I do know, is that it will be definitely related to food! Casa London: What have you to say to potential buyers? What differs Forest City Cookbook from other culinary books? Ali: I’ll say you're not buying just a cookbook; you're buying a unique community experience! Our hope is to bring the city together to make this happen and the beauty of it all is that everyone is welcome to participate. The Forest City Cookbook won't be a typical cookbook; it won’t just be filled with 125 amazing recipes created by our local culinary artists, but it will contain stories, history, art, and most importantly great people. We expect it to be aesthetically beautiful but also very useful. You will be able to use it for cooking, reading, learning about our local history, planning your next dinner at a restaurant, or finding new places to buy your ingredients. In addition, by getting a copy, you are helping to keep the Forest City alive, as we'll be donating 10% of printing costs back to ReForest London, to planting trees and support the Million Trees Challenge. You can order your Forest City Cookbook at forestcitycookbook.com, follow this culinary adventure (and we even may say a culinary revolution) on Facebook and Instagram, and get your printed copy by Spring 2018. Interview by Anna Orishchenko Photos: Alieska Robles, Forest City Cookbook
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Photos by Chad Stewart
Smoked Organic Beef Bone Broth by Chef Chad Stewart Ingredients: - 1-1.5 pound of organic grass fed beef shank - 2 fresh carrots, chopped - 4 small stocks of celery, chopped - 1 small onion, chopped - 1 small can of tomato paste - 1/2 cup of red wine - 8 cups of warm water - pepper corns, thyme 1. First smoke a beef shank. This one is certified organic Black Angus Beef from Clear Creek Farms. 2. Smoke for about 3 hrs at 200 F. If you don't have a smoker you can roast it in foil or in a deep roasting pan. 3. Heat up a Dutch oven or a medium size stock pot. 4. Add your organic beef bone, and mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion). 5. Allow to sweat on medium heat stirring once or twice, roasting vegetables and releasing some flavour. 6. Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and continue to simmer for 3-5 minutes before cooking the paste out a bit in the process. Add a splash of red wine and deglaze pot before adding 8 cups of warm water, few pepper corns and 3 sprigs of thyme. 7. Simmer for 5 hrs, strain and cool over ice before refrigerating. Once cool peel off excess fat, (compost this or throw in garbage; do not pour down the drain). 8. Reheat and enjoy as is, with noodles, or in a soup. You could also freeze this Beef Bone Broth and use for gravy in the future.
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Escape The City Stress
Interview: Josh Hamilton Photos: Studio 8
Cathy Manherz is the driving force behind Studio 8, a brand new community space for artists, lecturers, photographers, or anyone who wants to learn something new or pass on some knowledge. It is housed in a gorgeous little building on Glanworth Drive, London, complete with a small sundeck and array of colourful flowers. They describe their building as somewhere that “provides the challenge and inspiration you need to facilitate personal growth so you can become the person you want to be” and from the moment you step through the door you feel that welcoming spirit. The scented candles are fresh and inviting and the whole building is bathed in a warm, natural light. Studio 8 began life in a rather odd, and somewhat spiritual, way. Cathy had been trying to sell the building for quite a while, but it simply wouldn’t sell. Cathy: It’s all about giving back. But I knew there was a reason that this building wasn’t selling. It’s a beautiful building in the lovely village of Glanworth that has a great local community. Eventually the building finally sold, or so she thought, as whilst she was down in Vermont she got a call to say the deal had fallen through due to lack of financing from the purchaser leaving the building sitting empty from April until October. Cathy: I was thinking, “what am I going to do with this place”, when suddenly after a day spent in Vermont with my camera to shoot the fall foilage and covered bridges, I woke up at 3 o’clock one morning with idea! It was the perfect place for a photography and art studio, I wanted to turn it into a place to create! From there it just snowballed into something much bigger than I was expecting it to be. So I took it off the market and just said “Ok what is this going to cost”. However, she couldn’t do this all alone, her friends (and now business partners) Sherry Purdie, a former school administrator, and Amanda Smith, a professional photographer, have been working along with Cathy from October 2016. Sherry’s main job is taking care of all the admin and organisation of the business, although Cathy wryly quipped during our tour that “her main job
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is taking care of all the admin and organisation of the business, although Cathy wryly quipped during our tour that “her main job is to keep me in line”, whilst Amanda lends her hand to whatever is required, be it taking classes or painting the whole building. Amanda: I’m a Jack of all trades. The name itself comes from Cathy’s lucky number eight, which is traditionally all about empowerment, drive, and ambition. Cathy: When I read the meanings behind the number eight to everyone, they just looked at me and said, “that’s you”, so we said let’s just call it Studio 8. Interestingly, in the Bible, the number eight represents a new beginning and the idea of being reborn or resurrected, which also seems quite fitting. After working on the building and the business from November right up until the launch day on April 8th 2017, they are already peaking the interest of people from within the Glanworth community and from London and beyond. The variety of classes and workshops offered in the short time since opening is a true reflection of the ambition that Cathy, Sherry, and Amanda obviously have. One of their first classes was a creative writing workshop with guest speaker, Tracy Quinton, and have since opened up their program to include yoga, motivational speaking, mediums, photographers, language classes, and much, much more. The whole ethos of Studio 8 is provide a space for you to relax, learn more about yourself, and escape from the outside world. Cathy: Everybody that walks in here loves the area, they love the energy of the environment, and they love the positive motivational sayings on the walls! I just really needed to create an environment where people can just escape from everyday life. Somewhere they can walk in the door and just unplug. Sherry: Somewhere you can challenge yourself to do things you might not normally do. Despite being such a young venture, they have big plans for the future as they look to grow and expand in every way possible! Cathy: It’s only been several months, but because we’ve been
Despite being such a young venture, they have big plans for the future as they look to grow and expand in every way possible! Cathy: It’s only been several months, but because we’ve been working on this since October, it feels like much longer. We have so many plans and ideas, and we believe that Studio 8 is a place to discover, recharge, and learn something new. It is fantastic to see three driven and passionate women working hard to make their dream a reality. The space they have created is open and welcoming and despite being so close to London, you feel a million miles from the stress of city life. So why not take a trip out and try something new in one of the most peaceful and serene places around.
To find out more about Studio 8 visit their website or check out their events calendar or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see what classes and workshops they have coming up. If you’re interested in investing in Studio 8, teaching a class, or using the space a corporate or business workshop you can get in touch with Cathy, Sherry, or Amanda via the contact page on their website!
Interview: Josh Hamilton Photos: Mikaela Shannon Photography
Valerie Giles And Michelle Shipley are the co-founders and owners of Mothership Yoga, a small “boutique� yoga teacher training school. They offer intimate and personal yoga experience, keeping their classes small enough to give each student as much attention as they require. While both ladies are former athletes, they came to yoga through two completely different paths and from completely different walks of life. Despite this they seem to have a fantastic relationship in business and as friends. Valerie started yoga in the late 60s. Valerie: Back then you just did it on the ...the first time I hit tv and I taught at a local school. a yoga mat I was Later on she began competing in high-end sports sold, I went all in and starting teaching dance fit for yoga and never and high impact. Finally after went back to tearing her Achilles whilst competing in a triathlon she martial arts found herself coming full circle back to yoga. Michelle first got a taste for yoga in 2004 in Toronto and was soon hooked. Michelle: Up until then I had done kick-boxing and Martial Arts, I was almost a black-belt. I thought that was what I needed to get rid of all my excess energy, when in fact I needed the polar opposite, which is yoga! Pretty much after the first time I hit a yoga mat I was sold, I went all in for yoga and never went back to martial arts. Within just three years she was taking her teacher training and began teaching classes and running workshops as a qualified instructor. Casa London: How did you two meet? Valerie: We met in 2015, I was teaching at Yoga Shack and Michelle was coming to the classes and enjoying the classes. She asked if I wanted to collaborate and do a couple of workshops together.
wanted to collaborate and do a couple of workshops together. After a few successful workshops the pair soon found themselves discussing founding a school together! They ran a few day retreats, frantically wrote their curriculum, and got their approvals within a week. After such an electric start to the school, they have continued to grow and expand and are now coming up on their third year in business! They have been very active in trying to build partnerships with other businesses and within the community. For example, they recently teamed up with Pelee Island Winery to do a wine and yoga night complete with live music, wine, and yoga. (Sounds like a pretty good party to us!) Michelle and Valerie are both believers in experiential learning and encourage their students to find their own twist of yoga. Michelle: We are real sticklers for the proper foundation and philosophies of yoga and know that everyone comes to yoga for their own reasons. The personality of each individual will take on the traditions and practices of yoga and offer it they recently up as something that is their own. teamed up with That’s what we do with Pelee Island Winery our students, we build on their interpretation to do a wine and of yoga. yoga night complete Experiential learning with music, They both love what they do, theylive talk about theirwine, work with an infectious joy and energy. Valerie: A lot of people have said to me that they don’t think they can be a teacher because they can’t do all the really complicated poses. But I really think it is about what is in your heart and your prowess, because to be the teacher is all about just communicating and just having compassion for the people you are teaching and regarding it as a gift.
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and just having compassion for the people you are teaching and regarding it as a gift. Whilst they obviously focus on making sure their students are well versed in the fundamentals of yoga and alignment inside postures, they want everyone to feel that with practice, they can make yoga feel their own and truly express themselves through it. Valerie: Certainly we want them to be able to align somebody to the best of their abilities, but it doesn’t mean you need to be able to do the splits perfectly. The last thing you need to be is a great athlete! Michelle: Yoga is for everybody, the whole social media scene for yoga is actually doing quite a disservice to yoga because everybody is always showing off their best yoga posture. When in fact yoga is as simple as stretching, it’s not meant to look perfect every time. It’s a practice in getting to know yourself. They did however, acknowledge the huge role social media has played in helping yoga to spread across the country The last thing you over the past need to be is a great decade. athlete! Michelle: It’s obviously very useful! Yoga has grown exponentially over the last 10 years – I think yoga has become really mainstream and I think it is because a lot of people are searching for profound balance. Not everybody wants to go to the gym, they want to find an outlet that works for them and yoga, depending on the type of yoga that you go into, has a yoga practice that suits every single person on the planet. That’s why I think it is so popular. Aside from their knowledge and prowess with yoga, it is the joy that they get from teaching that really sets them apart. Valerie: When you are teaching people meditation, it’s teaching them to be aware and be mindful and that’s true consciousness. We’re not just bones and tissues, we are a consciousness as well. I find that when I am teaching children, that they really enjoy the being quiet part of yoga and meditation. We are bombarded by
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We’re not just bones and tissues, we are a consciousness as well. I find that when I am teaching children, that they really enjoy the being quiet part of yoga and meditation. We are bombarded by noise and to take them into that state where you can be still and quiet is what they really thirst for. You’re really just building a relationship with yourself when you are being silent. Michelle: It’s really fun to be in a yoga class and see someone work on their postures over and over and the finally get it they just light up! it doesn’t matter what you look like because you’ll find it in your body, that’s why we don’t have any mirrors in our classrooms.
Mothership Yoga offer 200 and 300 hours Yoga Alliance Accredited training, offering incredibly flexible courses that allow each student to follow what speaks to them. Once you are versed in the fundamentals, you are free to let your mind and body go where feels natural. As well as these courses, they also offer shorter retreats and run one-off events, all of which you can find out about by heading to their website or following them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest. If the passion and knowledge that Michelle and Valerie have is anything to go by, Mothership Yoga will be around for quite a while to come!
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Beard Whisperers
Interview: Mari Udarbe Photos: Mikaela Shannon Photography
Since 1958, the Eastown Barbershop has been a familiar place for men of all ages and has since become a landmark of the Forest City. Casa London met with the owner, Kim Ziegner, to talk about the shop and its role in the growing barber culture. Casa London: How did you get started in Barbering? K: The barbershop has been in my family since 1979. Several years ago, the business became too much for my Uncle to handle due to health concerns. At the time, I owned a learning centre but decided to help out at the shop. I had some salon experience and I had also previously completed a hairstyling program; however, I had little experience in men’s hair and had a crash course in barbering from Alex, my uncle’s 82 year old colleague. Two years ago, I took a chance and bought the business from my Uncle. Casa London: What would you say the main difference between hairstyling and barbering is? K: Speaking from experience, men go to a barbershop for a good haircut at a reasonable price. They aren’t looking for all the extras offered in Salons. Barbershops also have a relaxed atmosphere where men can be themselves and feel comfortable. Haircuts are generally more laidback and easygoing. We also operate the shop on a walk in only basis so no appointments, just like a classic barbershop. Casa London: The shop has a very cool, retro vibe. What Eastown Barbershop inspired you to create is one of the few this type of shops in the city to atmosphere? K: I randomly use straight razor and walked into a barbershop in Toronto called The Crow’s Nest three hot towel years ago. offer It has a similar vibe and made a big impression on me. I wanted my shop to be a cool and interesting place to visit. Another barbering inspiration for me has been Schorem, an old school men’s only shop in the Netherlands. They specialize in classic men’s haircuts such as pompadours, slickbacks and flattops. The
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men’s only shop we are now becoming in the Netherlands. more known for our They specialize beard work; hence, in classic men’s the coined term haircuts such as pompadours, “beard whisperers” slickbacks and flattops. The Schorem master barbers teach these techniques in their “Old School Academy” where I took an Advanced Barbering Course. During my time in the Netherlands I learned their style of cutting hair. Schorem is an iconic shop that stays true to the authentic barbering experience and I wanted to emulate that authenticity with Eastown. Casa London: You recently hired two other female barbers. How have they been received by your clients? K: There is a definite difference between this shop and a shop with male barbers only and our clients love it. I believe they feel more pampered and enjoy the experience immensely. We are qualified barbers, cutting mainly men’s hair with a somewhat softer touch. Casa London: Besides the fresh haircuts, what other services does Eastown Barbershop offer? K: Well, we are now becoming more known for our beard work; hence, the coined term “The Beard Whisperers.” Eastown Barbershop is one of the few shops in the city to use straight razor and offer hot towel shaves, which is comparable to a facial for men. We also carry hair and beard grooming products and can advise men about best practices for keeping their beard soft and looking good. After all, if they want someone to kiss them, they need to think about things like this and we can help.
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Casa London: What are you most proud of since taking on this business journey? K: I am most proud of the fact that I have taken a struggling business and in two years, turned it into a successful, thriving barbershop that people in London are talking about. We have grown our presence on Facebook and Instagram, which has ultimately helped grow our following to what it is today. I also hired very carefully and am lucky to have found Sam and Chelsea, two very talented female barbers that make this journey even more fun. I am proud to say that at Eastown, we have created an atmosphere that stays true to the classic barbershop. The Eastown experience is one that’s fun, entertaining and welcoming – no matter your age, gender or amount of hair on your head. We even have Bella the Barbershop Dog to greet you at the door and make you feel welcome. Try it yourself at 1498 Dundas Street East, London, Ontario and follow Eastown Barbershop on Facebook and Instagram.
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But first, tacos...
Interview and photos: Anna Orishchenko
On August 26, 2017 at Covent Garden Market from 3pm till 12am London will be celebrating its very first Taco Fest hosted by Stereo Caliente Entertainment. Taco Fest will feature 12 food vendors offering authentic tacos, quesadillas, churros, elotes desgranados and more. At the Beer Garden you will be able to buy tequila shots, Mexican cocktails such as Michelada and Margaritas, and, of course, craft beer from Anderson Craft Ales, Forked River Brewing, and Steam Whistle. Casa London met with Pablo Tovar, a vigorous music promoter and the owner of Stereo Caliente Entertainment, to chat about upcoming Taco Fest. Casa London: Pablo, tell us a The key of the taco is a little about corn or wheat tortilla you, your which comes with beef, background, and your idea of the pork, chicken, fresh fest? P: I am a Colombian guy avocado and cilantro, who moved to London 14 sauces and vegetables years ago. My passion has always been music and food. So, I’ve always been organizing special events trying to exceed expectation of the audience. The idea of the London Taco Fest is to support small businesses while serving the best tacos in London and pairing it with craft beer and tequila. It will be fun and delicious, an event to connect and support the Community of London. And who doesn't love tacos?! Casa London: So… tacos. Imagine (yes, it’s hard, I know) that there are people who have never tried tacos. Tell us about it, describe it. Why should we try? P: Tacos are traditional street food from Mexico. A tasty yet nutritious, simple and made from scratch dish - that is the reason everyone should try it. The key of the taco is a corn or wheat tortilla which comes with beef, pork, chicken, fresh avocado and cilantro, sauces and vegetables. At the London Taco Fest you will find traditional tacos as well as vegan and vegetarian tacos.
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traditional tacos as well as vegan and vegetarian tacos. Casa London: And tell us about Quesadillas, Churros, and Elotes desgranados. What does make it authentic? P: The quesadillas are a little bit similar to tacos, but in this case the quesadilla comes with cheese, meat, vegetables, and then it’s grilled. We will serve organic Quesadillas at the London Taco Fest. And after a nice meal you need a nice dessert, here comes the churros: a fried dough pastry with Nutella, caramel and other delicious sauces. Elotes Desgranados are mix of sweet corn, meat, and sauces, such as tartar sauce. All these dishes you will find at any street in Mexico. Casa London: What’s so special about London Taco Fest? What are you most proud of? P: Well, its very first Taco Fest in London, and I am proud that we can offer something new to the London community. Are you a fan of tacos? Come to the Taco Fest! Have never tried tacos before? Come to the Taco Fest! Do you love meat? Come to the Taco Fest! Are you vegan or vegetarian? Come to the Taco Fest! Join the Taco Fest, support small businesses, drink local craft beer, and try something new. Isn’t it what we are living for?
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Casa London: I guess, you are right! Meanwhile, can you share any authentic recipe with us, so we can practice at home to prepare our taste buds for the London Taco Fest? P: Try my favourite drink called Michelada (Spanish pronunciation: [mit e'laða]). It’s easy to prepare at home. Mix in desired proportions: • lager beer • Clamato juice • 3-4 splashes of a hot sauce (Tabasco, Tapatio, or other). I usually use Tabasco • 2 splashes of Worcestershire sauce • Juice of one lime Douse a rim of a glass into Tajín Seasoning (or salt), serve with ice.
We definitely feel the urge to visit London Taco Fest! Follow the event page on Facebook for the details and announcements. And let’s make every day a taco day!
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Photo by Will Shenton Source: https://bevvy.co/cocktail/michelada/fcp
The Social Beehive Interview and photos: Anna Orishchenko
Meet Heather Cabral and Christine Stowe, two people who are passionate about personal change, conscious community and about enabling people to embrace a life guided by purpose and Intention. The Social Beehive hosts workshops, events and gatherings and is a community of people and businesses who are living their biggest, fullest life! We are sitting at their headquarters at 605 Dufferin Ave, it’s hot and a busy day outside, I set my speech recorder, and so it begins - a story of two ladies who are determined to make an impact. Casa London: Please tell us about your venture. What is this all about? H: The Social Beehive is a community space for people and local organizations who align with our values: kindness, generosity, compassion, honesty, and conscious awareness. With our new headquarters, we are building a calendar of events that hosts workshops from personal improvement to professional growth We are looking and development. We host events and for people who are gatherings that leave ready to invest in you feeling inspired, self improvement creative, and empowered! Casa London: How long have you been doing this? H: Technically, since November 2015 - that’s when I bravely hosted my first official Social Beehive event! What has followed since then is a lot of trial and error, facing and overcoming fears, huge successes and a whole bunch of personal and professional growth. Casa London: Who are the people you would like to see at your events? Who is your target audience? H: Our main focus is on building an empowered community. We desire to attract attendees who are tired of going through the motions of life and who are ready to utilize their free will for change. People who are looking for the tools, support and
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motions of life and who are ready to utilize their free will for change. People who are looking for the tools, support and resources to do so. We are looking for people who are ready to invest in self improvement both financially and spiritually and truly commit to being the best version of themselves. One of the things that makes us stand out is that we don’t just focus on one group of people or businesses vs. individuals. Our values and desire for more qualifies you for our community. Casa London: Please tell us more about your signature events - Inspiration Fest and Conscious Christmas. H: The basis of any event that Conscious Christmas is we do at The a show to inspire Social Beehive is purposeful gift giving about relationships and meaningful connection. In July, we hosted Inspiration Fest on the Green in Wortley Village. The day included almost 70 local organizations who were there not to sell, but to create an experience for curious attendees. With no pressure of the dreaded one-time-sale, attendees were able to connect with businesses in a totally different, more meaningful way. There were over 20 inspirational speakers on two stages, and activities such as guided painting, lip balm making, knitting, yoga, belly dancing, painting, meaningful conversation corner, crocheting, obstacle courses, Arabic calligraphy, and more. It was a day of inspiration as festival go-ers tried new things and met new people! Conscious Christmas was created due to our society’s inundation of “stuff”. It’s a show to inspire purposeful gift giving. Conscious Christmas will again feature like-minded, value-aligned local businesses who are there to promote gift experiences that will enrich or enhance your loved ones lives. Casa London: What businesses are you already connected with? C: We have a great network of business that range from massage services to knitting classes. We work with life coaches, art-
C: We have a great network of business that range from massage services to knitting classes. We work with life coaches, arttherapists, the aboriginal community, and several non-profits. First and foremost, we believe in collaboration and partner with businesses who align with our values and visions for events, workshops and gatherings. Casa London: Returning to my first question, what made you to start all this? What was the first spark that lit that inspiration fire? H: About 11 years ago I had twin boys who were born with life threatening heart and lung issues. The first 5 years with the boys were spent in isolation, committed to giving them the best start in life. After those 5 years they had defeated their diagnosis, were healthy and strong and somewhat unexpectedly, we sent them off to public school. At that point our life began. We were now able to go to family gatherings, parties, community events, libraries, church and experience things we were never able to do before. We faced life with more gratitude, stronger faith and with this second lease on life, had a desire to live life with more purpose. It was the search for people who embraced life without excuses and believed in possibility that led me to create The Social Beehive. Casa London: And how did you meet each other? C: I attended Inspiration Fest in its first year, last summer. And then I signed up for Wine, Women, and Meaningful Conversation (now Winning Women and Meaningful Conversation) event 6 months later. I really enjoyed the concept of meeting people without having to focus on where I work and how much money I make and instead focus on authentic connection and meaning. Heather has a great skill at facilitating conversation and so feeling inspired I messaged her in private about facilitating the topic of meaningful work. When Heather first read the message, she thought I was asking for a job or who she may know that was hiring and as she pondered who to refer me to she realized she needed help with Inspiration Fest and instead invited me to work with her! The rest became history! We are working really hard together, and
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help with Inspiration Fest and instead invited me to work with her! The rest became history! We are working really hard together, and the connection is unreal! We have very different skill sets that mesh with ease and have a mutual gratitude for each other. We laugh a lot and have a lot of fun in everything we do! Casa London: What events are planned for the nearest future? C: We have a Bullet Journal workshop on August 22, our newly named Winning Women and Meaningful Conversation event is planned on September 12 which will feature Tammy Price, a best selling author and Medical Intuitive. We are receiving applications for different events every other day and working on our schedule for the fall right now. Every second Sunday we host a group of Spiritual Seekers with conversation about exploring life. We talk about creativity, freedom, holistic healing, and general topics that help spark imagination and thinking outside of the day-to-day box. Our next two large events are Conscious Christmas on November 19th and Spirituality Expo in January 2018. Everyday we utilize our space to connect like minded people to brainstorm projects with possibility or assist those who simply want to be held accountable. Casa London: I saw your Winning Women, and Meaningful Conversation events being advertised on Facebook. What is this about? H: We are trying to do it monthly with August being the exception due to holidays. It’s a thought-provoking event with facilitated conversation. We tend to hold them in different venues some with a food component or a powerful speaker. We have a varied age group of attendees which makes discussion around questions of life, spirituality, growth, love, self care and more very interesting. There are ground rules to attend: At Winning Women, and Meaningful Conversation I invite you to take your business hat off at the door. The event is about showing up as your authentic self, it’s not about what you do, it’s about who you are. An unspoken rule is that we do not exchange business cards. It’s not a networking session, it’s about us. It’s about deep meaningful connection and
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rule is that we do not exchange business cards. It’s not a networking session, it’s about us. It’s about deep meaningful connection and hosting the safe space where it is ok to be vulnerable. Casa London: Is it for women only? H: Winning Women and Meaningful Conversation is, but we do invite men and youth to many of our other events. Casa London: And what is the response from the community on such events? H: Well, we’ve sold out every Winning Women, and Meaningful Conversation event in 2017. In March we had an International Women’s Day Special edition - we had almost 50 tickets sold and a waitlist! This year’s Inspiration Fest went from 35 Partners to 70 and we had over 1000 people attend the event. The Social Beehive page has been steadily growing and full of engaging topics of conversation. Casa London: What is Conscious Christmas? H: The Christmas event is going to be hosted at Boyle Community Centre on Sunday, November 19. It will feature about 50 different partners who will help create a simplified one-stop shopping experience. Prior to the event, we will release a list of offerings and a site map. People on a strict timeline or who are easily overstimulated or overwhelmed by busy spaces can plan their visit, pop-in, easily buy what they want, get eco-friendly gift wrapping and be on their way. This is not a regular Christmas show with overflowing tables of stuff. Conscious Christmas is making it easy to buy unique gifts that will enrich or enhance your loved one's life or impact a deserving person in the community. Instead of buying gifts for the sake of buying gifts, we are making it easy to be imaginative in your gift giving. For example, we have partnered with ReForest London, so you can purchase a tree as a gift, which will be planted in the spring with your loved one at ReForest London’s annual spring planting ceremony. At present, we are carefully considering other organizations who will provide opportunities to positively impact those in our community. 58
More details can be found at www.ConsciousChristmas.
in the spring with your loved one at ReForest London’s annual spring planting ceremony. At present, we are carefully considering other organizations who will provide opportunities to positively impact those in our community. More details can be found at www. ConsciousChristmas.ca Casa London: What is the future for The Social Beehive and its Community? H: I see a community of empowered people and businesses who are living fully despite society’s rules. A community who is questioning the norm, holding personal boundaries and is making decisions based on what will make them happy. I see a community of people who are showing up, investing in themselves, supporting and assisting one another to grow both personally and professionally. In this country, possibilities are endless. If we’re not happy, we need to look in the mirror, be courageous and bravely do what makes our soul happy. It is my vision to see others flourish and the ripple effect of healthy, empowered people and organizations on family units, youth, communities, the environment and other members in our society. When you are ready to design your dream life….we’ll give you the brush! Join their journey at: https://www.facebook. com/TheSocialBeehive/ and find an event to attend. An event that will possibly change your life for good!
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Suzanne Faris Handmade things Interview & Photos: Anna Orishchenko Edit: Mari Udarbe
I first met Suzanne Faris at a craft show in London last Fall. Since then I remember her unique and one-of-a-kind handbags made from waxed canvas. Being a kinesthetic person, I immediately fell in love with its texture and well done details. The stylish design and noble shades make Suzanne’s handbags perfect for every occasion. It is worth mentioning that another one of Suzanne’s hits are her hand stamped flag pillows. If you ever wanted to add some stylish yet patriotic touch to your living room - these are the best. We met with Suzanne in her beautiful home in St. Thomas to discuss what it’s like to be an entrepreneur living in a small town, but in the XXI century. Casa London: Please tell us about your venture, how long have you been doing it, and how did the idea come to you? S: It began as a hobby craft project that I started with my sisterin-law. We did it for fun mostly, but then it started to grow, so I started an online shop. I introduced my handbags just a year ago, and I’ve been making the flag pillows for 2 years now. It is still growing and it’s amazing how you can be a stay-at-home mom in a small town and sell to people online all over North America. I am so surprised to see where my products go places where I wouldn’t have access to on my own or with only craft shows. Casa London: Such as? S: Well, probably half of the items go to the cities like New York, Brooklyn, San Francisco, and Chicago. I’ve started to wholesale as well, so my flag pillows can be found in stores all across Canada and the US. I even had an order from Australia, which is super exciting! Obviously, the Americans love the American flag pillows, the Canadians love the Canadian flag, and the Australians love the Union Jack pillows! This was the product I started selling and getting success with. My waxed handbags began as a personal passion, I always thought that waxed canvas was an awesome material, so I bought some and started experimenting with making bags. It gained interest among my buyers and I received a request for smaller bags which I am working on right now. I am also introducing new styles along
some and started experimenting with making bags. It gained interest among my buyers and I received requests for smaller bags which I am working on right now. I am also introducing new styles along the way, so this product has a lot of potential for diversity and creativity. I am ordering materials in bulk, and trying to figure out how to make the bags in larger numbers and in a shorter period of time to keep up with orders. That’s definitely a healthy challenge! Casa London: Where do you buy your waxed canvas, leather, and other materials? S: The printed fabrics I actually print myself! Casa London: Oh, really? S: Yes! I have a giant stamp standing in my workroom. You can see my hand stamped prints on my pouches.
Waxed canvas can be compared with a leather, but it’s not so heavy
Casa London: And how do you create these patterns? S: All the patterns come from my own drawings. I took a Zentangle Drawing Class a couple of years ago which inspired one of the prints. I carve the designs into lino and then print them. The leather comes from the US. I order it from an Amish community, but then I finish it myself. I dye it using natural materials, punch holes, cut it and sew it. So, my creations come all the way from an idea in my head to a finished product, all made from scratch. Casa London: Why waxed canvas? What’s so special about it? S: First of all, it’s water-resistant, which is really good for handbags. It can be compared with a leather, but it’s not so heavy. It will age with patina like a leather does. The original use, when it was first developed way back, was to use it on ships where conditions are harsh. It is a very dated technique that is making a coming back these days.
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It will age with patina like a leather does. The original use, when it was first developed, was for use on ships where conditions are harsh. It is a very old technique that is making a comeback. Casa London: I saw some drawings on the walls of your workroom. Are you an artist or a designer? S: Yes, I am an artist. I graduated as a graphic designer and had been working as a freelancer for 5 years. Then my kids came into my life, and although I was trying to do graphic design freelance off and on at that time, I realized it’s hard with my kids being around. Computer work demands a lot of attention, you can not just drop what you’ve been doing and then return and proceed again from that point. Being an artistic person I also drew a lot and tried new techniques, but eventually I began to sew. My mom taught me when I was a child, and I was always experimenting with making my own things. So, I would say I am getting back into sewing but with all the skills and experience of a graphic designer. All the things I learned as a graphic designer about balance, and elements, and how to make a good design, and create patterns - all these I applied to very hands-on craft, which I love. Computer work is great, but we are all on the computer so much. There is nothing like making something with your hands. Casa London: It’s interesting that these days we are returning to our roots when everything craft and handmade are being so trendy. Is it a response to our high stressful life or just a matter of fashion? S: I think historically the Industrial Age revolutionized everything with manufacturing. It allowed prices to drop, which we loved because people could afford things they needed or wanted. But we have so many manufactured things now, and many of us have grown up never having to made anything ourselves because we just purchased everything. I think there is something therapeutic in making things, and we want to revive the skills. We want to remember how things used to be done generations ago. I think, ultimately, we all are creators. We want
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I think there is something therapeutic in making things
Ultimately, we all are creators
the skills. We want to remember how things used to be done generations ago. I think, ultimately, we all are creators. We want to create something whether it’s music, or art, or physical things, or growing a garden. And that becomes very important with the rise of technology when so much of our work now is done in front of screens. Casa London: What about your family? You have 4 daughters who see not only a creative part of your job, but a routine every entrepreneur does on a daily basis. I guess you must be their personal hero, right? S: I stepped away from being a graphic designer when I thought it was conflicting with my duties as a mother. I wanted to be around my kids, but I soon realized that there is a part of me that was dying. I needed to make, I needed to create, I needed to express my ideas. I came to the conclusion that it is a very important thing to teach your kids to live a passionate life. Yes, it makes all of us busy; however, the girls help me participate in trade shows, they help with some minor details, leather strips, etc. And they really like it, they are very excited every time my phone notifies us of an online sale. Essentially, I’m trying to draw them into the business, I want them to see that my success is their success as well. I want to show them that they can live pursuing their dream and they can create things out of nothing. Casa London: How would you describe the modern small businesses scene? Is the #shoplocal movement something that helps your business a lot? S: I think as mush as [small businesses] are popular right now, it starting to fill up. There are lots of small businesses right now which is awesome, there is a room for everyone. And it gets easier to advertise yourself and reach out to your audience with social media and the Internet. I think if I was relying on sales only in my local area I would not have a viable business. Because of the Internet, because of my ability to market my products on a larger scale, I can reach a wider audience that is available. I’m not trying to sell only locally; however, I think if someone can find something
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scale, I can reach a wider audience. However, I think if someone can find something they want being produced locally, they really value it. Casa London: How often do you participate in trade shows and where your products can be bought? S: Mostly, I sell online on Etsy. I took part in Etsy: Made in Canada show in London, a couple of small trade shows in Ottawa, and OOAK show in Toronto. I am finalizing my show schedule for the next year: however, all my handbags, flag pillows, pouches can be found online any time. Casa London: Any plans for the future? New product launch? S: I do work on new patterns and there will be new products launched Fall 2017. These will be small batches, very unique. I am working on selling my products to stores as well. Stores currently selling my products in Ontario include the AGO in Toronto, Distill Gallery, the ME to WE store in Ottawa, Makerhouse, Heirloom 142, Plank + Barn, Distill in Stratford and here in London at Desi's to mention a few. Casa London: So, back to your handbags - what are the care instructions? How long does a handbag last? S: Basically, the care is very simple - just wipe it clean with a wet cloth from time to time. As it is made from waxed canvas, it will last years. Casa London: And what is your price range? S: My products are from $24 to $142. I also do custom orders even if it’s just to add a couple new pockets to one of my handbags. You can find Suzanne Faris products on Etsy, or follow her on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest news, trade shows’ announcements, and new products launches.
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A Piece of Cake
Prepared by London Economic Development Corporation
The Original Cakerie has found sweet success in the agricultural heartland of Southwestern Ontario and London’s proximity to raw materials. Keeping more than 1,300 cows and 56,000 chickens employed every year is literally a piece of cake for The Original Cakerie - a leading manufacturer of premium frozen desserts for retail and foodservice customers across North America. According to Suzanne Pottinger, Vice President of Employee Experience, the proximity to raw materials was a key factor in deciding to buy land and build a 125,000 square foot facility in London’s Innovation Park. “London is ideally located in the agricultural heartland of Southwestern Ontario providing us with multiple sources As people become more of dairy, eggs and health conscious and flour,” says Pottinger. The company mindful of locally sourced was also ingredients, food enticed by processors need to access to a highly skilled respond to their demands pool of talent with advanced manufacturing knowledge and expertise in quality assurance, maintenance, clean food handling, and product development - all by-products of London’s rapid growth as a hub for food and beverage processing. “We could have built this plant anywhere but London’s robust manufacturing sector, proximity to key distribution networks, and overall receptivity to growing its food processing sector was significant to our decision,” says Pottinger. London-Grown Innovation The sweet success of The Original Cakerie lies in its commitment
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London-Grown Innovation The sweet success of The Original Cakerie lies in its commitment to innovative, new product developments in response to consumer trends and retailer/customer demand. As people become more health conscious and mindful of locally sourced ingredients, food processors need to respond to their demands for natural flavours, no artificial trans fat and high standards of food safety. According to Pottinger, the London facility is a driving force particularly in the areas of product design and packaging. A key example is The Original Cakerie’s first retail brand ‘Inspired by Happiness,’ a gluten free line of products, which recently launched across North America. As one of the largest dessert manufacturers in Canada, The Original Cakerie’s layered cakes, bars, and brownies can be found in restaurants, in-store bakeries, and largescale facilities like universities and hospitals. “There is no question that the level of innovation here in London will only continue to grow,” says Pottinger. “We have every intention of continuing to
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grow,” says Pottinger. “We have every intention of continuing to invest in this facility and the people who have helped us to be successful.” Healthy Growth London’s food and beverage processing sector boasts an employee base of over 6,000 people - a number that has grown steadily over the past decade. As a key area of focus, the sector is well supported with infrastructure assets. London is in lockstep with the province of Ontario’s goal to create more than 100,000 jobs in agri-food by 2020, with the expectation that food processing will account for at least half that number. By building on the successful legacies of robust companies like McCormick Canada and Cargill Canada, London is poised to harvest rich rewards in this sector.
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Saturday, August 19 8 AM - 5 PM Boler Mountain 689 Griffith Street London,ON Find more details here
Story: Anna Orishchenko & Joan Sam. Photos: Anna Orishchenko; archives of London Public Library.
City Nomads We are introducing you a new topic of Casa London Magazine where we will discover beautiful houses of London, meet with owners, and chat about those buildings. Ever got lost on London streets and wondered “when was this house built?”, “who lived here?”, “what is the story behind this facade?”. Well, we are here to tell you all these: architectural style, first owners, changes of epochs from horse-drawn carriages to hybrid cars. These houses were here all the time, long before we were born, and they will stay here long after there will be no us. Let’s try to catch a moment and comprehend its beauty. The history of London starts around the corner! 31 Cartwright St, London, ON The house was originally built by Thomas Allen Rowat. Thomas immigrated to Canada from Scotland with his parents when he was 2 years old, and his family settled in Ontario. London archives tell us that Thomas A. Rowat owned and operated a grocery store T A Rowat & Co at 228 Dundas St. from 1887 to 1896, and then he moved his business to 234 Dundas St. In 1888, according to Inventory of Heritage Resources of London, he built his house at 31 Cartwright St. The architectural style is defined as Vernacular. Vernacular architecture is designed based on local needs, availability of construction materials and reflecting local traditions. At least originally, vernacular architecture did not use formally-schooled architects, but relied on the design skills and tradition of local builders. In this house Thomas A. Rowat had been living with his wife Elizabeth, and their children, for 35 years till the day of his death on October 31, 1923 at the age of 66. We found the photos of the T A Rowat & Co grocery store, Thomas himself, and his first son Thomas Purdom Rowat in 1901 London Old Boys Reunion book, which is being kept at the newly opened London Room at London Public Library. The only photo the house of Thomas A. Rowat can be seen at is the photo of a Demolition
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The city map. 1890ish
The city map. 1920ish
London Room at London Public Library. The only photo the house of Thomas A. Rowat can be seen at is the photo of a Demolition Act of the nearby house on 29 Cartwright St. (circa 1959). We can see 31 Cartwright St partly on that photo, but the house is recognizable, it is that house where Thomas A. Rowat lived, dreamed, hoped. Imagine all those years, all those people that used to live there. Children laughed, meals were cooked at the kitchen, flowers were grown on the front yard, friends were invited to share joy of the family success. Now there are new time, and the new owners who generously invited us in to make some photos. Of course, some renovations were made, some colours were changed, but if you close your eyes for a second you can easily imagine old days. It’s all there, it never faded away, and it will always be around us. Let’s tribute London’s history and people who made their input and left their mark. Their children, grandchildren, grand grandchildren are grew up, and maybe live somewhere else. But it all started here. London is where the roots are. Thanks to London Room staff for their help finding information in archives and to Lincoln, the current owner of the house, for making it all possible.
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See you soon!