{engage} SUMMER 2019
top-notch Attractions, Art, entertainment, FOOD, DRINK, history and Outdoor Adventures. It is Just down the Road AND around the bend in Beautiful Southwestern Ontario.
Live it for a day... Live it for a lifetime!
Your FREE Guide to Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Brantford, Oxford, NEW CREDIT, six nations of the grand river + wet & wild summer fun / INspiring Local Biz / Experiential STAY-CATION a gogo / Living History & Outdoors must-dos + A mag Chock-a-block full of local lovelies!
Study in your own Backyard. apply now, Start SeptemBer!
Small class sizes • State-of-the-art facilities • Easy access to faculty and support Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership. Diploma. Agri-Business Management. Graduate Certificate. Developmental Services Worker. Diploma (1 year accelerated) Starts every 6 weeks.
Early Childhood Education. Diploma (1 year accelerated) Starts every 6 weeks. Esthetics. Certificate. Food Service Worker. Certificate. Starts every 6 weeks. Health Care Office Assistant. Certificate. Starts every 6 weeks.
Office Administration – Executive. Diploma (New). Personal Support Worker. Certificate. Professional Office Essentials. Certificate. Social Service Worker Diploma (Fast track also available). Welding Techniques. Certificate.
Tours available all summer! Stop by to see the campus, meet our student services team, get help applying, and learn the advantages (and cost savings) to studying locally.
634 ireland road, Simcoe, on n3y 4k8 | 519-426-8260 simcoe@fanshawec.ca | fanshawec.ca/simcoe @fanshawesimcoe 2 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Simcoe
celebrating
over
2O years in business
The way a flooring store should be FIND YOUR STYLE. AND COMFORT LEVEL. WE MAKE IT EASY.
456 Queensway West, Simcoe 519-426-2619
nufloors.ca/simcoe
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 3
Prominent Homes is family owned and oPerated. eacH of our Projects is built on tHe foundation of trust and our customers know tHat tHeir new Home, cottage or office is built witH quality and care.
This award winning Townhouse Condo Development is located in Waterford’s prestigious Yin Subdivision. Our 1475 sq ft bungalow designs offer a spacious layout while enjoying the perks of condo living with the luxuries found in a single-family home.
Over the next three years we will be building 37 estate homes on Newport Lane in Somerset Subdivision, one of the most desired areas of Port Dover. Many of these lots back on to the wooded area of the Black Creek Conservation and other lots have walk-out options with seasonal creek views.
Development has continued in this Simcoe subdivision behind Holy Trinity High School. Prominent has purchased 10 of the most opportune lots to build on starting in spring 2019. Contact us today to design and build your custom home.
prominenthomesont.com 519-426-9186 4 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
What’s inside
COVER PHOTO by Marc Douglas Photography marcdouglas.ca CONTENTS PHOTO BY Nancy Domsic Kings - olliandella.com
Live Small Town / SUMMER 2019
18
20
42
48
Let’s Get Social There is never a shortage of praise for Live Small Town Magazine with so many local loving folks reaching out via social media. Here are just a few of our Faves!
Small Town Changemakers Meet some of the people, places and businesses making a difference in your community and learn how you can help.
Wet & Wild Make the most of the summer and keep cool by enjoying the shore of the beautiful Grand River and the vast coast of picturesque Lake Erie.
Small Town Sunday Jay Perry’s Ultimate Insider’s Guide that highlights what to eat, buy, explore and indulge in around Ontario Southwest.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 5
What’s inside
10
66
Team Magic Every dream begins with a plan, and our current magazine would like to introduce you to the team of talented folks who helped to make Live Small Town possible.
Arts & Culture From world-class artists and live theatre to intimate concerts, get introduced to local talent and discover the best places to soak up and enjoy the culture.
22
76
Food for Thought Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth, a rich palette, or simply enjoy a night out on the town or quiet afternoon to relax, we’ve got the place for you.
Nature Calls When the weather is nice and your agenda is open, there’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors and we want to get you pointed in the right direction.
56
82
Deep Roots We help bring local history back to life, and tell you where to look for heritage, knowledge and wonderment in your community. Let’s get out and explore!
Our Town Yet again, another inspired small-town fella tells an up-close and personal story of how he followed his dreams and accomplished goals through the love and support of small-town
6 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Nancy Domsic Kings - olliandella.com
Live Small Town / SUMMER 2019
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 7
Summer VOL. 3 NO. 2 PhotographERS
Looking for your
dream home?
Blackbird Photography, Tara Carpenter, Nancy Domsic Kings, Marc Douglas, Denise Grant, Katie Hotchkiss, Martin Love, Sandy Marincic, Jay Perry, Seferian Design Group, Spicy Jan, Erika Strada, Francine Tausney, Nicole VanQuaethem, Megan Vincent Writers
Danielle Arva, Tara Carpenter, Alan Dunlop, Donna Ferrawey, Nancy Howden-Cowell, Kate Innes, Spicy Jan, Kerri Kelly-Parkinson, Kerstein Mallon, Sandy Marincic, Adrianna Michell, Emmalee Nother, Jay Perry, Tara Shannon, Kate Sharrow, Erika Strada, Jules Torti, Ingrid vanReenen, Nicole VanQuaethem, Jennifer Villamere, Amy Walsh-Harris, Tim Zwart PROOFREADER
Kari Raymer Bishop
SOCIAL MEDIA
Nancy Howden-Cowell, Donna Ferrawey, Sarah Gurney, Patricia Howden, Kerstein Mallon, Kerri Kelly-Parkinson, Tara Shannon, Kate Sharrow, Erika Strada Small town Gal/Owner/ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Kerri Kelly-Parkinson kerri@livesmalltownmag.ca SALES TEAM
Sarah Gurney sarah@livesmalltownmag.ca Tara Shannon tara@livesmalltownmag.ca
Let us help!
Small town Gal/Owner/ Art Director/Editor/ PUBLISHER
Kate Sharrow kate@livesmalltownmag.ca
Jordan Labron Sales Representative Dir. 226-388-1324 jlabron@peakalliance.ca
36 GRanD RiveR St n 519-442-3100 8 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
peakrealestate.com
Live Small Town Magazine is printed four times a year and distributed throughout Southern Ontario via various tourist associations, related services, retail locations and home distribution. Copyright 2019 Live Small Town Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Opinions and comments reflect those of the writers and are not necessarily those of the editorial and staff. At the time of publication, we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible. Please feel free to contact us with any concerns or corrections you may have.
The concussion AdvoCATe
Offering state Of the art technOlOgy and treatment sOlutiOns in Brant cOunty’s largest spOrts medicine and cOncussiOn clinic. fOcused On Bringing tOgether an elite team Of prOfessiOnals whO are ready tO serve all yOur healthcare needs! We offer 24-48 hour care for all athletes Who are hurt in a game! Chiropractic Physiotherapy Massage Therapy Naturopathic Medicine osteopath Counselling
orthotics Advanced Footcare Family Medicine extremity Bracing Nutritional Supplements
Laser Therapy Acupuncture Athletic Therapy Concussion testing Neurotracker Software
Injection Clinic Rehab Gym facility vision Therapy vestibular Therapy
it is VerY important to get into the clinic as soon as possible after a concussion. Our start to finish Concussion management team will get your athlete back to sport and school as soon and as safely as possible! Despite prevention strategies, head injuries will still occur. Irregardless of when the injury occurred, and how long you have been dealing with the injury, we can help! Our clinic specializes in all types of Concussion and Post Concussion Care. We focus on the team approach to healthcare and determine precisely where we need to focus with each and every patient that enters the clinic. If you have ANY questions or concerns about your athlete, please call us as soon as possible, we are here to help! We offer COMPLIMENTARY consultations with all healthcare providers!
Chiropractic 519-442-2237 Physiotherapy 519-302-2000 Concussion and TBI Clinic 519-442-2237 Naturopathic Medicine 519-442-2237 Counselling and Psychotherapy 519-442-2237 1084 Rest Acres Rd. Units 7 & 8, Paris cobblestonemedicineandrehab.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 9
Team Magic
Authentic people, engaging stories and a sense of community fellowship are what make small towns what they are, so it should come as no surprise that these are the pillars upon which the Live Small Town concept are built. We’ve started our own “town” within these very pages, and we’d love to introduce ourselves and invite you inside! 10 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Our co-op student is hard at work tasting his way through Haldimand
KERRI KELLY-PARKINSON
livesmalltownmag.ca I am absolutely thrilled that summer is here! I run all over with this magazine, meeting amazing people and working with the best team I could ever ask for BUT I love fun in the sun too. Kids are home, pool is open and I get to put the “Uber” sign on my car and become taxi Mom on top of Advertising Exec/Owner/Writer/ and everything and anything that needs to be done to create the best magazine possible! Without all of our readers and advertising partners, it wouldn’t be possible, so cheers to all of you and thank you for helping us live our dream! Please have a safe, and happy summer!
NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL
Cavin McCarthy
Since February of this year, I have been working as a co-op student for Live Small Town Magazine and it has been tough! Oh I know it sounds like a glamourous gig but it is not easy eating tons of delicious food every day and getting showered with compliments when I am out delivering mags to all the shops... Who am I kidding; it was a blast! Thank you for making me feel so welcome!
J.C. VILLAMERE
villamere.com Besides shining a light on folks doing pretty amazing, change-the-world stuff in this mag, I also write for ET Canada, Villamere: The Lowbrow Magazine of High-End CanLit and I’ve just released a book: Is Canada Even Real? How a Nation Built on Hobos, Beavers, Weirdos, and Hip-Hop Convinced the World to Beliebe.
KATE SHARROW
livesmalltownmag.ca I am not sure what compels me to complicate a life that could consist of gin and tonic, toe nail painting, and afternoon naps. Like most business women/mums, my days are pretty crazy. Periodically I press reset but only after I melt down or spend a lot of money on lipstick. Recently I tried to add buying a fourth, run-down house to my list but only after I had a neighbour drop 40 yards of dirt on my lawn. It was free, and I had just finalized a magazine. I keep promising myself to slow down, breathe deeply and watch the flowers grow but honestly, I don’t know how to do that with so much to do?
I live in a beautiful small village on the shores of Lake Erie and am surrounded by family, friends, art, local beauty, goodness and of my two sweet dogs Bella and Mia. I will explore all the hidden gems that our lovely wee towns offer and share those experiences with you on social media and in the pages of Live Small Town Magazine.
NANCY DOMSIC KINGS
olliandella.com I was born with a wild imagination. My mother was naturally creative, so I grew up painting, planting, sewing, baking and creating. The second I picked up my first camera I became obsessed with capturing the small wonders around me. To date, my permanent creative status allows me to be an art director by trade, photographer by fate and remain imaginative by nature. I spend most days in the middle of a creative mess or treading lightly while adventuring with my husband, two funny kids and our little Westie pup at our side.
Emmalee Nother
I’m a local lady with a love for all things country, hockey and small town. Born and raised in beautiful Haldimand County, my passion for where I grew up runs deep. My adventures have taken me from coast to coast in the entertainment biz but I always return home to my rescue dog, Duke, and my cats on the farm.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 11
Spicy Jan
A family owned business that offers
A Complete pACkAge
tastyroadtrips.com Growing up in Toronto the youngest of four, we were expected to sit at the table and finish up our plate. We ate what we were given or at least we were creative about how to navigate a clean plate. Food wasn’t an element of community in my younger years. In my 20’s, through falling in love, I experienced the European culture in a delicious new way which would become my new norm. Chirozo, garlic, onion, sardines, basement bbq’s, pimento sauce, pork, bacalhau; I experienced food firsthand through family, celebrations and cooking at home. This was the beginning of my 30-year journey of exploring cooking, food, business, travel and community. As owner operator of Tasty Road Trips Food Tours, I bring the food and beverage tour experience to small towns with big tastes. Sandy Marincic
Serving Brantford and surrounding area
For over 35 years, Antler Services Inc. has been providing exceptional service and knowledgeable insight to home owners, businesses and larger industries. Starting as a small pest control business run by brothers Syd and Dan Antler, it wasn’t long before they expanded into other areas, such as landscaping, lawn maintenance, and small engine repairs. Our customers and quality workmanship has remained our main focus over the years, and our entire team works tirelessly to ensure complete satisfaction. No matter what your needs, our ongoing mission is to provide the best service possible. LANDSCAPING • LAWN CARE • LAWN CUTTING • SNOW REMOVAL • ALL SEASON MAINTENANCE • SMALL ENGINE SALES & REPAIRS • PEST CONTROL • GARDEN CENTRE
40 Roy Blvd, Brantford
antlerservices.com
sandy@ubenefit.ca I’m an avid motorcyclist, world traveller, cook, artist, woodworker and thinker, and I am slowly learning that all opinions needn’t be shared. The way we humans mesh with one another (or not), and how we mess with nature (or not) is a fascinating jigsaw puzzle. I am on the floor looking the missing pieces – they must be somewhere, no? I also own Benefact Benefit Consultants, where I encourage my employer/employee clients to work as a team; when people enjoy shared goals and work towards them together, success follows. All of the above is based on the ability to care. Erika Strada
Writing and photography has been a hobby that I have enjoyed for years. It is a tool I use to understand the past, connect with my community and explore my creative curiosities. Unlike my name sake, I do not live a star studded life, riding around on a hog in tight pants as a crime fighting, super cop. I am a small town gal, living a simple life and stopping often to smell the flowers.
2019 Summer Special
Join Now as a Golfing Member and Pay No Initiation Fee!
come and be part of the 4th Oldest Golf club in North america! Great Course! Spectacular Views! Exquisite Food! Social Memberships available
It’s Where You Really Belong...
60 Ava Road, Brantford, Ontario 519-752-3731 matt@brantfordgolf-cc.com
brantfordgolfandcountryclub.com
Martin Love
Stone for the heart of your home
Brantford Granite & Quartz is a local family-owned and operated business in lovely Paris, Ontario which carries an impressive array of natural stone in our 5,000 sq ft showroom. We are committed to providing products and services that are competitively priced and of superior quality. Let our experienced staff guide you through designing your dream. From start to finish, we take pride in ensuring that your final product is perfectly crafted and will last the test of time and add value to not only your home but also your life! 535 Paris Rd, Paris 519-442-1400
bgq.ca
We would like to thank all of our advertising partners who have made Live Small Town Magazine possible! If you would like to join this amazing team, please contact Kerri Kelly-Parkinson at kerri@livesmalltownmag.ca
14 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
martinlovephotography.ca It’s said that a body at rest will remain at rest, and a body in motion will remain in motion. Who am I to argue with Isaac Newton? As a self confessed “people watcher”, my entry into photography began at eight years of age using a “Secret Sam” spy camera. Since then my skills have evolved, as has my passion. For the past four decades I’ve also worked diligently to maintain a high level of physical fitness, combined with a healthy diet. I find that it has given me the capacity to work the most demanding of photo and video shoots with energy to spare. Sarah Gurney
I was born and raised big city, but am now a selfmade small townee. I live for weekends wandering shops, parks, and pretty places with my funny husband and son duo. When I have a spare moment not chasing my two-year-old, you can find me picking at my guitar, baking something yummy, or tackling a messy home reno project around the house! I am also one of the newest teammates at Live Small Town Magazine! If you are in the Brantford/Paris area and have an interest in becoming one of our beloved and valued advertising partners, please give me a call at 226-220-7340 or email me at sarah@ livesmalltownmag.ca Donna Ferrawey
I’m an excursionist! Since I was young, I loved to explore all of the areas around me. My husband Jim and I go for “Drive Abouts.” That means jumping in the car, set to wander aimlessly. We find some of the most interesting places when we don’t know our destination, sometimes getting lost. Small towns, big towns, country lanes, and everything in between is where we wander. It’s fun finding new and interesting places to share with you. At home on the shore of Lake Erie, I love spending time with my husband, my armload of kids, grandchildren, my cat Murri, and my BFFs.
Tara Shannon
I moved from Burlington to small-town life several years ago. It was a bit of an adjustment and when I say small town, I actually mean rural Hagersville. My closest neighbours are cows and buffalo. No longer could I pop out my front door and find all of the latest conveniences at my finger tips. But, you know what!? I love it now. There are so many wonderful businesses out here offering everything I could want. I’m a cook by trade and I love to write too, and out here where the buffalo do in fact roam, I have inspiration galore! From rolling farm landscapes, to Lake Erie, the Grand River, and hiking trails. The fresh produce, cheese, honey, grass fed and organic meats. Not to mention the locally produced wine, beer, and cider. Everything within minutes of my home. I am in heaven. As one of the newest sales gals to join the Live Small Town Magazine crew, I look forward to meeting you! If you are in Haldimand County and want to become one of our advertising partners, please send me an email at tara@livesmalltownmag.ca Jules Torti
Jules Torti is the author of Free to a Good Home: With Room For Improvement (Caitlin Press). She is the editorin-chief of Harrowsmith magazine and writes about the best things in life (birds, burgers, beaches, beer: in no particular order) for Cottage Life, FASHION, realtor.ca’s Living Room and Grand magazine. Torti has been published in The Vancouver Sun, The Globe and Mail, Massage Therapy Canada and Coast Mountain Culture magazine. In other lives she has made breakfast for 26 chimpanzees in the Congo and illustrated colouring books for the Jane Goodall Institute and the Dian Fossey Foundation. Her next book is under construction and will retrace Torti’s experience walking the Camino de Santiago from St. JeanPied-de-Port, France to Finisterre (“The End of the World”), Spain.
we are here tO heLp
From small business loans to business planning and coaching, we can help your business in Southwestern Ontario get on the fast track to success!
BuSineSS LOanS up to $250,000 to start, expand, or reposition your business. Equipment purchases, renovations, inventory and working capital can all be financed. BuSineSS COunSeLLing helps business operators combine knowledge and experience with sound business management principles and free one-on-one consulting is available.
Let’s Talk Business
Colleen Cardiff
Serving Brant County 519-752-4636
enterprisebrant.com
robert Manning
Bert Krikke
Serving West Lincoln and Haldimand County 905-765-5005
Serving Norfolk County 519-428-2323
granderie.com
venturenorfolk.ca
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 15
r e v o c s i D BRANTFORD
Adrianna Michell
The summers spent on my grandparents’ farm taught me about the importance of maintaining rural economies and supporting local farmers, businesses, and creators. Now as a university student living in a city, I still am connected to these values through my art, scholarship, veganism, and environmentalism. I know that as I grow, I should always remember where I was planted. Nicole VanQuaethem
simplynicnutrition.com As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Culinary Nutrition Expert and owner of Simply Nic Nutrition, I focus on empowering people to make healthy choices. I have my Masters of Science in Rural Planning and Development where I focused most of my research on local food systems, agri-tourism, culinary tourism and food access. Combining my passion for nutrition and local food, I teach people to eat within the seasons and to become connected to food. In my free time, when not in the kitchen testing recipes, I love getting outside, and cuddling and exploring with my little dog Chloe.
Grand River - Brant Park
Kari Raymer Bishop
Brantford International Villages Festival
Brantford Kinsmen Ribfest
A born nurturer, I love to help make anything grow and am happiest when I am investing in the growth of my child, garden, students or community. I am a teacher, beekeeper, writer, activist, and general nuisance. After traveling all over the world, I have found my home in Paris, where I live with a kind professor, a wild child and a sweet dog. Tim Zwart
Whether you want cultural experiences, outdoor adventure, fantastic family fun, sporting events, or culinary delights, you’ll find it all in Brantford - the big city with a small town feel. Visit us in person or online to plan your trip.
discoverbrantford.com BRANTFORD VISITOR & TOURISM CENTRE 399 WAYNE GRETZKY PARKWAY • BRANTFORD 1-800-265-6299 16 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
timjzwart.com I have always embraced being a round peg in a square hole. A walking contradiction, I am a single dad of two small children, an American void of ignorance, I love poutine but not maple syrup, and love sports but not hockey. I am a publishing veteran, magazine editor and author. My first book, Reload: Changing the way we view guns in America, is available on Amazon.
MARC DOUGLAS
marcdouglas.ca I wouldn’t change a thing about growing up in the small town of Paris where I discovered a love for photography. My goal is to show the beauty, strength and enthusiasm of my subjects. As a father of two children, I am a proud supporter of all things involving childhood cancer. I believe in enjoying all the little moments, because you never know what tomorrow brings. Jay Perry
jayperry.ca Over the last eight y ears, besides working as a photographer, I have been spending my Sundays travelling to small pockets of Ontario and documenting my day trips online. Whether it be stories of unique individuals, #delicious #food, or #historic #landmarks, I’ve been detailing every event through photo, video and words. Look for this regular feature in Live Small Town Mag but also please like us on our Facebookpage and my adventures on Instagram. I have some exciting ideas coming up and I can’t wait to show everyone the beauty that resides in our small towns. I also started a charity called Friends With Heart, that has raised $148,146.22 and provided 2100+ children with positive memories in an attempt to restore the magic of Christmas to them and their families.
welcome summer with one of our relaxinG aesthetics services. We specialize in an array of therapeutic practices, massage, body treatments, and yoga studio classes Open 6 days a week Monday - Saturday Sundays and after-hours are available for private rentals and events
519-759-1311 202 Grand river ave, Brantford i Grandwellness.ca
Kerstein Mallon
Growing up, in the land of fairies and leprechauns, twixt twilight and morning dew, I learned there’s more to life than meets the eye. Exploring ancient ruins offered an understanding of the past, present and future and how they intertwine. Now living in Ontario’s Garden enables me to meet wonderful people and visit truly remarkable places. It’s my absolute pleasure to be able to share these unique stories with you. If you have ideas for the mag or would like to join our team, please feel free to reach out kate@livesmalltownmag.ca. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 17
LET’S GET SOCIAL!!! With over 6260+ followers on twitter, 3500+ on Facebook, AND 1275+ On Instagram, there was no shortage of praise for our LAST issue of Live Small Town Magazine. Here are just a few of our Faves!
Landscaping & custom Homes Building Material Supplier
BeFoRe • Patio Stones • Wall Blocks • Gravel
aFteR • Brick • Stone • Step & Railings
• Natural Stone • Flag Stone • Armour Stone
Visit ouR sHowRoom 423 Mount Pleasant Rd. Brantford 519-752-1512 70 18 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
schuts.com
@JaniceBuck Wonderful local magazine! Beautiful pictures and information on local and surrounding areas. Love it! @MaurieMacDonald Absolutely LOVE this magazine. Great photos, great articles, great layouts... ok...ok... and even great ads! @LocksforLearning - BenPickles Thank you so much for the encouragement!!! @SCOR - SouthCentralOntarioRegion See the small town difference. Pick up a copy of @livesmalltownmag! @Blue Harvest Hair Design & Spa Partnering with an amazing publication! Check out @livesmalltownmag. @TastyRoadTripsFoodTours I love supporting local food entrepreneurs through writing delicious tales of gourmet adventures in Jan’s Tasty Road Trips in the @livesmalltownmag! @IndigoLoungeWellness Centre Check out this review from Spicy Jan Cooks and watch for the full story this summer of @livesmalltownmag!!! @Art with HEART Studio Inc. Thanks @livesmalltownmag for the love! We are hard at work creating our new space and can’t wait to share it with you officially in July! @Crepe House Thanks @livesmalltownmage. @Hometown Brew Co. @livesmalltownmag is at it again, giving solid, colourful and fresh coverage of southwestern Ontario! @Marc Douglas Photography Back from vacation and got my hands on the latest issue of @livesmalltownmag! So happy to be part of this issue! @The Artisans’ Collective, Paris Ont. Finally got my hands on a copy of @livesmalltownmag’s Spring issue! Theses babies go fast Grab a copy around town in Paris! @GROWE Another spectacular issue of @livesmalltownmag #outoftheordinary love being part of such a local lovin’ team! @Howell Road Cider Co. Check out this spring issue of @livesmalltownmag. It’s a great read for all things local and delicious! @Haldimand County Tourism Happy to see all the #Selkirk love! Thanks @livesmalltownmag! @Long Point Island Hugger Tours I’m humbled @livesmalltownmag!
Documentary Lifestyle Photography
inspired by a wild imagination and documenting the intricacies that define daily life; celebrating the in-betweens, knowing that every moment counts Limited availability for Documentary Lifestyle Photo Sessions in 2017. Limited availability for Documentary Lifestyle Photo Sessions in 2019. Email info@olliandella.com to book your session today! olliandella.com
Email info@olliandella.com to book your session today! olliandella.com Liveititfor fora aday. day.Live Liveititfor fora alifetime. lifetime. SUMMER SPRING 2019 19 71 Live
Kindness and caring is contagious!... It is the “bug” we should all hope to catch. I am a huge believer in paying it forward... hence my desire to showcase all of these “earth angels” and shine a light on the meaningful ways they help the people in our small-town communities. Talk about it, get excited about it and most of all - act on it! I will be showcasing acts of kindness in each issue of Live Small Town Magazine. If you have a special story, person or place that you would like me to showcase, please reach out. Wishing you all smiles, happiness and love.
Shared Harvest (CSA Program) Dunnville sharedharvestfarm.ca This not-for profit farm is changing the way we get our fresh produce with a Community Shared Agriculture Program. As a group of young farmers and volunteers, they are committed to growing certified organic food in an environmentally sustainable way. By supporting their CSA Program, we receive weekly, customized boxes of fresh goodies that also helps small scale farmers have part of their income guaranteed.
6
Changemakers, Having an Impact in a Community Near You! Sometimes it’s the little day-to-day things that go unrecognized in our lives which end up having the biggest impact BY Donna Ferrawey
Skunk Haven - Wildlife Centres Tillsonburg This place is certainly not your average animal rescue! Laurel Beechey has raised hundreds of baby skunks over the last 37 years and has only been sprayed a few times. As an Authorized Wild Life Custodian, Laurel speaks at service clubs and camps, teaching people how to live alongside skunks. Her advice: to move slowly, speak quietly and do not run. If you need help with a skunk call 519-842-9416. They’re so stinkin’ cute! 20 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Mohawk Village Memorial Park Brantford mohawkvillagepark.com This park will be built as a place of healing and remembrance. Plans for transforming these five acres into a tranquil place for reflection can be seen on a video found on their website and I urge you to take a minute to watch as you will understand what a labour of love this beautiful oasis is. The memorial began as an idea shared by survivors of the Mohawk Institute Residential School and the park will honour the memory of indigenous children and their families that suffered trauma. The school, on Mohawk Street will be a museum that preserves the history of the residential school experience. This is a history we must be determined to never repeat. This beautiful park will not undo the past, but hopefully will provide a place to find a bit of peace amongst nature and happy children.
Friends With Heart Hamilton friendswithhearts.com Following a mission trip to Haiti in 2010, Live Small Town Magazine’s very own Jay Perry discovered his passion for serving and has since dedicated his time and talent to charitable efforts including the establishment of Friends With Hearts which has raised $148,146.22 and provided 2100+ children with Christmas. We thank Jay for his dedication in helping families in need experience the true “Magic of Christmas”! If you are intrested in learning how you can help, please email info@friendswithhearts.com.
Ralphy’s Retreat Animal Sanctuary St Williams ralphysretreat.ca I never thought I would say this but I am in love with a pig! A Pot Bellied pig that is! Ralphy’s Retreat is a sanctuary for these adorable little (or sometimes large) animals. Founded in 2004, this not-for-profit animal sanctuary has been refuge for a wide variety of animals including horses, donkeys and ponies. In 2010 Ralphy’s accepted its first Pot Bellied
pig and so it began. This sanctuary is dedicated to educating families, school children, summer camps, and community groups about animal care and compassion, keeping the belief that children who learn to be compassionate will grow up to be compassionate adults. Animals are also non-judgemental and provide the perfect environment for us to be ourselves. Hugs to all the four-legged friends that my family and I bonded with at the sanctuary!
100 Norfolk Men Who Give A Damn Simcoe 100mennorfolk.com Working together to raise money for local charities and non-profit organizations in the community, four times a year, 100 men or more, give $100 each to support a single local cause. (Approx $10,000) This innovative thinking and commitment to helping others makes a powerful and meaningful difference, and we would like to say thank you to these men for all their efforts. What a great idea!
The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise Paris therawcarrot.com Rebecca and Colleen started The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise in 2014 with the firm belief that everyone should have the opportunity to find a meaningful place in the workforce. With each bowl of gourmet soup they create, individuals on social assistance are provided honest work and learn on-the-job kitchen skills. Can you really change peoples lives by making soup? Yes, and The Raw Carrot is doing it! Visit their website to find out how to order soup.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 21
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Community gardens come in many different shapes and sizes but the benefits of gardening, especially community gardening, can send ripples through the individual, family and community. These gardens not only help us reconnect with our food but fellow gardeners get to know one another and lasting friendships flourish. Below are just a few to explore.
Home Grown
Behind every good person, there has usually been some good food. At Live Small Town, we’d like to celebrate both by highlighting the best local foods and recipes around, while introducing you to the creative and talented people who make them possible. From innovative techniques and ingredients to updated twists on some of our old favorites, this is your one-stop shop for everything food, family, and fellowship related. After all, every food journey starts with a single bite!
photo BY Nancy Domsic Kings - olliandella.com
Equal Ground Community Gardens, Brantford and Brant County, egcgbrant.com Tillsonburg Community Garden, goodwillindustries.ca Thompson Creek Community Garden, Dunnville Shared Harvest Community Farm, Dunnville, sharedharvestfarm.ca John Race Memorial Community Garden, Simcoe
Our Compliments From Vintage Wines to Microbreweries and unique IPAs and Lagers, let us lend a hand with suggestions to accompany your meal or gathering
Get your drink on!
Above Flat bread photo from the Cedar House in Paris BY Marc Douglas - marcdouglas.ca, Right photo of Shakura S’Aida by Denise Grant
Paris Drinks Fest is the ultimate summer shindig that celebrates all things delicious. Beer, wine, spirits, cider and food + whole lot of great tunes! BY Tim Zwart Summer is all about the “Three F’s”: friends, food and fun (in no particular order or percentage). It’s the time when we enjoy the sun, get outdoors, hang out on patios, enjoy more of the day, and generally are in our best moods of the year. And how could we not be? When it’s warm outside and the sun hits your face, a feeling of peace and tranquility washes over you like none other and you feel energized, inspired, happy and alive. Combining all of those things creates the perfect summer cocktail of enjoyment, and few places can do it better than the Paris Drinks Fest. A celebration of all things delicious, this happening outing combines all three f’s in the form of local beer, wine, spirits, foods and music, all taking place the magical weekend
August 16th and 17th. Come enjoy the sunshine and outdoors of Paris’ Lions Park while sampling and supporting local businesses and artists, with dozens of each set to greet and entertain you in an open setting straight out of a Mary Poppins painting. With multiple ticket options (a single session between $20 and $28, Weekend Pass between $62 and $75, and Reserved Table between $120 and $250), and timings available (Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 12-5pm and 6-10pm), as well as FREE local shuttle service, there is absolutely no excuse to miss this amazing event. Early bird tickets are available at parisdrinks.ca, or can be purchased at the gate on the day of your choosing. We will see you there for sure!
Inasphere Wines St Williams When you’re the new kid on the block you need to do something to make people stand up and take notice - especially when that block is home to some of the greatest wineries in all of Canada. Renowned the world over for its fertile soil and lush grapes, the landscape of the tri-counties is practically made for producing great wines and spirits, and the bar for excellence is set relatively high. This exclusive club doesn’t just swing its doors open for anyone, but in 2016 it graciously received its newest member: Inasphere Wines. Founded by husband and wife team (and local vegetable farmers) Ryan and Shantel Bosgoed, this picturesque setting overlooking Lake Eerie has come roaring out of the gate, and has already developed quite the following. Topping their list of offerings is the unique (and aptly named) The Grey Area. Nestled snuggly between a rose and a white, this local beauty actually changes colour as it ages, bottled as a stark white and transforming into a sunset-red the longer it sits! It is so popular, in fact, that the Bosgoed’s supply has barely been able to keep up with the demand, as they routinely sell out a month or so after production. Truly an experience straight out of a classic novel, Inasphere is a must-see and must drink this summer season. TZ
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 23
On the Map
Indulge Ice Cream Simcoe and Cambridge indulgeicecream.ca Just the name Indulge is enough to get your taste buds dancing but then you pull up to this big red 1958 Leyland Double Decker Bus in Simcoe and discover that 35 flavours of gourmet ice cream are served in hand rolled waffle cones and you are drooling! The owners say that this is such a pleasant business to run that they are now serving up creamy delights in three locations.
Don’t look now, but there’s a definite buzz around Southwestern Ontario’s culinary scene. No matter what you are craving, chances are there’s a restaurant, bar, winery or bistro in one of our small towns that will not only satisfy, but also leave you spoilt for choice. But in this issue, we were on the search for food trucks and found some gems. So really, there’s no excuse not to break outside your comfort zone, explore a bit and partake in some top quality food and drink right on your very own doorstep. BY NANCY COWELL
David’s On Tour Port Dover Stop by The Links at The Dover Coast in Port Dover for a round of golf and then enjoy a delicious lunch and a cold beverage at David’s on Tour. As an extension of the well known David’s Restaurant, you will enjoy locally sourced cuisine, weekly specials and a menu that is sure to satisfy your desire for a good meal after your workout. The motto for this food truck should be Living The Good Life!
24 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Dobro Jesti Caledonia dobrojesti.ca Getting SCHNITZELFACED sounds like a great way to feed not only your face but your soul as well. Debro Jesti is an ethnic melting pot of Slovenian, Canadian and family traditions in every delicious bite. Keep your eyes open for this Little Red Food Truck on the streets of Caledonia in the summer and at the Caledonia Community Hall when the weather turns cold. Treat yourself!
Tacos Vs Ice Cream Brantford You might not think of tacos and ice cream as gourmet combo, but when the team at Tacos vs Ice Cream puts their creative minds to work you would be amazed what they have come up with. You will find this Brantford food truck at local festivals, serving up sweet s’mores Tacos or on a savoury side, a Pho-Taco. They also cater gourmet meals that will have you melting... like a puddle of ice cream.
The Little Cheesecake Company Simcoe thelittlecheesecakecompany.com If you are looking for something extra special for a weekend treat, you need to stop at The Little Cheesecake Company. Unless they are serving up their decadent pieces of heaven at a special event, you can normally find them at 94 Norfolk St. Simcoe Friday-Sundays. We are lucky to have the only cheese cake truck in Canada right here, indulging us with over 70 flavours of creamy delights. All healthy and deliciously well done!
The Peachy Rooster photo by Blackbird Photography blackbirdphotographs.com
The Peachy Rooster Mobile Bar Woodstock thepeachyrooster.com What could be more peachy than having a travelling bar at your next party or family reunion? The Peachy Rooster from Woodstock will create the perfect cocktails, mocktails and punches to suit your very own individual party plan. Make your wedding the talk of town for years to come when this unique re-purposed 1970 European Horse Trailer pulls up and the bar is open for business!
Mobile Menus
Alice’s Mobile Restaurant Scotland alicesrestaurants.ca You can get anything you want at Alice’s Mobile Restaurant. With three trailers serving up great food at events all over the province you have probably come across them at fairs, air shows and different special events but I bet you did not know you can hire them to cater anything from an outdoor pig roast to a sit-down gourmet dinner. Leave it all to them.
Maracle Man’s Delivery and Take Out Ohsweken This place sure is a hit! Hard work is not something Jesse Maracle is afraid of so it is no surprise that what started as a hamburger and fry stand has turned into a business with two locations offering an extensive menu with everything from fries to full course dinners. Stop by either the 6th Line or the 4th Line location to find something tasty for dinner.
Camp 31 BBQ Food Truck Paris camp31.com If you are a big Ribfest fan, you have no doubt sampled the real Southern Alabama BBQ fare served up in the Camp 31 BBQ rig. When this award winning team pulls in and starts smokin’ you know the food is going to be finger lickin’ good. Catering is also available for weddings and shindigs of all sorts, so stop by their Paris restaurant, located at 22 Paris Road, to enquire, because the aroma is sure to seal the deal!
BRANTFORD
H
AL
DI
MAN
D COUN
TY
LAKE ERIE
Exit 36 Food Truck Experience Brantford yourevangel.ca Thursday evenings from May to August you can enjoy the Exit 36 Food Truck Experience set up in the Evangel Church Parking Lot in Brantford. There are tables and chairs or bring a blanket to spread out and have an old-fashioned picnic while the kids are kept entertained with the many games set up on the lawn for them. Come out and create some fun and delicious family memories.
Andy’s On Wheels Port Rowan What do you do when you already have a fantastic Drive In restaurant? Well, you add a food truck! This summer you will find Andy’s On Wheels set up in Port Rowan alongside the new Jonny’s Farm Fresh Market at the gateway to Long point. From 11 am to 7 pm every day you can enjoy one of the great options from their pared-down menu they offer at Andy’s Drive In just north of Langton.
The Hen House Eatery Nanticoke thehenhouseeatery.wordpress.com Off the beaten track in Nanicoke you will find The Hen House Eatery serving up breakfasts, lunches and even a Friday Night Dinner Special made from fresh local products. Enjoy the picnic-like atmosphere surrounded by pastures and farm life as you chow down on a Hen House Poutine, fresh cut fries topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, homemade ranch dressing and fresh green onions.
Todd’s Dogs Woodstock toddsdogs.ca Todd’s Dogs started as a small cart in Woodstock serving up some great jumbo hot dogs and has evolved into a business that caters events all over southwestern Ontario. Poutine made with homemade gravy and Oxford County Cheese Curds is just one option but frankly what a great alternative to the late night snack table at a wedding or a special event like a staff appreciation day!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 25
Four uniquely unForgettable dining experiences in downtown paris!
59 grand river st n, paris 519-302-3001 midtownparis.com
Casual Italian Riverside Dining
59 grand river st n, paris 519-302-3001 trattoriaparis.com
26 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
61 grand river st n, paris 519-302-3000 stillwatersplateandpour.ca
Casual Dining the way it was meant to be!
Burger Mondays • Kids Eat Free Tuesdays • Wing Night Wednesdays Mill St. Thirsty Thursdays • Fisherman Fridays • Rib Fest Saturdays 10 Perch For 7 Sundays • Half Prices Apps Every Night After 9 pm
111 grand river st n, paris 519-442-1820 cobblestonepub.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 27
Please let us share our restaurant with its unique coastal cuisine and tropical trend in one of Ontario’s best small towns, Port Dover. 2 Walker St. Port Dover 519-583-0880
28 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Earthly Delights
Like all young farmers, I am staking out the space to change the face of how you buy food and am proud of those who lead my way. BY Danielle Arva Hi there. My name is Danielle Arva. I am 26, the 4th generation living on my family’s farm in Mount Pleasant and I am the owner and operator of Earthly Delights! I produce homegrown and pesticide-free produce, frozen soups and ready-made meals all on my oneacre garden and commercial kitchen. Earthly Delights was a passion project that began 6 years ago. While in university, I began my small-scale vegetable stand as a secondary means of income. Quickly I fell in love with growing my own produce, harvesting it and selling to the general public. As well, I loved educating people on the importance of buying local and following my own personal slogan; know the face attached to your food.
For myself, seeing the disconnect between the general public and their food was startling. When I began selling at local farmers markets, many of my customers had no idea where their food came from. I also found people had no working knowledge of the incredible amount of work, time and finances that went in to planting, growing and harvesting the food they were buying. For myself, the entire production cycle of my products is important. Because I plant, grow, harvest, weed, pick, and sell all of my own produce, I have very little outside purchasing. I literally know everything about my produce-the exact time when the seeds went in the ground, the first rounds of picking and the moment I washed those freshly picked tomatoes and prepared them for a deliciously nutritious soup. When it comes to any additional ingredients used in my frozen foods, everything comes from less than 14km away from the farm. From planting the first seeds in the ground to freezing the last batch of soup, everything stays in one location and is prepared by one person. I find this aspect of my business model intrigues people most, because they are used to a world based on mass production. That said, I believe knowing the face attached to your food can also provide people with security and accountability. I currently sell my produce at the Waterford Farmers Market and I sell my frozen items at Sam’s Place Farm Market in Scotland, Norton Farms in Hagersville and Good Bread Company in Vittoria.
JUST A FEW LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS TO SUPPORT LOCAL! 1 Dunnville Farmers Market, Tues. to Sat. 7 am –12 pm 2 Our Sustenance, Ohsweken Mon. to Fri. 8:30 am – 4 pm 3 Simcoe Farmers’ Market, Thurs. 9 am –4 pm 4 Brantford Farmers Market, Thurs. 9 am –5 pm, Sat. 7 am –2 pm 5 Elberta Farms Country Market, Paris, 7 days a week 9 am –5 pm 6 Brantwood Farms, Brantford , Fri. and Sat. 9am – 6pm, Sun. 10am – 5pm 7 Port Rowan Farmers’ Market, Fri. 3 –6 pm 8 Sundown Country Market, Tillsonburg, 7 days a week 8 am –7 pm 9 Richardson’s Farm and Market, Dunnville Mon. and Wed., 9 am –5 pm, Sat. 9 am –3 pm 10 Tillsonburg Farmers Market, Sat. 8 am –12 11 The Windmill Country Market, Mount Pleasant, Tues. to Thurs. and Sat. 7 am –6 pm 12 Caledonia Farmers Market, Thurs. 3 –7 pm 13 Woodstock Farmers Market, Tues and Sat. 8 –1 pm Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 29
30 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Simply Delicious Dishes Healthy living isn’t as hard as you may think! The region has so much to offer to support healthy living and eating.
Photography by Nicole VanQuaethem
BY Nicole VanQuaethem People tend to crave more raw and fresh fruits and vegetables in the summer months which makes it the perfect time to take advantage of the local seasonal produce in the area. Sourcing local produce can really make a difference in the overall freshness, taste and nutrient density of a dish. Local food is generally fresher because it is picked closer to the time of it being sold whereas much of the produce that is sourced from other countries has a long way to travel. This is also true when it comes to nutrient density because when food travels long distances, it can lose some of this nutritional value. Not only does purchasing local mean fresher and more nutrient-dense food but is also supports local producers and small businesses in the area.
Luckily for us, there are many fruits and vegetables which can be found locally during the summer months. Be sure This summer, look out for to check out Nic’s healthy local peaches, melons, class options and berries as well as local online! beans, beets, leafy greens, Rainbow Veggie peppers, tomatoes and so Spring Rolls much more. Ingredients Not sure how to incor2 avocados, sliced porate some of these local 1 beet, shredded foods into your healthy 2 bell peppers, sliced cooking? Try eating fresh 1 apple, sliced fruit on its own or add it to 2 stalks of celery, sliced yogurt, oatmeal or salads. 1 large carrot, shredded When it comes to local 1 medium cucumber, sliced vegetables, try making a 8-10 rice paper wraps salad with leafy greens, tomatoes and roasted root Sauce vegetables. Or you can try 1 tbsp tamari my go-to spring roll recipe 2 tbsp almond or peanut which makes a great sumbutter mer snack or side dish and 1 tbsp sesame oil doesn’t require any cooking! 1 tsp chili flakes (optional) Make them with friends, ½ tsp garlic powder or bring them to the cottage, or fresh garlic serve at a shower.
Directions 1. Fill a roasting pan or shallow bowl with warm water and place rice paper wrap in water until it begins to soften. It will continue to soften after it is out of the water. 3. Layout the rice paper and line your fruit and veggies on the edge closest to you 4. Leave 1 inch on each side 5. Begin to roll and tuck while also folding in the sides 6. Make sauce by combining all the ingredients. If needed, add water slowly to thin or more nut butter to thicken. 7. Eat as is or cut in half and serve sauce Makes 8-10 spring rolls
Nicole VanQuaethem is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Culinary Nutrition Expert and owner of Simply Nic Nutrition, where she focuses on educating and empowering people to make healthy choices for themselves. She also has her Masters of Science in Rural Planning and Development where she focused most of her research on local food systems, agri-tourism, culinary tourism and food access. Nicole grew up on a farm, which inspired her studies and work in rural development in southern Ontario. Combining her passion for nutrition and local food, she teaches people to eat within the seasons and to become connected to the food they eat. In her free time, she likes to spend time in the kitchen testing recipes, getting outside, and cuddling with her little dog Chloe. simplynicnutrition.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 31
Jan’s Tasty Road Trips
Our ever-growing food scene just keeps expanding. This has foodies in larger cities pretty envious, making us their choice dining destination! BY Spicy Jan Summer is here and patios are serving up two-handed soft bun, savoury burger experiences. You will fall in love with these delish road trip destinations in your own backyard. Local organic beef, chickpea,
mushroom, the choices are endless and oh so memorable. Through the mouthwatering research of finding the perfect burg, I discovered the ultimate ‘trophy’ is held with individual criteria. Some want to
ensure the bottom bun isn’t soggy halfway through, then it was the onion ring on top for the perfect crunch, the search for vegan chipotle mayo and I can’t forget the skinny gluten free bun that was mandatory regardless of the burger. I learned that the deep dive into savoury, creates a distinct moment in time placing you exactly where you were when you took that first bite! Do you remember? I sure do and these four destinations gave me one heck of a delicious memory.
Jan loves curating tour experiences to tempt the senses with local food and beverages. Email info@ tastyroadtrips.com or visit tastyroadtrips.com.
A TASTE DESTINATION Spicy Jan did the gut-busting work for you and distilled
it down to four absolute must-eats locations this issue!
Main 88 Pizza Pub Hagersville Cruise on over to Main 88 and try to conquer The Banquet Burger! This succulent homemade burger reminded me of my Dad’s Saturday night homemade burgs made with love! This ‘bad boy burg’ was cooked to perfection with secret seasonings and Paul kept me at arm’s length to the recipe. It’s loaded with mustard, pickles, onion, cheese, bacon and lettuce, yet something had me intrigued, it was a flavour on the tip of my tongue. It was the bun! The savoury toasting of the brioche bun plus the onion ring skewered on top, took this burger experience over the top.
Cravin A Burger Burford Memorabilia of Elvis, The Beach Boys and Marilyn Monroe plus a rockin’ Philly Cheeseburger are sizzling hot at Cravin’ a Burger. This smoky burger is heaped with sautéed peppers, onions, garlic mushrooms, mounds of mozzarella and a secret sauce that pulls the flavours together in harmony. The menu is authentically rock n’roll and a milkshake is a perfect side to a homemade burg. It’s worth the drive to Burford to enjoy this 50’s burger joint with the menu to match and music on the cassette. Guaranteed when you leave, you’ll be humming a tune from the good old days.
32 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Indigo Lounge Tillsonburg indigolounge.ca Lunch at the Indigo Lounge offered a healthy foodie connection, that left me drooling for more. One Apple Butter Bacon Burg coming up! The space was calm and zen-like, filled with quiet conversations and relaxing lunch time connections. My burger arrived with a pleasing co-mingling of apple butter, nitrate-free bacon, feta cheese, sautéed onions, and smoky mayo all on a skinny gluten free bun. This twist on an organic burger raised the bar for #healthycanbedelicious and I certainly felt at one with my lunchtime visit.
The Combine Simcoe thecombine.ca Cheers to Simcoe home of The Combine! Their athome, trendy vibe offers a sense of ‘you’re welcome to stay a while,’ so I did! Two burgers please! The Combine Burger is stacked! That grainy mustard, Jensen aged cheddar, smoked bacon and caramelized onion on a brioche bun, are what summertime patio dreams are made of. Also on the menu is a gourmet Vegan Know Meat Burger, a crispy chickpea, bean, carrot, onion and garlic burger on a gluten free bun. It was so hard to pick just one, so I didn’t. They were both delish to the last bite!
cinq รก sept Monday to Friday 5-7pM 1/2 price raw oysters, buy one get get one 1/2 price starters & small plates + $5 house wine.
Inspired by French Bistros and Lyonnaise Bouchon cuisine, Juniper Dining Co. is a modern fine dining restaurant with a comfortable and casual environment, located in Paris, Ontario. We marry quality local and seasonal ingredients with inventive cocktails, local beers and carefully chosen wines to create memorable experiences, time and time again.
3 Elm St, PariS 519-302-2200
patio season + daily speCials
juniperdiningco.ca
Wed. $5 CoCktails tHURs. $5 appitizeRs WitH tHe pURCHase of an entRee fRi. live MUsiC sat. BoGo 1/2 pRiCe apps afteR 8 pM sUn. 1/2 pRiCe pRiMe RiB
12 Broadway St w, PariS 519-442-5555
cedarhouseparis.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 33
Rural Roooots!
Rural recreation is the cure-all you’re craving and roots are so cool and underground, they’re like the most indie thing in the planet. Put those two things together and you’ve got (yell it!) Rural Rooooots: Your indispensable, unconventional guide to bucolic wonder and countryside cravings. BY J.C. Villamere
You need more farm markets in your life!
Please feel free to reach out and let us know about other farming folks, within the community who are doing it different!
They are just the thing for when you want to relax but you still want to feel productive. Or when you need to get stuff done but you also have the kids following you everywhere. Maybe you don’t want to fight the traffic to Niagara Falls but you really should show your house guests what the area has to offer. And when even though you need groceries, you would really just like to get in the car, crank the stereo, and drive? That’s when farm markets are your destination of choice. In all these situations and dozens more, you need more farm markets. They are like a field trip where you can also pick up groceries. Farm markets offer more than local flavours, they offer local character. These are your neighbours and they have a bounty to share with you. It is the season to show up. Here are some of your area’s perennial favourite farm stands and markets. Plan the right route around your region and you’ll stumble upon these gems that you will be bound to return to again and again.
34 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Snyder’s Sweet Corn & Farm Stand
Caledonia snyderscorn.ca Snyder’s Sweet Corn and Farm Stand Snyder’s Corn has a mascot that is a cob of corn with limbs made of husks and his name is Chester. I’m not sure why you’d need any other information than that to attract you to this Caledonia corn farm but some people just can’t be pleased and so for them, I will continue this report. Tom and Brenda Snyder helm this family-run operation, which has been in business since 1981. (If Chester was born that year, it means he is 38 years old.) You can buy cobs of corn with cash or tap — yes, a corn stand with tap-to-pay! Corn is $0.75 a cob or 14 for $7. Is there anything greater that you can buy for $7 than 14 fresh cobs of corn? Is that a weird question? I’m sorry, I’ve got Chester on my mind. Snyder’s grows a variety of non-GMO sweet corn and the season wraps up at the end of August. For details, visit snyderscorn.ca. (The website features a downloadable Chester colouring sheet!) It’s sickening to think how fast the end of summer just shows up, so get yourself some Snyder’s sweet corn early, and get it often. The farm stand is easy to find. Chester is on the sign.
Elberta Farms Country Market
Paris elbertafarms.ca When you squish two words into one, it’s called a portmanteau and I love them. Squish “breakfast” and “lunch” together to get “brunch?” It’s a terrific equation. Do you know who else loved a good portmanteau? Joseph Berta. He co-founded this farm with his wife in 1967 and when it came time to name the farm, he christened it with a portmanteau of his wife’s name: “Elizabeth Berta”. Six children and more than 50 years later, this family landmark welcome folks year round with their local, farm-fresh eggs, fruits, vegetables, and baked goods. They also offer a wide selection of hand-inspected garden plants including bedding plants, herbs, flowers, and vegetables (check out their hot pepper selection!). Sons Andrew, Michael, and Stephen now work with mom Elizabeth at this must-visit market that also stocks what you need to keep your garden growing, including garden soil, mix, and fertilizer. And you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy petting the onsite goats and sheep. This place is sure to become one of your fave “farkets” — that’s a portmonteau of “farm” and “markets” that I just made up. Let’s make it a thing — or at least make farkets your thing this summer. 4 Seasons Farm Shop
Simcoe 4-seasons-farm-shop.business.site Since 2015, the Four Seasons Farm Shop has been a popular year-round destination to pick up fresh local fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, preserves, spices and more. They grow specialty veg like purple potatoes and purple cauliflower onsite. Like ‘em on Facebook and get in on their weekly deals. And when you visit, make a point of picking up a pint of strawberries: did you know Norfolk grows more strawberries than anywhere else in the province? You should know that the owners, Cynthia and Danny, are from the Netherlands so if you want to pop in and practice your Dutch (or your German or your Spanish), you’re in luck. But the most germane reason to tell you that this gang is Dutch is because the Dutch have the best sandwich recipes. Earlier this year, I was made aware of the hagelslag sandwich (chocolate sprinkles served open-face on buttered bread). Now, thanks to Cynthia, I am craving another Dutch sandwich recipe. It calls for fresh white bread, spread with butter, then topped with sugar-sprinkled sliced strawberries. In Dutch, this sandwich is called overheerlijke boterham met aardbeien. This summer, let’s call this sandwich lunch. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 35
Culinary Arts At Brantwood Farm, we grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. Beginning with rhubarb and asparagus in the spring and picking continually through the summer season to apples and pumpkins in the fall. We also offer pick your own strawberries and apples, schools tours, birthday parties and Fall Festival weekends in October.
A Chocolate Lovers Dream! JOIN US FOR A UNIQUE CHOCOLATE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Learn about chocolate while indulging your senses with our hand crafted Belgian chocolate.
22 Argyle St S, Opened in 1927, Oasis is Canada’s oldest drive-in restaurant. Pop in for their tasty foot-long hot dogs, golden fresh cut fries or a big scoop ice cream cone. While there, visit the Haldimand House.
Please visit our website for July & August tasty dates & details!
320 Colborne St W Brantford 519-751-1119
The perfecT pairing of STyle, relaxaTion, local flavour & aTTainabiliTy in porT Dover!
Be sure to visit David’s on Tour at The links at Dover coast during the 2019 golf season + Dover cab will bring it right to your port Dover doorstep! Check out our website for more details.
519-759-4383
36 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Cayuga Shelly’s Family Dining Restaurant
1192 Kohler Rd, shellyscatering.wixsite.com/ shellysrestaurant This unique restaurant is set in a remodelled old church, and quite often has live music serenading its patrons. The home-style fare is also heavenly. DUNNVILLE Julia’s Bistro
Open 7 days a week 251 Powerline Rd, Brantford
brantwoodfarms.com
345 Argyle St S, theargylestreetgrill.com Upscale eatery at family-friendly prices. Mainly fresh and local products makes the Argyle a must-try. Oasis Drive-In
lechocolatdusavoie.com
GET FRESH!
HALDIMAND COUNTY CALEDONIA Argyle St. Grill
davidsportdover.com golfatdovercoast.ca elementsdayspa.ca
217 Niagara St, juliasbistroandcatering.com Julia satisfies anyone’s craving for homemade Italian cooking while adding her unique style! The Minga
146 Queen St, Serious coffees and sweets; many of their ingredients are organic, and most are sourced locally. You can’t beat their organic, fair-trade coffee for $1.80! FISHERVILLE Fisherville Hotel & Tavern
2 Erie Ave S, thetav.ca Built as a hotel for travelling salesmen in 1853, the Fisherville Hotel & Tavern remains the destination for tourists and travellers alike. Explore an amazing local craft beer selection and honest food, or stay overnight to experience history and a small-town pace on your country getaway.
NE IG
HAGERSVILLE Hewitt’s Dairy Bar
4210 Highway 6, hewittsdairy.com/dairy-bar Featuring an old-time lunch counter feel that looks right out of the 1950’s, a great selection of ice-cream treats and simple diner fare. A reminder that not everything has to change.
OURHOO D HB
Main 88 Pizza Pub
88 Main St S, This place offers the best pizza around, with lots of flavourful toppings on a thin crust. The bar is well stocked with beer and spirits, and with large flat screens, it is the perfect place to watch the game. JARVIS Devine’s Country Restaurant
116 Talbot St E, devinesrestaurant.ca Famous for their all-day breakfast, savoury lunches and homemade desserts that are nothing short of divine. NORFOLK COUNTY Normandale The Normandale Century Inn and Restaurant
Field To Table Country Dining Stop by to watch the game, grab a pint, hunker down and prepare to never want to leave until you’ve eaten your way through our menu. Whether it’s our sinful pizza, our stop-your-heart sandwiches, or our lick-your-figures-clean wings, we take pride in everything we make.
88 Main St S, HaGERSViLLE 905-768-4040
2326 Front Rd, normandaleinn.com Stay for a few nights or a single meal and enjoy their licensed outdoor patio featuring delicious country cuisine. PORT DOVER David’s Restaurant
168 New Lake Shore Rd, davidsportdover.com This refined Canadian restaurant with lake view offers an upstairs lounge with live weekend music. Knechtel’s
15 Walker St, knechtelfoods.ca A Port Dover signature beachfront destination for over 50 years, serving Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel, burgers, foot-long hot dogs, and ice cream cones. The Beach House
2 Walker St, Great food, great staff, great prices, and a stunning view right on Lake Erie! Sunday brunch, Eggs Benny is a must! The Crepe House
2012 Park St, crepehouse.ca A quaint eatery set in an 1880s house features sweet and savoury crepes along with espresso drinks.
am-6pm 0 1 1 2 m Sept. 0am-5p 1 2 2 . t Sep stival amily fe afts, f ic t s a t a fan pies, cr s’ apples, g , kid in t h g ainment Free t highli r e t n e live re. artisans, s and much mo arking. ie p it d activ n an admissio
fest.com e l p p a e stgeorg Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 37
SAINT WILLIAMS Burning Kiln Winery
1709 Front Rd, burningkilnwinery.ca A spectacular winery that honours agricultural heritage, culinary, and cultural bounty of Norfolk County. SIMCOE Barrel Restaurant
Come Discover Haldimand Haldimand County’s spring-summer 2019 Community guide Discover community events & programs, municipal information, tourism destinations, business resources and much more.
131 Queensway W, barrelrestaurant.ca A warm inviting atmosphere with fresh home-made Italian food, gourmet pizza, chicken, veal, seafood, and gluten-free items. A casual Italian restaurant at its best. Celebrating 30 years of great food. Dine in, patio, takeout, and delivery available. The Combine
352 Norfolk St S, thecombine.ca Fun, honest food built on local bounty. Brick oven, patio and wine menu. Joy Bakery Café
126 Robinson St, joyofnorfolk.ca What an excellent place to visit with friends, drink good coffee, eat fabulous baked goods and simply relax! Locally sourced deliciousness at its best. TURKEY POINT Sandbar On The Beach
45 Cedar Dr, sandbaronthebeach.com Come for the breathtaking view of Lake Erie from their incredible patio, then stay and enjoy a meal with an assortment of craft beers and a tasteful wine selection to pair. The Jetty Bar & Grill
236 Ordnance Dr, thejetty.ca The Jetty is a casual eatery with a picturesque view of Lake Erie and a 150seat patio. The restaurant is open year round with a great weekend breakfast that residents and cottagers love!
View it online at HaldimandCounty.ca/community-guide or pick up your free copy from any County office, library or museum.
WATERFORD Kerry’s St. James St. Eatery
10 St James St S, A relaxing and nostalgically retro atmosphere with an amazing cup of joe and tantalizing homemade fare! Ritzy Cakes & Eatery
20 Alice St, robinsritzycakes.com A spectacular small-town bakery also serving coffees, teas, paninis, soups, Belgian waffles, breakfast and so much more. Did I mention their treats? 38 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Vittoria The Catherwood and The Kiln
1560 Old Brock St, The Catherwood and The Kiln is a family-style restaurant famous for homemade pizza, wings, and the Nitehawk sub! Dine in, or take their flavourful feasts to go. BRANT COUNTY BURFORD Cravin a Burger
121 King St, A burger place with a 50s/60s rock and roll atmosphere that brags that their food is not fast food; it’s just served fast. Mount Pleasant Devlin’s Country Bistro & Catering
704 Mt. Pleasant Rd. devlinscountrybistro.com This former combined general store, post office and residence has been an enduring fixture in the community for over 125 years, adding Devlin’s Country Bistro in 1990. Offering contemporary Italian cuisine with a unique and delicious Californian flair. St George Abigail’s Tea House
2 Main St, abigailsteahouse.com Located in an old bank in a picturesque village, they offer an exquisite dining experience in a calm and beautifully antique-inspired environment. Reservations are always recommended. PARIS Juniper Dining Co.
3 Elm St, juniperdiningco.ca Inspired by French bistros and Lyonnaise Bouchon cuisine, this modern restaurant marries quality local and seasonal ingredients with inventive cocktails, local beers and carefully chosen wines to create memorable experiences, time and time again. Midtown Kitchen & Coffee Co.
59 Grand River St N, midtownparis.com An artisanal New York deli and coffee house using fresh ingredients, chefinspired soups, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts.
PRemium eSPReSSo, Single SouRced coffee, dAilY BAked TReATS, lunch & locAllY SouRced ingRedienTS!
joyofnorfolk.ca 126 Robinson St. Simcoe 519-420-9999
45 Queensway east, simcoe 301 water st s, Galt 10 Queen st e, cambridGe
indulgeicecream.ca
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 39
Stillwaters Plate & Pour
take yoUR passIon to the next level! Become a certified personal trainer through the country’s most reputable organization, canfitpro! We offeR the folloWIng personal trainer specialist certification cpR/aed • fascia Movement and assessments course • financial fittness how to start and build a successful fitness business. level 1 & 2 • private tutoring to help you pass your examinations.
61 Grand River St N, stillwatersplateandpour.ca A globally inspired menu, created by Chef William Thompson of Food Network’s Top Chef Canada, coupled with a breathtaking rooftop patio leaves nothing to the imagination. The Cobblestone Pub
111 Grand River St N, cobblestonepub.ca This laid-back, old-time watering hole features a menu of gourmet versions of pub favourites, and is a mainstay for neighbours and visitors alike. Trattoria at Midtown
59 Grand River St N, trattoriaparis.com Set in a “cellar like” atmosphere, Trattoria at Midtown is opened at 4pm, 7 days a week and focuses on casual Italian fare and wines. canfitpro.com
20 Roy Blvd, 18-UppeR BRantfoRd 647-821-3488 (fItt) I fIttology.ca
BRANTFORD Cafe Andreou
104 West St, Fine dining in an 1865 home with Italian and continental cuisine. Enjoy exquisite food with hospitality at its finest. Elements Casino Brantford
40 Icomm Dr, elementscasinobrantford.com Table games, slots and a poker room and great shows draw people to this venue and the great breakfast, lunch and dinner menu keeps them coming back! On the Lam
106 Queen St, onthelamrestaurant.com What a unique restaurant! Gourmet and RAW menus, fine wines, craft beers, old-school cocktails all in a really cool location. Check them out!
the freshest food with the friendliest service 131 Queensway W, Simcoe
519-426-0068
Sociable Kitchen & Tavern
45 King George Rd, sociabletavern.ca A hip hangout with globally inspired pub fare including brunch and craft beers and cocktails in funky and fun environment. Strodes BBQ & Deli
Patio • Dine-In • Delivery • Catering • Take-Out
www.barrelrestaurant.ca 40 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
403 Fairview Drive, strodes.ca Open since 1937, Strodes not only carries a variety of select cuts of chicken, beef, poultry, lamb and other specialty meats, but also serves up homestyle lunch options.
SIX NATIONS of the grand river TERRITORY Ohsweken Burger Barn
3000 4th Line, burgerbarn.ca Known for their amazing gourmet burgers that are always served with a surprising twist. Their southern style comfort food is sure to satisfy any appetite. Offering daily specials and all day breakfast. Village Cafe 1875 4th Line, If you are near Ohsweken be sure to go to the Village Cafe. The food is reasonably priced, delicious and the atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming. If you are looking for something traditional, the corn soup is a must! Oxford County ingersoll The Olde Bakery Cafe
120 Thames St S, theoldebakerycafe.com Offering healthy breakfast and lunch options with an array of tasty and yummy (not so healthy ;) pastries. Just like grandma used to make! Tillsonburg d’Lish Kitchen Cafe
518 Broadway #1 dlishkitchencafe.ca A hearty diner creating tasty food for health concious bodies. From Chickpeas to Kombucha, your belly will thank you.
Woodstock, tillsonburg, ingersoll, norWich, tavistock, drumbo, embro
519-539-9800 1-866-801-7368 x3355 tourism@oxfordcounty.ca
Selkirk Village with a history by the lake
tourismoxford.ca
TASTY ROAD TRIPS TOURS unforgettable food+Drink experiences
The Cup And Cake
38 Ridout St W Delicious food from scratch, soups, sandwiches, salads, frittata, gourmet cupcakes and baked goods all located in a beautiful century home. Woodstock Sixthirtynine
639 Peel St, sixthirtynine.com Dedicated to fresh and refined, farm to table cuisine with a tasteful dining space that provides a comfortable and unpretentious dining experience. Tandoori Knight
511 Dundas St, tandooriknight.ca If you love Indian food this is a muststop place to eat. Everything is flavourful and fresh, and the portions are always generous.
Museums
Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum Cottonwood Mansion Canadian Drilling Rig Museum
Shops
Barnwood Wine • Erie Collectables Muirheads Variety (Gas) • Town & Country Foods (LCBO & Beer Store)
Restaurants
Fisherville Tavern • The Hen House Hoover’s Marina • Rainham Centre Dairy Bar Shelly’s Family Dining • Sunflower Cafe
Events
Jan. - Robbie Burns • Feb. - Heritage Day Jun. - Car Show, Super Sat. Aug. - Gas Fest, Fish Fry & Dance Sep. - Drilling Rig Open House Dec. - Illuminated Tractor Parade Selkirk Chamber of Commerce selkirkchamberofcommerce@gmail.com www.selkirk-ontario.com View historical and drone videos... Historical Tour... Read National Magazine Article on Selkirk and Haldimand County
Escape for the weekend, enjoy an afternoon with friends, celebrate a special occasion while exploring a local, behind the scenes experience in food, drink, farms, art, boutique shops & community with Southwestern Ontario’s leading food tour company!
tastyroadtrips.com
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 41
Port Dover Beach
Wet, wild, and wonderful! What better way to spend your summer than to bask in the beauty of the bountiful bodies of water that are in our own backyards. Southern Ontario is home to some of the best lakes, rivers and waterways in all of Canada and they come with some of the most intriguing adventures. From shipwrecks to ancient fossils, if you brave the waves, you just might find your very own treasure! Written by Emmalee Nother
Photography Courtesy Southwest Ontario Tourism swotc.ca
Wild Child
s the mercury rises and the heat of summer reaches its peak, we all crave that cool breeze to wisp the sweat from our brow. When that breeze just isn’t enough, it’s time to take a refreshing dip at the closest beach, brook or barnyard tub! Lucky for us, we live in a luscious land of cool lakes, rocky rivers and wild waterways that can do the trick! From the historic Grand River, that flows through many picturesque small towns, to the sandy shores of Lake Erie where you can pull up an umbrella and chill in the sun or ride the waves, grab your sunscreen and your swimsuit; we’re gettin’ wet! Brant County We’ll start our journey on the mighty Grand River in Brant County. A designated Heritage River since 1994, many of the now bustling towns along its shores were founded by our earliest settlers and indigenous peoples. The ‘Grand’, as it is lovingly called by those who live along its shores, is a peaceful playground for those who love the water. If you find yourself up the river without a paddle in your canoe, chances are the folks at Grand River Rafting can help you out. This family business started in 2006 and welcomes visitors and adventure seekers from all over Ontario and beyond. This outdoor adventure company started out with just 4 rafts and has now blossomed into a full fleet,
hosting over 40,000 people with 53 staff just last year alone. They offer a wide variety of rafting and paddling tours allowing you to truly discover the wilderness and landscape the Grand River has to offer. You can choose between a self-guided journey or if you want to dive deeper into the history of the Grand, there are guides who can offer their boundless knowledge. With warmth and kindness, they treat everyone like they are part of their family while ensuring you enjoy every inch of what the Grand River has to offer! Take a look up the banks of the river and you might catch a glimpse of a natural spring or two - maybe even some ancient native settling grounds. Discovering the history of the Grand River is easy when you visit Five Oaks Education and Retreat Centre, just outside of Paris, Ontario. In true country fashion, you follow a long dirt drive up to the main area of the retreat where it is believed that the Cayuga nation originally resided. A small settlement was built at the conjunction of the Grand River and Whiteman’s Creek, becoming one of the most important and crucial places for trade and ceremonial gatherings. That’s only the tip of the historic past this beautiful area has to share. There are also tales that the property has roots in the Underground Railroad, helping to free those who were trying to escape slavery from our neighbours to the south. It also has a deep history with the United Church of Canada as one of the very few education centres under the umbrella of the World Council of Churche. Presently, where you can camp, hike and enjoy the great outdoors through programs offered by Five Oaks, or as a place to discover on your own. The grounds are home to the Grand River Spiritual and Educational Resource Bookstore where you can learn more about the area and truly immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty Five Oaks as to offer. The banks of the Grand River have a history as rich as the soil on its banks!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 43
Brant’S Blue Canoe! Brant County welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to experience their award-winning culinary delights, specialty boutique shopping and most of all the everlasting beauty of nature. As a premier outdoor adventure haven, on top of everything else Brant has to offer, sometimes little gems and unknown sweet spots can be overlooked. Enter Brant Blue Canoe, the “Blue Ribbon” experience that ensures you get the most out of your time! Look for outfitters across the county that feature the “Blue Canoe” logo, book an experience through them, and collect tokens that will save you money on your next venture in Brant. These experienced outfitters act as guides throughout the area to lead you to the next best place, making sure you don’t miss anything! Tokens are valid until April 30, 2020 so you have plenty of time to go on multiple adventures and find the hidden gems. Visit them online by searching for Brant Blue Canoe and see their full list of participants and how you can get the most bang for your buck while immersing yourself in the unforgettable places located in Brant County!
Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation & Six Nations of the Grand River The Grand River Valley has been home to the indigenous peoples of our area for more than 10,000 years. The Six Nations of the Grand River and the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation both celebrate the wonders and the harvests that the Grand River have given them even to this day. The area’s abundant history is reflected in the watershed’s historic sites and artifacts that are dotted along the winding curves of the river. To celebrate, honour and explore the stunning waters of the Grand as it flows through the Haudenosaunee Native lands, you can take part in an indigenous row: experiencing paddling, sharing traditional meals, discovering campgrounds and taking in teachings of the area. The Two Row on the Grand is indeed a GRAND event, a symbolic enactment of the original Two Row treaty that was put into place 400 years ago. The row takes you from Cambridge to Port Maitland and those who take part will paddle in “two rows” – one indigenous and one in a settle/immigrant row to demonstrate the simple yet magnificent concept of the Two Row Wampum Treaty honouring the teachings that say “to paddle down the river of life on parallel paths, as friends close enough to help each other, but not disrupting each other’s way of life”.
Midtown Kitchen & Coffee Co. in Paris
The multi-day event takes place from July 24 to August 1 this year and includes interactive dancing, sharing circles and a true symbolic renewal of an extraordinary peace treaty that allows participants to build friendships, garner mutual respect and create an increased understanding of each other’s cultures, traditions and time-honoured tales. Continuing on the extraordinary journey of our indigenous peoples, Six Nations Tourism has developed a number of exclusive packages for everyone to discover the traditional lands and waters of the Haudenosaunee. Their “On the Water” package is a glorious three-hour expedition that takes place during the summer months from June to September. You begin your day at Chiefswood Park, located along the banks of the Grand River, where you will meet your canoe guide and start by discussing the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address. From there you will hop in your canoe or kayak and embark on a one-of-a-kind paddling experience filled with cultural history, including their creation story and beliefs, while taking in the stunning lands that surround the river, including the luscious Carolinian forests. This is a great opportunity for those of all ages to learn about one of the most beautiful cultures we have in our own backyard while discovering new wildlife and listening to stories that have shaped the lands we now call home.
Grand River Rafting in Paris
LET’S GET MOBILE!
Haldimand County As we ride the rapids further down the river, inching close and closer to Lake Erie, we travel thorough Haldimand County, sprinkled with some of the hidden gems of waterfront trails. You might blink and miss some of the best hiking areas to catch glimpses of Great Blue Herons, Red Tailed Hawks and one of many rare Bald Eagles who have chosen this area to nest in and call home. Birding is at its peak in this area and if you like scoping out some of the more rare and endangered birds of our area, Caledonia’s Rotary Trail, beginning at Seneca Park, is a top destination. Nestled close to the water, the trail takes you far enough along The Grand to experience the tranquillity of the water while being left completely bewildered by the vast wilderness. It’s the perfect little walk after an early dinner or as an early morning start to your day, leaving you feeling Zen and full of life. The award-winning Cayuga Grand Vista Trail guides pedestrians and cyclists on a scenic loop from the courthouse over the Grand River on the restored CN bridge. It’s another stunning jaunt to take in all the views and natural surroundings of the waterfront area. Great for the whole family, including your furry friends, this trail can be done in a short amount of time, or you can meander and discover at your leisure! As the Grand River opens in to the sparkling waters of Lake Erie, we come across Rock Point Provincial Park which is a special treat for those who like to find treasure! Located on the north shore, right near the mouth of the Grand River,
this area includes wetlands, forests and dunes. Most magical of all, the limestone shelves reveal fossils from the Devonian period of marine animals - many that are extinct today. Located above the fossil beds is a red clay bluff to discover and the sandy beaches below offer some of the best swim spots around. Not too far from where The Grand meets Lake Erie, you can find the quaint little town of Dunnville and its grand mascot, Muddy the Mudcat. This larger-than-life giant fish stands an amazing 27 feet high and stretches 50 feet long. It’s the perfect spot for a selfie or a family fun photo; make sure to make the stop even if it’s just to put a smile on your face! Oxford County We end our water road trip with a county you may not associate with water but which has some of the most picturesque hiking areas around. It’s a hidden treasure trove of water trails that will wet your wildhood and take over your senses to reveal an instant state of serenity. Pittock Conservation Area offers everything you need to cool off and enjoy the summer months. With camping, hiking, swimming and fishing high on the list, this is a one-stop discovery play place with over 250 campsites and 3,500 acres to explore. The vast trail network enables visitors and locals to engage with nature through beautiful waterfront views, stunning forests and some of the best mountain biking paths this side of the Rockies. You will truly feel like you’ve left Ontario and ended up in the depths of the West Coast. With countless
We all enjoy the beach in the summer but those with accessibility differences often have to enjoy the sandy shores from afar, keeping to the paved areas. Thanks to an amazing initiative fronted by the owner of the Beach House restaurant Peter Knechtel, Port Dover’s iconic beach is now fully equipped with mobility mats, allowing those who require a hard surface to wheel their devices a chance to experience the wonders of building sand castles and enjoying the rays of the sun from the sand like everyone else. A fantastic gesture of community and inclusivity, the mats are wide enough for two-way traffic and are removable for the winter months. Helping those who have yearned to get closer to the water’s edge but with little means to do so, these mats were inspired by Peter’s late father who grew up in the area and lived for the Lake but in his later years required assistance that prevented him from sinking his toes into the warm sand without a hard surface. A lasting memory creating new adventures and opportunities for everyone!
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 45
46 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Kayaking at Long Point Eco Adventures in St Williams
Sweet Carolinian
activities during the summer months, you can come for a day and experience their fishing derbies, enchanting night hikes or one of their wellness walks. For 50 years, Pittock has been a prime destination for those who need to escape the hustle and bustle of life. For a treat, don’t forget to check out the W.L. Dickson Arboretum. Dedicated to the memory of W.L. Dickson, this 6-hectare jewel is a product of a group called “The Men of the Trees.” Here you will find approximately 140 labeled native trees and shrubs, many which will surprise you in size, colour and beauty. One cannot help but feel a little like Jane and Tarzan as you wander through the everlasting greenery and get a little lost in the best way possible. Norfolk County As we curve around the shores of Lake Erie, we sail into Norfolk County. With a never-ending amount of parks and beaches, Norfolk County truly is nature’s playground on the South Shore. The waters of Lake Erie have been known to be unforgiving. Some of the most famous fishing stories have come from the many days spent on moody grey waves, just trying to bring in the daily haul of fish for the villages ashore. Unfortunately, macabre storms blow up fast and not all ships have
been lucky enough to escape. This has created a sea of shipwrecks along the lake bottom, and many are discoverable and even reachable without diving gear! Often referred to as the “Gold Coast”, Long Point extends into Lake Erie like a giant finger creating many migrating sandbars, often collecting shipwrecks, with many of the more fascinating wrecks being right off the tip of the point. Long Point has claimed over 400 ships wrecked or sunk with their treasures lost or stolen, thus the moniker “Gold Coast”, one of many names anointing the area over the last few centuries. To explore Lake Erie from Norfolk County, you have many options and the folks at South Coast Watersports have you covered! The small owner-operated company of friends are all about having a great time and sharing what they love on the water. They encourage you to rent one of their paddleboards and explore on your own to laugh, play hard and visit all of the magnificent waters of Lake Erie. Paddleboarding can be one of the most addictive ways to discover the smaller coves and cervices of Lake Erie inlets. Easier than it looks, it’s one of the most relaxing ways to spend a few hours or an entire day. Who knows, you may even buy your board for future adventures!
Taking a moment to take in the beauty surrounding you on your wild, water adventures, you will have the pleasure of basking in the luscious greenery lining the shores. Southern Ontario is fortunate to have the most diverse network of Carolinian forests in the area. Stretching from Toronto to Windsor, this heritage system of flora and fauna is unparallelled in biological richness. At just a mere 1% of Canada’s land mass, Ontario’s Carolinian forests support an estimated 25% of our country’s species that are currently at risk or endangered. Some of the oldest living trees in Ontario can be found in the recently conserved Backus Woods in Norfolk County. It is considered a biodiversity hot-spot and part of the Carolinian Life Zone which extends from the Carolinas in the United States all the way up and through Southwestern Ontario. More than 45 provincially, nationally or globally rare plants and animals can be found in our Carolinian forests, making them one of the highest densities of rare and endangered wildlife in Canada.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 47
Our totally insider, Town-by-town, hidden-gem-by-hidden-gem, guide to what’s new, hot, and legendary in Haldimand County. All the stuff you absolutely must eat, do, buy and indulge in to make the most of your time off the sofa and loving our county! Written & Photographed by Jay Perry
I made it back again! Back to the beautiful county where my amazing Small Town Sundays adventures for Live Small Town Magazine started: the magical area known as the Haldimand County. And during my visit I stumbled upon a somewhat hidden small town that I had not even heard of and I was joined by a giant! Sound fantastical? It really was! My stay-cation started in the very town I had never heard of. Just Southwest of Cayuga in Fisherville, Ontario is the historic and the legendary Fisherville Hotel and Tavern, or “The Tav” as the locals call it, and I was greeted by 48 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
owners Janna and John Overend. The inside was exactly what it I expected from a small-town tavern: apool table, a bar, and room filled with wooden tables. But even before looking at their menu, my first impression was one that made me feel at home. I also was excited to do what I do during all of my Small Town Sundays trips... eat! I don’t know why, but every time I come to Haldimand County, I seem to order pierogi, so why break tradition? I kindly requested their Mini Pierogi: Divine pastry envelopes filled with potatoes and cheddar cheese topped with sautéed onions, bacon and a Jensen cheese blend with a side of onion rings. I wouldn’t say I’m a pierogi expert, but growing up with Ukrainian
grandparents, I would say I know my way around the world of these little beauties. This was the first time I had ever heard of “mini pierogi”. As advertised, my plate arrived with 14 small pierogi, and a side of sour cream. Now, because my Grandmother reads my articles, I can’t say they were better than her homemade ones, but, let’s just say they were quite comparable and she would be very impressed. The Tav was an incredible way to start my journey. It had the exact small-town feel that I was looking for and there was so much more menu to explore, so I will be back! thetav.ca “Hey Grandma, lunch is on me. I need you to try these.” So where do you go next, while
Fisherville Hotel and Tavern
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 49
The Cabin Wellness Clinic in Fisherville
My Lighthouse Cottages in Dunnville 50 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
moving slowly in Fisherville with a belly full of food? The only answer is to literally roll across the street and be pampered at The Cabin Wellness Clinic! I work full-time as a commercial photographer. I sit at a computer for hours, and regularly lift a ton of heavy gear. My back is not in the best shape but this is where individuals like Jessica Doucette can be life savers. Jessica is the proud owner of the Cabin Wellness Clinic. She is an experienced RMT, and was able to provide my aching body with an amazing massage treatment on such short notice. I have had many massages over the years but I felt like Jessica hit spots and tackled some knots that nobody had ever seemed to find. I realize that many people don’t like being touched. I get it! It is kind of awkward when a stranger tells you to get half naked and go under a blanket on a table, but Jessica made me feel incredibly comfortable and even explained why she was doing the certain things she was doing when I asked. Although the intention of her practice is on the clinical side, it definitely doesn’t have a clinical feel. It literally reminded me of being in a cabin! Check out thecabinclinic.ca for all the services they offer. You deserve it! My local adventures always involve a lot of food, great people, and spending the night somewhere spectacular. This time was no different. After such an incredible massage and meal, I decided to head to My Lighthouse Cottages in Port Maitland: a family-run block of attached and newly renovated cottages located on the Grand River at the mouth of Lake Erie. I was also meeting up with a friend who would be staying with me (the giant I mentioned before). Enter my buddy Kyle Andrew - A 6’7” beast of a handsome man who is not only an internationally successful, big and tall menswear model but also a contestant, looking for love, on season one of The Bachelorette Canada. I have been friends with Kyle for many years and asked him to join me
Kyle Andrew on the deck of Grand River Dinner Cruise
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 51
Enjoying the menu on the Grand River Dinner Cruise
on this trip but our cottage only had one bedroom and a pull out futon couch, so naturally, the good friend that I am, I gave him the bed, so that his legs would only hang off a bit... No time to rest, we headed to Caledonia to hop on the famous Grand River Dinner Cruise. I had heard of this cruise growing up but had never had the chance to experience it. We were directed to the Grand River Queen and steering the vessel was Captain Ivor. I’m no boat expert but the ship reminded me of a giant pontoon boat. The middle housed a covered diningroom surrounded by windows and the outside sported a row of chairs and rail to enjoy the Grand River scenery in between courses. The meal started with a loaf of bread followed by the main course. Kyle had the beef while I had the chicken dinner, a tender chicken breast with vegetables and mashed potatoes. Dinner was followed by a delicious piece of cake. Kyle and I enjoyed a beer while sitting outside, enjoying the view as we sailed down the river. Captain Ivor was not only our captain, but was the tour guide talking over the loud speaker. This family-friendly experience was educational, scenic, fun and the food was amazing. The staff were all accommodating and it 52 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
is clear to me now why we needed to reserve our spots on the cruise in advance. grandrivercruises.ca It was about 9:30pm when Kyle and I made it back to our cottage and what are two guys to do in the Dunnville area on a Friday night? The same thing I did the last time I was in town. We made our way over to the Queens Merritt Room Pub for a few late night beers. It was just as I had remembered it — sitting at the bar, throwing back some pints, and chatting with the locals. Somehow they could tell we weren’t from town. Maybe it was our new faces or the fact that they would definitely remember a 6’7” giant strolling down the streets of Dunnville. But regardless, we had some amazing conversations with the staff and patrons. It was definitely the Friday night hot spot in town. Morning quickly came and I must say that I had a fantastic sleep. Maybe it was the couple pints but most likely it was the incredibly comfy futon that I slept on paired with the worlds softest pillow. I was so impressed that I took a photo of the pillow tag so I could order my own when I got home. Kyle also commented on how comfortable his bed was. Our stay at My Lighthouse Cottages was exactly what I was looking for. The place was spotless, it had a full kitchen, massive
shower, and a great location to spend the night. I need to go back when it’s a bit warmer out so I can take advantage of the Muskoka chairs that sat outside our door with a great view of the water. Visit mylighthousecottages.ca and book today! If you have been following along with my article since day one, then you know it all started with me trying to finish a massive burger at Julia’s Bistro in Dunnville. I was so impressed with not only the food, but the kindness and dedication to their business that I witnessed from owners Julia and Paul, that I wanted to come back one day. This was that day. Kyle and I decided that Julia’s Bistro was to be our morning breakfast spot. Shortly after sitting down, Paul approached and said that some ladies recognized Kyle from the Bachelorette and wanted to know if they could take a photo with him. So here we were, 10am in a breakfast spot, and Kyle had his arms wrapped around three lovely ladies, all smiling from ear to ear, and I found myself using their cell phone to snap the image. So, basically a typical morning for Kyle. I ordered Julia’s Grand Breakfast which comes with one pancake, two eggs, three pieces of bacon, three sausages, home fries and toast. I would eat breakfast for every meal throughout the day, if it tasted like Julia’s.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 53
Julia’s Bistro and Catering in Dunnville 54 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Killman Zoo
It was a pleasure to be back at Julia’s and this time for breakfast. I can’t stress this enough... if you are in the Dunnville area, make it a priority to stop in for breakfast or lunch or dinner and please say hi to Julia for me. We headed back home for the night and the following day I picked up two little travel buddies. My niece Lauren and nephew Hayden were excited to join me to visit the Killman Zoo in Caledonia. It was like walking through the jungle with massive cats only a couple feet away from you. I
have never been this close to lions and tigers and seeing the sheer size of them this close was quite an experience. My niece and nephew were both excited since this was their very first zoo visit. We made sure to go on a Sunday afternoon because at 3 pm they feed the cats. We saw lions, tigers, cougars, wolves, coyotes, parrots, bald eagles, deer, and so much more. There is also an option to purchase food and feed it to some of the animals yourself. I can’t believe how close I live to this local zoo and massive animals but
I’ve never been to see them. Killman Zoo is an experience for everyone and extremely family oriented. Everybody who worked there was friendly and knowledgeable about the animals. It’s the perfect afternoon trip to take this summer. thekillmanzoo.com This concluded my weekend trekking through the Haldimand County. There are so many hidden gems that I keep stumbling upon and the smalltown vibe continues to draw me back. Who knew that I could find so many new places to explore this close to my front door? Thank you to everyone who made this weekend possible and I hope to see you all again soon. I would also love to hear from you about your favourite hidden gems in Southwestern Ontario.
If you enjoyed this piece and wish to see live videos while I’m adventuring into these small towns, then follow me on Instagram at @jayperry for behind the scenes look at what is going on. But more importantly, where should I head to next?
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 55
Deep Roots
If you are interested in purchasing this book for $25 call 905-510-7756 or email martin@martinlovephotography.ca
Living History
With the fast pace of our lives seeming to accelerate at every turn, we should all take a moment to reflect on the numerous stories, places, memories and people that have truly made Southwestern Ontario one of the greatest places on earth. Each of our communities, counties and towns have contributed their own unique piece to the tapestry that can collectively be called Canada; and there is no better way to chart a course towards the future, than by glancing back to honour the past.
Photo by MARTIN LOVE MartinLovePhotography.ca
In November of 2011, writer Casandra Bellefuille and designer/photographer Martin Love started collaberating to produce 1812 Pictorial Trails: 200th Anniversary and in less than a year it was published. It is a unique perspective of a war that redefined British North America and forged a climacteric path to confederacy. The book consists of an array of amazing stories and staged reenactment photos. Pictured here from front to back is David Morris, Roy Winders, Mike Jansen, Grant Jackson and Michael McAndrews. Each one is committed to historical reenactment by bringing history to life.
CRUiSing Dover’s COAST
POrt Dover hunkers down to welcome thousands of bike lovers to their 2019 Friday the 13th festivities BY kerstein mallon What happens when a group of people with a common interest get together? Comradery! A band, a posse, a group is formed and usually, folks with a keen interest in the same thing, decide to set a date to meet up and share their dedication. From gardeners to cooking enthusiasts, classic cars to motorcycles fans, each individual brings an affinity, a passion for their unique style. When that enthusiasm is joined with like-minded people, the outcome is a successful event. Port Dover’s annual Friday the 13th continues
to fracture the borders of society’s expectations for events for its kind, perpetually etched by a group of dedicated friends, who shared a passion for motorcycles and music. On November 13th, 1981 local motorcycle fanatic Chris Simons and approximately 25 of his closest friends got together at the Zoo (Angelos) in Port Dover. They had such a great time, they decided they should do it every Friday the 13th. And simply put, a tradition was born. It’s about the passion; it’s about the ride. They
created something spectacular. This annual parade of motorcycle zeal has become an unsurpassed occasion, Canada wide. Every Friday the 13th since, the number of people attending the event has increased. Last year the event held on July 13th welcomed over 140,000 riders. An epic number of visitors for Norfolk County and graciously welcomed by local residents of an otherwise modest fishing town. Every year, the streets of the little beach town by Lake Erie are swarming with thousands of bikes. Port Dover’s monster twowheel party is a prime destination for crowds of motorcycles and riders looking for distractions of every imaginable kind. There’s something for everyone. The event has grown to include outdoor concerts and delicious food trucks. Vendors selling leather and lace, parts and pieces and everything imaginable for the motorcycle fanatic. For almost 40 years, bikers and bike fans have come together in Port Dover on
every Friday the 13th to share their passion for the open road. Everyone gathers to check out the bikes, enjoy the beach, eat great food and have a good time. The event is supported by the community and for a long time, the Kinsmen Club of Port Dover has been helping the legend to grow. They offer camping with hot showers. And best of all, the proceeds from the events go back into the community. Donations are given to Kinsmen Club, Cystic Fibrosis and other local charities. There is parking available with shuttles running in and out of town from Friday morning into early Saturday morning. The whole experience is a thrilling adventure. The roar of the engines, the smell the leather, the smiles on people faces. It’s a taste of freedom, an awakening. This party should definitely make your bucket list. Year after year, for obvious reasons, people just keep coming back. Come see for yourself by marking September and December 13th, 2019 on your calendar. You won’t be disappointed.
Novemeber 1981
1990s
June 2008
2016 Census
September 2019
Chris Simon suggests a few folks come by the old Commercial Hotel, and have a party. Approx 25 show!
By the 1990s, thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts began making their pilgrimages to this little town.
An estimated 150,000 bikers, spectators and almost 12,000 motorcycles showed up in Port Dover.
The second largest of the Communities in Norfolk County, Port Dover had a population of just 6,161.
Everyone is hopeful that Hamilton’s Paul Nurmi 70, (Thong Man) will be returning after his 2018 bike accident.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 57
Aging Gracefully
Top L-R Siblings G.F. Devlin, Jim Devlin; John Devlin, Robert Devlin. Bottom row, Elizabeth (Phelps) Devlin, Hugh Devlin, William Devlin; Sarah Devlin. c. 1870
In this fast-paced age of instant gratification, it’s often easy to overlook and under appreciate the value of a hard day’s work. Sometimes the best results come from patience, process and purpose; after all, good things come to those who wait. BY Tim Zwart
Please feel free to reach out and let us know about other special folks, businesses, and organizations that are aging gracefully within your community!
History is all around us, and sometimes it pops up in some of the most unlikely of places. Have you ever been in your favourite local spot, looked around at the charming atmosphere surrounding you and thought to yourself: I wonder how long they’ve been here? As a writer and history buff, stumbling across a great story can be exhilarating. But sharing that story, conveying the emotions I felt and invoking them in others, is where the real excitement and sense of satisfaction lies. The following are three of my favourite examples for the latest instalment of our Aging Gracefully series. Devlin’s Country Bistro and Catering
Mount Pleasant devlinscountrybistro.com One of the coolest things about history is its ability to tell stories and mentally transport us to longsince-passed times, ways of living and traditions. But sometimes, if we’re truly lucky, we are able to both learn about and actively live history simultaneously. And such is now the case within the
58 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
confines of Devlin’s Country Bistro, a living time capsule of history at 704 Mount Pleasant Road. Opened in 1990 by Chef Chris Devlin, the bistro was a dream realized for the lifetime restaurateur. His passion for food began at a young age, and quickly developed as he rose the ranks of the culinary ladder, beginning with bussing tables and washing dishes and ending up in the kitchen. Chris apprenticed and learned techniques and skills all over North America, and the end result at Devlin’s is truly a treat for all the senses. What makes this experience unique is the combination of historical setting and fine cuisine all coming together full circle. The Devlin family has been calling the property home for over 125 years, and the love for food and family comes through in every bite and step. And with the addition of a catering service and fully functional kitchen on wheels, you can be part of that history no matter where you are! Join the Devlin family in keeping the longevity of community alive and well in Mount Pleasant.
Experiential Six Nations Packages
sixnationstourism.ca It is often said that not learning from history makes one doomed to repeat it, that the only way we can ever go forward in life is to learn from the mistakes of our past. Education is perhaps the greatest tool we have at our collective disposal, available free of charge to any inquiring mind that seeks it. The best place to learn any subject is to start at the beginning, and if local history interests you, your search should begin with its first inhabitants: those of the Six Nations. Since the dawn of civilized man, these local tribes have considered themselves the caretakers of the land many of us now call home, and have continued to maintain its beauty, landscape and history to this day. A visit to these lands is truly awe-inspiring, and gives one a perspective of human civilization at its original, uncorrupted form. These six nations—Onondaga, Cayuga, Mohawk, Oneida, Seneca and Tuscarora—all collectively merged to form the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the only place in North America where such a union took place. Tour the areas and visit authentic “longhouses”, traditional structures where up to 20 families lived and cared for one another; take part in one of several experience packages or tours, all designed to introduce you to the history of a land and people integral to both our past and present as a nation. City of Woodstock
Oxford County cityofwoodstock.ca Mention the name Woodstock and some iconic images come to mind: massive fields in upstate New York filled with hippies, live music by some of the best bands who ever lived, war protests and the like. And while the greatest rock concert the world has ever known may not have taken place in Canada, the history, legacy and lore associated with Woodstock, ON is arguably no less iconic. Home to current Toronto Maple Leaf Jake Muzzin, the town of Woodstock has an incredibly rich history since its establishment in 1721. It was home to perhaps the trial of the 19th century (that of Reginald Birchall in 1890), had numerous ties to the Underground Railroad, has survived tornadoes, fires and floods, and is one of the few towns in the province to have maintained all of its original administration buildings since its inception. Known as the “Friendly City” and the dairy capital of Canada, the town has since transformed into a city, providing a perfect blend of Victorian ambiance and modern amenities. Home to a campus of Fanshawe College, the Woodstock Museum (a national historic site), and a large state-of-the-art community centre, the area truly boasts something of interest for both locals and tourists alike. A modern city built atop a historical foundation, Woodstock is a great example of living small town. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 59
FEMALE frontier superhero
The Great Potato Famine (1846-1851) encouraged many Irish to immigrate and settle in Canada. Most chose Ontario. Newly married Kitty and Charles McCarthy crossed the sea and quickly began making a life and family in Haldimand County.
Wife, Mother, Change maker, Adelaide Hoodless had left her mark so that others could too BY Tim Zwart For any balanced and healthy individual to grow and thrive, they need proper role models. These are typically those who have been where they are, have made mistakes and learned from them, and who sacrificed of themselves for others to succeed. As part of our cultural and native history growing up, we are often taught about the achievements and accomplishments of great men—explorers, inventors, military leaders and diplomats—whose hard work and dedication laid the foundation for what Canada has ultimately become. No doubt these men played a vital role in the building of a nation; but how many influential women can you name? How many are revered and taught about in our schools? Why are their stories not more mainstream and emphasized? As the father of a young
daughter, the concept of women’s empowerment is very dear to me. I tell her that she can be anything she wants when she grows up, that she should follow her heart, and that with enough hard work and perseverance, no boundaries are strong enough to stand in her way. She will be 7 in October, and often asks me why there aren’t more female superheroes or why only boys play football. Searching for female role models in a male-dominated world can sometimes be difficult, so when a good one is discovered, I make sure she knows about her! Enter, Adelaide Hoodless. Hoodless and capeless, this early frontier superhero paved the way for a generation of women to become active in their communities and further their education. Her story begins in tragedy, taking the devastating loss of
60 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
a 14-month old son and turning it into a strength that has lasted generations. She worked tirelessly in the aftermath, advocating for an increased level of education for girls, for additional rights, and even wrote a book stressing the importance of hygiene and cleanliness in the home. “Addie”, as she was known, also became the 2nd President of the YWCA, and is credited with its expansion to national prominence in the late 1890s. But perhaps her biggest living legacy is that of founding the Women’s Institute in 1897, enabling women of all different ethic and racial backgrounds to come together and discuss social ills, educate one another, troubleshoot their
communities, and support each other through child rearing and home responsibilities. This very institute is now global—with over 300 branches currently operating in Ontario alone—and is solely responsible for the upkeep and preservation of the Hoodless Homestead, located in St. George, ON. Open by appointment only, this charming estate is a great place to bring the next generation of girls and boys alike, with knowledgeable guides on site to provide a glimpse into Victorian-era life. Keep the spirit of Addie alive by experiencing the way in which she lived, all while quite literally walking in the footsteps of a true Canadian heroine.
Let’s be friends! We are not a registered charity; we are a community of friends working together to restore the magic of Christmas for families in need and over the last 8 years we have raised $148,146.22 and provided 2100+ children with positive Christmas memories!
friendswithhearts.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 61
Heirlooms & Antiques Looking to spend a day antique or vintage hunting? Need to find that perfect period piece to enhance your home or wardrobe? Looking for some retro tunes or previously enjoyed gems? Take a drive down our country roads, stopping at flea markets and local shops to search for treasures then pop into one of our quaint eateries for some local fare... Alfred Street Nostalgia
97 Alfred St, Brantford Anderson Auctions
7 Clonmel Ln, Port Dover www.jimandersonauctions.com Artiques Hagersville
23 Main St, N, Hagersville Bird & Bee Vintage Rental Co. at Wincey MIlls
31 Mechanic St, Paris birdandbeevintage.com Caledonia Furniture Finds
127 Argyle St, S, Unit #5 caledoniafurniturefinds.com Caresa Antiques
161th Paris Fair August 29 - September 2, 2019
1182 Windham Rd 9, Windham Centre Cattail Cove Interiors
1012 Bay St #4, Port Rowan Cheap Shabby Chic
148 Queen St, Dunnville
3 nights of Demolition Derby, Monster Truck Show, rides and Sunday’s concert featuring Granger Smith. Freestyle Motocross, Crazy Crew BMX show, livestock shows, craft and hobby exhibits, Little Ray’s Reptile Zoo featuring their walking dinosaur and so much more! Buy your tickets online at ticketscene.ca/parisfair Order before Aug 15th for reduced prices Sunday is Family Day – buy a family pass for 4
Christie Antique and Vintage Show
1000 ON-5, Dundas christieshow.ca CJ’s Antiques & Refinishing
4080 Hwy. 24, Vanessa cjsantiques.ca Classic Vault Emporium
12 Main St, S, St George Collectors Centre
46 Colborne St, Brantford collectors-centre.business.site Colonel Mustard Antiques
7014 Hamilton Rd, Putnam Country Corner Antiques
3067 ON-3, Simcoe Courtland Treasures Antiques and Emporium
parisfair.com
682 James St, Delhi Covey Coin & Supply Centre
92 Simcoe St, Tillsonburg 62 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Crossroads Antique Market
receive 10% off of the manufacturer’s cost for each hearing aid purchased. This offer expires Sept. 30, 2019
1146 Colborne St E, Brantford Deer Creek Antiques & Creations
1703 Norfolk County Rd 45, Langton Flyers Cafe & Bakery (some antiques)
144 Queen St, Dunnville Forch’s Record Store
59 Dalhousie St, Brantford forchsrecordstore.ca Franni’s Attic
1011 Bay St, Port Rowan Grand River Antiques
1540 East, Hwy 54, Caledonia grandriverantiques.com Grand River Antique Society
Cayuga grandriverantiquesociety. yolasite.com Grand River Flea Market
261 Hespeler Rd, Cambridge grandriverfleamarket.com
There are some sounds you wouldn’t miss for the world. So don’t! If you think you or someone you love could hear better, but you are unsure of how to take that first step toward better hearing, Acoustic Hearing Centre can help. We offer free hearing assessments and prescribe hearing aids that promote improved communication. No referral needed. Call for an appointment.
Green Spot Antiques
49 Cedar St, Cambridge Haldimand House Marketplace
22 Argyle St, S, Caledonia haldimandhouse.com Henry Dobson Antiques Inc
We listen, you hear 525 Colborne ST, branTford, 519-770-3555
acoustichearing.ca
955781 Gibson Ln, Drumbo The Kilted Moose
57 Talbot St, W, Aylmer Main Station Collectables & Pawn Shop
28 Alice St, Waterford Maus Park Antiques
289 Pinehurst Rd, Paris mausparkantiques.ca Miller & Miller Auctions
59 Webster St, New Hamburg millerandmillerauctions.com Mizener’s Antiques & More Market
367 ON-5, Dundas antiquesandmoremarket.com Modern Hipster Antiques
70 Thames St S, Ingersoll modernhipster.com
Prepare to be pampered by this unique salon experience, perfectly located in rural Norfolk County. Surrounded by rolling country fields, you will quickly become nestled in a relaxing and elevated salon experience that promotes quality self-care.
Needful Things Pawn shop
75 Broadway, Tillsonburg Nice Old Stuff
2037 Main St, N, Jarvis niceoldstuff.ca Old Country Store
80 Alice St, Waterford Old Town Hall Auctions
5113 Hwy 3, Simcoe
13 Burwell St, Paris oldtownhallauctions.com
blueharvestsalon.ca
One of a Kind Antiques & Collectibles
97 Wilson St, Woodstock oneofakindantiquemall.com
308 Grand River St N, Paris • petvalu.com
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 63
Orange Cat Antiques
200 Brant Ave, Brantford Paris Road Antiques
548 Paris Rd, Paris parisroadantiques.blogspot.com Pickers Antiques Warehouse
Inside C- Squared Menswear 334 Main St, Port Dover & 1049 Bay St, Port Rowan (opening June 1st) + Crossroads Trading Post & Flea Market 1146 Colborne St, E, Brantford Queensway Antiques
88 Queensway W, Simcoe
Catherine Lillywhite
Tattered and Torn
903 Haldibrook Rd, Caledonia etsy.com/ca/shop/TatteredanTorn
NEW CL baby line!! Grace & Lace Parsley & Sage Artizan Pinkstix purses Jacqueline Kent Papillon
Southworks Antiques
73 Water St, N, Cambridge southworksantiques.com The Back Shed Antiques & Primitive Crafts
GorGEoUS décor!!
Turning up the heat! 1407 Hwy 59, Port rowan 519.586.3817
2388 Highway 3 E, Jarvis thebackshed.ca The Fox and Fawn Antiques
93 Broadway, Tillsonburg foxandfawnshoppe.com The Freelton Antique Mall
248 Freelton Rd, Freelton freeltonantiquemall.com
KND
Ltd
THVEN PARK DISCOVER RU
automotive
The Henhouse Shoppe
163719 Brownsville Rd, Brownsville The Yellow Farmhouse
697 Stoney Creek Rd, Caledonia Tillsonburg Antiques Plus
6 Old Vienna Rd, Tillsonburg Time Capsule Antiques & Retro Nostalgia
, trails, mily fun, nature History, tours, fa
Lube + Oil + Filter + Fluid Levels + Tires Computer Scanning Engine Control System MTO Safety Inspections for Cars and Single Axel Pickup Trucks Engine Tuneups & Cooling Systems Tire Repairs & Balancing Durashield Dripless Rustproofing Brakes • Suspension • Air Conditioning
168 Queen St, Dunnville timecapsuleretro.blogspot.ca Towpath On The Grand Antiques & Collectibles & The Blacksmith Garden Shop
14 Talbot St W, Cayuga towpathonthegrand.com Toys ‘n Stock
e rental + so much workshops, venu
676888 16 Line, Tavistock
more.
Unique Boutique Gifts Antiques
Alice St, Waterford Walpole Antique Farm Machinery Association
2041 ON-6, Jarvis wafma.ca
243 Haldimand Hwy 54, Cayuga 905-772-0560 ruthvenparknationalhistoricsite.com 64 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Years Young! 199 King Edward St. PariS 519-442-7110
Waterford Antique Market
80 B Alice St, Waterford waterfordantiquemarket.com Webster R Antiques
1146 Colborne St, E, Brantford
MARC DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY
marcdouglas.ca
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 65
Arts & CULTURE
Inspiring Minds
Arts and culture are an important resource in our path to building stronger connections with the present and the past, serving to document and preserve stories and ensure that history is shared. They beautify public spaces, help forge relationships where there is diversity and become stewards of strength in community. At Live Small Town, we love to promote local participation and bonds. We believe one of the best ways to engage is through the arts.
Photo by Megan Vincent Photography meganvincent.com
Marissa Kate Wilson Playful Fox Productions This versatile local performer is an actor, singer, princess, and theatre company owner. A screen actor by profession, she has appeared in the TV series American Gods, Odd Squad, CBC’s Canada: The Story of Us and has a recurring role as OfZachary’s Partner in The Handmaid’s Tale. She recently performed the title role in Playful Fox Productions adaptation of Peter Pan by Malakai Fox, based on J.M. Barrie’s original story. This is just the beginning though, because of Wilson’s talent, she is sure to be seen much more in the near future. You may have also seen her as a princess with The Glass Slipper Company at events in the area, using her many talents to bring “magic to life one child at a time”. Wilson’s experience as a performer aids her in spreading joy throughout Brant County. As half of Playful Fox Productions and the resident musical director, Wilson has put together performances throughout Brantford and the surrounding area. Recently, Disney’s The Little Mermaid in Paris, ON. The company brings together local talent and creates productions that excite and entertain. As the musical director, Wilson uses her music training and singing savvy to craft lively musical numbers.
The Skin & Bones of a Home Town
A life-long traveler, in search of the person, a place or thing called home. BY Jules Torti Our hometowns are indelibly engraved in our skin and bones. Stories sit visibly at the tell-tale surface in stitches and scars from bike wipeouts and raw rides down abrasive tree trunks to avoid a sibling’s slingshot. Those halcyon days are like a shiny time capsule— and this capsule is instantly reopened when I see a kestrel on the hydro line, catch a whiff of pig manure or the sweet unmistakable smell
of tobacco curing in the kilns. The spring peepers that emerge in late April call me back to my grandmother’s duckweed-dotted pond where I caught pollywogs with nets fashioned out of her nylons and an old wire hanger like it was my full-time job. I grew up on a road named after my great-grandparents on the tobacco-field fringed edge of Mount Pleasant, three corn fields behind the
Sunset Drive-in. We were related to everyone on our road which made for easy impromptu games of Hide n’ go Seek and Kool-Aid refuel stops at a relative’s house every 200 feet or so. My siblings and I had permanently purple-stained grins. I shouldn’t be surprised that these scabs and stitches resurfaced. This rushing undercurrent of home, that runs beneath all of our feet became the very guts of my memoir, Free to a Good Home: With Room For Improvement. I’ve changed postal codes and provinces a few times, but it’s that red brick ranch at RR#2 that was the foundation of it all. Home. It’s a universal search and sometimes home is a person, a place—or more often, a thing. I’ve lived at the tail end of the Grand River in Dunnville and then moved upstream to a
155-year-old stone cottage in Galt. It was that same mighty, serpentine river and that undercurrent of home, running fast and furious, like lifeblood. I find myself on the 45th parallel now, in Lion’s Head, Ontario. And still---on the first sun-soaked day of summer I am transported back to a sticky ride in the back of my dad’s Cutlass Supreme to Dover. I think of salty handfuls of Picard’s red-skinned peanuts and the blur of dwarfed apple trees and ginseng fields along Highway 24. I think of my hometown, here. And there.
Jules Torti is the author of Free to a Good Home: With Room For Improvement (Caitlin Press). She is the editor-inchief of Harrowsmith magazine and writes about the best things in life (birds, burgers, beaches, beer: in no particular order) for Cottage Life, FASHION, realtor.ca’s Living Room and Grand magazine. Torti has been published in The Vancouver Sun, The Globe and Mail, Massage Therapy Canada and Coast Mountain Culture magazine. In other lives she has made breakfast for 26 chimpanzees in the Congo and illustrated colouring books for the Jane Goodall Institute and the Dian Fossey Foundation. Her next book is under construction and will retrace Torti’s experience walking the Camino de Santiago from St. Jean-Pied-de-Port, France to Finisterre (“The End of the World”), Spain. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 67
The Paris Wincey Mills Co. based painting with fellow artists Paul Cheney and Francine Tausney chatting by local artist Amy Walsh-Harris that showcases many of the artists that Brant County and the surrounding area offer. Be sure to see many of the artists below at the annual Brant Studio Tour this coming September 28 & 29 brantstudiotour.ca
Portrait of an Artist
They help us negotiate connections between ourselves and the world. Making us think more deeply, strive more intently, feel joy more profoundly and bring meaning and purpose to humanity. These are the artists behind the art. BRANT COUNTY area ARTISTS & Crafters 1 Paul Cheney paulcheney.ca 2 Francine Tausney Photography 3 Holly O hollyo.ca 4 Firewood Imaginations - Greg Humphreys 5 Kristine Macgregor kristinemacgregor-kmdesign.com 6 Ralph Heather ralphheather.com 7 Aliki Mikulich alikimikulich.com 8 Cindy Rampone overthecliff.ca 9 Karen Wettlaufer facebook.com/pg/foundstudioparis 10 Pamela Watkins 11 Rachelle Laurin 12 Kari Raymer Bishop sweetendeavours.com 13 Sue Cunningham radiantsilk.com 14 Susan Jones 15 Kim Kurez - Kreations By Kimberly 16 Kim Defrancesco kdifrancesco.com 17 Heather Davidson 18 John Bonifacio 68 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Amy Walsh-Harris
Paris (Toronto Expat) 4amywalshharris.com
Painting photographed by Francine Tausney
I have recently moved to Paris Ontario about 9 months ago. I am originally from Toronto. I have sketched most of my life; however, it was in my twenties when I had decided I wanted to make a living from my art. It took many years of practice and focus just to figure out what my style and medium would be. There were many years when I was not good enough to make it into Gallery shows. However I kept practicing until I felt I was ready to show my work. I found that using social media, markets and shows have been key to selling my work. I love to paint what I see around me everyday. I work with oil on canvas or wood using vibrant colours and light to really make a painting come to life.
facebook.com/pg/blackbirdandtwine 19 Marsha Deans Edgar marsha.ca 20 Wayne Wilkinson 21 StonePath Pottery by Sarah facebook.com/stonepathpotterybysarah 22 Ron Rose facebook.com/Ron-Rose-Furniture-342954462577535 23 Jennifer Budd woolscapes.com 24 Jeanette Obbink obbink.ca 25 Barbara Dzsudzsak facebook.com/Pottery-on-Seven-303214803202906 26 Sue Cornell passionatepotter.com 27 Dianna Speakerman 28 Arlene Laskey arlenelaskey.com 29 Marguerite Larmand facebook.com/marguerite.larmand 30 Vicki Easton Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 69
Ingrid vanReenen
Cayuga ingridvanreenen.com If you have stumbled across my artwork, it is likely that you have a love for animals, as I do. My pets are not my whole life, but they make my life whole. It is because of this that I have developed a passion for creating lasting memories of beloved pets. I live in the country outside of the small town of Cayuga and have had a love of animals for as long as I can remember. I have always understood the important role that pets play in our lives and love being able to share my love of animals through my art work. After studying Math and Science in University, followed by a degree in Education, I began dabbling in photography and later drawing in soft pastel and pastel pencil. I enjoy looking for the small details that make each pet unique and conveying those in my work.
Kate Innes
Woodstock Discovering the versatility of acrylic paints was a turning point for me. Up until then I had just dabbled in a variety of artistic pursuits. Frankly, I lack the patience to work in other mediums; acrylics allows for a spontaneity that appeals to me. You could also call me a bit of a “sky junky”. My husband is a farmer near Woodstock and we have a cottage so I find inspiration in the open fields and crazy stormy skies over Lake Erie! My epiphany came after taking a course in New York which focused on a looser way to paint. It’s what I refer to as “commando painting”. I mix up interesting colour combina-
tions and then get in and work quickly which results in a more exciting painting with lots of movement. I often end up layering the colours and wiping off which can create some interesting texture. My “fantasy” florals involve more brushwork and I enjoy going back and forth between the two. I share my love of painting through workshops in the area and many of my paintings have been licensed by companies in the U.S. and are sold as reproductions through major retailers in North America and Europe. My work is available through the Oxford Studio Tour the first weekend in May or connect on Instagram @kinnesart
70 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
On the Map
Makers Market Our local art scene is bursting with talent. Here are just a few, sharing knowledge & resources to enhance community culture. BY NANCY HOWDEN-COWELL Cayuga Secondary School Selkirk A big shot out to the grade 11 students of Cayuga Secondary School who, with the help of their teacher Rossilind Lammens, raised $1280 at an art auction for the Haldimand Museums. It began with them researching a modern artist of their choice and choosing an old chair as their unconventional canvas that was then transformed into a fabulous fun work of art depicting the style of their chosen artist.
Blackbird & Twine Burford Science meets art in John Bonifacio’s studio where spectacular pieces are created! Using 10,000 volts of electricity to burn the designs into reclaimed wood, John can control the work to a certain degree but most of the time, the elements take charge. His art may start with something called fractal burning, but the end result is how he interprets and brings to life the art hidden within the designs.
BRANTFORD
H
AL
DI
MAN
D COUN
TY
LAKE ERIE
Cottage North Soapworks Port Dover cottagenorthsoapworks.com Open the old wooden screen door to this lovely shop and treat your senses to the beauty of natural scents and one-of-a-kind finds. All the soaps are handcrafted with natural, high quality ingredients. Whether you are looking for a gift for a loved one or to treat yourself to a well-deserved indulgence to make yourself feel as special, you will find it here
Elizabeth Doxtater Everything Corn Husk Ohsweken Author, painter and sculptor Elizabeth Doxtater of Six Nations has been working in the ancient art of cornhusking since she was a child. With her exquisite needle work and the sculpting of her breathtaking dioramas that depict the time of The Great Peace, she seeks through her art to understand more fully the ancient wisdoms and teachings that the Peacemaker shared on his journey.
Hidden Creek Studios Delhi hiddencreekstudios.com Nothing is too sacred in Heather Domke‘s Hidden Creek Studio that it could not end up in one of her fantastic collages. Her commission pieces can weave a story through art to commemorate the life of a loved one with old photos, letters and jewelry, creating a one of a kind piece. Take a class from Heather at her studio and learn how to give new life to forgotten and found items.
Oxwood Rughookers Woodstock It is evident that the ladies from the Oxwood Hooking Artisans of Woodstock are hooked on their favourite pastime. They share their love for hooking and their knowledge with great joy and enthusiasm and this makes taking one of their classes quite enjoyable as well as informative. Once you too are hooked, you can join the guild and learn more from other members at the monthly meetings.
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 71
celebrate Diversity Brantford’s International Villages Fest is a vibrant four-day celebration that Explores our unique multicultural diversity
Movie Madness Dust off your lawn chairs and head out for a family-oriented movie night in your community. BY Adrianna Michell Dusk doesn’t have to mean time to head indoors. Warm weather means endless evening activities for the whole family, yet the busy summer days can leave little energy for nighttime festivities. Settling down for a movie with family and community offers a happy medium between stay-home relaxation and a sunset adventure. Movie nights across the county are cropping up, with a local favourite
being the movies in the park put on in Dunnville annually. Throughout July and August, movies are screened in Central Park at dusk, with all proceeds from the event going to the annual Mudcat Festival, another beloved annual event. Admission is free and film-goers are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Another free event, community members might be surprised to find li-
braries often host movie nights. Support your local library by checking out movie nights offered by the Norfolk youth council in your county’s branch. Bring your pillow and enjoy some snacks at this free, indoor event or check out the historic Strand theatre in Simcoe. Showing blockbusters and lesser-known films for decades, the cinema has a strong line up of recent releases, while also introducing TIFF films to eager audiences. Weekly discount movie nights continue throughout the summer months with films for kids and adults alike. Bring some cash and check out this local treasure!
Movie Nights 1 Gathering Place by the Grand - Mondays at 7 pm, Ohsweken, gatheringplacebythegrand.ca 2 Harmony Square - Thursday, July 7 to September 1 at dusk, Brantford 3 Brant County Movie Nights, various locations, brant.ca 4 Caledonia BIA presents “Family Fun & Movie Night” Friday, July 12, Lawn Bowling greens at Edinburgh Square and Woodstock Riverside Revival, Friday, August 16, Caledonia Fairgrounds 5 Movie Under The Stars, Wednesdays at dusk in July and August, Central Park , Dunnville 72 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
The first weekend of July brings together a variety of cultures transforming Brantford into an international bazaar full of life. With a $10 passport visitors can travel the world through 17 villages, showcasing world-class entertainment from China to Latin America and everywhere in between. This illuminating local festival began in 1974 as the 100th anniversary of the invention of the telephone but has evolved into a vibrant cultural excursion that has endured for 46 years. As the oldest festival in the city, visitors can expect historical sites, cultural performances, unique cuisines, and intricate handicrafts. Whether dropping in to Atlantic Village to experience the distinct maritime lifestyle, or visiting the friendly folk performers at the Chinese Village, a free shuttle takes participants around the world over 4 days of fun. The displays of culture and history are a treat that only the City of Brantford can provide with its commitment to awareness, education, and civic pride. AM
From tree to table
Come with us, again and again, as we explore the wonder of being a tourist in our own backyard! BY Sandy Marincic
Photos by Sandy Marincic
Experiential Tourism is for people who scoff at limitations or have a bestbefore-date. Folks whose eyes aren’t eternally glued to screens and whose feet are happiest when moving. If this sounds like you, and you are also about the journey, and not so much a tropical destination, Experiential Tourism might be the gig for you, and it’s truly just outside your doorstep. These kinds of adventures abound in small-town Ontario, and my day with Dave Schonberg of Ottercreek Woodworks, just outside Tillsonburg, was a great example. Dave Schonberg is a wood craftsman and licensed carpenter. His connection with nature is like a river, and he’d love to guide you through a beautiful Carolinian Forest, then through the creation of your own live-edge charcuterie board in his artisanal workshop. That means choosing from
a ridiculously beautiful assortment of woods, then creating a design. Tip 1: This is much harder than it sounds. I was the first of six to arrive, followed by Andrew and Karen from Petrolia, Lorne from Mount Forest, and Kevin and Johannah from Toronto. After introductions, Dave led us all into the woods wearing orange armbands as it was hunting season! This guided tour opened our eyes to the symbiotic world of trees and was a welcomed treat, as was the delicious stinging nettle, mint tea that we actually made while out on our forest foray. Afterwards we returned to the shop where Dave skillfully guided us through the design and woodworking process, including safe and effective use of tools. He also honoured us by letting us use some of his late grandad’s hand tools, while his respect for nature was always obvious. Tip 2: This is much easier than it sounds. Our group bonded well, prattling on about this and that... there’s something to be said of working with your hands and learning as a group. Johannah, with zero hand-tool-experience, hit her re-set button – it took her boyfriend, Kevin, a lot of coaxing to get her to try this E.T. adventure, but she changed her tune early, in the forest, and didn’t skip a beat. She had a blast. That’s the point of Experiential Tourism right? Right! When we were almost done, Dave’s wife, Michelle, laid out a fabulous spread on a giant charcuterie board and we all feasted and chatted like old friends! In the end, we came from all over Ontario, but the biggest distance travelled was measured in stretched comfort zones, not kilometers at all. For more info check out ottercreekwoodworks.com then get out and explore all that is local!
EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL REVISITED 1 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese - Affinage 101, Woodstock gunnshillcheese.ca 2 Grand River Dinner Cruises, Caledonia grandrivercruises.ca 3 Red Apple Rides - Foodie Tours+, Port Dover redapplerides.com 4 Chocolatea - Truffle Making Camp, Ingersoll chocolatea.ca 5 Ride the Bine - Wine & Beer Tours ridethebine.com 6 Tasty Road Trips Food Tours, Brant, Oxford+ tastyroadtrips.com 7 Six Nations Tourism - Educational Tours, Ohsweken sixnationstourism.ca 8 Le Chocolat du Savoie - Tasting Excursions, Brantford lechocolatdusavoie.com Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 73
Events & Activities THEATRE
Come experience the imagination, vision and spirit of our local artists with featured events, exhibitions, workshops and boutique shopping in downtown Paris! Wed & Sun 12-6 pm Thurs, Fri & Sat 12-7 pm
holly inviteS you to viSit her Studio/gallery in Charming PariS! 16 Charlotte S., PariS by aPPointment hollyo.ca
As live theatre continues to grow in popularity, lovers of the performing arts across Canada have begun noticing an emerging trend: big cities aren’t the only places to find a good show. Small towns and local theatres are churning out quality performances, and their well-known theatre companies, and impressive resumes mean a trip to the theatre is even closer than you realize! Backstage Capitol Theatre
93 King St, Delhi backstagecapitol.com Open year round, this unique and historic venue plays host to live performances of Celtic, Folk, Vintage Rock & Roll, and a host of other genres! Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corp 27 William St Paris 226-208-0622 parisbohogallery@gmail.com
247 Main St, Port Dover lighthousetheatre.com The theatre is open all year long for a variety of events, including concerts, public meetings, community fund raisers, dance recitals, workshops, band rehearsals and classes. The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
Unwrap your senses as you step inside our little shop. Enjoy hand crafted natural soaps, bath and body care, local artisans wares, gift giving ideas, home & decor.
359 Main St. Port Dover 519-583-3977
cottagenorthsoapworks.com
74 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
Her Majesty’s royal CHapel of tHe MoHawk’s eduCation prograMMing We are proud to announce that we are offering education programs that enhance the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit Education programming which reflects the goals of the Ontario Curriculum. Courses like Mohawk Village days and our wampum Belt workshop will allow your class to explore the history of Six Nations of the Grand River territory. for more information email coordinator@mohawkchapel.ca, visit mohawkchapel.ca or call 226.387.2612
88 Dalhousie St, Brantford sandersoncentre.ca A vintage, vaudeville and silent movie theatre opened in 1919, this local gem showcases plays, classical music, dance and more. With seating for 1,125 guests, it is also the home to the Brantford Symphony Orchestra. Simcoe Little Theatre
33 Talbot St N, Simcoe simcoelittletheatre.org Open for 71 years, this community theatre offers a grand selection of drama, comedy and classics. Waterford Old Town Hall
76 Main St S, Waterford oldtownhall.org A restored historic building that boasts a 180-seat auditorium, the Waterford provides our communities with cultural diversity as a music, artistic and theatrical production venue.
GALLERIES
Nothing boosts your own personal creativity more than visiting art galleries. Akin to osmosis, being around art and in the company of creative folks makes you feel more creative! Our small-town communities are rich in this talent, and there is no better way to experience it than to pop into one of these local showcases. We are where Pinterest comes to life! We will paint your furniture and kitchens, Offer DIY workshops, in-store home decor items, furniture, knobs, hooks and more!
Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant
20 Ava Rd, Brantford glenhyrst.ca Located in Glenhyrst Gardens, a beautifully landscaped sixteen-acre park on the banks of the Grand River, the gallery offers contemporary fine art exhibitions, guided tours, classes, lectures, events, and art rentals. Holly.O. Gallery
16 Charlotte St. Paris (one street north of the Arlington Hotel) hollyo.ca Paris artist Holly.O. welcomes visitors to her gallery and studio. View Holly’s collection of original artworks and take a behind-the-scenes look at her sunny studio space! Gallery is open by appointment throughout the year.
Visit our website to learn about our amazing selection of children’s art lessons, adult paint workshops & corporate paint workshops! 24 Winnett St N, Cayuga 905.929.4902 info@wildwoodcayuga.com wildwoodcayuga.com
F R OM T H E AT T IC
I N T E R I OR S 48 Grand river St. PariS 519-302-8356
fromtheatticinteriors.ca
The Oak Gallery
313 Main St, Port Dover theoakgallery.com This new gallery offers the work of both local artists and those from afar, showcasing metal, wax, acrylic, glass, ceramic, wood, watercolour, oil and ink artistic creations. Two Turtles Iroquois Fine Art Gallery
649 Colborne St, W, Brantford twoturtle.ca This modest gallery brings you the best of Iroquois culture and symbolism, celebrating nature in the form of original paintings, soapstone sculptures, limited edition acrylic prints, Giclée prints and lithographs. Wildwood Art Gallery & Studio
24 Winnett St, N, Cayuga WildwoodCayuga.com This new gallery is home to Artist Kerry Walford, who specializes in oil paintings of rural Ontario. The gallery will also feature the work of local artists, offer art classes for children and adults, and host several art shows throughout the year.
The Artisans’ Collective showcases a unique curated collection of over 30 local artists, artisans and makers. Everything in the shop has been handmade. A definite one-stop-shop for all your creative gifting needs!
121 Grand River St. N Paris 226-920-9779
We supply reptiles, Fish, & small animals, as Well as all oF your Dog & cat proDucts!
410 Fairview Dr, Brantford 519-756-7710
paulmacs.com
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 75
NATURE CALLS
Out & About
Seasons are ever changing. The altering weather is a gentle reminder that all things end, but can begin anew. Search out the treasure trove of things to see and activities to do in our communities. The sky’s the limit when it comes to natural beauty and outdoor adventure, so grab your fishing rod, pack your sunscreen and dust off your hiking boots - the great outdoors is calling!
PHOTO by Seferian Design Group seferiandesign.com
The trails of beautiful Southwestern Ontario are as diverse as the people itself and Haldimand County has just introduced two new unique gems. Whether you want to walk, run, nature watch, go for an impromptu dip in the Grand River, or just avoid social media for a few hours, the Cayuga Grand Vista in Cayuga (restored CN bridge), and Gypsum Mine Tract in Caledonia (a decommissioned gypsum mine) offer a jaw-dropping taste of natures bounty with a distinct connection to our vast history.
Cheerio!
Planting Flowers Alone Won’t Save Honey Bees – We Must do More
Two RowS On The Grand A symbol of friendship between Indigenous & non-Indigenous people. BY TARA SHANNON “The ‘Two Row on the Grand’ canoe journey is symbolic of the Two Row Wampum, the original peace treaty between native and allied communities.” Says Ellie Joseph, one of the founders of the Two Row on the Grand set to take place July 24th to August 1st, 2019. She and Jay Bailey began this grassroots event four years ago after taking part in a similar event on the Hudson River in New York. The Two Row on the Grand is organized by non-indigenous allies, volunteering alongside Six Nations community members. Last year the overall total of participants was just over 200. This year that number is expected to rise with people joining locally,
from the United States and as far away as Switzerland and Australia. The Two Row Wampum Treaty was signed in 1613 between the then Five Nations of the Haudenosaunee and the Dutch. They agreed that they would “travel down the river of life in peace together”. Neither interfering with the others culture, laws or values. The Two Row Wampum Treaty was the first of its kind and set the course for all treaties to come. Including the Treaty of Niagara in 1764, which underpins the Canadian Constitution. The Two Row Treaty and its original purpose is never more relevant than now as we toward reconciliation. The Two Row on the Grand give’s
life to the 1615 treaty by bringing together First Nations Peoples and their allies for a nine-day canoe trip down the Grand River. The journey begins in Cambridge and leads paddlers to Lake Erie, with stops along the way to camp and enjoy teachings and experiences like The Six Nations Pow Wow in Oshweken, Ontario. The purpose of the Two Row on the Grand is to build and foster strong and healthy relationships between natives and non-natives. Various teachings of the Haudenosaunee culture will be shared, educating paddlers on what the Wampum is and explaining the idea of The Good Mind, Good Words and Good Actions as it relates to mental health, caring for the environment and our collective path to reconciliation. It’s a wonderful opportunity to grow, learn and respect each other. Visit tworowonthegrand. com for more info.
Bees are an important part of our eco-system. They pollinate plants that produce the fruits and vegetables we love. Without pollination farmers would lose their livelihoods and we would lose many of the foods that we rely on every day. We need to start caring about the health and survival of our honey bees, beyond planting wild flowers; and the best place to start is by learning. “Your dinner plate is killing my bees.” says John Van Blyderveen, beekeeper and owner of Oxford Honey and Supplies located in Burgessville, Ontario. Neonicotinoids are the number one killer of honey bees and most of the foods we consume are full of them. We need to demand a change in how crops are grown and managed, and organic is the way to go. Even if we all begin buying only organic produce tomorrow, it will still take time for the neonicotinoids in our air, soil and water to work their way out of our environment and our food. But, it’s a step in the right direction. Saturday’s at 11am throughout June, July and August, John will be hosting interactive information sessions at his business right out amongst the hives. He will be more than happy to show you how a beehive functions and to answer your questions. For more information visit oxfordhoney.ca or call 519-550-1096. TS
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 77
ORDINARY
Connecting with nature offers a wealth of benefits, not to mention the sheer enjoyment of being surrounded by beauty. So go play outside! BY Tara Carpenter Spending time in the outdoors can be a very restorative experience. It is an essential and beneficial part of living in today’s hectic world. The health benefits of being outside are immeasurable. I know where my happy place is… outside surrounded by nature where I can hear the birds singing, feel the breeze blowing, and see the trees swaying. It is like an orchestra of sheer beauty. As a society we seem to be moving further away from this connection to the earth, but we are actually an intrinsic part of it in ways we can’t
even explain. During my days of wandering the world I have spent many nights walking the beaches communing with grandmother moon. Nature was my best friend, where I could spill my guts without judgment while getting filled with its warm embrace. I still spend most of my time outside, but now it is guiding others to find tranquility from the peacefulness of nature. I find the greatest pleasure in leading people of all ages through the forest or down the river to wash their troubles away even if it is only for a few hours. I love
witnessing this transformation as the unnatural world is washed away and the connection to nature is reawakened. I am sure they sense this effect and I hope it is a memory of connection that they will draw on when back amongst the daily grind. We are very fortunate here in Southern Ontario to have such an abundance of wild healing nature at our fingertips. Whether it’s a guided hike or paddle, gardening heritage plant varieties, wild-foraging native edibles, or outdoor yoga - get out and explore this awe-inspiring beauty on the edge of wilderness. Whichever way gets you out into the healing benefits of nature - do it! You will thank yourself later.
Tara Carpenter discovered her love for nature and the outdoors at an early age while growing up on a Norfolk farm. She has always been an avid enthusiast of nature and travel, and for 17 years she roamed all corners of the globe in search of adventure. From sailing Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to hitch-hiking across Canada, Tara has made herself at home in nature’s embrace. Grounded by the unique challenges of motherhood, Tara now encourages other parents and their families to get outdoors and foster their own passion for environmental connectedness. For info on programs connect with Terra Trails or GROWE grandriverrafting.ca/trips/winter-programs 78 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
The New New Age Photos Right by Katie Hotchkiss @carolinianvisions katiehotchkiss.ca
OF THE
PHOTO By Tara Carpenter
OUT
Our Ontario southwest offers a copious quantity of wild edibles just waiting to be gobbled up by anyone who knows where and when to forage. Here are just a few of the delights to be had.
GROWE / Terra Trails
Paris grandriverrafting.ca Grand River Outdoor Wilderness Education (GROWE) specializes in a menu of outdoor adventures for schools, groups and families from two-hour hikes, day camps to multiday adventures. To engage people in the great outdoors, GROWE uses nature connection, hiking classrooms, wild tea parties and survival techniques with minimum distance and maximum learning experiences.
Kayanase Greenhouse
Ohsweken kayanasegreenhouse.weebly.com Kayanase Greenhouse is an ecological restoration, native plant, and seed nursery dedicated to improving the health of Mother Earth using science-based approaches and Traditional Ecological knowledge. This organization is about restoring Mother Earth holistically, through the collection of native seeds, seed processing, seed propagation, planting, and monitoring. Emmy Shanti Yoga
The New New Age
Brantford emmyshanti.org Emmy Shanti Yoga & Adventure Wellness Tours provides services that harmonize all of you through workshops, yoga, and international wellness adventure tours. Her aim is to assist in the elevation of individuals physical, emotional, mental and spiritual capacity through the outdoors, travel, physical skills, and acquisition of knowledge techniques for daily life.
Aylmer thenewnewage.com The New New Age is a medicinal herb farm and forest sanctuary committed to providing the highest quality medicinal, culinary and tonic herbs for the benefit of human and environmental health. Inspired by the interconnectedness of human and environmental health, they practice organic, ecological farming and ethical wildcrafting inspired by permaculture and Druidry.
Coneflower Echinacea angustifolia This eye-catching internationally known flower is the queen of blood purifiers and a powerful lymphatic cleanser. The Indigenous people of this land knew the value of echinecea for stimulating and strengthening the immune system. The entire plant can be utilized. Since the body may build up an immunity to its beneficial effect, only take for 2-8 weeks at a time.
Sunchoke Helianthus tuberosus The Jerusalem Artichoke is a perennial sunflower that grows to 3m tall with edible tubers that are best harvested in the spring. The starchless tuber can be eaten raw or cooked like a potato. It is a valuable food for strengthening the lungs, relieving constipation, chronic fatigue, and a benefit for diabetics. Truly a medicinal food that is alkaline forming in the body.
Evening Primrose Oenothera biennis As the name suggests, the flower unfolds at night. The oil from the seed contains linoleic and gammalinolenic acid (GLA) which sets it apart from many other oils and makes the plant so valuable to our health. This oil is a star player in our well being by having a beneficial stimulating effect on the liver, spleen and digestive system as well as relieving symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 79
Recreation & Adventure GOLF BrantFORD
• Brantford Golf & Country Club • Brantford Indoor Golf Club • Northridge Public Golf Course • Arrowdale Public Golf Course Brant County
IT’S A lIfeSTyle ChoICe Peak Alliance Realty Inc. is located in the downtown core of the “Prettiest Town in Canada”. We are a full service brokerage serving the County of Brant (Paris, St.George, Glen Morris, Burford), the city of Brantford and surrounding area. Owners Jim Stonham and Mike Manes take pride in their Customer-First and Community/Family Involvement. They continue to strive towards their vision to achieve world-class service by being the top realty resource. If you are nearby, please stop by for a visit!
• Brant Valley Golf Club • Burford Golf Links • GolfNorth Properties • Heron Point Golf Links • Northfield Golf Centre • Mystic Golf Club • The Oaks of St George Golf Club Haldimand County
• Cayuga Golf Club • Dunnville Golf & Country Club • Freedom Oaks Golf Club • Highland Mini-Golf • MontHill Golf and Country Club • Sandusk Golf Club • The Dunnville Golf and Country Club Norfolk County
Jim and Mike were named 2018’s #1 & #2 top sellers of resale homes in Paris!
36 Grand rIver ST n 519-442-3100 peakrealestate.com
Simply Nic Nutrition is dedicated to helping empower people to make healthy choices for themselves and create long-term and sustainable goals and changes. For information on coaching, workshops, or menu plans please visit simplynicnutrition.com or email info@simplynicnutrition.com
80 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
• Fescue’s Edge Golf Club • Greens At Renton • Lynn Meadows Golf Club • Norfolk Golf & Country Club • Pine Valley Golf Club • Sandusk Golf Club • Springview Farm Golf Course • The Links at Dover Coast • Woodside Greens Golf Park OXFORD COUNTY
• Innerkip Highlands Golf Club • Craigowan Golf Club • Ingersoll Golf Club • Otter Creek Golf Club • Mount Elgin Golfers Club • Cobble Hills Golf Club • Creekside Golf Club • Pine Knot Golf & Country Club • Sally Creek Golf Club • St. Marys Golf & Country Club • Stonehaven Golf Course • Tamarack Ridge Golf Club • Tarandowah Golfers Club Inc • The Bridges at Tillsonburg • Tillsonview Fairways • Woodstock Meadows Golf Ctr
TRAILS Brant County
BACKUS HERITAGE CA
DEER CREEK CA
NANTICOKE, ON
HALDIMAND CA
NORFOLK CA
WATERFORD, ON
Haldimand County • Blue Heron Way • Chippewa Trail • Kinsmen Park Walkway • Patterson Walkway • Ramsay Walkway • Rotary Riverside Trail • Thistlemoor Park Pathway • Thompson Creek Restoration • Townsend Recreation Trail
PORT ROWAN, ON
• Burford Lion’s Way • Grand Valley Trail (GVTA) • Green Lane Park • LE & N Rail Trail • Mt.Pleasant Walking Tour • Mt.Pleasant Nature Park • Nith River Trail • S.C. Johnson Trail (GRCA) • TH & B Rail Trail
LANGTON, ON
Brant County
EXPLORE
SIMCOE, ON
• Apps Mill Trail (GRCA) • D’Aubigny Trail • Hamilton to Brantford Trail (GRCA) • Mohawk Park
WATERFORD NORTH CA
Something New Every Time You Visit
Long Point Region Conservation Areas 5 unique recreation experiences for day-tripping and weekend getaways All parks OPEN May 1 until October 15, 2019
CAMP - FIS H - S W IM - PAD D LE - H IKE - LE AR N For more details or to book a campsite visit www.lprca.on.ca
Norfolk County
• Andy and Helen Spriet Trail • Backus Woods • Big Creek National Wildlife Area • Brook Conservation Area • Delhi Rail Trail • Hay Creek Conservation Area • Lynn Valley Trail • Long Point Eco-Adventures and Burning Kiln Winery • Long Point Provincial Park • Norfolk Sunrise Trail • Port Rowan Wetlands • St Williams Conservation Reserve • Sutton Conservation Area • Turkey Point Provincial Park • Woodlots in Norfolk County • Waterford Heritage Trail OXFORD COUNTY
• Beauty Creek Trail • Chesney Wilderness Area Trail • Lawson Nature Reserve • Oxford Thames River Trail • Pittock Conservation Area • Roth Park • Secord Trails Care Community • Southside Park • Victoria Park
FANS AREN’T COOL.
Make your cooling solution a PRiORiTy. Call Priority Mechanical to see how
you can receive up to 10 years
HEATiNg • COOLiNg • PLumbiNg • AiR QuALiTy parts and labour warranty on the• CONTROLS • FiREPLACES
purchase and install of a Trane A/C
Schedule an installation Today: 1-844-632-7116 3160 ALPS Rd, AyR 519-632-7116 prioritymechanical.ca Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 81
OUR TOWN
Homecoming Caring about your town and clients before money brings success naturally. BY Alan Dunlop My first experience of a small town was when I was 16 years old. I was headed down a long dark road and was given the opportunity to move out to a town in Saskatchewan called Esterhazy. The town embraced me and I fell in love with knowing my neighbours, and being involved in that community changed my direction and how I looked at life. In my mid twenties, I moved back to my hometown of Brampton and experienced a huge adjustment. I was supply teaching at a school that I had attended not so many years before and in short order, I knew I needed to make another big change. It was hard for me to accept that the career choice I thought I wanted was not for me and for the next five years I struggled to find the right fit until one day I saw an add for homes in Brantford at my doctor’s office. My first thought was, “Where is Brantford?” I decided to take a drive there and I immediately felt at home. I went to look at homes in West Brant and as I walked up to the model house, a couple, walking past me said, “ Hello, are you enjoying this beautiful day?” It transported me back to Esterhazy immediately and I moved to Brantford! Out of chance at a charity event, I met the President of a 82 LIVE SMALL TOWN livesmalltownmag.ca
company who just opened an office in Brantford and he offered me a job in a field that I had never done before. I was excited for the challenge and life began falling into place for me but in 2006 I experienced the hardest year of my life. First I was laid off from the company I had joined and then heartache came. My son Jack passed away during delivery and it was devastating for our family. Out of work, with mounting bills, I went to our bank for help but they could not help me with credit but the manager saw something in me and offered me a job. When I needed it the most, life brought the change I needed. I loved this new career but in 2013, I needed another change and with the advice of my veterinarian, (yes my vet!) I decided to strike out on my own in private financing. In just under four weeks I was up and running. Had my own office in Brantford and within six months my close friend Thor left the banking world and joined me. Since then our team has grown and Andrew, Jim and Melissa have all been amazing people to work with. The small-town values that got me on the straight and narrow so long ago, guide me always. I focus on putting our clients first and giving back to community through local charities because it makes me feel complete. Life has not been easy but I try to find a good balance. Being able to attend school trips, help those in need, build my relationships... I really don’t even search out business anymore. It all just seems to have fallen into place.
For more information please crescentmortgage.ca or email alan@crescentmortgage.ca
T
LO
POI N NG
-ADVENTURES ECO
Live it for a day. Live it for a lifetime. SUMMER 2019 83
HISTORY DINING SHOPPING ARTS &CULTURE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ADD TO YOUR SUMMER OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Visit brant.ca/bbc to learn how!
tourism@brant.ca brant.ca/tourism • brant.ca/bbc E D Q @branttourism