Issuu

Magnificent Migration Monarch’s

Having the right advisory team matters.

Chapman Private Wealth Group of RBC Dominion Securities

I was born and raised in the Collingwood area and am proud to put my decades of experience to work, serving clients locally, throughout the GTA and across the country. I lead one of the fastest-growing wealth management teams in Canada – for 20 years on Bay Street and now back in the community I love. Daily, I draw on a wide network of specialists and extensive knowledge of strategic, alternative investments to help you secure the financial future you’ve envisioned for yourself and your family.

Put my extensive experience and unparalleled commitment to work for you. I’d be honoured to serve as your personal CIO. Let’s talk.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Please join us for an enlightening and complimentary evening with RBC experts and three local charities who will empower you with knowledge and tools to help you make a lasting impact through thoughtful, strategic philanthropic giving. Kindly RSVP to chapmanwealth@rbc.com.

Paul Chapman, CIM, MBA, B.Sc. (Eng)

Investment & Wealth Advisor

Office: 705-444-1800 | Mobile: 705-441-0482 | paul.chapman@rbc.com

1 First St., Suite 230, Collingwood, ON L9Y 1A1 www.chapmanprivatewealth.ca

Bay Street experience. Small town values. Truly differentiated advice.

• Portfolio Management

• Retirement & Financial Planning

• Will & Estate Planning

• Alternative Investments

• Business Owner Planning

• Insurance-Based Solutions

• Tax Mitigation Strategies

Where Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort in Newmarket

The Postmark Hotel offers an experience that goes beyond an ordinary stay. Explore our curated collection of Canadian art and relax in our expansive rooms with luxury bedding. Step outside onto Newmarket’s historic Main Street where shopping, landmarks, and local charm are at your fingertips.

Dine and Unwind with Elevated Moments and Exquisite Views

Enjoy extraordinary flavours at our rooftop restaurant, Overlea, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views. With indoor and outdoor seating, weekend brunch to evening cocktails, every meal is a celebration. Our inviting Lobby Bar is open daily for coffee, light snacks, crafted cocktails and local wine and beer.

Your Getaway Starts Now.

“When you’ve got a big project, it’s time to call the BIG DOG!”

Luxury Bathroom Renovation

Glen Huron

Brighter tomorrows are possible, because of the care we take today.

We are working to build the world-class facility that South Georgian Bay needs and deserves.

At 4x the current size, the new hospital will expand healthcare services for our fast-growing community, improve patient care and privacy, attract top healthcare professionals, and build on our strengths in education and training. While the provincial government covers up to 90% of construction costs, this leaves 10% of construction costs, plus the costs of all medical equipment and furnishings, to be funded through community support. This last responsibility, known as the local share, belongs to the people who will benefit from the new hospital and the families that will benefit for generations to come. To ensure the new hospital is filled with state-of-the-art lifesaving technology, it is imperative that we raise the $100 million+ during the planning and construction stages.

With your help, the new facility will be ready to support all of us when we need it most.

Key Features:

132 private, inpatient rooms

4x square footage

4 operating rooms

3x emergency department size

Expanded intensive care unit

State-of-the-art learning facility

Satellite chemotherapy unit

Campaign Leadership

We’re grateful to this group of extraordinary philanthropic, business and community leaders guiding this campaign. They are deeply committed to transforming care in South Georgian Bay, and to providing our healthcare professionals the space, tools and flexibility they need to serve our community into the future.

Pictured from top left: Campaign Co-Chairs Tony Arrell, Jennifer Young, Gord Canning and Campaign Cabinet

Members Kara McIntosh, George Dickson and Jack Marley.

Roger Mantero, CGMH Orthopedic Technician and grateful patient Maeve.

149 East Ridge - Thornbury 49 Denmark Street - Meaford

Experience luxury living in Lora Bay with this stunning custom-built home, offering over 4,500 sq. ft. of meticulously designed space. The open-concept main floor features soaring ceilings, post-and-beam construction, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Experience the best of Meaford in this meticulously restored red-brick century home, perfectly located beside the harbour with Georgian Bay views. Walk to shops, dining, and Meaford Hall, with boating, trails, skiing, and golf nearby.

173 High Bluff Lane - Thornbury

Discover luxury living in Thornbury—4,500 sq ft of stunning design near Georgian Bay. Vaulted ceilings, wood beams, a chef’s kitchen, mainfloor primary, finished lower level, and direct trail access.

14 Montclair Mews - Collingwood

Stunning end-unit townhome in Collingwood’s Shipyards! Features 3 beds, 3 baths, a main-floor office/den, and an unbeatable location just steps from amenities, shops, and dining.

108 Landry Lane Unit 1 - Thornbury

This bright end-unit Lora Bay Villa offers hardwood floors, a refreshed kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and a private patio. Two ensuite bedrooms, a finished lower level, and a 2-car garage complete the home.

1 Windrose Valley Blvd - Clearview

Luxury living in Windrose Estates! This 8-bed, 5-bath home offers 5,000+ sq ft of elegance with pine beams, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and stunning mountain views on 1.5 acres. Minutes from Osler & Blue.

This Jane Lockhart-designed chalet is a fourseason retreat off Camperdown Road, just three minutes from Georgian Peaks and Georgian Bay Golf Club. Enjoy world-class skiing, golf, and yearround outdoor living.

8302 Poplar Sideroad - Clearview

Renovated post-and-beam home with 3,600+ sq ft of modern living. Private lot, brand-new kitchen, refreshed interior, wood-fired sauna. Minutes from Osler Ski Club and Collingwood.

807035 25th Sideroad - Grey Highlands

This 25-acre estate blends luxury, sustainability, and natural beauty with panoramic views of Beaver Valley, Blue Mountains & Georgian Bay. A net-zero-ready home with 4 beds, trails, a loft, and farmed land.

106 Dorothy Drive - The Blue Mountains

186 Third Street - Collingwood 116 Timber Lane - Thornbury

Step into the timeless elegance of this one-of-akind century home, nestled in the heart of Collingwood on just under 1/2 an acre of lush, manicured grounds. This lovingly restored masterpiece blends historic charm with modern luxury.

415040 10th Line - Ravenna

Escape to a serene sanctuary where nature’s beauty blends seamlessly with modern luxury. Set on a breathtaking 100-acre property, this fully renovated bungaloft offers the ultimate retreat.

Stunning Thornbury bungaloft, featuring an openconcept design, a chef’s kitchen, and engineered hardwood. The walkout basement boasts 9-ft ceilings, while the outdoor space offers a deck, patio, and firepit—just minutes from Georgian Bay.

21 Trails End - Collingwood

Experience an extraordinary lifestyle in this custom-designed masterpiece by awardwinning architects Guthrie Muscovitch, where industrial loft elegance meets the warmth of a Collingwood chalet.

This newly built masterpiece offers panoramic bay views and direct sight-lines to Georgian Peaks Ski Club, this home is designed for elegance and adventure at your doorstep.

-

In the heart of downtown Collingwood, Unit 318 is a beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom suite that boasts over 1,250 square feet of living space and a west-facing balcony that captures downtown and escarpment views.

120 Sebastian Street - The Blue Mountains

318 - 1 Hume Street

Collingwood

Enjoy

your Backyard

Living in the Georgian Bay area, we’re privileged to have nature’s playground right outside our doors.

Whether you’re out exploring or just enjoying the views, you can rely on Darryn, Andrew, and the team at Stroud & Scott Wealth Management to keep your wealth plan on track so you can make the most of the outdoors all year long.

Stroud & Scott Wealth Management is a proud member of the Collingwood, Thornbury, and Blue Mountain communities. We provide custom wealth solutions for families and business owners to help you build your net worth, be tax efficient, protect what matters, and build your legacy.

Darryn Stroud, CIM® Portfolio Manager T: 705-444-1904 darryn.stroud@td.com

Jeanine Rayner

Client Relationship Associate T: 705-444-5828

jeanine.rayner@td.com

Andrew Scott Investment Advisor T: 705-444-1524 andrew.scott@td.com

Natasha McEachern

Client Service Associate T: 705-444-1337 natasha.mceachern@td.com

Sarah Pryce

Client Service Associate T: 705-444-6902

sarah.pryce@td.com

Blue Skies Ahead Monarch Magic Word

SPRING 2025

of Mouth

From the Office Monarch Butterflies

Inbox What’s Online

Scene On Stage Buzz Bay Watch Fenceposts

For the Love of the Restaurant Game

Colour Theory Riot of Spring Spring Fever!

Locally Developed The Little Town That Could Beauty, Business & Botox

234520 Concession 2 WGR, Durham 7 BEDS | 4+1 BATHS | 6,000 SQ. FT. 486-acre historic countryside offering extreme

1850s stone farmhouse, modern updates by architect Gren Weis, geothermal HVAC, lakeside guest house, pool, tennis court, trails, and stunning sunset views.

Monarch butterflies feeding on globe thistle ( Echinops) in Thornbury, Ontario. Discover the mysteries of butterfly migration in Audrey Armstrong’s feature story on page 86.

3” Silhouette® Sheer Shadings with PowerView® in Mystere

Here’s a sneak peek at some of what’s online at Bay Watch now:

www.ThePicotTeam.com

GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY

S10436718 | $2,295,000

Experience luxury living in the heart of Ontario’s 4-season playground. Nestled between Blue Mountain Village and downtown Collingwood, this Mair Mills Estates property offers unparalleled access to year-round recreation and leisure. Start your day walking along the Georgian Trail, followed by a round of golf/a day on the slopes or an afternoon by the Bay. Enjoy the social scene of Collingwood’s fine dining, boutique shops and services minutes away. Updated in 2022, no detail was overlooked. This exquisite 6-bedroom, 6-bathroom custom home offers over 4600 sqft. of open concept living. The home’s immaculate craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from quartz counters to 10 ft ceilings and grand foyer. The main floor primary bedroom offers a private retreat with walk-out to Jacuzzi hot tub. A serene yard backs on to the 5th hole at Blue Mountain Golf & CC, perfect for morning coffee by the fire pit. A western-facing upper deck enjoys the beautiful sunsets over the Escarpment. Walkouts, multiple decks and a stone patio effortlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The modern kitchen opens to a spacious dining area and living room with inviting wood burning fireplace. The basement retreat features a family room, games area and king-sized suite/3 pc bathroom, providing ample space for family and friends. The expansive lot accommodates 10 cars in the driveway and 2 in the oversized garage, w/direct access to the mudroom/laundry and pantry. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, this home offers a lifestyle of comfort in one of the areas most desirable neighborhoods.

Barb Picot* Ron Picot*

WITH THE PICOT TEAM

144 Princeton Shores Boulevard, Collingwood

What’s ON STAGE

John Wort Hannam

Gowan

Jim Cuddy Trio With Special Guests Sam Polley & Devin Cuddy Duo, Live at the John Saunders Centre

Leeroy Stagger

A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder

Last Night at the Proms, Eh?

7 Stories

Higher Funktion

Rosie’s Smokehouse

Deluxe With Special Guest Shane Cloutier

The Queen’s Quartet: a Bridgerton-Inspired Concert

CanFilmDay: Without Precedent

Blue Water Jazz Collective

Celebrating Musicians

Better health is a lifelong journey

Choose the right healthcare partner

Take control of your health with personalized services that redefine what you can do, and will do. By taking a proactive approach to your well-being, Medcan empowers you to achieve your goals and build a healthier, more vibrant future. Learn

While it’s true that some things disappear into the ether forever, Arnold says the lost and found has a great track record with 90 percent of cell phones, wallets and car keys being returned to their owners.

Providing Children

Caithkin Treatment Foster Homes has been providing safe homes for vulnerable youth for over 20 years in Wasaga Beach and surrounding areas. Currently, there are over 8,500 children and youth living in foster care in the Province of Ontario, and the need for stable and caring home environments continues to grow.

Moving to the country to work brings its own set of seasonal distractions.

The snowblower is now in the way and must be dragged to a fence corner where it will sit in a forest of burdocks and thistles until next Christmas. Spring is a great relief, but it brings with it a host of fresh distractions: the gardens, the fences, and of course, the spring lambs.

Imagine a classic chalet for après ski shenanigans at nearby Jozo’s, or at home on your deck. A townhouse with four spacious levels, about 4 giant steps to the Collingwood waterfront. A rambling stunner overlooking Creemore. Or, how about a European-vibe ranch sitting pretty on 126 acres in the rolling hills near Thornbury. (Talk about privacy!) Choose the lifestyle that suits your fancy, or your not-so-fancy! Give us a call, or let’s meet in Creemore for a Creemore, at the bakery in downtown Thornbury, or at our shops in Collingwood or Owen Sound. Everyone deserves an extraordinary life. Learn more at: maxhahne.evrealestate.com or scan the QR code below.

Max Hahne

Steve Assaff grew from a hardscrabble youth on the streets of 1960s Collingwood into the developer of some of the region’s most visionary building projects.

I love this town and what it has evolved into. I have always believed that this town is a wonderful place and have raised my family here.

Spring Fever!

Spring is a time of renewal. Whether it’s a brand new gardening toy, home decor or something personal to reawaken our bodies and senses, these seasonal musthaves will put the spring in your step and more!

The garden your garden dreams about is around the corner.

local \\ knowledgeable @grey.heron.gardens greyheron.ca

Unique, high-quality, Canadian-made, custom wood products, born from time-honoured practices, for beautiful additions to adorn and enhance your home for years to come. We can cover engineered posts and beams to add a design element to the structural elements.

Blue Skies Ahead

Craig Pitman faced a perfect storm building his dream chalet. But the result—named “Bluebird” after the ideal ski day—is worth every struggle.

Craig Pitman,

The amazing

The 1,100-square-foot open-concept living/dining/kitchen area is on the second floor with a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling view of Blue Mountain.

Still, all the hard work and stress paid off in the end. The home, which is truly Craig’s creation, is stunningly stylish and simple.

Source Guide

The room feels even more spacious because of the 18-foot-high ceilings.

A family-owned and operated custom home design and build firm with over 30 years of experience, in Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, Clearview, The Blue Mountains and surrounding area.

Photo credit - Erin Mann

Photo credit - Pam Yoannou

For the Love of the Restaurant Game

“Dedication, love and respect” flow through every aspect of the new Tremont Cafe.

The story of the elegant new 70-seat Tremont Cafe is filled with a cast of characters embracing vibrant multiculturalism, a deep affinity for enlightened hospitality, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.

“The word restaurateur is from the French word restaurer, meaning ‘to restore.’ We take that position to heart.”

The Tremont Cafe

Featuring a Mediterranean-focused menu with dishes like shankleesh (a spreadable Lebanese cheese) and falafel, this version of The Tremont Cafe looks a lot different than the original.

The Creed & Co. Realty Team, powered by Forest Hill Real Estate, is more than just buying or selling properties, it’s about relationships, trust and a personalized approach that ensures every client finds not just a house, but a home. As the Broker and Owner of Forest Hill Collingwood and the founder of Creed & Co., I’ve built my career on a foundation of integrity, innovation and strategic marketing.

With a background in business and marketing, including an MBA from the Schulich School of Business, I bring a unique perspective to the ever-evolving real estate landscape. This region, defined by its stunning natural beauty, active lifestyle and vibrant community, has become a sought-after destination for buyers and investors alike. I knew that by combining my city experience with deep local expertise, I could offer something truly valuable: a boutique brokerage committed to elevating the standard of real estate in the area.

Forest Hill Collingwood was founded with the vision of redefining the client experience, while Creed & Co. Realty was born out of my desire to create a collaborative and strategic team environment. This dynamic approach allows us to deliver tailored solutions for our clients, whether they are purchasing a dream home, investing in the market or selling their property with confidence. By surrounding myself with a trusted team, including Sales Representatives Alycia Joy and Ashley Wojcik, we ensure that our clients receive an elevated level of service, expertise and support at every stage of their real estate journey.

Beyond serving our clients, I am deeply committed to mentoring and empowering the agents within my brokerage. Sharing insights, offering oneon-one guidance and providing the tools they need to grow their businesses not only strengthens our team but reinforces our core values of integrity, professionalism and innovation. When we lift each other up, we create an environment rooted in collaboration and excellence, one that ultimately benefits our clients and community.

I take great pride in what we’re building at Forest Hill Collingwood and Creed & Co. Realty. Together, we are shaping the future of real estate in Southern Georgian Bay, embracing new opportunities and redefining what exceptional service looks like. Whether you’re buying, selling or simply exploring the market, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s unlock the full potential of this incredible region, together.

“I started to work with flavours and ingredients I’d never worked with before, like Aleppo pepper—a richly flavoured, mildly spicy chile pepper from Syria—and za’atar, which is a Middle Eastern spice blend. The main thing I learned was simplicity,” says Chef Fevens.

As an independent advisory firm, BlueRock Wealth Management Inc. has the freedom to support and assist in the growth of your legacy.

Book a FIT consultation today!

MANAGE WEALTH FOR LIFE

One of the most important questions we ask our clients is

WHAT

DOES WEALTH MEAN TO YOU?

The concept of wealth is different for each of us. Your unique interpretations, based on your individual dreams and goals, gives us the groundwork to plan your financial success, for life.

For more than 30 years, professionals, entrepreneurs and their families in the Georgian Bay area have turned to BlueRock Wealth Management for personalized financial advice and we’ve delivered. Tell us what kind of wealth you envision for your present and future, and we’ll create a financial plan that honours your aspirations, and helps achieve your goals. Our advisors are known for their knowledge, passion, confidence and dedicated service. Call 705-443-5599 ext. 1229 to book your FIT meeting.

MONARCH MAGIC

Fifty years ago, Canadian scientists first discovered the monarch butterfly’s overwintering site in the mountains of Mexico—but that’s just one piece of the enduring mystery of monarch migration.

The soft rustling of wings increased to a whirling crescendo; suddenly millions of monarchs cascaded into the air in unison.

My furthest recovered tag was from a monarch tagged in August 2006 in Tobermory. That tag was found in El Rosario, Mexico, on February 27, 2007, a remarkable distance of 4,121 kilometres.

They often return to the exact same sites, even the same branches year after year. Is it ancient memory or pheromones on branches?

Monarch roosting in Mexico is one of the natural wonders of the world. But you can observe the natural phenomenon of monarchs roosting in the hundreds right here in Southern Georgian Bay during fall migration.

WELCOME to Jerry Pfeil Bayside Chrysler, located on the West side of Meaford, ON. Over 100 New & Used Vehicles on ground and Ready to go!

A guide to Southern Georgian Bay’s greatest sandwiches.

The humble sandwich is the perfect food, endlessly creative and deeply personal. Somebody who loved you deeply made you sandwiches for years. And then a sandwich was likely the first meal you ever made yourself.

PRICING GUIDE

$ under $10

Workers’ fuel. Any time of day. Like life, sandwiches can be intimidating and messy, occasionally tidy and orderly. They evoke emotions like no other fare. A memorable sandwich allows you to travel space and time, taking you from your grandmother’s kitchen to a piazza in Italy, a picnic at Wasaga Beach or an awkward first date.

$$ $10 to $15

$$$ $15 to $20

$$$$ $20 and up

There are many challenges creating an artful handheld. You take a magnificent meal and put it between two slices of bread. Great bread. Bread is 50 percent of the equation. It provides the structure. No utensils. The virtuoso sandwich-maker dictates your entire eating experience, a symphony of flavours in every bite.

Transcendent sandwiches become emblematic of the culture, geography and people who create them. Think lobster rolls in Nova Scotia, pastrami on rye in New York City, mortadella in Italy, a Vietnamese banh mi. These sandwiches deserve to be on a flag. “This is who we are, where we come from and what we value.” The pursuit of the world’s classic sandwiches has taken my wife and me around the globe, but there are wonders to be experienced in our own backyard.

Establishing which are the greatest sandwiches of Southern Georgian Bay is a fraught enterprise. This list is neither definitive nor comprehensive but offers a smorgasbord of highlights. You will find options for every budget (the least expensive entry is $5.50) and everything from well-known establishments to locals’ favourite spots off the beaten path—but there are no weak links.

Did we miss any? Weigh in at readermail@onthebaymagazine.com with the subject line “Sandwich.” Open wide and enjoy!

The Milk Maid $$ 947 2nd Ave. E., Owen Sound, 519-372-1130, themilkmaidcheese.ca

Grilled Cheese is one of the ultimate comfort foods. The Milk Maid in downtown Owen Sound celebrates this iconic sandwich, taking it to another level. The Fiona (named after the owner’s daughter) features one-year-old local cheddar and crispy bacon between sourdough from Crust and Crackle Artisan Bread. Built with intention and beautifully presented, The Fiona fills the soul. The first crunch, the melty goodness, the exceptional chew. A locals’ favourite sit-down spot.

Ravenna Country Market $$$

495972 Grey County Rd. 2, Ravenna, 519-599-2796, ravennacountrymarket.ca

This is the one. Polling local residents, the Ravenna Country Market has by far the most recommended sandwich in the area. It’s not even close. No contest. An impressive choice of fixings for all sandwiches. Why choose? Load ‘em up. Even a committed carnivore will be in awe of their roasted vegetables and goat cheese on sourdough grilled. It might get messy. Currently takeout only with picnic tables offering 50-mile views of the Beaver Valley. Reward yourself after a hike on the Bruce Trail or the long ascent on a bike up 119.

Jake’s Grab & Go $$

36 S. Sykes St., Meaford, 519-375-5933, jakesgrabandgo.ca

One of the quality indicators of a sandwich destination is the tradespeople, hydro workers and office crowds lined up at lunchtime. At this place, noon traffic is out the door. Meaford’s unassuming temple to the handheld meal, the Grab & Go fuels the local bustling building scene. For a pure protein delivery system it is tough to beat Jake’s Philly-style roast beef. Thin-shaved, in-houseroasted beef with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers is smeared with homemade garlic aioli on a squishy sub bun. Spice it up with jalapenos. Limited seating.

Four Corner Tea Room $$

28 Queen St. W., Elmvale, 705-322-0314, instagram.com/fourcornertearoom

Eating at the Four Corner feels like sitting in your grandmother’s kitchen. Nancy greets most guests by name. Bread from the famous Elmvale Bakery three doors down is featured on their menu. My mom was a big fan of the half-sandwich offering and a mug of soup. A local favourite is the BLT with Swiss cheese and mayo on rye.

Honey Monster Fried Chicken & Ramen

Brightside Deli

Paula’s Pantry & Gifts

Che Roba!

Mylar and Loreta’s Restaurant

Tesoro Mercato

The European Bakery Café

The Cheese Gallery

Black Angus Sandwich Shop

Jimmy’s Kitchen

UNLIMITED GONDOLA & HIKING ACCESS

Misfits Bodega

The Bakery of Flesherton

Creemore Bakery

Euro-Lex Deli

YF Patisserie Chocolatier

The Little Town That Could

“Creemore” in Gaelic means “big heart.” With its welcoming, avant-garde entrepreneurs, artists and artisans, this pretty little town in a valley more than lives up to its name. With popularity bringing new pressures, the community is girding to keep it that way.

In all

Visioning the future

Any future vision must also take into account the rich heritage and culture that the community has protected.

So far the committee has hired Toronto’s awardwinning ERA Architects to create a plan, with public participation, for streetscape enhancements that will beautify the town, protect its pedestrianfocused downtown core, provide places for people to gather and sit, foster economic vitality, and enhance environmental sustainability.

As committee chair Johnston says, “This project represents a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and imagine the future of our downtown. Focusing on sustainability, beauty and heritage, we’re not only preserving what makes Creemore special but also setting it up for long-term success.”

Patios will be an important component, Johnston continues. “It’s really important that we get people to spend more time...to feel the vibe and genuine charm” of the town, “to get people to linger longer.”

Indeed, coming together as a community is on top of everyone’s agenda from the BIA to the Creemore Community Foundation, a not-forprofit organization launched in 2019 to enhance the cultural, heritage and physical landscape of

the town and its surroundings, and the Creemore Horticultural Society, founded more than 100 years ago, whose volunteers work en masse to beautify the town.

Any future vision must also take into account the rich heritage and culture that the community has protected—and wants to continue to preserve. For example, the Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society holds lectures on the history of the community and has created the Creemore Historic Plaques Walking Tour. The tour starts, remarkably, at a Petun Indigenous settlement that dates from 1590, teaching that Creemore is in the heart of one of the First Nations settlements in North America.

Meanwhile, the society’s member artists, like Eakins, give back to the community by providing art instruction for children attending schools where art courses are no longer offered.

And the jewel in the society’s crown is the annual Creemore Festival of the Arts in October. Last year it showcased the work of 50 artists and 30 artisans in studios, business venues, churches, the town hall—and even on front porches!

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Owners of the wine bar and shop Chin Chin, sommelier Kieran Coyne and Tammy Yiu Coyne. Wine tasting at Chin Chin’s window seat. Curiosity House Book co-owner Rina Barone. Great reads for wise owls. The display case at YF Patissier and Chocolatier. Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society chair Nadine Melemis.

Global influences, local roots

“Focusing on sustainability, beauty and heritage, we’re not only preserving what makes Creemore special but also setting it up for long-term success.”

NANCY JOHNSTON

Tucked away in a valley

You’ve Earned It

A

spring road trip and great savings on auto insurance.

As you prepare your vehicle for spring road trips and tackle seasonal maintenance, take this opportunity to explore your auto insurance options.

Get a complimentary policy review from CAA Insurance1 to see how much you could save with options like these:

CAA MyPace ® : If you drive less than 9,000 km/year, you could save with Canada’s first pay-as-you-go auto insurance payment program.

Forgive and Forget ® : Protect your rate and good driving record after your first at-fault accident.

Additional discounts: CAA Insurance offers extra savings if you’re retired or have a history of safe driving. Plus, CAA Members save up to 20% on their premium.2

CAA Auto and Home Insurance1 Bundling Discount: Get 15% 3 off auto insurance, up to 12.5% off home insurance, plus complimentary CAA Tire Coverage.1

Anyone can get a complimentary policy review with CAA Insurance. CAA Members can save up to 20%2 on their premium. For your complimentary policy review, call 1-833-673-3030 or visit carp.ca/caa-auto to learn more.

If it feels like medical spas are popping up everywhere, you’re not imagining it. Botox, fillers, laser treatments and a range of other non-surgical aesthetic services have become big business, even in our region of small towns. In fact, there are nearly as many med spas as cannabis shops, which says a lot! And before you get all judgy, remember—most of us indulge in a little vanity, whether it’s covering greys, whitening our teeth, or even just a little swipe of makeup. So why the boom? Well, there are a number of reasons, starting with our aging population. Every day, more people wake up to new wrinkles, many of whom aren’t thrilled about them. And the growing cultural focus on overall self-care has

& Botox Business Beauty,

The med spa boom has arrived in Southern Georgian Bay.

BY JESSICA WORTSMAN // PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA CRANDLEMIRE

extended to investing in caring for appearance too.

Another reason is how normalized cosmetic procedures have become. Many social media influencers and celebrities, like Chrissy Teigan, Joe Jonas and every single Kardashian, now openly share the work they do to maintain their looks, which has minimized the stigma—particularly among generation Z and younger millennials.

Botox is the most popular non-surgical procedure for both men and women across all age groups with close to nine million injections performed worldwide. Dermal fillers follow closely with 5.5 million treatments globally—and both figures continue to rise each year.

The evolution of regenerative medicine— treatments that harness the body’s natural

healing abilities—has further expanded aesthetic possibilities, through stem cells, growth factors and collagen-boosting therapies. The technology just keeps improving, bringing more options and better results. Today, there’s a non-surgical treatment for nearly every skin and body concern, as well as solutions to suit different preferences— whether you want to avoid injectables, skip downtime, or opt for a one-and-done procedure.

Consumer Beware

The lure of a booming market can also breed questionable business practices as providers compete for profit. Upselling is common. And these technologies aren’t cheap, with some devices costing upwards of $100,000, meaning clinics need a return on their investment. So, trust in your provider is key.

The medical aesthetics industry still has a bit of a Wild West feel—fast-growing, competitive, and loosely regulated, even in Canada. With no unified governing body, enforcement is lax—so while only licensed medical professionals can inject Botox and fillers, bootleg and “back alley” treatments are still a reality. Meanwhile, training standards for laser and energy-based treatments vary by province, adding to the confusion. This means you need to do your homework—check credentials, ask about training and seek referrals to ensure you’re in safe hands.

Here’s an inside look at several regional med spas—what they offer, who they serve, and what their owners think about the industry’s rapid growth.

“It’s almost like Botox is the new Prozac. It just makes them feel better. And once you feel better on the inside, you project it on the outside.”

Joanne Weisbrod, Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic

Treatment to try Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic

RIGHT Ashley Mills, owner of Lyft Medical Aesthetics. BELOW The InMode Plus 90 vaginal rejuvenation wand.

Lyft Medical Aesthetics

Born and raised in Collingwood, registered practical nurse Ashley Mills first pursued psychiatric nursing, but then shifted her focus to aesthetics in 2019. She opened Lyft Medical Aesthetics a year later, carrying her passion for mental health into her aesthetic practice. Along with injectables, microneedling, radiofrequency and laser treatments, Lyft also offers cosmetic services like spray tan, lash and brow treatments, facials, massages and manicures.

What makes Lyft unique isn’t just its one-stopshop approach—it’s also its ethos, “everybody, every body,” which reflects Mills’ commitment to creating a safe, inclusive space where all clients feel acceptance. “There’s no judgement,” Mills says. “Everyone is welcome.”

Mills encourages clients to find the right fit when it comes to injector and clinic. “Know your injector and know that it’s OK to walk away from a place because you don’t feel comfortable. That’s OK. You’re not obligated to ever receive treatment if you have any sort of doubt.”

Treatment to try

The InMode Plus 90 vaginal rejuvenation wand is Mills’ favourite treatment. The device uses radiofrequency energy to increase blood flow as well as tighten and tone vaginal and vulvar tissue and muscles. While it can be used to target aesthetic concerns, it’s also effective in improving dryness, incontinence, irritation and sexual enjoyment. It does require some internal application, but the treatment itself is very comfortable. Optimal results are seen with a series of three treatments at $1,000 each, along with one annual maintenance session.

Thornbury Laser Clinic

Treatment to try

“Nobody enjoys watching their face sort of melting. It’s hard. I mean it’s better than the alternative, but it’s hard. Aging is hard.”

Tracy, Thornbury Laser Clinic client

3 week Youth Theatre camp program followed by public performances Introduces students to the concepts and tools required to bring 3D animation to life

Thornbury Leg Vein & Medical Rejuvenation Clinic

“People just want to look healthy. They want to look vital.”

Kathy de Langley, Thornbury Leg Vein & Medical Rejuvenation Clinic

Treatment to try

BeauTox Studio

Welcome to Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic, the premier destination for aesthetic excellence. Founded in 2009 by Joanne Weisbrod, we are the longest standing clinic in Collingwood and have built a reputation for providing high quality, personalized care. We offer a sanctuary where clients can achieve their aesthetic goals

At Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic we offer a range of services including Botox, Juvederm and various laser treatments such as IPLs and laser hair removal. We also provide premium skincare products like Vivier, a proudly Canadian brand. Additionally our innovative Emsella chair addresses urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction for both men and women. Our sister company, Lean Sculpt Lab, offers the cutting-edge Emsculpt Neo to help increase muscle mass and reduce fat.

What sets us apart is our commitment to natural, refreshed results. We believe in ensuring you look like yourself – only rejuvenated. Our philosophy focuses on the quality of your skin and overall well-being.

With a background in ICU nursing and experience as a clinical instructor at Georgian College, Joanne brings a wealth of expertise to the clinic. She has received extensive training through Allergan and has trained under renowned plastic surgeons. As a certified Allergan staff injector, she ensures that every client receives the highest standard of care.

One of the most important things to know about Georgian Bay Cosmetic Clinic is the strong, trustworthy bond we have with our clients. Many of them have been with us for years, reflecting the trust and confidence they have in our honest, professional approach.

Visit us today to experience the difference.

• Botox/Dysport

• Fillers

• Sculptra/Radiesse

• Natural Gel

• Microneedling & MesoTherapy

• Luxe Plasma (Plaxel)

• Lumecca (IPL) & Laser Hair Removal

• Facials & Chemical Peels

• HIFU

• Belkyra

“It felt very good to decide to invest in myself and take the time and the money to make myself feel better about myself. To pay attention to myself.”

Julie, Vibrance Medical Rejuvenation Centre client

Vibrance Medical Rejuvenation Centre

After 20 years in emergency medicine, Dr. Darryl D’Costa transitioned to aesthetics in 2015. He was Canada’s first to introduce NeoGen plasma skin resurfacing and among the first to offer Plexr soft surgery. Last year, he brought this technology to his Collingwood clinic, Vibrance Medical Rejuvenation, which specializes in “age management medicine.” Vibrance offers other regenerative treatments like exosomes, plateletrich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF),

LEFT Darryl D’Costa, owner of Vibrance Medical Rejuvenation Centre. BELOW The NeoGen treatment uses nitrogen plasma energy to trigger collagen and elastin production.

and potential in treating and preventing certain cancers, including skin.

D’Costa believes his first-to-market advantage and years of specialized training set him apart. “I do think it is practice- and practitionerdependent,” he says. “I know what I do here is different. Nobody else can get results like this.”

Intrigued by those results and tired of the permanent bags under her eyes, 56-year-old Julie opted for a full Plexr blepharoplasty (tightening of the upper and lower eyelids). As a cosmetic minimalist, Julie was drawn to the one-anddone nature of the treatment. Her results? “I just took a selfie the other day and went, ‘Wow, what a huge difference!’”

Treatment to try

as well as injectables and intimacy enhancement treatments for both men and women.

While plasma energy treatments have long been used in Europe, they are new to North America. “They work completely differently from anything else that the aesthetics industry has ever used, and they are safer, more effective, [with] less downtime, easier to tolerate, and completely natural,” says D’Costa. He’s also excited about these treatments’ wider medical applications

For improved skin texture, tone, firmness, and reduced wrinkles and pigmentation, try NeoGen. Treatment involves passing a handheld device over the skin’s surface, where it emits a quick burst of nitrogen plasma energy, triggering collagen and elastin production for up to 24 months. It is safe for all skin types, but expect anywhere from an hour to a week of redness with some peeling, depending on the intensity of your treatment. Cost: $300 to $2,600.

COLOUR THEORY

Colour blocks and strong silhouettes make bold seasonal statements.

MODEL

ELLAMAE SARAH HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY

LEAH DEN BOK

MAKEUP AND HAIR

TAYLOR SAVAGE STYLING

JUSTYNA LASOCKA LOCATION

WASAGA BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY

Poncho and blouse: Bishop Consignment

Trousers: Elaine Dickinson

Shoes: Okay Alright

Earrings: Dawe and Co.

Gown: Elaine Dickinson Earrings: Metra

I replied they could carry me out in a pine box before I’d ever move to a retirement home! The revolution in aging allows me to adapt my home with just a few simple changes. As the Baby Boomers reach retirement age, many are embracing the concept of “Aging In Place,” reflecting a strong desire for independence and familiarity, making the choice to remain in their cherished homes and communities.

Aging In Place offers numerous benefits:

• Emotional Well-being: Comfort and a sense of continuity, which is vital for mental health.

• Community Connections: Protecting sustained relationships with friends, neighbours and local organizations for a supportive social network.

• Cost Efficiency: Enabling allocation of resources for in-home care and avoiding the expenses associated with assisted living facilities. For successful Aging In Place, certain considerations must be addressed:

• Home Modifications: Adapting to changing mobility and health needs, potentially with grab bars, ramps or modifying bathrooms and kitchens for safety and accessibility.

• Healthcare Access: Coordinating in-home healthcare services to meet medical needs.

• Daily Living Support: Assistance with cleaning, cooking and transportation.

Led by Max Hahne, our expert team specializes in facilitating Aging In Place. With extensive education and certification in this field, we provide comprehensive services allowing you to remain in your home safely and comfortably for an additional 5, 10 or even 15 years.

Our services include:

• Personalized Assessments: Evaluating your home and recommending tailored modifications that enhance safety and accessibility.

• Project Management: Overseeing renovations, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance.

• Healthcare Coordination: Connecting you to trusted medical professionals and in-home care providers.

• Support Services: Arranging for assistance with daily activities, transportation and community engagement.

Aging In Place with confidence. Consult with us. With planning, support, practical and compassionate solutions, our dedicated, expert team can help you maintain and enjoy your independence in the comfort of your own home. Together, we’ll create a plan honouring your desire for independence for years to come, so that your home can continue to be a safe haven and heart of your life’s journey.

Marion Klinnert

Zip sweater and skirt: Cora Couture

Sunglasses and earrings: Dawe and Co.

Blouse and bra top: Okay Alright

Skirt: Bishop Consignment

Earrings: Metra Bracelet: Coriander

CJOSFM

Mostly music featuring artists like... Mostly music featuring artists like...

Local lifestyle too...

Local lifestyle too…

Weekdays with The Morning Zoom hosted by Ted & Diana 6-10am, and Cory Laycock 2-6pm in the afternoons, keep you informed about what’s up and what’s interesting in Owen Sound. Then call or email Cory anytime to hear your favourite ORIGINAL GREATEST HIT on the The All-Request Nooner 12-1pm.

Special features...

You’ll hear more features in a week than on other stations in a year. Weekdays include The Top 10 at Ten; The Next 11 at Eleven; and The Number 1s at One. Weeknights include The 60s at 6, 70s at 7, 80s at 8, and 90s at 9. At 10pm, catch Theatre of the Mind on the only station still playing classic drama and comedy from The Golden Age of Radio. Plus, the ultra romantic Stardust at 11pm followed by the very risqué

Midnight Blue

And on weekends...

Programs like The British Invasion, XX – a show that celebrates women in music, Saturday Night Bandstand, Vintage Favourites, The Immortals, Zoomer Crooners & Songbirds and Big Band Sunday Night are just some of the programs covering sports, current events, health, women, and even finding your bliss. And Saturday mornings at 9am Charlie Dobbin will answer your questions on the only phone-in garden show on radio.

Catch programs like The British Invasion, XX – a show that celebrates women in music, Saturday Night Bandstand, Vintage Favourites, The Immortals, Zoomer Crooners & Songbirds, and Big Band Sunday Night. And Saturday mornings at 9am, Charlie Dobbin will answer your questions on The Garden Show, the only phone-in garden show on radio.

ELINGS

CORY LAYCOCK

BRYAN

LEONARD JONI ROD BRUCE ELTON TINA

THE BEATLES

LEFT Culottes and top: Cora Couture

Bikini top, shoes and earrings: Okay Alright

Top and skirt: Elaine Dickinson Shoes: Bishop Consignment Sunglasses: Dawe and Co.

$599,900 BUILDING LOT AT BLUE MTN

$1,399,900

Full services at the lot line, 1/3 acre on a quiet road at Blue’s south end, walking distance to the Orchard ski lift! Great opportunity - very few bldg lots are still available near Blue.

Beautifully furnished, available Apr 1-Nov 30. July & August $4,500/mth. Stunning home with 6 bds, 4 baths, all main floor living, full fin bsmt, garage, use of “Shed” pool at Windfall at Blue Mtn.

Beautiful, spacious chalet home, newly reno’d kitchen, baths & more! All main level living with lots of guest space upstairs and down! Soaring ceilings, 5 bdrms, 4 baths, full basement, garage, views of Blue!

Curb appeal plus! Private country chalet feel on almost ½ acre but only 5 min’s to Collingwood or Blue. 5 bds, 4 baths, full fin bsmt, 2-car garage, adjacent 2/3 acre lot also avail to buyer!

of stagers, photographers & tradespeople and offer a network of connections from over 25 years of local community involvement to help you before, during and after your sale or purchase. I COLLABORATE WITH A TEAM

SAYING

You are clearly a very talented, dedicated real estate agent, it’s clear that you care not only about your job, but even more so, about your clients. Looking forward to your continued success.” God bless, Aly

The sodden pandemonium of the Beaver River Rat Race was once our region’s most distinctive spring tradition.