GoodLife South Simcoe Winter 2017

ALLISTON | TOTTENHAM | BEETON | THORNTON | MANSFIELD | ROSEMONT | EVERETT | UTOPIA

WInter 2017

Holiday Treats

Inside designer

Sarah Richardson’s Creemore home GoodLife SOUTH SIMCOE edition

Celebrating Our Town Community Champions

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Kelly McCague Sales Representative

www.kellymccague.com kmccague@royallepage.ca Visit my website for additional photos and virtual tours.

ATTRACTIVE 51 ACRES (m/l) Great Property for your hobbies, horses & more. Convenient country setting with access to major roads, parkland, golf & Barrie. Enjoy the view of open hay fields, woodlands, wildlife & scenic sunsets from the generous sized windows & deck of the well maintained raised bungalow with separate basement entrance. $985,000 Numerous outbuildings include drive shed, barn & workshop. MLS# N3845457

Wishing All of My Clients Past and Present a Very Merry Christmas!

DIRECT 705-321-7295 OFFICE 705-435-3000 TOLL FREE 866-772-5368

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Light up her

Custom Designs Since 1958

Custom Design | Gold Buying | Estate Jewellery Specialists | Jewellery Repairs

Discover our services at BillLeBoeufJewellers.com 52 Dunlop Street West | Downtown Barrie | 705-728-3343

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contents W I NT E R 2 01 7

IN EVERY ISSUE

FOOD & DRINK

FEATURES

9

48

18

LIVING WELL News, tips and fun facts

66

IN THE CROWD

IN THE KITCHEN WITH...

Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery

54

LOCAL START UPS Four deliciously easy appetizers

Hall of Fame

HOME

TRAVEL

38

58

SARAH RICHARDSON GOES OFF GRID The celebrity designer and HGTV star shares the story behind designing and building her planet-friendly Creemore home

A roundup of real people doing good for their communities

26

25 THINGS TO DO IN NEW TECUMSETH THROUGH THE YEAR Activities, events and just plain fun for 2018

VAYCAY: TAHITI Island hopping in French Polynesia

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

30

THE GIBSON CENTRE The place where the arts community thrives

62

GIFT GUIDE Local finds for the special people on your holiday shopping list

4 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Cover photo by Ellie Kistemaker

Find the recipe on p.50

Winter 2017

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Real Estate

COUNTRY PROPERTIES – WINTERIZING Rob McDonough Sales Representative

Remax Chay Realty Tottenham 905-936-3500 416-294-3157

robmcdonough.ca

Well I hate to be the one that breaks the news to you but Winter is Coming and us Country Bumpkins need to prepare. Staying warm and protecting our property from the ravages of freezing temperatures is priority one. I hope that this may be helpful to those newly converted to the Country. As always the following is broken down into 5 Question/Answers.

Q. What should I do to prepare my House for the winter?

Here is a quick check list; • Check window and door caulking/seals • Re-paint any cracked and peeling areas • Clean out ease troughs • Drain outdoor pipes and bibs • Check roof shingles, place heat coils in Northwest side roof valleys and down spouts where ice jams occur.

• Check soffit, flashing, attic vents, and even brick wall drain openings as access points for our little rodent friends.

• Check for mortar cracks in brick, window sills and Chimney Caps. Seal before moisture gets in, freezes, expands and now you have a bigger crack!

• Have your chimney cleaned before you light your first fire.

Q. Our House does not feel as warm as I would like it?

Well first thing is you should improve your R-Factor of insulation. The easiest being your attic. Also you may wish to update your windows and doors. If you have high ceilings, then a ceiling fan placed in the air movement up position will help draw the cooler air up which will force the warm air aloft back down to warm you. You may also consider an auxiliary heat source such as a wood stove or insert.

Q. Isn’t Heating with Wood Expensive?

Not necessarily. Especially compared to the alternatives. Please don’t be lulled into a false sense of security with the present lower Hydro Rates.

My bet is that they won’t last much past the next Provincial Elections. Anyhow back to Wood. Buy fresh cut wood in the spring it’s much cheaper. Let it dry outside thru the summer and early fall. If you have any hardwood bush on your property well then get out the chainsaw and get cutting. Choose wisely your tree selection for cutting in a such a way as to open evenly your forest canopy. This way you will

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be improving your forest’s ability to regenerate. Buy a new generation Wood Stove/Insert as they have re-burn technology and are 97% or higher efficient giving greater heat and lower emissions.

Q. Speaking of Hardwood Bush. I hear I may get a Tax Break?

Yes, I digress, but I could not resist the Segway.

If you have 9.88 acres of Forested land you may qualify for the Managed Forest Program. Under this program you would pay 25% of the municipal tax rate set for residential properties. The plan is for 10 years and must be administered by a MNR Approver. The Ministry deducts 1 acre for your house and driveway so only properties of 11 acres or greater would potentially qualify.

Q. Back to Winterizing. Is there anything in the Barn that should be winterized?

Let’s start first with the Century Old Bank Barns. If you are lucky enough to have one of these treasures on your new property, then read on. These old barns like to have livestock in their bellies and hay on their shoulders. The weight of the Hay anchors the barn against the winter winds and the heat from the livestock maintains the moisture and warmth necessary for the health of the barn.

Now if you are like me and only have a plain pole barn or drive shed full of Tractors and Equipment well you too need to read on. All of your equipment needs to be winterized, especially those that won’t see use over the winter months. Here’s a list of things to consider; • Check all gear boxes for moisture.

• Stabilise or condition your fuel • Fill up your tires to prevent cracking over the winter. I even jack up the front end on my small tractors so the front tires don’t form flat spots that may then crack. If you can’t do that then try to move the tractor only enough to rotate the tires onto a new spot during the winter.

• Either take out the battery and store it in a warm spot or fully charge the battery and leave it in the tractor. A fully charged battery will not freeze.

Well that was easy…..lol. Now go and get ready to relax all winter in your warm and cozy house knowing that everything has been put to bed for the winter and will be ready for the warm spring thaw.

Happy Holidays!!!

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editor’s note

GOODLIFE GOODLIFE Publisher Dana Robbins

Regional General Manager Simcoe - York - Muskoka Shaun Sauve

Making Memories

General Manager Simcoe Elise Allain

This time of year always takes me back to the mouth-watering aromas coming from my mother’s kitchen. Her turkey was always juicy and accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes, broccoli casserole and homemade stuffing and gravy. And then there were the cookies: shortbread, gingerbread, pinwheels, thumbprints and usually some kind of square thrown in for good measure. She was — and still is — one of the best cooks I know, and her holiday feast was probably the highlight of the season for me.

With my own family, I confess, I have to take some shortcuts. Yes, I roast a wickedly good turkey and my garlic-whipped mashed potatoes are a family fave, but my stuffing comes from a box and my gravy from an envelope. And while I generally make about three kinds of cookies (often with children assisting), I don’t shy from supplementing my seasonal treats with offerings from local bakeries. That’s why I’m delighted to feature the delicious work of Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery on our holiday cover and in our pages. After all, if you don’t have time to bake yourself, buying from a local bakery is the next best thing (and probably better than what I can cook up anyway).

Don’t feel like baking? Then step out and explore South Simcoe’s unique shops as you check items off your holiday gift list. Feel like staying in? Sit down, relax and read all about Alliston’s own Olympic soccer star Deanne Rose. Happy holidays!

Jacqueline Kovacs

Editor Jacqueline Kovacs Copy Editor Deanna Dority Advertising Manager Angela Makaroff Graphic Design Emily Ayranto Brenda Boon Nick Bornino Jennifer Dallman Luanne Turner Advertising Representatives Beth Wink Shalani Ingham Debbie Booth Christine Murray Mary March Stacey MacDonald Debbie Halikas Carolyn Brayiannis Shannon Dunlop Vic Dellamora Photography Contributions Mike Guilbault Photography, Ellie Kistemaker Editorial Contributions Leigh Blenkhorn, Liz Bruckner, Katherine Elphick, David Li, Karen Robock, Rachel Naud, Dawn Ritchie, Doug Wallace

169 Dufferin St., Alliston, ON L9R 1E6 Phone: 705-435-6228 Fax: 705-435-3342

Stuff I’m Swooning Over Over:

First Place

Statements opinions and points of view expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or GoodLife.

GoodLife South Simcoe is published four times per year: spring, summer, fall and winter.

For further information regarding all our products, we invite you to call us at 705-435-6228.

For the Foodie Christmas Spatulas, $2.97, Walmart and Walmart.ca

Gift Idea for Him Shoe Shine Kit, $34.99, At selected Winners

For the Beauty Junkie Wella Oil Reflections, $33.99 At selected hair salons

For advertising inquiries, please email: amakaroff@simcoe.com or goodlife@simcoe.com or call 705-435-6228 Digital Edition: goodlifemagazine.ca Follow us: twitter.com/goodlifebarrie

6 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Winter 2017

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The Whistle Stop Restaurant C A SU A L FI N E DI N I N G 7 Main St W, Beeton . 905-729-0399 . www.whistlestopbeeton.com

W

histle Stop Restaurant has been pleasing the palettes of foodies in the New Tecumseth area and beyond for the past 25 years. All the dishes that come from the kitchen are cooked to order with fresh and where possible local, Ontario or Canadian Grown food products.

Clara Viscardi, Owner and Chef takes great pride in each dish that she prepares but that is only part of the dining experience when you enjoy a meal at the Whistle Stop. The Whistle Stop restaurant ensure each of their staff members are knowledgeable in the Ontario Wines and the food they are serving. The restaurant ensures the customer has a complete dining experience allowing them to enjoy all the goodness of the food, service in a casual but elegant setting.

When designing the diverse menu, Clara ensure that she offered choices to please different palates and dietary requests. On any given night the special board features different choices that cannot be found on the regular menu.

The Whistle Stop has become known for their specialty nights, where they host a Ontario Wine Tasting Dinners to Game Meat Night to her most popular Lobster Fest night.

But you do not have to wait for a

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speciality evening to try the Prime Rib which is from a fresh never frozen Canadian Triple A cut. This meal has become a local favorite and you will see people coming each weekend to have this house speciality.

You don’t just end your day at the Whistle Stop but you can start your day there as well. The Whistle Stop Restaurant has become a popular breakfast place of many locals on Sundays. Start your Sunday with a Country style breakfast with farm fresh eggs and bacon and home fries. And make sure to check out the special board for her special breakfast treat.

Special occasions, work Christmas parties, retirement parties, or family celebrations that require a smaller venue to hold up to 60 people, the Whistle Stop Restaurant is the place to hold such events. From a private setting, to specifically design and catered menu to an amazing atmosphere it will be a evening to be remembered by all.

So many ask is it worth the drive to Beeton?

Our answers is simple, If you are thinking of a foodie night out or a place to take that special someone or even celebration dinner for an anniversary or special occasion the answer is definitely YES! You must come to the Whistle Stop Restaurant, you wont be disappointment.

7 Main St., W., Beeton 905-729-0399 www.whistlestopbeeton.com

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living well

Put a

Ring

on It!

It’s one of the most recognized signs of the holidays — a wreath, hung on a door, used as a centrepiece or populated with candles. But wreaths have been used since ancient times to denote people’s heritage, occupations and achievements. Later, as a Christmas symbol, the wreath’s circular shape and evergreen construction were said to symbolize spirituality and everlasting life. These days, though, wreaths come in a range of sizes and are made from a variety of materials, so you can easily find one to suit your own style and budget.

Pom Pom Wreath

Flocked Winter Wreath

Pre-Decorated Artificial Wreath

Holly Berry Wreath

$29.96, walmart.ca

$60.99, walmart.ca

$27.98, walmart.ca

$39.98, walmart.ca

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living well | Home

TREND:

The Rustic Touch

If wintry weather is giving you a bad combination of cabin fever and the chills, consider a little decor therapy.

The Rustic Collection from Canadian home fashion and decor shop Bouclair is a new line that’s sure to bring warmth to any home. Picking up on the trend of wood details with brushed-metal accents, the collection offers a sophisticated yet rustic look.

You can find such pieces as a metaland-wood two-door buffet, fabric sectional sofa, mirrored pinewood and metal coffee table, and more.

Priced from $169.99 to $1,999.99, bouclair.com — Rachel Naud

BREAKING TRADITION Of all the familiar sounds of the holidays, the one that makes us cringe is the smashing of fragile glass ornaments hitting the floor on decorating day. This is usually quickly followed by the shooing of pets and small children from the area to avoid cut feet. This Christmas, however, you can change that not-so-great tradition. These shatterproof ornaments have the lustre of real glass but the safe practicality of plastic. Available separately or in a combo pack. $3.98 to $19.98, walmart.ca — R.N.

Powerful Stat If you’re feeling the pinch to heat your home this winter, you’re not alone. According to the Fraser Institute, from 2008 to 2016, electricity prices in Ontario rose by 71 per cent. To reduce your heating bill, consider installing a programmable thermostat, such as the Honeywell 7-Day Programmable Thermostat (Best Buy, $89.99), to adjust your home’s temperature according to your schedule.

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO? Enbridge Natural Gas offers these tips: • Close doors in unused areas.

• Open blinds and curtains during the day to let the sun’s warmth in.

• Set the thermostat lower — a 3°C reduction can save you up to six per cent. — R.N.

10 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Bright Idea Remember the old “clap on, clap off” lighting system from the ’80s and ’90s? Well, new technology has pushed illumination light years forward. Philips Hue, from Philips Lighting, works seamlessly with voice-activated speaker Google Home. Use Google Home to control lighting and create the ideal ambience in your home. Simply say “Okay, Google, dim my dining room lights 20 per cent,” and your lighting wish will be Google’s command.

Meethue.com

SMART Grilling Well Done Barbecue season may be over, but grilling doesn’t have to wait until spring. This indoor grill combines the patented grilling technology from T-fal’s original OptiGrill with unique smart technology that lets you program your cooking setting and monitor the progress — all from an app on your smartphone. T-fal OptiGrill Smart, $329.99, available at Hudson’s Bay and Best Buy. — R.N.

Winter 2017

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of South Simcoe

Kitchens • Vanities • Closets • Bars • Built-Ins

COMPLETE KITCHEN

& BATH DESIGN ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

GRANITE • QUARTZ • WALL & FLOOR TILES • FIXTURES

Complimentary In-Home Consultations • In-House Contractors & Designers

Julia Fox 705-434-0000 • Mark Gurski cell 905-801-5147 4941 Dean Dr, Unit C, Alliston • www.thegranitecompany.ca

Wendy Small Sales Representative Representa

Call me for your complimentary home evaluation!

wendysmall@royallepage.ca • www.wendysmall.com

62 Riverview Road, Alliston

TWO WORDS – PRIVACY & PARADISE! Tucked back on Riverview Rd & overlooking the Nottawasaga River, this updated home ticks most of the boxes on your wish list!

• Updated kitchen with granite & s/s Jennair appliances • Open concept living and dining spaces • Gas fireplaces • Hardwood flooring • Master with an updated 5 pc ensuite, • Large walk in closets, • Main floor laundry • Walk outs on 3 levels • Finished lower level with a guest bedroom, 3 pc ensuite & a family room with walk out Offered at $629,900, this home is a 10+

RCR Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

Helping you is what we do.

Office 705.435.3000 Direct 905.724.0717 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 11

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living well | Food & Drink

That’s a Wrap?

Do you try to reduce waste with reusable containers, but end up using plastic wrap for food items that just don’t lend themselves to lidded containers? Here’s your green solution. These all-natural beeswax food wraps keep your leftovers fresher longer, reduce kitchen waste and make packing litterless lunches a snap. Just hand-wash in cold water and hang to dry, and you can reuse them again and again. $18 for 3 medium size at abeego.com — Karen Robock

TIP!

p!

Butter U tter for a

ened bu Need soft ring at a you’re sta t u b , e ip c re tter from of cold bu hard block lem. Just ? No prob the fridge ou need y amount e th te ra g sit on the l and let it w o b a to in minutes. r about 10 .R. counter fo king! — K Happy ba

WHAT’S COOKING?

Cheers!

For a personalized gift, write a message on a bottle using a metallic marker.

Whether you’re ringing in the New Year or toasting a holiday feast, your guests will appreciate having a splash of this pretty bubbly. This special edition bottle of rosé also makes the perfect gift for the Champagne lover on your list.

Laurent-Perrier Champagne, $99

Got a foodie on your gift list? Or maybe the chillier temperatures are inspiring you to whip up big family dinners and lots of comfort food. Whatever the reason, you’ll find loads of mealtime inspiration in this season’s hottest cookbooks.

Set-it-and-forgetit meals make weeknight dinners a snap. Leave it to Martha to show us how to make everything from cinnamon buns to stews in the good old slow cooker. Martha Stewart’s Slow Cooker, $35.

12 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Take “Meatless Monday” to the next level. Toronto-based YouTube star Candice Hutchings’ new collection features 138 vegan recipes that promise to satisfy even the most enthusiastic meateaters. The Edgy Veg Cookbook, $32.95.

Food writer Amy Rosen is back for seconds with a sequel to her bestselling Toronto Cooks, including 100 recipes by 50 of the city’s top chefs. Toronto Eats, $37.95.

— K.R.

Winter 2017

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ROB MCDONOUGH SALES REPRESENTATIVE

TEAM

Dir: 416-294-3157 • Off: 905-936-3500

ROB@ROBMCDONOUGH.CA • WWW.ROBMCDONOUGH.CA

Chay Realty Inc. Brokerage

5854 Concession Rd 2, Everett

3279 Simcoe County Rd 50, Loretto

835298 4th Line EHS, Mono

Restored To Original Victorian Glory. This 150 Acre Farm Has it All With Plenty of Workable Land, Forest, Multiple Out Buildings and Views For Miles. $1,695,000.

RobMcDonough.ca

Loretto Farm 98.55 acres on Township Designated Transport Corridor. Almost all Workable, Numerous Out Buildings, $1,600,000. RobMcDonough.ca

Mono 100 Acre Farm Complete With All Brick Victorian 5 BR Farm House, Large Bank Barn for Horses and/or Cattle, Drive Shed, Pasture and Workable Lands. $1,375,000.

RobMcDonough.ca

8521 10th Sideroad, Loretto

9160 25th Sideroad, Alliston

3 Cindy Lane, Lisle

Pristine 4 Bedroom, Log Home on 25 Acres with a Complimenting 5 Car Garage/Workshop/Office/Aux Residence, Clear,Treed, Pool and Stream. $1,195,000. RobMcDonough.ca

Hill Top Log Home With Private 834 Foot Frontage, on 2.5 Acres, Heated 4 Car Garage/Workshop, Fully Finished Walk Out Basement. $798,000. RobMcDonough.ca

Immaculate Cape Cod Style Home Nestled On A Mature Treed Premium Lot Of Over An Acre On Desirable Cindy Lane Backing Onto But Sheltered From The Golf Course. Sit On The Back Covered Porch With Your Morning Coffee Or Watch The Sunsets From The Front. The Open Concept Living Space Lends Itself To All Tastes And Configurations. $879,000. RobMcDonough.ca

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living well | Health

Puppy Love What parent hasn’t heard the plaintive plea: “Can we get a dog?” And often the answer is no, because of the work responsibility and sometimes a concern about the dirt and germs our four-legged friends may bring into our homes. But it may be time to give Fido a second thought. A new study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology suggests that exposing kids to pets and other common indoor allergens before age three may prevent the development of asthma and other respiratory issues. That’s right, having a pooch may be even better for your kids than you thought. Just be prepared to take over your pup’s care needs once the novelty has worn off! — Karen Robock

Burn Out

Get in Gear

This upgraded GPS sports band from Samsung boasts smart new features, including nutrition tracking, swim training and sleep monitoring. Take it on the trails, to the gym or in the pool, so there’s no excuse for missing a workout this winter.

Automatic activity detection will recognize when you’re active — and customized personal motivation can prompt you to get moving when you need a kick in the butt!

Gear Fit2 Pro, $299.99 — K.R.

Fans of scented rooms, you may want to shelve those incense sticks, say French researchers. It turns out they give off pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde when they burn, which can cause respiratory problems and may even be carcinogenic. And that’s not the only fragrant danger. The study, by Directorate-Generale for Competition, Consumer Affairs and the Prevention of Fraud, found that many plug-in air fresheners and scented candles can also be harmful to indoor air quality. They recommend limiting the use of these products and opening a window or door for at least 10 minutes afterwards. — K.R.

It’s The Balm

Beat dry, chapped lips this winter by treating your pucker to a layer of protective and nourishing moisture. We love that these lippies contain natural pout-protecting ingredients like beeswax, antioxidant-rich orange extract and green tea leaf. — K.R. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, $4.89 Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advanced Therapy, $32 Drunk Elephant Lippe, $22

Rest Assured We all know how important a good night’s sleep is to our health, so many of us aim for a good “sleep hygiene” routine, including a warm bath, no electronics and a cooler temperature in the bedroom. But when was the last time you thought about the state of your mattress? If it’s old (over 10 years) and looks saggy or feels lumpy, it’s time for an upgrade. Consider it your holiday gift to yourself! This made-in-Canada mattress uses CertiPUR-US foam, meaning it’s free of harmful chemicals, and contains a stay-cool top layer for a more comfortable trip to dreamland. Best of all, it’s easy: Buy online and your new mattress ships straight to your door rolled in a box the size of a hockey bag.

Just move it to your bedroom, unroll it and hit the sheets. Still not convinced? Endy mattresses come with a risk-free 100-night trial, so you can, ahem, sleep on it. — K.R. $775 for a double at Endy.com

14 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Winter 2017

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ALLISTON PAINT & DECORATING

FOR ALL YOUR DECOR, WINDOW COVERINGS, & PAINT NEEDS

NOW OPEN Newmarket Paint & Decorating 17480 Yonge Street (905) 898-0131 www.newmarketpaint.ca

Alliston Paint & Decorating 33 Young St Unit 3 (705) 434-0120 www.allistonpaint.ca

Karen Smith

Aurora Paint & Decorating 15216 Yonge Street (905) 727-8161 www.aurorapaint.ca

CALL ME FOR YOUR

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

COMPLIMENTARY HOME EVALUATION

EXECUTIVE TOWNHOUSE FOR LEASE: 50 HOARD AVENUE, ALLISTON MLS# N3896295 • $1,850.00 / MONTH

GREAT LOCATION FOR SALE: 50 DUNNING DRIVE, ALLISTON MLS# N3926108 • $568,500.00

Stunning open concept 4 bedroom end unit townhouse with double garage. Offers a generous living room and dining room and walk-‐out from the eat-‐in kitchen. Master has an en-‐suite with his and her walk-‐in closets and laundry room on the upper level.

Close to parks, schools, golf, Honda and minutes to highway access for GTA.

Fabulous 4 bedroom home in family friendly neighbourhood. Approximately 2100 square feet, open concept, with main floor den, eat-‐in kitchen with walkout to deck and fenced yard. Finished basement with guest bedroom and bathroom. Laundry on upper floor. Master bedroom has en-‐suite and his and her walk-‐in closets. Close to parks, schools, golf, Honda and minutes to highway access for GTA.

sellwithkarensmith.ca www.sellwithkarensmith.ca

RCR Realty, Brokerage

Independently Owned & Operated

OFFICE: 705-435-3000 CELL: 905-967-5092 GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 15

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living well | Travel

Stopover: Los Angeles On your way to Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii or Tahiti? Los Angeles is a cool place to pause en route to break up the journey. It also makes a great city start to a beach break if you’re heading to Mexico’s west-coast hot spots. For your short visit, it’s best to pick one or two neighbourhoods to concentrate on, rather than spreading yourself too thin around too much. Setting up home base in West Hollywood puts you within easy reach of the sensations of Sunset Strip, the riches of Beverly Hills, the glamour/ seediness of Hollywood proper and the serenity of Venice Beach. Foodies will have trouble narrowing down their restaurant choices. This is a town where even the burger joints make the top-10 lists. You’ll definitely need a car and a plan mapped out in advance — L.A. is not a place to wing it. Mix the kitsch with the cool stuff for an allaround great weekend. discoverlosangeles.com. —Doug Wallace

Turndown: Chic by Royalton All Exclusive Resort PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC This all-inclusive, adults-only hot spot on golden Uvero Alto Beach sports a glam Miami South Beach feel, with its five à la carte restaurants, 24-hour room service and premium drinks at six bars. It comes complete with an upscale casino, a stateof-the-art health and fitness complex and a headache-erasing Detox Oxygen Bar for short recreational oxygen shots. Go for the Diamond level for the butler perks and privileges. From $300, chicresorts.com. —D.W.

16 | GoodLife South Simcoe

ESSENTI A L :

Sound Investment Isolate earplugs are a smart choice for travellers looking to catch a proper 40 winks. Tune totally out with an aluminum, titanium, gold or rhodium finish. The aluminum version comes in a range of colours, while the denser titanium can sport a natural or mirror finish. Two sizes, too: standard (4 mm) and mini (2.5 mm, shown).

From $40, flareaudio.com. — D.W.

Flight Plan: See Ya! Canadians made

32.3 million overnight trips outside the country in 2015, of which 82% were for leisure.

This is more than twice as many international leisure trips per capita than

in the United States.

Winter 2017

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Our Town

Celebrating

the best

Community of the

Community Heros | Fun Things To Do | Explore The Gibson Centre

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our town | Community Champions

Historian Bert Platt loves where he lives

BY JANIS RAMSAY |

Photo by Janis Ramsay

Historian Bert Platt loves burrowing into history.

Beeton historian Bert Platt compares himself to a gopher, burrowing through information when he’s on a hunt for history.

Born in Toronto, Platt came to Beeton as a child.

“I remember them building the arena. It was a big story in 1949 and I was there opening night. I was a pip squeak and nobody had any money,” Platt said.

Now he’s fighting to get a new arena built in his town.

Platt’s passion comes from the fact that he loves where he lives.

“I’ve always been interested in the town and used to go up to the manor and talk to the old guys. They love to talk."

But he hated history books in school, because they were boring.

"History has to be a story," the former teacher said.

Platt’s first foray into preserving the past was at 15, when council was going to tear down the mill.

“It used to be a cheese factory. It was this cute little mill with wooden wheels. Even as a kid, I admired the skill and workmanship.”

He went to the council meeting to say his peace, but his words didn’t inspire a change of mind and he cried as he watched them take it down.

“I knew it should have been saved.”

That’s why he has authored a handful of books and gives lectures now, to save what he knows.

Platt is also credited for stumbling upon a painting of town founder, D.A. Jones, in an attic.

A neighbour, veterinarian Doc McKelvey, had given Jones a few beehives as a joke. The idea took off, with the area being nicknamed ‘Bee town’.

The rest is history.

Baseball players take pride in being caretakers of the community

BY BRAD PRITCHARD

18 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Over the years, the league has helped various charities, like Help The Kids Play, which was born from league members and has helped over 100 kids play sports over the past 11 years.

In July, the Oldtimers hold a major tournament fundraiser for the charity, whose founder Ed Hopkins still plays in the league.

The league has also developed a close working relationship with the town to improve local parks.

About eight years ago, the Oldtimers donated about $10,000 and labour to re-sod the field at Keogh Park.

“We had 30 guys here that Saturday morning,” he said. “It was supposed to take all day but I think we got it done in two hours.

There’s just that level of volunteerism here.”

Photo by Brad Pritchard

What sets the Tottenham Oldtimers SloPitch League apart from big-city sports organizations is the drive of its players to make the community a better place.

The league remains as vibrant as ever since its founding 31 years ago in 1986.

“It’s one of the longest sustained groups in the area,” said league president Doug Dwyer.

The league is open to players 35 years and over, with 204 players and 17 teams fielded this past season.

“We’re pretty inclusive,” he said. “We have five guys in their 70s, and our average age is about 57.”

One of the league's unique aspects is how players are redrafted every year, which ensures the same teams don't win every year.

“It’s very open and competitive, and only twice have we had back-to-back winners,” he said.

Dwyer said the players are highly regarded for being citizens first.

Doug Dwyer, president of the Tottenham Oldtimers Slo-Pitch League, at the Keogh Park baseball diamond. Sept. 15, 2017.

Winter 2017

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2017-11-10 2:25 PM

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our town | Community Champions

Remembering Michael with memorial golf tournament

BY JANIS RAMSAY

Photo by Janis Ramsay

Kerry Worrod organizes an annual golf tournament in memory of his son, Michael.

Kerry Worrod had never really organized an event before planning his first golf tournament.

He started the charity tournament a decade ago after losing his son Michael in a car crash.

“Michael was 25 and worked at the Glen Eagle Golf Course,” Kerry said.

Michael was on his way home Dec. 18, 2007. when a dump truck pulling a trailer crossed the centre line, hitting Michael’s pickup truck head-on. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Michael is remembered for his endless smile and as an avid athlete, playing as Number 20 for the Tottenham Merchants baseball team.

The loss left a hole in the family, which decided to use their grief in a positive way.

The inaugural Michael Worrod Memorial Golf Tournament had 250 golfers and 270 at the dinner.

Kerry was blown away with the money

he raised and decided to support various community causes.

“The first year, so many people said I’ve got to keep it going.”

Michael loved kids, so proceeds go toward the Make a Wish Foundation, Help The Kids Play charity, Good Shepherd Food Bank and Lions Hall for getting Christmas gifts for teenagers.

He also gives money to random residents in need, such as children needing wheelchairs or medical assistance.

Ten years after the first event, Kerry is still surprised by the support, with this year’s tournament raising $18,500.

With family members Betty Worrod, Lynette Collins and Corena Cane organizing the day, Kerry said the event is like a reunion, where friends come and reminisce about Michael.

“It’s bittersweet. Michael would be honoured. He loved kids.”

Grassroots philosophy inspires Marc Ronan

BY JANIS RAMSAY

20 | GoodLife South Simcoe

his great-uncle, and sponsored music awards at St. Thomas High School and his alma mater, St. James Catholic School in Tottenham.

“When the Thompson Feed Mill (Tottenham Feed Service) burnt down (in 2004), we raised $150,000 to get the Thompsons back on their feet again,” Ronan said, adding that happened within a month. “That was a cool thing. The farming community came together.”

Ronan is proud of his four children and was a TNT minor hockey coach for a decade as they were growing up.

In 2001, he even donated a kidney to his sister.

Ronan still gives to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, Matthews House, Sunshine Kids, CONTACT, Community Living Association for South Simcoe, My Sisters Place and area hospitals.

The newest partnership is with the Alliston and District Humane Society, with an Adopt-aPet program.

Ronan added he isn’t afraid to step up and take charge when help is needed, but prefers to work behind the scenes.

Photo by Janis Ramsay

Whether it’s business or personal, Marc Ronan helps families in his community.

And his own roots go deep in the Tottenham area.

“My family came over from Ireland in 1846 and we’ve lived here my entire life,” Ronan said.

With six siblings, Ronan learned early about the importance of working together.

“We were a local farming family and it’s been instilled in me to have a grassroots approach,” he said.

At 19, he got into real estate and said the community supported his business.

“They’ve given me the ability to do business in this community. They’ve given me their trust.”

So it came natural for him to give back.

For years, Ronan has held an annual Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty charity golf tournament, raising more than $200,000 for Sunshine Kids, an organization that helps children with cancer.

He helped get Monsignor J.E. Ronan Catholic School built in Beeton, in memory of

Marc Ronan has deep roots in the Tottenham area and gives back generously to the community that supports him.

Winter 2017

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Holidays

HEAR FOR THHEE Photo by Brad Pritchard

Meals on Wheels program supervisor Mary Murphy has been involved with the volunteer-run organization since the late 1980s.

Meals on Wheels program delivers more than food

BY BRAD PRITCHARD Mary Murphy didn’t see retirement as an excuse to take things easy.

The former nurse turned administrator signed up to volunteer with the Meals on Wheels program at Stevenson Memorial Hospital shortly after calling it a career back in 1988.

Initially, Murphy agreed to help out a friend who was running the program at the time. But when she was unable to return to her position, Murphy had no qualms about staying on as supervisor.

Murphy, now 88, started off organizing meals at the office, but she couldn't be limited to just one role.

“I was willing to do anything at all,” she said.

“So if they needed somebody because they were short a driver, I would be there.”

The program is run by a group of about 60 volunteers who organize and deliver meals to about 20 local residents three times per week.

Donations from local churches, the legion and local families have allowed the program to operate successfully for over 40 years.

While many of the clients are seniors, the program also helps people with medical conditions or other challenges.

“We try to help everyone we can,” she said.

“We had a young man who was in a bad car accident, and he was with us for about five years.”

All of the food is prepared fresh at the hospital’s kitchen and the meals cost $5 each.

To inquire about volunteer opportunities as a delivery person or as a dispatcher, call the hospital at 705-435-3377 ext. 1293.

Volunteer positions typically require a few hours of service per month.

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our town | Community Champions

Melanie Storteboom wears more than one hat to help others

BY BRAD PRITCHARD

Photo by Brad Pritchard

Volunteer firefighter Melanie Storteboom has found many ways to make a difference in her community.

Melanie Storteboom has discovered you don’t need bunker gear and a fire truck in order to offer a helping hand to your neighbours.

After the 27-year-old Everett resident became a volunteer firefighter in 2012, she came across an ad looking for people to participate in the Vision Mate Program offered through the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB).

She was soon paired with a client living near the south end of Adjala, a partially blind woman who had recently lost her husband. For two years now, she has visited her client every week for a few hours to offer companionship.

“She really appreciates my visits because it gives her good conversation,” she said. “And sometimes it’s nice to have someone who isn’t family to talk to.”

She discovered the benefits work both ways.

“It lets me get out of the house and have that human interaction, so it’s been great on both our parts,” she said.

While it can be challenging juggling the responsibilities of a full-time retail job and being a firefighter, she knew what she was getting into when she signed up.

“It helps you have a healthier lifestyle,” she said. “You’re not just going to the office every day doing the same thing day in, day out. It’s always different.”

Storteboom focuses much of her time on public education in schools to teach kids what to do when a fire breaks out at home.

“In the end it saves lives, so it’s very satisfying knowing what we are doing is really making a difference,” she said.

Her good deeds don't end there. In addition to cutting her hair on two occasions and donating the locks to be made into wigs for cancer patients, she has also volunteered to walk dogs at the local shelter.

Artists paint a picture of war and peace

BY JANIS RAMSAY

Photo by Janis Ramsay

Greg and Susan Hindle are working on the mural at the Alliston Memorial Arena.

22 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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“It’s public art and we get interaction from people as they recount their involvement in armed forces”

Artists Greg and Susan Hindle want to be sure their homage to soldiers and peacekeepers is accurate.

That is why they went to an Ottawa war museum to ensure their colour choices were perfect for Alliston’s mural beside the cenotaph.

Greg’s father was in the air force in the Second World War and his grandfather had lung problems after getting gassed in the Great War, which makes this project special for him.

The couple met years ago while studying fine art in Florence, Italy, and has lived in the area since 1984. Greg is the Gibson Centre's artist-in-residence.

The cenotaph committee invited the Hindles to start filling in a blank wall at the side of the Alliston Memorial Arena.

The first piece honours recent Afghanistan veterans, completed with the help of Canadian Forces Base Borden photos.

The next mural recognizes peacekeepers and those who served in the Korean War. “Our first priority was to get as much local as possible,” Greg said. “I also got images from the Museum on the Boyne.”

Finally, the couple is depicting the First and Second World Wars.

“Veterans come by and give us ideas and we get to hear the stories from local vets,” Susan said. “It’s personal to them.”

Being able to work on this project, which should wrap by Remembrance Day, has been very rewarding.

“It’s public art and we get interaction from people as they recount their involvement in armed forces,” Greg said. “In the bigger picture, it’s important for culture and from a historic perspective.”

People put their lives on the line, Susan said, and it is rewarding recognizing their sacrifice.

As a special touch, the Hindles invited community members to paint poppies to mark their family’s participation in the wars.

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our town | Community Champions

No challenge too tough to tackle for Nolan Nicklasson

BY BRAD PRITCHARD “A couple nights we filled up the car so much Letting your teammates down just isn’t an that my dad had to walk home,” he said. option in Nolan Nicklasson’s playbook.

His parents were quite impressed with how Over the summer, the TNT Express many bottles he managed to bring in.

Football Club and its players were forced to “We’re very proud of him,” take part in a bottle drive said Dan Nicklasson. “He’s after a major flooding event In less than definitely worked hard to help at the Mel Mitchel field in a month, he out his football club.”

Beeton damaged thousands Nolan, a centre on the of dollars worth of equipment managed peewee team who has been a in the field house. to bring in a TNT member for the past six The 11-year-old Grade 6 student from Angus whopping $1,100 seasons, is learning important lessons of helping others at a Morrison Public School was in empties. young age. set on doing his part, the He’s taken it upon himself only problem was that he was to make sure his younger going to be away that day on classmates get on and off the bus at their a family trip out east. designated stops.

So in the weeks leading up to the trip, Nolan Helping out the coach during practice has and his parents went knocking on doors also become a regular responsibility. throughout the neighbourhood to collect beer “I just wanted to help out,” he said. bottles, with each one bringing him 10 cents closer to his goal.

In less than a month, he managed to bring in a whopping $1,100 in empties.

Photo by Brad Pritchard

TNT Express Football player and Angus resident Nolan Nicklasson, 11, collected over $1,000 worth of beer and liquor bottles as part of fundraising efforts to replace equipment damaged during the June flood in Beeton. Sept. 15, 2017.

Peter Shmagola has always understood importance of giving back

BY BRAD PRITCHARD

Photo by Brad Pritchard

Peter Shmagola sure has made a name for himself in the local community, both as a successful business man and dedicated volunteer.

The 66-year-old Tottenham resident owns Parsons ADL, a company that designs, manufactures and distributes home health care products worldwide.

Peter Shmagola, from Parsons ADL in Tottenham, has supported many local groups over the years, both through his business and as a volunteer.

24 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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Art | Cards | Art Supplies | Gifts & Gift Certificates

About 70 per cent of the products made at the facility on the 15th Sideroad, east of Tottenham, are sold domestically. “We are very well known, both internationally and locally here in Canada”

Founded 34 years ago, the business quickly grew from its humble beginnings in a basement to a 27,000-square-foot facility that now employs 16 people.

About 70 per cent of the products made at the facility on the 15th Sideroad, east of Tottenham, are sold domestically.

“We are very well known, both internationally and locally here in Canada,” he said.

Shmagola is also an active member of the Beeton-Tottenham Chamber of Commerce and is proud of the numerous awards his business has earned over the years.

While his business does keep him busy, he has always found time to give back to his community.

In addition to being the past president of the Schomberg Fair, he has served on the community recreation improvement committee (CRIC) for 15 years and is also involved with organizing the annual golf tournament fundraiser for Community Living Association for South Simcoe (CLASS).

“I’m just that kind of personality that likes to volunteer, help others and be involved in the community,” he said.

His involvement with CRIC has been a high point, noting how the group has done everything from bring new playground equipment to the community, to supporting scouts and cadet units.

Through this business, he’s been able to support many community organizations, like the food bank, My Sister’s Place and local sports teams.

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our town | Things to Do

25

THINGS TO DO

in New Tecumseth through the year

BY JANIS RAMSAY

1.

SEE A CLASSIC

Fiddler on the Roof hits the South Simcoe Theatre stage from Nov. 2-19. www. southsimcoetheatre.com

2.

GET SOMETHING PERSONAL The Gibson Centre hosts Seasonal Wrapsody, a sale of fine handmade items by local artisans, from 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 3 and continues Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.nottguild.ca/events/seasonalwrapsody-2017

3. Â

GET IN THE KNOW ABOUT DIABETES

The sixth annual Banting Legacy Transition Symposium on diabetes, mental illness and youth in transition Nov. 15, from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Gibson Centre. kait@bantinglegacy.ca

4.

LIGHT IT UP

The annual Rotary Christmas Parade runs Nov. 18 in Alliston with the lighting of the tree at 5:30 p.m. on Victoria Street.

Potato Festival

26 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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5.

TAKE IN A FLICK

The TIFF Films on Screen presents Churchill at the Gibson Centre Nov. 26, a look at Winston Churchill’s angst over an allied invasion of Normandy. Show begins at 2 p.m.

6.

HOME Services

TAKE IN A PARADE

Tottenham is hosting its annual Santa Claus Parade and Festival of Lights on Nov. 2. Info@btbia.ca. Beeton hosts its Santa Claus Parade and Festival of Lights on Dec. 2. info@btbia.ca

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The Gibson Centre hosts Snow Queen by Stacey Lane Dec. 8-9. gibsoncentre.com/events/events/snowqueen-by-stacey-lane-

IN THE MOOD FOR A THRILL The 39 Steps thriller hits the South Simcoe Theatre Stage Feb. 8-25, with actors taking on 150 roles. southsimcoetheatre.com

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The Beeton Legion and Tottenham-Beeton District Chamber of Commerce hold an annual Family Fun Day in February, leading up to Family Day.

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SAVOUR SOME SWEETS

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The Cookstown Scandinavian Bazaar is held every April at the Laestadian Lutheran Church with a wide selection of homemade pastries.

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garlandhi.com GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 27

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our town | Things to Do

Tottenham Commuity Week

12.

FIND A TREASURE

13.

TAKE IN A SHOW

The annual Toot N Holler communitywide garage sale takes place on the last Saturday in April in Tottenham. Tbdcc.ca

Cookstown Steam Show

Harvest Moon Rising hits the South Simcoe Theatre Stage April 12-29 with a story about a family couple and their community. southsimcoetheatre.com

14.

SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

The community recreation improvement committee hosts its annual car draw and dance in May. Tottenhamcric.ca/events

15.

Taste of the Town

BUY IT FRESH

16.

GO FOR GLAM

17.

THE SPOKEN WORD

18.

EVERYTHING’S

The annual Scrubs and Stars Hospital Gala in May is hosted by the Stevenson Memorial Hospital Foundation and raises money for the area facility.

Four Play: A Showcase of Play Readings happens on the South Simcoe Theatre stage May 31-June 3.

Playwrights are wanted for the event.

Southsimcoetheatre.com

DUCKY

The Alliston Lions Club hosts the annual Boyne River Classic and Family Fun Day as a June fundraiser. Allistonlions.ca

The Alliston Downtown Farmers’ Market runs from May until October on Mill Street. Mingle with area producers to learn about their crops.

28 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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The Alliston Downtown hosts the Rurban Food Truck Rally in June to try the latest trends in fast food.

20.

GO TREASURE HUNTING

The annual Cookstown Wing Ding takes place on the first Saturday in June every year, starting at 7:30 a.m. cookstown.ca

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The Beeton, Tottenham Business Improvement Association hosts an annual Flavours in the Field event to savour the taste of farmers’ harvests in August.

24.

KIDS ON STAGE

The Crazy Pants Theatre Company hosts its annual season with local talent on stage. Call 905-801-5470 for details.

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our town | Gibson Centre

Arts community thrives at the Gibson Centre STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD PRITCHARD

T

he Gibson Centre for the Performing Arts has been inspiring artists of all ages throughout South Simcoe for more than a decade.

Everything that was envisioned for the heritage building when it opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2007 after undergoing a lengthy renovation project remains true to this day, according to executive director Jennifer Fortin.

“The building truly inspires everyone who walks through its doors,” she said. “It’s the 16-foot tall ceilings, the hardwood floors and exposed wood beams, the brick walls and all of the beautiful sunlight that cascades through the large windows. My staff and I are inspired each and every day.”

The centre remains the go-to place for all things arts and culture, whether you’re a music fan looking to catch a show at the Honda performance hall, a local painter eager to show off your works in an exhibit, or a youth set on honing your performance skills in the theatre school.

30 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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One all inclusive monthly rate Includes: • Three meals a day snacks • Housekeeping • Laundry

“The building truly inspires everyone who walks through its doors” The historic building was originally constructed in 1889 by the Mercer Manufacturing Company to house its farm implement factory, and it changed hands in the early 1960s when it was purchased by the Gibson family.

The idea of using the building as an arts centre didn't come about until the summer of 2000 after a group of local leaders presented the idea to the family.

Fortin said the non-profit corporation that now manages the centre continually engages with the community to meet its needs.

Recently, the theatre school’s offerings were expanded with more programs like music lessons and visual arts.

“It’s been a fantastic 10 years and we are growing,” she said. “The community awareness is growing exponentially.”

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ANGUS

Mill Street

DINING ROUTINE? Check out the ‘what to taste’ section in the most talked about coffee table book in Simcoe County - Grey Bruce Region coming early 2018!

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Rob

REAL ESTATE Services

McDonough Sales Representative BROKER

416-294-3157 905-936-3500

For All Your Real Estate Needs call Paula today

rob@robmcdonough.ca www.robmcdonough.ca Independently Owned/Operated

705-435-4336

www.paulacarney.com 1.877.435.4336 ALLISTON

CHAY REALTY BROKERAGE

Let My Experience work for You

Lorne Downey Broker

Cell:

705.440.6750

Office:

HELEN MABEE Broker

877.435.4336

email: LorneDowney@ronanrealty.com

View my listings at

K. Melanie Martyn

Cell: 416-989-4216 Office: 905-936-4216

Commercial, Investment, Industrial, Farms & Business Buy, Sell or Lease.

PETER NAISBITT Broker

Broker of Record

DIRECT: 705-725-6439

PROVIDING KNOWLEDGEABLE SERVICE FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS FOR 35 YEARS! www.movingonrealestate.ca 24 hr page: 1-800-357-4193

CHANTAL VARCOE

Clareece Potts Branch Manager/Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Cell: (705) 440-9167 Bus: (705) 435-4488

• Local Agent • Community Knowledge • Professional Service

CALL ME AND WE CAN HELP YOU GET MOVING

905-936-3500

LorneDowney.com

Harrison Martyn Sales Representative DIRECT: 647-973-6439

452 Victoria St. E., Alliston www.clareece.com cpotts@sutton.com

Independently Owned/Operated

Direct: 705-727-8978

Sutton Group Incentive Realty Inc.

1-877-435-4336 • ALLISTON

BROKERAGE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

www.chantalvarcoe.com

WORKING FOR YOU, IS WHAT I DO!

Ken Pratt Sales Representative

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated

1-877-435-4336 www.teammacmurchy.com 367 Victoria St. East Alliston

(705) 796-6753

Chay Realty Inc. Brokerage

Jamie Bowman

Sales Representative

MAGGIE MACMURCHY

MARILYN MACMURCHY

705-440-9696 Direct • 705-435-5556 Office

Dir (705) 440-6314

Dir (705) 435-4336

www.jamiebowman.ca

Sales Representative

34 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Sales Representative

Winter 2017

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Celebrate Our Community - 2017 Photo Contest We asked readers to share their best photos of Alliston for our Photo Contest.

The public voted, and three winners received prizes.

Check out some of the amazing entries.

HUNGRY? Join us at BP Alliston

Over 100 items on our menu.

We’ve got what you crave!

Sarah Flood

BOSTON PIZZA ALLISTON 27 Young St., Alliston, ON 705-434-1987 bostonpizza.com

Linda Broad

to get updates on our Live Entertainment

GATHER AROUND Boston Pizza and the Boston Pizza roundel are registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalties Limited Partnership, used under license. We’ll Make You A Fan is a trademark of Boston Pizza International Inc. ©Boston Pizza International Inc. 2015.

Dorothy Kolba

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 35

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KIDS’ Corner GYMNASTICS Tumbling & Trampoline

• Recreational programs for all ages, boys and girls • Competitive programs in Women’s artistic, trampoline & tumbling • Camps • Birthday parties • Tumbling/acro enhancement for cheerleaders and dancers

REGISTER ONLINE www.allistongymnastics.com or call: (705) 435-5294 email: allistongymnastics@bellnet.ca 4941 Dean Drive (behind the Ernie Dean dealership)

Need to keep the children busy for March break and summer?

Look for the Spring Registration section in your Herald coming out early 2018!

• Classes for Boys and Girls Ages 22 month to Adult • Qualified Teachers • Local Recital • Large Recreational Program

• Competitive Program • Exam Classes • The Dance Ability Movement Classes Adult Ballroom,Tap and Ballet Classes

WWW.THEDANCEWORKSHOP.CA • Contact us at 905-729-7215 info@thedanceworkshop.ca

PROVIDING BALL HOCKEY TO NEW TECUMSETH SINCE 1997 2017

• Spring/Summer and Winter leagues available • Minor, Women and Men’s leagues • Boys and girls welcome • All games played is Beeton, Tottenham, or Alliston.

For general information and to register visit our web site at

www.ntbhl.ca

705-435-5502 705-435-5502 36 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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Frank Gray** Manager/Owner

Allan Riddell*

Louisa Lampe**

John McCague*

Travis DeMaria*

Amanda Mortimer*

Shelly Sheriffs*

Phil Baldwin*

Nicole Jowett*

Jenny Taylor*

Laurie Mortimer**

Kat McCague*

Simone Lehnhardt*

Wendy Small*

Jack McCague*

Peter McCague**

Wanda Rose*

Jim Bartley*

Barb DeMaria*

Kelly McCague*

Brent Bailey**

Richard Saunders*

Jane Fumerton*

Marsha Harrison-Mateer**

Patti Parsons*

Mandy Dedora*

Marcello Iafrate*

Karey Salem*

Alex Monge*

Karen Morton*

Bill Scott*

Corrado Rosati*

Nancy Carlucci*

Cassandra Sipos*

Amanda Heidman*

Rosemarie James*

Heidi Crowther*

Jaime Karsch*

Karen Smith*

Kristin French*

*Sales Representative **Broker

Helping YOU and Our Community TOO

RCR Realty Brokerage,

Proud sponsors of:

GOOD SHEPHERD FOOD BANK

Independently Owned & Operated

7 Victoria Street W., Alliston

705.435-3000 | 866.772.5368

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Photo by Jeremy Kohm

feature | Profile

38 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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The celebrity designer and HGTV star shares her experience designing and building her planet-friendly home in Creemore

BY DAWN RITCHIE

C

Sarah Richardson Goes Off the Grid

reemore is a bucolic community with picture-postcard vistas and an artsy, farm-to-fork sensibility. This little piece of rural heaven is also the location where designer and HGTV star Sarah Richardson chose to build her 5,000-square-foot, off-thegrid dream home.

Operating as her own general contractor, along with husband Alexander Younger, Richardson faced the biggest design challenge of her celebrated career: Ensuring that their new home would tick all the boxes for their happy family of four while remaining sustainable in today’s energy-challenged world was a tall order. But Richardson got the job done and chronicled the journey in her newest HGTV hit, Sarah Off the Grid.

Now that the series is complete, Richardson squeezed a little time into her packed schedule to share her creative inspirations, amusing anecdotes and a few of the bumps along the road.

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feature | Profile

Photo by Jeremy Kohm

"We have 100 acres and have no current plans for livestock. But we are fully off the grid"

Photo by Stacey Brandford

The entire main floor is an open space, so designer Sarah Richardson chose a neutral colour palett she could live with for a long time. Fabrics used throughout the house are from the newest collection she designed for Kravet. “I’m known for creating spaces with a certain level of comfort,” she says.

40 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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How did you wind up choosing Creemore as your location?

I was the designer for a house that was being built in the area and that is how we originally discovered it. We bought the property and then the network asked me to do another TV series.

We’d been working on drawings for over four years — designing it, thinking about where to site the buildings and what we were going to do. It was perfect for everybody. This is it, this is forever and we are never moving.

What plans do you have for the land?

We have 100 acres and have no current plans for livestock. But we are fully off the grid, which is incredible and satisfying because my husband, Alex [Younger], worked hard to make that dream come true. For now, we are going to focus on enjoying the landscape and the area and all the natural resources.

Were you worried at all about maintaining your country views with developers seizing so much farmland these days?

It was a big concern for us. We look out at the Niagara Escarpment. Choosing to settle in an area that has conservancies and protocols in place was very important for us. It’s part of the reason we waited before building, to ensure that we weren’t looking out at a western view full of wind turbines.

Who was your architect?

John Robinson. He has a company called Robinson Residential and he’s out in Regina.

They’re a plan company, so they offer readyto-go house plans, but they also do full custom residential. This is the third collaboration with John and my team. He’s amazing. He listens, he’s thoughtful and he’s dedicated to getting it right. We really worked hand in hand together as a team, which is something I would recommend to anybody. The first step, though, is to know how you want to live.

What elements did you know you had to have inside your home?

We knew we wanted the house to be heated by wood stoves. So, there are three wood stoves and two fireplaces that act as a major engine for heat to help us reduce our consumption of propane.

The fireplaces are made by Renaissance and they’re fantastic. I can’t say enough good things about them — they light fast and they draw well. You’ve got the glass doors that drop down so you don’t lose heat when it’s not in use. And then you can leave the door open in the summer months so that you have good airflow.

HUNGRY? Join us at BP Alliston

Over 100 items on our menu. We’ve got what you crave!

Here is the team that can help you with all your insurance needs!

A ALLISTON Alliston, ON 1987

BOSTON PIZZA ALLISTON 27 Young St., Alliston, ON 705-434-1987 bostonpizza.com

to get updates on our Live Entertainment

We are: (FR L-R)) Gwen Robinson, Karen Grehan, Sandra Phekoo, Janet Pendleton, Heather Todimah, (BR L-R) Gary Laakso, Cindy Conn, Lindsey Sheardown, Dayna Simhoni, Pieter Kiezebrink

705-435-6294 or 1-877-870-1888

Gather Round Boston Pizza and the Boston Pizza roundel are registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalties Limited Partnership, used under license. We’ll Make You A Fan is a trademark of Boston Pizza International Inc. ©Boston Pizza International Inc. 2015.

Home • Auto • Life • investments CritiCAL iLLness • Business • fArm • trAveL

Stand out this winter in Canadian-Made boots and apparel!

Alliston | 85 Victoria St W | (705) 435-6481

Innisfil | HWY 400 at Innisfil Beach Road | (705) 431-2500

WWW.HERBERTSBOOTS.COM GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 41

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feature | Profile

Richardson and her husband, Alexander Younger, had 60 solar panels installed to power their home. It's enough to run five fridges, multiple dishwashers plus a washer and dryer. Lower left: A sampling of Richardson's newest fabric designs.

What’s your favourite design feature?

I think I’d have to say it’s the belvedere. It’s such a special spot and it has wow factor. But it’s not there for show; it’s there for enjoyment.

We go there if there’s a storm coming in. It’s such a nice place to escape to and have a quiet coffee in the morning or listen to the frogs chirping at night.

What was the impetus behind creating the belvedere?

We always wanted the house to look as if it had always been there, belonged there and would stand the test of time. There’s a great book called A Field Guide to American Houses [by Virginia Savage McAlester] — it’s like the bible of American architecture, so Alex 42 | GoodLife South Simcoe

Photo by Stacey Brandford

What was your greatest challenge in the build?

The biggest aspect was adding the general contractor responsibilities. It meant that all of those elements were pressing and demanding every day, and the design decisions often got bumped to a little later. When, in a normal scenario, I might be thinking about the fabrics and the style of the furnishings, the kitchen and the cabinetry, instead we were working on the roof, the siding, the insulation, the drywall, the flooring, the plumbing, the electrical — and it just meant those things got shunted a little further down the line. But in the end, I don’t think it suffered. It just was a bit of a juggling act.

We really have had the worst of the worst luck with grass because of all the rain. In total, there’ve been four hydroseedings. Nobody wants to watch thousands of dollars get washed away. There are expenses that happen when you’re building a house, but you don’t expect it to all end up at the bottom of the valley. The bottom of the valley is very green.

The belvedere is Richardson’s favourite design feature in the house. “It’s such a nice place to excape to and have a quiet coffee in the morning or listen to the frogs chirping at night,” she says.

and I spent a lot of time reviewing. When we sat down with John, what kept coming out was we wanted the house to be built like a barn, like a rectangle, that would be easy to erect and easy to heat. We didn’t want a whole bunch of wings, but we wanted to have character and personality, and the belvedere was a design flourish that came up a few times. We didn’t want it to be just decorative, we wanted it to be functional, so John designed it to be a great hangout space. I’m sort of known for creating spaces that offer a certain level of comfort. It’s not just beauty and hard edges alone: it’s spaces that really draw you in that you can enjoy. That’s always front and centre on my design agenda.

How did you choose your fabrics?

This project gave me the opportunity to use my newest collection that I designed for Kravet. So, a lot of the fabrics that you see throughout the house — on the window coverings, as upholstery, everything actually — I designed. So that’s kind of a proud moment.

How did you choose the colour palette?

When you think about forever and about investing in a home, you have to think, “What have I always loved for the last 20 years and what will I still love for the next 20 and

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beyond?” The entire main floor is an open space, so a soft neutral palette. We wanted each room to feel sort of signature to where it was located and what it looked out to.

Our daughter Robin loves to sit on the window bench and draw. She’s always thinking about creative ideas, so that became the idea of blue-sky thinking, and she wanted blue, whereas her sister’s room looks out to the forest and the trees, and she embraced the green.

In our bedroom, we wanted to feel like we were waking up in a cloud, so it’s really soft.

The bunk room has a sunny feeling — it’s bright and cheery and happy, and all kids have fun in a bunkroom. The guest room was to have a feeling of luxury and warmth that would make people feel cozy and welcome.

You’ve got 5,000 square feet — that’s a big house. A lot to clean?

We have a robot vacuum. We like to entertain and it really works for that. It’s a big house, but we can run everything with our solar system — we run five fridges, including bar fridges, we have multiple dishwashers, washer and dryer. If you design a system right, you can live as though you’re sacrificing nothing.

How many panels did you put in?

Sixty. We worked with Sentinel Solar. It’s the third or fourth project that Alex has done with them. He built an off-grid cottage in 1998, so he has 20 years of experience under his belt in terms of how to power and live off the grid. This was our most ambitious by far.

He was the driving force behind the off-grid aspect from beginning to end. I was just the beneficiary.

Creemore is such a quaint town with boutiques and cafés. Everybody’s moving up from the city now. What do you wish Creemore had more of, or what does it need?

Creemore has everything going for it! What it needs is more people using all of the great businesses that are there. If you love everything about your small town, you have to shop there. You want the businesses to thrive, and that’s part of my agenda and why we decided to share the fact that we’re in Creemore. We think it’s a wonderful part of the world and we wanted to shout it from the rooftops and tell people where we were and how much we loved it. And what do I think we need? I think we need a great hotel. And I’m available to design it.

Watch HGTV’s Sarah Off the Grid for the story of this design-and-build in Creemore.

Company’s coming... time to get ready

FAMILY OWNED FOR 34 YEARS!

www.briscofurniture.com

1 VICTORIA STREET W., DOWNTOWN ALLISTON 705-435-9777 • KenBrisco@bellnet.ca Store Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-6pm; Fri 9-8pm; Sat 9-5pm; Sun 12-4pm

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More Than Just Fireplaces

www.FIREPLACESTOP.com GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 43

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on the market

PRIVATE PARADISE ON 5+ ACRES 2461 Concession Rd. 7, Tottenham

BRIAR HILL BEAUTY! 7 Via Vistana

Beautiful spacious 5,000 sq. ft. home surrounded by nature.

Walk out to your own forest and stream. Fabulous open concept. Large bedrooms, games room, rec room, family room, office, heated 2 car garage, large wrap around deck, Indoor pool, lots of parking and MORE! Only 40 min to Toronto.

5 mins to Tottenham and Alliston. $1,158,000.

This is the one! Stop looking & start living the lifestyle in Briar Hill.

Check out the wonderful views off the private deck of this Botticelli semi. Offering a great open concept, this home is move in ready! Check out the main floor master bedroom with 4 pc ensuite & walk in closet, the eat in kitchen & the office/studio loft with built in bookcase & Murphy bed. The finished lower level offers a large family room with fireplace & w/o to the patio, a bright guest bedroom with a large closet, a 3 pc bath, the laundry & more. Offered at $529,900

GRANT BROOKS Sales Representative Direct

647-380-2538

Virtual tour at: www.GrantBrooks.ca

WENDY SMALL Sales Representative

OFFICE 705-435-3000 DIRECT 905-724-0717

RCR Realty, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

FABULOUS FAMILY HOME WITH TRIPLE CAR GARAGE!

77 Mcmaster Road, Orangeville

• Super sized updated kitchen with island and granite!

• Great room beside kitchen to enjoy family gatherings!

• Formal living/dining room with Cathedral ceilings/hardwood floors • Main floor laundry/mudroom • Master Suite with loft • Children’s Wing with their own bathroom • Custom basement currently set up a exercise/tanning salon • Large landscaped lot.

MLS# W3963321 Call Christine to view today!

Offered at $819,900

Upgraded bungalow in the inviting lifestyle development of Green Briar with convenient access to nature trail & community centre. Features include hardwood & laminate floors, updated kitchen, 6 appliances, some windows replaced, walkout to private deck.

MLS# N3957307. Offered at $369,000

CHRISTINE LOVATT

KELLY McCAGUE

DIRECT 705-717-8726 OFFICE 705-435-4506

705-435-3000 Direct 705-321-7295

Sales Representative

listwithlovatt.com

HOMELIFE INTEGRITY REALTY INC., BROKERAGE Independently Owned & Operated

44 | GoodLife South Simcoe

BUNGALOW LIVING! 57 Riverview Road, Alliston

Sales Representative

Office

kmmccague@royallepage.ca | www.kellymccague.com

RCR Realty, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Winter 2017

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PRIVATE PARADISE

P

rivate Paradise! Beautiful, Bright And Spacious. Tranquil Location Surrounded

By Nature. 5+ Acres With An Indoor Pool. Walk Out To Forest And Stream. Close To Town. Large Home For All Your Family And Friends. Circular Driveway W Lots Of Parking.

Open Concept Floor Plan. Large Kitchen, Bedrooms, Games Room, Rec Room, Family Room, Office, Attached Heated 2 Car Garage, Fireplace, Large Wrap Around Deck And More!

Q U I C K

FA C T S

Heating Type Forced Air Frontage 530.60 Listing ID N3957834 Room For Lots Of People, Vehicles, And Toys. Indoor Pool Can Be Turned Into Extra Living Space. Includes Fridge, Stove, Dishwasher; Microwave, Washer; Dryer, All Window Coverings & Light Fixtures. Natural Gas Heat.

This country property is currently listed with Grant Brooks, Sales Representative offered at $1,158,000.

Right At Home Realty Inc. Brokerage, Independently Owned & Operated. For a personal tour please call 647-380-2538.

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Prestige Real Estate Services Patti Parsons

Wendy Small

John McCague

Louisa Lampe

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Broker

705-435-3000 Office 866-772-5368 Toll Free

705-435-3000 Office 866-772-5368 Toll Free

705-435-3000 Office 866-772-5368 Toll Free

705-435-3000 Office 866-772-5368 Toll Free

www.royallepagercr.com

www.wendysmall.com

wwwjmccague.ca

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Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty Independently Owned & Operated

Homelife Integrity Realty Inc., Brokerage

Kristin French

Maggie MacMurchy

Ingrid McNeill

Sales Representative

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705-435-4336 Office 705-440-6314 Direct

705-435-4506 Tel 647-212-5798 Direct

416-707-7616 Cell 705-435-3000 Office

www.teammacmurchy.com

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www.kristinfrench.ca

Allan Riddell Sales Representative

705-435-3000 Office 705-321-4016 Direct www.royallepagercr.com

Ronan Realty, Brokerage Independently owned & operated Homelife Integrity Realty Inc., Brokerage

HOMELIFE INTEGRITY REALTY INC., BROKERAGE Independently Owned & Operated

Charles Cooper

Sue Tice

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Sales Representative

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705-440-7851 Direct 705-435-4506 Office

705-730-8582 Direct 888-435-4506 Toll Free

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Ken Pratt Sales Representative

705-435-4336 Office 705-796-6753 Direct 877-435-4336 Toll Free www.coldwellbanker.ca

Realty Inc, Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated

Christina Babulal

Kelly McCague

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Sales Representative

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705-890-0345 Direct 705-435-4506 Office

705-435-3000 Office 866-772-5368 Toll Free

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www.christinababulal.com

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www.kellymccague.com

www.sheriffscountryliving.com

www.wandarose.ca

2017-11-10 2:26 PM

food & drink

Whisky Is the New 40 Looking for a way to toast to the New Year and cap off Canada’s big 150th? Forget the beer and indulge in some Canadian Club. After all, the oh-so-national distillery recently launched its special 40-year-old whisky, just in time for the holidays.

With age has come flavour — resting in American oak barrels in Windsor, Ont., for 40 years has resulted in a whisky with an aroma of dark plum and vanilla with a backdrop of toasted toffee and sweet oak, and a taste that is slightly sweet, with hints of nutmeg, clove and fruit, and a touch of caramelized sugar.

What hasn’t changed is CC’s characteristic smoothness. Available in limited quantities at the LCBO, $249.95.

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food & drink | In the Kitchen

Gingerbread Snowflakes (Recipe shared by Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery.)

6¾ cups all-purpose flour 4½ tsp ground ginger 1½ tsp ground cinnamon 1½ tsp baking soda 1½ tsp salt ¾ tsp nutmeg 1½ cups solid vegetable shortening 1½ cups sugar 3 large eggs ¾ cup molasses

2½ cups confectioners’ sugar 2½ tbsp meringue powder ¼ tsp cream of tartar ¼ tsp vanilla ¼ cup cold water sugar for sprinkling

Royal Icing In a medium bowl, sift flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and nutmeg. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat shortening with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add sugar and beat to blend. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add molasses and beat on high speed until well blended. Turn mixer to low and gradually add flour mix until incorporated.

Divide dough in half and wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for a few hours. (Can be made one day ahead.)

Once dough is chilled, preheat oven to 350°F, remove plastic wrap and place dough on a flourdusted counter. Roll out to ¼-inch thickness. Cut out snowflake shapes.

Place cut-outs on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

Makes about 5 dozen large cookies.

ROYAL ICING

In a medium bowl, sift confectioners’ sugar, meringue powder and cream of tartar until thoroughly combined. Add vanilla and water, and beat on high speed until thick and bright white, 3 to 5 minutes.

Portion into a piping bag and decorate cooled cookies. Sprinkle with sugar and allow to dry completely for several hours, until icing is firm.

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IN THE KITCHEN

m r a F s y h p r ’ MuMarket and Bakery WITH

It’s the busiest time of year at this Alliston market and bakery, but for the family that runs the place, it’s definitely a labour of love

BY KATHERINE ELPHICK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLIE KISTEMAKER It’s crunch time at Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery in Alliston — buttercrunch, that is. “We only make our buttercrunch during the holiday season, and it’s to die for,” says Hollis English, who runs Murphy’s along with her four siblings while their parents work the 900acre farm.

The buttercrunch, from an old family recipe, is a buttery toffee confection, enrobed in a layer of chocolate and topped with freshly toasted pecans or almonds. “My family has been making and selling this for decades,” English says, “even before we opened up the bakery.”

But the annual treat is far from the only one on offer at Murphy’s.

“We’ve got tons of sweet stuff going on right now,” she says. Indeed, the scratch bakery is known for its Christmas Confection Collection, which includes its signature buttercrunch, truffles, chocolate-dipped fruit, fruitcake, shortbread, biscotti, gourmet marshmallows and a variety of holiday cookies.

The bakery also offers festive cookie boxes, gift bags and baskets, filled with such delights as Murphy’s holiday jam collection, as well as other goodies. “The smaller ones are perfect for teachers or the kids’ bus driver, while the larger ones make great corporate gifts,” says English, whose family has owned the farm since 1913.

The cookie boxes include Murphy’s signature shortbread done up three ways — plain, chocolate-dipped or cranberry crunch. “Cranberry crunch is my favourite, because they feature dried cranberries and broken pieces of our buttercrunch,” English says. Other holiday cookies include chewy ginger and gingerbread snowflakes.

Aside from cookies, Murphy’s also offers Christmas granola, sticky toffee pudding, crème brûlée, creamy rice pudding and freshly baked pies. “We are famous for our pies and tarts,” she says. “Pie choices change with the season, depending on what delicious fruits are being harvested, but blueberry, raspberry and apple pies are staples that can be found in the bakery all year long.” During the cooler months, pumpkin and mincemeat pies take centre stage. “At Christmastime, we make a gingerbread cream pie that is truly phenomenal.”

It’s truly a busy time, but English loves it. “It’s fun because it’s all hands on deck — even my parents will come in and help out in the kitchen,” she says, adding that the results are always deliciously unique.

“Our style of baking is both comforting and nostalgic.”

Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery 5141 Simcoe Road 10, Alliston (705) 435-2141 murphysfarmmarket.com Open May until December 23.

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food & drink | In the Kitchen

New to Murphy’s this season is the family barn,

which will be hosting childfriendly holiday events, including cookie decorating, wagon rides and a visit from Santa. Check murphysfarmmarket.com for details.

50 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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Chocolate Crinkle Cookies (Recipe shared by Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery.)

1¼ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup cocoa powder 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 1½ cups packed brown sugar 3 large eggs 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (optional) 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 /3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips ¼ cup unsalted butter ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup confectioners’ sugar

Preheat oven to 325°F. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In another large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, espresso powder and vanilla. Set aside.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butter. Microwave at 50 per cent power, stirring occasionally until melted, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Whisk chocolate mixture into brown sugar mixture until combined. Fold in flour mix until all of the dry ingredients are incorporated. Let dough sit for 10 minutes. (Dough will be very sticky and soft; chill in the refrigerator, if needed, for easier handling.)

Place granulated sugar and confectioners’ sugar in separate shallow bowls. Scoop dough (approximately 2 tbsp each) and roll into balls. Roll to coat first in the granulated sugar, then in the confectioners’ sugar.

Place onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake until cookies are puffed and cracked and the edges are firming up, about 12 minutes. Place on wire racks to cool before serving.

Makes about 2 dozen cookies.

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food & drink | In the Kitchen

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Cranberry Hazelnut Biscotti

(Recipe shared by Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery.)

2 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup hazelnuts, toasted, skins removed, finely chopped ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt ¾ cup sugar 2 eggs ¼ cup vegetable oil 2 tsp grated orange peel 1 tbsp orange juice 1½ tsp vanilla extract 2 /3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped 1 to 2 tsp all-purpose flour

FINISHING TOUCHES:

1 egg white 1 tbsp water sugar for sprinkling white chocolate, melted (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, sift 2 cups flour, hazelnuts, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and eggs. With an electric mixer, beat on medium speed, until mixture is thick and pale yellow, about 3 minutes. Add vegetable oil, orange peel, orange juice and vanilla. Continue beating for another minute or two until well mixed.

Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mix until well combined. Stir in cranberries.

Turn dough onto lightly floured counter.

Knead flour into dough, then split in half and shape into 2 logs, each about 8 by 3 inches.

In a small bowl, combine egg white and water. Brush overtop logs, then sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch. Let cool for 15 minutes.

Reduce oven temperature to 300°F. With a serrated knife, cut pieces diagonally into ½-inch slices. Arrange on parchment paperlined cookie sheet, cut side down. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, turn slices over and bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.

Cool completely.

If you want to make the biscotti a little more festive, dip or drizzle each cookie in white chocolate and decorate with sugar or sprinkles.

Delicious . Healthy . Simple.

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Makes about 2½ dozen cookies.

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food & drink | Recipes

CURRIED CARROT AND POTATO SOUP SHOOTERS

Local Start-Ups Entertaining season is here and that means being prepared, not only for your planned soirées, but also for unexpected drop-ins.

We’ve got you covered. These appetizers come together quickly, or can be made ahead of time, to get you out of the kitchen and into serious socializing. Best of all, they feature Ontario produce, so you can offer your guests the freshest flavours possible.

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Warming and delicious, this surprising starter is quick to prepare. Serve in espresso cups or tiny shooter glasses.

4 medium potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped 1 medium onion 1 cup peeled and chopped sweet potato or butternut squash 3 large cloves garlic, quartered 1 tbsp hot or mild curry powder 4 to 6 cups sodium-reduced chicken broth 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper Light sour cream In a large heavy saucepan, combine potatoes, carrots, onion, sweet potato, garlic and curry powder. Pour in enough broth to just cover vegetables; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes or until vegetables are very soft.

Purée vegetable mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot or cold, garnished with sour cream.

Makes about 20 shooters.

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MINI POTATO PANCAKES WITH SOUR CREAM AND SMOKED TROUT Best served right away, these little gems are quick and easy.

4 large potatoes, peeled 2 onions 2 eggs, beaten 1/4 cup all-purpose flour salt and pepper, to taste vegetable oil 1/2 cup sour cream 4 oz smoked Ontario trout, in small strips snipped fresh chives or small sprigs of dill (optional) In a food processor or by hand, shred potatoes and onions. Place in a clean tea towel and squeeze out excess moisture; transfer to a bowl.

Stir in eggs, flour, salt and pepper.

In a large heavy skillet over medium heat, heat a thin film of oil. Using about 1 tbsp of the mixture for each pancake, place round mounds in hot skillet, a few at a time, and press to flatten.

Cook until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes each side, turning once. Add more oil as needed for remaining pancakes. Drain well on paper towels.

To serve, top each pancake with a dollop of sour cream. Arrange strip of trout on top and garnish with a length of chive or dill sprig.

Makes 24 pancakes.

SAVOURY APPLE AND GOAT CHEESE LOG This simple make-ahead appetizer is a life-saver during the holiday season. Serve with crackers or crostini.

5 oz herbed Ontario goat cheese, softened 2 oz cream cheese, softened 1 apple, peeled and coarsely grated 2 green onions, finely chopped 1/2 tsp pepper 3/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped In a medium bowl, blend together all the ingredients except the pecans until combined. Place on a large sheet of waxed paper. Using paper to help, form into 1½-inch-diameter log. Refrigerate until firm.

Place nuts on a plate. Roll log in nuts to cover. Wrap log in waxed paper and refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with apple slices, if desired.

Makes 10 to 12 servings.

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food & drink | Recipes

CURRIED CREAM CHEESE AND VEGETABLE SPIRALS You can use any flavour tortillas for these easy make ahead appetizers, but whole wheat will add more fibre.

1 medium carrot, coarsely grated 1/2 sweet red pepper, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tsp curry powder 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1/3 cup chopped fresh coriander or parsley 1 tbsp lemon juice 1/2 tsp salt 8 oz light cream cheese, softened 4 large whole wheat tortillas

In a large skillet, cook carrot, red pepper, onion, garlic and curry powder in oil until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in coriander, lemon juice and salt and let cool slightly.

In a bowl, stir cream cheese with a wooden spoon until creamy. Stir in vegetable mixture. Spread each tortilla evenly with filling, then roll up tightly, pressing firmly to seal. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.

To serve, trim off ends of rolls; cut each roll into 8 to 10 slices on the diagonal.

Makes 32 to 40 spirals.

Printed with permission from Foodland Ontario.

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There’s nothing like a good wine to take any party up a notch. Here are two of our favourites that are sure to please your guests.

La Crema Sonoma Coast 2015 Pinot Noir: Aromas of red cherry, raspberry, pomegranate and sweet tobacco give way to tastes of red-, blue- and black berries, plum and cherry with an underpin of spice and toast. $29.95 Kendall Jackson 2016 Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay: Delightfully tropical with mango, papaya and pineapple with citrus notes, intertwined with aromas of vanilla and honey for depth and balance. A hint of oak and butter makes for a lovely, lingering finish. $19.99

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travel | Vacay

Island Hopping

in Tahiti Rise from your pillow and dive into crystal-clear blue water a few feet away while you wait for breakfast to arrive via canoe.Yes, you’re in for a pretty good day

BY DOUG WALLACE

W

hen practically anyone can find a beach to sit on somewhere for a week, privacy is the ultimate luxury. No one knows this better than visitors to French Polynesia, the gem of the South Pacific — distant, exotic, romantic and unspoiled — which sees as many tourists in one year as Hawaii does in one week.

The isolation is the attraction. After all, this is one of the last places on earth to be settled by humans. The weather comes a close second, with year-round temps averaging 27°C. The charming French flavour is point number three, from the baguettes tucked under everyone’s arms in the morning to the double-kissing and the simple-yet-perfect cuisine.

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travel | Vacay

It’s hard to beat Moorea’s tranquility.

Moorea’s over-water rooms are worth the splurge.

Moorea is famous for its two magnificent bays — Cook’s and Opunohu — with Secret Mountain sitting between them, long considered sacred, the bottom of it ringed with temples and shrines.

Huahine, a two-island grouping, is one of the most authenic communities in the whole region. It’s also a bit of an artist enclave with a slightly bohemian vibe.

A visit to French Polynesia reveals a tranquil, reserved haven that has been enchanting people since the European explorers started arriving in the early 1500s. Five chains of 118 islands cover a fairly wide swath in the southern Pacific Ocean, spread out over 2,000 kilometres, on about the same latitude as Lima, Peru. The islands are autonomous, yet administered by France as a “collective,” with those ties going back to the mid-1800s. Like Hawaii, the biggest island’s name has come to denote the whole region. The capital city of Papeete is your international jumping-off point via Air Tahiti Nui.

down — the maximum speed limit is 60 km/h — and your first taste of the over-water bungalow experience.

While they are more expensive, over-water rooms are worth the splurge, as well as larger and more lavish than they look from the outside. Their biggest benefit is the fact that you don’t really have to leave your room, because you can see everything from your deck: the lagoon, the ocean, the beach, the boats. You can even watch the fish swim under your cabin through the window in the floor — when you’re not snorkeling, that is. Just add room service and a good book.

Enjoy Island Hopping Unlike typical sunny locales, there aren’t a ton of all-inclusives in French Polynesia, nor is it the type of place you pick just one spot and stay there the whole time. You need to island hop, so your visit becomes less of a beach rest and more of an adventure.

Your first stop should be the tranquil island of Moorea, just a half-hour ferry ride north of Papeete. Close enough to the big island but still rather isolated, this is a small community where you’ll get your first lesson in slowing

Take In History and Culture Moorea is famous for its two magnificent bays — Cook’s and Opunohu — with Secret Mountain sitting between them, long considered sacred, the bottom of it ringed with temples and shrines. Also found throughout this and most regions of French Polynesia are maraes: stone monuments where the elders of the ancient tribes would come to talk religion, politics and business.

Twenty minutes by plane farther north sits Huahine, a two-island grouping, one

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of the most authentic communities in the region. Unspoiled and more reflective of true Polynesian life, with a history that predates both Hawaii and Fiji, this is the place to learn about the past while immersing yourself in the present. Huahine is a bit of an artist enclave, with a slightly bohemian vibe. It’s also great value: the top spot for finding alternative accommodations like family home-stays, hostels and smaller hotels.

A visit to the museum at Maitai Lapita Village uncovers the history of the Lapita people, the pre-Polynesian ancestors. Ancient pottery shards from 1500 BC, wooden and whalebone sculptures and tools, tinted engravings, 19thcentury photographs, reproductions of war clubs, fishing lures and jewellery all help illustrate early life here.

You will also learn that Polynesian culture in general is experiencing a renaissance of sorts, with people now embracing their history, getting back to their roots and reviving their culture — tattoos included. The hos–pitality industry champions this in a number of ways, with traditional cuisine and entertainment, and with coral nurseries established to encourage reef rejuvenation.

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Get More Social The next stop? Bora Bora, “the pearl of the Pacific.” With a larger lagoon comes more hotel chains with more over-water bungalows and more people. But that doesn’t take away from the experience; it just makes things a bit more social. Bora Bora is also the most exotically beautiful — shades of aqua too numerous for your eye to properly process, big Mount Otemanu looking down on you, seemingly taking everything in. Lagoon cruises will take you out to snorkel coral gardens, feed giant stingrays and swim with black point and lemon sharks, all before sitting down to a barbecued lunch on a private island set on picnic tables in the shallow water, while ukuleles play and palm trees sway.

As for your fellow adventurers, you’ll soon start seeing familiar faces in the airport lounges and get chatting with those who seem to be following you around. In general, this is a welltravelled bunch.

Naturally, the French love this place. And it’s not just those who have money; many middleclass French families flock here, happy for the easy kinship their passports and common language allows. Mix in the Japanese, Americans and Canadians and you’ve got a melting pot.

Peak season is from March to October, with May and June being the driest.

Avoid the rainy season, from November to January, when it can rain for three weeks straight.

In the end, is it worth the eight-hour flight from Los Angeles? A thousand times yes. You thought it was farther, didn’t you? So does everybody else.

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How to Get There The capital city of Papeete has the only international airport. Air Tahiti Nui (airtahitinui.com) flies there in eight hours from Los Angeles up to five times a week. All French Polynesia domestic flights are run by Air Tahiti (airtahiti. com), which flies to 46 islands in the five archipelagos, as well as to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands.

Debbie Hudson, CFP ® Vice President, Investment Advisor 18 Victoria St. E. Alliston 705-435-8874 debbie.hudson@td.com Start a conversation today.

TD Wealth Private Investment Advice is a division of TD Waterhouse Canada Inc., a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. – Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. ® The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

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Looking for something unique for that special someone on your holiday gift list? Look no further. We’ve rounded up a wide range of fabulous local finds. Happy shopping!

Owl Necklace

Alliston Paint & Decorating $24.99

Silver Metal Candle Holders Brisco Furniture, Alliston Starting at $79.99

Screen Printed Map Olde Stanton Store, Mansfield Hand-pulled screenprint of the world map on reclaimed wood includes a tiny glassine envelope of colourful straight pins to place where you’ve been (or want to go). $50

Perpetual Wood Calendar Brisco Furniture, Alliston $124

Santa Mug Set with option of Cookie platter Drysdale’s, Egbert Starting at $39.99 64 | GoodLife South Simcoe

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Tractor Lamp Alliston Paint & Decorating Giftcraft Life Well Styled Tractor Lamp $129.99

Fudge

Wine Rack

Olde Stanton Store, Mansfield Buy 1 pound, get 1/2 pound free! $17.98/lb

Brisco Furniture, Alliston

$129

Coffee & Accessories Alliston Feed Service Muskoka Roastery Coffee

Great Gifts are Edible Boston Pizza, Alliston Gift cards in any denomination

$16.49 Pour Over Coffee Mug $29.95

One-of-a-Kind and Unique Gifts Children’s Moccasins

Mud Pie Coffee Mug

Herberts Western Wear, Alliston

Alliston Feed Service $15.95

$20 to $60

South Simcoe Arts Council, Alliston Choose from more than 1,000 items from the visual arts, books, photography, music, jewelry, woodworking, textiles, pottery, cards and more!

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in the crowd | Hall of Fame

T

H A L L O F FA ME On October 24, The Herald and Metroland Media held their 15th annual Hall of Fame Celebration where five outstanding individuals were recognized for going above and beyond in their volunteer efforts to make their community a better place. The ceremony was held at The Gibson Centre where family, friends and the community honoured this year’s winners John Wayne McCarthy, Marv Chantler, Tracy Ross, Colleen Rideout and Sherry Cheetham.

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10 Mayor of Adjala Tosorontio Mary Small Brett; Fran Marrs; Bob Marrs, councillor, Essa; and Keith White

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Nancy Milligan; deputy mayor Donna Jebb; mayor Mary Small Brett; Margo Cooney

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Colin Thain and Jo-Anne Thain

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Luke Rideout and Alison Jacks

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Geraldine McCarthy; John Wayne McCarthy, Hall of Fame 2017 inductee; Greta Charman and Phyllis Walker

Kerry Worrod, Hall of Fame inductee 2013; Betty Worrod; and Colleen Rideout

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Councillor Richard Norcross; Sherry Cheetham; Tracy Ross, Hall of Fame 2017 inductee; and Colleen Rideout, Hall of Fame 2017 inductee

John Wayne McCarthy and Hart Holmstrom, Hall of Fame 2007 inductee

Sherry Cheetham, Hall of Fame 2017 inductee, and friends

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Larry Brown, Terry Lyn Brown and Richard White

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Tasha Rochefort, Alison Jacks and Tracy Ross

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Mitchel Rideout, Meagan Mesdag, Luke Rideout, Colleen Rideout and Linda Cot

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Marv Chantler, Hall of Fame 2017 inductee; and Hart Holmstrom

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Colleen Rideout and Hart Holmstrom

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Tracy Ross and Hart Holmstrom

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Marv Chantler with his friends and family

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2017 Hall of Fame inductees, bottom left: Marv Chantler; bottom right: John McCarthy; middle: Tracy Ross; top left: Sherry Cheetham; top right: Colleen Rideout

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The Evergreen Store Canada’s Largest Christmas Store Complete source for Home decor, seasonal decorating and gifts.

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BEGINNING NOVEMBER 21 Santa Claus welcoming visitors in his home, magician, face painters, horse drawn wagon rides, bon fire and delicious country fare.

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